CONCORD, NC (January 30, 2026) – The Greatest Show on Dirt will be supported by the “world’s hardest working wipes” as the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series welcomes Tub O’ Towels to its premier list of partners.

Tub O’ Towels joins the Series for the first time in 2026 in a partnership that will see the brand prominently featured throughout the year, presenting its heavy-duty cleaning wipes to dirt fans across the country.

“World of Outlaws fans don’t shy away from dirt, and neither do we,” said Marcia Boyd, Brand Relations Manager with Tub O’ Towels. “This partnership is a natural fit.  We’re excited to grow together and support this incredible racing community.”

Tub O’ Towels Heavy Duty Cleaning Wipes are made for real work and real messes — the kind that doesn’t come off with soap and hope. They cut straight through grease, oil, dirt, brake dust, and grime without tearing up hands. After a long day in the shop, under the hood, on the jobsite, or in the garage, Tub O’ Towels gets the job done.  No fluff, no gimmicks — just tough wipes that work as hard as the people using them.

Tub O’ Towels is manufactured at their headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio and takes great pride in not only offering products made in America but also keeping jobs in the US. With more than 55,000 five-star online reviews the brand’s reputation demonstrates how a small, family-owned business can successfully compete with large corporations in the cleaning wipes category through quality, consistency, and innovation.

The Tub O’ Towels brand has already had a strong presence on the World of Outlaws tour and in the dirt community, having been a long-time supporter of World of Outlaws driver Conner Morrell, who enters his sophomore season with the Series in 2026.

To learn more about Tub O’ Towels, visit tubotowels.com.

Where will the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars be and how do you get tickets? Find out at the World of Outlaws site.

How can you watch the World of Outlaws? Live on DIRTVision. 

Tub O’ Towels Partners With World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series

CONCORD, NC (January 30, 2026) – The Greatest Show on Dirt will be supported by the “world’s hardest working wipes” as the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series welcomes Tub O’ Towels to its premier list of partners.

Tub O’ Towels joins the Series for the first time in 2026 in a partnership that will see the brand prominently featured throughout the year, presenting its heavy-duty cleaning wipes to dirt fans across the country.

“World of Outlaws fans don’t shy away from dirt, and neither do we,” said Marcia Boyd, Brand Relations Manager with Tub O’ Towels. “This partnership is a natural fit.  We’re excited to grow together and support this incredible racing community.”

Tub O’ Towels Heavy Duty Cleaning Wipes are made for real work and real messes — the kind that doesn’t come off with soap and hope. They cut straight through grease, oil, dirt, brake dust, and grime without tearing up hands. After a long day in the shop, under the hood, on the jobsite, or in the garage, Tub O’ Towels gets the job done.  No fluff, no gimmicks — just tough wipes that work as hard as the people using them.

Tub O’ Towels is manufactured at their headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio and takes great pride in not only offering products made in America but also keeping jobs in the US. With more than 55,000 five-star online reviews the brand’s reputation demonstrates how a small, family-owned business can successfully compete with large corporations in the cleaning wipes category through quality, consistency, and innovation.

The Tub O’ Towels brand has already had a strong presence on the World of Outlaws tour and in the dirt community, having been a long-time supporter of World of Outlaws driver Conner Morrell, who enters his sophomore season with the Series in 2026.

To learn more about Tub O’ Towels, visit tubotowels.com.

Where will the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars be and how do you get tickets? Find out at the World of Outlaws site.

How can you watch the World of Outlaws? Live on DIRTVision. 

ARTICLE: https://worldofoutlaws.com/sprintcars/tub-o-towels-partners-with-world-of-outlaws-sprint-car-series/

Event: Cook Out ClashDate/Time: Sunday, February 1, 2026, 8 p.m. ETLocation: Bowman Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem, North CarolinaLayout: 0.25-mile OvalTV/Radio: FOX, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Josh Berry and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Mustang Dark Horse are set to compete this weekend in the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, N.C., a venue deeply rooted in the history of Wood Brothers Racing. Team founder Glenn Wood was one of the most successful drivers in the track’s storied past, recording 29 wins at the quarter-mile oval, including four victories in NASCAR’s premier Cup Series division. From Wood’s driving days to the present, Bowman Gray has remained a favorite among drivers and fans alike. Last year’s Clash marked the return of NASCAR Cup Series competition to the famed “Madhouse,” and the non-points event delivered on its reputation. “The Clash at Bowman Gray last year was awesome,” said Berry, who raced his way into the main event with an aggressive drive to a second-place finish in the 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier. “The atmosphere was electric.” Like many of his peers, Berry first experienced Bowman Gray as a fan. “It had been a long time since I’d been there after previously going to watch a Modified race,” Berry said. “The fans were incredible, and that energy really showed. “One of the things I remember most was pushing the cars out to the track during pre-race as a team right next to the fans, only about 10 feet away, which was really cool. It’s just a great atmosphere overall, and those fans truly love racing. “That’s where we want to be, places where racing means something.” Saturday’s activities at Bowman Gray have been canceled due to expected inclement weather, and practice and qualifying will now take place on Sunday at 2 p.m. ET. The 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier will take the green flag at 6 p.m. ET ahead of the 200-lap Cook Out Clash, which is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET. Only green-flag laps will count in the feature, which will be televised live on FOX.Josh BerryAge: 35 (Oct. 22, 1990)Hometown: Hendersonville, TennesseeCrew Chief: Miles StanleyIG: @joshberry88X: @joshberryAbout Motorcraft® Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to under hood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com. *See your dealer for limited-warranty details. About Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com. *See your dealer for limited-warranty details.Taylor SmithNo. 21 Team and Josh Berrytaylor@woodbrothersracing.com

CONCORD, NC (January 30, 2026) – Sheldon Haudenschild has a new home for the 2026 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series campaign.

After eight years driving for Stenhouse Jr./Marshall Racing, the 32-year-old will climb aboard the KCP Racing No. 18 owned by Matt Barbara and Bret Nehring this year for his 10th season on tour.

Haudenschild currently owns 46 career victories with The Greatest Show on Dirt, fresh off adding four to his total in 2025 including the coveted National Open. The Wooster, OH native’s best finish in the points is fourth in 2020, and he’s been no worse than seventh during his tenure. NOS Energy Drink will continue to support Haudenschild as he begins a new chapter.

KCP Racing began 2025 with Giovanni Scelzi in the seat before the two parted ways in mid-July. Emerson Axsom and Cory Eliason completed the campaign for KCP as they finished seventh in team standings.

The Iowa-based organization is home to a dozen World of Outlaws wins. They’re also one of only three organizations to supply multiple Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year winners. Ian Madsen got the first in 2018 before Scelzi claimed the honor in 2023.

Haudenschild’s 2026 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car campaign with KCP Racing will begin in Florida at Volusia Speedway Park’s Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Feb. 4-7). For tickets, CLICK HERE.

Where can you see the World of Outlaws in 2026? Click to see the full schedule.

Where can you watch every World of Outlaws race? Live on DIRTVision.

Sheldon Haudenschild Joins KCP Racing for 2026 World of Outlaws Campaign

CONCORD, NC (January 30, 2026) – Sheldon Haudenschild has a new home for the 2026 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series campaign.

After eight years driving for Stenhouse Jr./Marshall Racing, the 32-year-old will climb aboard the KCP Racing No. 18 owned by Matt Barbara and Bret Nehring this year for his 10th season on tour.

Haudenschild currently owns 46 career victories with The Greatest Show on Dirt, fresh off adding four to his total in 2025 including the coveted National Open. The Wooster, OH native’s best finish in the points is fourth in 2020, and he’s been no worse than seventh during his tenure. NOS Energy Drink will continue to support Haudenschild as he begins a new chapter.

KCP Racing began 2025 with Giovanni Scelzi in the seat before the two parted ways in mid-July. Emerson Axsom and Cory Eliason completed the campaign for KCP as they finished seventh in team standings.

The Iowa-based organization is home to a dozen World of Outlaws wins. They’re also one of only three organizations to supply multiple Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year winners. Ian Madsen got the first in 2018 before Scelzi claimed the honor in 2023.

Haudenschild’s 2026 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car campaign with KCP Racing will begin in Florida at Volusia Speedway Park’s Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Feb. 4-7). For tickets, CLICK HERE.

Where can you see the World of Outlaws in 2026? Click to see the full schedule.

Where can you watch every World of Outlaws race? Live on DIRTVision.

ARTICLE: https://worldofoutlaws.com/sprintcars/sheldon-haudenschild-joins-kcp-racing-for-2026-world-of-outlaws-campaign/

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 29, 2026) — It was never a question if Tyler Courtney would get back to Victory Lane in a Sprint Car, but a question of when. As it turns out, he didn’t have to wait long.

In his first race back in the seat of the NOS Energy Drink, Clauson Marshall Racing No. 7BC since a hard crash that sidelined him last July, the Indianapolis native broke through to Victory Lane, taking the lead on Lap 22 and leading the final four circuits around Volusia Speedway Park to win the American Sprint Car Series season opener in the kickoff to the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals.

“I think you always have to think it’s possible to go do it, but I didn’t have the expectation to do it,” Courtney said. “I think, in the back of my mind, I really wanted to. It’s a good way to build your confidence back up. Sitting at home thinking about a lot of stuff, it really kicks you in the dirt. But I’ve got a great team behind me, and they’ve been behind me since day one in the hospital, all the way to tonight.

“Tonight, it proved to me, to my team, and everybody that’s in my support system, that I’m where I need to be and that’s behind the wheel of a racecar.”

The 31-year-old took the green flag from third on the starting grid and slipped back to fifth on the opening lap, where he stayed until he got by Whit Gastineau for fourth on Lap 7. After a red flag halted the action on Lap 10, Courtney immediately picked up his rhythm once again and began reeling in the top three drivers.

Up first was third-place Brady Bacon, who Courtney got by after trading slidejobs with on Lap 14. Next was Brian Brown, who was over 1.2 seconds ahead when Courtney took the third spot. Once he made the pass to Brown’s outside on Lap 18, Courtney began work on leader Austin McCarl, who held a gap of 1.6 seconds with under eight laps left.

“I think once I got to Brown and got clear of him, I was like, okay, if everything kinda goes my way here, we can win this race,” Courtney said. “But it’s still tough. Austin’s a great racecar driver. Any race nowadays is not easy to come by. Still had to work for it to get by him there.”

Despite the gap McCarl maintained, Courtney found the bottom lane in Turns 3–4 and erased the deficit in only four laps. He snuck by to McCarl’s inside out of Turn 4 to take the lead on Lap 22 and held on for his second career American Sprint Car Series Feature win.

“For me, through this whole thing, I’ve learned to appreciate everything,” Courtney said. “Not even just with racing, but everything in life. It can be taken from you in the blink of an eye. I thought my last race had ended in a helicopter ride out of Eldora, and so tonight, to show back up here after six months and park that thing in Victory Lane meant the world to me.”

Bacon charged to the runner-up spot in the final circuits to cross the stripe in second while McCarl shuffled back to third. Brown crossed in fourth and defending Series champion Sam Hafertepe Jr. rounded out the top five.

UP NEXT

The American Sprint Car Series is back in action at Volusia Speedway Park on Friday, Jan. 30, for the second of three nights of racing as part of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. Tickets are on sale online in advance; click here to purchase.

Where can you watch every American Sprint Car Series race? Live on DIRTVision.

FEATURE RESULTS

HELLO, SUNSHINE: Tyler Courtney Wins ASCS Opener at Volusia in Return to Racing

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 29, 2026) — It was never a question if Tyler Courtney would get back to Victory Lane in a Sprint Car, but a question of when. As it turns out, he didn’t have to wait long.

In his first race back in the seat of the NOS Energy Drink, Clauson Marshall Racing No. 7BC since a hard crash that sidelined him last July, the Indianapolis native broke through to Victory Lane, taking the lead on Lap 22 and leading the final four circuits around Volusia Speedway Park to win the American Sprint Car Series season opener in the kickoff to the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals.

“I think you always have to think it’s possible to go do it, but I didn’t have the expectation to do it,” Courtney said. “I think, in the back of my mind, I really wanted to. It’s a good way to build your confidence back up. Sitting at home thinking about a lot of stuff, it really kicks you in the dirt. But I’ve got a great team behind me, and they’ve been behind me since day one in the hospital, all the way to tonight.

“Tonight, it proved to me, to my team, and everybody that’s in my support system, that I’m where I need to be and that’s behind the wheel of a racecar.”

The 31-year-old took the green flag from third on the starting grid and slipped back to fifth on the opening lap, where he stayed until he got by Whit Gastineau for fourth on Lap 7. After a red flag halted the action on Lap 10, Courtney immediately picked up his rhythm once again and began reeling in the top three drivers.

Up first was third-place Brady Bacon, who Courtney got by after trading slidejobs with on Lap 14. Next was Brian Brown, who was over 1.2 seconds ahead when Courtney took the third spot. Once he made the pass to Brown’s outside on Lap 18, Courtney began work on leader Austin McCarl, who held a gap of 1.6 seconds with under eight laps left.

“I think once I got to Brown and got clear of him, I was like, okay, if everything kinda goes my way here, we can win this race,” Courtney said. “But it’s still tough. Austin’s a great racecar driver. Any race nowadays is not easy to come by. Still had to work for it to get by him there.”

Despite the gap McCarl maintained, Courtney found the bottom lane in Turns 3–4 and erased the deficit in only four laps. He snuck by to McCarl’s inside out of Turn 4 to take the lead on Lap 22 and held on for his second career American Sprint Car Series Feature win.

“For me, through this whole thing, I’ve learned to appreciate everything,” Courtney said. “Not even just with racing, but everything in life. It can be taken from you in the blink of an eye. I thought my last race had ended in a helicopter ride out of Eldora, and so tonight, to show back up here after six months and park that thing in Victory Lane meant the world to me.”

Bacon charged to the runner-up spot in the final circuits to cross the stripe in second while McCarl shuffled back to third. Brown crossed in fourth and defending Series champion Sam Hafertepe Jr. rounded out the top five.

UP NEXT

The American Sprint Car Series is back in action at Volusia Speedway Park on Friday, Jan. 30, for the second of three nights of racing as part of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. Tickets are on sale online in advance; click here to purchase.

Where can you watch every American Sprint Car Series race? Live on DIRTVision.

FEATURE RESULTS

Feature (25 Laps): 1. 7BC-Tyler Courtney[3]; 2. 20-Brady Bacon[4]; 3. 88W-Austin McCarl[2]; 4. 21-Brian Brown[6]; 5. 15H-Sam Hafertepe Jr[8]; 6. 3Z-Brock Zearfoss[16]; 7. 44-Chris Martin[7]; 8. 2-Whit Gastineau[1]; 9. 27-Emerson Axsom[11]; 10. 28F-Davie Franek[5]; 11. 2C-Cole Macedo[22]; 12. 01-Jadan Bowling[17]; 13. 6S-Tyler Clem[18]; 14. 45-Nick Sheridan[14]; 15. 23-Seth Bergman[15]; 16. 5C-DJ Christie[21]; 17. 95-Matt Covington[12]; 18. 5-Ryder McCutcheon[24]; 19. 17GP-Hank Davis[13]; 20. 4-Cameron Martin[9]; 21. 7-Jordan Thomas[19]; 22. 5K-Danny Sams III[10]; 23. (DNS) 32B-Dale Blaney; 24. (DNS) 88R-Ryder Laplante

SPARTANBURG, SC – CompetitionPlus is mourning the loss of staff member Chris Haverly, who was killed Tuesday in a single-car accident in Wytheville, Virginia.
 
“Chris and I came up the ranks under the mentorship of the late Dave Bishop, who welcomed us in as kids and taught us more than how to be journalists but good people,” said
CompetitionPlus.com Editor/Publisher Bobby Bennett. “Chris was a kind and gentle soul and always did what it took to help us bring the readers of CompetitionPlus.com the best photography. He was one of the most selfless people I ever met. My heart is broken.”

 Chris Haverly was a beloved fixture at drag races across the country. photo courtesy of Rhonda McCole

CompetitionPlus Mourns the Loss of Chris Haverly

SPARTANBURG, SC – CompetitionPlus is mourning the loss of staff member Chris Haverly, who was killed Tuesday in a single-car accident in Wytheville, Virginia.
 
“Chris and I came up the ranks under the mentorship of the late Dave Bishop, who welcomed us in as kids and taught us more than how to be journalists but good people,” said
CompetitionPlus.com Editor/Publisher Bobby Bennett. “Chris was a kind and gentle soul and always did what it took to help us bring the readers of CompetitionPlus.com the best photography. He was one of the most selfless people I ever met. My heart is broken.”

 Chris Haverly was a beloved fixture at drag races across the country. photo courtesy of Rhonda McCole

Haverly was deeply rooted in drag racing and widely respected as a photographer for his tireless work and welcoming presence in the pits. Beyond the race track, he dedicated much of his life to rescuing animals—transporting dogs and cats from high-risk shelters to rescues, fostering animals in his home, and helping families keep their pets during difficult times.
 
“Chris was a true hero,” CompetitionPlus.com photographer Rhonda McCole said. “He dedicated his life to rescuing animals and never turned any unwanted animal away. He was passionate about drag racing and a favorite in the pits, always ready with a joke or kind word.”
 
Details surrounding the accident were limited as of Wednesday. CompetitionPlus will respect the privacy of Haverly’s family during this difficult time.
 
The CompetitionPlus team extends its deepest condolences to Haverly’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work.

CONCORD, NC (January 29, 2026) – With winter weather continuing to blanket much of the United States, the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision will stay put in the “Sunshine State” for a few more weeks to open 2026.

The February schedule includes a visit to two of Florida’s most historic dirt tracks in Volusia Speedway Park and Hendry County Motorsports Park.

Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

Volusia Speedway Park | Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Feb. 12-14): As they have every year since the tour was relaunched in 2004, The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet will serve as the closing act at Volusia’s signature event.

The three-week festival of speed gets underway this weekend with the American Sprint Car Series and DIRTcar UMP Modifieds in action, while the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, the AMSOIL USAC Sprint Car National Championship and the Super DIRTcar Series will also pay a visit to the “World’s Fastest Half Mile” during the event. The chase for the Late Model Big Gator will once again include six-straight nights of racing on the final week, as the first three nights on Monday-Wednesday, Feb. 9-11, will be contested under the DIRTcar Late Model banner prior to three nights of World of Outlaws action on Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14.

The Series has already spent the first three nights of 2026 at Volusia for DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals, with Chris Madden, Hudson O’Neal and Tim McCreadie taking the victories. The on-track product received rave reviews from fans and drivers alike thanks to the new dirt put down last spring, and more of the same is expected come February.

For tickets and other event information, visit the DIRTcar Nationals site.

Hendry County Motorsports Park | Swamp Cabbage 100 (Feb. 20-21): Days after wrapping up an annual staple stretching back decades, the Series will head further south than ever before to usher in a new tradition.

The Swamp Cabbage 100 has been held as a Factory Stock race at Hendry County for several years, but the event has been taken to the next level in 2026 with the addition of the World of Outlaws as the headline division. Following a practice night on Thursday, Feb. 19, drivers will race for $12,000 on Friday, Feb. 20, and $20,000 on Saturday, Feb. 21, in the biggest weekend of racing in the history of “The Southernmost Dirt Track in the United States.”

In addition to the on-track activity, the World of Outlaws has partnered with the Hendry County Tourism Development Council to expand the festivities for locals and vacationers alike. The fun begins with a fishing tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 18, ahead of the Swamp Cabbage Festival in downtown LaBelle, FL all weekend. The Swamp Cabbage Festival Parade is set for Saturday at 11 a.m., featuring multiple Late Models rolling down the streets.

Additionally, Clewiston, FL’s own Taylor Beebe, a former Miss Hendry County in 2011 and Teacher of the Year at Westside Elementary School in 2025, has been named honorary starter of the event and will wave the green flag to start Friday’s Feature.

For tickets and other event information, click here.

THE MONTH AHEAD: Florida Fun Rolls On at DIRTcar Nationals, Swamp Cabbage 100

CONCORD, NC (January 29, 2026) – With winter weather continuing to blanket much of the United States, the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision will stay put in the “Sunshine State” for a few more weeks to open 2026.

The February schedule includes a visit to two of Florida’s most historic dirt tracks in Volusia Speedway Park and Hendry County Motorsports Park.

Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

Volusia Speedway Park | Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Feb. 12-14): As they have every year since the tour was relaunched in 2004, The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet will serve as the closing act at Volusia’s signature event.

The three-week festival of speed gets underway this weekend with the American Sprint Car Series and DIRTcar UMP Modifieds in action, while the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, the AMSOIL USAC Sprint Car National Championship and the Super DIRTcar Series will also pay a visit to the “World’s Fastest Half Mile” during the event. The chase for the Late Model Big Gator will once again include six-straight nights of racing on the final week, as the first three nights on Monday-Wednesday, Feb. 9-11, will be contested under the DIRTcar Late Model banner prior to three nights of World of Outlaws action on Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14.

The Series has already spent the first three nights of 2026 at Volusia for DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals, with Chris Madden, Hudson O’Neal and Tim McCreadie taking the victories. The on-track product received rave reviews from fans and drivers alike thanks to the new dirt put down last spring, and more of the same is expected come February.

For tickets and other event information, visit the DIRTcar Nationals site.

Hendry County Motorsports Park | Swamp Cabbage 100 (Feb. 20-21): Days after wrapping up an annual staple stretching back decades, the Series will head further south than ever before to usher in a new tradition.

The Swamp Cabbage 100 has been held as a Factory Stock race at Hendry County for several years, but the event has been taken to the next level in 2026 with the addition of the World of Outlaws as the headline division. Following a practice night on Thursday, Feb. 19, drivers will race for $12,000 on Friday, Feb. 20, and $20,000 on Saturday, Feb. 21, in the biggest weekend of racing in the history of “The Southernmost Dirt Track in the United States.”

In addition to the on-track activity, the World of Outlaws has partnered with the Hendry County Tourism Development Council to expand the festivities for locals and vacationers alike. The fun begins with a fishing tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 18, ahead of the Swamp Cabbage Festival in downtown LaBelle, FL all weekend. The Swamp Cabbage Festival Parade is set for Saturday at 11 a.m., featuring multiple Late Models rolling down the streets.

Additionally, Clewiston, FL’s own Taylor Beebe, a former Miss Hendry County in 2011 and Teacher of the Year at Westside Elementary School in 2025, has been named honorary starter of the event and will wave the green flag to start Friday’s Feature.

For tickets and other event information, click here.

Want to watch the World of Outlaws? Stream every lap live on DIRTVision.

CONCORD, NC (Jan. 28, 2026) — Austyn Gossel’s third full-time season with the American Sprint Car Series is on the horizon, and there’s one goal that stands above all others.

Victory Lane eluded the 25-year-old Colorado native in his rookie and sophomore seasons. But there’s plenty of reason to believe 2026 will be different as he tackles the full schedule aboard the BG Automotive, Shark Racing Engines-powered Triple X Chassis No. 16G.

“That’s very, very high on my list this year; I’m very hungry and motivated to get to the top step,” Gossel said. “I know I left quite a bit on the table last year. We’re planning on doing a bunch of races this year and keeping me fresh. I know we’re capable of winning somewhere down the line.”

The former Non-Wing and asphalt Sprint Car driver felt the grind of his rookie campaign in 2024, posting only six top-10 finishes in 27 Feature starts. Last year, Gossel grew leaps and bounds in his second year on the road, compiling two podiums, five top-fives and seven top-10 finishes in 26 starts.

The biggest sign of his progress came in June at Batesville Motor Speedway, where he led the first 13 laps of the Feature. Though an untimely crash dashed his chances for victory, the run stood as a benchmark of his true potential.

“Running with the best 360 guys, they’ve really been teaching me a lot,” Gossel said. “I’ve become pretty good friends with a lot of guys like Sam (Hafertepe Jr.), Matt (Covington), Zach (Blurton). They’ve all taught me a lot in how to race. My time will be coming.”

This Thursday–Saturday, Gossel opens his 2026 season at Volusia Speedway Park, where he debuted at the Florida 1/2-mile oval one year ago. Though he struggled to qualify for a Feature, the laps he turned there and at tracks similar and size throughout 2025 have given him a more positive outlook at taking on the historic facility this time around.

“Last year, I feel like we were just lacking some speed,” Gossel said. “That goes along with [Qualifying]. I still was struggling getting a good time in last year in the beginning, and I feel like we progressed over the year. Having Bobby (Craft, crew chief) now, I feel like we’re gonna be better off.”

The 35th American Sprint Car Series season gets underway Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31, at Volusia Speedway Park in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. Tickets are on sale now; click here to purchase.

Austyn Gossel ‘Hungry and Motivated’ for First Win in 2026 American Sprint Car Series Campaign

CONCORD, NC (Jan. 28, 2026) — Austyn Gossel’s third full-time season with the American Sprint Car Series is on the horizon, and there’s one goal that stands above all others.

Victory Lane eluded the 25-year-old Colorado native in his rookie and sophomore seasons. But there’s plenty of reason to believe 2026 will be different as he tackles the full schedule aboard the BG Automotive, Shark Racing Engines-powered Triple X Chassis No. 16G.

“That’s very, very high on my list this year; I’m very hungry and motivated to get to the top step,” Gossel said. “I know I left quite a bit on the table last year. We’re planning on doing a bunch of races this year and keeping me fresh. I know we’re capable of winning somewhere down the line.”

The former Non-Wing and asphalt Sprint Car driver felt the grind of his rookie campaign in 2024, posting only six top-10 finishes in 27 Feature starts. Last year, Gossel grew leaps and bounds in his second year on the road, compiling two podiums, five top-fives and seven top-10 finishes in 26 starts.

The biggest sign of his progress came in June at Batesville Motor Speedway, where he led the first 13 laps of the Feature. Though an untimely crash dashed his chances for victory, the run stood as a benchmark of his true potential.

“Running with the best 360 guys, they’ve really been teaching me a lot,” Gossel said. “I’ve become pretty good friends with a lot of guys like Sam (Hafertepe Jr.), Matt (Covington), Zach (Blurton). They’ve all taught me a lot in how to race. My time will be coming.”

This Thursday–Saturday, Gossel opens his 2026 season at Volusia Speedway Park, where he debuted at the Florida 1/2-mile oval one year ago. Though he struggled to qualify for a Feature, the laps he turned there and at tracks similar and size throughout 2025 have given him a more positive outlook at taking on the historic facility this time around.

“Last year, I feel like we were just lacking some speed,” Gossel said. “That goes along with [Qualifying]. I still was struggling getting a good time in last year in the beginning, and I feel like we progressed over the year. Having Bobby (Craft, crew chief) now, I feel like we’re gonna be better off.”

The 35th American Sprint Car Series season gets underway Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31, at Volusia Speedway Park in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. Tickets are on sale now; click here to purchase.

How can you watch the American Sprint Car Series? Live on DIRTVision.

BARBERVILLE, FL (January 29, 2026) – Ricky Thornton Jr is hunting for a spot in elite company at Volusia Speedway Park.

After winning the 2025 Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator championship in his Super Late Model, the Chandler, AZ native began his event activity with the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds in 2026 by taking a visit to Victory Lane Thursday night.

Commencing the 20-lap Feature from Pole Position, Thornton took command as his two Koehler Motorsports teammates, Evan Koehler and Jordan Koehler, followed in tow. He grew the lead to 1.7 seconds over the first seven laps of the Feature until the first caution waved for a slowing Kyle Hammer.

Thornton kept the dominance into the restart by using the cushion, while the Koehler brothers felt the “Bluegrass State” pressure of Tyler Nicely. The Owensboro, KY, racer started in 11th and worked his No. 25 machine into the top five for the restart, then used his momentum in the entrance of Turn 1 to slide under Jordan for third place. On Lap 10, Nicely powered his Modified to the inside of Evan in the same corner for second place.

At the helm of the pack, Thornton experimented with his Elite Chassis around multiple lanes before settling with the high side through Turns 1-2, then shifting the car to the bottom of Turns 3-4 to build a 2.7-second gap over Nicely.

When lapped traffic became an obstacle for Thornton to create forward progress, Nicely chopped the distance to a 1.1-second distance with five laps remaining. Thornton added lapped cars between him and Nicely, and he regained the lead by 1.8 seconds as the “Grand Canyon State” racer crossed the twin checkered flags.

With Thornton’s victory, he joins Nick Hoffman, Kyle Bronson, Ryan Gustin, and Kyle Strickler as the only drivers to win a UMP Modified and Late Model Golden Gator.

“Hats off to Nick [Hoffman] and everyone at Elite Chassis,” Thornton said. “I think I had six or seven laps before tonight, and it was really good. Really, our whole team was good. I feel like I had a really good car, I could go where I needed to, and really, I think the lapped cars made me learn a lot more about my racecar than I really thought. So hopefully I can be a little bit better come tomorrow.”

Up Next: The second night of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals will see the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds and American Sprint Car Series join forces for a Friday night battle on Jan. 30. Grandstand gates will open at 4 p.m ET, and Hot Laps will begin at 5:30 p.m.

DIRTCAR NATIONALS WEBSITE

How can you watch every lap of racing at Volusia Speedway Park? Live on DIRTVision.

Thornton Strikes First in Opening DIRTcar Nationals Feature with UMP Modifieds

BARBERVILLE, FL (January 29, 2026) – Ricky Thornton Jr is hunting for a spot in elite company at Volusia Speedway Park.

After winning the 2025 Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator championship in his Super Late Model, the Chandler, AZ native began his event activity with the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds in 2026 by taking a visit to Victory Lane Thursday night.

Commencing the 20-lap Feature from Pole Position, Thornton took command as his two Koehler Motorsports teammates, Evan Koehler and Jordan Koehler, followed in tow. He grew the lead to 1.7 seconds over the first seven laps of the Feature until the first caution waved for a slowing Kyle Hammer.

Thornton kept the dominance into the restart by using the cushion, while the Koehler brothers felt the “Bluegrass State” pressure of Tyler Nicely. The Owensboro, KY, racer started in 11th and worked his No. 25 machine into the top five for the restart, then used his momentum in the entrance of Turn 1 to slide under Jordan for third place. On Lap 10, Nicely powered his Modified to the inside of Evan in the same corner for second place.

At the helm of the pack, Thornton experimented with his Elite Chassis around multiple lanes before settling with the high side through Turns 1-2, then shifting the car to the bottom of Turns 3-4 to build a 2.7-second gap over Nicely.

When lapped traffic became an obstacle for Thornton to create forward progress, Nicely chopped the distance to a 1.1-second distance with five laps remaining. Thornton added lapped cars between him and Nicely, and he regained the lead by 1.8 seconds as the “Grand Canyon State” racer crossed the twin checkered flags.

With Thornton’s victory, he joins Nick Hoffman, Kyle Bronson, Ryan Gustin, and Kyle Strickler as the only drivers to win a UMP Modified and Late Model Golden Gator.

“Hats off to Nick [Hoffman] and everyone at Elite Chassis,” Thornton said. “I think I had six or seven laps before tonight, and it was really good. Really, our whole team was good. I feel like I had a really good car, I could go where I needed to, and really, I think the lapped cars made me learn a lot more about my racecar than I really thought. So hopefully I can be a little bit better come tomorrow.”

Up Next: The second night of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals will see the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds and American Sprint Car Series join forces for a Friday night battle on Jan. 30. Grandstand gates will open at 4 p.m ET, and Hot Laps will begin at 5:30 p.m.

DIRTCAR NATIONALS WEBSITE

How can you watch every lap of racing at Volusia Speedway Park? Live on DIRTVision.

Feature (20 Laps): 1. 20RT-Ricky Thornton Jr[2]; 2. 25-Tyler Nicely[11]; 3. 66-Cole Falloway[8]; 4. 36-Kenny Wallace[4]; 5. K9-Will Krup[3]; 6. 13-Charlie Mefford[10]; 7. 35A-Michael Altobelli[17]; 8. 35-David Stremme[7]; 9. 99H-Justin Haley[18]; 10. 77D-George Dixon[6]; 11. 97-Mitch Thomas[9]; 12. 09-Michael Ledford[14]; 13. 12L-Lucas Lee[20]; 14. 1TS-Tyler Spalding[16]; 15. 114K-Evan Koehler[1]; 16. 114-Jordan Koehler[5]; 17. 777-Trevor Neville[15]; 18. 17C-Coleman Evans[24]; 19. 77B-Ray Bollinger[23]; 20. 56-Chris Wilson[13]; 21. 3-Josh Sanford[19]; 22. 24CS-Curt Spalding[12]; 23. 45H-Kyle Hammer[21]; 24. 15X-Justin Stone[22]

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCEBowman Gray Stadium Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray StadiumFebruary 1, 2026

The NASCAR Cup Series will hit the track for the first time in 2026 this weekend as the sport’s top division makes its return to the Winston-Salem, North Carolina, short-track famously known as “The Madhouse” for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

MEDIA RESOURCES: Photo Gallery | Race AdvancesChevrolet Newsroom

The 48th rendition of the series’ annual preseason exhibition race marks the beginning of a 38-race schedule for the division that leads to the title-deciding race at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November.  With roots that run deep in NASCAR history, Bowman Gray Stadium became just the fourth different venue to host the exhibition-style race last season. The event saw near domination by Team Chevy’s Chase Elliott to lead the Bowtie brand to its series-leading 23rd Clash victory – a record that more than doubles the next leading manufacturer, Ford, with 10 wins. The win – Elliott’s first in the event – delivered Hendrick Motorsports its eighth Clash win to tie fellow Chevrolet organization, Richard Childress Racing, for second on the event’s all-time wins list. The 2020 champion joined an elite list of active past Clash winners, which also includes series veteran and Team Chevy teammate, Kyle Busch, who is a two-time winner in the event.

TEAM CHEVY SET FOR TITLE-DEFENDING SEASON Debuting an updated design of its Camaro ZL1 racecar in 2026, Chevrolet has its sights set on yet another championship title sweep in NASCAR’s premier series this season. The NASCAR Cup Series winningest manufacturer is coming off its 29th sweep of the series’ driver and manufacturer championship titles.  Already boasting a series-leading 15-race win season, Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson put a bow on Chevrolet’s strong 2025 campaign by earning the manufacturer its 34th driver championship in NASCAR’s premier series. With two NASCAR Cup Series titles under his belt, the 33-year-old Elk Grove, California, native will enter his 12th full-time season as just the third active multi-time champion in NASCAR’s highest ranks. Alongside Larson’s title also came Chevrolet’s 44th manufacturer championship in the division, which includes a streak of now five-straight title-earning seasons to keep the Bowtie brand undefeated in the Next Gen era.

ELLIOTT’S MASTERY AT “THE MADHOUSE” Entering a weekend filled with unknowns, NASCAR’s return to Bowman Gray Stadium proved to be no challenge for Chase Elliott and the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet team. Topping the leaderboard in both qualifying and his respective heat race, the 30-year-old Dawsonville, Georgia, native cruised his Chevrolet-powered machine to 171 laps led in the 200-lap main event en route to his first career Clash victory. The triumph – Chevrolet’s 23rd in the event’s history – made the former champion the 26th driver to win in the series’ annual exhibition race. A repeat performance in this weekend’s event would make Elliott just the eighth driver to become a two-time Clash winner – joining the likes of career Chevrolet driver and NASCAR Hall of Famer, Jeff Gordon (1994, 1997), and fellow Team Chevy driver, Kyle Busch (2012, 2021).

2026 TEAM CHEVY LINEUP Team Chevy’s already robust team and driver lineup got a little bigger this season with the addition of two notable organizations: Haas Factory Team and Rick Ware Racing.  Previously campaigning under the Chevrolet banner through the 2016 season, it’s a homecoming for Haas Factory Team as the organization’s NASCAR Cup Series program and two full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series entries will compete with Chevrolet-powered machines this season. With a technical alliance alongside Hendrick Motorsports, the organization’s No. 41 Chevrolet will see Cole Custer back behind the reigns, with the 28-year-old Ladera Ranch, California, native set to embark on his fifth full-time season in NASCAR’s top division. Custer’s rookie season in the Cup Series came in 2020, which saw the driver earn his first career victory in the division at Kentucky Speedway. Arguably his most notable season in the NASCAR national ranks came in 2023 when he returned to the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series full-time – ultimately ending the run with the championship title.  Also joining the Chevrolet camp is Rick Ware Racing, who will be fielding one full-time entry – the No. 51 Chevrolet with driver Cody Ware – in the NASCAR Cup Series. The organization joins the Bowtie brigade with a technical alliance through Richard Childress Racing. While their tenure in the division dates back to 2012, Rick Ware Racing has also seen success across a variety of racing disciplines with wins in NHRA, American Flat Track, World Supercross and the CARS Tour.

ZILISCH READY FOR ROOKIE CAMPGAINAt just 19 years old, Connor Zilisch has already established an impressive racing resume that includes LMP2 class wins at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 12 hours of Sebring, which was followed by a win in his first-ever NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at Watkins Glen International. In 2025, the Mooresville, North Carolina, native signed his first full-season contract in the NASCAR national ranks to pilot the No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series – ultimately leading Team Chevy’s rising star to a record-setting rookie campaign that was highlighted by 10 wins and a streak of 18 consecutive top-five finishes.  Fresh off yet another podium finish in the Rolex 24, Zilisch’s rapid rise up the ranks continues as he gears up for his rookie season on NASCAR’s biggest stage – driving the No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet for the 2026 Cup Series season. Paired with veteran crew chief, Randall Burnett, Zilisch will be a part of a stout three-car stable for the Chevrolet organization, alongside teammates Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. Zilisch has just three starts in NASCAR’s top division, with his most recent at Atlanta Motor Speedway (June 2025) ending with a career-best finish of 11th.

BOWTIE BULLETS:·        The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium race weekend.  ·        Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Clash Win:      Kyle Busch – two wins (2021, 2012)Chase Elliott – one win (2025) ·        In 47 NASCAR Cup Series Clash races, Chevrolet has earned a series-leading 23 victories – a record more than double the next leading manufacturer, Ford, with 10 wins.  ·        Chevrolet holds the series’ record for the most consecutive Clash wins by a single manufacturer with six straight – recorded from 2005-2010. ·        In 144 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 67 victories – a winning percentage of 46.5%.  ·        Chevrolet is coming off its 29th all-time sweep of the NASCAR Cup Series championship titles – capturing its 34th driver championship and 44th, and fifth consecutive, manufacturer championship in 2025.  ·        With its 44 NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer championships, 34 NASCAR Cup Series driver championships, and 881 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

TUNE-IN:Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray StadiumSaturday, January 31 Practice and Qualifying at 6:10 p.m. ET(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)Heat Races at 8:30 p.m. ET(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90) Sunday, February 1Last Chance Race at 6 p.m. ET(FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)Cook Out Clash Main Event at 8 p.m. ET(FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

QUOTABLE QUOTES:Daniel Suarez, No. 7 Spire Motorsports ChevroletA special partnership returns to the No. 7 Chevrolet for the Clash. What does it mean to you to represent the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and its mission?“Cal Ripken, Sr. had an amazing career and the legacy he left behind, especially the work the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, is doing to support younger generations through their STEM programs and education, is truly remarkable. I am personally a very big believer in the younger generation and to see how they impact the youth is unbelievable. I’m thrilled to be a part of this partnership.”  What makes the Clash such a valuable race for you as you begin the season with your team?“I’m really eager to get started this year. The first Clash is especially important because it’s our first race to focus on communication and how we talk through the car and whether it’s handling tight or loose. I’m looking forward to seeing where we stack up, how we can make progress throughout the weekend, and how this will set the tone for the 2026 season.” Kyle Busch, No. 8 Richard Childress Racing ChevroletWhat has the offseason been like getting to know your new Crew Chief Jim Pohlman? How has your relationship been developing over the last few months?“The offseason has been good getting to know Jim, our new Crew Chief coming on board for this year. It’s not something I’m not accustomed to. I’ve had a few Crew Chiefs over the years. Fortunately for me, I have won with every single one of them, so I am looking forward to a new opportunity of working with another crew chief and having the opportunity to go out there and get some race wins; get ourselves up there in the points and contend for a championship.” The relationship has been good. We’ve had some communication; we’ve had some sim sessions. Thankfully we actually had a really good opportunity to test in North Wilkesboro, so we were there getting some on track time and had a day to spend together at the racetrack kind of going through our dialogue, going through some changes and understanding what I would say and what the data would say, coming up with some good answers to make our racecar go faster. Jim’s been a very strong proponent of making sure we’ve got some good stuff this year.” Where do you think that Jim Pohlman can help you now that you’ve spent a little bit of time with him?“I think Jim’s biggest thing is keeping everyone accountable. Getting everyone in the race shop pulling the rope in the same direction. Pushing them in order to dig deeper and work harder. It’s not always just a 9-5 job. Racing in this business, especially at this level, you can be there 24 hours and still feel like you’re behind. It’s just the nature of what it’s all like and trying to get the most out of everybody.” What are your thoughts going into Bowman Gray?“Bowman Gray was really great last year. I feel like the fans really supported that race. NASCAR’s most popular driver won the race, so that was good for everyone, too. But we want to be a little bit more out front and be battling for the win. So hopefully we can be a force to be reckoned with and put our name in the hat to win this year.” What does it mean to start the year with Bowman Gray?“Bowman Gray is cool because it’s so short. It’s so small and the fans are right there on top of everything. It reminds me a little bit of the Summer Shoot Out and racing the legends cars. It’s a really tight bull ring and hard to get around there, hard to pass with these big heavy stock cars. But we made the most of it last year and I felt like the fans came out and supported it very, very well, so I hope they do so again this year.” Do you think after having a year of racing at this track, we’ll see some of that beating-and-banging Bowman Gray style this year?“Yeah, I think we saw plenty of it last year. The heat races, the last chance qualifier race. There was guys crawling over guys and spinning each other out and all that stuff, so it got pretty hectic and chaotic, and even in the feature race there was some of that going on towards the back of the field. So hopefully we’re far enough up front where we don’t have to deal with much of that and we can have a nice smooth race.” Do you expect more chaos at The Clash this season?“I felt like last year’s Clash was a little chaotic. There were definitely some moments there where some guys were running over each other, and guys got mad at each other for no reason. You are going to hit each other. It’s inevitable, it’s going to happen. But the nature of just getting a little bump-bump and then getting mad about it and trying to retaliate, that’s just the nature of the sport I guess we are in today. Hopefully the drivers have grown up over the off season… I doubt it, but we will see what happens.”   AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet“The Clash at Bowman Gray is just a cool event, and I had never been there in my life until last year. What they say is true—the Bowman Gray crowd is unique and very passionate, and it was fun to be able to see what it was all about. The energy was high, and you couple that with crazy racing, meaning you’re just going to beat and gouge on each other around that place. It’s full contact, so you just have to be mentally prepared for that going into it. I think it’s a fun kickoff event. Obviously, it’s not for points, but it is going out there for prestige. You try to win it and do the best that you can. It’s a great way to get back to racing, and it’s not far from home, which is a bonus.The team has been working hard during the off-season. We had a good test at North Wilkesboro, and even though we unloaded and were second quick on the first run, the season is all about figuring out expectations. For me, it’s about getting in the right mindset. I put a lot of pressure on myself about how I perform because I don’t want to let people down. I’ve got to enjoy the process. The team has never put pressure on me, so I just need to focus and have fun. I’m fortunate to still be part of all this and want to have a good year for the team and our partners. We’ll go and have some fun at Bowman Gray before the regular season starts at Daytona.”   Cole Custer, No. 41 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet“For us, Bowman Gray is definitely an exciting race and crucial for our team with how much work has gone in over the offseason, with switching to Chevrolet and having a new alliance with HMS. So this race will be huge; evaluating where we are at, seeing what we can fix from there and try and make ourselves better for the remainder of the season. This race really sets the tone for the whole year.”   Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet“Bowman Gray is pure grassroots racing, and that’s what makes it so cool. It’s physical, it’s intense, and the fans are right on top of you. We’ve had a really productive offseason, and having Chef Boyardee on the car is a great way to kick things off.”   Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet“I’m curious to see what’s going to happen this weekend. It’s definitely going to be cold; it was cold last year but not that cold. For me, it’s not that different. As a driver, we fight the heat all the time so it’s a nice change to drive when it’s cold. From the race team perspective, there are a lot of factors on the technical side that the team will have to fight with to try to keep things going through some really cold temperatures. I hope we can get it in; it’ll be interesting what shakes out, but whenever they let us back in the race car, I am excited to get going.”   Cody Ware, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Chevrolet“Having to make the transition from Ford to Chevrolet was a big undertaking for the whole team. The integration with RCR, their engineers and, really, all of their employees, has been impressive, and the test was another good example. It gave us renewed confidence that the direction we’re heading as a race team is the right one.Partnering with Chevrolet was the right choice. Everything from the engine package to the aerodynamics of the new body, there are just so many positives. It’s early, but we feel like it’s already paying dividends.”   Michael McDowell, No. 71 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat is your perspective heading into Bowman Gray this weekend?“It’s nice just get out to the track; go through the process, make sure everything is functioning and working well. The heat races and last chance qualifier are pretty tricky. It was exciting, but hard to pass last year. I’m ready to get to Bowman Gray and have a shot at it. Hopefully the weather works with us.”   Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Spire Motorsports ChevroletYou qualified for the first Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Can you replicate that this weekend?“I’m excited for it. I don’t get around Martinsville very well, but for some reason, I’m not too bad at getting around Bowman Gray. We were running sixth last year before getting spun. I think we were something like the second-fastest car on lap times. I thought we realistically had a shot to run with Chase (Elliott), so hopefully we can unload with the same speed on Saturday. It’d be interesting to win my first race in a non-points race, but it would be a great way to start the new year.” What is it like competing in the wild environment ‘The Madhouse’ promotes?“It’s a lot of fun. The place is packed. It reminds me of going to local short tracks as a kid, but with the nice, fancy Cup cars beating and banging around that little place. It’s cool because I just ran the Gateway Dirt Nationals in St. Louis and went to the Chili Bowl in Tulsa. Bowman Gray reminds me a lot of those places; you just don’t have a roof over your head.”   Connor Zilisch, No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet“The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium going to be interesting for sure. I’ve been to races there as fan but racing a Cup car is going to be crazy for sure. I’ve had some laps in the SIM to prepare for this weekend. It’s a tough little track and certainly a challenge to get off the corners without getting too loose. Bowman Gray is like no other track that we race at all year. Racing there is going to be intense, but I think it will be fun, too.”  Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletA new and special number this season, what does the number 97 mean to you?“It’s a number I’ve raced with all my life – I started racing with it at a young age. It’s really cool that Justin Marks and Trackhouse let me race a number that means so much to me and my family. It’s a really good change. I’m stoked to be able to carry the 97 this year!” What is the key for you to keep improving on the ovals?“Definitely time and to still keep an open mind, keep learning. I think I’m still making huge gains in certain areas. But certainly, keep learning something new every week, especially at the tracks I’m not strong at, keep trying to improve. I’m nowhere near my ceiling yet, I don’t think.”

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCEBowman Gray Stadium Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray StadiumFebruary 1, 2026

The NASCAR Cup Series will hit the track for the first time in 2026 this weekend as the sport’s top division makes its return to the Winston-Salem, North Carolina, short-track famously known as “The Madhouse” for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

MEDIA RESOURCES: Photo Gallery | Race AdvancesChevrolet Newsroom

The 48th rendition of the series’ annual preseason exhibition race marks the beginning of a 38-race schedule for the division that leads to the title-deciding race at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November.  With roots that run deep in NASCAR history, Bowman Gray Stadium became just the fourth different venue to host the exhibition-style race last season. The event saw near domination by Team Chevy’s Chase Elliott to lead the Bowtie brand to its series-leading 23rd Clash victory – a record that more than doubles the next leading manufacturer, Ford, with 10 wins. The win – Elliott’s first in the event – delivered Hendrick Motorsports its eighth Clash win to tie fellow Chevrolet organization, Richard Childress Racing, for second on the event’s all-time wins list. The 2020 champion joined an elite list of active past Clash winners, which also includes series veteran and Team Chevy teammate, Kyle Busch, who is a two-time winner in the event.

TEAM CHEVY SET FOR TITLE-DEFENDING SEASON Debuting an updated design of its Camaro ZL1 racecar in 2026, Chevrolet has its sights set on yet another championship title sweep in NASCAR’s premier series this season. The NASCAR Cup Series winningest manufacturer is coming off its 29th sweep of the series’ driver and manufacturer championship titles.  Already boasting a series-leading 15-race win season, Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson put a bow on Chevrolet’s strong 2025 campaign by earning the manufacturer its 34th driver championship in NASCAR’s premier series. With two NASCAR Cup Series titles under his belt, the 33-year-old Elk Grove, California, native will enter his 12th full-time season as just the third active multi-time champion in NASCAR’s highest ranks. Alongside Larson’s title also came Chevrolet’s 44th manufacturer championship in the division, which includes a streak of now five-straight title-earning seasons to keep the Bowtie brand undefeated in the Next Gen era.

ELLIOTT’S MASTERY AT “THE MADHOUSE” Entering a weekend filled with unknowns, NASCAR’s return to Bowman Gray Stadium proved to be no challenge for Chase Elliott and the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet team. Topping the leaderboard in both qualifying and his respective heat race, the 30-year-old Dawsonville, Georgia, native cruised his Chevrolet-powered machine to 171 laps led in the 200-lap main event en route to his first career Clash victory. The triumph – Chevrolet’s 23rd in the event’s history – made the former champion the 26th driver to win in the series’ annual exhibition race. A repeat performance in this weekend’s event would make Elliott just the eighth driver to become a two-time Clash winner – joining the likes of career Chevrolet driver and NASCAR Hall of Famer, Jeff Gordon (1994, 1997), and fellow Team Chevy driver, Kyle Busch (2012, 2021).

2026 TEAM CHEVY LINEUP Team Chevy’s already robust team and driver lineup got a little bigger this season with the addition of two notable organizations: Haas Factory Team and Rick Ware Racing.  Previously campaigning under the Chevrolet banner through the 2016 season, it’s a homecoming for Haas Factory Team as the organization’s NASCAR Cup Series program and two full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series entries will compete with Chevrolet-powered machines this season. With a technical alliance alongside Hendrick Motorsports, the organization’s No. 41 Chevrolet will see Cole Custer back behind the reigns, with the 28-year-old Ladera Ranch, California, native set to embark on his fifth full-time season in NASCAR’s top division. Custer’s rookie season in the Cup Series came in 2020, which saw the driver earn his first career victory in the division at Kentucky Speedway. Arguably his most notable season in the NASCAR national ranks came in 2023 when he returned to the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series full-time – ultimately ending the run with the championship title.  Also joining the Chevrolet camp is Rick Ware Racing, who will be fielding one full-time entry – the No. 51 Chevrolet with driver Cody Ware – in the NASCAR Cup Series. The organization joins the Bowtie brigade with a technical alliance through Richard Childress Racing. While their tenure in the division dates back to 2012, Rick Ware Racing has also seen success across a variety of racing disciplines with wins in NHRA, American Flat Track, World Supercross and the CARS Tour.

ZILISCH READY FOR ROOKIE CAMPGAINAt just 19 years old, Connor Zilisch has already established an impressive racing resume that includes LMP2 class wins at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 12 hours of Sebring, which was followed by a win in his first-ever NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at Watkins Glen International. In 2025, the Mooresville, North Carolina, native signed his first full-season contract in the NASCAR national ranks to pilot the No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series – ultimately leading Team Chevy’s rising star to a record-setting rookie campaign that was highlighted by 10 wins and a streak of 18 consecutive top-five finishes.  Fresh off yet another podium finish in the Rolex 24, Zilisch’s rapid rise up the ranks continues as he gears up for his rookie season on NASCAR’s biggest stage – driving the No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet for the 2026 Cup Series season. Paired with veteran crew chief, Randall Burnett, Zilisch will be a part of a stout three-car stable for the Chevrolet organization, alongside teammates Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. Zilisch has just three starts in NASCAR’s top division, with his most recent at Atlanta Motor Speedway (June 2025) ending with a career-best finish of 11th.

BOWTIE BULLETS:·        The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium race weekend.  ·        Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Clash Win:      Kyle Busch – two wins (2021, 2012)Chase Elliott – one win (2025) ·        In 47 NASCAR Cup Series Clash races, Chevrolet has earned a series-leading 23 victories – a record more than double the next leading manufacturer, Ford, with 10 wins.  ·        Chevrolet holds the series’ record for the most consecutive Clash wins by a single manufacturer with six straight – recorded from 2005-2010. ·        In 144 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 67 victories – a winning percentage of 46.5%.  ·        Chevrolet is coming off its 29th all-time sweep of the NASCAR Cup Series championship titles – capturing its 34th driver championship and 44th, and fifth consecutive, manufacturer championship in 2025.  ·        With its 44 NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer championships, 34 NASCAR Cup Series driver championships, and 881 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

TUNE-IN:Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray StadiumSaturday, January 31 Practice and Qualifying at 6:10 p.m. ET(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)Heat Races at 8:30 p.m. ET(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90) Sunday, February 1Last Chance Race at 6 p.m. ET(FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)Cook Out Clash Main Event at 8 p.m. ET(FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

QUOTABLE QUOTES:Daniel Suarez, No. 7 Spire Motorsports ChevroletA special partnership returns to the No. 7 Chevrolet for the Clash. What does it mean to you to represent the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and its mission?“Cal Ripken, Sr. had an amazing career and the legacy he left behind, especially the work the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, is doing to support younger generations through their STEM programs and education, is truly remarkable. I am personally a very big believer in the younger generation and to see how they impact the youth is unbelievable. I’m thrilled to be a part of this partnership.”  What makes the Clash such a valuable race for you as you begin the season with your team?“I’m really eager to get started this year. The first Clash is especially important because it’s our first race to focus on communication and how we talk through the car and whether it’s handling tight or loose. I’m looking forward to seeing where we stack up, how we can make progress throughout the weekend, and how this will set the tone for the 2026 season.” Kyle Busch, No. 8 Richard Childress Racing ChevroletWhat has the offseason been like getting to know your new Crew Chief Jim Pohlman? How has your relationship been developing over the last few months?“The offseason has been good getting to know Jim, our new Crew Chief coming on board for this year. It’s not something I’m not accustomed to. I’ve had a few Crew Chiefs over the years. Fortunately for me, I have won with every single one of them, so I am looking forward to a new opportunity of working with another crew chief and having the opportunity to go out there and get some race wins; get ourselves up there in the points and contend for a championship.” The relationship has been good. We’ve had some communication; we’ve had some sim sessions. Thankfully we actually had a really good opportunity to test in North Wilkesboro, so we were there getting some on track time and had a day to spend together at the racetrack kind of going through our dialogue, going through some changes and understanding what I would say and what the data would say, coming up with some good answers to make our racecar go faster. Jim’s been a very strong proponent of making sure we’ve got some good stuff this year.” Where do you think that Jim Pohlman can help you now that you’ve spent a little bit of time with him?“I think Jim’s biggest thing is keeping everyone accountable. Getting everyone in the race shop pulling the rope in the same direction. Pushing them in order to dig deeper and work harder. It’s not always just a 9-5 job. Racing in this business, especially at this level, you can be there 24 hours and still feel like you’re behind. It’s just the nature of what it’s all like and trying to get the most out of everybody.” What are your thoughts going into Bowman Gray?“Bowman Gray was really great last year. I feel like the fans really supported that race. NASCAR’s most popular driver won the race, so that was good for everyone, too. But we want to be a little bit more out front and be battling for the win. So hopefully we can be a force to be reckoned with and put our name in the hat to win this year.” What does it mean to start the year with Bowman Gray?“Bowman Gray is cool because it’s so short. It’s so small and the fans are right there on top of everything. It reminds me a little bit of the Summer Shoot Out and racing the legends cars. It’s a really tight bull ring and hard to get around there, hard to pass with these big heavy stock cars. But we made the most of it last year and I felt like the fans came out and supported it very, very well, so I hope they do so again this year.” Do you think after having a year of racing at this track, we’ll see some of that beating-and-banging Bowman Gray style this year?“Yeah, I think we saw plenty of it last year. The heat races, the last chance qualifier race. There was guys crawling over guys and spinning each other out and all that stuff, so it got pretty hectic and chaotic, and even in the feature race there was some of that going on towards the back of the field. So hopefully we’re far enough up front where we don’t have to deal with much of that and we can have a nice smooth race.” Do you expect more chaos at The Clash this season?“I felt like last year’s Clash was a little chaotic. There were definitely some moments there where some guys were running over each other, and guys got mad at each other for no reason. You are going to hit each other. It’s inevitable, it’s going to happen. But the nature of just getting a little bump-bump and then getting mad about it and trying to retaliate, that’s just the nature of the sport I guess we are in today. Hopefully the drivers have grown up over the off season… I doubt it, but we will see what happens.”   AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet“The Clash at Bowman Gray is just a cool event, and I had never been there in my life until last year. What they say is true—the Bowman Gray crowd is unique and very passionate, and it was fun to be able to see what it was all about. The energy was high, and you couple that with crazy racing, meaning you’re just going to beat and gouge on each other around that place. It’s full contact, so you just have to be mentally prepared for that going into it. I think it’s a fun kickoff event. Obviously, it’s not for points, but it is going out there for prestige. You try to win it and do the best that you can. It’s a great way to get back to racing, and it’s not far from home, which is a bonus.The team has been working hard during the off-season. We had a good test at North Wilkesboro, and even though we unloaded and were second quick on the first run, the season is all about figuring out expectations. For me, it’s about getting in the right mindset. I put a lot of pressure on myself about how I perform because I don’t want to let people down. I’ve got to enjoy the process. The team has never put pressure on me, so I just need to focus and have fun. I’m fortunate to still be part of all this and want to have a good year for the team and our partners. We’ll go and have some fun at Bowman Gray before the regular season starts at Daytona.”   Cole Custer, No. 41 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet“For us, Bowman Gray is definitely an exciting race and crucial for our team with how much work has gone in over the offseason, with switching to Chevrolet and having a new alliance with HMS. So this race will be huge; evaluating where we are at, seeing what we can fix from there and try and make ourselves better for the remainder of the season. This race really sets the tone for the whole year.”   Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet“Bowman Gray is pure grassroots racing, and that’s what makes it so cool. It’s physical, it’s intense, and the fans are right on top of you. We’ve had a really productive offseason, and having Chef Boyardee on the car is a great way to kick things off.”   Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet“I’m curious to see what’s going to happen this weekend. It’s definitely going to be cold; it was cold last year but not that cold. For me, it’s not that different. As a driver, we fight the heat all the time so it’s a nice change to drive when it’s cold. From the race team perspective, there are a lot of factors on the technical side that the team will have to fight with to try to keep things going through some really cold temperatures. I hope we can get it in; it’ll be interesting what shakes out, but whenever they let us back in the race car, I am excited to get going.”   Cody Ware, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Chevrolet“Having to make the transition from Ford to Chevrolet was a big undertaking for the whole team. The integration with RCR, their engineers and, really, all of their employees, has been impressive, and the test was another good example. It gave us renewed confidence that the direction we’re heading as a race team is the right one.Partnering with Chevrolet was the right choice. Everything from the engine package to the aerodynamics of the new body, there are just so many positives. It’s early, but we feel like it’s already paying dividends.”   Michael McDowell, No. 71 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat is your perspective heading into Bowman Gray this weekend?“It’s nice just get out to the track; go through the process, make sure everything is functioning and working well. The heat races and last chance qualifier are pretty tricky. It was exciting, but hard to pass last year. I’m ready to get to Bowman Gray and have a shot at it. Hopefully the weather works with us.”   Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Spire Motorsports ChevroletYou qualified for the first Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Can you replicate that this weekend?“I’m excited for it. I don’t get around Martinsville very well, but for some reason, I’m not too bad at getting around Bowman Gray. We were running sixth last year before getting spun. I think we were something like the second-fastest car on lap times. I thought we realistically had a shot to run with Chase (Elliott), so hopefully we can unload with the same speed on Saturday. It’d be interesting to win my first race in a non-points race, but it would be a great way to start the new year.” What is it like competing in the wild environment ‘The Madhouse’ promotes?“It’s a lot of fun. The place is packed. It reminds me of going to local short tracks as a kid, but with the nice, fancy Cup cars beating and banging around that little place. It’s cool because I just ran the Gateway Dirt Nationals in St. Louis and went to the Chili Bowl in Tulsa. Bowman Gray reminds me a lot of those places; you just don’t have a roof over your head.”   Connor Zilisch, No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet“The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium going to be interesting for sure. I’ve been to races there as fan but racing a Cup car is going to be crazy for sure. I’ve had some laps in the SIM to prepare for this weekend. It’s a tough little track and certainly a challenge to get off the corners without getting too loose. Bowman Gray is like no other track that we race at all year. Racing there is going to be intense, but I think it will be fun, too.”  Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletA new and special number this season, what does the number 97 mean to you?“It’s a number I’ve raced with all my life – I started racing with it at a young age. It’s really cool that Justin Marks and Trackhouse let me race a number that means so much to me and my family. It’s a really good change. I’m stoked to be able to carry the 97 this year!” What is the key for you to keep improving on the ovals?“Definitely time and to still keep an open mind, keep learning. I think I’m still making huge gains in certain areas. But certainly, keep learning something new every week, especially at the tracks I’m not strong at, keep trying to improve. I’m nowhere near my ceiling yet, I don’t think.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics Manufacturer Championships:Total (1949-2024): 44First title for Chevrolet: 1958Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)Most recent: 2025 Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Driver Championships:Total (1949-2024): 34First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)Most recent: Kyle Larson (2025)Driver and Manufacturer Championship Sweeps: 29 Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025 Event Victories:Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)                CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:Total Chevrolet race wins: 881 (1949 to date)Poles won to date: 766Laps led to date: 256,734Top-fives to date: 4,436Top-10s to date: 9,151                                                                                                          Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:                    General Motors: 1,215           Chevrolet: 881           Pontiac: 154           Oldsmobile: 115           Buick: 65            Ford: 847                                                                                          Ford: 747           Mercury: 96           Lincoln: 4            Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467           Dodge: 217           Plymouth: 191           Chrysler: 59            Toyota: 203

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 27, 2026) — The curtain rises on the 35th season of American Sprint Car Series racing this weekend at one of the fastest and most historic racetracks drivers will contest all year – Volusia Speedway Park.

The 1/2-mile oval hosts the kickoff to Florida’s largest dirt track racing events with three consecutive nights of racing in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals, Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31. Thursday and Friday’s main events will go 25 laps and award $3,000 to the winner, while the finale on Saturday will go 30 laps with a $12,000 winner’s share.

In addition to the main event purse, the top three finishers in the week-long Big Gator Championship points will receive a cash bonus — $2,000 to the champion, $1,000 to the runner-up and $500 to third place. The iconic DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator trophy will also be awarded to the points champion.

Points toward the overall American Sprint Car Series championship standings will be awarded to each driver based on rank in the final DIRTcar Nationals points standings. All three races will count as a single event toward the standings, meaning the Big Gator champion will earn 150 points, runner-up will earn 142 points, third place receives 135 points and so on, according to the ASCS Feature points scale.

Tickets for each day of the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals are on sale online in advance (click here to purchase) and will also be sold at the track on race day.

Where can you watch every American Sprint Car Series event in 2026? Live on DIRTVision.

Here are the drivers to watch and storylines to follow this weekend:

DRIVE FOR SEVEN — After locking up his sixth American Sprint Car Series championship last November, Sam Hafertepe Jr. begins his quest for a seventh national points title this weekend.

Hafertepe, 40, of Sunnyvale, TX, won 11 Features on the national circuit last year and comes into Volusia as the odds-on favorite for the points championship. During the season opener last January, he was one of only three drivers to start all three main events and produced the best average finish among them at 7.0, which included a podium finish on opening night.

Hafertepe also stands as the most experienced driver on the full-time roster with over 50 Feature starts at the Florida oval — his first coming almost 20 years ago in February 2006.

CHAMPIONSHIP CHASERS — Several drivers that followed the American Sprint Car Series circuit in 2025 will return to the full-time roster in 2026, starting with the first races this weekend. Currently, the list includes Hafertepe, Matt Covington, Kyler Johnson, Austyn Gossel, Ryder Laplante, Terry Easum and Brogan Carder.

Covington, of Glenpool, OK, was the second of three full-timers in 2025 to start all three main events at Volusia, with a best finish of ninth on opening night. He finished runner-up to Hafertepe in the 2025 points standings and will likely be a contender for his first national championship in 2026.

Laplante started Saturday’s main event at Volusia one year ago and finished 18th. Johnson, Gossel, Easum and Carder are all looking for their first main event start at the track.

Additionally, 2024 Series champion Seth Bergman is set to make his Volusia debut this weekend and has indicated his plans to follow the national schedule full-time in 2026. The Snohomish, WA-native made 15 appearances with the Series last year, notching one win at Electric City Speedway in Montana.

SUNSHINE RETURNS — After six months out of the seat, Tyler Courtney returns to Sprint Car racing this weekend aboard the Clauson Marshall Racing No. 7BC.

Courtney, 31, of Indianapolis, IN, was hospitalized after a violent crash at Eldora Speedway last July and underwent spinal fusion surgery to repair his broken T7 vertebrae. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, the national 410 Sprint Car regular is set to return to action at Volusia, making his first start with the American Sprint Car Series since his triumph at Knoxville Raceway’s 360 Knoxville Nationals in 2024.

Read Also — SUN RISING: Tyler Courtney Returns to Sprint Car Racing with ASCS at Volusia

The two-time United States Auto Club champion has had success at Volusia in the past, notching 13 top-10s, three top-fives and one memorable Feature win with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in a last-corner pass on Rico Abreu during DIRTcar Nationals in 2024.

OUTLAW INBOUND — The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series has a lone representative installing a 360c.i. engine to compete with the American Sprint Car Series this weekend and get some early track time before World of Outlaws action begins next week.

Cole Macedo, of Lemoore, CA, made his Volusia debut with the 360s one year ago and produced finishes of seventh, second, and fourth in the finale Saturday night. This weekend, the 25-year-old is back behind the wheel of the TwoC Racing No. 2C, owned by 2000 American Sprint Car Series champion Wayne Johnson, before starting his second full season on the national 410 Sprint Car circuit.

410 INVADERS — Multiple other 410 Sprint Car regulars are projected to join the 360 field this weekend, including standouts Brian Brown and Brock Zearfoss.

Brown, of Higginsville, MO, is a familiar face to 360 Sprint Car fans as a 21-time American Sprint Car Series Feature winner. One year ago, the 47-year-old came within one spot of his first Series victory since 2023 and his first career win at Volusia with a runner-up finish to Justin Peck. The following week, he posted finishes of sixth, 13th, 11th, and 15th with the World of Outlaws.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: ASCS Regulars Meet 410 Invaders in 35th Season Opener at Volusia

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 27, 2026) — The curtain rises on the 35th season of American Sprint Car Series racing this weekend at one of the fastest and most historic racetracks drivers will contest all year – Volusia Speedway Park.

The 1/2-mile oval hosts the kickoff to Florida’s largest dirt track racing events with three consecutive nights of racing in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals, Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31. Thursday and Friday’s main events will go 25 laps and award $3,000 to the winner, while the finale on Saturday will go 30 laps with a $12,000 winner’s share.

In addition to the main event purse, the top three finishers in the week-long Big Gator Championship points will receive a cash bonus — $2,000 to the champion, $1,000 to the runner-up and $500 to third place. The iconic DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator trophy will also be awarded to the points champion.

Points toward the overall American Sprint Car Series championship standings will be awarded to each driver based on rank in the final DIRTcar Nationals points standings. All three races will count as a single event toward the standings, meaning the Big Gator champion will earn 150 points, runner-up will earn 142 points, third place receives 135 points and so on, according to the ASCS Feature points scale.

Tickets for each day of the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals are on sale online in advance (click here to purchase) and will also be sold at the track on race day.

Where can you watch every American Sprint Car Series event in 2026? Live on DIRTVision.

Here are the drivers to watch and storylines to follow this weekend:

DRIVE FOR SEVEN — After locking up his sixth American Sprint Car Series championship last November, Sam Hafertepe Jr. begins his quest for a seventh national points title this weekend.

Hafertepe, 40, of Sunnyvale, TX, won 11 Features on the national circuit last year and comes into Volusia as the odds-on favorite for the points championship. During the season opener last January, he was one of only three drivers to start all three main events and produced the best average finish among them at 7.0, which included a podium finish on opening night.

Hafertepe also stands as the most experienced driver on the full-time roster with over 50 Feature starts at the Florida oval — his first coming almost 20 years ago in February 2006.

CHAMPIONSHIP CHASERS — Several drivers that followed the American Sprint Car Series circuit in 2025 will return to the full-time roster in 2026, starting with the first races this weekend. Currently, the list includes Hafertepe, Matt Covington, Kyler Johnson, Austyn Gossel, Ryder Laplante, Terry Easum and Brogan Carder.

Covington, of Glenpool, OK, was the second of three full-timers in 2025 to start all three main events at Volusia, with a best finish of ninth on opening night. He finished runner-up to Hafertepe in the 2025 points standings and will likely be a contender for his first national championship in 2026.

Laplante started Saturday’s main event at Volusia one year ago and finished 18th. Johnson, Gossel, Easum and Carder are all looking for their first main event start at the track.

Additionally, 2024 Series champion Seth Bergman is set to make his Volusia debut this weekend and has indicated his plans to follow the national schedule full-time in 2026. The Snohomish, WA-native made 15 appearances with the Series last year, notching one win at Electric City Speedway in Montana.

SUNSHINE RETURNS — After six months out of the seat, Tyler Courtney returns to Sprint Car racing this weekend aboard the Clauson Marshall Racing No. 7BC.

Courtney, 31, of Indianapolis, IN, was hospitalized after a violent crash at Eldora Speedway last July and underwent spinal fusion surgery to repair his broken T7 vertebrae. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, the national 410 Sprint Car regular is set to return to action at Volusia, making his first start with the American Sprint Car Series since his triumph at Knoxville Raceway’s 360 Knoxville Nationals in 2024.

Read Also — SUN RISING: Tyler Courtney Returns to Sprint Car Racing with ASCS at Volusia

The two-time United States Auto Club champion has had success at Volusia in the past, notching 13 top-10s, three top-fives and one memorable Feature win with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in a last-corner pass on Rico Abreu during DIRTcar Nationals in 2024.

OUTLAW INBOUND — The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series has a lone representative installing a 360c.i. engine to compete with the American Sprint Car Series this weekend and get some early track time before World of Outlaws action begins next week.

Cole Macedo, of Lemoore, CA, made his Volusia debut with the 360s one year ago and produced finishes of seventh, second, and fourth in the finale Saturday night. This weekend, the 25-year-old is back behind the wheel of the TwoC Racing No. 2C, owned by 2000 American Sprint Car Series champion Wayne Johnson, before starting his second full season on the national 410 Sprint Car circuit.

410 INVADERS — Multiple other 410 Sprint Car regulars are projected to join the 360 field this weekend, including standouts Brian Brown and Brock Zearfoss.

Brown, of Higginsville, MO, is a familiar face to 360 Sprint Car fans as a 21-time American Sprint Car Series Feature winner. One year ago, the 47-year-old came within one spot of his first Series victory since 2023 and his first career win at Volusia with a runner-up finish to Justin Peck. The following week, he posted finishes of sixth, 13th, 11th, and 15th with the World of Outlaws.

Zearfoss, of Jonestown, PA, will make his first American Sprint Car Series appearances since 2020 in his self-owned No. 3Z. The 35-year-old has made over 30 starts in 410 competition at Volusia with a best finish of seventh with the All-Star Circuit of Champions in 2023.

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 27, 2026) — The curtain rises on the 35th season of American Sprint Car Series racing this weekend at one of the fastest and most historic racetracks drivers will contest all year – Volusia Speedway Park.

The 1/2-mile oval hosts the kickoff to Florida’s largest dirt track racing events with three consecutive nights of racing in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals, Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31. Thursday and Friday’s main events will go 25 laps and award $3,000 to the winner, while the finale on Saturday will go 30 laps with a $12,000 winner’s share.

In addition to the main event purse, the top three finishers in the week-long Big Gator Championship points will receive a cash bonus — $2,000 to the champion, $1,000 to the runner-up and $500 to third place. The iconic DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator trophy will also be awarded to the points champion.

Points toward the overall American Sprint Car Series championship standings will be awarded to each driver based on rank in the final DIRTcar Nationals points standings. All three races will count as a single event toward the standings, meaning the Big Gator champion will earn 150 points, runner-up will earn 142 points, third place receives 135 points and so on, according to the ASCS Feature points scale.

Tickets for each day of the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals are on sale online in advance (click here to purchase) and will also be sold at the track on race day.

Where can you watch every American Sprint Car Series event in 2026? Live on DIRTVision.

Here are the drivers to watch and storylines to follow this weekend:

DRIVE FOR SEVEN — After locking up his sixth American Sprint Car Series championship last November, Sam Hafertepe Jr. begins his quest for a seventh national points title this weekend.

Hafertepe, 40, of Sunnyvale, TX, won 11 Features on the national circuit last year and comes into Volusia as the odds-on favorite for the points championship. During the season opener last January, he was one of only three drivers to start all three main events and produced the best average finish among them at 7.0, which included a podium finish on opening night.

Hafertepe also stands as the most experienced driver on the full-time roster with over 50 Feature starts at the Florida oval — his first coming almost 20 years ago in February 2006.

CHAMPIONSHIP CHASERS — Several drivers that followed the American Sprint Car Series circuit in 2025 will return to the full-time roster in 2026, starting with the first races this weekend. Currently, the list includes Hafertepe, Matt Covington, Kyler Johnson, Austyn Gossel, Ryder Laplante, Terry Easum and Brogan Carder.

Covington, of Glenpool, OK, was the second of three full-timers in 2025 to start all three main events at Volusia, with a best finish of ninth on opening night. He finished runner-up to Hafertepe in the 2025 points standings and will likely be a contender for his first national championship in 2026.

Laplante started Saturday’s main event at Volusia one year ago and finished 18th. Johnson, Gossel, Easum and Carder are all looking for their first main event start at the track.

Additionally, 2024 Series champion Seth Bergman is set to make his Volusia debut this weekend and has indicated his plans to follow the national schedule full-time in 2026. The Snohomish, WA-native made 15 appearances with the Series last year, notching one win at Electric City Speedway in Montana.

SUNSHINE RETURNS — After six months out of the seat, Tyler Courtney returns to Sprint Car racing this weekend aboard the Clauson Marshall Racing No. 7BC.

Courtney, 31, of Indianapolis, IN, was hospitalized after a violent crash at Eldora Speedway last July and underwent spinal fusion surgery to repair his broken T7 vertebrae. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, the national 410 Sprint Car regular is set to return to action at Volusia, making his first start with the American Sprint Car Series since his triumph at Knoxville Raceway’s 360 Knoxville Nationals in 2024.

Read Also — SUN RISING: Tyler Courtney Returns to Sprint Car Racing with ASCS at Volusia

The two-time United States Auto Club champion has had success at Volusia in the past, notching 13 top-10s, three top-fives and one memorable Feature win with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in a last-corner pass on Rico Abreu during DIRTcar Nationals in 2024.

OUTLAW INBOUND — The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series has a lone representative installing a 360c.i. engine to compete with the American Sprint Car Series this weekend and get some early track time before World of Outlaws action begins next week.

Cole Macedo, of Lemoore, CA, made his Volusia debut with the 360s one year ago and produced finishes of seventh, second, and fourth in the finale Saturday night. This weekend, the 25-year-old is back behind the wheel of the TwoC Racing No. 2C, owned by 2000 American Sprint Car Series champion Wayne Johnson, before starting his second full season on the national 410 Sprint Car circuit.

410 INVADERS — Multiple other 410 Sprint Car regulars are projected to join the 360 field this weekend, including standouts Brian Brown and Brock Zearfoss.

Brown, of Higginsville, MO, is a familiar face to 360 Sprint Car fans as a 21-time American Sprint Car Series Feature winner. One year ago, the 47-year-old came within one spot of his first Series victory since 2023 and his first career win at Volusia with a runner-up finish to Justin Peck. The following week, he posted finishes of sixth, 13th, 11th, and 15th with the World of Outlaws.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: ASCS Regulars Meet 410 Invaders in 35th Season Opener at Volusia

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 27, 2026) — The curtain rises on the 35th season of American Sprint Car Series racing this weekend at one of the fastest and most historic racetracks drivers will contest all year – Volusia Speedway Park.

The 1/2-mile oval hosts the kickoff to Florida’s largest dirt track racing events with three consecutive nights of racing in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals, Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31. Thursday and Friday’s main events will go 25 laps and award $3,000 to the winner, while the finale on Saturday will go 30 laps with a $12,000 winner’s share.

In addition to the main event purse, the top three finishers in the week-long Big Gator Championship points will receive a cash bonus — $2,000 to the champion, $1,000 to the runner-up and $500 to third place. The iconic DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator trophy will also be awarded to the points champion.

Points toward the overall American Sprint Car Series championship standings will be awarded to each driver based on rank in the final DIRTcar Nationals points standings. All three races will count as a single event toward the standings, meaning the Big Gator champion will earn 150 points, runner-up will earn 142 points, third place receives 135 points and so on, according to the ASCS Feature points scale.

Tickets for each day of the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals are on sale online in advance (click here to purchase) and will also be sold at the track on race day.

Where can you watch every American Sprint Car Series event in 2026? Live on DIRTVision.

Here are the drivers to watch and storylines to follow this weekend:

DRIVE FOR SEVEN — After locking up his sixth American Sprint Car Series championship last November, Sam Hafertepe Jr. begins his quest for a seventh national points title this weekend.

Hafertepe, 40, of Sunnyvale, TX, won 11 Features on the national circuit last year and comes into Volusia as the odds-on favorite for the points championship. During the season opener last January, he was one of only three drivers to start all three main events and produced the best average finish among them at 7.0, which included a podium finish on opening night.

Hafertepe also stands as the most experienced driver on the full-time roster with over 50 Feature starts at the Florida oval — his first coming almost 20 years ago in February 2006.

CHAMPIONSHIP CHASERS — Several drivers that followed the American Sprint Car Series circuit in 2025 will return to the full-time roster in 2026, starting with the first races this weekend. Currently, the list includes Hafertepe, Matt Covington, Kyler Johnson, Austyn Gossel, Ryder Laplante, Terry Easum and Brogan Carder.

Covington, of Glenpool, OK, was the second of three full-timers in 2025 to start all three main events at Volusia, with a best finish of ninth on opening night. He finished runner-up to Hafertepe in the 2025 points standings and will likely be a contender for his first national championship in 2026.

Laplante started Saturday’s main event at Volusia one year ago and finished 18th. Johnson, Gossel, Easum and Carder are all looking for their first main event start at the track.

Additionally, 2024 Series champion Seth Bergman is set to make his Volusia debut this weekend and has indicated his plans to follow the national schedule full-time in 2026. The Snohomish, WA-native made 15 appearances with the Series last year, notching one win at Electric City Speedway in Montana.

SUNSHINE RETURNS — After six months out of the seat, Tyler Courtney returns to Sprint Car racing this weekend aboard the Clauson Marshall Racing No. 7BC.

Courtney, 31, of Indianapolis, IN, was hospitalized after a violent crash at Eldora Speedway last July and underwent spinal fusion surgery to repair his broken T7 vertebrae. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, the national 410 Sprint Car regular is set to return to action at Volusia, making his first start with the American Sprint Car Series since his triumph at Knoxville Raceway’s 360 Knoxville Nationals in 2024.

Read Also — SUN RISING: Tyler Courtney Returns to Sprint Car Racing with ASCS at Volusia

The two-time United States Auto Club champion has had success at Volusia in the past, notching 13 top-10s, three top-fives and one memorable Feature win with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in a last-corner pass on Rico Abreu during DIRTcar Nationals in 2024.

OUTLAW INBOUND — The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series has a lone representative installing a 360c.i. engine to compete with the American Sprint Car Series this weekend and get some early track time before World of Outlaws action begins next week.

Cole Macedo, of Lemoore, CA, made his Volusia debut with the 360s one year ago and produced finishes of seventh, second, and fourth in the finale Saturday night. This weekend, the 25-year-old is back behind the wheel of the TwoC Racing No. 2C, owned by 2000 American Sprint Car Series champion Wayne Johnson, before starting his second full season on the national 410 Sprint Car circuit.

410 INVADERS — Multiple other 410 Sprint Car regulars are projected to join the 360 field this weekend, including standouts Brian Brown and Brock Zearfoss.

Brown, of Higginsville, MO, is a familiar face to 360 Sprint Car fans as a 21-time American Sprint Car Series Feature winner. One year ago, the 47-year-old came within one spot of his first Series victory since 2023 and his first career win at Volusia with a runner-up finish to Justin Peck. The following week, he posted finishes of sixth, 13th, 11th, and 15th with the World of Outlaws.

Zearfoss, of Jonestown, PA, will make his first American Sprint Car Series appearances since 2020 in his self-owned No. 3Z. The 35-year-old has made over 30 starts in 410 competition at Volusia with a best finish of seventh with the All-Star Circuit of Champions in 2023.

CONCORD, NC (January 27, 2026) – Cole Macedo is ready to hit the road for his sophomore World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series season in 2026.

The Lemoore, CA native teamed with Todd Carlile’s TwoC Racing to make his debut campaign in 2025, and the pairing is officially back for more.

With 2020 Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year, Wayne Johnson, on the wrenches, Macedo amassed five top fives and 20 top 10s last year. He peaked with a podium result at Eldora Speedway in May when he took the No. 2C from 12th to third. The 25-year-old also led Feature laps at both Talladega Short Track and Sharon Speedway before notching finishes of fourth and sixth.

“Obviously, the rookie season with a new team you’ve got your gremlins and bugs that you have to work out,” Macedo said. “I feel like the whole TwoC organization did a great job. It was just a big learning year. I feel like we learned all the things that we needed to work on and me as a driver what I needed to work on, you know, racing for points and that stuff.”

Macedo is fresh off a successful stay in Australia. He traveled “Down Under” to wheel the HighLine Motorsport No. USA40, picking up wins at Perth Motorplex during USA vs. WA Speedweek and at Premier Speedway in the International Sprintcar Carnival. He was leading the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic before trouble in lapped traffic heartbreakingly ended his run at the prestigious crown.

“I think it’s very valuable to stay in the seat and keep your mind sharp and keep your body in shape and all that good stuff,” Macedo said. “We really go there just to keep our tools sharp, but to have some success on top of it was really awesome and got me pretty confident rolling into Volusia here.”

The focus now shifts to a little pre-season practice at Volusia for Macedo and the TwoC crew. They’ll get some laps with the American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) at the “World’s Fastest Half Mile” this week (Jan. 29-31).

“I feel like it’s going to be a lot easier this year knowing most of the tracks, having a notebook,” Macedo said. “I feel like last year we had a learning year of what we needed to do to our race car to make it faster and more consistent for me, and I think we’re going to be able to address all of that here in the sophomore season.”

They’ll drop the 410 between the frame rails for Macedo to begin his second World of Outlaws tour next week at Volusia (Feb. 4-7) during the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. For tickets, CLICK HERE.

Where can you see the World of Outlaws in 2026? Click to see the full schedule.

Cole Macedo Eyes Sophomore Surge with TwoC Racing

CONCORD, NC (January 27, 2026) – Cole Macedo is ready to hit the road for his sophomore World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series season in 2026.

The Lemoore, CA native teamed with Todd Carlile’s TwoC Racing to make his debut campaign in 2025, and the pairing is officially back for more.

With 2020 Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year, Wayne Johnson, on the wrenches, Macedo amassed five top fives and 20 top 10s last year. He peaked with a podium result at Eldora Speedway in May when he took the No. 2C from 12th to third. The 25-year-old also led Feature laps at both Talladega Short Track and Sharon Speedway before notching finishes of fourth and sixth.

“Obviously, the rookie season with a new team you’ve got your gremlins and bugs that you have to work out,” Macedo said. “I feel like the whole TwoC organization did a great job. It was just a big learning year. I feel like we learned all the things that we needed to work on and me as a driver what I needed to work on, you know, racing for points and that stuff.”

Macedo is fresh off a successful stay in Australia. He traveled “Down Under” to wheel the HighLine Motorsport No. USA40, picking up wins at Perth Motorplex during USA vs. WA Speedweek and at Premier Speedway in the International Sprintcar Carnival. He was leading the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic before trouble in lapped traffic heartbreakingly ended his run at the prestigious crown.

“I think it’s very valuable to stay in the seat and keep your mind sharp and keep your body in shape and all that good stuff,” Macedo said. “We really go there just to keep our tools sharp, but to have some success on top of it was really awesome and got me pretty confident rolling into Volusia here.”

The focus now shifts to a little pre-season practice at Volusia for Macedo and the TwoC crew. They’ll get some laps with the American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) at the “World’s Fastest Half Mile” this week (Jan. 29-31).

“I feel like it’s going to be a lot easier this year knowing most of the tracks, having a notebook,” Macedo said. “I feel like last year we had a learning year of what we needed to do to our race car to make it faster and more consistent for me, and I think we’re going to be able to address all of that here in the sophomore season.”

They’ll drop the 410 between the frame rails for Macedo to begin his second World of Outlaws tour next week at Volusia (Feb. 4-7) during the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. For tickets, CLICK HERE.

Where can you see the World of Outlaws in 2026? Click to see the full schedule.

Where can you watch every World of Outlaws race? Live on DIRTVision.

BARBERVILLE, FL (January 27, 2026) – The DIRTcar UMP Modifieds are back at Volusia Speedway Park for the 21st year as the opening act of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. 

Known as the “Ironmen of DIRTcar Nationals,” Modified drivers will kick off the nine nights of action with three straight nights during Week 1 in conjunction with the American Sprint Car Series, Thursday-Saturday, Jan. 29-31. The three races won’t count toward the Big Gator title, but will award the famed golden gator trophy and count toward the Florida Speedweeks title. 

The Big Gator Championship chase begins Monday, Feb. 2, with six split Features held from Monday through Friday. On Friday, the Feature lineups will be determined by order of the event standings, as the top three finishers from the six 20-lap races earn a place in Saturday’s Gator Championship Feature. 

The final night of UMP Modified racing on Saturday, Feb. 7, will begin with Last Chance Showdowns, which advance the top three from each race to the 30-lap, $5,000-to-win Big Gator closer to complete the week’s racing. From Feb. 4-7, the Modifieds will be paired alongside the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series. 

DIRTCAR NATIONALS TICKETS

WATCH ON DIRTVISION

Here are the top storylines to watch: 

Spalding & Son – Reigning Big Gator champion Curt Spalding returns to Volusia for a quest to chase another Big Gator after winning both the Championship Feature and overall points last year. 

The Watervliet, MI native will have in-house competition as his son, Tyler, will make his debut in a UMP Modified at the Barberville, FL track. 

Both drivers enjoyed success outside of the “Sunshine State” as Curt took victory with the Summit Racing Equipment Modified Nationals at Shadyhill Speedway, and Tyler earned a runner-up finish in his first start at World Short Track Championship. 

Read More: Curt Spalding Keeps Focus on Florida UMP Modified Journey, Competing Alongside Son in 2026 

Sizzling Speedweeks – While much of the East Coast has been dealing with snow and frigid temperatures, Florida brought warmth for the UMP Modifieds in the FL Speedweeks opener at Hendry County Motorsports Park. 

The Speedweeks debut at the “Fastest Sand Pit in the South” saw a midwestern takeover as Kewanee, IL’s Ray Bollinger took the Friday opener and Claypool, IN’s Zeke McKenzie drove to Victory Lane in the Saturday finale. 

After the nine nights of racing at Volusia are completed, the Speedweeks champion will earn a $3,000 payday, in addition to a points fund for the top-10 in the standings. 

Sunshine Stronghold – As the best Modified drivers across the United States prepare for Volusia Speedway Park, they will be met with local Floridians seeking to defend home turf. 

Starke, FL’s Jason Garver comes fresh off his best career season with three Volusia track titles (UMP Modifieds, 602 Late Models, Factory Stocks) and the 2025 DIRTcar Florida championship. After suffering two DNFs at Hendry County, “Racin’ Jason” looks to the 1/2-mile in Barberville as his chance to regain early momentum. 

Before September 2025, Zane Oedewaldt had a career-high finish of fourth at Volusia, and itched for his turn in Victory Lane after six years since he left Illinois for Florida. Entering 2026, Oedewaldt owns a regular-season Feature win from the Battle in Barberville and a prelim victory in the Emil and Dale Reutimann Memorial. He and teammate Paul Shead will chase their first Golden Gator trophies before the “Fab 5” campaign commences in March. 

At 64 years old, Todd Neiheiser is still finding ways to park his No. 72 Elite Chassis in Volusia’s Victory Lane. In 2025, the Panama City, FL native went to Victory Lane in the inaugural Prelude to the Reutimann, along with celebrating a World Short Track Championship Feature win as a car owner for Ray Kable. Neiheiser owns a Golden Gator from 2023, but is hunting a first Big Gator.  

Gator Grip – The top DIRTcar UMP Modified racers got a feel for what to expect with Volusia’s new track surface when the 2025 campaign ended with the Emil and Dale Reutimann Memorial. 

After 50 laps of racing, World of Outlaws Late Models presented by DIRTVision racer Drake Troutman earned his first win in the event, and fellow Outlaw Ethan Dotson finished in second place. The time proved to be helpful for the Series opener at DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals, with Troutman earning a top five in the Saturday finale. 

Several veterans went for the $10,000 payday, including Kyle Strickler, Tyler Nicely, Justin Haley, Treb Jacoby, Kyle Hammer, among others. Armed with notes from the November trip, nine nights of DIRTcar Nationals will test their expectations of the gumbo surface alongside over 100 Modifieds that fill the property annually.  

BIG GATOR CHAMPIONS 

2025 – Curt Spalding 

2024 – Tyler Nicely 

2023 – Kyle Strickler 

2022 – Nick Hoffman 

2021 — Nick Hoffman 

2020 — Nick Hoffman 

2019 — Nick Hoffman 

2018 — Nick Hoffman 

2017 — Nick Hoffman 

2016 — Nick Hoffman 

2015 — Austin Dillon 

2014 — Ty Dillon 

2013 — Ken Schrader 

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: UMP Modifieds Chase 9 Nights of Gators in 55th DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia 

BARBERVILLE, FL (January 27, 2026) – The DIRTcar UMP Modifieds are back at Volusia Speedway Park for the 21st year as the opening act of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. 

Known as the “Ironmen of DIRTcar Nationals,” Modified drivers will kick off the nine nights of action with three straight nights during Week 1 in conjunction with the American Sprint Car Series, Thursday-Saturday, Jan. 29-31. The three races won’t count toward the Big Gator title, but will award the famed golden gator trophy and count toward the Florida Speedweeks title. 

The Big Gator Championship chase begins Monday, Feb. 2, with six split Features held from Monday through Friday. On Friday, the Feature lineups will be determined by order of the event standings, as the top three finishers from the six 20-lap races earn a place in Saturday’s Gator Championship Feature. 

The final night of UMP Modified racing on Saturday, Feb. 7, will begin with Last Chance Showdowns, which advance the top three from each race to the 30-lap, $5,000-to-win Big Gator closer to complete the week’s racing. From Feb. 4-7, the Modifieds will be paired alongside the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series. 

DIRTCAR NATIONALS TICKETS

WATCH ON DIRTVISION

Here are the top storylines to watch: 

Spalding & Son – Reigning Big Gator champion Curt Spalding returns to Volusia for a quest to chase another Big Gator after winning both the Championship Feature and overall points last year. 

The Watervliet, MI native will have in-house competition as his son, Tyler, will make his debut in a UMP Modified at the Barberville, FL track. 

Both drivers enjoyed success outside of the “Sunshine State” as Curt took victory with the Summit Racing Equipment Modified Nationals at Shadyhill Speedway, and Tyler earned a runner-up finish in his first start at World Short Track Championship. 

Read More: Curt Spalding Keeps Focus on Florida UMP Modified Journey, Competing Alongside Son in 2026 

Sizzling Speedweeks – While much of the East Coast has been dealing with snow and frigid temperatures, Florida brought warmth for the UMP Modifieds in the FL Speedweeks opener at Hendry County Motorsports Park. 

The Speedweeks debut at the “Fastest Sand Pit in the South” saw a midwestern takeover as Kewanee, IL’s Ray Bollinger took the Friday opener and Claypool, IN’s Zeke McKenzie drove to Victory Lane in the Saturday finale. 

After the nine nights of racing at Volusia are completed, the Speedweeks champion will earn a $3,000 payday, in addition to a points fund for the top-10 in the standings. 

Sunshine Stronghold – As the best Modified drivers across the United States prepare for Volusia Speedway Park, they will be met with local Floridians seeking to defend home turf. 

Starke, FL’s Jason Garver comes fresh off his best career season with three Volusia track titles (UMP Modifieds, 602 Late Models, Factory Stocks) and the 2025 DIRTcar Florida championship. After suffering two DNFs at Hendry County, “Racin’ Jason” looks to the 1/2-mile in Barberville as his chance to regain early momentum. 

Before September 2025, Zane Oedewaldt had a career-high finish of fourth at Volusia, and itched for his turn in Victory Lane after six years since he left Illinois for Florida. Entering 2026, Oedewaldt owns a regular-season Feature win from the Battle in Barberville and a prelim victory in the Emil and Dale Reutimann Memorial. He and teammate Paul Shead will chase their first Golden Gator trophies before the “Fab 5” campaign commences in March. 

At 64 years old, Todd Neiheiser is still finding ways to park his No. 72 Elite Chassis in Volusia’s Victory Lane. In 2025, the Panama City, FL native went to Victory Lane in the inaugural Prelude to the Reutimann, along with celebrating a World Short Track Championship Feature win as a car owner for Ray Kable. Neiheiser owns a Golden Gator from 2023, but is hunting a first Big Gator.  

Gator Grip – The top DIRTcar UMP Modified racers got a feel for what to expect with Volusia’s new track surface when the 2025 campaign ended with the Emil and Dale Reutimann Memorial. 

After 50 laps of racing, World of Outlaws Late Models presented by DIRTVision racer Drake Troutman earned his first win in the event, and fellow Outlaw Ethan Dotson finished in second place. The time proved to be helpful for the Series opener at DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals, with Troutman earning a top five in the Saturday finale. 

Several veterans went for the $10,000 payday, including Kyle Strickler, Tyler Nicely, Justin Haley, Treb Jacoby, Kyle Hammer, among others. Armed with notes from the November trip, nine nights of DIRTcar Nationals will test their expectations of the gumbo surface alongside over 100 Modifieds that fill the property annually.  

BIG GATOR CHAMPIONS 

2025 – Curt Spalding 

2024 – Tyler Nicely 

2023 – Kyle Strickler 

2022 – Nick Hoffman 

2021 — Nick Hoffman 

2020 — Nick Hoffman 

2019 — Nick Hoffman 

2018 — Nick Hoffman 

2017 — Nick Hoffman 

2016 — Nick Hoffman 

2015 — Austin Dillon 

2014 — Ty Dillon 

2013 — Ken Schrader 

2012 — Ty Dillon 

BARBERVILLE, FL (January 27, 2026) – Tyler Erb knew that his first full season on tour with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision would be a roller coaster ride. What he didn’t expect was a month’s worth of highs and lows packed into one weekend.

The first race night of DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park on Thursday got off to a fairly uneventful start. Erb’s Qualifying lap placed him fourth on the grid in his Heat Race, and he was running third when things went sideways – literally.

Out of nowhere, the Best Performance Motorsports No. 1 shot left exiting Turn 4 and made a beeline for the inside wall. With his primary car destroyed, there was a moment when “Terbo” considered calling it a night and turning his focus to getting the backup car ready for Friday’s action. But several of his fellow competitors in the pit area had other ideas.

“I still don’t even know what happened for it to wreck,” Erb said. “Just turned left and obviously it junked that car. My guys did a great job, got [the backup car] out. Ethan Dotson came and helped, Drake Troutman, Clay Harris, they were unloading it before I was even really ready to do it. I was almost like, ‘I’ll call it off for the day.’ But they got it out, which kind of helped push us, like, ‘OK, we’ll see what happens here.”

The choice to push forward proved to be the right one come Feature time. After taking a provisional to start 26th, Erb wasted no time charging through the field. He needed 12 laps to crack the top 15, and a late restart gave him the chance to pass a few more cars and salvage an eighth-place finish to start what he hopes is a championship bid.

“Ran really good in the Feature from starting dead last,” Erb said. “It was a big day. You know, you don’t want to start the year out with something like that, but we persevered and made the most of it.”

Not only did that performance prevent Erb from starting the season behind the eight ball, it also showed that the car he’d be running the rest of Sunshine Nationals with was equally as capable as the primary. That remained true early in Friday’s program, as Erb qualified on the pole of his Heat Race and won it wire-to-wire.

He drew the fourth spot in the Feature and soon made his way up to second behind the K&L Rumley Enterprises No. 6 of Hudson O’Neal. There were points when it looked like Erb would complete the recovery with his first win on the second night of the year, particularly on the final lap when he briefly made it side-by-side for the lead off Turn 2. O’Neal was ultimately out of reach on that night, but Erb’s runner-up effort let the world know he isn’t one to stay down for long.

“I fired off, and I was like, ‘Oh no, I’m in trouble.’ But as the race went on, I just got better and better,” Erb recalled from Friday’s Feature. “In hindsight, I feel like I should have moved down in [Turns] 1 and 2 sooner because I slid [Brandon] Sheppard. On the restarts, I could slide them and make so much speed into the center. I just never thought to actually slow down and try to run the middle or bottom, because Hudson was setting such a good pace. The last three or four laps, I was actually like, ‘OK, I’m going to run the middle, bottom. I’m never going to catch him on the top of [Turns] 1 and 2.’ I just started doing it, and we were actually making gains in [Turns] 3 and 4, I feel like I was a little bit better.”

In Saturday’s finale, early-night struggles relegated Erb to a Last Chance Showdown, and he was only able to climb to 16th in the main event. However, the points damage could be minimized by the format that only counts a driver’s five best finishes in the eight winter races at Volusia Speedway Park and Hendry County Motorsports Park toward the season-long standings. Erb is confident that the speed necessary to win World of Outlaws races is there, and he already has his eyes on Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals as his next chance to finish the job.

“Would’ve, could’ve, should’ve,” Erb said. “All in all, it was a great run. Definitely excited to race again.”

Erb will continue his 2026 season with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision at Volusia Speedway Park during Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14), followed by the Swamp Cabbage 100 at Hendry County Motorsports Park (Friday-Saturday, Feb. 20-21). Get tickets and more information for both events by clicking here.

From Tow Hook to Podium: Tyler Erb Details First Weekend Back as an Outlaw

BARBERVILLE, FL (January 27, 2026) – Tyler Erb knew that his first full season on tour with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision would be a roller coaster ride. What he didn’t expect was a month’s worth of highs and lows packed into one weekend.

The first race night of DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park on Thursday got off to a fairly uneventful start. Erb’s Qualifying lap placed him fourth on the grid in his Heat Race, and he was running third when things went sideways – literally.

Out of nowhere, the Best Performance Motorsports No. 1 shot left exiting Turn 4 and made a beeline for the inside wall. With his primary car destroyed, there was a moment when “Terbo” considered calling it a night and turning his focus to getting the backup car ready for Friday’s action. But several of his fellow competitors in the pit area had other ideas.

“I still don’t even know what happened for it to wreck,” Erb said. “Just turned left and obviously it junked that car. My guys did a great job, got [the backup car] out. Ethan Dotson came and helped, Drake Troutman, Clay Harris, they were unloading it before I was even really ready to do it. I was almost like, ‘I’ll call it off for the day.’ But they got it out, which kind of helped push us, like, ‘OK, we’ll see what happens here.”

The choice to push forward proved to be the right one come Feature time. After taking a provisional to start 26th, Erb wasted no time charging through the field. He needed 12 laps to crack the top 15, and a late restart gave him the chance to pass a few more cars and salvage an eighth-place finish to start what he hopes is a championship bid.

“Ran really good in the Feature from starting dead last,” Erb said. “It was a big day. You know, you don’t want to start the year out with something like that, but we persevered and made the most of it.”

Not only did that performance prevent Erb from starting the season behind the eight ball, it also showed that the car he’d be running the rest of Sunshine Nationals with was equally as capable as the primary. That remained true early in Friday’s program, as Erb qualified on the pole of his Heat Race and won it wire-to-wire.

He drew the fourth spot in the Feature and soon made his way up to second behind the K&L Rumley Enterprises No. 6 of Hudson O’Neal. There were points when it looked like Erb would complete the recovery with his first win on the second night of the year, particularly on the final lap when he briefly made it side-by-side for the lead off Turn 2. O’Neal was ultimately out of reach on that night, but Erb’s runner-up effort let the world know he isn’t one to stay down for long.

“I fired off, and I was like, ‘Oh no, I’m in trouble.’ But as the race went on, I just got better and better,” Erb recalled from Friday’s Feature. “In hindsight, I feel like I should have moved down in [Turns] 1 and 2 sooner because I slid [Brandon] Sheppard. On the restarts, I could slide them and make so much speed into the center. I just never thought to actually slow down and try to run the middle or bottom, because Hudson was setting such a good pace. The last three or four laps, I was actually like, ‘OK, I’m going to run the middle, bottom. I’m never going to catch him on the top of [Turns] 1 and 2.’ I just started doing it, and we were actually making gains in [Turns] 3 and 4, I feel like I was a little bit better.”

In Saturday’s finale, early-night struggles relegated Erb to a Last Chance Showdown, and he was only able to climb to 16th in the main event. However, the points damage could be minimized by the format that only counts a driver’s five best finishes in the eight winter races at Volusia Speedway Park and Hendry County Motorsports Park toward the season-long standings. Erb is confident that the speed necessary to win World of Outlaws races is there, and he already has his eyes on Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals as his next chance to finish the job.

“Would’ve, could’ve, should’ve,” Erb said. “All in all, it was a great run. Definitely excited to race again.”

Erb will continue his 2026 season with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision at Volusia Speedway Park during Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14), followed by the Swamp Cabbage 100 at Hendry County Motorsports Park (Friday-Saturday, Feb. 20-21). Get tickets and more information for both events by clicking here.

Want to watch the World of Outlaws? Stream every race live on DIRTVision.

Nicole Baird’s 1932 Ford Roadster was crowned America’s Most Beautiful Roadster at the 76th Grand National Roadster Show…

THE SHOP Staff Send an email February 2, 2026 3 minute read

The O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show, presented by Meguiar’s, recognized the country’s top roadsters, hot rods and custom vehicles during its awards ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 1, at the Fairplex in Pomona, California. The ceremony marked the culmination of the 76th annual show and included the presentation of two of the custom car world’s most coveted awards—America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) and the Al Slonaker Memorial Award, event organizers stated in a press release.

America’s Most Beautiful Roadster was awarded to a 1932 Ford Roadster owned by Nicole Baird and built by Squeeg’s Kustoms. The car beat out eight other AMBR contenders and took home the title’s $12,500 prize sponsored by ARP Fasteners. Baird’s name will be engraved on the award’s 9.5-foot-tall perpetual trophy alongside 75 former AMBR award recipients, including legends like George Barris, Andy Brizio and Chip Foose.

A descendant of the Ford Motor Co. family, Baird presented a meticulously executed roadster finished in metallic blue pearl with white scallops detailed finishes, noted the release. The paintwork was completed by Tracy and Terry Weaver, complemented by extensive chrome by Jon Wright & Ogden and polish from Russell’s Custom Polish. Power is supplied by a Buick Nailhead V-8 built by Roger Beckman, while the interior was crafted by Recovery Room.

The 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award

Dennis Troggio’s 1955 VW Karmann Ghia, built by Type One Restoration, was awarded the 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Troggio went head-to-head against a diverse field of 12 contenders, which included a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette, 1956 Plymouth Roadrunner and a 1951 Studebaker Champion.

Dedicated to the memory of Al and Mary Slonaker, who founded the Grand National Roadster Show in 1950, the award has been presented to the show’s best non-roadster vehicle since 1974. In addition, Traggio also received a $12,500 prize courtesy of ARP Fasteners and a billet trophy.

Troggio’s Karmann Ghia by Type One Restorations was built over the course of approximately four years. The car was extensively reengineered with reshaped body panels, including restyled fenders, doors, hood and decklid, along with modified wheel openings and stretched quarter-panels to accommodate wider tires.

Finished in a custom dark green over olive green paint scheme, the Ghia features an extraordinary level of detail, from bespoke fasteners with custom-machined bolt heads to brake rotors machined from solid 90-pound blocks of cast iron. At its core is a 2.4-liter air-cooled flat-four, paired with a reinforced transmission and limited-slip differential to handle the increased output.

Industry Legends, Historic Cars & Ground-Breaking Builds

“The 76th annual Grand National Roadster Show demonstrated that the world of hot rodding and custom cars is as innovative and popular as ever,” said John Buck, owner of Rod Shows and producer of the Grand National Roadster Show. “We were honored to have so many industry legends, historic cars and ground-breaking builds fill the Fairplex this year. It was the perfect way to celebrate more than seven decades of this incredible show.”

This event also featured a special “Fat Attack” display showcasing the largest collection of fat fender cars and trucks from 1935-48, including the “Project 40” 1940 Ford Sedan, “Big John” Mazmanian’s 1940 Willys Gasser, John D’Agostino’s 1940 Merc Kustom “Stardust” and cars built by iconic industry legends including Chip Foose, Boyd Coddington and Gene Winfield. The event also recognized Russell Zulim and Double Z Hot Rods as the 2026 GNRS Builder of the Year with a special display.

The 20th annual Grand Daddy Drive-In hosted more than 1,500 vehicles ranging from classic hot rods to modern customs in the outdoor portion of the show, while the popular pinstriper auctions raised more than $70,000 for the Every ONE Free Foundation.

Winners of America’s Most Beautiful Roadster & Al Slonaker Memorial Award

Nicole Baird’s 1932 Ford Roadster was crowned America’s Most Beautiful Roadster at the 76th Grand National Roadster Show…

THE SHOP Staff Send an email February 2, 2026 3 minute read

The O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show, presented by Meguiar’s, recognized the country’s top roadsters, hot rods and custom vehicles during its awards ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 1, at the Fairplex in Pomona, California. The ceremony marked the culmination of the 76th annual show and included the presentation of two of the custom car world’s most coveted awards—America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) and the Al Slonaker Memorial Award, event organizers stated in a press release.

America’s Most Beautiful Roadster was awarded to a 1932 Ford Roadster owned by Nicole Baird and built by Squeeg’s Kustoms. The car beat out eight other AMBR contenders and took home the title’s $12,500 prize sponsored by ARP Fasteners. Baird’s name will be engraved on the award’s 9.5-foot-tall perpetual trophy alongside 75 former AMBR award recipients, including legends like George Barris, Andy Brizio and Chip Foose.

A descendant of the Ford Motor Co. family, Baird presented a meticulously executed roadster finished in metallic blue pearl with white scallops detailed finishes, noted the release. The paintwork was completed by Tracy and Terry Weaver, complemented by extensive chrome by Jon Wright & Ogden and polish from Russell’s Custom Polish. Power is supplied by a Buick Nailhead V-8 built by Roger Beckman, while the interior was crafted by Recovery Room.

The 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award

Dennis Troggio’s 1955 VW Karmann Ghia, built by Type One Restoration, was awarded the 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Troggio went head-to-head against a diverse field of 12 contenders, which included a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette, 1956 Plymouth Roadrunner and a 1951 Studebaker Champion.

Dedicated to the memory of Al and Mary Slonaker, who founded the Grand National Roadster Show in 1950, the award has been presented to the show’s best non-roadster vehicle since 1974. In addition, Traggio also received a $12,500 prize courtesy of ARP Fasteners and a billet trophy.

Troggio’s Karmann Ghia by Type One Restorations was built over the course of approximately four years. The car was extensively reengineered with reshaped body panels, including restyled fenders, doors, hood and decklid, along with modified wheel openings and stretched quarter-panels to accommodate wider tires.

Finished in a custom dark green over olive green paint scheme, the Ghia features an extraordinary level of detail, from bespoke fasteners with custom-machined bolt heads to brake rotors machined from solid 90-pound blocks of cast iron. At its core is a 2.4-liter air-cooled flat-four, paired with a reinforced transmission and limited-slip differential to handle the increased output.

Industry Legends, Historic Cars & Ground-Breaking Builds

“The 76th annual Grand National Roadster Show demonstrated that the world of hot rodding and custom cars is as innovative and popular as ever,” said John Buck, owner of Rod Shows and producer of the Grand National Roadster Show. “We were honored to have so many industry legends, historic cars and ground-breaking builds fill the Fairplex this year. It was the perfect way to celebrate more than seven decades of this incredible show.”

This event also featured a special “Fat Attack” display showcasing the largest collection of fat fender cars and trucks from 1935-48, including the “Project 40” 1940 Ford Sedan, “Big John” Mazmanian’s 1940 Willys Gasser, John D’Agostino’s 1940 Merc Kustom “Stardust” and cars built by iconic industry legends including Chip Foose, Boyd Coddington and Gene Winfield. The event also recognized Russell Zulim and Double Z Hot Rods as the 2026 GNRS Builder of the Year with a special display.

The 20th annual Grand Daddy Drive-In hosted more than 1,500 vehicles ranging from classic hot rods to modern customs in the outdoor portion of the show, while the popular pinstriper auctions raised more than $70,000 for the Every ONE Free Foundation.

The 77th Grand National Roadster Show returns to the Pomona Fairplex on Feb. 5-7, 2027. For more information about the Grand National Roadster Show and the complete list of 2026 award winners, visit rodshows.com/gnrs.

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 26, 2026) — Six months ago, Tyler Courtney laid in a hospital bed recovering from surgery, pondering his future and his odds to ever race a Sprint Car again.

A violent crash in July 2025 destroyed his race car, but not his drive to pursue his passion.

“I think there were times when I didn’t see a lot of progress happening. Those are tough times, I’ll tell you that,” said Courtney, of Indianapolis, IN. “Those are tough times when you kinda think your career might be over.

“But it never stopped me from working hard to get back to where I am now.”

This weekend, the national 410 Sprint Car regular will get back behind the wheel of the Clauson Marshall Racing, NOS Energy Drink No. 7BC for the first time since the accident with a 360c.i. engine under the hood as the American Sprint Car Series opens its 35th season of competition at Volusia Speedway Park.

Over the last 28 weeks, Courtney said he’s spent enough time in doctor’s appointments and physical therapy sessions to last him a lifetime. Being out of the race car was hard for the 31-year-old, but his wait is finally over. It’s time to put the helmet on once again.

“I would say excited is an understatement,” Courtney said. “I live, sleep, breathe, eat and drink racing. So, not doing anything to that nature… obviously, I was around the racetrack, but not being in the car the last six months really eats at you. Being able to get back behind the wheel is… exciting isn’t the right word. If there was a better word than ‘excited’ I’d use it.”

Courtney’s high-speed rollover crash at Eldora Speedway last summer led to safety officials extracting him from his car before medical personnel transported him to a hospital for evaluation. What doctors found forced him out of the seat for the remainder of his 2025 campaign.

“I broke my T7 (vertebrae) and they fused me from T5 to T9,” Courtney said. “I got 10 screws. I know for sure two, but there might be three plates in there, I’m not sure.”

He spent the next four months resting in recovery from the procedure and began physical therapy in November. Courtney also went through a period of wearing glasses to correct double vision — a temporary symptom of cranial nerve damage he suffered in the crash. Now fully healed from injury and cleared by all doctors, “Sunshine” is just thankful for a sense of normalcy to return to his schedule after questioning his future in the sport.

“I don’t think there was ever a point I thought I’d willingly not get back into it, but there were definitely points that I thought in the whole process that I might not be able to,” Courtney said. “Once I got cleared from my doctors, they were kinda up front with me on that, saying that they didn’t think I would be either. But obviously, they can’t just come out and tell you that. They want to keep your hopes up and make you work hard to get back to where you were.

“Obviously, that worked.”

A former standout in the non-winged variety of open-wheel racing, the two-time United States Auto Club champion made a transition to the 410 Winged Sprint Car world full-time in 2021, where he’s spent nearly every minute of his on-track time since. What few 360 Sprint Car starts he’s made in that time have come mostly with the American Sprint Car Series at Knoxville Raceway in the 360 Knoxville Nationals, which he won in 2024.

This Thursday–Saturday, he’ll make his first appearance with the Series since that triumphant night in Iowa.

“I got talking with my team, and I was like, ‘Why don’t we just go down there and run with the 360s? That would probably be a better way for me to kinda get my footing underneath me,’” Courtney said. “Obviously, it’s still fast in a 360 at Volusia, but it’s not quite a 410. So, we decided to go down there and get our feet wet. We put a deal together with our engine builder at Stanton Racing Engines to get a 360 built.”

The speed of the historic Florida 1/2-mile oval that is Volusia Speedway Park is not unfamiliar to Courtney. In 18 career starts, he’s compiled 13 top-10s, three top-fives and one memorable Feature win with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in a last-corner pass on Rico Abreu.

“I think Volusia’s gonna be a great place, honestly, because it’s typically pretty smooth, it’s fast, and it races well when they have the track right,” Courtney said. “I think it’s gonna be a good place to get me back up to speed. I think speed is the one thing I’ve been lacking over the last six months — the raw speed of everything. Obviously, I’ve driven my streetcar around and stuff, but that’s not going 120 miles an hour around other cars.”

In the early stages of his recovery, Courtney set himself a goal to be fully recovered and ready for competition again by February. Opening night of competition at Volusia lands on January 29. He admits his physical recovery process exceeded his expectations, and he may have found some additional fortitude along the way as well.

“I think it’s made me stronger mentally,” Courtney said. “I always felt like I was pretty strong mentally before, but just not letting anything creep in or deter me from my ultimate goal was important for me to realize. I think the people around me helped me with that.”

His last six months have been difficult. But he’s taken the steps, he’s traveled the road to recovery and is ready for the biggest return of his career with one goal in mind.

“I think, for me, it was more important to prove to people that this can happen to you, but it’s up to me to make it happen and get back to where I was before,” Courtney said. “I think injuries don’t get talked about a lot in our sport; I think it’s just kind of a scary thing. But at the end of the day, racing is dangerous, and these things are gonna happen to people.

“I guess I just wanted to show people that you can get hurt and come back and be who you were before.”

The 35th American Sprint Car Series season gets underway Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31, at Volusia Speedway Park in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. Tickets are on sale now; click here to purchase.

SUN RISING: Tyler Courtney Returns to Sprint Car Racing with ASCS at Volusia

BARBERVILLE, FL (Jan. 26, 2026) — Six months ago, Tyler Courtney laid in a hospital bed recovering from surgery, pondering his future and his odds to ever race a Sprint Car again.

A violent crash in July 2025 destroyed his race car, but not his drive to pursue his passion.

“I think there were times when I didn’t see a lot of progress happening. Those are tough times, I’ll tell you that,” said Courtney, of Indianapolis, IN. “Those are tough times when you kinda think your career might be over.

“But it never stopped me from working hard to get back to where I am now.”

This weekend, the national 410 Sprint Car regular will get back behind the wheel of the Clauson Marshall Racing, NOS Energy Drink No. 7BC for the first time since the accident with a 360c.i. engine under the hood as the American Sprint Car Series opens its 35th season of competition at Volusia Speedway Park.

Over the last 28 weeks, Courtney said he’s spent enough time in doctor’s appointments and physical therapy sessions to last him a lifetime. Being out of the race car was hard for the 31-year-old, but his wait is finally over. It’s time to put the helmet on once again.

“I would say excited is an understatement,” Courtney said. “I live, sleep, breathe, eat and drink racing. So, not doing anything to that nature… obviously, I was around the racetrack, but not being in the car the last six months really eats at you. Being able to get back behind the wheel is… exciting isn’t the right word. If there was a better word than ‘excited’ I’d use it.”

Courtney’s high-speed rollover crash at Eldora Speedway last summer led to safety officials extracting him from his car before medical personnel transported him to a hospital for evaluation. What doctors found forced him out of the seat for the remainder of his 2025 campaign.

“I broke my T7 (vertebrae) and they fused me from T5 to T9,” Courtney said. “I got 10 screws. I know for sure two, but there might be three plates in there, I’m not sure.”

He spent the next four months resting in recovery from the procedure and began physical therapy in November. Courtney also went through a period of wearing glasses to correct double vision — a temporary symptom of cranial nerve damage he suffered in the crash. Now fully healed from injury and cleared by all doctors, “Sunshine” is just thankful for a sense of normalcy to return to his schedule after questioning his future in the sport.

“I don’t think there was ever a point I thought I’d willingly not get back into it, but there were definitely points that I thought in the whole process that I might not be able to,” Courtney said. “Once I got cleared from my doctors, they were kinda up front with me on that, saying that they didn’t think I would be either. But obviously, they can’t just come out and tell you that. They want to keep your hopes up and make you work hard to get back to where you were.

“Obviously, that worked.”

A former standout in the non-winged variety of open-wheel racing, the two-time United States Auto Club champion made a transition to the 410 Winged Sprint Car world full-time in 2021, where he’s spent nearly every minute of his on-track time since. What few 360 Sprint Car starts he’s made in that time have come mostly with the American Sprint Car Series at Knoxville Raceway in the 360 Knoxville Nationals, which he won in 2024.

This Thursday–Saturday, he’ll make his first appearance with the Series since that triumphant night in Iowa.

“I got talking with my team, and I was like, ‘Why don’t we just go down there and run with the 360s? That would probably be a better way for me to kinda get my footing underneath me,’” Courtney said. “Obviously, it’s still fast in a 360 at Volusia, but it’s not quite a 410. So, we decided to go down there and get our feet wet. We put a deal together with our engine builder at Stanton Racing Engines to get a 360 built.”

The speed of the historic Florida 1/2-mile oval that is Volusia Speedway Park is not unfamiliar to Courtney. In 18 career starts, he’s compiled 13 top-10s, three top-fives and one memorable Feature win with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in a last-corner pass on Rico Abreu.

“I think Volusia’s gonna be a great place, honestly, because it’s typically pretty smooth, it’s fast, and it races well when they have the track right,” Courtney said. “I think it’s gonna be a good place to get me back up to speed. I think speed is the one thing I’ve been lacking over the last six months — the raw speed of everything. Obviously, I’ve driven my streetcar around and stuff, but that’s not going 120 miles an hour around other cars.”

In the early stages of his recovery, Courtney set himself a goal to be fully recovered and ready for competition again by February. Opening night of competition at Volusia lands on January 29. He admits his physical recovery process exceeded his expectations, and he may have found some additional fortitude along the way as well.

“I think it’s made me stronger mentally,” Courtney said. “I always felt like I was pretty strong mentally before, but just not letting anything creep in or deter me from my ultimate goal was important for me to realize. I think the people around me helped me with that.”

His last six months have been difficult. But he’s taken the steps, he’s traveled the road to recovery and is ready for the biggest return of his career with one goal in mind.

“I think, for me, it was more important to prove to people that this can happen to you, but it’s up to me to make it happen and get back to where I was before,” Courtney said. “I think injuries don’t get talked about a lot in our sport; I think it’s just kind of a scary thing. But at the end of the day, racing is dangerous, and these things are gonna happen to people.

“I guess I just wanted to show people that you can get hurt and come back and be who you were before.”

The 35th American Sprint Car Series season gets underway Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29–31, at Volusia Speedway Park in the 55th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. Tickets are on sale now; click here to purchase.

How can you watch the American Sprint Car Series? Live on DIRTVision.

Todd Morrow Living Out World of Outlaws Dream Full-Time in 2026

CONCORD, NC (January 26, 2026) – The 2026 season may already be underway, but the roster of full-time World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision drivers is still expanding.

Todd Morrow has declared his intentions to contest the full 2026 season with The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet behind the wheel of the Britton Motorsports No. T1. The 40-year-old Penton, AL driver becomes the fifth World of Outlaws newcomer chasing this year’s MD3 Rookie of the Year Award, joining Trey Mills, Logan Zarin, Eli Johnson and Daulton Wilson.

“We just started last year at the World [100], we put all this together and we’ve only been doing it for six months,” Morrow said. “I originally retired because it had just got so expensive, and I had been out of it for about eight years. Just started back at Eldora [Speedway] for my debut. We’ve got a lot of learning, but they wanted to do it. I always wanted to do this one time, so we’re going to see if we can make it happen.”

Following the Eldora trip, Morrow traveled to seven more events across the southeast last fall in preparation for the upcoming season. The signs of progress were there, as Morrow made his first World of Outlaws Feature start at Senoia Raceway and earned a Southern All Stars top five at Dixie Speedway, marking the resumption of his story in the sport that began decades ago.

“My dad was always around it, grew up around Cleveland Speedway with Joe Lee Johnson,” Morrow said. “I just always wanted to race. Started racing when I was probably six in go karts, then started in cars when I was 14.”

Morrow went on to become a well-respected regional racer in the south, with five Southern All Stars wins highlighting his resume. He knows that expanding his footprint to the national level this season will bring plenty of challenges, which is why he’s keeping his expectations modest in the short-term while building toward the future.

“Just run all the races and be competitive,” Morrow said regarding his goals for 2026. “Sure, a win would be nice, but with me being out of the game, just building a notebook, getting competitive, and working on it for next year.”

Morrow will continue his 2026 season with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision at Volusia Speedway Park during Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14), followed by the Swamp Cabbage 100 at Hendry County Motorsports Park (Friday-Saturday, Feb. 20-21). Get tickets and more information for both events by clicking here.

Want to watch the World of Outlaws? Stream every race live on DIRTVision.

Todd Morrow Living Out World of Outlaws Dream Full-Time in 2026

CONCORD, NC (January 26, 2026) – The 2026 season may already be underway, but the roster of full-time World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision drivers is still expanding.

Todd Morrow has declared his intentions to contest the full 2026 season with The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet behind the wheel of the Britton Motorsports No. T1. The 40-year-old Penton, AL driver becomes the fifth World of Outlaws newcomer chasing this year’s MD3 Rookie of the Year Award, joining Trey Mills, Logan Zarin, Eli Johnson and Daulton Wilson.

“We just started last year at the World [100], we put all this together and we’ve only been doing it for six months,” Morrow said. “I originally retired because it had just got so expensive, and I had been out of it for about eight years. Just started back at Eldora [Speedway] for my debut. We’ve got a lot of learning, but they wanted to do it. I always wanted to do this one time, so we’re going to see if we can make it happen.”

Following the Eldora trip, Morrow traveled to seven more events across the southeast last fall in preparation for the upcoming season. The signs of progress were there, as Morrow made his first World of Outlaws Feature start at Senoia Raceway and earned a Southern All Stars top five at Dixie Speedway, marking the resumption of his story in the sport that began decades ago.

“My dad was always around it, grew up around Cleveland Speedway with Joe Lee Johnson,” Morrow said. “I just always wanted to race. Started racing when I was probably six in go karts, then started in cars when I was 14.”

Morrow went on to become a well-respected regional racer in the south, with five Southern All Stars wins highlighting his resume. He knows that expanding his footprint to the national level this season will bring plenty of challenges, which is why he’s keeping his expectations modest in the short-term while building toward the future.

“Just run all the races and be competitive,” Morrow said regarding his goals for 2026. “Sure, a win would be nice, but with me being out of the game, just building a notebook, getting competitive, and working on it for next year.”

Morrow will continue his 2026 season with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision at Volusia Speedway Park during Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14), followed by the Swamp Cabbage 100 at Hendry County Motorsports Park (Friday-Saturday, Feb. 20-21). Get tickets and more information for both events by clicking here.

Todd Morrow Living Out World of Outlaws Dream Full-Time in 2026

CONCORD, NC (January 26, 2026) – The 2026 season may already be underway, but the roster of full-time World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision drivers is still expanding.

Todd Morrow has declared his intentions to contest the full 2026 season with The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet behind the wheel of the Britton Motorsports No. T1. The 40-year-old Penton, AL driver becomes the fifth World of Outlaws newcomer chasing this year’s MD3 Rookie of the Year Award, joining Trey Mills, Logan Zarin, Eli Johnson and Daulton Wilson.

“We just started last year at the World [100], we put all this together and we’ve only been doing it for six months,” Morrow said. “I originally retired because it had just got so expensive, and I had been out of it for about eight years. Just started back at Eldora [Speedway] for my debut. We’ve got a lot of learning, but they wanted to do it. I always wanted to do this one time, so we’re going to see if we can make it happen.”

Following the Eldora trip, Morrow traveled to seven more events across the southeast last fall in preparation for the upcoming season. The signs of progress were there, as Morrow made his first World of Outlaws Feature start at Senoia Raceway and earned a Southern All Stars top five at Dixie Speedway, marking the resumption of his story in the sport that began decades ago.

“My dad was always around it, grew up around Cleveland Speedway with Joe Lee Johnson,” Morrow said. “I just always wanted to race. Started racing when I was probably six in go karts, then started in cars when I was 14.”

Morrow went on to become a well-respected regional racer in the south, with five Southern All Stars wins highlighting his resume. He knows that expanding his footprint to the national level this season will bring plenty of challenges, which is why he’s keeping his expectations modest in the short-term while building toward the future.

“Just run all the races and be competitive,” Morrow said regarding his goals for 2026. “Sure, a win would be nice, but with me being out of the game, just building a notebook, getting competitive, and working on it for next year.”

Morrow will continue his 2026 season with the World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision at Volusia Speedway Park during Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14), followed by the Swamp Cabbage 100 at Hendry County Motorsports Park (Friday-Saturday, Feb. 20-21). Get tickets and more information for both events by clicking here.

Want to watch the World of Outlaws? Stream every race live on DIRTVision.

Faces familiar and new to call the shots for 24-time championship organization’s three Funny Car and one Top Fuel program

JOHN FORCE RACING ANNOUNCES CREW CHIEFSFOR NHRA’S 75th ANNIVERSARY SEASONFaces familiar and new to call the shots for 24-time championship organization’s three Funny Car and one Top Fuel program

BROWNSBURG, Ind. (Jan. 26, 2026) – John Force Racing rolls into a new era of competition for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season with an expanded lineup of drivers, crew chiefs and crew who collectively have the singular focus of winning for the 24-time championship organization. “This is a great time to be part of John Force Racing and I’m more excited about getting the season going than I have been in a long time,” said 16-time NHRA Funny Car World Champion and team owner John Force. “There are new crew chiefs and crew members bringing fresh blood to the race shop, sharing their experience and know-how with the crew chiefs and crew already established here who have won races and championships and set national records. We’re back to having four teams in Top Fuel and Funny Car and I can’t wait to see them go down the track at Gainesville.” Continuing to call the shots for 2012 NHRA Funny Car World Champion Jack Beckman and the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet SS Funny Car team will be veteran crew chiefs Danny Hood and Tim Fabrisi. Beckman’s first full season with the PEAK SQUAD garnered a third-place finish in the 2025 point standings on the strength of two victories (Pomona 1, Chicago) and three runner-up finishes (Richmond, Indianapolis, St. Louis) as well as five No. 1 Qualifier spots (Gainesville, Chicago, Richmond, Brainerd, Indianapolis). Long-time John Force Racing crew chief Chris Cunningham moves from the PEAK SQUAD to join forces with co-crew chief Jason Bunker, most recently with Cruz Pedregon Racing, in overseeing the performance of the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team with driver Jordan Vandergriff. Vandergriff will make his Funny Car debut in 2026 after competing in 11 Top Fuel events in 2019, earning a runner-up finish at Dallas and two other semi-final showings. After a five-year hiatus from the competition, he made two starts last season in relief of injured Top Fuel driver Shawn Reed. David Grubnic and John Collins will continue to prepare the John Force Racing Top Fuel Dragster in 2026 with Josh Hart now behind the wheel and a new primary partnership with Hart’s Burnyzz Speed Shop. Last year, Grubnic and Collins guided two-time NHRA Top Fuel World Champion Brittany Force, who stepped out of the seat at season’s end to start a family, to a fourth-place finish in the point standings with two wins (New Hampshire and Las Vegas, her female record-breaking 19th in the class) one runner-up finish (Seattle), and six No. 1 Qualifier positions (Pomona1, Richmond, Sonoma, Indianapolis, Charlotte2, Las Vegas). The team also set the NHRA speed national record multiple times, the final mark of 343. 51 mph made at Indianapolis. Hart, who has two NHRA Top Fuel victories to his credit (2021 Gainesville and Charlotte), finished 10th in last year’s Top Fuel point standings as team owner and driver. The decision-makers on the Bandero Premium Tequila Chevrolet SS Funny Car team with driver Alexis DeJoria are Mike Neff, who has been both driver and crew chief with John Force Racing and was DeJoria’s crew chief last season, and Jonnie Lindberg, also a former driver who was co-crew chief the past two seasons at Paul Lee Racing. The six-time NHRA Funny Car event winner finished 12th in last season’s point standings, with semifinal finishes at Gainesville, Epping, Seattle and Indianapolis. John Force Racing kicks off the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, the sanctioning body’s 75th anniversary, March 5-8 with the AMALIE MOTOR OIL NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway.

Action Express Racing team of Aitken, Bamber, Vesti and Zilisch Come Back from Lap DownDAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 25, 2026) — The Rolex 24 At Daytona became a six-hour sprint race after overnight fog kept the race under yellow conditions for more than six-and-a-half hours. But the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R from Action Express Racing team stormed through the fog and came from a lap down to finish second and just 1.5 seconds behind the No. 7 Penske Motorsports car.  Jack Aitken, who drove along with Earl Bamber, Frederik Vesti and Connor Zilisch, made a hard charge throughout the final hour and nearly caught the No. 7 Penske machine twice, but had to settle for a podium finish.

It’s Cadillac’s ninth podium finish in 10 Rolex 24 At Daytona races and the second consecutive runner-up finish.  The No. 40 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing V-Series.R sponsored by DEX for Jordan Taylor, Louis Deletraz and Colton Herta finished sixth.  Their teammates – Ricky Taylor, Filipe Albuquerque and Will Stevens – driving the No. 10 car suffered a mechanical issue and, combined with the time remaining in the race, retired from the event.

With the runner-up finish, Cadillac Racing now has 105 podiums (21 GTP, 84 DPi) since joining IMSA prototype competition in 2017. The Cadillac Racing team now heads to the 74th running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 18-21 in Sebring, Florida.  Peacock (U.S.) and IMSA’s YouTube (not in the U.S.) will broadcast beginning at 10 am ET on Saturday, March 21, and NBCSN will broadcast beginning at 5 pm ET. Peacock (U.S.) and IMSA’s YouTube channel will stream the entirety of the race along with the IMSA Radio broadcast at IMSA.com, Sirius 211/XM 207.

Driver Quotes  No. 31 Cadillac Whelen Jack Aitken: “We had to fight pretty much all the way through the race, and it was not an easy 24-Hour race. Not like some previous years where some things came our way. Couple of setbacks early on and we had to dig deep to get back on the lead lap and get through the field. There were some fantastic stints all the way through the night and the end. To fall just short is a bit heartbreaking. Hopefully this shows the strength of the Whelen Cadillac. We were able to take the challenge to them today and it’s a testament to the boys and girls that got the car on the grid today. Big thanks to them and to Cadillac as a whole. We’re going to keep flighting and get that win someday.” Earl Bamber: “We had a good car and a good team and we knew Porsche was going to be strong at the start of the race and they were going to be our main contender. So yeah, I think it was going to be between the 7, the 6 and ourselves. We came up short by 1.5 seconds, but I think it was an amazing team effort by everyone on Cadillac and Whelen. We had quite a few setbacks and issues in the night and we just kept digging and digging and came home second. Obviously it’s not what we wanted, but we will finish second and take the points.” Frederik Vesti: “It’s one of the first times in my life I’ve been extremely disappointed with a second-place finish. That just says so much about our potential this weekend. But to finish second in a race where we were a lap down, we had few minor issues throughout the race so to finish second is a very big result. Obviously finishing second by 1.5 seconds from P1 is extremely frustrating, but it’s a great start to the season. We can all be proud of everyone on the team and the efforts this weekend. And we’ll come back a do better.” Connor Zilisch: “Yeah, it was a great day. Jack (Aitken) did everything he could there at the end to try and get us the win, but just came up a little bit short. I am so proud of the effort of everyone with Cadillac and Action Express Racing. I had a lot of fun being a part of it and getting to learn from all those guys, my teammates, so yeah just thankful for the opportunity and happy it went well. Second always sucks, but we did everything we could, and we have to be proud of that.”

No. 40 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing Louis Deletraz: “Well, we made it to the end and congratulations to the 31 for the second place and to Cadillac. We made it to the end and no mistakes by the drivers and no mistakes from the team. I think sometime after midnight something broke at the back of the car, to be confirmed, but we lost a lot of pace out of it. I think we were quite good on deg (degradation), but then again when its losing pace, we just didn’t have it. We had good strategy on fuel and its good points on the championship. Looking forward to more and can’t wait to get to Sebring already.” Colton Herta: “Hard fight to the end for us in the 40 car. Was not the race that we wanted, but good points for the full-time guys. We never gave up and tried our hardest, so proud of that and definitely some stuff to look at and get better on for Sebring. Looking forward to that one.” Jordan Taylor: “Yeah, obviously not a great day for the whole team and for us. I think we salvaged sixth place there at the end with a good call on fuel strategy, but overall, disappointed because a couple of times I thought we were in the mix for the race. So, just hopefully we can go to Sebring with a little more pace and win there.”

No. 10 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing Filipe Albuquerque: “What a shame, it’s a long race but for me a very short race because of the fog (overnight), but we still got to P3 and Ricky was looking very very strong. I think we could have battle for something and the pace is better from Wayne Taylor Racing.”  Will Stevens: “A disappointing result, but there are some positives to take away from the week. At times during the race, we had the pace to be up in the standings, but it’s disappointing, not to be at the end to fight for something. I think we made good steps over the winter, and we’ll take some time to digest it and move on to Sebring.” Ricky Taylor: “What a shame. I feel bad because on that last stint, the last thing I did was make a mistake in turn six, but I think we had a really good Cadillac. We were the only ones on new tires and were making some progress and something went wrong. Really unfortunate but I am very proud of the team and the guys and coming here with a second year with Cadillac and I think we were finally doing justice to what the Cadillac GTP can do, so it’s encouraging for the remainder of the year.”

Cadillac Has Strong Runner-Up Finish in Rolex 24 At DaytonaAction Express Racing team of Aitken, Bamber, Vesti and Zilisch Come Back from Lap DownDAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 25, 2026) — The Rolex 24 At Daytona became a six-hour sprint race after overnight fog kept the race under yellow conditions for more than six-and-a-half hours. But the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R from Action Express Racing team stormed through the fog and came from a lap down to finish second and just 1.5 seconds behind the No. 7 Penske Motorsports car.  Jack Aitken, who drove along with Earl Bamber, Frederik Vesti and Connor Zilisch, made a hard charge throughout the final hour and nearly caught the No. 7 Penske machine twice, but had to settle for a podium finish.

It’s Cadillac’s ninth podium finish in 10 Rolex 24 At Daytona races and the second consecutive runner-up finish.  The No. 40 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing V-Series.R sponsored by DEX for Jordan Taylor, Louis Deletraz and Colton Herta finished sixth.  Their teammates – Ricky Taylor, Filipe Albuquerque and Will Stevens – driving the No. 10 car suffered a mechanical issue and, combined with the time remaining in the race, retired from the event.

With the runner-up finish, Cadillac Racing now has 105 podiums (21 GTP, 84 DPi) since joining IMSA prototype competition in 2017. The Cadillac Racing team now heads to the 74th running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 18-21 in Sebring, Florida.  Peacock (U.S.) and IMSA’s YouTube (not in the U.S.) will broadcast beginning at 10 am ET on Saturday, March 21, and NBCSN will broadcast beginning at 5 pm ET. Peacock (U.S.) and IMSA’s YouTube channel will stream the entirety of the race along with the IMSA Radio broadcast at IMSA.com, Sirius 211/XM 207.

Driver Quotes  No. 31 Cadillac Whelen Jack Aitken: “We had to fight pretty much all the way through the race, and it was not an easy 24-Hour race. Not like some previous years where some things came our way. Couple of setbacks early on and we had to dig deep to get back on the lead lap and get through the field. There were some fantastic stints all the way through the night and the end. To fall just short is a bit heartbreaking. Hopefully this shows the strength of the Whelen Cadillac. We were able to take the challenge to them today and it’s a testament to the boys and girls that got the car on the grid today. Big thanks to them and to Cadillac as a whole. We’re going to keep flighting and get that win someday.” Earl Bamber: “We had a good car and a good team and we knew Porsche was going to be strong at the start of the race and they were going to be our main contender. So yeah, I think it was going to be between the 7, the 6 and ourselves. We came up short by 1.5 seconds, but I think it was an amazing team effort by everyone on Cadillac and Whelen. We had quite a few setbacks and issues in the night and we just kept digging and digging and came home second. Obviously it’s not what we wanted, but we will finish second and take the points.” Frederik Vesti: “It’s one of the first times in my life I’ve been extremely disappointed with a second-place finish. That just says so much about our potential this weekend. But to finish second in a race where we were a lap down, we had few minor issues throughout the race so to finish second is a very big result. Obviously finishing second by 1.5 seconds from P1 is extremely frustrating, but it’s a great start to the season. We can all be proud of everyone on the team and the efforts this weekend. And we’ll come back a do better.” Connor Zilisch: “Yeah, it was a great day. Jack (Aitken) did everything he could there at the end to try and get us the win, but just came up a little bit short. I am so proud of the effort of everyone with Cadillac and Action Express Racing. I had a lot of fun being a part of it and getting to learn from all those guys, my teammates, so yeah just thankful for the opportunity and happy it went well. Second always sucks, but we did everything we could, and we have to be proud of that.”

No. 40 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing Louis Deletraz: “Well, we made it to the end and congratulations to the 31 for the second place and to Cadillac. We made it to the end and no mistakes by the drivers and no mistakes from the team. I think sometime after midnight something broke at the back of the car, to be confirmed, but we lost a lot of pace out of it. I think we were quite good on deg (degradation), but then again when its losing pace, we just didn’t have it. We had good strategy on fuel and its good points on the championship. Looking forward to more and can’t wait to get to Sebring already.” Colton Herta: “Hard fight to the end for us in the 40 car. Was not the race that we wanted, but good points for the full-time guys. We never gave up and tried our hardest, so proud of that and definitely some stuff to look at and get better on for Sebring. Looking forward to that one.” Jordan Taylor: “Yeah, obviously not a great day for the whole team and for us. I think we salvaged sixth place there at the end with a good call on fuel strategy, but overall, disappointed because a couple of times I thought we were in the mix for the race. So, just hopefully we can go to Sebring with a little more pace and win there.”

No. 10 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing Filipe Albuquerque: “What a shame, it’s a long race but for me a very short race because of the fog (overnight), but we still got to P3 and Ricky was looking very very strong. I think we could have battle for something and the pace is better from Wayne Taylor Racing.”  Will Stevens: “A disappointing result, but there are some positives to take away from the week. At times during the race, we had the pace to be up in the standings, but it’s disappointing, not to be at the end to fight for something. I think we made good steps over the winter, and we’ll take some time to digest it and move on to Sebring.” Ricky Taylor: “What a shame. I feel bad because on that last stint, the last thing I did was make a mistake in turn six, but I think we had a really good Cadillac. We were the only ones on new tires and were making some progress and something went wrong. Really unfortunate but I am very proud of the team and the guys and coming here with a second year with Cadillac and I think we were finally doing justice to what the Cadillac GTP can do, so it’s encouraging for the remainder of the year.”

Corvette GT3 teams show promise in Rolex 24 to open season DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 25, 2026) – Four of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs entered for the Rolex 24 At Daytona completed the opening round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship as the Corvette Racing program kicked off its third season of competition. Both Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports and 13 Autosport recorded fourth-place class finishes at the end of a crazy race that featured running in both warm sunshine and cool, gloomy fog.

The No. 4 Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports entry of Tommy Milner, Nicky Catsburg and Nico Varrone just missed the GTD PRO podium in their Corvette Z06 GT3.R, finishing fourth. In GTD, the 13 Autosport team of Matt Bell, Orey Fidani, Lars Kern and Ben Green showed the same performance that netted the team a class victory a year ago but came up just short this year.

Corvette Racing Media Resources Documents | Statistics | Photos | Factory Driver Bios | Chevrolet Newsroom

Both of the Pro-class Corvette GT3s were the forces of the race through the first 20 hours. The pair of yellow Corvettes combined to lead for 319 laps – 160 coming from the No. 3 trio of pole-winner Alexander Sims, Antonio Garcia and Marvin Kirchhöfer. The cars ran in formation for much of the race – before and after a lengthy six-and-a-half, full-course yellow period due to fog – before the race went sideways. It started with a suspension issue for the No. 3 Corvette with a little more than five hours to go that cost the team 46 seconds in its garage. The sister Corvette continued to run at the front as late as two-and-a-half hours to go – due in part to a third-to-first move by Milner – before Varrone was shoved off-track shortly after a restart. That cost the No. 4 team time and track position back to seventh before the drive-back by Catsburg to the end. GTD-class Corvettes also spent time out front of class before misfortune struck each of the customer cars. The 13 Autosport Z06 GT3.R led the GTD race four times for 32 laps in a solid start to its full-season championship push. The team mirrored its strategy to its 2025 victory by having Fidani and Kern drive much of the race’s first half before putting in the team’s two Pro-level drivers to the end. DXDT Racing also led with its No. 36 Corvette with a similar strategy. After Salih Yoluc and Mason Filippi set the stage for most of the early parts, Charlie Eastwood and Scott McLaughlin pushed the DXDT entry to the front for 90 laps before a cracked gearbox ended the team’s day inside the final two hours. New customer team DragonSpeed also had an encouraging early run in its Corvette debut. Giacomo Altoe, Henrik Hedman, Casper Stevenson and Matteo Cairoli ran solidly in the middle of the 21-car pack with their No. 81 Corvette, which was moving up before Cairoli was hit by a prototype car near the five-hour mark. The impact sent Cairoli into the tire barriers as the Corvette sustained left-side damage. Despite losing 15 laps and nearly 25 minutes, the team carried on and used the rest of the race as an extended test session for its new Corvette. The next event for Corvette Racing in IMSA is the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on Saturday, March 21.

SELECT CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R DRIVER QUOTESALEXANDER SIMS, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “One of those that could have been for the whole team. The real shame is that it didn’t just happen to one car; both had issues to compromise the end result. Our Corvettes were working really well. We had decent pace but I don’t know if we would have been able to fight at the front right to the end. It seemed like others seemed to get quite strong at the end. Who knows. It would have been nice to have been in with a chance. The Pratt Miller team did a great job all race. We had flawless pit stops and just the one issue. The guys will look into that and we’ll come back stronger at Sebring.”

MARVIN KIRCHHÖFER, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “First off all, those six hours of full course yellow where I think I did three-and-a-half out of the maximum four was probably one of the most exhausting stints that I’ve ever had. It’s a lot of riding around and trying not to fall asleep. I’m gutted for the team, obviously. Everyone has done an outstanding job and worked very hard the last two weeks. When you lead the race for as long as we did and then have a mechanical issue in the last four or five hours, it’s tough. We were pushing hard along with the No. 4 car, which was always up front as well. The guys would have deserved a decent result here. Still, I enjoyed it. I’m not happy with the outcome but we will next go to the next race at Sebring and make it a good race over there.”

NICKY CATSBURG, NO. 4 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Somehow it all went away for us. Of course there was the incident when the Ferrari smashed us off. I feel like even without that, it was not going to be easy. It seemed like everyone at the end of the race had an extra switch and could power up a bit. But that definitely did not help. Big hats off to the team. The execution was amazing with zero mistakes. The car was good and the setup was good. I think we finished second if you look at the full-season contenders so that’s not too bad. It’s unfortunate because I felt like we were going to come away with a new watch.”

MATT BELL, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Thursday night, it looked like we were going to have a very different event, just to even finish the race flawlessly, let alone be not far up the order. Everybody should be really proud of themselves. I think we had a fourth-place car and we were in the game for a long part of it. There was a little bit of bumping and shoving at the end, but it didn’t change the outcome. Fourth is the maximum we had, and we achieved the maximum result that we were capable of this weekend. Everybody put together a great car. It was as fast as our Corvette was going to go, and we all drove the wheels off it. I am very proud of the team. It’s good to leave thinking you got the best out of your machine. We’ll crack on and try to get the win at Sebring.”

OREY FIDANI, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “After what we went through on Thursday, I couldn’t be prouder of this crew. Everyone dug deep, worked through the night, and we showed up ready to race, that says everything about this team. We were right in the fight all weekend, and while we wanted that podium, a fourth-place finish in the biggest race of the season is still extremely rewarding. Huge credit to the crew and my teammates for their work and dedication. We’ll take what we learned and go to Sebring even hungrier.”

LARS KERN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really, really proud of the team. The car was flawless, I loved it. Everything on our side was good. It just wasn’t in our hands. Honestly, it feels horrible. The race just unfolded in an unlucky way for us. You can’t win this race every year, and unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be for us this time. That’s racing, the racing gods decide if you get to win or not, and this year they decided we weren’t going to.”

BEN GREEN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really happy to finish the Rolex 24 at Daytona with 13 Autosport on my debut at the event. It’s great to make it to the end, and to finish fourth. Of course, we wish we were on the podium, because we were fighting for the win at different points throughout the race. I’m very proud of the effort from the entire team, and it’s been great to have support from GM as well. Our Chevy V8 was singing on the Daytona banking for 24 hours, faultless, and I’m proud of everyone’s work to make that happen.”

CHARLIE EASTWOOD, NO. 36 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Not the finish we hoped for. This was probably one of the best weekends we’ve had together with DXDT. The pace was super-strong from rolling out for the Roar. It was the same in the race. We were keeping our nose clean and sitting in the top-three for a lot of the race and took the lead with about three-and-a-half hours to go before we developed a crack in the gearbox. We’re unsure how it happened, which is just gutting. It’s definitely the best chance I’ve had to win this race. But these things happen in endurance races. The pace was brilliant and Sebring is just around the corner. Hopefully we can go there and collect some trophies.”

GIACOMO ALTOÉ, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I can see the potential of the car and the team. We for sure are still in the learning phases with this car and there is a lot to improve. It was important for us to finish the race and collect all the data possible to analyze it and continue learning. We will build from here.”

CORVETTE RACING AT DAYTONA: Hope to HeartbreakCorvette GT3 teams show promise in Rolex 24 to open season DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 25, 2026) – Four of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs entered for the Rolex 24 At Daytona completed the opening round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship as the Corvette Racing program kicked off its third season of competition. Both Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports and 13 Autosport recorded fourth-place class finishes at the end of a crazy race that featured running in both warm sunshine and cool, gloomy fog.

The No. 4 Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports entry of Tommy Milner, Nicky Catsburg and Nico Varrone just missed the GTD PRO podium in their Corvette Z06 GT3.R, finishing fourth. In GTD, the 13 Autosport team of Matt Bell, Orey Fidani, Lars Kern and Ben Green showed the same performance that netted the team a class victory a year ago but came up just short this year.

Corvette Racing Media Resources Documents | Statistics | Photos | Factory Driver Bios | Chevrolet Newsroom

Both of the Pro-class Corvette GT3s were the forces of the race through the first 20 hours. The pair of yellow Corvettes combined to lead for 319 laps – 160 coming from the No. 3 trio of pole-winner Alexander Sims, Antonio Garcia and Marvin Kirchhöfer. The cars ran in formation for much of the race – before and after a lengthy six-and-a-half, full-course yellow period due to fog – before the race went sideways. It started with a suspension issue for the No. 3 Corvette with a little more than five hours to go that cost the team 46 seconds in its garage. The sister Corvette continued to run at the front as late as two-and-a-half hours to go – due in part to a third-to-first move by Milner – before Varrone was shoved off-track shortly after a restart. That cost the No. 4 team time and track position back to seventh before the drive-back by Catsburg to the end. GTD-class Corvettes also spent time out front of class before misfortune struck each of the customer cars. The 13 Autosport Z06 GT3.R led the GTD race four times for 32 laps in a solid start to its full-season championship push. The team mirrored its strategy to its 2025 victory by having Fidani and Kern drive much of the race’s first half before putting in the team’s two Pro-level drivers to the end. DXDT Racing also led with its No. 36 Corvette with a similar strategy. After Salih Yoluc and Mason Filippi set the stage for most of the early parts, Charlie Eastwood and Scott McLaughlin pushed the DXDT entry to the front for 90 laps before a cracked gearbox ended the team’s day inside the final two hours. New customer team DragonSpeed also had an encouraging early run in its Corvette debut. Giacomo Altoe, Henrik Hedman, Casper Stevenson and Matteo Cairoli ran solidly in the middle of the 21-car pack with their No. 81 Corvette, which was moving up before Cairoli was hit by a prototype car near the five-hour mark. The impact sent Cairoli into the tire barriers as the Corvette sustained left-side damage. Despite losing 15 laps and nearly 25 minutes, the team carried on and used the rest of the race as an extended test session for its new Corvette. The next event for Corvette Racing in IMSA is the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on Saturday, March 21.

SELECT CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R DRIVER QUOTESALEXANDER SIMS, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “One of those that could have been for the whole team. The real shame is that it didn’t just happen to one car; both had issues to compromise the end result. Our Corvettes were working really well. We had decent pace but I don’t know if we would have been able to fight at the front right to the end. It seemed like others seemed to get quite strong at the end. Who knows. It would have been nice to have been in with a chance. The Pratt Miller team did a great job all race. We had flawless pit stops and just the one issue. The guys will look into that and we’ll come back stronger at Sebring.”

MARVIN KIRCHHÖFER, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “First off all, those six hours of full course yellow where I think I did three-and-a-half out of the maximum four was probably one of the most exhausting stints that I’ve ever had. It’s a lot of riding around and trying not to fall asleep. I’m gutted for the team, obviously. Everyone has done an outstanding job and worked very hard the last two weeks. When you lead the race for as long as we did and then have a mechanical issue in the last four or five hours, it’s tough. We were pushing hard along with the No. 4 car, which was always up front as well. The guys would have deserved a decent result here. Still, I enjoyed it. I’m not happy with the outcome but we will next go to the next race at Sebring and make it a good race over there.”

NICKY CATSBURG, NO. 4 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Somehow it all went away for us. Of course there was the incident when the Ferrari smashed us off. I feel like even without that, it was not going to be easy. It seemed like everyone at the end of the race had an extra switch and could power up a bit. But that definitely did not help. Big hats off to the team. The execution was amazing with zero mistakes. The car was good and the setup was good. I think we finished second if you look at the full-season contenders so that’s not too bad. It’s unfortunate because I felt like we were going to come away with a new watch.”

MATT BELL, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Thursday night, it looked like we were going to have a very different event, just to even finish the race flawlessly, let alone be not far up the order. Everybody should be really proud of themselves. I think we had a fourth-place car and we were in the game for a long part of it. There was a little bit of bumping and shoving at the end, but it didn’t change the outcome. Fourth is the maximum we had, and we achieved the maximum result that we were capable of this weekend. Everybody put together a great car. It was as fast as our Corvette was going to go, and we all drove the wheels off it. I am very proud of the team. It’s good to leave thinking you got the best out of your machine. We’ll crack on and try to get the win at Sebring.”

OREY FIDANI, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “After what we went through on Thursday, I couldn’t be prouder of this crew. Everyone dug deep, worked through the night, and we showed up ready to race, that says everything about this team. We were right in the fight all weekend, and while we wanted that podium, a fourth-place finish in the biggest race of the season is still extremely rewarding. Huge credit to the crew and my teammates for their work and dedication. We’ll take what we learned and go to Sebring even hungrier.”

LARS KERN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really, really proud of the team. The car was flawless, I loved it. Everything on our side was good. It just wasn’t in our hands. Honestly, it feels horrible. The race just unfolded in an unlucky way for us. You can’t win this race every year, and unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be for us this time. That’s racing, the racing gods decide if you get to win or not, and this year they decided we weren’t going to.”

BEN GREEN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really happy to finish the Rolex 24 at Daytona with 13 Autosport on my debut at the event. It’s great to make it to the end, and to finish fourth. Of course, we wish we were on the podium, because we were fighting for the win at different points throughout the race. I’m very proud of the effort from the entire team, and it’s been great to have support from GM as well. Our Chevy V8 was singing on the Daytona banking for 24 hours, faultless, and I’m proud of everyone’s work to make that happen.”

CHARLIE EASTWOOD, NO. 36 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Not the finish we hoped for. This was probably one of the best weekends we’ve had together with DXDT. The pace was super-strong from rolling out for the Roar. It was the same in the race. We were keeping our nose clean and sitting in the top-three for a lot of the race and took the lead with about three-and-a-half hours to go before we developed a crack in the gearbox. We’re unsure how it happened, which is just gutting. It’s definitely the best chance I’ve had to win this race. But these things happen in endurance races. The pace was brilliant and Sebring is just around the corner. Hopefully we can go there and collect some trophies.”

GIACOMO ALTOÉ, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I can see the potential of the car and the team. We for sure are still in the learning phases with this car and there is a lot to improve. It was important for us to finish the race and collect all the data possible to analyze it and continue learning. We will build from here.”