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Naval Base Coronado Advance

By
Official Release
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NAVAL BASE CORONADO

Friday, June 19 — NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, 7 p.m. ET (FS1)
Sunday, June 21– NASCAR Cup Series, 4 p.m. ET (PRIME)

This weekend will feature another landmark event for NASCAR as it competes on an active United States military base for the first time. Naval Base Coronado is scheduled to host all three of the sport’s top divisions, highlighted by the NASCAR Cup Series event on Sunday.

BLANEY STREAKING AGAIN

Ryan Blaney’s 10th-place finish on Sunday at Pocono Raceway was his fourth straight top-10 effort and fifth in the last six races. The only race in this recent streak that wasn’t in that category came at Watkins Glen International when he finished 11th. The 2023 Cup Series champion, who has 11 top 10s in 16 races this season, is a Ford-best third in the point standings.

SITTING ON 749

The next Ford win will be its 750th all-time in NASCAR’s top series. Ned Jarrett is Ford’s win leader with 43 while Bill Elliott is second with 40. Shirtless Jimmy Florian scored the Blue Oval’s first series victory when he upset the likes of Lee Petty, Curtis Turner and Joe Weatherly at Dayton Speedway on June 25, 1950. Florian earned his nickname after getting out of his 1950 flathead Ford without a shirt. Overall, 91 drivers have won at least one series race with Ford, including notable drivers Mario Andretti, Dan Gurney, Parnelli Jones, A.J. Foyt, Richard Petty, and Dale Earnhardt.

QUESTION: WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO COURSE?

RYAN BLANEY: “Turn one is pretty high commit, high speed. Turn two is very downhill. And then it gets pretty rough through three, four and the exit of five is super rough. They’ve worked on a couple patches like the railroad tracks and stuff like that. They said they would pave it some to help it out, but it’s gonna be bumpy and it’s gonna be tight. It’s gonna be a lot like Chicago. Chicago was narrow, bumpy, things like that, so we’ve dug into it a good bit the best we can. I’m just looking forward to seeing it all put together. It will be challenging. It’s a big racetrack and something like three-and-a-half miles, so there are a lot of corners to do well in or mess up in, but it’ll be a unique challenge.” DO YOU EXPECT THIS TO BE MORE OF A TRADITIONAL ROAD COURSE FLOW? “I’d say there are more flowy sections of the racetrack than Chicago because Chicago was a lot of 90-degree corners. Here, there are some tighter esses and there’s one flowing ess type situation. Obviously, you’ve got your 90 degrees, but there are only a handful of those, so I think this is gonna be different from Chicago to where it’s not just 90, 90, 90. It might possibly have a little bit more rhythm to it like a more traditional road course.”

JOEY LOGANO: “You would probably look at the closest comparison to racetracks, which is gonna be Chicago Street Course, just as far as bumps and roads. I mean, railroad tracks, that’s a new one to go over. I haven’t had that yet. That’s a new one for me, so it will be like the Fast and Furious out there. It will be kind of cool and I’m excited.” DO YOU EXPECT AN ELEMENT OF MORE TRADITIONAL ROAD COURSE RACING? “I don’t think so. There are some tight spots. There might be one or two flowing corners, but it’s mainly nineties for the most part. There are a couple that flow, but most of them are kind of what Chicago kind of looked like. At the moment, that’s what I’m expecting. When you get out there and you walk the track and you make your first laps, and you’re not gonna have much time to figure things out either. When you talk to other drivers from other forms of motorsports and they hear how little practice we get, and then you put that on a new track and you get that limited amount of practice, they think we’re nuts and it’s because we are, but you’re gonna have to figure it out pretty quick.”

CHRIS BUESCHER: “I think it will be the hardest road race that anybody in this garage has ever run, just from the standpoint there are so many corners. I think we have labeled 16, but if we labeled like some other tracks, it would probably come out to 30. It’s gonna be very difficult. It’s very narrow in places. It’s extremely wide in others, to the point where you’re almost trying to figure out where in the world you should be in that 100-feet of racetrack to set up for a corner. Trying to figure out what our spotters are gonna be able to see and what we’re gonna be left on our own to do. Everybody in this room knows that’s dangerous if you leave it up to the steering wheel holders to decide if we’re clear or not, but it’s gonna be rough in a lot of places. I’ve laughed about it. It’s fitting to be near aircraft carriers. We’re gonna be in the air quite a bit, and I think that it’s rough in a lot of ways. It’s gonna be tricky. It’s gonna be very difficult to go in there and figure out how to get that thing right from the get-go. All of the sim that we’re gonna continue to run and have run already, it’s not gonna be the real thing until you get there. I remember Chicago for the first time. All of the things you were able to do in the sim and knowing there was no penalty. The turn four entry speed that we carried in the simulator and then you get to the racetrack and you’re like, ‘Yeah, I can wreck a race car here if I drive like the sim,’ but I’m telling you right now that’s exactly where we’re gonna be. We’re gonna have places like that, where we get comfortable in the simulator and we’re gonna say, ‘Oh, those bumps aren’t bad. I can drive through it,’ and you’re gonna get to the racetrack and that’s not going to be the case. It’s all we have and it is a very important tool, but it’s not reality at the end of the day and we’re gonna have a lot of learning to do when we do get there.”

TODD GILLILAND: “We’ve been grinding on the San Diego sim and I’m super excited about that. I think from the team side we just started with the Chicago Street Course baseline. San Diego is rough. The whole track kind of reminds me of turn four at the Chicago Street Course, that kind of fast right-hander where it’s super rough and you’re going into the bumps and you’re braking. There are a lot of places like that, so it’s always interesting at this point of my life of just going to a track and not having any idea where the next corner is because we’re very lucky that we know pretty much every single racetrack that we go to now, so it’s a funny feeling taking six laps of just missing a corner. A lot of the chicanes on the backstretch looked similar on our sim, so I kept missing some backstretch chicanes, but I feel pretty confident about it now.” DO YOU EXPECT THE RACING QUALITY TO BE JUST AS CHAOTIC AS CHICAGO? “I don’t know. It’s really hard to say what Chicago raced like because the races have been so chaotic it seems like. I got caught up in that massive wreck and that’s just part of it at these street courses. If you had a spotter that covered every single portion of the racetrack, you would have eight to 10 spotters, so it’s just not really do-able. It’s about paying attention. There are definitely some really, really tight areas in San Diego, but I think overall the whole feel is gonna be way better off going to San Diego after running Chicago a couple of years. It’ll be interesting. You know how we end up, though. We always end up running on top of each other regardless of where we’re at – circle, squiggly circle, no matter what, we’re always running on top of each other.”

FORD’S INAUGURAL RACE WINNERS

This weekend will mark another inaugural race for NASCAR as Naval Base Coronado hosts the Anduril 250 on Sunday afternoon. Ford Racing has won four inaugural events since 2018 when Ryan Blaney captured the first race on the Charlotte Roval. Since then, Joey Logano has put his stamp on three other debut events, capturing the Bristol Dirt Race in 2021, the Clash at the Coliseum in 2022 and the Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway in 2022.

THE FORD FIVE

There are six races remaining in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series regular season and five Ford F-150 drivers are in the top 10 of the point standings. Layne Riggs, who has won two of the last three series races, holds the top spot by 26 points while Front Row Motorsports teammate Chandler Smith is third. The ThorSport trio of Ben Rhodes, Ty Majeski and Jake Garcia are sixth, seventh and 10th. The top 10 in the standings will advance to the seven-race Chase, beginning at Bristol Motor Speedway in September.

RIGGS GOING FOR SECOND STRAIGHT INAUGURAL RACE WIN

This weekend’s race at Naval Base Coronado will be the second inaugural road/street race for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series this season. Layne Riggs scored a win in the first when the circuit debuted on the streets of St. Petersburg in February. The North Carolina native had just enough fuel to beat Ty Majeski, Ben Rhodes and Chandler Smith to the finish line in the Only Bulls Green Flag 150 as Ford swept the top four spots. Those four drivers combined to lead 73-of-80 laps with Riggs leading a race-high 41.

The Ford Mustang® coupe is America’s best-selling sports car and has a global racing presence. With Mustang-based race cars competing in international sports car competition (GT3 and GT4), NASCAR, NHRA, Formula Drift, in Supercars, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and in its own bespoke regional one-make series – Mustang Cup and Mustang Challenge – the platform has an unprecedented global reach. This weekend, 43 Mustang race cars are scheduled to compete across all active disciplines. Learn more about Mustang at www.FordRacing.com.

Spire Motorsports Navy 250 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In 23 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts on road and street courses, Spire Motorsports has earned four top-five and and six top-10 finishes. Connor Zilisch earned the team’s best finish with a second-place result in this year’s race at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International.
  • The Navy 250 will be televised live on FS1 Friday, June 19 beginning at 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 13th of 25 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Connor Mosack – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Connor Mosack will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Friends of Jaclyn Chevrolet Silverado RST in Friday’s inaugural Navy 250 on the streets of San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado.
  • The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for children battling pediatric brain tumors and other childhood cancers and to raise awareness through their Adopt-A-Child, Safe on the Sidelines and Guardian Angel Programs.
  • The 50-lap event will mark Mosack’s fifth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start this season and 10th, overall, with Spire Motorsports. In four previous starts this season, he has earned one top-five and three top-10 finishes.
  • Earlier this season, at the inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Fla.), Mosack started on the pole and controlled the early goings. Unfortunately, heavy damage resulting from contact with another competitor shuffled Mosack down the leaderboard. Still, he managed to recover for a solid 13th-place finish.
  • Last time in the seat of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevy, Mosack earned his third top-10 finish of the season in the DQS Solutions & Staffing 250 powered by Precision Vehicle Logistics at Michigan International Speedway. After qualifying fifth, he rallied from 17th in the closing stages to notch a respectable eighth-place finish.
  • Mosack earned his first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series top-10 finish at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway in May 2024 where he posted an eighth-place result in the North Carolina Education Lottery 200. The Charlotte, N.C., native finished 10th on Charlotte Motor Speedway’s ROVAL configuration last October while competing for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing.
  • The talented road racer has made 44 starts in the CUBE 3 Architecture Trans Am 2 Series, earning two wins, 20 top-five and 26 top-10 finishes, including two third-place efforts in 2026 at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway and Lime Rock Park. The two-time Trans Am Series race winner has claimed a pair victories at Watkins Glen International, earning victory in 2021 and winning from the pole in 2022.
  • Mosack will race Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-071 Friday. This is the same truck Mosack raced at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg and Watkins Glen International this season.
  • Before it was property of Spire Motorsports, chassis SMT-071 saw success as the primary roadcourse truck for Kyle Busch Motorsports. Busch drove it to victory at Sonoma Raceway in June 2022, where he led 45 of the event’s 75 laps, en route to the team’s 95th CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win.

Connor Mosack Quote
What are your thoughts on competing in the inaugural race at Naval Base Coronado?
“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to race in the first-ever street race at Naval Base Coronado. Street courses are one of my favorite types of tracks, and the venue definitely makes it a special one. We’ve had good speed on the road courses this year, they just haven’t gone our way. If we execute a clean day, it will be a good result for us.”

Brian Pattie – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Brian Pattie is the crew chief for Spire Motorsports No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see a host of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel across the 2026 season.
  • Pattie has led the No. 7 team to two wins, five top-five and eight top-10 finishes through the first 12 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races of 2026, posting a steady 10.0 average finish.
  • The Zephyrhill, Fla., native has called 11 road course races in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series with one win, five top-five and seven top-10 finishes. His lone road course victory came at Watkins Glen International in 1999 with Canadian road-racing standout Ron Fellows.
  • Pattie is a 25-year veteran of the sport, 14 of which came in the NASCAR Cup Series. As a crew chief, he has earned six Cup Series wins, 11 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series victories and nine in CRAFTSMAN Truck Series competition.

Justin Marks – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Justin Marks will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Jockey Chevrolet Silverado RST in Friday’s inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at Naval Base Coronado.
  • Founded in 1876 by Rev. Samuel T. Cooper, Jockey, The Original American Underwear Brand®, has delivered feel-good comfort for 150 years. This third-generation, family-owned company operates from Kenosha, Wis., as it has since 1892, and draws on a heritage of quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. Jockey creates elevated essentials with enduring style while committing to making a positive impact on generations of families and communities around the world.
  • Chris Showalter, Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 truck chief, will reach a significant milestone at Naval Base Coronado, marking his 750th CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race. Showalter attended the inaugural Truck Series race at Phoenix Raceway on Feb. 5, 1995, with Liberty Racing’s No. 98 team, where driver Butch Miller finished seventh. “Showie” has been present for every CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race since.
  • Marks will trade his ownership duties for a driver’s suit as he makes his first Truck Series start since July 2022 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in the O’Reilly Auto Parts 150. The Trackhouse Racing team owner started eighth before his day came to an end 18 laps shy of the checkered flag.
  • The 170-mile race will mark Marks’ 40th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start dating to 2007. The St. Louis native has earned two Kennametal Pole Awards at Texas Motor Speedway (2008) and Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway (2011), along with four top-10 finishes, including a pair of career-best eighth-place results at Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway (2007) and Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway (2008).
  • While his lone NASCAR win as a driver came in 2016 at Mid-Ohio in O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition, Marks boasts eight checkered flags in the Rolex Grand-Am Sports Car Series, including a trip to Victory Lane in the GT Class at the 2009 Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway.
  • In addition to his success behind the wheel, Marks has collected more than a dozen wins as a NASCAR Cup Series team owner, in addition to Trackhouse Racing’s 2025 victory in the MotoGP ranks.
  • Marks will race Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-076. The chassis was last piloted by Trackhouse Racing Cup Series driver Connor Zilisch at Watkins Glen. Zilisch led 19 laps en route to a stage win and battled for the checkered flag before ultimately bringing home a runner-up finish.

Justin Marks Quote
How meaningful is it to return to the driver’s seat in a one-off event like this, especially with a partner like Jockey at Naval Base Coronado?
“It’s a unique opportunity to drive in the inaugural Truck Series race at Naval Base Coronado. I enjoy getting behind the wheel every once in a while, and I’m thankful to do it with Spire’s help and with a longtime partner like Jockey. They are celebrating their 150th anniversary and are very supportive of our military which makes this endeavor even more special. There is a lot of excitement surrounding the upcoming race weekend and it’s an honor to be part of it.”

Chad Walter – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Chad Walter is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see multiple all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2026 season.
  • Walter has called 11 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series road-course events. Driver Tyler Ankrum earned Walter’s best result on a road course, a sixth-place result at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in 2020.
  • The veteran NASCAR topkick led former IndyCar standout James Hinchcliffe to a top-10 finish earlier this season in his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Fla.).
  • In 19 starts on road courses atop the pit box in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, the Cornell University graduate has tallied one win, five top fives and seven top 10s. Walter called Ron Fellows’ 2008 win at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Canada. The duo played strategy and elected to stay out as rain was approaching. When heavy rain drenched the track on Lap 48, the race was declared official, awarding Fellows the checkered flag.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

ARCA Menards Series at Berlin Raceway: Herr’s Snacks 200 Entry List, Pre-race Notes, Stats Update

By
Official Release
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THE RACE: Herr’s Snacks 200
THE PLACE: Berlin Raceway
THE DATE: Saturday, June 20, 2026
THE TIME: 6:30 pm ET
TV: FS2, Live

  • ARCA Menards Series at Berlin Raceway: Herr’s Snacks 200 Pre-Race Notes
  • The ARCA Menards Series jumps back to action for its second short track race of the season in Saturday’s Herr’s Snacks 200 at Berlin Raceway. It will be the ninth race of 20 for the ARCA Menards Series in 2026 and the 36th time the series has raced at the uniquely-shaped 0.438-mile oval since the first in 1958.
  • Previous ARCA Menards Series winners at Berlin Raceway include Les Snow (1958), Nelson Stacy (1958), Bob James (2 – 1959), Don White (1960), Harold Smith (1962), Iggy Katona (1964), Andy Hampton (1968), Ramo Stott (1970), Bob Senneker (1973), Bob Keselowski (1986), Frank Kimmel (1999, 2003, 2004), Tim Steele (2000, 2001), Fred Campbell (2002), Joey Miller (2005), Brian Keselowski (2006, 2007), Scott Speed (2008), Justin Lofton (2009), Joey Coulter (2010), Matt Merrell (2011), Chris Buscher (2012), Erik Jones (2013), Grant Enfinger (2014, 2015), Dalton Sargeant (2016), Joe Graf, Jr. (2018), Daniel Dye (2021), Sammy Smith (2022), William Sawalich (2023, 2024), and Treyten Lapcevich (2025).
  • ARCA Menards Series championship points leader Jake Bollman (No. 20 Nitro Motorsports Toyota) leads the series into the Herr’s Snacks 200 at Berlin Raceway with a 27-point advantage over current runner-up Thomas Annunziata (No. 70 JBL Toyota). Bollman, who scored a win in the ARCA Menards West last season at Colorado National Speedway, is still on the hunt for his first ARCA Menards Series victory. Annunziata won last year on the road course at Lime Rock Park. Both will be making their first career appearance at Berlin Raceway.
  • Isabella Robusto (No. 55 Yahoo! Toyota) heads into the summer short track season looking to make up ground in the battle for the ARCA Menards Series championship. She trails the lead by 60 points headed into the Herr’s Snacks 200, but she has a strong short track background and previous experience at Berlin; she finished sixth in this race last year and nine of her 12 career top-five finishes have been on tracks one mile in length or shorter.
  • Max Reaves (No. 18 Cook Out Toyota) finished second at Berlin Raceway in 2025 in his ARCA Menards Series debut. Reaves has yet to visit victory lane in the ARCA Menards Series in 2026 but does have an ARCA Menards East win under his belt this season, winning the race at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway for the second consecutive year. Reaves is the protégé of 2000 NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Bobby Labonte.
  • Taylor Reimer (No. 77 Fre Nicotine Chevrolet) will return to the Pinnacle Racing Group team for her fourth start of the season. Reimer notched her first top-ten finish of the season, sixth, in her last outing at Talladega Superspeedway. The No. 77 team has five top-five finishes this season including a win at Toledo Speedway and runner-up finish at Phoenix Raceway with Tristan McKee and a trio of fifth-place finishes, and the Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole Award last week at Pocono Raceway, with Lanie Buice.
  • For the first time since she joined the PRG team for 2026, Reimer will be the senior of the team’s two drivers. She will be joined by Clarkston, Michigan native Tyler Lupton (No. 28 Pinnacle Racing Group Chevrolet), who will be making his ARCA Menards Series debut in the Herr’s Snacks 200.
  • Will Robinson (No. 25 Nitro Motorsports Toyota) will also make his ARCA Menards Series debut on Saturday. Robinson, a member of the Nitro Motorsports TA2 program, has two previous ARCA Menards West appearances this season with a best finish of 13th at Colorado National Speedway.
  • Willie Mullins (No. 3 CW Metals / Bugsy’s Repair Ford) will make his first start of the season since he finished 17th in the season opener at Daytona International Speedway. Mullins finished tenth at Berlin last year, his only previous start at the track.
  • Sawyer, Michigan native Matt Kemp (No. 11 Faith Heating & Air Ford) will make his fourth career appearance at Berlin. He finished a career-best ninth last year, his first and to date only top-ten finish.
  • Zachary Tinkle (No. 53 Racing for Rescues / Zachary Tinkle Foundation Toyota) makes his return to the ARCA Menards Series in his first start as an owner / driver. Tinkle has three previous Berlin starts with a best finish of ninth in 2023.
  • There are two scheduled race breaks, at or near laps 75 and 125. The teams are allotted three full sets of tires, 12 total, to use throughout the day as they see fit.
  • Should the race be extended into overtime, there will be unlimited attempts at a two-lap “green, white, checkered” finished. If the caution is displayed after the white flag is shown, there will be unlimited attempts at a one-lap “green and white together” finish.
  • Brian Campbell holds the ARCA Menards Series track qualifying record at Berlin Raceway, set in 2010, at 15.014 seconds / 105.018 miles per hour.
  • Mett Merrell holds the 200-lap ARCA Menards Series track race record at Berlin Raceway, set in 2011, at 1:10:21 / 85.272 miles per hour.
  • The Herr’s Snacks 200 is set for 6:30 pm ET on Saturday, June 20. The race will be televised live on FS2. Live timing & scoring data and live race audio will be available on ARCARacing.com; for up-to-the-minute updates please follow @ARCA_Racing on X (formerly known as Twitter).

About ARCA 
The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), founded in 1953 by John and Mildred Marcum in Toledo, Ohio, and acquired by NASCAR in April 2018, is the leading grassroots stock car sanctioning body in the United States. Bridging the gap between NASCAR’s top three national touring series and weekly and regional tour racing all across the country, the organization sanctions over 100 races per year in the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, ASA STARS National Tour, ASA CRA Super Series, ASA Midwest Tour, ASA Southern Super Series plus weekly racing at Toledo and Flat Rock Speedways. For more information about ARCA visit www.arcaracing.com, or follow ARCA on Facebook (@ARCARacing) and Twitter (@ARCA_Racing). 

About Menards
A family-owned and run company started in 1958, Menards is recognized as the retail home center leader of the Midwest with 236 stores in 15 states.  Menards is truly a one-stop shop for all of your home improvement needs featuring a full-service lumberyard and everything you need to plan a renovation or build a home, garage, cabin, shed, deck, fence or post frame building.  You’ll find a large selection of lumber, roofing, siding, construction blocks, trusses, doors and windows, plus cabinets, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint, plumbing supplies and more.  To complete the job, Menards has quality hand tools, power tools, fasteners, electrical tools plus storage options and supplies for everyone from the weekend warrior to the pro!
 
Menards has what you need to complete your outdoor projects and keep your yard in tip-top shape including mowers, trimmers, blowers, pressure washers and more, plus a beautiful garden center stocked with plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping tools, grass seed, fertilizer options, outdoor décor and patio furniture.  Menards also has everyday essentials like health & beauty products, housewares, pet and wildlife supplies, automotive items and even groceries.  And at Christmas, an Enchanted Forest display area with impressive trees, lighting, decorations, ornaments, inflatables and more. 
Menards is known for friendly Customer Service and as the place to “Save Big Money” with low prices every day, and sales too!  For more information, please visit Menards.com to learn about our store locations, offerings and services.

Spire Motorsports Anduril 250 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In 82 NASCAR Cup Series starts on road and street courses, Spire Motorsports has seven top-five and nine top-10 finishes, with a best result of second earned by Michael McDowell in this year’s event at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International. Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet ZL1s in the Cup Series for Daniel Suárez, McDowell and Carson Hocevar, respectively.
  • The Anduril 250 at Naval Base Coronado will be televised live on Prime Sunday, June 21 beginning at 4 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 17th of 36 points-paying races on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule will also be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Daniel Suárez – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Daniel Suárez and Spire Motorsports will take part in a historic event Sunday as the Monterrey, Mexico native pilots the No. 7 Freeway Insurance Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series inaugural Anduril 250 at Naval Base Coronado.
  • The No. 7 Freeway Chevrolet’s C-post will recognize and honor Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCSTC) which provides the United States Navy and U.S. allies with highly trained warfighters to maintain, operate, and tactically employ surface combat systems across the spectrum of operations. SCSTC provides platform, baseline and billet specific maritime warfare training to surface warfare officers and other naval officers assigned to surface ships. Each training pipeline is tailored to the officer’s next operational assignment and primarily delivered during PCS transition to sea duty. The series of courses is designed to provide a technical foundation and the tactical application commensurate to the billet and anticipated shipboard watchstanding duties. SCSTC prepares enlisted Sailors to operate, maintain and tactically employ sensors, weapons, communications, and combat systems. This training is delivered throughout a career for eight enlisted ratings: Fire Controlman, Fire Controlman Aegis, Electronic Technician, Interior Communication, Sonar Technician (Surface), Gunner’s Mate, Mineman, and Operations Specialist. Training commences at “A” and “C” Schools and follow-on courses taught at SCSTC learning sites and detachments in each homeport.
  • Freeway Insurance was established in 1987. Freeway Insurance is one of the largest and fastest-growing personal lines insurance brokers in the United States, offering coverage through a “click, call, or come in” approach that connects customers nationwide. The company continually researches, grows, and diversifies its product offerings to stay responsive to the evolving insurance market. Freeway provides a wide range of options—from basic to premium coverage—in auto, truck, commercial vehicle, homeowners, renters, small business, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, fire, and flood insurance. In 2008, Freeway Insurance became part of Confie, the nation’s leading personal lines insurance distribution company. Customers can access Freeway Insurance through neighborhood offices, online at www.freeway.com, or by calling (800) 300-0227.
  • Suárez owns 42 starts between roadcourse and street circuits where he’s notched one win, six top fives, four top 10s and led a total of 85 laps. Over the past decade between both types of configurations, he has posted an average starting position of 12.25 and an average finish of 21.05.
  • Suárez captured his first NASCAR Cup Series victory in his 195th start at Sonoma Raceway in 2022, becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win a Cup Series race after leading a race-high 47 of 110 laps, winning by nearly four seconds.
  • San Diego marks the third of four non-oval races on the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule. Suárez finished 25th at Circuit of the Americas and followed it up with a 13th-place finish at Watkins Glen International.
  • After gaining one position in the standings following last weekend’s race at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway, the Monterrey, Mexico native now ranks eighth in the NASCAR Cup Series standings with 450 points through 16 races, closing to within 11 points of seventh place.
  • Last Sunday at Pocono Raceway, Suárez earned his 14th top-20 finish through the first 16 points-paying races of the NASCAR Cup Series season. He started third and finished sixth in Stage 1 and eighth in Stage 2 to collect a total of eight additional stage points on the day. The No. 7 team pitted during a Lap-106 caution and conserved fuel over the final 54 laps to secure a respectable 13th-place effort.
  • Suárez won the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series’ race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, on June 14, 2025, driving from the back of the field in a backup car to earn a dramatic home-country victory.
  • The 2026 Coca-Cola 600 winner is a veteran of 339 NASCAR Cup Series starts and has notched three wins, 26 top fives and 80 top-10s in NASCAR’s premier division. Suarez has led 945 laps and earned three poles since 2017.

Daniel Suárez Quote
The San Diego race is one of the most unique events on the NASCAR schedule. What excites you most about racing on a Navy base and being part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration?
“I think it’s going to be very special. Racing on a Navy base is something completely different than anything we’ve done before, and that’s what makes it so exciting. It’s honestly hard to describe how unique this is—being surrounded by so much history and by people who dedicate their lives to serving our country. As someone who wasn’t born in the United States but has been given so many opportunities here, being part of the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary means a lot to me, personally. We have a chance to bring NASCAR to an incredible venue, honor the men and women who serve, and create something fans will remember for a long time. I think it’s going to be an amazing weekend, and I’m very proud and grateful to be a part of it.”

Ryan Sparks – Crew Chief, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Ryan Sparks is the Crew Chief of Spire Motorsports No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Sparks has called 218 NASCAR Cup Series races since making his crew chief debut in 2020 and has recorded one victory, six top-five and 15 top-10 finishes. Sparks earned his first career NASCAR Cup Series win at this year’s the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Since 2020, he has called 32 road and street course races, with his strongest result coming in 2024 when he led former driver Corey LaJoie to an eighth-place finish at Watkins Glen International.
  • Sparks joined Spire Motorsports in 2021, where he served as both Crew Chief and Competition Director, leading the organization’s competitive and technical efforts. In 2026, Sparks serves in a singular role as crew chief for Daniel Suárez. He brings more than a decade of experience across all three national series, highlighted by 13 seasons at Richard Childress Racing and contributions to title-winning campaigns in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (2011) and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (2013).

Michael McDowell – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Defense Unicorns Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series’ Anduril 250 at Naval Base Coronado.
  • Defense Unicorns is a veteran-owned defense technology company founded in 2021 by Rob Slaughter, Jeff McCoy, and Andrew Greene to make software a strategic deterrent for the U.S. Department of War. The company builds open-source, airgap-native technologies that enable the secure development, delivery, and sustainment of mission software across cloud, on-premises, and tactical edge environments. Defense Unicorns’ technology is trusted by the operators of some of the most critical systems in the world, including the U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and Space Force.
  • The Defense Unicorns livery will feature “Doug the Defense Unicorn” in several different placements onboard the No. 71 Machine and McDowell’s fire suit.
  • Squadron VRM-50 will be featured on the No. 71 Defense Unicorns Chevrolet as McDowell and the Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron look to make their first trip to Victory Lane in 2026.
  • VRM-50 is a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the CMV-22B Osprey aircraft with a mission of delivering the best pilots and aircrew to the fleet; each skillfully trained to provide timely, persistent air logistics for sustained carrier strike group lethality, anywhere in the world.
  • In the Series most recent street race, contested last season in Chicago, McDowell qualified second and led 31 laps prior to a mechanical failure on lap 32. The team went behind the wall to make repairs, and what looked like to be a promising day ended in a disappointing 32nd-place finish.
  • The 41-year-old driver has claimed one win, nine top five, and 18 top-10 finishes between road and street course races in NASCAR’s premier division.
  • McDowell’s most recent win came on the road course configuration of Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) in 2023. His Travis Peterson-led team paced the field for 54 of 82 laps en route to his second win on NASCAR’s senior circuit.
  • The former open-wheel racer has 52 Cup Series attempts on road courses, earning an average start of 16.7 paired with an average finish of 19.1, his best of any track configuration with a minimum of 50 attempts.
  • In his three attempts at the Chicago Street Course, the two-time Cup Series winner earned an average start of 3.7, paired with an average finish of 14.7, highlighted by only one finish outside of the top 10.
  • In 2016, McDowell qualified Richard Childress Racing’s No. 2 Chevrolet second at Road America and led 24 of 48 laps en route to his lone win in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
  • The 2021 Daytona 500 Champion will have a familiar voice on the spotter stand this week where McDowell’s cousin, Jason Noll, will assist primary spotter Michael Fisher during the Cup Series’ inaugural visit to Naval Base Coronado.
  • Last week at Pocono Raceway, McDowell qualified 13th, struggled with balance throughout the day, but held on for a respectable 17th-place finish.
  • Across his last five points-paying races, the 19-year Cup Series veteran holds an average finish of 14.8, while pacing the field two times for eight laps (Watkins Glen/Charlotte).
  • After 16 points-paying races on the 2026 calendar, McDowell is currently 20th in the Cup Series standings. With 10 races remaining before NASCAR’s “Chase” format begins to determine this year’s champion, the Glendale, Ariz., native sits just 49 points below the cutline on the strength of two top-five and three top-10 finishes.

Michael McDowell Quote
What do you think San Diego is going to race like? Have you been able to get some SIM laps in?
“It’s going to be fun, obviously a really cool setting at Naval Base Coronado. We had the chance to get some laps in on the simulator over the last few weeks, which has been helpful in getting acclimated to a new track. It’s a street course, so it is going to have a lot of character. Obviously, it’s going to be a fun weekend, and we appreciate the men and women who have given us the opportunity and hospitality to doing something that we haven’t done before, especially Squadron VRM-50. The track itself will have a lot of similar characteristics to Chicago, tight, twisty, technical, with high speeds, and some bumpy sections, transitioning from streets to an airfield, with a lot of different textures and different aggregates. It’s going to be exciting. There will be tight, blind corners, but we look at this weekend as a great opportunity for us. I am ready to get out there, have a good day with Defense Unicorns, pick up a few points on The Chase cutline, and hopefully celebrate in Victory Lane.”

Travis Peterson – Crew Chief, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Travis Peterson is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • The West Bend, Wis., native’s lone Cup Series triumph came in 2023 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s road course where he guided McDowell to a dominating victory.
  • The 35-year-old has called 129 races in NASCAR’s premier series, where he’s secured eight pole awards, one win, nine top fives and 26 top 10s.

Carson Hocevar – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Carson Hocevar will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Spectrum Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s inaugural Anduril 250 at Naval Base Coronado.
  • Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company available to 58 million homes and small to large businesses across 41 states. Founded in 1993, Charter has evolved from providing cable TV to streaming, and from high-speed Internet to a converged broadband, WiFi and mobile experience. Over the Spectrum Fiber Broadband Network and supported by our 100 percent U.S.-based employees, the Company offers Seamless Connectivity and Entertainment with Spectrum Internet®, Mobile, TV and Voice products. More information can be found at corporate.charter.com.
  • Naval Base Coronado’s Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape (SERE) program will be showcased aboard Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevy this weekend. The program is a highly demanding U.S. military training program designed to prepare service members, pilots, and special operators for the worst-case scenarios of being isolated behind enemy lines or captured as a prisoner of war (POW).
  • The Spectrum Chevrolet will sport a unique look this weekend. Inspired by the U.S. Navy’s CMV-22B Osprey, a specialized variant of the tiltrotor aircraft primarily completing carrier onboard deliveries, the No. 77 features a predominantly gray design with white and black accents to match the aircraft.
  • Through 16 races, the Portage, Mich., native sits ninth in points, just one marker out of eighth. His one win, four top fives, seven top 10s, 449 points scored, average starting position of 11.9 and 14.6 average finish are all career highs through the first 15 points-paying races of the season. The team’s average starting position has improved by nearly seven spots while its average finish is over eight positions better compared to this point in 2025.
  • Hocevar has made two Cup Series starts on street courses, both at the Chicago Street Race where he earned a best finish of 24th in 2024.
  • Last Sunday at Pocono Raceway, the 23-year-old driver fought handling woes throughout the Final Stage and was ultimately credited with a 20th-place finish.
  • The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year registered his first-career victory earlier this season at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. He survived a late-race restart with three laps remaining with help from his Chevrolet teammates and brought home the checkered flag. Hocevar became the 13th driver to earn his inaugural series victory at Talladega, and registered Spire Motorsports’ first win since the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway with driver Justin Haley.

Carson Hocevar Quotes
What are you expecting this weekend?
“I think it is going to be really cool. The optics are going to be awesome. The racing side is a bit unknown, but I think it’s a good thing that it is unknown for everyone. It is going to come down to who adapts the quickest. I think a lot of people are going to make mistakes, and hopefully I’m not one of them. It will be different for sure.”

How do you attack street courses given the small margin for error?
“I enjoy how taxing it is. The less time I have to think, the better it is for me. On street courses, you are locked in on the next corner as soon as you come off the last one. Everything builds off the last and you’re always close to a wall. I enjoy it more than traditional road courses where you have the longer straightaways and you are constantly hopping the curbs. The more I can keep myself busy, the better.”

Luke Lambert – Crew Chief, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Luke Lambert is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Lambert is in his third season at Spire Motorsports and fourth with driver Carson Hocevar. The duo has logged two pole awards, one win, seven top-five and 22 top-10 finishes in 96 races together.
  • The 16-year veteran crew chief has called 44 NASCAR Cup Series road and street course races, earning a best finish of third at Watkins Glen with Hocevar in 2024.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss, earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

PRO STOCK STARS READY FOR GETTRX PRO STOCK ALL-STAR CALLOUT AT NORWALK’S SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA NATIONALS

By
Official Release
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NORWALK, Ohio (June 16, 2026) – This year’s Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park will again see an extra level of excitement when the stars of the Pro Stock class face off in the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout on Saturday, June 27.

The field is officially set for the unique callout-style race, pitting the top eight Pro Stock drivers against each other with bonus purse and bragging rights on the line in Norwalk, which marks the halfway point of the 2026 Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

Matt Hartford, the most recent Pro Stock race winner on tour, claimed last year’s GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout title by defeating Greg Anderson, who won the event in 2024. With three victories this season, Hartford will look to build on his recent success and become the first two-time winner of the specialty event.

“There’s a thing called momentum,” Hartford said after Sunday’s win in Bristol. “We’re rolling into Norwalk next week. We have the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout there. I’m really looking forward to a nice, humid normal race there because our car’s pretty happy in the conditions we had in Bristol.”

The NHRA Pro Stock field is divided between two powerhouse camps: KB Titan Racing, led by six-time champ Anderson and Elite Motorsports, also led by six-time champ Erica Enders. With four drivers from each team in the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout, the longtime rivalry creates another epic showdown for the one-day bonus race.

Anderson is the top pick and will have his pick of the field, while his teammate, reigning world champion Dallas Glenn, will have the second pick, followed by Eric Latino, Hartford, Greg Stanfield, Enders, Aaron Stanfield and Jeg Coughlin.

The GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout kicks off on Friday, June 26 at 3 p.m., where the drivers will make their first-round picks for the Saturday showdown. The first round of the Callout is Saturday, June 27 at 11:30 a.m., followed by the semifinals at 1:15 p.m. The finals will take place at 4 p.m., with the winner set to collect a big check, specialty trophy and championship belt.

Hartford and Anderson will try to become the first multi-time Callout winner, while the rest of the field is after a first-time win in the unique event.

Final 2026 NHRA GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout Field

  1. Greg Anderson
  2. Dallas Glenn
  3. Eric Latino
  4. Matt Hartford
  5. Greg Stanfield
  6. Erica Enders
  7. Aaron Stanfield
  8. Jeg Coughlin

Last year, Justin Ashley (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Cory Reed (Pro Stock) and John Hall (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FOX, with qualifying and the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout coverage on FS1 and eliminations on FOX at 5:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 28.

The 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals will see the continuation of NHRA’s yearlong celebration of its 75th anniversary. It is the 10th of 20 events during the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and will feature several highlights throughout the race weekend:

  • A celebration of NHRA legend Connie Kalitta, and longtime NHRA driver and tuner Jim Head. There will also be a tribute to Scott Kalitta with reigning world champion Doug Kalitta.
  • A spectacular fireworks display following Friday night qualifying.
  • A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and much more.

Along with the Callout, fans can look forward to seeing the biggest stars of the NHRA during an action-packed weekend that also features two rounds of qualifying on Friday – including a can’t-miss night session – two rounds of qualifying and the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday, and eliminations on Sunday.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 5 and 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, June 26, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, June 27 at 12 and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations will begin at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, June 28.

Television coverage begins Sunday, June 28 and includes the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout on FS1 at 11:00 a.m., leading into qualifying coverage at 12 p.m. Elimination coverage kicks off at 5:30 p.m. on FOX.

To purchase tickets to Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com.

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

CHRIS BUESCHER SIGNS MULTIYEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION WITH RFK RACING

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Official Release
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Multiyear Extension Keeps Homegrown Talent Behind the Wheel of the No. 17 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

CONCORD, N.C. (June 16, 2026) – Roush Fenway Keselowski (RFK) Racing announced today that Chris Buescher, a 17-year member of the RFK Racing family, has signed a multiyear contract extension to remain the driver of the No. 17 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series.

The extension continues a relationship that began nearly two decades ago when Buescher, only a teenager at the time, worked in the race shop and helped with pit practice. By 2009 he traded a wrench for a helmet, becoming part of the team’s driver development program. Buescher quickly established himself as a winner, claiming the 2012 ARCA and 2015 Xfinity Series Championships driving cars owned by Jack Roush and Fenway Sports Group. Buescher credits his unwavering belief in his team and the bright future of RFK Racing for his easy decision to stay home.

“RFK Racing has been home for most of my racing career, and that’s something I don’t take for granted,” Buescher said. “I’ve grown up with this organization, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together over the last several years. The direction we’re heading, the people we have in place, and the commitment throughout the company make me excited about the future. I’m grateful to Mr. Jack, Brad, Fenway Sports Group and everyone at RFK Racing for their belief in me. I’m looking forward to continuing to chase wins and championships together.”

Buescher is now in his 11th full-time NASCAR Cup Series season. With six wins at the sport’s highest level, he has established himself as one of the garage’s most respected and versatile competitors who has won on short tracks, superspeedways and road courses.

His rise with RFK Racing reached new heights in 2023 when he captured three victories in a five-race stretch at Richmond, Michigan and Daytona, advancing to the Round of 12 in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs and recording a career-best seventh-place finish in the championship standings. The breakout campaign earned him NASCAR’s Most Improved Driver honor as voted on by fans.

Buescher followed that effort with another memorable season in 2024, highlighted by a dramatic victory at Watkins Glen International, where he executed a last-lap pass to secure his first career road-course win. In 2025, he continued to showcase his trademark consistency, posting a 14.3 average finish – sixth-best among all Cup Series drivers.

“Chris has been part of this organization for most of his professional career, and there is a tremendous amount of pride in seeing what he has become,” said team founder and co-owner Jack Roush. “He is an exceptional driver, but just as importantly, he is the kind of person who makes our organization stronger. His work ethic, intelligence and commitment to our success have earned the respect of everyone at RFK Racing, and we’re proud that his story with us will continue.”

“Chris is everything you want in a race car driver and teammate,” added Brad Keselowski, co-owner and driver at RFK Racing. “His talent behind the wheel speaks for itself, but what really separates him is his professionalism, preparation and commitment to making everyone around him better. He’s been instrumental in the progress we’ve made as an organization, and we’re excited to continue building toward our goals together.”

The extension represents another significant investment in RFK Racing’s future. With Buescher currently 7th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings and the No. 17 team firmly established as a championship contender, the agreement secures one of the team’s foundational leaders for years to come.

“Chris has been a driving force behind progress we’ve made as an organization over the last several seasons,” said RFK Racing President Chip Bowers. “He is one of the most respected competitors in our sport; his consistency, leadership, and commitment to excellence help set the standard for the organization. Securing Chris for the long term reinforces our belief in where this organization is headed and our commitment to competing for race wins and championships for years to come.”

This extension underscores RFK Racing’s mantra of being bold, aggressive, and committed as the team continues to invest in its future and strengthen its standing as one of NASCAR’s premier organizations. With Buescher, Keselowski and Ryan Preece leading its efforts on track, RFK Racing remains focused on relentlessly competing for the NASCAR Cup Series championship.

About RFK Racing 

RFK Racing, in its 39th season in 2026, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, along with NASCAR Champion, Brad Keselowski, and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988, and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass three hundred wins and capturing eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, is the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Champion. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit https://www.rfkracing.com/ and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB ANNOUNCES MAYER AS OFFICIAL PARTNER FOR 2027 NASCAR CUP SERIES SEASON

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Official Release
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Mayer will serve as primary partner on the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek at Talladega Superspeedway

STATESVILLE, N.C. (June 16, 2026) – LEGACY MOTOR CLUB announced today a new partnership with Mayer, a leading distributor of electrical products and solutions, for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season. The partnership builds on LEGACY’s existing relationship with Rexel USA, Mayer’s parent company, bringing another trusted brand from the Rexel family into the fold.

Mayer will serve as the primary partner on the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE — driven by John Hunter Nemechek — at Talladega Superspeedway in October 2027. The race holds special significance for Mayer, whose roots run deep in the surrounding region.

“Mayer has spent nearly a century earning the trust of its customers, and that kind of track record means something,” said Jimmie Johnson, co-owner of LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. “Bringing them to Talladega — one of the most storied tracks in this sport — is the right stage for this partnership. We’re proud to have Mayer on the No. 42 and excited to keep building on what we’ve already started with the Rexel family.”

Mayer has served contractors, industrial customers, and utility clients across the Southeast for nearly 100 years. The announcement marks the latest step in the growing relationship between LEGACY MOTOR CLUB and Rexel USA, which first came together ahead of the 2026 season.

“This is a natural extension of our partnership with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB,” said Roger Little, CEO, Rexel USA. “Mayer has nearly 100 years of being the first choice for its customers and bringing it to the track is a great way to showcase a trusted brand that continues to grow and expand.”

“Talladega is an iconic track just down the road from Mayer’s roots, which makes this especially meaningful for our team,” said Pat Daley, President, Mayer. “Seeing the Mayer and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB car race there with John Hunter Nemechek behind the wheel is a real source of pride and a great way to showcase the strength and momentum of the Mayer brand.”

“Talladega brings out the best in everybody, and having a brand like Mayer on the car there makes it even more special,” said John Hunter Nemechek. “Mayer has been around for a long time and earned everything they have. To represent that kind of brand at a track with that kind of history — that’s something I’m genuinely proud of.”

The partnership will come to life through primary placement on the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE at Talladega Superspeedway, with additional branded content across LEGACY MOTOR CLUB’s platforms throughout the season.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: (LEGACY MC) is a premier auto racing organization owned by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmie Johnson and Knighthead Capital Management, LLC. Drawing from a rich tradition of success, LEGACY MC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and setting new standards of excellence. The CLUB competes under the Toyota Racing banner in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE piloted by Erik Jones and the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE driven by John Hunter Nemechek. Johnson also races on a limited basis in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. With NASCAR legend and Hall of Famer Richard Petty, “The King”, serving as CLUB Ambassador, LEGACY MC blends timeless racing traditions with a new forward-thinking vision. As an inclusive community for motorsport enthusiasts, LEGACY MC honors both its storied past and the promising future of its members, always striving for victory and championship glory at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition.

ABOUT MAYER: Mayer, a Rexel USA banner company, is one of the nation’s leading distributors of electrical products and equipment, including connected solutions, lighting, datacom technologies, power distribution, and automation and controls systems. With more than 60 branches in the United States, Mayer serves a broad range of customers including contractors, industrial customers, OEMs, integrators, healthcare organizations, institutions, data centers, government entities, utility providers, commercial businesses and residential customers.

Classic Collision Returns To Spire Motorsports For Two Races In 2026

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (June 15, 2026) – Classic Collision, one of the largest privately held auto body repair providers in the U.S., will return to Spire Motorsports in 2026 and serve as the primary sponsor aboard Carson Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for pair of NASCAR Cup Series races including the division’s annual June visit to Sonoma Calif., and October’s trip to Phoenix Raceway.

With a skilled team and unwavering standards, Classic Collison delivers exceptional service to its customers and partners. As one of the largest privately held auto body repair providers in the U.S., Classic Collision operates 350 state-of-the-art facilities nationwide.

Last October, Hocevar showcased a Classic Collision Paint Scheme at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and consistently raced inside the top 15 for much of the 400-mile affair until being collected in a multi-car incident in the late goings, leaving him deep in the field when the checkered flag flew.

Hocevar registered his first-career NASCAR Cup Series victory this April at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway where he survived a host of cautions and a late-race restart with just three laps remaining to collect the checkered flag. He became the 13th driver to earn his inaugural Cup Series win at the famed 2.66-mile tri-oval and registered Spire Motorsports’ first victory since the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Through 16 races, the 23-year-old driver sits ninth in points, just one marker behind Spire Motorsports teammate Daniel Suárez in eighth. His one win, four top fives, seven top 10s, 450 points scored, average starting position of 11.9 and 14.6 average finish are all career highs through the first 16 points-paying races of the 2026 season.

“I am excited to run it back with Classic Collision,” said Hocevar. “I have grown really close with Toan, and everyone from Classic Collision treats me like family. I’m thrilled to see the relationship grow and to fly those colors at Sonoma and Phoenix. It’s been an incredible start to the season for Spire Motorsports and our No. 77 team. Hopefully, we can reward everyone at Classic Collision with a couple good runs.”

Hocevar has a pair of starts in NASCAR’s premier division at Sonoma Raceway where he logged a venue-best 17th-place finish during his 2024 rookie-of-the-year campaign. He won the pole for the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series’ 2022 visit to the popular northern California roadcourse and notched a respectable sixth-place finish.

Phoenix has proven to be a bit of an Achilles Heel for the third-year Cup Series regular where he looks to improve upon his 22.7 average finish.

“The road courses haven’t been my strongest, but we ran decent last year and I’ve been working on improving my skills for this type of race,” added Hocevar. “Hopefully, we can give everyone at Classic Collision a great showing at both Sonoma and Phoenix and can bring home the results to go with it.”

The NASCAR Cup Series annual visit to Somona Raceway will be televised live on TNT, Sunday, June 28 beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 18th of 36 points-paying races on the 2026 calendar will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

About Classic Collision …
Classic Collision, founded in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia, is built on a foundation of quality, integrity, and honesty. With a skilled team and unwavering standards, Classic Collison delivers exceptional service to its customers and partners. As one of the largest privately held auto body repair providers in the U.S., Classic Collision operates 350 state-of-the-art facilities nationwide. For over 40 years, safety has been our top priority. Our highly trained technicians, cutting-edge equipment, and manufacturer certifications make us a leader in collision repair.

Classic Collision is always seeking opportunities to expand its network by adding new collision repair locations and automotive glass businesses. We are also exploring expansion into new markets across the U.S. If you’re considering selling your business, visit www.classiccollision.com/join/ to start a confidential discussion today.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.  

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

Why Flexibility Is Driving the Modern Automotive Market

By
SM
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Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

The automotive industry has always evolved alongside changing consumer needs, but few trends have become as influential in recent years as flexibility.

Whether it’s the way people finance vehicles, purchase commercial vans, or manage their transportation requirements, today’s buyers are looking for solutions that fit their individual circumstances rather than one-size-fits-all options.

Economic pressures, changing working patterns and advancements in digital technology have all contributed to a shift in consumer expectations. As a result, dealerships and finance providers are adapting to meet the demands of a more diverse and informed market.

From flexible finance solutions to growing demand for commercial vehicles, the automotive sector is entering a new era where accessibility and convenience are becoming key drivers of purchasing decisions.

The Changing Face of Vehicle Ownership

Vehicle ownership looks very different today than it did a decade ago.

Consumers now have access to more information than ever before. Online vehicle marketplaces, finance comparison tools and digital dealership platforms allow buyers to research options thoroughly before making a purchase.

At the same time, financial circumstances vary significantly between individuals. While some buyers can purchase vehicles outright, many rely on finance solutions to spread costs and access vehicles that meet their needs.

This has led to growing demand for finance products that accommodate a wider range of customer circumstances.

Rather than focusing solely on credit scores, many lenders now assess affordability and individual situations more holistically, helping more people access vehicle finance opportunities.

Why Vehicle Finance Continues to Grow

Finance has become one of the most important parts of the modern automotive industry.

For many buyers, financing allows them to access newer, safer and more reliable vehicles without requiring a large upfront investment.

The flexibility offered by finance agreements enables customers to manage costs through fixed monthly payments while choosing a vehicle that suits their lifestyle or business requirements.

Importantly, finance solutions are becoming increasingly accessible to a broader range of customers.

Many dealerships now offer bad credit car finance options designed to help individuals who may have experienced financial difficulties in the past. Rather than automatically excluding applicants based on previous credit challenges, specialist lenders often consider a range of factors when assessing eligibility.

This approach helps ensure that vehicle ownership remains achievable for more people while supporting responsible lending practices.

Commercial Vehicles Are Powering Business Growth

While much attention is often focused on passenger vehicles, the commercial vehicle market plays an equally important role in the UK’s automotive sector.

Tradespeople, delivery businesses, contractors and service providers all rely on vans to keep their operations running efficiently.

In recent years, demand for quality used commercial vehicles has remained strong as businesses seek cost-effective ways to expand or replace existing fleet vehicles.

Many small businesses prefer purchasing used vans due to the lower initial investment while still benefiting from modern safety features, fuel efficiency improvements and advanced technology.

For growing businesses, finding the right vehicle can have a direct impact on productivity, operational costs and customer service.

Regional Dealers Continue to Play a Key Role

Despite the growth of online vehicle marketplaces, regional dealerships remain a vital part of the automotive landscape.

Local dealers often provide valuable expertise, personalised service and in-depth knowledge of the vehicles most commonly required by customers in their area.

For commercial vehicle buyers, working with a specialist dealership can offer additional benefits, including tailored advice and access to stock that aligns with specific business needs.

Businesses searching for vans for sale in Lincoln, for example, often value dealerships that understand the needs of local tradespeople, agricultural businesses and commercial operators.

This combination of local knowledge and digital accessibility is helping many independent dealerships compete effectively against larger national retailers.

Technology Is Making the Process Easier

Technology continues to simplify both vehicle purchasing and finance applications.

Modern dealerships now offer:

  • Online vehicle reservations
  • Digital finance applications
  • Soft credit searches
  • Remote vehicle viewings
  • Live chat support
  • Home delivery services

These innovations help reduce friction throughout the buying process while allowing customers to make informed decisions from the comfort of their own homes.

For commercial buyers who may have limited time available during working hours, the ability to research and arrange purchases online has become particularly valuable.

Affordability Remains a Priority

Economic uncertainty has encouraged many consumers and businesses to focus more carefully on affordability.

As fuel costs, insurance premiums and general operating expenses continue to fluctuate, buyers are paying closer attention to overall vehicle value rather than simply the purchase price.

This is one reason why the used vehicle market continues to perform strongly.

Well-maintained used vehicles often provide excellent value while allowing buyers to avoid the significant depreciation associated with new vehicle ownership.

Combined with flexible finance options, used vehicles can offer an attractive solution for both private motorists and businesses.

Looking Ahead

The automotive market will continue evolving as consumer expectations, technology and economic conditions change.

Flexibility is likely to remain one of the most important factors influencing purchasing decisions. Buyers increasingly expect finance solutions that accommodate different circumstances, dealerships that provide digital convenience and vehicles that deliver strong long-term value.

For dealerships, lenders and automotive businesses, success will depend on understanding these changing expectations and adapting accordingly.

Whether supporting customers through flexible finance options or helping businesses find the right commercial vehicles, the automotive sector is becoming more customer-focused than ever before.

As the market continues to develop, those organisations that prioritise accessibility, transparency and convenience will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

How Air Compressors Hire Supports Fast Pit Operations

By
SM
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Even the smallest of errors in pit operations can be costly. It’s true for construction crews running tools between shifts. It’s also true for motorsport teams executing a tire change. The equipment behind the operation is what determines its speed. It means that the entire workflow slows down with an underperforming compressed air supply. It becomes worst when the compressor fails entirely.

Enter air compressors hire. It’s a practical move for teams that want fast access to the right equipment. If you want an air compressor that’s properly matched to the job minus the delay that comes with purchasing and having your own, hiring is worth looking at. But how does it support fast pit operations? Read on to learn more.

It Puts the Right Equipment on Site Immediately

One of the biggest time costs in any pit operation isn’t the work itself. It’s waiting on equipment. Air compressors hire eliminates that gap. Rental providers carry a wide range of units ready for same-day or next-day deployment, so teams can get operational fast.

Matching Compressor Type to Pit Conditions

Not every pit environment has the same power source or space setup, and the compressor choice needs to reflect that. A diesel air compressor works well for outdoor or remote pit locations where grid power isn’t available, while an electric air compressor is better suited for enclosed spaces where emissions and noise levels matter. For operations with fluctuating air demand, a variable speed driven compressor adjusts output to match real-time needs, which avoids energy waste during slower periods. Where sustained, high-volume output is the priority, rotary screw compressors deliver consistent performance under continuous load. High-pressure compressors come into play when specific tools or systems require air above standard delivery ranges. Hiring gives teams access to all of these options without committing to a single unit type that may not serve every situation.

It Keeps Pneumatic Tools Running at Full Capacity

Pneumatic tools are the backbone of fast pit work. Impact wrenches, air ratchets, inflation systems, and blowguns all depend on a steady, correctly pressurized air supply to perform at their rated speed. When the compressor undersizes the job, tools slow down, cycle times stretch out, and the pace of the whole operation drops.

A well-matched plant-air solution keeps pressure consistent across every tool on the line throughout the entire operation. That means teams aren’t compensating for weak airflow or dealing with pressure drops during peak tool usage. When air supply stays stable from the first task to the last, pneumatic tools perform at their rated output consistently, and cycle times stay tight across every stage of the pit rotation.

It Removes Downtime Caused by Equipment Failure

Equipment failure mid-operation is one of the most disruptive things that can happen in a pit environment. Owned compressors come with the full responsibility of maintenance, repairs, and sourcing replacement parts, and that burden sits entirely with the operator. Hired equipment shifts a significant portion of that risk to the provider.

Emergency Support as a Built-In Safety Net

Most industrial air compressor rentals come with access to emergency support as part of the hire arrangement. If a unit goes down during a live operation, the provider can dispatch a replacement unit fast, keeping the gap between failure and recovery as short as possible. That response speed is the difference between a brief interruption and a full operational halt.

Remote Monitoring Before Problems Escalate

Many modern hire units include remote monitoring capabilities that track pressure output, temperature, and performance data in real time. Pit managers can spot irregularities before they turn into failures, allowing for a controlled equipment swap rather than an emergency shutdown. For large-scale or multi-station pit setups, this visibility across the operation makes it far easier to maintain consistent output throughout the day.

It Scales With Demand Without Extra Overhead

It Scales With Demand Without Extra Overhead

Pit operations don’t always run at the same intensity. Event-based work, seasonal construction operations, and fluctuating production schedules all create periods where air demand spikes and then drops back down. Owning equipment to cover peak demand means carrying idle assets for the rest of the time.

Just as the right mechanical upgrades can change how a vehicle handles real-world conditions, having the right compressor configuration on hand keeps pit operations running at the level the job demands. Air equipment rentals and leasing options solve this directly. Teams can bring in additional units for high-demand periods and return them when the workload eases, paying only for what they actually use. Modular products available through hire providers make it straightforward to configure a setup that fits the specific scale of the operation, whether that’s a single compressor for a small pit crew or multiple linked units for a larger commercial application or manufacturing facility. The cost savings over time, compared to maintaining owned assets through varying demand cycles, are substantial.

It Delivers Cleaner Air Where Precision Tools Demand It

Not all pit environments treat air quality as a secondary concern. In operations where tools interact with sensitive components, or where contaminated air could compromise a process, the purity of the compressed air supply matters as much as its pressure and volume.

Oil-free air compressors are the right choice in these settings, and hiring makes it easy to bring them in specifically for jobs that require them. Many hire providers offer units that meet ISO 8573-1 standards, which define acceptable levels of particles, water, and oil content in compressed air. This level of air quality control would be difficult to guarantee with general-purpose owned equipment, but through targeted hire, it becomes a manageable part of the compressed air solution.

It Gives Pit Teams a Reliable Support Structure

Speed in a pit operation isn’t just about having equipment present. It’s about having equipment that performs and people behind it who know the machinery well. Hire providers bring technical knowledge to the arrangement from the start, helping operators select the right unit, configure it correctly for the site, and keep it running through the full duration of the hire period.

That relationship covers more than just the initial setup. Ongoing servicing, operator guidance, and access to backup units when demand shifts unexpectedly are all part of what a good hire arrangement includes. For pit teams focused entirely on execution, having that layer of equipment management handled externally keeps attention where it belongs, on the operation itself, not on troubleshooting machinery. When the compressed air side of the job is in capable hands, the team moves faster and with more confidence.

Conclusion

Skilled personnel and efficient operations are crucial for fast pit operations. However, that doesn’t mean one can just disregard equipment supply. Pit teams still need the right compressor type. They need one that’s properly sized for the job and backed by support. The goal is to reduce the risk of downtime, and air compressors hire can deliver just that.

Hiring matches the unit to site conditions and tool demand. It can also help pit teams to scale during operational peaks. Meeting air purity requirements won’t be a problem too. These are things that owned equipment rarely can cover.

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