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Building Race-Day Rituals Online

By
SM
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RICHMOND, Va. - AUGUST 16: A general view of racing during the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway on Aug. 16, 2025, in Richmond, Virginia. Photo: Chris Graythen/Getty Images

Ask any fan about their race-day routine, and you will hear a sequence as familiar as the starting grid. Coffee at the same time, lucky cap, favourite seat, the playlist that sets the mood. As more of the fan experience moves across screens, those rituals are evolving rather than disappearing. Online communities are building new pre-race habits that keep the energy high from warm-up to the final lap. If you have been curious about how these patterns form, a quick look at digital fun habits shows why small, repeatable actions are the fuel that keeps fans engaged week after week.

Warm-up laps: set the tone early

The first 15 minutes shape the whole session. A smart pre-race routine online does what a good crew chief does at the track. It removes uncertainty, builds focus, and gets everyone in the same rhythm.

  • Dial in the environment: Queue the broadcast or timing app, check audio, and clear notifications. Fewer interruptions mean more immersion once the green flag drops.
  • Pick a shared channel: Whether it is a group chat or a compact voice room, set a home base to swap quick reactions without flooding social feeds.
  • Post your grid: Share predictions, pit stop guesses, or tyre strategies before the start. A simple template turns chatter into a friendly pool you can track all season.

These steps create a sense of occasion. The race has not started yet, but the community has.

Mid-race rhythm without burnout

Every long event needs pacing. The best online routines keep fans sharp without asking them to stare at a single screen for hours.

  • Structured check-ins: Call out lap benchmarks or stage breaks as natural moments to regroup. A quick recap keeps casual viewers onboard and helps everyone catch breath.
  • Second-screen discipline: Use a dedicated device for timing and radio, then leave the main screen clean for the broadcast. Switching less lowers fatigue.
  • Micro-games that add context: Short polls like “undercut or overcut” or “two-stop or three-stop” make strategy visible without turning the chat into noise.

When you pay attention mid-race, the last 20 laps feel exciting rather than exhausting.

The social pit crew

Online rituals work best when everyone has a small role. Assigning light responsibilities turns a loose group into a team.

  • The spotter: One person tracks cautions, penalties, and safety car calls. They drop quick summaries so nobody needs to rewind.
  • The strategist: Another fan watches tyre life and sector trends. They post short notes that explain why a call might be coming.
  • The historian: A stats-minded friend pulls one or two relevant throwbacks for context. Think previous overtakes at Turn 3 or average pit delta at this circuit.

These roles keep contributions focused. Instead of everyone chasing the same updates, the feed stays balanced and useful.

How gaming habits shaped fan rituals

Interactive entertainment taught millions of people to enjoy short, satisfying loops. The same principle translates cleanly to race day.

  • Clear goals in short windows: Like completing a level, fans can aim to log a prediction, clip a highlight, or post a quick analysis at set intervals.
  • Meaningful micro-rewards: A shout-out for the best call of the stage or a simple leaderboard of correct safety car guesses adds a small spark without overshadowing the main event.
  • Light cooldowns: Planned breaks during quiet laps function like intermission screens. They refresh attention and reduce screen fatigue.

These patterns keep the day fun for first-timers and veterans alike because the energy rises and falls on purpose.

Family-friendly pit lane

One reason digital rituals are catching on is that they fit around real life. You can make the day inclusive without losing intensity.

  • Kid-friendly moments: Share a colouring page of the track map or a scavenger list of cars, flags, and corner names to spot during the broadcast.
  • Snack rotations: Post easy pit-stop recipes or assign snack laps so the host is not stuck in the kitchen.
  • Short role swaps: Let younger fans take a turn as spotter for five laps. They learn the flow and feel part of the crew.

When everyone has a way to contribute, the tradition sticks.

Post-race cool-down that builds next week’s hype

How you finish shapes whether people show up again. A tight end routine turns a good Sunday into a habit.

  1. Two-minute debrief: Each person shares one surprise and one smart call they noticed. Keep it tight, avoid over-analysis.
  2. Clip and save: Bookmark one clean overtake or pit stop and add it to a shared reel. Over a season the highlights tell a story.
  3. Update the board: Record predictions, safety car counts, and stage winners on a simple sheet so the season-long competition has receipts.
  4. Set the teaser: Name one thing to watch for next week, like tyre degradation trends or a team upgrade. Leaving a hook keeps interest warm.

Build your own ritual in five steps

If you are starting from scratch, a light structure is all you need.

  1. Choose a small crew and a single channel.
  2. Create two or three recurring prompts that appear every race.
  3. Assign rotating roles so no one carries the load.
  4. Add a micro-reward for participation, like a weekly shout-out.
  5. Close with a short debrief and a teaser for the next event.

Racing has always been about rhythm. Engines pulse, strategies ebb and flow, and crews execute routines that look effortless because they were planned. Online fandom is learning the same lesson. Small, repeatable actions create shared momentum that carries from the formation lap to the cool-down. Build a few simple rituals, keep them light, and you will find that digital fun habits turn race-day into a weekly tradition that sticks.

NASCAR Prepares to Rewrite Its Championship Formula: What We Know So Far

By
SM
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Photo credit: Pocono Raceway

NASCAR had hinted that they’ll return to a full-season championship, so fans can be excited for what’s to come. Until 2003, NASCAR had decided to go full-season without playoff formats. Now, they’re ready to return to those roots.

Fans have been expressing their need for a change. In 2024, NASCAR was also reported to be utilizing AI to assist in forming a plan going forward. NASCAR’s committee has also been discussing what possible changes they’ll bring to this season’s format. The biggest hint they’ve given is that there’ll be major changes.

This might be a complete removal of the playoffs. However, there’s also a discussion about a four-race championship alongside some major adjustments for the playoffs’ points system.

Mark Martin has been actively informing about the changes to the playoff format. He’s one of the parties that are in favor of removing the entire playoff format. He said that despite how appealing the word ‘playoff’ may be to supporters and fans, he feels like it’s not exactly how he’ll describe NASCAR’s races. Playoffs somehow imply it works like a sports match, which NASCAR isn’t.

The Future of the Playoffs

For some motorsport fans, these changes might be exciting. The word playoffs can be a thrilling, fresh change to NASCAR, especially for bettors who are used to seeing the word mentioned on various sports offered by this list of the best Texas online sportsbooks. However, there hasn’t been any decision yet regarding the playoff. The Committee had been holding meetings to make a decision, but there haven’t been many updates on what changes fans can expect.

Mike Forde, NASCAR managing director of communications, has said that they’re narrowing their options down. There would likely be a 36-race championship, but the playoffs might not be among the new changes. 

Still, there are some disagreements that remain. The track president feels like it’ll be easier to sell the tickets for a playoff race. A team owner also stated that it’ll be slightly easier to get sponsorships during the playoffs. There’s no reason against having the playoffs, according to some people, but there are still discussions needed to achieve a conclusion.

Playoff Points Likely to be Removed with the Championship Having Multiple Races

There’s still no decision regarding the playoffs, but if it remains, NASCAR might be making changes to the playoffs’ points system. Still, there’s a chance they’ll completely take off the format. Another thing that might be removed is the one-race championship.

The reason behind this decision is that the Committee thought that playoff points may be confusing for audiences who don’t faithfully follow NASCAR. It can be a lot, too complicated, and may be overwhelming for fans to follow. The one-race championship is also removed as they feel like they need a bigger sample size.

In a scenario where the playoffs are included, the championship needs to present multiple races. Based on the discussion, it’ll likely be a four-race championship.

What You Can Expect Going Forward

In the current Cup series, 16 drivers are included in the playoffs. There are 10 in the Trucks and 12 in the Xfinity Series. The elimination rounds will choose the Championship 4. Then, the season finale will be where fans meet the highest finisher among the four, who’ll be crowned the champion. The format creates excitement, but Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR President, believes it makes it hard to make their future drivers superstars.

The playoff moments may give many chances for multiple drivers to have their big moments. That can be exciting for fans, but only in the short term. Because there would be too many drivers sharing the spotlight, NASCAR finds it hard to build one recognizable superstar.

As NASCAR envisions the future of the sport, one of its biggest goals is to ensure it can make a star driver. They want the champion to be fully rewarded. Regardless of what format they come up with, they’re going to ensure that winning is important.

O’Donnell acknowledged that the current NASCAR format has been a learning experience. It has taught them a lesson that fans don’t want the championship to be determined in the final moments of a game, such as a ball sport. The one-race format that has been going on can lead to many unpredictable factors, which can be the deciding moment for the championship.

He admitted that fans disliked the format, and they understand the frustration. However, they also can’t help but agree that the one-race format still has its benefits.

New Era Ahead: Jeremy Clements Racing Aligns with Haas Factory Team for 2026 Season

By
Official Release
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Spartanburg, SC – Jeremy Clements Racing is excited to unveil a new technical partnership with the Haas Factory Team (HFT) for the 2026
NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. As part of the partnership, JCR will campaign the #51 Chevrolet out of HFT’s facility in Kannapolis, North Carolina. This alliance represents a significant leap forward for the family-run team, providing enhanced resources, advanced technology,
and expanded opportunities for JCR to pursue its goal of competing at the top tier of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

“We’ve always fought hard as a single-car team, but this is a major opportunity for us, and partnering with the Haas Factory Team means a lot! We’re excited for what’s ahead!” said Clements.

Clements also expressed gratitude to the team’s loyal sponsors and partners, whose support makes each season possible. “Our sponsors have
always had our backs, and honestly, we wouldn’t be here without them. We’ve got a ton of sponsors to thank for making all this possible. Huge thanks to All South Electric, Alliance Driveaway Solutions, and One Stop Convenience Stores for always going above and beyond for us. We are also extremely grateful to All Weather Power Equipment, Fly and Form, First Pacific Funding, Kingdom Truck Sales, Spartan Waste, Fox Sports Spartanburg, and Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet. Without their support, this partnership wouldn’t have been possible.

JCR enters its 16th full-time season in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the team remains dedicated to Chevrolet and looks forward to leveraging Haas Factory Team’s technical expertise for future success.

Follow Jeremy and the team on all social media platforms to stay updated.

X: @JClements51 @JCR_Clements51
Facebook: Jeremy Clements Racing
Instagram: @jclements51 @jeremyclementsracing

Making Car Repairs Cheaper and More Reliable with Klifex

By
SM
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Photo by Tekton on Unsplash

For many car owners, the anxiety about the cost of repairs and maintenance can be overwhelming. Fortunately, companies like Klifex specialize in creating cheaper, alternative car repair kits that can be quickly installed by a mechanic or in a do-it-yourself manner. When it comes to frugality, utilizing third-party manufacturers like Klifex can save thousands of dollars while giving you peace of mind that your car will run smoothly for the foreseeable future.

DIY Repairs

The most significant advantage of using third-party manufacturers like Klifex is the potential for massive savings when doing self-repair. Maintenance shops make most of their money by charging high labor costs, whilst also earning a percentage of the cost of additional parts. By getting a DIY Repair kit, you can circumvent those costs. Here is what you can expect to find when shopping for your car’s DIY repair and maintenance:

  • Pre-assembled Kits – Include all the components needed for a complete restoration or repair.
  • Legible, easy-to-follow instructions – Step-by-step instructions that will ensure you complete the job in a timely and successful manner.
  • High-quality Parts – Made with longevity in mind to extend your car’s lifespan.
  • Wide-Range Compatibility – Ensures parts are available for your car so your needs are met.

DIY Kits not only save you a ton of money but also are a fantastic way to build your confidence and skill set. As you become more experienced in maintaining your vehicle, you can share that knowledge with your friends and family and branch out into larger projects.

Convenience

Cars are complex machines, but they’re not all that difficult to understand if you spend some time learning. Most repairs don’t even require a professional shop, which will save you time and let you avoid dealing with appointments. Klifex doubles down on convenience by ensuring each Kit comes with precisely what you need, so you do not have to spend hours searching for the right parts, which can quickly become overwhelming. Instead, all focus will be on the job itself, which is made easier by the benefits listed above.

What Each Kit Offers

Manufacturers like Klifex stand out for combining convenience with quality and cost savings in their kits. Whether this is your first time attempting a DIY or simply trying to avoid a steep repair bill, repair kits offer a ton of advantages. Each Kit provides the following:

  • OEM-Standards – Each component is designed to match the original part specifications and necessities.
  • All-In-One – Each Kit comes with everything needed for successful repair or maintenance.
  • Cost Savings – Competitive pricing that ensures you get the best deal possible.
  • Reliability – Just knowing that you have access to the parts required to fix any of your car’s problems significantly reduces anxiety.

Maintenance Shop Cost Effectiveness

While most shops prefer to shop and use their own parts, typically from the car manufacturers themselves, some shops are willing to work with the parts you bring in. While you may not save on labor costs, if a repair is too much for you to handle, you can find a repair shop that will use the kits you order instead. Which means you will still save on expensive repair bills, reducing the financial burden of car repairs and shortening the time your car spends in the shop.

If you plan to take this route, ensure you call ahead to confirm the shop is willing to use your parts. Manufacturers like Klifex make parts that meet OEM standards, so many shops will be comfortable using them.

Conclusion

Klifex stands out because it makes car ownership much more manageable by offering affordable, high-quality alternatives and repair kits to place the power in your hands. These high-quality repair kits will allow you to repair and maintain your car at home in a timely fashion, whilst also being significantly cheaper than utilizing an auto-repair shop.

The benefits of these kits extend beyond the cost itself; taking the time to install and learn the ins and outs of your vehicle will enhance your skill set for future repairs, saving even more time and money down the road. If you have a car making odd noises or a looming repair bill, why not try doing it yourself with high-quality kits from Klifex instead?

Wedding and Family Photos: How to Tweak Skin Tone Without Draining Life from the Image

By
SM
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Capturing memories with loved ones is priceless, and photos often become cherished treasures. But there’s a delicate line when adjusting skin tones – push too far, and you risk turning warm, natural skin into something flat or unnatural. Using a tool like skin tone editor can help, but only if you know how to handle it wisely.

Why Skin Tone Tweaks Can Go Wrong

Even the most advanced apps sometimes overdo edits. Here’s why caution matters:

  • Lighting varies from shot to shot, so applying the same adjustment across a group can produce inconsistent results. A tan on one person may look orange on another if not handled individually.
  • Over-smoothing or brightening can erase natural features, making faces look plastic or washed out. RetouchMe editors work manually, which avoids the generic look that automatic filters often produce.
  • Skin tone changes can affect clothing and background colors if the algorithm isn’t precise, unintentionally making elements clash with the scene.

Once you understand these risks, you can make smarter choices when adjusting photos. Think of it as enhancing, not replacing, the natural look of everyone in the frame.

Practical Tips for Subtle Adjustments

You don’t need to be a pro to get it right. Here are practical steps for balanced results:

  • Start with small increments rather than drastic changes. Apply minor adjustments to see how each person reacts to the new tone.
  • Check multiple devices. Colors may shift from your phone to a computer screen, so preview edits on both.
  • Keep the original copy. RetouchMe allows you to compare before-and-after shots easily, so you can undo anything that feels off.
  • Consider context: outdoor sunlight, indoor lighting, and skin undertones all influence perception. Adjust according to the setting rather than using a one-size-fits-all template.

These tips ensure the final photo feels cohesive and natural without sacrificing the personalities of your subjects.

Tools and Workflow That Work

Services like RetouchMe shine because they combine speed with manual care. Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Choose the ‘Skin tone’ option in the Body category, then pick the template closest to your vision.
  • Allow professional editors to manually refine the photo. This avoids overly mechanical results while ensuring every face retains depth and warmth.
  • Review your order before submission. Even small tweaks, like a subtle glow on a cheek, can make a big difference when everyone is viewed side by side.

Working with professionals on RetouchMe is fast and simple, even if you’re handling a large batch of wedding photos. The platform is optimized for iOS and Android, so your workflow isn’t tied to a specific device or software.

Adjusting skin tones in family and wedding photos is a balancing act. Too little, and the photo may look dull; too much, and it can strip the life from your subjects. Focus on subtlety, individual adjustments, and professional guidance if needed. Services like RetouchMe allow you to refine images while preserving the essence of each person, ensuring your memories remain warm, authentic, and true to life.

NASCAR 2026 Driver News and Updates

By
Angie Campbell
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Daytona 500 photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

As a new NASCAR season approaches, the Silly Season announcements have begun. Here are all the changes we can look forward to in 2026.

NASCAR Cup Series

On Sept. 5, Haas Factory Team announced that it will switch from Ford to Chevrolet beginning in 2026 – The team will also have a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports for its full-time Cup Series and Xfinity Series programs. Cole Custer will be back to drive the No. 41 entry in the Cup Series. Sheldon Creed (No. 00) and Sam Mayer (No. 41) will also return to the team in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Jimmie Johnson will be back behind the wheel in 2026 – On Nov. 5, it was announced that Jimmie Johnson will drive the Legacy Motor Club No. 84 Toyota in the Inaugural race at the San Diego Naval Base, Coronado, in 2026.

Zane Smith signs contract extension with Front Row Motorsports – Smith signed a multi-year extension on Oct. 23 with Front Row Motorsports in the Cup Series. Crew chief Ryan Bergenty will also be back on the pit box for Smith.

Daniel Suárez will drive the No. 7 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports next season – Spire Motorsports announced on Oct. 22 that Suárez will drive the team’s No. 7 Chevrolet in 2026. Suárez posted on social media that the decision to leave his former team, Trackhouse Racing, was a mutual agreement. On Dec. 12, it was announced that Ryan Sparks will be Suárez’s crew chief.

Connor Zilisch will drive full-time in the Cup Series for Trackhouse Racing in 2026 – On August 23, Trackhouse Racing announced that Zilisch will transition from the Xfinity Series to drive full-time for the team in the Cup Series in 2026. It was later revealed that he will drive the No. 88 and that Randall Burnett will join the team as his crew chief.

Denny Hamlin signs 2-year extension with Joe Gibbs Racing – On July 9, Hamlin signed a contract extension with Joe Gibbs Racing through 2027.

William Byron signs 4-year extension with Hendrick Motorsports – On May 23, Byron signed an extension to drive the Hendrick Motorsports No. 24 Chevrolet through 2029.

Kaulig Racing confirms that AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon will return in 2026 – On June 1, Kaulig Racing president Chris Rice stated that “100 percent” Allmendinger will return in 2026 as the driver of the team’s No. 16 Cup Chevrolet. On Dec. 3, the team announced that Ty Dillon will also be back to drive the No. 10 Chevrolet.

Shane van Gisbergen signs multiyear extension with Trackhouse Racing – Shane van Gisbergen signed a multiyear extension with Trackhouse on Aug. 8 to continue to compete full-time in the Cup Series with the team. On Nov. 7, it was announced that he will drive the No. 97, a number he previously used in the Supercars series. The length of the extension was not revealed.

On Sept. 5, Haas Factory Team announced that it will switch from Ford to Chevrolet beginning in 2026 – The team will also have a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports for its full-time Cup Series and Xfinity Series programs. Cole Custer will be back to drive the No. 41 entry in the Cup Series. Sheldon Creed (No. 00) and Sam Mayer (No. 41) will also return to the team in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Jim Pohlman will move to the Cup Series as crew chief for Kyle Busch – On Oct. 16, it was revealed that Pohlman will be the crew chief for Kyle Busch at Richard Childress Racing in 2026 – The announcement comes as Busch comes off two consecutive winless seasons.

Ross Chastain will have a new crew chief in 2026 – Brandon McSwain joins Trackhouse Racing (formerly lead engineer for William Byron). Chastain’s previous crew chief, Phil Surgen, will move to another role within the company.

JR Motorsports to attempt 2026 Daytona 500 – On Nov. 14, JR Motorsports confirmed that Justin Allgaier will attempt to qualify for and compete in the 2026 Daytona 500.

Rick Ware Racing will partner with Chevrolet in 2026 – On Dec. 8, the team revealed it will switch to Chevrolet in 2026. They will also have a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing. Cody Ware will return as the driver of the No. 51.

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

On Sept. 5, Haas Factory Team announced that it will switch from Ford to Chevrolet beginning in 2026 – The team will also have a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports for its full-time Cup Series and Xfinity Series programs. Sheldon Creed (No. 00) with Jonathan Toney and Sam Mayer (No. 41) with will return to the Haas Factory Team in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Jason Trinchere will remain the Crew Chief for Sam Mayer. Craig Smokstad has been promoted to Car Chief of the No. 41 in 2026.

Jesse Love will be back with Richard Childers Racing for the 2026 season – On Oct. 24, it was revealed that Love will return for a third season to drive the No. 2 Chevrolet. Whelen will also return as the primary sponsor.   

Sam Hunt Racing will have two full-time drivers in 2026 – Harrison Burton, formerly with AM Racing, will drive the No. 24 Toyota. He will join Dean Thompson, driver of the No. 26 Toyota.

Sammy Smith will return to JR Motorsports in 2026 – Smith will continue as the driver of the No. 8 Chevrolet in 2026 for his third year with the team.

Kaulig Racing will pause its Xfinity Series program for the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season – On Oct. 28, the team announced that it would transition to the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026 and field five full-time entries.

Corey Day to drive full-time for Hendrick Motorsports – On Nov. 7, Hendrick Motorsports revealed that Corey Day will drive the No. 17 Chevrolet full-time in 2026 with Adam Wall as his crew chief. It will be the first full season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for the organization since 2006.

Viking Motorsports will expand to a two-car team in 2026 with the addition of Parker Retzlaff – On Dec. 4, Viking Motorsports announced that Retzlaff will drive the No. 99 for the team in 2026 with crew chief Danny Efland as the organization expands to two teams. He joins Anthony Alfredo, who will drive the No. 96 Chevrolet and his crew chief, Josh Graham. On Nov. 17, the team also disclosed a new technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing.

Ryan Ellis to Young’s Motorsport in 2026 – On Nov. 10, it was announced that Ellis has signed a multi-year agreement with Young’s Motorsports to drive the No. 02 Chevrolet full-time.

JR Motorsports announces crew chief lineup for the 2026 season – On Nov. 14, the team announced that Andrew Overstreet will move from the No. 1 car to serve as crew chief for Justin Allgaier. Cory Shea has been promoted to the full-time crew chief for Sammy Smith. Mardy Lindley returns to the No. 88 car, which will run a part-time schedule with Rajah Caruth. Phillip Bell will be on the pitbox for the No. 9 car, with drivers Shane van Gisbergen and Ross Chastain announced for partial schedules. On Sept. 24, it was announced that Rodney Childers will join JR Motorsports as crew chief of its No. 1 car. The driving duties for the No. 1 will be split between Carson Kvapil and Connor Zlisch.

AM Racing acquired by Sigma Performance Services Racing – On Nov. 24, it was announced that AM Racing has been acquired by Sigma Performance Services Racing. No specific plans have been announced, but the team plans to compete in both ARCA and the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Jeremy Clements Racing to align with Haas Factory Team  – On Nov. 17, the team revealed they had formed an alliance with Haas Factory Team for the 2026 season.

Josh Bilicki will join SS GreenLight Racing in 2026 – On Nov. 29, SS GreenLight Racing announced that Bilicki, formerly a driver for DGM Racing, will join the organization in 2026 as the full-time driver of the No. 07 Chevrolet.

Josh Williams back for fifth season with DGM Racing in 2026 – It was announced on Nov. 14 that Williams will continue to drive the No. 92 Chevrolet full-time with crew chief Steve Addington. It will be Williams’ fifth full-time season with the organization.

Jeremy Clements Racing announces a technical partnership with Haas Factory Team in 2026 – On November 17, Jeremy Clements Racing revealed that the team has entered into a technical alliance with Haas Factory Team, effective in 2026.

Brennan Poole returns to Alpha Prime Racing in 2026 – On Nov. 18, the team confirmed that Poole will be back to drive the No. 44 Chevrolet for his third consecutive year with the team, in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Alpha Prime Racing adds Lavar Scott to its 2026 lineup – On Dec. 8, the team announced that it will have two full-time drivers next season.  Scott will join current driver, Brennan Poole (No. 44) and drive the No. 45 Chevrolet full-time in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. They also revealed that a third entry will run a partial schedule with more details to be added at a later date.

Jordan Anderson Racing will form an alliance with Richard Childress Racing in 2026, fielding three cars. Blaine Perkins will drive the No. 31 entry, and Jeb Burton will drive the No. 27. The third car will serve as an All-Star car (32), featuring rotating drivers. On Dec. 4, it was revealed that Rajah Caruth will drive the No. 32 Chevrolet for 10 races in 2026. He will also drive the JR Motorsports No. 88 part-time to complete a full schedule in the series.

RSS Racing will align with Chevrolet in 2026 – RSS Racing will continue its partnership with the Haas Factory Team next year in the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. They will, however, change manufacturers in 2026 and compete in Chevrolets for the first time since 2020. Ryan Seig (No. 39) and his brother Kyle (No. 28) will return as the team’s drivers. Matt Noyce will serve as the crew chief for Ryan and Aedan McHugh will join the No. 28 team. Both teams will operate out of North Carolina. SciAps will be back as Ryan’s sponsor for the 2026 season.

Joe Gibbs Racing announces addition of Brent Crews to the team next season – On Nov. 24, the team announced that Toyota Development driver Crews will drive the No. 19 Toyota in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for 29 races in 2026. His first race of the season will be at Circuit of the Americas on Feb. 28.

Cope Family Racing partners with Stanton Barrett Motorsports – Barrett announced the news on Dec. 2, saying, “I am excited to have the opportunity to partner with CFR and continue the long history of SBM.” The driver and sponsor(s) will be revealed at a later date.

Nick Sanchez will not return to Big Machine Racing in 2026 – On Dec. 8, Sanchez posted on X that Big Machine Racing informed him that he will not drive the No. 48 for the team in 2026. He currently has no plans for the upcoming season.

Austin Green will compete full-time for Peterson Racing in 2026 – On Dec. 9, it was announced that Green will drive the No. 87 Chevrolet full-time for Peterson Racing. The team will also have a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing.

Frankie Muniz returns as full-time driver for Team Reaume (formerly Reaume Brothers Racing) – On Dec. 8, the team announced that Muniz will return as the full-time driver of the No. 33 Ford. The organization will also field the No. 2 and No. 22.

Garrett Smithley to serve as primary driver for SS-Greenlight Racing’s No. 0 Chevrolet – On Dec. 10, the team announced that Smithley will return as the primary driver of the No. 0 Chevrolet for 25 starts. The remaining driver lineup will be confirmed at a later date.

Mason Maggio will join DGM Racing in 2026 – On Dec. 16, the team announced that Maggio will drive the No. 91 Chevrolet for a select number of races in 2026. His complete schedule will be revealed at a later date, but he will make his first start of the season in the season-opening race at Daytona.

Hettinger Racing will field a full-time entry in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026 – On Dec. 23, the team announced its intention to field a full-time entry in the series for the first time in the organization’s history. They will have technical support from Ford Racing and Roush Yates will supply the engines for the team.

Big Machine Racing announces addition of Patrick Staropoli to the team – On Dec. 23, Big Machine Racing revealed that Patrick Staropoli will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Staropoli competed in four races in the series during the 2025 season.

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

Kaulig Racing will partner with Ram for 2026 Truck Series debut – On Aug. 23, Kaulig Racing announced that it will partner with Ram in its return to NASCAR in 2026. They will have five teams in their Truck Series debut.

Brenden Queen to join Kaulig Racing’s Truck Series program – On Oct. 16, Kaulig Racing revealed that Brendan “Butterbean” Queen will drive for the team in 2026. He will be one of five Craftsman Truck Series drivers and will drive the No. 12.

Kaulig Racing releases details of its 2026 free agent program – On Nov. 17, Kaulig Racing revealed details on its Free Agent Driver Program. The No. 25 Ram will feature a roster of rotating drivers from diverse backgrounds in the motorsports industry. The Free Agent driver will be announced on the Monday before each race.

Justin Haley returns to Truck Series with Kaulig Racing – On Oct. 29, the team announced that Haley will drive for Kaulig Racing in 2026 in the No. 16 RAM Truck in the Craftsman Truck Series.

Daniel Dye to drive a Kaulig Racing Truck Series entry in 2026 – As announced on Aug. 29, Dye will compete in the Craftsman Truck Series in the No. 10 RAM Truck.

Matt Crafton will retire after the 2025 season – On August 18, ThorSport Racing announced that Crafton will retire at the end of the 2025 season.

Ty Majeski will drive the No. 88 for ThorSport Racing in 2026 – ThorSport Racing also announced on Aig. 18, that Majeski will take over as the driver of the No. 88 next year.

Tyler Ankrum returns to McAnally-Hilgemann Racing – On Nov. 6, the team confirmed that Ankrum will continue to drive the No. 18 Chevrolet for the team in 2026. It will be his third full-time season with the team.

Layne Riggs signs multi-year contract extension with Front Row Motorsports – On Oct. 29, Front Row Motorsports revealed that Layne Riggs will drive the No. 34 Ford in 2026 for his third full-time season with the team.

Chandler Smith will return to Front Row Motorsports in 2026 – On Nov. 16, the team announced that Smith will be back to drive the No. 38 Ford in the Craftsman Truck Series. Jon Leonard will also return as Smith’s crew chief.

Dawson Sutton will be back in the Truck Series with Rackley W.A.R in 2026 – It was announced on Nov. 17 that Sutton will return to drive the No. 26 full-time for the team.

Christian Eckes will drive full-time in the Truck Series in 2026 – McAnally-Hilgemann Racing confirmed on Nov. 20 that Eckes will drive the No. 91 Chevrolet for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing full-time in the Truck Series in 2026 with crew chief Dave Elenz.

Niece Motorsports selects Tyler Reif as the anchor driver of the No. 42 Chevrolet in 2026 – On Nov. 19, the team announced Reif as the anchor driver for the team’s Truck Series No. 42 Chevrolet. His schedule will include the majority of the races, with other drivers filling in throughout the season.

Christian Eckes will drive full-time in the Truck Series in 2026 – McAnally-Hilgemann Racing confirmed on Nov. 20 that Eckes will drive the No. 91 Chevrolet for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing full-time in the Truck Series in 2026 with crew chief Dave Elenz.

TRICON Garage announces that Kaden Honeycutt will drive full-time for the team in 2026 – On Dec. 5, the team disclosed that Honeycutt will drive the No. 11 Toyota with crew chief Scott Zipadelli.

Kris Wright will race full-time for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing in 2026 – On Dec. 9, the team announced that Wright will compete in the No. 81 Chevrolet for his first full-time season in the series. He will be paired with Darren Fraley as his crew chief.

Daniel Hemric signs multi-year agreement with McAnally-Hilgermann Racing – It was confirmed on Dec. 10 that Hemric will return for his second season in the No. 19 Chevrolet.

Spire Motorsports confirms return to the Craftsman Truck Series – Spire Motorsports verified its return to the Truck Series on Dec. 12, but has not announced the driver lineup for the No. 7 and No. 77 entries. Brian Pattie (No.7) and Chad Walter (No. 77) will continue in their roles as crew chiefs. Matt McCall, previously the team’s director of vehicle performance, will move to the role of the Cup Series competition director. Bono Manion, previously crew chief of the No. 71 entry, will transition to the role of Truck competition director.

Timmy Hill will return to Hill Motorsports – On Jan. 6, the team announced that Hill is currently scheduled to compete in 17 races in the Truck Series with the possibility of adding more races to his schedule as the year progresses.

On Jan. 9, Ram Trucks announced its plans for the fifth full-time Kaulig Racing driver in the Craftsman Truck Series – The driver will be determined by a reality-show competition, “15 Drivers. 10 Challenges. 1 Seat. It will debut Sunday, Jan. 25 on FOX. The remaining episodes will be available on Ram’s YouTube channel through Feb. 6.

Ross Chastain will return to Niece Motorsports for eight races – On January 9, the team confirmed that Chastain will drive the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026, with Phil Gould serving as his crew chief. He will share the ride with Landen Lewis, along with a third driver who will be revealed at a later date.

Cole Butcher will drive full-time for ThorSport Racing – On Jan. 15, the team announced that Butcher will drive the No. 13 Ford F-150 full-time in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2026.

The NASCAR 2026 season begins February 1 with the Cup Series Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Check back often for all your racing news and updates.

JR Motorsports, Chris Stapleton Reunite for DAYTONA 500 Encore

By
Official Release
-

2024 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion Justin Allgaier Returns to Pilot No. 40 Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Nov. 17, 2025) – As announced via social media on Friday evening, JR Motorsports and 11-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Chris Stapleton, will be making their return to the NASCAR Cup Series for the 2026 running of the DAYTONA 500. Following a historic top-10 finish in their maiden voyage in “The Great American Race,” this successful pairing, in conjunction once again with Buffalo Trace Distillery, will field a Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet for the second time in JRM’s illustrious history. In a nod to the signature Blend No. 40 found in every bottle of Traveller, the team will again field the No. 40 car, driven by 2024 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion Justin Allgaier, who will return behind the wheel for JRM’s DAYTONA 500 entry.

“Getting the opportunity to enter a second DAYTONA 500 is something that is extremely special to everyone at JR Motorsports,” said JRM CEO Kelley Earnhardt Miller. “Last year was an amazing moment, and I’m very proud to be able to see this group come back together with the support of Chris Stapleton and Traveller Whiskey to go after it again in February.”

Proudly blended and bottled at the World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery under Buffalo Trace Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley’s expert supervision, Traveller Whiskey is the result of countless hours of testing, tasting, and dedication to craftsmanship that have produced powerful songs and world-class whiskeys. Recently, Traveller was named “Best of Class American Blended Whiskey” at the New York World Spirits Competition, adding more prestige to the whiskey that was already named the “Most Awarded Super Premium Whiskey of 2024.”

Piloting the No. 40 Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet for team owners Earnhardt Miller and NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. is the organization’s most decorated driver in Allgaier. Allgaier, from Riverton, Ill., is the 2024 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion, a record six-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Most Popular Driver as voted on by the fans, the all-time series leader in top-10 finishes, and JRM’s all-time leader in wins. Additionally, longtime cornerstone partner for JRM and Allgaier, BRANDT Professional Agriculture, will again be on board the No. 40 Chevrolet in a supporting role. Last season, Allgaier methodically navigated the pack en route to a dramatic ninth-place finish in JRM’s inaugural running of the DAYTONA 500.

“I’m honored to be able to have the chance to drive this Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet again for Dale, Kelley, and all of JR Motorsports,” said Allgaier. “Last year was such an incredible opportunity and experience, and I am really thankful that Chris Stapleton and Traveller wanted to come back and be a part of this again. We had the speed last year, and I know that we will again to make it into the DAYTONA 500. It’s going to be an unbelievable time.”

JRM’s quest for the DAYTONA 500 marks the second time that Earnhardt Jr. and Earnhardt-Miller have entered a race in the Cup Series as team-owners. Under their leadership in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, JRM has been a pillar of success, earning 105 wins, a record 17 of which coming during the 2025 season, and four championships with drivers Chase Elliott, William Byron, Tyler Reddick, and most recently with Allgaier.

Be sure to catch Allgaier and the No. 40 Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet all week long at Daytona International Speedway as JRM attempts to qualify for the 2026 running of the DAYTONA 500, beginning on Wednesday, Feb. 11 for DAYTONA 500 Qualifying, followed by the Duels on Thursday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m. ET and culminating with the 68th running of “The Great American Race” on Sunday, Feb. 15, at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Bottled at 90 proof, Traveller Whiskey is a completely unique combination of whiskeys hand-selected from The Sazerac Company’s award-winning distilleries. Traveller Whiskey is widely available to retailers, bars, and restaurants through Sazerac’s United States and global distributor networks at a suggested retail price of $39.99 (local taxes and fees will vary). To learn more, visit www.travellerwhiskey.com.

ABOUT TRAVELLER WHISKEY

Proudly blended and bottled at Buffalo Trace Distillery since January 2024, Traveller Whiskey has already made waves worldwide being recognized as the Most Awarded Super Premium Whiskey Release of 2024. The premium, blended whiskey crafted by Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley boasts flavors of oak, sweet maple, tart currant, and leather. Complex aromas of vanilla, aged fruit, and buttery shortbread are rounded off by caramel and a touch of oak. The flavor profile also showcases a touch of sweetness, followed by spice, toasted nut, and oak flavors, closing with a robust finish.

ABOUT CHRIS STAPLETON

Kentucky-born Chris Stapleton is an 11x Grammy, 19x CMA, and 21x ACM Award-winner and one of the country’s most respected and beloved musicians.

In the midst of yet another triumphant year, Stapleton recently won the ACM Award for Male Artist of the Year as well as Best Country Solo Performance at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards for his song “It Takes A Woman.” These accomplishments celebrate Stapleton’s album, Higher, which includes breakout songs “White Horse” and “Think I’m In Love With You.” Produced by Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton and Chris Stapleton, the record landed on several “Best of” lists including Billboard, Esquire, Los Angeles Times, Vulture, and Rolling Stone, who praises, “dazzling…the best evidence yet for the way one man’s voice has become synonymous with the very idea of a musical genre.” Additionally, The New Yorker declares, “Stapleton is the rare country star with both traditional bona fides and broad commercial appeal. He has an outlaw soul and a pop star’s capacity for inescapable hooks,” while GQ proclaims, “In an age rife with division, he’s maybe the only thing Americans all agree on.”

Stapleton has recently collaborated with Post Malone (“California Sober”), Dua Lipa (“Think I’m In Love With You (Live from the 59th ACM Awards)”), Slash (“Oh Well”) and George Strait (“Honky Tonk Hall of Fame”), released a version of Tom Petty’s “I Should Have Known It” for the new Tom Petty tribute album and returned to NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” for the third time as musical guest. He also performed the National Anthem at 2023’s Super Bowl LVII and has worked in recent years with Adele, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Justin Timberlake, P!nk, Sheryl Crow, Santana, and many more.

Stapleton and his wife, Morgane, are founders of the Outlaw State of Kind charitable fund, which supports a variety of causes that are close to their hearts.

ABOUT JR MOTORSPORTS:

JR Motorsports is the racing operation co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Fame member and 15-time Most Popular Driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller, and NASCAR Hall of Famer Rick Hendrick. Now in its 24th year of overall competition, JR Motorsports competes in multiple divisions, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series where it currently fields four full-time teams and earned championships in 2014, 2017, 2018, and 2024. The company also owns seven titles in regional Late Model divisions with consecutive championships in 2022-23 and a prized national title in 2020. To learn more about the organization, its drivers, and its sponsorship opportunities, visit www.jrmracing.com.

Tony Stewart & Matt Hagan – Pomona Event Recap for the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals

By
Official Release
-

Tony Stewart & Matt Hagan
Dodge Direct Connection Top Fuel & Funny Car Drivers
In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals|
Nov. 14-16 | Pomona, California

Event Recap

Tony Stewart, driver of the TSR Dodge//SRT Direct Connection Top Fuel Dragster:

  • Q1 on Friday was canceled due to a shortened day with weather
  • The second qualifying session on Friday was canceled due to rain
  • Q3 on Saturday was canceled due to a shortened day with weather
  • The second qualifying session on Saturday was canceled due to rain. With the cancelation of qualifying, the ladder was set based upon championship points standings coming into the event, which had Stewart qualify in the No. 5 position.
  • Eliminations at the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals were canceled due to adverse weather and unsafe track conditions.
  • Finished fifth in the Top Fuel championship standings, 243 points behind champion Doug Kalitta

Matt Hagan, driver of the TSR Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car:

  • Q1 on Friday was canceled due to a shortened day with weather
  • The second qualifying session on Friday was canceled due to rain
  • Q3 on Saturday was canceled due to a shortened day with weather
  • The second qualifying session on Saturday was canceled due to rain. With the cancelation of qualifying, the ladder was set based upon championship points standings coming into the event, which had Stewart qualify in the No. 5 position.
  • Eliminations at the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals were canceled due to adverse weather and unsafe track conditions.
  • Finished second in the Funny Car championship standings, 101 points behind champion Austin Prock

Notes of Interest

  • Hagan has now won at least three tour events in 13 consecutive seasons, which is the longest active streak in the sport and the second longest in history (John Force won three or more events in 18 straight seasons from 1990 through 2007). Hagan’s 2025 wins came at the NHRA Northwest Nationals in Kent, Washington, the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St. Louis, and the NHRA Nevada Nationals in Las Vegas.
  • Hagan entered the season finale with 18 wins in Countdown races, the most among Funny Car drivers and second most overall behind only Pro Stock veteran Greg Anderson (19).
  • Hagan earned Tony Stewart Racing’s first Funny Car championship at the 2023 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals. It marked Hagan’s fourth Funny Car championship, where he became just the fourth Funny Car driver to win as many as four championships after John Force, Kenny Bernstein and Don Prudhomme. Hagan will remain in search of his fifth World Championship.
  • The In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals concludes Stewart’s second season in the Top Fuel Dragster class. Next year, Leah Pruett returns to the TSR Top Fuel Dragster after stepping aside to start a family with Stewart. Stewart will move to the Elite Motorsports Top Fuel Dragster seat.
  • Pruett and Stewart’s son Dominic James Stewart celebrated his first birthday at the NHRA Finals. Dom was born one year ago on race day at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip.

Tony Stewart, Driver of the TSR Dodge//SRT Direct Connection Top Fuel Dragster

“There is one thing that is undefeated in this world and that’s Mother Nature. It’s unfortunate, but it is the right decision. I don’t think you are going to hear anyone in the pit area get upset about this call. This is one that is out of our control, and, as racers, we always want to be in control of everything. Hey, at least Dominic had a great first birthday party. Every time that I want to be disappointed in how the Countdown went, I have to remind myself of what the goal was this year. It was literally to see the needle move in the right direction with the team. At the end, we were a contender to win races, and we let a couple slip through the cracks. But we won two races and the regular season championship. It definitely checked the right box to see the needle move in the right direction. An Indy win would have been nice, but there was a bigger prize with the regular season points title there. You look back on the season, and it could have been a little better. But you look at Matt’s (Hagan) side with the Funny Car, and to have a whole new crew chief combination with Mike (Knudsen) and Phil (Shuler), and to see those guys perform well and be in a position to win a championship. It was a long shot, but they were right there. That is literally all you can ask for. I think everyone is excited to have Leah (Pruett) back in the TSR Top Fuel car and I’m excited to get the opportunity to race against her next year. We are excited for the 2026 season.”

Matt Hagan, Driver of the TSR Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car

“As a competitor, you want to run this thing out, but I think we just wanted our shot to go for the championship. We wanted to fight for the championship that we have been working towards all year long. The end result was they (Austin Prock) were three rounds ahead of us. The NHRA came to our team owner, our marketing partners, and the crew and asked what we wanted to do today. The decision was made across the board that this was the proper decision with the weather. It was best for safety with the sand trap full of water and it definitely stings. You come here to Pomona as a competitor, and you want to have a shot at the title. We just ask for that opportunity and we had that. Mother Nature didn’t give us that chance this weekend. It would be awful to see someone go out and crash a car or get hurt. It just wasn’t meant to be. But, overall, for our new crew chief (Mike Knudsen) to have to call all of the shots and at all of the races and his note pad was all new at all of the racetracks. Mike had to make those ‘gut’ decisions and to win three races and finish second in the championship was a great season. I’m super proud of all of my crew guys as they are wrenching on the car and the car was solid all year. The whole crew is coming back for 2026 and I’m very excited about that. I know what we just did as a first-year team and I’m very excited for the future.”

Next Up
The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season kicks off March 5-8 with the NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway.

CHEVROLET at NHRA Pomona National Finals – Weekend Recap

By
Official Release
-

CHEVROLET IN NHRA
2025 NHRA FINALS AT POMONA
POMONA DRAGSTRIP
POMONA, CALIFORNIA
TEAM CHEVY RACE RECAP | NOTES & QUOTES
NOVEMBER 16, 2025

AUSTIN PROCK CLINCHES SECOND CONSECUTIVE NHRA FUNNY CAR CHAMPIONSHIP FOR JOHN FORCE RACING AND CHEVROLET

DALLAS GLENN CAPTURES FIRST NHRA PRO STOCK CHAMPIONSHIP AFTER ADVERSE WEATHER FORCES CANCELLATION OF FINAL EVENT WEEKEND

Notes:

  • Austin Prock’s season-long performance propelled the Cornwell Tools John Force Racing Chevrolet SS Funny Car pilot to his second consecutive NHRA Funny Car Championship after adverse weather forced cancellation of the annual Pomona final event weekend 
  • On the strength of nine wins, 12 final round appearance & seven No. 1 qualifier awards in the 19 event season, Prock notched his career-second title
  • Prock also won the NHRA Funny Car regular season championship, the PLAYNHRA All-star Callout and the Mission #2Fast@Tasty Challenge twice during the season
  • After only two seasons in his Chevrolet SS Funny Car, in addition to two championships, Prock has scored 17 wins and 24 final round appearances
  • Brittany Force steps out of the cockpit as a two-time NHRA Top Fuel champion and 19-time class winner, including the history making win in what is now her final race at the Las Vegas Strip earlier in November, as the driver of the Monster Energy Chevrolet John Force Racing Top Fuel Dragster, and ended the season fourth in the standings
  • Force’s Las Vegas win broke a tie with Shirley Muldowney and gave her the title of winningest woman among Top Fuel drivers
  • She captured her 58th career No. 1 qualifier at Las Vegas
  • Among her many career highlights is Force’s Top Fuel speed records set at 14 of the current 17 tracks on the schedule throughout her career
  • Jack Beckman, driver of the Peak Antifreeze and Coolant John Force Racing Chevrolet SS Funny Car, ended the season third in the standings
  • Beckman had a strong season that saw him claim two wins, five final round appearances and five No. 1 qualifier awards
  • Dallas Glenn is the NHRA Pro Stock Champion after a season-long battle with KB Racing teammate Greg Anderson
  • Driving the RAD Torque Systems Chevrolet Camaro Pro Stock, Glenn claimed his first championship by scoring eight wins, 13 final round appearances and six No. 1 qualifier hats

UP NEXT:

The Misson Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series will resume competition March 5 – 8, 2026 for the NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway (Florida)

Post-Race Driver Quotes:

AUSTIN PROCK, DRIVER OF THE CORNWELL TOOLS CHEVROLET SS FUNNY CAR FOR JOHN FORCE RACING:

“While we didn’t want to win it this way, but a championship’s a championship. This was out of your hands. As dominant as this Cornwell Quality Tools team was all year, we deserved it, and I think everybody in the pits could probably say the same. We went out there, we won nine of 19 and went to I think 12 finals and handful of number one qualifiers. We had a dominant Prock Rocket all year, and I’m so proud to say that we are two-time champs that is going to be next to my name, but it should be next to everybody on this team. They did a phenomenal job, and they deserved it! My dad, my brother, and the entire team put a great race car underneath me and let me go out there and showcase my talents. And that package all together equals two times. Awesome.”

BRITTANY FORCE, DRIVER OF THE MONSTER ENERGY CHEVROLET DRAGSTER FOR JOHN FORCE RACING:

“I always try to find the positive in everything. And this weekend, with Ponona being awash, with the rain, and the event getting canceled, I look back on Las Vegas the last time, my last pass down the drag strip, we turned a windlight on and ended up in the winterter circle, so that’s where my focus is. I’m really proud of everything, this monster energy team has accomplished this season, everything John first. racing’s accomplished. Jack Beckman did an amazing job in the seat this year. Again, did an amazing job in the seat. Austin Prock getting bringing home his second championship, and everybody under the John Force racing umbrella, none of this would be possible without every single individual.”

JACK BECKMAN, DRIVER OF THE PEAK ANTIFREEZE AND COOLANTS CHEVROLET SS FUNNY CAR FOR JOHN FORCE RACING:

“Unfortunately, we aren’t in charge of the weather, right? Some things in life, it is what it is. It’s very disappointing, especially home track and the success that I’ve experienced out here the last four times I’ve been here. But I can’t change history. I can’t change the weather. I’m sure that it was anguishing for NHRA to make that decision, fairly unprecedented to cancel a race, not postpone, and not see a pro car go down the racetrack, the entire duration of the event. Strange times we live in. And what are you gonna do about it? All right? We’ll pack up and we’ll unload again for preseasons and testing, and we’ll do it all over again in 2026.”

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

AUSTIN PROCK, DALLAS GLENN AND RICHARD GADSON EARN WORLD TITLES ON SUNDAY AT POMONA

By
Official Release
-

POMONA, Calif. (Nov. 16, 2025) – Funny Car’s Austin Prock claimed his second straight world championship on Sunday at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, while Pro Stock’s Dallas Glenn and Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Richard Gadson each earned their first career NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series world championships.

This weekend’s In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals were canceled on Sunday due to persistent and adverse weather and unsafe track conditions, deeming the trio of points leaders as world champions.

Top Fuel’s Doug Kalitta earned his second career world championship on Saturday.

For Prock, it’s the culmination of a simply dominant season in Funny Car for the John Force Racing standout, as he followed up his first year in the class with an even more impressive campaign in his 12,000-horsepower Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS.

Prock, who won eight races a year ago en route to the world title, claimed nine wins in 19 races in 2025, advancing to 12 final rounds and earning seven No. 1 qualifiers. His year was filled with highlights, including a sweep of all three four-wide races, three straight race wins in the summer, capped off by a second straight U.S. Nationals victory and then clutch moments in the playoffs to finish off another spectacular season.

“To win one world championship is one thing, and to win two is another and it puts you in a select group,” Prock said. “I think there’s only seven of us who have ever done it, and to add my name to that list, I wish my entire team could be added to that list. I get all the praise and the glory from the media and from the fans, but it’s not just me. I couldn’t accomplish what I’ve done in the last two years without the people behind me, and I’m really proud of them.”

In the Countdown to the Championship, Prock was pushed by four-time champion Matt Hagan, who pulled close after winning in St. Louis. But Prock, who also won the Charlotte fall race in the playoffs, made a strong statement in Dallas, qualifying No. 1 and winning the race in style to give the reigning champ some breathing room.

Hagan won in Las Vegas over Prock in the final round, but the young standout, who went 45-10 this season, held a sizable cushion heading to Pomona. With the championship, Prock becomes just the seventh Funny Car driver – and just the second in 20-plus years – to win back-to-back titles in the loaded category.

“Everybody on the Cornwell Quality Tools team is doing a phenomenal job, and they’re putting in that 110 percent effort,” Prock said. “We had a dominant race car all year long. Last year, a lot of people told me it’s not going to come as easily next year after the season that you had. We came in there and ended up getting the championship. I think that says a lot about this race team, and says a lot about me as a driver, and I’m looking forward to 2026 already.”

In Pro Stock, Glenn achieved what had so closely evaded him the past two seasons, picking up his first world championship on the strength of a spectacular season in his RAD Torque Systems Chevrolet Camaro.

Glenn won eight times in 17 races, advancing to a staggering 13 final rounds en route to an impressive 50-9 record in eliminations in 2025. Between Glenn and KB Titan Racing teammate Greg Anderson, the duo won 14 of the 17 races, but Glenn got red-hot during the playoffs to keep the reigning world champion at bay and earn the championship.

“It’s definitely really special, especially getting so close last year,” Glenn said. “It feels good. I honestly don’t think it’s really hit me yet. It maybe will hit me on the long four-day drive home later in the week. But no, it feels really good right now. You know, there’s a lot of just a lot of stuff, a lot of emotions and you’re just trying to process everything.

“It definitely feels good. You know, I get to race all next season with number one on my car. I get to take it from Greg, take it off of Greg’s car, and put it on mine. We get to swap numbers.”

Glenn won the opener in Gainesville, swept both four-wide races and then won at his home track in Seattle, shattering track records in the process, taking the points lead into the playoffs. There would be no stumble this season, as he won four of the five events in the Countdown to the Championship, rolling to wins in Reading, Charlotte, Dallas and then Las Vegas.

A year ago, Glenn lost in the first round at Las Vegas, opening the door for Anderson’s wild run to the title. This time, Glenn slammed the door shut with a splendid performance, paving the way for his championship.

“It’s almost one of those seasons that you don’t really want to end, even though you’re in the points lead, and, you know, ending means you’re the champion,” Glenn said. “We’ve had the car to beat, we’ve had the team to beat. We’ve been doing our job, on and off track.”

Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Richard Gadson enjoyed the fruits of his breakout 2025 season on Sunday, as he was awarded his first world championship on his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki.

It ended Gaige Herrera’s chance at a third world title, as Gadson held off his hard-charging teammate down the stretch. Herrera won in Las Vegas, but Gadson took a 21-point lead into Pomona, which earned him the championship. Gadson was great all year, and especially when it counted, winning twice in the Countdown to the Championship and ending his 2025 season with four victories and six trips to the final round, as well as his first two career No. 1 qualifiers.

“The mentality was kill or be killed. That was it. We talked about me and (Herrera) meeting in the finals, but it didn’t have to go that way,” Gadson said. “We had two sides of the ladder that we had to get through and none of those people owed us any favors. I didn’t want anybody to take it from me or stop it and I was willing to lay it all on the line out there. So, you know, I came here to go to war with my friends, with my teammate. It was that mentality the whole weekend.”

After coming up just short on a handful of occasions, both during his rookie season in 2024 and early this year, Gadson broke through with his first career victory in Bristol, savoring the special moment that seemed to only spur him on for more. He added another win in Sonoma and entered the playoffs second in points.

While Herrera struggled early in the Countdown, Gadson was on point, winning the four-wide race in Charlotte and adding another victory in Dallas – after qualifying No. 1 – which proved to be the difference.

“Me and Eddie (Krawiec, crew chief) both had to dig deep and figure out what in what ways we can be better individually, and then how we mix that together and make us better on results,” Gadson said. “I think we really, really, really have come a long way this year.”

The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series kicks off its 75th anniversary season in 2026 on March 5-8 with the NHRA Gatornationals at legendary Gainesville Raceway.

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