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LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Preview | Dover Motor Speedway

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Official Release
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CLUB ENTRY LIST

JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK
POINT STANDINGS: 22nd

COREY HEIM for ERIK JONES
OWNER POINT STANDINGS: 20th

JIMMIE JOHNSON

CLUB NOTES

Speedy recovery: As announced earlier this week, Erik Jones will not compete in this weekend’s race at Dover Motor Speedway. Jones suffered a compression fracture during an accident at Talladega so LEGACY M.C.’s reserve driver Corey Heim will be the substitute driver in the No. 43 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE.

Dollar Tree x Petty 75: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB and primary partner Dollar Tree will honor the 75th anniversary of the Petty family with a special edition Toyota Camry XSE. The paint scheme on the No. 42 for Dover is going to be nostalgic for Petty fans, as Dollar Tree vendor STP Fuel Additives is featured in the familiar Petty Blue and Day-Glo Red colors.

JJ’s concrete playground: Jimmie Johnson is an 11-time winner at Dover. In 2017, Johnson’s 83rd trip to victory lane as a full-time series competitor came at Dover. This weekend will be the seven-time champions’ first trip back to one of his most successful racetracks since stepping away from full-time competition after the 2020 season

Laps led: In addition to holding the record for most wins at Dover, Johnson is the all-time Dover leader in laps led with 3,113.

Heim Time: Heim is off to a blistering start in the Truck Series this year with TRICON Garage. He currently sits second in the points standings, only trailing the leader Christian Ekes by two points. This season, Heim won at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), has earned five top-fives, and has not finished a race outside of the top-10 to date. Heim has an average finish of 3.9 this season with 49 laps led.

Moving up: Heim also runs part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Sam Hunt Racing and the No. 26 Toyota GR Supra, where he has competed in five races this season. Heim earned one top-five and one top-10 finish in those five starts, including 15 laps led.

Xfinity success: Nemechek has made seven attempts at the one-mile track of Dover Motor Speedway, earning one top-five and four top-10s. His best finish came at his most recent attempt last year when he qualified 22nd and drove his Toyota GR Supra to a 5th-place finish, which was his only top-five finish at the track.

Ben’s best: Crew chief Ben Beshore had success at Dover with driver Kyle Busch in 2021 and 2022. Beshore coached Busch to a seventh-place finish in 2022 with 103 laps led. Notably, a Beshore-led team has never started outside of the top 10 with an average start of eighth.

Burdett at Dover: Crew chief Jason Burdett has three wins at the Monster Mile during his stint in the Xfinity Series. He has one win with Regan Smith and two with Justin Allgaier. Additionally, Burdett has 12 top-five and 14 top-10 finishes. Across 15 starts, a car Burdett has been the crew chief on has never finished worse than 11th.

To the lead: Last weekend at Talladega, Nemechek led the field for 20 laps marking the most laps led by a LEGACY M.C. driver in a race since the team’s debut in 2023. Before Talladega, Nemechek had only led one lap in the Cup Series, at Charlotte Motor Speedway during his rookie year in 2020.

Clays for Causes: The Erik Jones Foundation will host its annual Clays for Causes fundraiser on Tuesday, May 21st, in Polkton, N.C. The event will feature various sports, a silent auction, and other fun activities. Event details and tickets can be found here, and proceeds will be reinvested into the mission of the Erik Jones Foundation.

CLUB QUOTES

John Hunter Nemechek, Driver of the No. 42 ACME Toyota Camry XSE:

“Going to Dover for the first time in a NextGen car – I know there will be a lot to learn in a short period of time to get better every single lap and try to be there at the end to contend in the No. 42 ACME Toyota Camry.”

Ben Beshore, Crew chief of the No. 42 ACME Toyota Camry XSE:

“Dover is one of those tough ones where you go there one time with a good setup and go back again with the same setup and it isn’t as good. It’s a constantly evolving track. We will rely on our tools to get the car as close as we can from a setup standpoint and then take some time during practice to get it to where John Hunter is comfortable with it. We will have some different adjustments ready to go so we can.

Corey Heim, Driver of the No. 43 Dollar Tree x Petty75 Toyota Camry XSE:

“First of all, I want to wish Erik a fast recovery while he works through the rehabilitation process. Second, I want to thank LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, Jimmie (Johnson), and Maury Gallagher for considering me through these unforeseen circumstances and giving me the opportunity this weekend at Dover. I hadn’t ever anticipated making my Cup Series debut through a harsh situation like this, but I’m ready to make the most out of it.”

Jimmie Johnson

Driver of the No. 84 Dollar Tree / Family Dollar Toyota Camry XSE:

“As a co-owner, it’s been a tough week for the CLUB, with Erik (Jones) getting injured. I’m glad Corey (Heim) is able to work with us and we want to give Erik all the time he needs to recover 100%. As far as getting to the track, I am truly excited to get back to my favorite track of all time – Dover. I got to pick where I wanted to race this year and so of course one of them I picked had to be Dover. It’s a different car, a different time in NASCAR so I know it will be a different experience going back, but I am certainly hopeful that the 11 wins and all the success will cross over and show up in our performance. I can’t wait to get on track in the No. 84 Dollar Tree Family Dollar Toyota Camry XSE.”

Jason Burdett

Crew chief of the No. 84 Dollar Tree / Family Dollar Toyota Camry XSE:

What are your team goals for the weekend, and what does a successful race look like?

“Our team goal for the weekend is to have a solid day. Dover is a challenging track in general, so if we can go there and get the balance close for him, he can be comfortable and make all of the laps. I think he will generally get better and better as the weekend goes on; he is obviously really good at Dover and has had a lot of success there. From our standpoint, if we can give him a car that drives good and he feels comfortable with so he can drive it the way he is accustomed to driving it, I think that will be a good spot for us. Our goals for the race, as far as a finish, I think we will need to see how that plays out, get through practice, and have a good solid practice. Then, depending on how qualifying goes that will give us an indication of different things that we have for Sunday. Pit strategy and everything else is a part of that, but I think if we can get out of there with a top-15 solid day and have everyone execute on pit road and on the track, it will be a really good day for us.”

PETTY 75TH ANNIVERSARY

ABOUT PETTY 75th: The 2024 season marks a significant milestone in the history of the Petty family as they have helped define stock car racing for 75 years. Their commitment to the sport and the people who make it possible – behind the wheel, under the hood, in the back office, and beyond – has shaped the growth and success of NASCAR. Their LEGACY lives on with the countless fans, drivers, technicians, and team members they touched. Throughout 2024, LEGACY M.C. will celebrate the Petty family and share countless memories with friends and fans at race tracks across the country.

RP at Dover: Richard Petty has a dominant record at the “Monster Mile.” Petty won three of the first five races at the track (1969, 1970, and Fall 1971), including the inaugural race in 1969. Petty’s next four wins came across 10 years (1974-1984), winning in Fall 1974, Fall 1975, Fall 1979, and Spring 1984. “The King’s” seven wins and 2,206 laps led came with five different manufacturers, showing his dominance regardless of the engine.

KP at Dover: In 1995, Kyle Petty had one of his most dominant wins at Dover. Petty qualified 37th out of 42 cars and ran the No. 42 to a commanding 271 out of 500 possible laps led en route to his eighth and final win of his Cup Series career. This was his lowest career starting position that led to a win; his second lowest starting position was a 12th-place qualifying effort for his first win at Richmond in 1986.

The King’s Hat: This weekend, the monster-sized King’s Hat will be located just outside the fan zone, across from Miles the Monster.

BROADCAST INFO

DOVER MOTOR SPEEDWAY
SUNDAY APRIL 28th @ 2:00 PM ET

ABOUT OUR PARTNERS

ABOUT ACME: The origins of ACME Markets Inc. can be traced back to 1891, when friends Samuel Robinson and Robert Crawford decided to open a neighborhood grocery store at the intersection of South Philadelphia’s Second and Fernon Streets. In 1917, Robinson and Crawford merged with four other local Philadelphia area grocery chains to form the American Stores Company, or ASCO as it was known to shoppers. As the grocery industry began to change with the new found freedom of the family car, American Stores Company decided to create a full-service supermarket in 1937 – ultimately deciding to call the company ACME Markets after the ACME Tea Company which was the largest of the five original companies that became ASCO. Under the ACME Markets banner, the chain prospered, enjoying decades as the largest grocery retailer in the Delaware Valley.

Today, the core values of that market remain the same as envisioned by Robinson and Crawford back in 1891: a selection of quality products at competitive prices, where customers can always rely on friendly service. Over the 129 years that ACME Markets has been in operation, we’ve remained dedicated to providing our shoppers with the superior grocery experience they’ve come to expect.

In the years since we first opened our doors, ACME Markets has grown and expanded to operate 164 stores throughout its native Pennsylvania, as well as serving shoppers in nearby New Jersey, Delaware, New York, Connecticut, and Maryland. To date, we employ over 15,000 associates. We continue to offer consumers the freshest products, convenient supermarket locations, and handy additional services – such as ACME Sav-On® Pharmacies – all tailored to the specific needs of the neighborhoods we serve.

ABOUT DOLLAR TREE, INC.: Dollar Tree, a Fortune 200 Company, operated 16,622 stores across 48 states and five Canadian provinces as of October 28, 2023. Stores operate under the brands of Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree Canada. To learn more about the Company, visit www.DollarTree.com.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. The CLUB competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series fielding the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek, the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE of Erik Jones, and the No. 84 limited schedule entry for Johnson. LEGACY M.C. also competes in the Extreme E Series. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty “The King” serves as CLUB Ambassador. With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level. To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ on Facebook, X, Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

Amazon Desert Rally. A race that doesn’t exist, for a problem that is already happening: the drying up of the rivers in the Amazon basin

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Official Release
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Stock Car project alerts to the point of no return in the Amazon Rainforest

The racing category and track heroes propose an initiative to illustrate the dire consequences of a crisis that, in 2023 alone, led to the loss of 130 million liters of water from Amazonian rivers.

In a bid to reinforce its commitment to ESG, the Stock Car Pro Series introduces the concept of the “Amazon Desert Rally.” Emblazoned with the slogan “Don’t sponsor this race,” prominently featured across all promotional materials, the initiative seeks to highlight the environmental crisis confronting the rivers of the Amazon Rainforest, which saw 130 million liters of water vanish in 2023 alone. It’s important to note that this rally is purely conceptual and does not actually exist.

The drought not only impacts water supply but also cripples fishing activities, leaving rafts and canoes stranded on dry riverbeds. Roraima leads the nation in heat spots in 2024, exacerbating forest fires that engulf vegetation, wildlife, and homes, while also blanketing the region in thick smoke.

Irreversible degradation – The Amazon Rainforest may be teetering on the brink of irreversible change due to the dual onslaught of deforestation and global warming. According to a study published in the prestigious journal Nature, nearly half (47%) of the forest is projected to undergo irreversible degradation by 2050.

Against this backdrop, the “Amazon Desert Rally” assumes paramount significance. Its promotional materials showcase a team comprising indigenous individuals placed in an extreme scenario of total drought, where we’re not quite sure if it’s past or future, the true stewards of the forest, tasked with raising global awareness about the rapid destruction of their ancestral home.

In the launch video, we witness the team’s preparation in their tribal community, showcasing their adeptness behind the wheel of 4×4 vehicles as they navigate the parched riverbeds of the Amazon Basin. Ultimately, the team delivers a poignant message: they do not wish for this rally to materialize, as its existence signifies the potential disappearance of the Amazon as they know it, a place that has been their ancestral homeland for millennia.

“Don’t sponsor” – The “Amazon Desert Rally” initiative serves as a clarion call for immediate action to preserve one of our planet’s most invaluable natural treasures. “Have you ever paused to contemplate the origin of the wood used in the furniture adorning your home, like the chair you’re currently seated on? Often, we fail to acknowledge our responsibility as consumers and as members of society at large. By eschewing Amazonian resources, even within our homes, we can contribute to forest preservation – hence our motto, ‘Don’t sponsor this race.’ That’s why all stages of the Stock Car have zero carbon emissions. And there’s much more on the horizon,” remarks Fernando Julianelli, CEO of Vicar, the category’s promoter.

“Devoid of water and devoid of forest, humanity will lack the vitality to rally,” asserts Almir Surui, president of the Paiter Surui territory and UN-appointed Forest Hero.

“A rally evokes a sense of adventure, where nature should reign supreme. Yet, without forests or flowing rivers, we face a future devoid of warmth, replaced by the coldness of steel,” reflects Paulo Moutinho, senior researcher at IPAM (Amazon Environmental Research Institute).

Utilizing data from Acre, Amazonas, Rondônia, and Roraima, the study published in Nature identified 142,000 hectares of illegal deforestation during the study period, representing 38% of the total. This means that the Amazon lost an area of forest equivalent to the city of São Paulo to illegal logging in just one year.

This rally is hypothetical. But the reality of dried-up rivers is not.

For more information, please visit the website: https://www.amazondesertrally.com/index.php

Zip Co. Charges Through the Pack as Sonoma Raceway’s NASCAR Xfinity Series Race Entitlement Sponsor

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Official Release
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Introducing the Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250

SONOMA, Calif. (April 24, 2024) – Zip, the innovative digital financial services company, has been named the official entitlement sponsor for the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Sonoma Raceway on Saturday, June 8. The race is part of a three-day lineup for one of the biggest sports weekends of the year in Northern California.

The sponsorship marks Zip’s entry into the automotive industry and includes naming rights for Saturday’s Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race, which fields NASCAR’s rising stars on one of the toughest road courses on the NASCAR circuit for a pivotal 156-mile battle. Both veteran and up-and-coming drivers will be learning the nuances of the freshly-repaved road course at Sonoma Raceway, so an exciting afternoon of racing is anticipated.

“We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Speedway Motorsports, a pivotal move in Zip’s expansion into the entertainment & automotive industry,” said Zip Co-Founder and U.S. CEO Larry Diamond. “The next generation of consumers are choosing buy now, pay later as a more flexible payment alternative, and Zip is leading the charge. This sponsorship will not only enhance access to essential automotive components and services but also deliver unforgettable experiences to racing fans across the nation.”

“We eagerly look forward to working with Zip Co. as the new entitlement sponsor for the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Sonoma Raceway,” said Sonoma Raceway Executive Vice President and General Manager Brian Flynn. “Zip Co.’s vision to expand its customer base through motorsports mirrors our own dedication to attracting diverse audiences to the thrilling world of racing.”

The Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 isn’t just about the exhilarating racing action, it’s about creating unforgettable memories for fans of all ages. With pulse-pounding action on the track and interactive experiences throughout, the Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 promises something for everyone.

Weekend packages for three full days of racing, music and entertainment at Sonoma Raceway start at just $105. Adult tickets for the Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 on Saturday, June 8, start at just $40, while kids 12 and under get in free. Visit www.sonomaraceway.com for complete details, schedules and ticket information. Call 800-870-7223 [RACE] for ticket information.

About Zip

ASX-listed Zip Co Limited (ASX: ZIP) is a digital financial services company offering innovative, people-centered products that bring customers and merchants together. Operating in two core markets – Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) and the Americas, Zip offers point-of-sale digital payment services connecting millions of customers with its global network of tens of thousands of merchants.

Founded in Australia in 2013, Zip provides access to fair, flexible and transparent payment options, helping customers to take control of their financial future and helping merchants to grow their businesses. Zip is also a licensed and regulated credit provider and is committed to responsible lending. For more information, visit: www.zip.co. US loans through the Zip app and Zip Checkout are originated by WebBank, except for Zip-originated loans in CO, NV, MA, and MD.

Sonoma Raceway is a 2.52-mile and 12-turn road course and quarter-mile drag strip located at Sears Point in Sonoma County, California. Built in 1968 the track is carved into rolling hills with 160 ft of total elevation change. It is host to one of the few NASCAR Cup Series races each year that are run on road courses. It is one of the world’s busiest racing facilities, with track activity scheduled an average of 340 days a year. A complete and versatile motorsports complex, it is home to one of the nation’s only high-performance automotive industrial parks with approximately 70 tenants.

PATRICK EMERLING PARTNERS WITH GOONTAPE AT DOVER

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, NC, April 24, 2024 – NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Patrick Emerling announced today that Goontape will join him as primary marketing partner for this weekend’s BetRivers 200 NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Dover Motor Speedway.

“Goontape is absolutely fired up to be sponsoring Patrick Emerling and his number 07 SS-GreenLight Racing Ford Mustang this weekend at Dover International Raceway for the NASCAR Xfinity Series BetRivers 200! Patrick and his team are huge supporters of Goontape and what we stand for, and we cannot be more excited to cheer him on as he battles for the checkered flag,” said Goontape president Adam Totter. “Give ‘em hell, Pat!”

If you’re a tactical athlete looking for an edge, Goontape’s moisture activated Raid Tape has you covered. It’s made from an ultra soft blend of natural and synthetic fibers to help keep you on-target and in the fight, even when the work gets wet. It’s also made proudly in America so you know it won’t quit until the job is done – just like you. It’s Soft Tape for Rough Work! Raid Responsibly…

Feebs Distilling will join Goontape as an associate sponsor for the BetRivers 200. Feebs Distilling is a craft distillery that produces fine brandies (apple, blueberry, blackberry, peach and strawberry), as well as Unaged Korn Whiskey, Aged Whiskey and Bourbon, using the freshest local ingredients. Samples, bottles and merchandise are available for purchase in their tasting room in Milford, DE. Bottles are available in many area stores.

“Huge thanks to Goontape and Feebs Distilling for coming on board this weekend! Those guys are a lot of fun, and they both offer high-quality products that I’m proud to represent,” said Emerling. “I had a strong run last weekend until I was caught up in Big One. I’m looking to build on that momentum this weekend and earn a strong finish that matches how hard my team at SS-GreenLight Racing and I have been working.”

Additionally, Emerling will welcome back season-long partners SimForge (https://simforge.in/), which sells sim racing equipment and accessories; and Frontline Optics, a San Diego sunglasses brand owned by a retired firefighter.

The green flag drops for the BetRivers 200 at Dover Motor Speedway at 1:30 p.m. EST. You can catch the race on FS1, PRN and SiriusXM.

For more information on Patrick Emerling, visit https://www.patrickemerlingracing.com/ or follow him on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/PatrickEmerling07), X (https://twitter.com/PatrickEmerling) or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/patrickemerling/).

To learn more about Goontape, visit them online at https://goontape.com/.

Spire Motorsports Wurth 400 Race Advance

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Official Release
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  • In 10 NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) races at Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway, Spire Motorsports has logged one top-15 and two top-20 finishes. Corey LaJoie, driver of the No. 7 Gainbridge Chevy Camaro earned a team-best 14th-place finish last May at the Monster Mile. The Mooresville, N.C., team fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NCS with LaJoie, and fellow drivers Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, respectively.
  • The Würth 400 from Dover Motor Speedway will be televised live on FS1 Sunday, April 28, beginning at 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 11th of 36 races on the 2024 NCS schedule will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. NASCAR RaceDay’s pre-race coverage on FS1 will take the green flag at 1 p.m. EDT.

Corey LaJoie – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Corey LaJoie heads to Dover Motor Speedway behind the wheel of the No. 7 Gainbridge Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
  • Lajoie started 31st and finished 18th last weekend at Talladega Superspeedway.
  • LaJoie is a former Dover winner in ARCA Menards Series East (formerly K&N Pro Series East) competition. The third-generation racer started on the outside pole in the American Real TV 150, led 42 laps and went on to collect his sixth win of the 2012 season behind the wheel of his family-owned No. 07 entry. He made five ARCA Menards East starts at the Monster Mile from 2009-2015 and recorded one win, three top-five and four top top-10 finishes.
  • Gainbridge Insurance Agency, LLC (“Gainbridge”), a Group 1001 company, is an insurtech which strives to offer products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Gainbridge’s digital-first distribution model underpins its mission to reach all communities, including those that have been historically underserved by the national financial system.
  • Sunday’s Würth 400 will mark LaJoie’s 11th NCS start at Dover Motor Speedway and 247th career NCS start.
  • In 10 previous NCS starts at Dover Motor Speedway, LaJoie has logged one top-15 and two top-20 finishes, The Concord, N.C. native has recorded a 29.8 average start, a 26.9 average finish and completed 3.389 of 3,826 laps contested (88.6 percent).
  • Last May, LaJoie started 27th and raced his way to a 14th-place finish in the No. 7 Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE) Chevrolet Camaro.

Corey LaJoie Quotes
Talladega didn’t turn out exactly as planned but you’re heading to Dover this weekend where you had a solid finish last season and a win in 2012. What’s your outlook?
“I’ve had some success at Dover Motor Speedway in the past and having a Miles the Monster trophy on the shelf gives me a little extra boost of confidence. We need to start putting some points on the board to make up for these disappointing results over the last few weeks, so our plan is to put together a respectable finish in our Gainbridge Chevy Camaro and work our way back up the standings.”

Zane Smith – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Zane Smith will make his first NCS start Sunday on the concrete high banks of Dover Motor Speedway driving the No. 71 Focused Health Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports.
  • The one-mile oval is a favorite venue for the 24-year-old Cup Series rookie who took the checkered flag when the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) held its last race at Dover in 2020. He also owns three NASCAR Xfinity Series starts scoring two top-10 finishes at the “Monster Mile.”
  • Smith arrives in Dover after running well at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway last Sunday moving from 30th to 15th in the first 10 laps, then racing in the top-10 for more than 25 laps. He was collected in a late-race incident that left him with a 29th-place finish.
  • Focused Health will serve as the primary sponsor for Smith’s No. 71 Chevrolet. The blue and orange paint scheme represents a health insurance agency that assists consumers and employers in navigating the myriad of health insurance options in the government programs space.
  • Focused Health is a National Health Insurance agency founded by industry veterans with over 60 years combined industry experience. Primarily focused on the government programs space, Focused Health partners with payors and employers to deliver health insurance solutions for individuals and families. For more information visit AtFocusedHealth.com.
  • Race fans can join Smith for a 15-minute Q&A at the pre-race stage on the frontstretch Sunday at 11 a.m.

Zane Smith Quotes
Are you looking forward to racing at Dover again this weekend?
“Dover is one of my favorite tracks to race. I have a win there in the Truck Series and a couple top-10s in the Xfinity Series. It is a track that I know really well and had some success. I know my team is going to bring a fast car this week, just like they do every week. I’m looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish at Dover.”

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

  • Carson Hocevar will make his first NCS start at Dover Motor Speedway in Sunday’s Würth 400 driving the No. 77 Premier Security Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports.
  • Hocevar started 35th and finished 17th in last Sunday’s Geico 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. The top-20 effort marked Hocevar’s sixth top-20 finish of 2024.
  • Premier Security is a long-time supporter of Hocevar’s career. The Flint, Mich.-headquartered organization has been prominently featured alongside Hocevar dating to his time racing short tracks in the pavement late model ranks.
  • From the famous bricks of Saginaw Street in Flint, Mich., to industrial, residential, and commercial sites across North America, Premier Security Solutions has built an unmatched standard of security. Today, Premier has taken steps to advance technology and utilize new tools to combat theft and become an anti-crime organization. Premier’s Global Security Operations Center is a state-of-the-art facility, working around the clock to protect assets, corporations, schools, and families.
  • Premier deploys more than 1,000 guards around the country and protects homes, families, executive-level leaders, and major corporations. Premier’s team of retired law enforcement professionals protects more than 50 school buildings and high net-worth families, delivering an unparalleled level of service. Premier prides itself on a standard of service ensuring its customers receive the protection and peace of mind they deserve.
  • In his lone NCTS start at Dover Motor Speedway, Hocevar started 20th and finished 12th in 2020’s KDI Office Technology 200.
  • Hocevar leads the NCS Sunoco Rookie of the Year standings and is currently 21st in the division’s championship points. Over the course of the season’s first 10 races, the 21-year-old has notched one top-10 and three top-15 finishes.
  • The Portage, Mich., driver logged four NCTS wins in 2023 and finished third in the series’ championship point standings.
  • Hocevar is featured on Sirius XM NASCAR Radio Channel 90 Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. ET following each race to discuss his NCS rookie season.

Carson Hocevar Quotes
We’re back at a mile track this week and you’ve only raced Dover Motor Speedway once before in your career. How are you feeling about this week?
“It was fun when I got to run there a handful of years ago so I am excited to go back and even more excited to run our Premier Security Chevrolet. I feel like we should be pretty sporty. We have speed at these types of tracks and (crew chief) Luke (Lambert) feels very confident. I also feel good about our race cars and what we bring to the track. I’m hoping we can have another solid day and just continue to rack up the points and better our finishes.”

From the Top of the Box

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

  • Ryan Sparks serves in a dual role as both Spire Motorsports competition director and crew chief for driver Corey LaJoie and the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro in the NCS.
  • Sparks, a Winston-Salem, N.C., native, has been paired with LaJoie since 2020.
  • Combined, Sparks and LaJoie have earned four top-five and seven top-10 finishes, including a fourth-place finish in the 2024 Daytona 500.

Stephen Doran – Crew Chief, No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Stephen Doran begins his first full season as a Cup Series crew chief leading Zane Smith and the No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet team during the 2024 season.
  • In 2006, Doran got his start in NASCAR at Petty Enterprises.
  • Prior to his arrival at Spire Motorsports, Doran worked at Stewart-Haas Racing as an engineer, most recently on the No. 4 car driven by Kevin Harvick.

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

  • Luke Lambert is the crew chief for Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 team with 2024 NCS Rookie of the Year candidate Carson Hocevar
  • The 2005 North Carolina State graduate has led the competition efforts for some of the sport’s most notable names including Jeff Burton, Ryan Newman, Elliott Sadler and Chris Buescher.
  • In 2014, Lambert led Newman to a berth in the Championship 4, and ultimately a runner-up finish in the NCS championship point standings.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports is a NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race team co-owned by long-time NASCAR industry executives Jeff Dickerson and Thaddeus “T.J.” Puchyr. In 2024, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Corey LaJoie, Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, respectively. The team will also field the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth will drive the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.

Spire Motorsports 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 International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on April 12, 2024, when Kyle Busch took the took the checkered flag in the SpeedyCash.com 250 at Texas Motor Speedway.

NASCAR Announces Nominees for NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2025

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Official Release
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Biffle, Dorton, Sprague, Hendrick and Welborn join ballot for the first time

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 24, 2024) — NASCAR today announced the 15 nominees for the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025 and the five nominees for the Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR.

Greg Biffle, the first driver to win both the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series championship joins the Modern Era ballot alongside legendary engine builder Randy Dorton and three-time NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion Jack Sprague. “Mr. Modified” Ray Hendrick and three-time Convertible Division champion Bob Welborn join the Pioneer ballot for the first time. In addition, Larry Phillips was nominated to the Pioneer ballot after appearing on the Modern Era ballot the maximum 10 times.

Two Modern Era candidates and one Pioneer candidate will be elected as the Class of 2025. The Pioneer ballot honors those whose careers began more than 60 years ago.

Dr. Dean Sickling, who invented the SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barrier which has saved countless lives, joins the Landmark Award ballot for the first time. The Landmark Award honors those who made significant contributions to the growth and esteem of NASCAR.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Panel will meet in person to discuss and vote for the Class of 2025 and Landmark Award on Tuesday, May 21. The winners of a NASCAR.com Fan Vote (www.nascar.com/halloffame) will comprise the final ballot tallied. The Fan Vote is currently open and will close on May 19 at 12 p.m. ET.

The Modern Era Ballot and Landmark Award nominees were selected by the Nomination Committee, which consists of representatives from NASCAR and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, track owners from major facilities and historic short tracks. The Honors Committee, largely comprised of all living Hall of Famers, Landmark Award winners and Squier-Hall Award winners, selected the Pioneer Ballot.

Following are the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2025 nominees and Landmark Award nominees:

Modern Era Ballot

Greg Biffle, 2000 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion and 2002 Xfinity Series champion

Neil Bonnett, won 18 times in the NASCAR Cup Series including consecutive Coca-Cola 600 victories

Tim Brewer, two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion crew chief

Jeff Burton, won 21 times in the NASCAR Cup Series including the Southern 500 and two Coca-Cola 600s

Randy Dorton, built engines that won nine championships across NASCAR’s national series

Carl Edwards, winner of 28 NASCAR Cup Series races and 2007 Xfinity Series champion

Harry Gant, winner of 18 NASCAR Cup Series races, including two Southern 500 victories

Harry Hyde, 1970 NASCAR Cup Series championship crew chief

Ricky Rudd, won 23 times in NASCAR Cup Series, including the 1997 Brickyard 400

Jack Sprague, three-time NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion

Pioneer Ballot

Ray Hendrick, won over 700 times in NASCAR Modified and Late Model Sportsman

Banjo Matthews, built cars that won more than 250 NASCAR Cup Series races and three championships

Ralph Moody, two-time NASCAR Cup Series owner champion as mechanical genius of Holman-Moody

Larry Phillips, first five-time NASCAR weekly series national champion

Bob Welborn, three-time Convertible Division champion

Landmark Award

Alvin Hawkins, NASCAR’s first flagman; established NASCAR racing at Bowman Gray Stadium with Bill France Sr.

Lesa France Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice Chair and one of the most influential women in sports

Dr. Joseph Mattioli, founder of Pocono Raceway

Dr. Dean Sicking, inventor of the SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barrier

AMKUS RESCUE SYSTEMS TO CONTINUE AS OFFICIAL RESCUE TOOLS OF NHRA

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Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (April 24, 2024) – NHRA officials announced today that AMKUS Rescue Systems, which has been an industry leader in motorsports for more than 40 years, will continue as the “Official Rescue Tools of NHRA” as part of a multi-year agreement. It continues a lengthy partnership between the two brands, as AMKUS has been the “Official Rescue Tools of NHRA” since 2014.

The multi-year extension ensures AMKUS will be the official supplier of rescue equipment to the Simpson NHRA Safety Safari, including updating safety equipment as technology mandates. AMKUS will continue to work closely with Simpson NHRA Safety Safari as well, conducting annual training sessions to help ensure the safest possible environment for NHRA race teams.

“The safety of our drivers and first responders are at the forefront of all that we do,” said Emilie Maheu, AMKUS Rescue Systems president. “It is an honor to continue our partnership with NHRA, providing support to the NHRA Safety Safari team nationwide. Our entire organization appreciates the dedication of the safety team and their commitment to live-saving efforts.”

As part of the partnership, AMKUS will designate an “AMKUS Honorary Safety Safari Crew Member” at each national event, as the honoree will observe alongside the Simpson NHRA Safety Safari for one day at the race.

For four-plus decades, AMKUS has been a reliable named in motorsports, working with the likes of NHRA, NASCAR, IMSA and the World of Outlaws. The company provides first responders with life-saving extrication equipment, which has made them an ideal partner for NHRA for more than 10 years.

“We’re thrilled to continue this partnership with AMKUS as the Official Rescue Tools of NHRA. Their team plays a valuable role in keeping our racers safe and providing our Simpson NHRA Safety Safari team with the best rescue tools possible,” NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber said. “They’re a trusted name in motorsports and have been a great partner with NHRA since 2014, and we look forward to working with them for years to come.”

For more information on AMKUS, please visit www.AMKUS.com. For more information on NHRA, including the 2024 schedule, please visit www.NHRA.com.

About AMKUS

AMKUS Rescue Systems provides first responders with life-saving extrication equipment that makes our communities safer, healthier and more productive. Our tools are Made in the USA and are designed to be Simple. Rugged. Reliable. AMKUS has been supporting the race industry for more than 40 years and is honored to partner with distinguished groups including NHRA, NASCAR, IMSA, and World of Outlaws. For more information, visit AMKUS.com.

About NHRA

Headquartered in San Dimas, Calif., 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 Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock 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 110 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.

NHRA AT CHARLOTTE 1: Team Chevy Race Advance | Notes & Quotes

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Official Release
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CHEVROLET IN NHRA
2024 NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS
zMAX DRAGWAY
CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA
TEAM CHEVY RACE ADVANCE | NOTES & QUOTES
APRIL 26-28, 2024

CHEVROLET AND JOHN FORCE RACING LOOKS TO REPEAT LAST YEAR’S DOUBLE-UP AT zMAX DRAGWAY FOR THIS WEEKEND’S NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS

Notes:

  • Team Chevy next heads to the 2024 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway April 26-28, 2024.
  • Starting the season strong, the trio of John Force Racing drivers and teams look to this weekend’s NHRA Four-Wide Nationals to return to the Winner’s Circle, adding to Chevrolet’s 161 wins in Funny Car and 20 wins in Top Fuel.
  • Of note, John Force Racing will have a major partnership announcement tomorrow, Thursday, April 25, at 9 a.m. ET.
  • John Force Racing heads to zMAX Dragway this weekend looking to defend last year’s double-up by Austin Prock (Top Fuel) and Robert Hight (Funny Car).
  • John Force, driver of the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, enters Charlotte this weekend the winningest Four-Wide Funny Car driver at the track with four wins. Force defeated his daughter Ashley by .021-seconds in 2010 to claim the inaugural event victory. Force additionally won back-to-back in 2021 and 2022 where he also qualified No. 1 in both events.
  • Austin Prock, driver of the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, won last year’s Four-Wide event at Charlotte in Top Fuel, and enters Charlotte this weekend leading the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Funny Car points standings. Robert Hight, Prock’s teammate and who he is filling in for while sidelined for medical reasons in Funny Car, also won last year’s event in Funny Car while setting the track record later in the Fall.
  • Finishing runner-up at the Las Vegas Four-Wide event, Prock will also take part in this weekend’s Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge. Bonus points and a cash prize are up for grabs in the unique race-within-a-race format.
  • Brittany Force, Team Chevy Top Fuel driver and two-time champion, enters Charlotte this weekend as one of only eight pro drivers to have won Four-Wide events at both The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and zMAX Dragway in Charlotte.
  • Force became the first woman to win a Four-Wide event with her victory in 2016, and is pursuing her third championship in the car that set the current NHRA national elapsed time record of 3.623 seconds (Reading, 2019), and the current national speed record of 338.94 mph (Pomona, 2022).
  • Force, after finishing runner-up in Las Vegas, will also participate in the Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Charlotte in Top Fuel this weekend.
  • Pro Stock saw Deric Kramer racing to victory for the Bowtie brand in 2023’s Four-Wide Nationals, after Matt Hartford qualified No. 1. Both look to either defend or capture the 2024 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Wally trophy.

Quotes:

BRITTANY FORCE, DRIVER OF THE MONSTER ENERGY CHEVROLET TOP FUEL DRAGSTER:

“Our team is looking forward to Charlotte, the second Four-Wide of the season. We have had success in the past at zMAX (Dragway), and would love to get our first win of the season.”

AUSTIN PROCK, DRIVER OF THE CORNWELL TOOLS CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR:

“I think everybody will be a little bit better going into the Four-Wide, especially on the starting line just because they got all their tendencies out the way (last week at Las Vegas). In the first one (Four-Wide of the season), it always seems like everyone struggles a little bit more. But I’ve had personal success there (at Charlotte). This race car that I’m driving has had a lot of success there, so I’m looking forward to it. Last time in the spring last year, my Top Fuel dragster and this Funny Car right here doubled-up together. Maybe we can double up with Brittany (Force) this year. That’d be pretty special.”

Can the team continue its success?

“I believe so. I don’t see why not. This team is just honed in right now, and our package is working, so we’ve just got to keep making smart decisions. I’ve got to keep making smart decisions driving this thing and we’ll see where our cards fall. But like I’ve said all year, if everybody does their best over here, we’re going to be hard to beat every weekend.”

Has your success hit you yet?

“No, it still really hasn’t hit me. I’m living a fairy tale right now. I think it’s a good thing that it hasn’t hit me. I think we just need to keep our head down and keep focused and keep doing the job we’re doing because it’s been working. So don’t get too high, don’t get too low, but we’ve definitely got to celebrate the year we’ve had.”

JOHN FORCE, DRIVER OF THE PEAK ANTIFREEZE & COOLANT CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR:

“Bruton Smith built the Four-Wides at Charlotte and at Vegas, and it has created a lot of excitement with the fans. It is tough on the crew chiefs and the drivers. There is a lot going on there when you talk about each lane having over 10,000 horsepower. That’s 40,000 horsepower, and I think that is more than an entire NASCAR field, but I love it.”

How to Watch:

The 2024 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals kick off Friday, April 26 at zMAX Dragway with qualifying airing Sunday at 11 a.m. ET. The NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Finals air at 6 p.m. ET, also on Sunday. All sessions from Charlotte air with NHRA on FOX on FOX Sports 1 (FS1). Coverage streams live throughout the weekend on NHRA.tv, and is available via AppleTV, Android TV, and Roku devices.

TEAM CHEVY BY THE NUMBERS:

1,448: Round wins for John Force (1st all-time).

626: Round wins for Robert Hight; 13th all-time. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), sits 12th, with 628.

166: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for John Force (1st all-time).

161: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins since 1967.

84: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Robert Hight (6th all-time). Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel) is fifth with 88.

81: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins with the Camaro SS body.

47: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Brittany Force.

28: Number of NHRA championships Chevrolet holds as a manufacturer since entering the first in 1966. This is the seventh-consecutive award and ninth in 11 seasons. No other manufacturer has won it more than Chevrolet.

25: Wins by John Force in a Chevrolet-bodied Funny Car.

20: Chevrolet career Top Fuel wins in NHRA.

16: Number of Chevrolet career wins by Brittany Force.

7: Number of Funny Car driver championships.

2: Number of Top Fuel driver championships.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Toyota Racing – Weekly Preview – 04.24.24

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Official Release
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This Week in Motorsports: April 22 – 28, 2024

  • NCS/NXS/ARCA: Dover Motor Speedway – April 26-28
  • NHRA: zMAX Dragway – April 26-28

PLANO, Texas (April 24, 2024) – After the chaotic finishes at Talladega, NASCAR’s Cup and Xfinity Series return to their short track packages this weekend at Dover Motor Speedway. The series will be joined by the ARCA Menards Series who will also battle on the Delaware mile-long speedway. The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series also competes in their second four-wide event of the season at zMAX Dragway, just outside of Charlotte.

NASCAR National Series – NCS | NXS

Points standings continue to sway … Sunday’s wild race at Talladega caused a shakeup in the NASCAR Cup Series points standings, including for race winner, Tyler Reddick. The 23XI Racing driver jumped three spots in the standings to fifth, while also punching his ticket to the Playoffs for the fourth consecutive season. Martin Truex Jr. held his points position in second and is joined inside the top 16 of the standings by Toyota teammates: Denny Hamlin (sixth), Ty Gibbs (eighth), Bubba Wallace (11th) and Christopher Bell (13th).

Heim makes first career Cup Series start … Filling in for the injured Erik Jones, 21-year-old Corey Heim will make his first career NASCAR Cup Series start this weekend at Dover in the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. The Georgia native will be doing double duty this weekend, also running the Xfinity Series race in the No. 26 GR Supra for Sam Hunt Racing (SHR). The Toyota Development Driver has made two previous starts in his career at Dover, including making his Xfinity Series debut one year ago.

Reddick continues hot streak … With his win on Sunday, Reddick now has five consecutive top-10 finishes, and seven in the last eight races, as he continues to climb up the series points standings. The California native returns to Dover this weekend where he also finished in the top-10 last season.

Truex brothers go for repeats … Dover 2023 was a dream weekend for the Truex brothers, Martin and Ryan, as both captured victories in back-to-back days. The two each look to repeat this weekend, with Ryan in the Xfinity Series piloting the No. 20 GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing and Martin with his No. 19 Camry XSE on Sunday in the Cup Series. A win for Martin would be the 35th of his Cup Series career and a victory for Ryan would be his second in the Xfinity Series.

Johnson makes third start of 2024 … Jimmie Johnson is back in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE this weekend at Dover Motor Speedway. Dover has been a strong track for the seven-time series champion, where he’s accrued 11 wins, 18 top-fives and 27 top-10s in 38 previous starts at the “Monster Mile.” This weekend will also be the Hall-of-Famer’s 692nd career Cup Series start as he closes in on 700.

Toyotas stay put in Xfinity Series points … Heading to Dover, Toyota’s full-time Xfinity Series drivers held steady in the series points standings. Chandler Smith leads the standings by 14 points with shuffling of positions below him. His Toyota and Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Sheldon Creed, stayed in the 10th position after a top-10 finish at Talladega last weekend.

Short track dominance to begin 2024… Like its run in the Cup Series, Toyota has had a dominant start to the 2024 Xfinity Series season on the short tracks. A Toyota GR Supra has won the first three short tracks so far, with Smith triumphant at Phoenix and Richmond, while Aric Almirola won at Martinsville. Toyota also seeks a Dover repeat following Truex’s win last season.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series

Toyota seeks history-making 15th straight win … Following Jake Finch’s victory at Talladega, Toyota comes to Dover looking for its 15th consecutive win in the ARCA Menards Series, as well as its fourth straight to begin 2024. A triumph for Toyota would tie its own record of 15 straight wins, which was also previously earned in 2019 and 2020.

NHRA – Top Fuel | Funny Car

Toyotas topping NHRA points … Through four races of the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, Toyota drivers find themselves towards the top of the points standings in both the Top Fuel and Funny Car categories. In Top Fuel, Toyota owns the top five positions with Justin Ashley (first), Shawn Langdon (second), Steve Torrence (third), Doug Kalitta (fourth) and Billy Torrence (fifth). Antron Brown sits ninth in the category standings. In Funny Car, J.R. Todd leads the GR Supra contingent in the second position, with Ron Capps in sixth and Alexis DeJoria in seventh.

Does Top Fuel win streak continue? … Following Kalitta’s dramatic victory at the Las Vegas Four-Wide Nationals two weeks ago, Toyota comes to zMAX Dragway in Charlotte with five consecutive Top Fuel victories and four consecutive to start 2024. Kalitta and Toyota also return to zMAX Dragway as the reining winners, claiming victory last September on the way to his Top Fuel world championship.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 26 electrified options.

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

INDYCAR Announces St. Petersburg Penalties

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Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, April 24, 2024) – INDYCAR has announced penalties for Team Penske, including disqualifications for the No. 2 (driver Josef Newgarden) and No. 3 (Scott McLaughlin) and a 10-point penalty for No. 12 (Will Power) from the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on Sunday, March 10 on the Streets of St. Petersburg.

Team Penske was in violation of the following “Push to Pass” parameters:

  • Rule 14.19.15. An indicator to enable Push to Pass will be sent via CAN communication from the timing and scoring beacon on board the Car to the team data logger. This signal must be passed on to the ECU unmodified and uninterrupted during all Road and Street Course Events.
  • Rule 14.19.16. Race Starts and any Race Restart that occurs before the lap prior to the white flag or prior to three minutes remaining in a timed Race Event will have the Push to Pass system disabled and will be enabled for a given Car once that Car reaches the alternate Start/Finish line.

According to the rulebook, the violation is considered a Race Procedure Penalty (9.2.2.), which includes the right to reposition the Driver/Car in the posting or results, with a disqualification (9.2.2.6.) that includes the forfeiture of points and awards.

During the Sunday, April 21 warmup session ahead of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, INDYCAR discovered the team’s possible rules violation.

An extensive review of data from the race on the Streets of St. Petersburg revealed that Team Penske manipulated the overtake system so that the No. 2, 3 and 12 cars had the ability to use Push to Pass on starts and restarts. According to the INDYCAR rulebook, use of overtake is not available during championship races until the car reaches the alternate start-finish line.

It was determined that the No. 2 and the No. 3 gained a competitive advantage by using Push to Pass on restarts while the No. 12 did not.

Additionally, all three entries have been fined $25,000 and will forfeit all prize money associated with the Streets of St. Petersburg race.

“The integrity of the INDYCAR SERIES championship is critical to everything we do,” INDYCAR President Jay Frye said. “While the violation went undetected at St. Petersburg, INDYCAR discovered the manipulation during Sunday’s warmup in Long Beach and immediately addressed it ensuring all cars were compliant for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Beginning with this week’s race at Barber Motorsports Park, new technical inspection procedures will be in place to deter this violation.”

Due to the disqualification penalty of the No 2, the No. 5 entry of Arrow McLaren driven by Pato O’Ward is now credited with the win on the Streets of St. Petersburg.

An updated official final results from the St. Petersburg race is available here with updated 2024 season standings available here.

Members may contest the imposition of the penalties detailed in the review and appeal procedures of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES rulebook.

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