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NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Elimination Format: 10-Year Anniversary

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Ten years ago on this day, January 30, NASCAR announced a major overhaul to the Cup Series Playoff system by revealing a new 10-week format and postseason battle for the championship. This new format places a heavy emphasis on winning throughout an entire season for an expanded postseason field. It also leaves very little room for error as the field narrows by quarter sections per round throughout the Playoffs until the last competitor standing after the finale will emerge as a champion in NASCAR’s premier series.

From the new format, a victory for any full-time competitor who qualified and competed in every regular-season event on the schedule, from the season-opening Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway through Race No. 26, the regular-season finale, would guarantee him/herself a berth for the 10-race Playoffs (except for waiver instances from NASCAR that would even grant those who did not compete the entire regular-season stretch to still be eligible to contend for the Playoffs). In addition, the Playoff field that started with 10 vacant spots (2004-06) and grew to 12 (2007-12) and 13 (2013) would expand to 16, with those accumulating the most regular-season victories along with points and a winless regular-season points leader (if needed due to less than 16 regular-season victors for the latter two categories) clinching spots for the postseason format.

Once the Playoffs commenced, the first nine postseason events would be sliced into three per Playoff round and eliminate the bottom four competitors in the Playoff standings, from 16 to 12 to eight and lastly, four. Within the new elimination format, a victory within any round (maximum three for three races per round) would guarantee a Playoff competitor a spot into the proceeding round with the remaining vacant rounds being set by those highest in points. After each round, the remaining competitors who are still championship eligible would have their points reset while those who are eliminated would have their points total readjusted to the normal points format in sync with the rest of the field, but still eligible to battle as high as for fifth place in the standings.

Once the Round of 8, the penultimate round, concluded, the top-four competitors in points would transfer to the Championship 4 round and square off against one another in the final event on the schedule. During the finale, the highest-finishing title contender would be awarded the Bill France Cup championship-winning trophy in NASCAR’s premier series.

Since the inception of the current Playoff format (2014-23), a total of 40 competitors qualified for the Playoffs at least once, either by winning at least once throughout the regular-season stretch or based on points. In addition, 19 teams had at least one competitor/entry represented in the Playoffs. Through the 2023 season, the following names that include Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin and Kevin Harvick are the only competitors to make the postseason since the current Playoff format’s debut in 2014. Harvick, however, is set to depart this list after retiring from full-time Cup Series competition as he is replaced by incoming rookie Josh Berry for the 2024 season.

Within the list of 40 names, 19 clinched a Playoff spot by winning for the first time in the Cup Series in the process. In 2014, Aric Almirola and AJ Allmendinger guaranteed themselves first-time opportunities to make the Playoffs and contend for a championship after both scored their first Cup career victory throughout the regular-season stretch. Additional names of first-time winners claiming automatic berths to the Playoffs from 2014 to 2023 include Christopher Bell, Ryan Blaney, Alex Bowman, Chris Buescher, Chase Briscoe, William Byron, Ross Chastain, Austin Cindric, Cole Custer, Austin Dillon, Chase Elliott, Erik Jones, Kyle Larson, Michael McDowell, Tyler Reddick, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Daniel Suarez. The most recent newcomer to the Playoffs is Bubba Wallace, who secured the 16th and final transfer berth into the 2023 Playoffs based on points.

Of the 40 Playoff qualifiers recorded, 16 transferred to the Championship 4 round and contended for a Cup Series championship. Of the 16 finalists, eight won a championship. Of the eight championship-winning competitors, seven became first-time Cup champions. During the current Playoff’s inaugural use in 2014, Kevin Harvick achieved his first Cup title after fending off a late charge from title rival Ryan Newman to also win the finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway in his first season driving for Stewart-Haas Racing.

Most recently, Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney etched his name as a first-time Cup champion in 2023 after emerging as the highest-finishing title contender over Kyle Larson, William Byron and Christopher Bell during the season’s finale at Phoenix Raceway. Other notable names who became first-time champions from the format include Kyle Busch, Martin Truex Jr., Joey Logano, Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson. The only competitor who had previously won a championship during the Playoff’s former use from 2004 to 2013 and proceeded to win again during the Playoff’s current use is Jimmie Johnson, who joined Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt as the only competitors to win a record-tying seven titles in 2016. From the list of seven competitors who became first-time champions, Busch and Logano would each proceed to win a second Cup title (2019 & 2022).

With the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season set to mark the 11th consecutive season of the current Playoff format’s use, it presents an abundance of new memories toward the postseason battle for the premier series championship that remains to be determined with the commencement of this year’s Playoffs.

With this year’s Cup Series regular-season finale occurring at Darlington Raceway on September 1, the 2024 Cup Series Playoffs are scheduled to commence at Atlanta Motor Speedway a week later, on September 8, and air at 3 p.m. ET on USA Network. The 2024 Cup Series Championship Race is set to return to Phoenix Raceway for a fifth consecutive season and air on November 10 at 3 p.m. ET on NBC.

Mahindra Tractors Racing: Chase Briscoe Clash at the Coliseum Advance

By
Official Release
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CHASE BRISCOE
Busch Light Clash at The Coliseum
No. 14 Mahindra Tractors Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing

Event Overview
● Event: Busch Light Clash at The Coliseum
● Time/Date: 6 p.m. EST on Sunday, Feb. 4
● Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
● Layout: Quarter-mile oval
● Format: 150-lap Feature with a 23-car field set by Heats and Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ)
● TV/Radio: FOX / MRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● For the third year in a row, Chase Briscoe and his fellow NASCAR Cup Series competitors will get the new season’s first taste of on-track action on the West Coast with this weekend’s non-points Busch Light Clash at The Coliseum. The event debuted on the purpose-built, quarter-mile, asphalt oval inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in 2022.

● Briscoe and the No. 14 Mahindra Tractors team for Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) showed up ready to impress for the inaugural Clash as he was third-fastest in practice and finished second in his heat race after starting seventh. He lined up sixth for the 150-lap feature and was running fourth on lap 53 before a mechanical issue ended his race. A year ago this weekend, Briscoe finished second in his heat race and 15th in the feature, completing all 150 laps.

● The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year enters his fourth season as the new elder statesman in the SHR driver lineup, which saw the retirement of veterans Kevin Harvick and Aric Almirola at the conclusion of 2023. Briscoe and second-year SHR driver Ryan Preece are joined by SHR newcomers Josh Berry and Noah Gragson for the 2024 campaign.

● In 108 career Cup Series starts, Briscoe has a March 2022 victory at Phoenix Raceway among his 10 top-five finishes and 21 top-10s. He’s qualified on the pole twice and has led 482 laps. His Phoenix victory secured his position in the 2022 Cup Series Playoffs, where he advanced to the Round of 8.

● Through his first three seasons, the 29-year-old driver from Mitchell, Indiana has steadily risen to the challenge presented by NASCAR short-track racing, the spark ignited by his solid performance at the inaugural Clash in 2022. In last year’s two races at the iconic Martinsville (Va.) Speedway half-mile paperclip-shaped oval, Briscoe qualified fourth and finished fifth in the spring race, leading 109 laps along the way, and qualified third and finished fourth in the fall race. He also turned in solid performances in the 2022 and 2023 spring races on the half-mile Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway oval – albeit on dirt. He started fourth and led twice for 59 laps in the 2022 event before contact while attempting to pass for the lead on the final lap foiled his bid. He returned in 2023 to post a fifth-place finish from 14th on the starting grid.

● Mahindra Ag North America returns for its third year as the anchor sponsor for Briscoe and the No. 14 team after extending its partnership with Stewart-Haas Racing during the offseason. The multiyear agreement with the NASCAR team co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart and industrialist Gene Haas will continue to feature Mahindra Tractors, a brand of Mahindra Ag North America, on Briscoe’s No. 14 Ford Mustang for the majority of the NASCAR Cup Series schedule. The red-and-black No. 14 Mahindra Tractors Ford Mustang made its debut in the 2022 Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum and then won in just its fifth race as a primary sponsor when Briscoe drove to victory on March 13, 2022 at Phoenix Raceway. The win secured Mahindra Tractors’ place in the NASCAR Playoffs and earned Briscoe the honor of being the 200th Cup Series winner in NASCAR history. Houston-based Mahindra Ag North America is part of Mahindra Group’s Automotive and Farm Sector, the No. 1 selling farm tractor company in the world, based on volumes across all company brands. Mahindra offers a range of tractor models from 20-75 horsepower, implements, and the ROXOR heavy-duty UTV. Mahindra farm equipment is engineered to be easy to operate by first-time tractor or side-by-side owners and heavy duty to tackle the tough jobs of rural living, farming and ranching. Steel-framed Mahindra Tractors and side-by-sides are ideal for customers who demand performance, reliability and comfort. Mahindra dealers are independent, family-owned businesses located throughout the U.S. and Canada.

● On Saturday, NASCAR Cup Series competitors will take to the track for a dual practice/qualifying session that determines the starting order for four, 25-lap heat races consisting of 10 cars each. Below is a breakdown on how Saturday’s heat races will be filled out:

The field will be split into three practice groups, with each group receiving three sessions. The fastest lap time from each competitor’s final practice session will determine the starting lineup for the four heat races. The top-four overall lap times in final practice will earn the pole for each heat race, while the fifth- through eighth-fastest lap times will make up the other half of the front row for each heat.
The complete field for each heat race will be filled using this methodology: Heat one will be made up of cars listed in overall positions one, five, nine, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, 37 on the final practice timesheet.
The top-five finishers (20 total cars) from each heat race automatically advance to the Clash, with the winner of heat one winning the pole and the winner of heat two earning the outside pole.
The winners of heats three and four will fill out the second row, with the remaining order being determined in the same manner.
The remaining finishing positions from each heat that did not advance will continue to Sunday’s 75-lap Last Chance Qualifying (LCQ) race. Below is a breakdown on how the LCQ will be filled out:
The starting order will be determined based on finishing positions in the heat races.
The sixth-place finisher from heat one will be on the pole for the LCQ race. The sixth-place finisher from heat two will be on the outside pole. This pattern will continue to fill out the remaining LCQ field.
The top-two finishers from the LCQ race will advance to the Clash, filling out positions 21 and 22.
The 23rd and final spot in the Clash will be reserved for the driver who finished the highest in the 2023 championship standings who does not transfer on finishing position in their heat race or in their LCQ race.
All other drivers will be eliminated from competition for the remainder of the event weekend.
Chase Briscoe, Driver of the No. 14 Mahindra Tractors Ford Mustang

You’re now the elder statesman of Stewart-Haas Racing drivers. As you get ready to go to the track for the first time in 2024 for the Busch Light Clash, what does your tenure at SHR bring to the table as you begin this season with two new teammates in Josh Berry and Noah Gragson?

“First off, I’m just excited to get back to the track. I don’t think I’ve ever been this excited for a race season in my entire career. From that standpoint, I’m just glad to be back. But, yeah, it’s going to be different from my standpoint, not having Kevin (Harvick) and Aric (Almirola) there anymore, two guys I really would constantly judge myself off of and constantly ask them questions. I’m not going to have them there anymore, so that part’s going to be different. I do think it’s a great opportunity to try to be an example, especially these first couple of weeks. The Stewart-Haas of old isn’t necessarily going to be what the Stewart-Haas of the future is, and that even comes down to how teammates race each other and just how we work together. For me, being the longest-tenured guy here, I think it’s extra critical for me to try to lead by example, on the racetrack how we race each other, but also off the racetrack just how we interact. I’m looking forward to that challenge and everything that comes along with it.”

You were quick to say you’re just excited to get back to the track. Why?

“Obviously last year was a struggle, that’s no secret, and with our points penalty we got in May, we weren’t really racing for anything, like from a championship side of things or a points side of things. If we didn’t have the points penalty, if we would’ve finished second on a weekend, or third on a weekend, well then that was a great thing for points. But for us, with how big of a points penalty we had, anything outside of a win was kind of irrelevant, it didn’t really do anything for us. So I’m just excited about being back in the mix where we’re racing for something again, it feels like. Obviously last year with the crew chief change, I felt like those last four months, everything we focused on was for this season, so I feel like I’ve kind of been in 2024 for the last five or six months, but now we finally get a clean slate to start fresh with everybody else. You throw that in with the new body and things like that, and just the new Stewart-Haas that it is now, I’m really excited to go forward with this race season.”

What was the Clash like in year two compared to the inaugural event, and what are your expectations for year three?

“Year two I thought was way harder from a competition standpoint, everybody was much tighter. When we went there the first year, that was the first race ever with the NextGen car, so everybody’s stuff wasn’t really driving good, where year two, the field was way tighter from a competition standpoint. You look at year three, it’s probably going to somehow get even tighter than it was in year two, so I think it’s going to be extra critical to be on your game when you get there. The format’s a little bit different this year. I do think that it’s going to be very similar to last year where there’s going to be a lot of beating and banging just because we’re all so close on lap time that it’s really the only way you’re going to be able to pass. I think it’s going to be a cool atmosphere with the Mexico Series there and just the added fan base that brings, so I’m looking forward to going out there for the third year. We’ve been fast both years, just haven’t been able to put it all together. Hopefully the third time is a charm.”

You competed in the Chili Bowl a few weeks ago, and while dirt, that’s a tight racetrack where you have to navigate its confines and a lot of other competitors. Does that race sort of mentally prepare you for the challenges of racing at the Coliseum?

“I do think so, to a certain extent. I even had a couple of fans come up to me at the Chili Bowl and ask me what racing at the Clash is like, and I always tell them it’s a lot like indoor Midget racing, it’s very, very tight, the car’s probably way too big for the racetrack that you’re on, and it does remind me a lot of indoor Midget racing. There’s a track in Du Quoin, Illinois, that reminds me a lot of the Clash, the scale of the car versus the scale of the track, it’s very similar. I always love indoor Midget racing and Du Quoin’s truthfully one of my favorite tracks just because it’s so tight and you’re always around somebody, and the Clash is very similar to that. I’ve always enjoyed going to the Clash, just the racetrack and turning laps on it, and I’m looking forward to doing it again.”

When it comes to the Clash, and short-track racing in general, what’s acceptable and what isn’t when it comes to on-track contact?

“I don’t know, I think it’s hard to say what is acceptable and what isn’t acceptable until you’re sitting in there and you’re actually doing it in the heat of competition. I think what is acceptable is based on what other guys are doing. Until somebody kind of crosses that line and opens up the floodgates, I feel like all of us are trying to be respectful. But then once one guy does it, the next guy loses his head, and the next guy and so on and so forth. Until somebody crosses that line, it’s hard to say what that line really is, but the intensity of the field definitely ratchets it up in that race. As you go along and guys get more comfortable, once one guy starts doing it, it seems like we all start doing it.”

When it comes to short-track racing, how much do you protect what you’ve got and stand up for yourself, and how much do you say you’re going to let that go because it’s not a battle worth fighting?

“I think it’s hard, it’s definitely hard to say how much to stand your ground and what’s too much. I think it’s certainly important to stand your ground, especially at the beginning of the season. If they know they can walk right over you at the beginning of the season, they’re just going to continue to do that all throughout the season. I definitely think it’s important to stand your ground, especially at a place like the Coliseum. If the guy running fifth is right behind you and you’re running third and the guy in fourth moves you and you don’t do anything about it, well then the guys in fifth, sixth, seventh are going to do it and it’s just going to keep happening to you. So you have to stand your ground and show you’re not going to put up with that, but it is hard to say what you’re willing to do to not make enemies for the rest of the season. You don’t want to be the first guy to do it. I think if you’re giving payback, that’s one thing, but I don’t think you want to be the first guy to make the move to make the enemy.”

Is there a first-day-of-school feeling when you show up for the Clash?

“For sure. You take two and a half months off, you’re excited to see your friends back in the garage area, you’re excited to get back in the car. I feel like the last two years we’ve done it there, I get nervous going out for the first practice session for whatever reason. Just finally getting back in the car again, sitting in the car and I’m complaining about how the gas pedal feels, how the brake pedal feels, nothing like what it normally is, it’s the same thing I’ve always done but it’s been two and a half months since I’ve done it. Yeah, I think there’s a little bit of nerves and the first-day-back-to-school kind of feeling. It’s always fun to have that feeling and I’m looking forward to it.”

The Busch Light Clash tees up our version of the Super Bowl – the Daytona 500. How big of a deal is that for the sport?

“It’s super critical, and obviously the timing of it all is kind of perfect. You go from the AFC and NFC championship, you have that week off and we come in and race. And then we take a week off and there’s the Super Bowl, so all those people, the football fans and sports fans who are looking for some kind of live sport, we’re kind of at the tail end of the NFL season kicking off ours, and the timing of it I always think is kind of perfect. And I think you see us taking advantage of how the football season is ending, we have a ton of viewers at the beginning of the year every year watching the West Coast swing. Hopefully we have an awesome Daytona 500 and the weather cooperates and we can take advantage of the viewership that comes with that.”

No. 14 Mahindra Tractors Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Chase Briscoe

Hometown: Mitchell, Indiana

Crew Chief: Richard Boswell

Hometown: Friendship, Maryland

Car Chief: J.D. Frey

Hometown: Ferndale, California

Engineer: Mike Cook

Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland

Spotter: Joey Campbell

Hometown: Berlin, Connecticut

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Shayne Pipala

Hometown: Frankfort Square, Illinois

Rear Tire Changer: Dakota Ratcliff

Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee

Tire Carrier: Jon Bernal

Hometown: Shelby, North Carolina

Jack Man: Dylan Moser

Hometown: Monroe, North Carolina

Fuel Man: Corey Coppola

Hometown: Bluefield, West Virginia

Road Crew Members

Underneath Mechanic: Stephen Gonzalez

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Interior Mechanic: Trevor Adams

Hometown: Naples, Florida

Tire Specialist: Keith Eads

Hometown: Arlington, Virginia

Shock Specialist: Brian Holshouser

Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina

Engine Tuner: Jon Phillips

Hometown: Jefferson City, Missouri

Transporter Co-Driver: Todd Cable

Hometown: Shelby, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Dale Lackey

Hometown: Taylorsville, North Carolina

Fans Can Race at Daytona the Days After the Daytona 500 with the NASCAR Racing Experience

By
Official Release
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THE PERFECT WAY TO WRAP UP DAYTONA SPEEDWEEKS PRESENTED BY ADVENT HEALTH: NASCAR RACING EXPERIENCE TO OFFER THE ULTIMATE FAN RACING EXPERIENCE DURING SPEEDWEEKS AND ON THE DAYS FOLLOWING THE DAYTONA 500

CHARLOTTE, NC (January 30, 2024) – Headed to the Daytona 500? To add to the week of thrilling racing from NASCAR’s biggest stars, race fans can take their turn running the high-banks of Daytona International Speedway on Wednesday, February 13 through Saturday, February 17, and after the Daytona 500 on Monday, February 19, and Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

Motorsports’ leading fan driving experience partners – Driving 101, which operates NASCAR Racing Experience and Richard Petty Driving Experience – now offers on-track racing dates on Monday following 21 NASCAR Cup Series events on the NASCAR Cup Series circuit – including the days after the Daytona 500.

“What better way to wrap up an exciting weekend at the Daytona 500 than to race on the same track as the stars of the sport,” said Robert Lutz, CEO of Driving 101, which operates NASCAR Racing Experience and Richard Petty Driving Experience. “We’re enhancing the Daytona 500 race weekend with a high-speed adventure that’s sure to leave you smiling. Race fans, thrill seekers and corporate guests will have an opportunity to ride or drive an authentic NASCAR Cup Series race car on the same track just like their NASCAR idols did the day before in the Great American Race.”

The NASCAR Racing Experience will run at Daytona International Speedway on February 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19 and 20, 2024. Limited space is available. To book your driving experience, visit www.NASCARRacingExperience.com.

About NASCAR Racing Experience: NASCAR Racing Experience is the leading experiential racing company in North America, offering the most realistic racing programs available to motorsports fans nationwide. There’s no lead car to follow and drivers race without an instructor alongside. The drivers compete in real NASCAR race cars driven by NASCAR drivers including Joey Logano, Christopher Bell, Denny Hamlin, Michael McDowell, Ty Gibbs and Corey Lajoie, among others.

Reservations can be made at www.NASCARRacingExperience.com. Gift Cards are available for any amount and never expire. The customer service department is available seven days a week. NASCAR Racing Experience programs are conducted at 19 race tracks across the United States and offer a vast array of corporate outings and motorsports themed events. For more information call 704-886-2400 or visit www.NASCARRacingExperience.com.

17 Toyota Group Companies Share Vision and Attitudes for the Future

By
Official Release
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Toyota Group Vision: Inventing our path forward, together

Toyota City, Japan, Jan 30, 2024 – Today, Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman of the Board of Directors (Chairman) Akio Toyoda addressed an audience of chairmen, presidents, and frontline leaders from 17 Toyota Group companies(1) (the Toyota Group) at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology(2), reflecting on the company’s founding principles and outlining his vision for the Group’s future direction, “Inventing our path forward, together.” Chairman Toyoda also set forth five attitudes to be embraced by the Toyota Group employees.

As the automotive industry concept is being transformed by CASE*3 and other technological innovations, the Toyota Group is being revamped to deliver smiles and happiness to people around the world through a variety of mobility services. To achieve this goal, the Toyota Group has formulated a shared vision driven by Chairman Toyoda’s strong commitment to ensuring that all Group employees move toward the future with a common perspective and values. While originally planned for February 14, the birthday of company founder Sakichi Toyoda, the announcement was brought forward in light of recent irregularities at Group companies.

In presenting the new vision, Chairman Toyoda stated

“What I must do right now is show the direction that the Group should go in and create a place for the next generation to return to if they falter. In other words, what I must do is set forth a vision for the Group. The starting point of the Toyota Group is to make ever-better things that make many people happy; in other words, to invent. ‘Inventing our path forward, together.’ Under this vision, we all should embrace the spirit of invention within us, think of others, hone our skills, and continue to make the right things for them. In doing so, we will build a culture in which we can express gratitude to each other and become needed in the future. Today, at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, which can be considered our starting point, we made that pledge to each other. As the person responsible for the Toyota Group, I will lead the transformation, and hope that I can count on your continued support.”

The Toyota Group’s history began with Sakichi Toyoda’s invention of the Toyoda woodenn hand loom in 1890, and his subsequent founding of Toyoda Shoten. These efforts stemmed from Sakichi’s desire to make life easier for his mother. Thinking of others, learning, honing skills, making things, and bringing smiles to people’s faces―this passion for invention is the true starting point of the Toyota Group. Ever since, the Group has grown around the core mission of making people smile and contributing to society through monozukuri and invention. In the 1930s, Kiichiro Toyoda established Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., setting out to shift the Toyota Group’s focus from textiles to the automobile industry. He believed that “it is not just about making automobiles―with Japanese ideas and skills, we must create an automobile industry for Japan.” Together with many partners in parts, steel, rubber, and electronics, he laid the foundation for today’s auto industry.

Acknowledging this historical narrative, Chairman Toyoda concluded his presentation of the Group vision with the following words

“Inheriting the ambition of those who came before us, with the mobility business at our core, let’s bring smiles to the faces of people all over the world. Let’s create a future in which the children can dream more freely and prosperously. As members of the Toyota Group, let’s invent our path forward, together.”

(1) A facility established and operated jointly by the Toyota Group to impart upon younger generations the importance of both monozukuri and a spirit of research and creativity, thereby contributing to the development of society.

(2) 17 Toyota Group companies

  • Toyota Industries Corporation
  • Toyota Motor Corporation
  • Aichi Steel Corporation
  • JTEKT CORPORATION
  • Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.
  • Toyota Tsusho Corporation
  • AISIN CORPORATION
  • DENSO Corporation
  • TOYOTA BOSHOKU CORPORATION
  • TOYOTA FUDOSAN CO., LTD.
  • TOYOTA CENTRAL R&D LABS., INC.
  • Toyota Motor East Japan, Inc.
  • Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
  • Hino Motors, Ltd.
  • Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.
  • Toyota Housing Corporation
  • Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.

(3) An acronym representing new domains of technical innovation, standing for Connected, Autonomous/Automated, Shared, and Electric.

News URL: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/88785/

URL: https://plus.google.com/+toyotaglobal | Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ToyotaMotorCorporation/ | Twitter : https://twitter.com/TOYOTA_PR/ | Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/user/toyotajpchannel/ | Linkedin : https://linkedin.com/company/toyota

Lexus Announces Global Sales Results for 2023

By
Official Release
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"Electrified vehicles" includes all HEV, PHEV and BEV models

Toyota City, Japan, Jan 30, 2024 – Lexus has announced the global sales results for 2023.

The global sales results for the period from January to December 2023 reached a record high of 824,258 units (a 132% increase compared to the previous year). This growth was attributed to strong demand, particularly in North America and Japan, along with the recovery of stable parts supply contributing to increased sales. The ratio of Lexus electrified vehicle sales*1 reached a record high of 47% through the expansion and robust sales of the electrified vehicle lineup, including the new “RX” and the battery EV exclusive model “RZ.” Additionally, in the Japanese domestic market, strong sales of key models such as NX and RX led to a record high of 94,647 units (a 229% increase compared to the previous year).

Lexus International President Takashi Watanabe
“We express our sincere gratitude to each and every one of our global customers for their unwavering support of Lexus vehicles. Lexus will continue to drive unique initiatives, focusing on the development and promotion of battery electric vehicles in pursuit of realizing a carbon-neutral society. In addition, we are committed to responding promptly and accurately to customer needs, adapting to the changing times, and continuously striving to craft cars that bring joy to our customers.”

News URL: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/88784/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/LexusJP | Twitter : https://twitter.com/lexusint | Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/user/LexusGlobal

Outsmarting the Odds: Expert Strategies to Beat the Sports Books

By
SM
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Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Welcome to the thrilling world of sports betting, where understanding and outsmarting the odds can lead to significant wins. This article aims to equip you with expert strategies to beat the sports books effectively.

Understanding the Basics of Sports Betting

Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to grasp the basics of sports betting. This section will explore the different types of sports bets and how odds are calculated.

Understanding the basics of sports betting is crucial for anyone looking to engage in this popular form of gambling. Whether you are a novice bettor or a seasoned gambler, a solid foundation in the fundamentals can significantly enhance your chances of success.

Different Types of Sports Bets

Sports betting offers a variety of wager types, each with its own set of rules and strategies. The most common types include:

  1. Point Spread: This bet involves a bookmaker setting a margin (or line) that a team must win by. For instance, if the point spread is 7 points, the favored team must win by more than 7 points for a bet on them to pay off.
  2. Moneyline: This is a straightforward bet on which team will win a game. Odds are assigned to each team, reflecting the likelihood of them winning.
  3. Over/Under (Totals): Here, the bettor wagers on whether the total score of a game will be over or under a number set by the bookmaker.
  4. Parlays: This is a single bet that links two or more individual wagers and is dependent on all of those wagers winning together. While parlays offer higher payouts, they are riskier.
  5. Proposition Bets (Props): These are bets made on specific events within a game, such as which player will score first or how many yards a quarterback will throw.
  • Futures: A future bet is a wager on the outcome of a particular event or season, such as which team will win the Super Bowl or who will be named MVP.

How Odds Work in Sports Betting

Odds in sports betting are used to calculate both the probability of an event occurring and the potential return on a bet. There are three main types of odds formats:

  1. Decimal Odds: Popular in Europe, Canada, and Australia, decimal odds represent the amount one wins for every $1 wagered. For example, if the decimal odds are 4.00, a $1 bet would return $4.00 (a $3 profit plus the original $1 bet).
  2. Fractional Odds: Common in the UK, fractional odds show the potential profit. For instance, 5/1 odds mean you would win $5 for every $1 bet, plus your original bet back.
  3. American Odds (Moneyline Odds): Used in the US, these odds are expressed in terms of money. If the odds have a minus (-), it shows how much you need to bet to win $100. If they have a plus (+), they indicate how much you would win if you bet $100.

Different Types of Sports Bets

Learn about the various bets you can place, including point spreads, moneylines, and over/under bets.

How Odds Work in Sports Betting

Understanding odds is crucial in making informed bets. This part explains how odds are set and what they mean for your bets.

Expert Strategies for Beating the Sports Books

To beat the sports books, you need more than luck; you need strategy. This section covers key approaches to increase your winning chances.

Strategy 1: Bankroll Management

Effective bankroll management is the foundation of successful betting. Learn how to allocate your funds wisely.

Strategy 2: Understanding the Betting Markets

Different markets offer different opportunities. This strategy focuses on identifying the most profitable betting markets.

Advanced Betting Techniques

Elevate your betting game with advanced techniques that professional bettors use to stay ahead.

Technique 1: Value Betting

Discover the concept of value betting and how it can give you an edge over the sports books.

Technique 2: Arbitrage Betting

Learn about arbitrage betting and how it can guarantee profits regardless of the game’s outcome.

Psychological Aspects of Sports Betting

Sports betting is not just about numbers; it’s also about mindset. Understand how to manage losses and maintain discipline.

Dealing with Losses

Learn strategies to cope with losses and avoid common emotional pitfalls.

Maintaining Discipline

Discipline is key in betting. This section emphasizes the importance of sticking to a strategy.

The Role of Information in Sports Betting

Information is power, especially in sports betting. Learn how to gather and analyze data to make better betting decisions.

Importance of Research and Analysis

Understand why thorough research and analysis are crucial for successful betting.

Utilizing Statistical Data

Learn how to use statistical data to your advantage in predicting game outcomes.

Leveraging Technology in Sports Betting

Technology has transformed sports betting. Discover how tools and mobile betting can enhance your betting experience.

Use of Betting Software and Tools

Explore how betting software and tools can aid in making more informed bets.

The Impact of Mobile Betting

Understand how mobile betting has changed the landscape of sports betting and how you can benefit from it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, beating the sports books requires a combination of knowledge, strategy, and discipline. Remember to bet responsibly and enjoy the process of learning and applying these expert strategies.

Josh Williams to Run L.A. Clash with Kaulig Racing

By
Official Release
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Williams will drive the No. 16 Alloy Employer Services Camaro ZL1 at the L.A. Coliseum and Atlanta Motor Speedway

 Lexington, N.C. (Jan. 29, 2024) – Kaulig Racing announces that Josh Williams will run the No. 16 Alloy Employer Services Camaro ZL1 in select NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) races during the 2024 season, beginning with the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum on Feb. 4.

Williams, who is set to compete full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) with Kaulig Racing, made three NCS starts in 2022 with B.J. McLeod Motorsports. He finished on the lead lap twice and finished an average of 10 spots higher than where he started each race.

“Getting another opportunity in the Cup Series is humbling, especially with a team like Kaulig Racing,” Williams said. “I’ve been spending time in the sim with Team Chevy, and that’s been a huge help in getting comfortable and acclimated to the L.A. Coliseum. Short track racing is my background, and it doesn’t get much shorter than at The Clash. I’m ready for the challenge.”

Although Williams is in his first few months of working with Kaulig Racing, he has had a significant impact on the team and its leadership.

“Josh has impressed us at Kaulig Racing with how quickly he’s gotten up to speed in sim testing, so we knew we needed to work together to get him in the No. 16 Cup car in Los Angeles,” team president Chris Rice said. “Alloy Employer Services’ enthusiasm to get involved with our Cup and Xfinity programs has made it easy to give this the green light, and we’re hopeful that there will be a handful of Cup starts with Josh, Alloy Employer Services, and Kaulig Racing this season.”

In addition to the Clash, Williams will pilot the No. 16 Alloy Employer Services Camaro ZL1 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in the Ambetter Health 400 on Feb. 25 with additional NCS starts announced at a later date.

“We are excited to embark on this new chapter of racing with Josh Williams as he starts this season with Kaulig Racing,” said Alloy Employer Services CMO Chris Estey. “Josh has been a big part of Alloy over the last four seasons, and we can already tell that Kaulig Racing will be a big part of Josh. To say we are excited to see what’s next is an understatement! Alloy and our partners can’t wait to experience the Clash at the Coliseum this Sunday. We’re anticipating great things this season, and from everything we’ve heard recently, fans are just as excited as we are to see what unfolds in 2024.”

Williams will attempt to qualify for the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum through his heat race on Saturday, Feb. 3. He will compete in the No. 11 Kaulig Racing Chevy Camaro for the NXS Championship in 2024, starting with the season opener at Daytona International Speedway on February 17.

 About Alloy Employer Services

Since 1999, Alloy has helped to reduce costs and simplify administration for employers dealing with the complexities of workforce management. Alloy’s unique service model and approach to workers’ compensation and risk management allows clients to focus on their core mission with the confidence that they are supported by an efficient and effective coverage model for worksite injury along with other valuable benefits.

 About Kaulig Racing™

Kaulig Racing™ is a full-time multi-car NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) team, owned by award winning entrepreneur, Matt Kaulig. Established in 2016, Kaulig Racing™ has made the NXS Playoffs consecutively each season since the playoff system started and has won back-to-back regular-season championships. Before becoming a full-time NCS team, Kaulig Racing made multiple starts in the 2021 NCS season and won in its seventh-ever start with AJ Allmendinger’s victory at “The Brickyard” for the Verizon 200 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The team expanded to a two-car, full-time NCS team in 2022 and added a third, part-time entry during the 2023 season. In 2024, the team will once again field two, full-time entries in the NCS and continue to field three, full-time NXS entries. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

Winward Racing Secures Second Rolex 24 At Daytona Victory in Four Years as Korthoff Preston Motorsports Moves IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Title Defense Off to a Winning Start

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Florida – Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing team Winward Racing secured its second Rolex 24 At Daytona GT Daytona (GTD) race win in the last four years while Korthoff Preston Motorsports moved its IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup (IMEC) title defense off to a fast start this weekend in the 62nd running of America’s premier 24-hour race at Daytona International Speedway. Russell Ward, Philip Ellis, Indy Dontje and Daniel Morad co-drove the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 to the team’s second Rolex 24 GTD win Saturday and Sunday at the “World Center of Racing” following 2021’s initial victory. Mike Skeen, Mikael Grenier, Kenton Koch and Maximilian Götz in turn finished fifth in GTD while securing enough segment points during the race to win the opening round of the 2024 IMEC in the GTD division.

Winward’s convincing victory was the second in a row and third in four years for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing teams in the Rolex 24. In addition to Winward’s pair of victories, WeatherTech Racing secured the GTD Pro win in last year’s Rolex 24.

Including Lone Star Racing, which finished eighth in its Rolex 24 debut, the three Mercedes-AMG GT3 entries competing in the GTD class combined to lead 424 of the race’s 731 laps over the 24 hours. The total was anchored by Winward’s GTD class-high 383 laps up front that saw each of the team’s four drivers lead the race at least once.

Morad was at the wheel for the finish and steadily opened a gap in the final 23 laps for a 2.731 seconds margin of victory. All four Winward drivers captured their second Rolex 24 victories, with Morad first earning the title in GTD in 2017 and Ward, Ellis and Dontje all part of Winward’s maiden Daytona victory in 2021.

Reigning IMEC GTD champions, the No. 32 Korthoff Preston Motorsports team and drivers battled in the lead pack for the majority of the race and led a total of 36 GTD laps. The team was ultimately just a tick off the front runners in the final fight to the finish, but they backed up their fifth-place result at the checkered flag by winning Daytona’s opening round of the IMEC in the GTD class.

The Daytona IMEC win was anchored by a first-place finish in the opening segment of the season at the race’s six-hour mark. The Korthoff Preston team and drivers and Mercedes-AMG head into round two of the five race IMEC championship in March at Sebring International Raceway leading the GTD standings.

Lone Star’s initial attempt at the Rolex 24 rarely looked like a first-time effort as team drivers Scott Andrews, Adam Christodoulou, Salih Yoluç and Rui Andrade joined Winward and Korthoff Preston in frequently contending for the lead. The No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 led five laps and finished eighth only because of some pit procedure penalties and an untimely late caution knocked them from a likely top-five result. Yoluç, Andrade and Andrews are set to co-drive the Lone Star No. 80 in the Sebring 12 Hour race in March.

Another race-leading performance was turned in by SunEnergy1 Racing that was the lone Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing team competing in the GTD Pro class. Kenny Habul, Maro Engel, Jules Gounon and Luca Stolz co-drove the No. 75 SunEnergy1 Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 and, after leading six laps, were just settling in to battle with the class leaders Saturday evening when the entry retired with a technical issue.

Winward’s top weekend also included a close second-place finish in Friday’s season-opening IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge race. With Morad once again the closing driver, the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4 was catching the race leader on the final lap but settled for the runner-up result 1.936 seconds behind the race winner. Morad co-drives with Russell Ward’s father Bryce Ward who ran in the top-10 throughout his race-opening stint in the eight-hour race.

The Daytona opener also saw the debut of Mercedes-AMG GT4 standouts Michai Stephens and Jesse Webb who scored a top-10 Pilot Challenge GS-class finish in the No. 34 JMF Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT4.

Next up for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing teams in both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge is the 72nd running of the 12 Hours of Sebring, March 14 – 16 at Sebring International Raceway.

Russell Ward, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “This one is pretty special to me. The first victory wasn’t luck of course, everybody put their work in, but to come here and do it again is a great feeling. Our work really began at the mid-December test. We experienced the new Michelin tire, which is quite different from last year’s tire, and we just kind of set the car for the long run. That’s what we all like. You can put a fast lap together, but at the end of the day you just want a car that is good on the long run. The team did a great job on that, and that was big for our race this weekend. We have had a pretty consistent crew the last five years that has stayed with us and that really helps us be successful.”

Philip Ellis, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “We have done a flawless job. Our Mercedes-AMG GT3 was in top condition in the closing stages as well and that is the basic requirement to be able to push at the end. Generally, Winward Racing has done a great job. The strategy was always right and that is how we were able to work our way up step by step and remain in front. At the end, we had to give it our all once again, but fortunately, we had the better outcome. I am simply just grateful for being here.”

Daniel Morad, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 and Mercedes-AMG GT4: “It was just a perfect weekend, starting with the Michelin Pilot Challenge. We definitely had the performance against us, but we really over-achieved big time for the championship. Once that was all finished the focus went on to the big race with the Rolex 24. I just had a feeling we would be in the hunt. We worked so hard on the prep, Winward Racing gave us just an unbelievable car, and the Mercedes-AMG GT3 was just incredible with the tire degradation. That was a big key to the win: we had the rear tire, and the other guys did not.”

Indy Dontje, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “Obviously, it is a great feeling. A two-time winner of the Rolex 24 is a really amazing feeling, and I am happy to be able to do it together again with Winward Racing and all of our teammates from the first win. Daniel wasn’t there for the first one, but I am really happy he joined us for this race together. It was an exciting race at the end, and I really couldn’t watch!”

Maximilian Götz, Driver – No. 32 Korthoff Preston Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “Fifth place is not what we had in mind. We had a very good pace at times but lost it again. Especially in comparison with Winward Racing, we have to sit down and analyze this. The heat in the last six or seven hours caused us problems. Unfortunately, we also had a drive-through penalty. The rear wheel spun in the air during a pit stop, which is not allowed. That threw us a bit out of rhythm. Congratulations to Winward Racing who did a great job. They were the benchmark. It’s nice to have a star at the top.”

Kenton Koch, Driver – No. 32 Korthoff Preston Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “It feels good to get the endurance cup off to a good start but this year we want to go for wins and this weekend we fell short. It was unfortunate, and it wasn’t for a lack of trying, that’s for sure. Everyone here did everything they could this weekend. We were fast for a lot of the race and in certain conditions we just were not. That’s just how it goes sometimes but I feel very fortunate to be here again for the endurance races this year.”

Mike Skeen, Driver – No. 32 Korthoff Preston Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “The guys did an awesome job. We ran a really good race but unfortunately at the end we just didn’t have the pace the front-running cars had. We were in the mix all night, and kept the car up there without any mistakes, and not banging it up, but when the pace went up in the morning, we just didn’t have it. Frustrating in a lot of ways but very proud of the team and good points to start the season.”

Adam Christodoulou, Driver – No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “What a roller coaster of a race. I started the race and straight away the car felt really, really nice. We were really on the backfoot here, this was kind of a last-minute deal and we missed all of the testing the other teams were able to do, but I was still happy to get the call up just five days before the Roar test. We started almost last and moved up to second, but some penalties and safety cars kept us always fighting to get back into the top three. In the end we were sixth but got caught out when we just passed the pits as a safety car came out. That led to some other issues and our race was basically done. I think we would have had a podium for sure but staying out of trouble is so key for this race.”

Scott Andrews, Driver – No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “It was a massive effort from everybody involved just to get here. We were the last car entered in this year’s Rolex 24. Less than two weeks ago the car we raced wasn’t even in IMSA specifications and we didn’t even have a full team assembled. I think if you had told us two weeks ago we would get a top-10, we would have taken it, but everybody saw how the race went. With our driver lineup and the pace of the Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3, I think we deserved a podium for sure.”

Maro Engel, Driver – No. 75 SunEnergy1 Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “We had a good car and a great team. Many thanks to SunEnergy1 Racing! The team spirit was great, and the car handled really well at the beginning of the race. However, we had an issue with the fuel system that forced us to retire. Sadly, something like that happens at times, there isn’t much one can do about it. Too bad, but we will fight back and compete for victory again next year. The atmosphere at Daytona was really great thanks to the record crowd.”

Bryce Ward, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “We were hoping for a top-10 on Friday but honestly that was a win. To get a second-place finish is just incredible. The strategy just worked out so well, the pit stop crew worked so hard and were the reason we jumped two competitors, and what can you say about Daniel. He fought every single lap. So proud of everybody.”

Jesse Webb, Driver – No. 34 JMF Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT4: “We are getting in the rhythm, knowing how the pit stops work, knowing how IMSA works, just learning how everything operates. It was good to have that long race to give us more time to build an understanding of this big step and we learned a lot. We are definitely looking forward to building on that and Michai and I are both extremely grateful to even be here. Everybody on this entire JMF team worked extremely hard to have us here at Daytona and to get a top-10 in our first outing in GS is a great step. We will keep moving forward.”

Michai Stephens, Driver – No. 34 JMF Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT4: “We raised our flag high for the JMF Motorsports crew, and we did it with the support of Mercedes-AMG, rolling on Michelin tires, and we appreciate it all greatly. Long story short, we now know the height of the mountain, how far we need to climb, and I think as a unit we will be able to surpass that. This was our IMSA GS debut, and for the team in its entirety as well, so we are just going to continue to be one big family moving forward and the bond will grow stronger.”

Love’s RV Stops to Headline Team Branding in 2024

By
Official Release
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McDowell and Riggs to Carry Love’s Colors for Half of Season in Cup and Truck Series

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 29, 2024) – For the 12th consecutive season, Love’s, will be the featured partner on the No. 34 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series and will again be a cornerstone partner of the No. 38 Ford F-150 in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Love’s is the longest tenured partner of Front Row Motorsports (FRM) and now has a multiyear agreement extending beyond this season.

Both Michael McDowell and Layne Riggs will carry Love’s and Speedco, a member of the Love’s Family of Companies, colors to represent the leading travel stop network in the country and new this year will be Love’s RV Stops taking prominent branding on both vehicles.

Love’s RV Stops are located at or adjacent to Love’s Travel Stops across the country and provide NASCAR fans and campers with a safe, clean, and well-maintained place to park and camp with family and friends while attending races or while on your adventure. Each stop is equipped with hookups and all the amenities that fans are already familiar with at Love’s Travel Stops including showers, laundry, restaurants, fuel, and snacks. All Love’s RV Stops are pet friendly.

Love’s will begin their season at the Daytona 500 and the Daytona Fresh From Florida 250. Love’s helped power McDowell to the 2021 Daytona 500 win and is the two-time consecutive and defending winner of the Fresh From Florida 250.

“The future is Love’s and Love’s RV Stops yellow for our program,” quipped McDowell. “I have said it before, there is a huge sense of pride from myself and our team to carry the Love’s colors and represent their employees, customers and trucking fleets across the country who trust Love’s every day to keep them moving on the road. There are few partners in NASCAR who can boast such a long-term relationship with one car, but Love’s in becoming synonymous with the No. 34 team. It is a lot of fun to be a part of it and I am grateful for the partnership.”

New to the program this year is Riggs who will compete half of his season with the new Love’s RV Stops, Love’s Travel Stops and Speedco colors.

“The Love’s Ford F-150 has quickly become a favorite in the truck series,” commented Riggs. “And now we’re going to have the scheme for half of our season with Love’s RV Stops. I think it’s cool that we’re starting fresh and new with this branding with our team and myself. I am looking forward to representing Love’s this season and continuing their championship ways.”

You can visit www.loves.com to learn more about Love’s Family of Companies.

ABOUT LOVE’S TRAVEL STOPS

Love’s has been fueling customers’ journeys since 1964. Innovation and perseverance continue to lead the way for the family-owned and -operated business headquartered in Oklahoma City with more than 40,000 team members in North America and Europe. The company’s core business is travel stops and convenience stores with 640 locations in 42 states. Love’s continues its commitment to offer products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, four-wheel customers, RVers, alternative fuel and wholesale fuel customers. Giving back to communities Love’s serves and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workplace are hallmarks of the company’s award-winning culture.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Ralphs, Food 4 Less/Foods Co. Partner with City of Hope to Welcome Ricky Stenhouse Jr. to Los Angeles for NASCAR Cup Series Race

By
Official Release
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Plus Gear Up for Mobile Health Clinic Circuit

Retailers blanketing hood of the No. 47 Camaro in partnership with City of Hope for the February 4th event at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, kickoff the Team Tune-Up mobile health clinic.

LOS ANGELES (January 29, 2024) – – As Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Grocery Company are featured on Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s wrapped car for the NASCAR Cup Series exhibition race at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in partnership with the City of Hope, the grocers also gear up for the Ralphs Pharmacy/Kroger Health mobile health clinic Team Tune-Up tour in Southern California during February.

“All of us at Ralphs and Food 4 Less/Foods Co. are excited to partner with 2023 Daytona 500 Champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and the No. 47 Camaro team,” said Salvador Ramirez, corporate affairs manager for Ralphs and Food 4 Less/Foods Co. “Best of all, we’re using our partnership with Ricky to make a difference in the community by encouraging our communities to check in with their own well-being by bringing healthcare services directly to them with our Kroger Health Team Tune-Up mobile unit during the month of February, while supporting the City of Hope’s programs.”

Stenhouse Jr., who is a three-time NASCAR Cup Series winner, is getting behind the program and the wheel of the No. 47 Food 4 Less/Ralphs Camaro featuring City of Hope to shed more light on their fight to save lives and how fans can help ahead of the race. The wrapped car will also circuit during the mobile health clinic tour this February.

“Throughout the season, The Kroger Co. banners, like Food4Less and Ralphs for example, passionately contribute to the community and create unique ways using our racing assets to reach millions of brand loyal consumers,” said Stenhouse Jr. “The work that both retailers have done with City of Hope to raise millions and millions of dollars to support research, treatment and education is astounding. We’re humbled to be a part of this program.”

The unveiling of the No. 47 show car coinciding with a donation to the City of Hope will kick off the Ralphs Pharmacy/Kroger Health Team Tune-Up tour, which offers vaccinations and free health screenings to Southern California residents and business partners.

“At City of Hope, we know that patients with cancer do not have time to wait,” said Joe Watterson, Vice President, Corporate Philanthropy at City of Hope. “Generous support from Ralphs and Food4Less/Foods Co., our long-standing philanthropic partners, allow world-class researchers to turn scientific breakthroughs into lifesaving treatments with great speed. We are grateful and excited featured in this NASCAR event to help raise awareness of the life-saving work at City of Hope.”

Ralphs Pharmacy/Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), is committed to driving engagement in preventative and interventive care. The “Team Tune-Up” mobile health clinic provides a way to receive vaccines and free health screenings while on-site at various events throughout Southern California. Customers can also learn more about filling prescriptions and ways to save with Kroger Health Savings Club (www.krogerhealthsavings.com).

Tune in on Sunday, February 4th, for the 150-Lap Clash at the Coliseum beginning at 8 PM ET on FOX, MRN and SIRIUSXM (Ch. 90).

About Ralphs Grocery Company:

Ralphs Grocery Company is dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. We are more than 18,000 associates serving customers in 184 supermarkets across Southern California. From the company’s headquarters in Los Angeles County, Ralphs is a recognized leader in community service and giving. The company supports Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative aimed at ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste within our company by the year 2025. Ralphs is a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., (NYSE:KR), one of the world’s largest retailers, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more about Ralphs, please visit our website at www.ralphs.com.

About Kroger Health:

Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co., is one of America’s leading retail healthcare organizations. Kroger Health and the Kroger Family of Companies’ pharmacies and clinics operate more than 2,200 pharmacies and 220 clinics in 35 states serving more than 17 million customers annually. Our team of 24,000 healthcare practitioners, including pharmacists, nurse practitioners, dietitians and technicians, believe in practicing at the top of our licenses, enabling “food as medicine” to help prevent disease before it starts, and helping people live healthier lives. For more information, visit https://www.kroger.com/health.

About Food 4 Less/Foods Co.:

We are dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. Food 4 Less/Foods Co. is more than 9,000 associates serving customers in 121 price-impact, warehouse-format supermarkets under the banners Food 4 Less in Southern California, Illinois and Indiana, and Foods Co in Central and Northern California. From the company’s headquarters in Los Angeles County, Food 4 Less/Foods Co. is a recognized leader in community service and giving. The company supports Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative aimed at ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste within our company by the year 2025. Food 4 Less/Foods Co. is a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., (NYSE:KR), one of the world’s largest retailers, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more information about Food 4 Less/Foods Co., please visit our websites at www.food4less.com and www.foodsco.com.

About City of Hope:

City of Hope’s mission is to deliver the cures of tomorrow to the people who need them today. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S. and one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center at its core, City of Hope brings a uniquely integrated model to patients spanning cancer care, research and development, academics and training, and innovation initiatives. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and treatment facilities in Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. City of Hope’s affiliated group of organizations includes Translational Genomics Research Institute and AccessHope. For more information about City of Hope, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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