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Pruett Takes Tony Stewart Racing Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster to No. 1 Qualifier and Quarterfinal Appearance at Sonoma Raceway

By
Official Release
-
DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals
  • Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Top Fuel pilot Leah Pruett followed up last weekend’s win at Dodge Power Brokers Mile-High Nationals with her first No. 1 qualifier position of the season at the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Sonoma Nationals and a quarterfinal appearance for the Dodge//SRT dragster
  • TSR Funny Car driver Matt Hagan earned bonus points for the second quickest run in the second qualifying session, but kicked off eliminations from the 11th spot on the ladder at Sonoma Raceway
  • Hagan remains second in the Funny Car championship standings after his day was shortened by an opening round loss after a solid Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat showdown against Cruz Pedregon
  • Pedregon’s quarterfinal performance keeps him sixth in the Funny Car points battle with four events left in the NHRA regular season

July 24, Sonoma, California — Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Top Fuel pilot Leah Pruett followed up last weekend’s win at the Dodge Power Brokers Mile-High Nationals near Denver by rolling into the 34th annual National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Sonoma Nationals and immediately taking the Rayce Rudeen Foundation Dodge//SRT Top Fuel dragster to her first No. 1 qualifier position of the season and then driving to a quarterfinal appearance in eliminations.

Pruett took the top spot on the eliminations ladder by recording a 3.689-second elapsed time pass at 327.59 mph on the first of three qualifying laps to earn TSR’s first Top Fuel pole position and the 12th of her career. After advancing to the final round at Sonoma Raceway last year, Pruett was looking to repeat that journey and kicked off eliminations with a great 0.047-second reaction time and strong 3.729 sec./328.86 mph pass against No. 16 seed Jim Maroney. 

In the quarterfinals against No. 9 seed Shawn Langdon, Pruett had another solid 3.758 sec./323.97 mph run, but it wasn’t quite enough to defeat her opponent’s 3.734 sec./330.96 mph pass. Despite the shortened day, Pruett remains sixth in the Top Fuel championship standings, tied with Langdon at 601 points.

With three wins this season and sitting second in the Funny Car points coming into the second of three consecutive western-swing events, TSR driver Matt Hagan started off the weekend by taking the DieHard Batteries Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat for a 4.018-sec./314.02 mph pass to sit in the provisional eighth spot on Friday. In Q2, he recorded the second quickest run of the session with a 4.023 sec./315.12 mph pass but ended up 11th on the eliminations ladder after hazing the tires and saving the engine on the final run.

That set up an opening round match against fellow Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat driver and No. 6 seed Cruz Pedregon. Pedregon had a slight advantage at the hit of the throttle as they raced side-by-side down the lane, and despite Hagan recording his quickest pass of the weekend, it wasn’t enough to catch the Snap-on Tools Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. Even with the early exit, Hagan retains his second place position in the Funny Car standings behind rival Robert Hight.

Pedregon continued on to the quarterfinals and lined up against No. 3 qualifier Alexis DeJoria against whom he had a stellar light with a 0.033-second reaction time, but soon lost traction and had to shut it down. The Cruz Pedregon Racing HEMI®-powered entry remains sixth in the Funny Car standings as the regular season begins to wind down with four events remaining before the “Countdown to the Championship” playoffs series begins.

The NHRA will close out the three-event western swing next weekend with the Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways near Seattle, Washington, July 29-31.

ADDITIONAL NOTES and QUOTES:

Leah Pruett, Rayce Rudeen Foundation Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster  

(No. 1 Qualifier – 3.689 seconds at 327.59 mph)  

Round 1: (0.047-second reaction time, 3.729 seconds at  328.86 mph) defeats No. 16 Jim Maroney(0.066/4.443/187.42) 

Round 2: (0.079/3.758/323.97) loss to No. 9 Shawn Langdon (0.049/3.734/330.96)

“I think our takeaway this weekend was that we were able to continue the momentum from Denver. We have a thorough understanding of our power level, and that started Friday night. We went up with a semi-conservative setup that actually ended up locking us into the No. 1 spot, so it shows we have more power, like we thought. As we moved into race day, you can’t take anyone lightly. I used to race Jim Maroney 10 to 15 years ago and I know how great of a racer he is. We put down a solid .72 and had a nice, clean run. Ultimately, we missed it for the second round. We went up to do the same thing. We were the first cars on track that session and the cars behind us were able to run a .66. We went up to run a .74 or .75 and it ran a .75, but it wasn’t good enough to get around Langdon’s .73. What that does for us is it gives us the confidence to start turning the wick back up. We’ve been racing on the shy side of power and we’ve been doing pretty well, but now we can turn back the knobs, and that’s something we haven’t been able to do. Our momentum will continue as our baseline grows and, most importantly, we were able to make a lot of connections with people about sharing the Rayce Rudeen Foundation’s mission of fighting the stigma of addiction and the support of the communities they’re building.”

Matt Hagan, DieHard Batteries Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car  

(No. 11 Qualifier – 4.018 seconds at 314.02 mph)

Round 1: (0.095-second reaction time, 4.913 seconds at 210.97 mph) loss to No. 6 Cruz Pedregon (0.076/3.939/330.23)

“It was great to be able to run the DieHard Batteries car again this weekend and bring the scheme back. We struggled a bit this weekend and got behind the eight ball. I think (Crew Chief) Dickie (Venables) really got a handle on the car in Round 1, but we had a tough run against Cruz (Pedregon). They’re a strong team over there and they qualified well. It was two good drag races but, unfortunately, it didn’t turn out in our favor. Sonoma is one of the only tracks I haven’t won at. I look forward to checking it off the list next year. It doesn’t mean we’ll keep our head down. For now, we’ll focus on Seattle and what we have coming up next week. We’ll take the information we learned here and transfer it over. The [Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat] is driving good and responding well, so we just have to be a bit more aggressive with it and we’ll be fine.”

Cruz Pedregon, Snap-on® Tools Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat

(No. 6  Qualifier – 3.900 seconds at 323.58 mph)

Round 1: (0.037-second reaction time, 3.911 seconds at 328.70 mph) defeats No. 11 Matt Hagan (0.076/3.939/330.23)

Round 2: (0.033/4.747/169.83) loss to No. 3 Alexis DeJoria (0.119/3.905/330.80)                    

“After qualifying with a great 3.90 seconds at over 323 miles per hour, we went up against none other than Matt Hagan who’s second in points and one of the great drivers and great teams of our time. It was a tough contest at 3.91 for our car to 3.93. Matt was right there in the hunt all the way down the track, but it was great to get that first round win against them. Unfortunately, we lost to Alexis DeJoria in the next round after we lost traction about 300 feet out. So that was the end of our weekend but overall a good points race for us. I think we’re going to maintain the number six spot in to Seattle, a race that I’ve been looking forward to winning for several years, even going back to the late eighties. Through the years we brought some good cars up there but haven’t been able to punch it through so we’re going to look forward to getting it into the winner’s circle up there.”

NHRA CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS STANDINGS:

Following the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Sonoma Raceway 

FUNNY CAR (season wins in parentheses)

1.   Robert Hight 1133 (5)

2.  Matt Hagan (Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat): 989 (3)

3.  Ron Capps: 923 (2)

4.  John Force: 827

5.  Bob Tasca III: 733 (1)

6. Cruz Pedregon (Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat): 647

7.  J.R. Todd: 615

8.  Alexis DeJoria: 600

9.  Tim Wilkerson: 522

10. Chad Green: 440

TOP FUEL (season wins in parentheses)

1.  Brittany Force: 982 (4)

2.  Mike Salinas: 976 (3) 

3.  Justin Ashley: 842 (2) 

4.  Steve Torrence: 804

5.  Josh Hart: 636

6.  Leah Pruett (Dodge Power Brokers): 601

6.  Shawn Langdon: 601

8.  Austin Prock: 570

9.  Doug Kalitta: 566

10. Clay Millican: 551

DodgeGarage: Digital Hub for Drag Racing News

Fans can follow all the NHRA action this season at DodgeGarage, the one-stop portal for Dodge//SRT and Mopar drag-racing news. The site includes daily updates and access to an online racing HQ, news, events, galleries, available downloads and merchandise. For more information, visit www.dodgegarage.com.

@DodgeMoparMotorsports on Instagram

The @DodgeMoparMotorsports Instagram channel continues to share content capturing Dodge//SRT Mopar drivers on the track. Fans can see action from the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series and NHRA Sportsman grassroots racers, competing in classes such as Factory Stock Showdown, Stock and Super Stock, as well as additional motorsports series.

Dodge//SRT

For more than 100 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their influence continues today as Dodge shifts into high gear with muscle cars and SUVs that deliver unrivaled performance in each of the segments where they compete.

Dodge drives forward as a pure performance brand, offering SRT versions of every model across the lineup. For the 2022 model year, Dodge delivers the drag-strip dominating 807-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock, the 797-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Redeye, the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world, and the Dodge Durango SRT 392, America’s fastest, most powerful and most capable three-row SUV. Combined, these three muscle cars make Dodge the industry’s most powerful brand, offering more horsepower than any other American brand across its entire lineup.

In 2020, Dodge was named the “#1 Brand in Initial Quality,” making it the first domestic brand ever to rank No. 1 in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS). In 2021, Dodge brand ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power APEAL Study (mass market) — making it the only domestic brand ever to do so two years in a row.

Dodge is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Mopar

This year marks the 85th anniversary of Mopar.

A simple combination of the words MOtor and PARts, Mopar offers exceptional service, parts and customer-care. Born in 1937 as the name of a line of antifreeze products, Mopar has evolved over nearly 85 years to represent both complete vehicle care and authentic performance for owners and enthusiasts worldwide.

Mopar made its mark in the 1960s during the muscle-car era with performance parts to enhance speed and handling for both on-road and racing use. Later, Mopar expanded to include technical service and customer support, and today integrates service, parts and customer-care operations in order to enhance customer and dealer support worldwide.

Complete information on Mopar is available at www.mopar.com. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Follow Dodge, Mopar and Stellantis news and video on:

Company blog: blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Media website: media.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Dodge brand: www.dodge.com

Mopar brand: www.mopar.com/

DodgeGarage: www.dodgegarage.com

Mopar blog: blog.mopar.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/dodge and www.facebook.com/mopar

Instagram: @Dodgemoparmotorsports, @dodgeofficial and @officialmopar

Twitter: @Dodge, @OfficialMopar and @StellantisNA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/dodge, https://www.youtube.com/c/mopar and www.youtube.com/StellantisNA

Tony Stewart Racing: Event Recap for the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals

By
Official Release
-

Leah Pruett & Matt Hagan
Top Fuel | Funny Car
DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals
July 22-24 | Sonoma, California

Event Recap

Leah Pruett, driver of the Rayce Rudeen Foundation Top Fuel Dragster:

● Earned No. 1 provisional qualifying position in Q1 on Friday (3.689 ET at 327.59 mph).

● Scored three bonus points for quickest run of the session.

● Maintained No. 1 qualifying position based off Q1 run on Friday. In Q2 on Saturday, Pruett ran a 5.753 ET. (Speed was unavailable due to a malfunction.)

● Secured No. 1 qualifying position based off Q1 run on Friday. In Q3 on Saturday, Pruett ran a 3.779 ET at 326.87 mph.

● Advanced to Round 2 on Sunday:

●  Round 1: 3.729 ET at 328.86 mph, defeated Jim Maroney (4.443 ET at 187.42 mph).

●  Round 2: 3.758 ET at 323.97 mph, lost to Shawn Langdon (3.734 ET at 330.96 mph).

● Currently tied with Langdon for sixth in the Top Fuel championship standings, 381 points behind leader Brittany Force.

Matt Hagan, driver of the DieHard Batteries Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car:

● Earned No. 7 provisional qualifying position in Q1 on Friday (4.018 ET at 314.02 mph).

● Dropped to No. 8 qualifying position in Q2 on Saturday (4.023 ET at 315.12 mph).

● Secured No. 11 qualifying position based off Q1 run on Friday. In Q3 on Saturday, Hagan ran a 4.160 ET at 239.44 mph.

● Eliminated following Round 1 on Sunday:

●  Round 1: 3.939 ET at 330.23 mph, lost to Cruz Pedregon (3.911 ET at 328.70 mph).

● Currently second in the Funny Car championship standings, 144 points behind leader Robert Hight.

Notes of Interest

● Pruett earned her first No. 1 qualifier of the season and her second at Sonoma. Her other No. 1 start at Sonoma came in 2017.

● Pruett’s No. 1 qualifier delivered Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) its first Top Fuel pole in its inaugural season in the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series. It was TSR’s fifth overall No. 1 qualifier, as Matt Hagan has secured the pole four times this season in Funny Car.

● Following Q1 on Friday, Pruett was the No. 1 provisional qualifier for the third time in 2022.

Leah Pruett, Driver of the Rayce Rudeen Foundation Top Fuel Dragster

“I think our takeaway this weekend was that we were able to continue the momentum from Denver. We have a thorough understanding of our power level, and that started Friday night. We went up with a semi-conservative setup that actually ended up locking us into the No. 1 spot, so it shows we have more power, like we thought. As we moved into race day, you can’t take anyone lightly. I used to race Jim Maroney 10 to 15 years ago and I know how great of a racer he is. We put down a solid .72 and had a nice, clean run. Ultimately, we missed it for the second round. We went up to do the same thing. We were the first cars on track that session and the cars behind us were able to run a .66. We went up to run a .74 or .75 and it ran a .75, but it wasn’t good enough to get around Langdon’s .73. What that does for us is it gives us the confidence to start turning the wick back up. We’ve been racing on the shy side of power and we’ve been doing pretty well, but now we can turn back the knobs, and that’s something we haven’t been able to do. Our momentum will continue as our baseline grows and, most importantly, we were able to make a lot of connections with people about sharing the Rayce Rudeen Foundation’s mission of fighting the stigma of addiction and the support of the communities they’re building.”

Matt Hagan, Driver of the DieHard Batteries Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car

“It was great to be able to run the DieHard Batteries car again this weekend and bring the scheme back. We struggled a bit this weekend and got behind the eight ball. I think Dickie (Venables, crew chief) really got a handle on the car in Round 1, but we had a tough run against Cruz (Pedregon). They’re a strong team over there and they qualified well. It was two good drag races but, unfortunately, it didn’t turn out in our favor. Sonoma is one of the only tracks I haven’t won at. I look forward to checking it off the list next year. It doesn’t mean we’ll keep our head down. For now, we’ll focus on Seattle and what we have coming up next week. We’ll take the information we learned here and transfer it over. The car is driving good and responding well, so we just have to be a bit more aggressive with it and we’ll be fine.”

Next Up

The next event on the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series schedule is the Flav-R-Pac NHRA Northwest Nationals July 29-31 at Pacific Raceways in Kent, Washington. The event will serve as the third and final race of the NHRA’s Western Swing.

Toyota Gazoo Racing North America NHRA Sonoma Post-Race Report — 7.24.22

By
Official Release
-

THREE TOYOTA SEMI-FINALISTS IN SONOMA
Langdon, Kalitta and DeJoria Continue Western Swing With Semi-Final Points

SONOMA, Calif. (July 24, 2022) – Shawn Langdon continued his streak of final and semi-final round appearances in recent weeks after making it to the semi-finals again in Sunday’s Top Fuel competition at Sonoma Raceway. Langdon was faster on reaction time, but ran a 3.787 to Brittany Force’s 3.675. Doug Kalitta also made a semi-final round appearance in Sonoma against Mike Salinas, but his 4.354 fell to Salinas’ 3.844.

In Funny Car, Alexis DeJoria continued her strong Sonoma performance by making a semi-final appearance, but her solid 3.933 fell to John Force’s 3.909.

Toyota Post-Race Recap
NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series
Sonoma Raceway
Race 12 of 22

TOYOTA TOP FUEL FINISHING POSITIONS

NameCarFinal ResultRound-by-Round
Shawn LangdonCMR Construction and Roofing Toyota Top Fuel DragsterSemi-FinalsW. 3.743 vs. 3.763 (A. Brown) W. 3.734 vs. 3.758 (L. Pruett) L. 3.787 vs. 3.675 (B. Force)
Doug KalittaMac Tools Toyota Top Fuel DragsterSemi-FinalsW. 3.719 vs. 3.966 (R. August Jr.) W. 3.728 vs. 3.781 (J. Hart) L. 4.354 vs. 3.844 (M. Salinas)
Justin AshleyPhillips Connect Toyota Top Fuel DragsterRound 2W. 3.752 vs. 3.803 (A. Laughlin) L. 3.937 vs. 3.701 (M. Salinas)
Steve TorrenceCapco Contractors Toyota Top Fuel DragsterRound 2W. 3.687 vs. 5.513 (T. Schumacher) L. 3.716 vs. 3.663 (B. Force)
Antron BrownMatco Tools Toyota Top Fuel DragsterRound 1L. 3.763 vs. 3.743 (S. Langdon)

TOYOTA FUNNY CAR FINISHING POSITIONS 

NameCarFinal ResultRound-by-Round
Alexis DeJoriaBandero Tequila Toyota GR Supra Funny CarSemi-FinalsW. 3.905 vs. 4.935 (T. Haddock) W. 3.905 vs. 4.747 (C. Pedredon) L. 3.933 vs. 3.909 (J. Force)
J.R. ToddDHL Toyota GR Supra Funny CarRound 2W. 3.999 vs. 4.774 (T. Wilkerson) L. 3.958 vs. 3.932 (J. Force)
Ron CappsNAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota GR Supra Funny CarRound 1L. 3.920 vs. 3.892 (J. Force)

TOYOTA QUOTES

SHAWN LANGDON, CMR Construction and Roofing Toyota Top Fuel Dragster, Kalitta Motorsports

Final Result: Semi-Finals

How do you feel about the progress your team has been making in recent weeks?

“We lost a good drag race in the semifinals today. Our CMR Toyota dragster has been really strong lately. This was our fourth semifinal in five races. I am looking forward to getting to Seattle.”

DOUG KALITTA, Mac Tools Toyota Top Fuel Dragster, Kalitta Motorsports

Final Result: Semi-Finals

How did it feel to make it to the semi-finals here in Sonoma?

“That was nice to make it to the semis, it’s been a while since we’ve been there. Really proud of my guys, they had that thing really running in the day. We were running low 70s and that was fun. It really was a lot of fun, but unfortunately I think we oiled it down on that last run so I don’t know what that’s all about for our points deal. We just get what we got here and we’ll move onto the next one. “

Do you feel like you’re making progress with the race team and race cars this season?

“It’s pretty exciting. Allen (Johnson) and Brian (Huseman) are obviously the best in the business. They’ve been finding different deals that have been going on with this car and we’re slowly working through them. This weekend was definitely a sign that we’re figuring this thing out. I’m real happy with those guys, but not real happy with my lights this weekend so I just need to work on that a little bit. We’ll head up to Seattle and get back after it.”

ALEXIS DEJORIA, Bandero Tequila Toyota GR Supra Funny Car, DC Motorsports

Final Result: Semi-Finals

How do you feel about your performance this weekend in Sonoma?

“I have to say that we all have the confidence back that we needed after Denver. Our DC Motorsports, Bandero, Rockit, Toyota GR Supra was very consistent through qualifying, we qualified third. We were like a bracket car. I can’t say enough about what a great crew I have and what an amazing group of guys and tuners and all these guys that work so well together. I got that confidence back consistent and then when I really needed to get on that pedal on time, I pulled it off. Halfway down the track, I didn’t see John (Force) at all and I was starting to celebrate and then at the finish line I saw the nose of his car. You just can’t count that man out and he’s the reason a lot of us love this sport. I love my guys more and my team and that badass race car.”

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 60 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 48,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 43 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 the more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, more than a quarter of the company’s 2021 North American sales were electrified.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Team Chevy drinks in success in Sonoma wine country

By
Official Release
-

CHEVROLET RACING IN NATIONAL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION
DENSO NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS
SONOMA RACEWAY IN SONOMA, CALIFORNIA
JULY 24, 2022

Team Chevy drinks in success in Sonoma wine country

• Brittany Force wins fourth race of season, retakes top spot in Top Fuel points
• Points leader Erica Enders earns sixth Pro Stock victory of the season
• John Force reaches Funny Car final round for 263rd time in his career
• No. 1 qualifier Robert Hight increases points lead in Funny Car standings

SONOMA, Calif. (July 24, 2022) — It was day of firsts for Chevrolet female drivers and an impressive day overall for Team Chevy in wine country.

Brittany Force moved to the top of the Top Fuel standings with her first career victory at Sonoma Raceway and fourth win of the season in the Flav-R-Pac/Monster Energy Chevrolet dragster.

Erica Enders also earned her first Pro Stock victory in 18 years competing at the track and her sixth win of the season in the Melling Performance/Elite Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro SS.

Force, the No. 5 qualifier, reset her track Top Fuel speed record three times in eliminations – with a best of 337.75 mph to break the 335.15 mark set in July 2019. She defeated Mike Salinas, who was the points leader, in the final for her 15th career win.

“Incredible race day for this Flav-R-Pac/Monster Energy team. Coming into races, you go off of how you have done in the past and we’ve always struggled with the Western Swing. Sonoma has always been one I’ve wanted to win. It’s almost a home track for me. I’ve watched my dad as a kid with my sisters, raced Super Comp and A-Fuel, celebrated all the other John Force Racing team wins, to be able to pull this win is huge,” Force said.

Enders, the Pro Stock points leader, won on a holeshot in the final to deny Greg Anderson of a milestone victory.

“Anytime you can have one of these awesome Wallys in your hands is a good day,” said Enders, who claimed her 39th career Pro Stock win. “I had never won here at Sonoma Raceway so this one means a whole bunch to me.”

Anderson, driving the HendrickCars.com Camaro SS, is seeking his 100th career Pro Stock win. Only John Force (155) has triple-digit wins in the pro categories.

Force, the No. 15 qualifier advanced to his second Funny Car final this season in the PEAK/BlueDEF Platinum Chevrolet Camaro SS and 263rd of his career before falling to Bob Tasca III.

Robert Hight increased his Funny Car points lead to 144 over Matt Hagan with a semifinal appearance in the Automobile Club of Southern California Camaro SS. Hight, who had won the past three Funny Car races at Sonoma Raceway, was the No. 1 qualifier for the 74th time in his career.

Austin Prock, the No. 12 qualifier in the Montana Brand/Rocky Mountain Twist Chevrolet dragster, bettered his qualifying elapsed time in the first round of eliminations but was paired with Force.

Anderson bested KB Racing teammate Kyle Koretsky in the Lucas Oil Camaro SS, while No. 1 qualifier Enders defeated Elite Motorsports teammate Aaron Stanfield in the Janac Brothers Camaro SS in the semifinals.

The third and final round of the Western Swing is July 29-31 in Kent, Washington, with the Flav-R-Pac NHRA Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways. FOX will telecast eliminations at 4 p.m. ET July 31. Aaron Stanfield defeated Greg Anderson in the Pro Stock final, while Brittany Force was the No. 1 Top Fuel qualifier in 2021.

An interview with Top Fuel winner BRITTANY FORCE, driver of the Flav-R-Pac/Monster Energy Chevrolet dragster:

YOU’VE WATCHED YOUR DAD WIN HERE AND TO NOW WIN HERE HOW IS THAT DIFFERENT?

“I’ve always wanted to win here since I was a kid. This is a big win. We finally pulled it off.”

YOU HAD A DOMINANT CAR TODAY. TALK ABOUT YOUR DAY.

“To be able to come out on race day and step it up is incredible. The best we ran all weekend is here today. It’s David Grubnic, Mac Savage and all the Flav-R-Pac team to be able step it up and prove it on race day.”

YOU PUT UP RIDICULOUS SPEEDS UP THERE TODAY.

“To be able to leave our mark here with a win and then hit those speeds, we’re excited to do that.”

THIS IS A SPECIAL ONE THAT YOU NEVER COULD QUITE GET UNTIL TODAY.

“It is. This is wine country, Sonoma, and I love it here. I’ve been coming here since I was a kid running Super Comp, A Fuel, (sister) Courtney won here in Sonoma and brought home that win goblet. We got the job done.”

DO YOU FEEL BAD ABOUT BEATING MIKE SALINAS IN HIS HOME RACE?

“I never feel bad about getting in the winner’s circle.”

WHAT AN INCREDIBLE DAY YOUR TEAM HAD.

“Big thank you to all my guys. One of the really cool things was after first round and we got the win over Austin Prock, he was in my pit helping me pack my chutes. It just shows you the kind of support that John Force Racing has. Everybody is involved. We’re all one team.”

IT’S BEEN A COUPLE OF YEARS SINCE WE’VE BEEN TO SEATTLE AND YOU’RE GOING IN THERE ON A HOT STREAK.

“We are. It feels good to come off a win and go into Flav-R-Pac’s home track and a race that they’re the title sponsor.”

An interview with Pro Stock winner ERICA ENDERS, driver of the Melling Performance/Elite Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro SS:

YOU WON ON A HOLESHOT. HOW DOES THAT CHANGE HOW YOU’RE GOING TO CELEBRATE IT?

“No different. Anytime you can have one of these awesome Wallys in your hands is a good day. Our guys really rallied; we had to change a bunch of stuff in the pit. I was throwing my helmet on, GA (Greg Anderson) was waiting for me. It was kind of one of those rush finals. We were like 150 feet short of the finish line and my engine let go; that’s why we were only 196 mph. Thank God we got it done for Melling Performance. I had never won here in Sonoma in 18 years of Pro Rock racing, so this one means a whole bunch to me. We were talking about that win goblet all weekend.”

TALK ABOUT YOUR DAY.

“Today was excellent. For 18 years victory evaded us somehow, someway. Every year at the beginning of the year m family and I sit down and we set our goals for the year. Sonoma, Indy and the world championship always seem to make an appearance on that list. So, this means a lot to me. I’m really excited. My Melling Performance team is great and my car is just running on mean.”

YOU CAME OUT WITH A MISSION THIS YEAR. EVEN YOU MUST BE SURPRISED BY YOUR SUCCESS?

“It’s definitely a pinch-me season for sure. The fashion in which we lost last year was definitely interesting. It gave my guys and myself the motivation to go back and just come out better and stronger. That’s what we’ve done so far this year. We just have to make it last. Those final six races in the Countdown are the ones that matter. What a dream season. What an excellent start. I couldn’t be more proud.”

WHAT ABOUT THE RIVALRY YOU AND GREG ANDERSON HAVE?

“It’s been an honor to race alongside him. To be the best you have to beat the best and he’s been a thorn in our side my entire career. But those guys are awesome. They work hard and they have a tremendous work ethic. For my guys to go out there and beat them it means a lot to us. The rivalry continues and I know he loves it as much as we do.”

CHEVROLET FROM THE COCKPIT

TOP FUEL:

AUSTIN PROCK, JOHN FORCE RACING, MONTANA BRAND/ROCKY MOUNTAIN TWIST CHEVROLET DRAGSTER: “It was a tough match up against our teammate Brittany today, but happy she got the job done for JFR. We made a competitive pass, even on seven cylinders. Myself and the this Montana Brand/Rocky Mountain Twist team are confident that we can drop the door Friday and be competitive in Seattle next weekend. We made progress and feel like our car is capable of being a contender again. We would love to keep our reigning champ status in Seattle after next weekend.”

FUNNY CAR:

JOHN FORCE, JOHN FORCE RACING, PEAK/BLUEDEF PLATINUM CHEVROLET CAMARO SS: “It was a good day for this PEAK Chevy. Yeah, would have been better to get the win but we figured some things out from qualifying. Danny Hood and Tim Fabrisi had my hot rod running well, we were getting after it today. We’re in a good place, we’ll pick up and just get it after it again in Seattle in a couple days. Flav-R-Pac race, looking forward to putting on a show for everyone, Brittany going in there with a win, hopefully do it again.”

ROBERT HIGHT, JOHN FORCE RACING, AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHEVROLET CAMARO SS: “We had the car to beat all weekend. This Auto Club Chevy, we’re pushing it and these guys are working hard to be perfect every run. Just couldn’t get the job done today. Still in the points lead, gained some good points and we’ll just pick up and try it all over again in Seattle next week.”

PRO STOCK:

CAMRIE CARUSO, CARUSO FAMILY RACING, TEQUILA COMISARIO CHEVROLET CAMARO SS: “Dallas (Glenn) is definitely not an easy first-round pick. If we would have been a little higher in qualifying, we would have had a more favorable first round match-up possibly. We have learned a lot so far on the Western Swing. We are going to go into Seattle looking to finish the swing strong. My guys have the experience we need to keep being successful. I am not worried about that. I like being in the car a lot. This schedule is hard and people are not kidding when they say the Western Swing will test you.”

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in nearly 80 countries with nearly 2.7 million cars and trucks sold in 2021. 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.

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Race Recap

By
Official Release
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Track: Pocono Raceway
Race: M&Ms Fan Appreciation 400
Date: July 24, 2022

No. 2 Keystone Light Ford Mustang – Austin Cindric

Start: 20th

Race Finish: 31st

Stage 1 Finish: 34th

Stage 2 Finish: 33rd

Laps Led: 0

Point Standings: 15th (-292)

Race Rundown: Austin Cindric started 20th and finished 31st in Sunday’s race at Pocono Raceway. The driver of the Keystone Light Ford Mustang had a spin off turn 3 on lap eight and contacted the inside wall. The Keystone Light crew made repairs to the suspension and Cindric would solider home making up five spots in the process to finish 31st. Cindric now sits 15th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings.

Cindric’s Thoughts: “Tough day for the Keystone Light Ford Mustang. I work with some talented people that deserve a beer (or two) and a better result. Proud of my boys. I’m ready for Indy.”

No. 12 Menards/Duracell Ford Mustang – Ryan Blaney

Start: 6th

Race Finish: 33rd

Stage 1 Finish: 4th

Stage 2 Finish: 2nd

Laps Led: 7

Point Standings: 3rd (-111)

Race Rundown: Ryan Blaney started sixth and finish 33rd in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway. The driver of the Menards/Duracell Ford Mustang led seven laps on the day. In stage 1 the Menards crew opted for stage points coming home in sixth. Stage 2 saw the 12 team catch a timely caution after service. Restarting on the front row, Blaney would finish second in stage 2. He would restart the final stage from the third position. Unfortunately, he would experience a flat tire going into turn 1. His day would come to an end on lap 139 after a hard hit off turn 3. Blaney sits third in the NASCAR Cup Series standings.

Blaney’s Thoughts: “I just got loose. It was one of those things. You get loose off three and think you can save it, but you can’t. I just couldn’t save it. Gosh, I hate it for everyone on the 12 group. We finally got the car decent, and we were running top five there and had a flat tire and had to come in and then I just tried too hard and it stepped away from me. I hate it for Menards and Ford and everybody. That was my mistake. We will go at it again next week.”

No. 22 Verizon Ford Mustang – Joey Logano

Start: 14th

Race Finish: 20th

Stage 1 Finish: 15th

Stage 2 Finish: 20th

Laps Led: 0

Point Standings: 7th (-188)

Race Rundown: Joey Logano started 14th and finished 20th in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway. The driver of the Verizon Ford Mustang struggled with balance issues much of the day. Logano would run inside the top-20 much of the first stage opting to pit prior to the stage break, he would finish 17th in Stage 1. Logano would still struggle with the balance the remainder of the day coming home 22nd in Stage 2 and 20th at the finish. Logano sits seventh in the Cup Series standings.

Logano’s Thoughts: “Really tough day for the Verizon Ford Mustang. We just couldn’t get the balance where we needed it. We’ll put it behind us and look toward Indy.”

Chase Elliott Nabs Pocono Victory Following DQ of Nos. 11, 18 Cars

By
Official Release
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By Holly Cain, NASCAR Wire Service

LONG POND, PA (July 24, 2022) – Chase Elliott was declared the winner at Pocono Raceway on Sunday after the cars of Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch — who initially crossed the start/finish line first and second, respectively — were disqualified following post-race inspection.

The disqualifications also mean Richard Childress Racing’s Tyler Reddick will nab a second-place result, and Trackhouse Racing’s Daniel Suárez is third. JGR driver Christopher Bell (fourth) and Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson (fifth) complete the new top five. Complete race results

Hamlin was involved in another high-profile incident on a restart with 18 laps remaining, colliding with season rival Ross Chastain while vying side-by-side for the race lead. And even then, Hamlin’s crew chief Chris Gabehart kept reminding him of a tenuous fuel situation in the closing laps. But Hamlin kept the field at bay on the ensuing restart with 13 laps remaining and crossed first before his car failed post-race tech.

As for the incident with Chastain, Hamlin did not hesitate to answer. The two drivers have been involved in several high-profile run-ins during races this season.

“What did you want me to do? What did you expect me to do?” Hamlin said. “I got position on him, and he just ran out of race track.”

Asked if it was now over between the two and if the feud was essentially settled now, Hamlin smiled and said, “We’re gonna just keep racing hard until we get the respect back from these guys. And it’s not just that. We’ve been wrecked four times, twice while leading in the last 10 months and I’m at the end of it.”

Chastain, a two-race winner in his first season driving for Trackhouse Racing, emerged from the Infield Care Center and acknowledged the situation wasn’t entirely unexpected.

“That’s something that’s been coming to me for a few months now,” Chastain said of expecting retribution. “I’m proud of the effort by Trackhouse. To keep bringing fast cars like that is a testament to GM and Chevrolet. It was a really fast one and we’ll be back at Indy.”

Asked if he thought the score was now settled Chastain just smiled.

“I’ve been owed that and probably some more for a few months now.”

Busch, who started on the front row with Hamlin, had led a race-best 63 of the 160 laps.

It was a significant day for 19-year-old Ty Gibbs, grandson of team owner Joe Gibbs. Gibbs was tabbed only a couple of hours before the race to fill in for 23XI Racing driver Kurt Busch, who was involved in an accident during qualifying on Saturday and not cleared medically to compete on Sunday.

Gibbs, who finished 16th in the No. 45 23XI Racing Toyota, was all smiles and gratitude after the race, even taking a moment to thank team co-owner, NBA legend Michael Jordan for the opportunity.

“I had a great time and Michael if you’re watching, I want to say, ‘thank you,’” Gibbs said. “I had a great time, and I learned a lot.”

With five regular-season races remaining, Elliott still leads the points standings with a 100-point advantage on Chastain and a 108-point edge on Ryan Blaney, who was involved in a late-race accident.

Going Electric, Preparing for a Better Future

By
SM
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Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

As electric cars continue to integrate within our roadways and grow in popularity, it is time for consumers to consider and prepare for the next step of automobiles. Electric cars provide the same adaptability as combustion-based cars while offering benefits such as improved lifespan, lower maintenance, and low carbon footprint.

With an increased number of electric cars for sale, buyers can pick the electric car that best suits their everyday needs. Whether it’s a simplistic sedan for work or a versatile SUV for the entire family, there is an electric car for any situation. Continue reading to learn about the different types of electric cars and how they can improve day-to-day living.

Types of Electric Cars

A common misconception about electric cars is that they only offer a specific subset of vehicle types when the reality is the opposite. Electric cars are already at the stage where car manufacturers have developed a consumer model for all models. The models include sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, coupes, sports cars, station wagons, vans, pickups, and more.

Consumer Ready Cars

Many car manufacturers have already created consumer viable and efficient counterparts to combustion cars. Leading electric car manufacturers such as Kia, Tesla, Ford, and Volkswagen, are actively paving the path for the future of cars.

When considering hatchbacks and SUVs, electric kia cars are contenders for the best of the best when compared to combustion vehicles. An example of a fantastic consumer-ready electric car is the new 2022 Kia EV6.

The Kia EV6 provides some insane features, a 339-mile (545km) range, and a charging time of 18 minutes at a fast-charging station. Coupled with the fact it is also an SUV that has plenty of space for passengers and cargo alike.

The EV6 is only one of the latest and greatest electric creations from Kia, other creations from car manufacturers such as Ford’s F-150 Lightning, and Volkswagen’s ID.4 SUV prove that electric cars are something consumers need to see.

Pros and Cons

Electric vehicles do have their downsides compared to combustion-based cars. The decision to swap to fully electric can be stressful and is full of many unknowns. Fortunately, as time goes on, electric vehicles will become the go-to.

The benefits of electric cars include:

  • Lower Running Costs – Electricity is cheaper than gas. After purchase, the cost of running the vehicle is much lower.
  • Environmentally Friendly – Electric cars are not free from a carbon footprint due to the energy cost of manufacturing. After the car is built and functioning, the car will not emit damaging gases to the environment compared to their combustion counterpart.
  • Government Incentives – Governments (European) will offer cash bonuses and aid when buying an electric vehicle for the first time.
  • Less Maintenance – Electric cars do not require combustion or a large piston engine. The amount of self-inflicted damage the car receives when operating is significantly lower which results in fewer visits to a mechanic.
  • Higher Resale Value – Coinciding with less self-inflicted damage, the resale value of electric cars is higher.

The detriments of electric cars include:

  • Less Range – Electric cars simply can’t hold as much ‘gas’ as a combustion vehicle with current battery technology.
  • Mindful Preparation – Forgetting to plug up an electric vehicle could spell disaster as it takes significantly more time to charge the batteries as opposed to filling up a gas tank.
  • More Expensive – The upfront cost of an electric car is much higher.

Bottom Line

Simply put, electric will be the future of automobiles. The benefits will quickly outweigh the downsides given enough time as electric cars become more efficient and convenient. A cleaner, much safer driving experience is something everyone can look forward to, why not start now?

How To Keep Your Used Motorbike In Good Condition

By
SM
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SONY DSC

Have you ever noticed some people seem to have better motorbikes than others? It may not be a question of how much they spent on the bike. It doesn’t matter how much they spent. It still seems to work well for them. Why is that so? 

There is more to a motorcycle than just the body. That’s where keeping your used motorbike in good condition comes into play. The things you do to keep your bike in good condition will affect other areas of how efficient it works and even its life expectancy.  

If you’re unsure where to start or don’t want to spend a lot of money on repairs that can be avoided, used motorcycles for sale Dallas, TX is at your service.  

Check The Coolant

If you have a used motorcycle, the coolant has likely been replaced before. A bike uses equal parts of de-ionized and anti-freeze as an engine coolant. And it’s important to check this before starting your motorbike to avoid any damage from an empty coolant tank.  

The motorcycle’s engine uses coolant to protect itself from temperature changes during summer and winter. As such, you should replace your bike’s coolant every two years. However, if the motorbike is your primary means of transport and is subject to extended mileage, there’s a high chance the coolant may need replacement more often.

Change The Oil

As with any other automotive, you should regularly change your motorcycle’s oil. The average bike will run for about 3,000-6,000 miles before it needs changing. However, most riders prefer going on an oil change when they take their bikes to Motorcycles DFW for the annual check-up. 

The frequency you need to change your bike’s oil depends on its age and the oil you use, with newer engines running more efficiently. They can also go longer between oil changes. When changing the oil on your used motorcycle, use a quality product oil.  

If you’re using synthetic oil, ensure that your bike has been tuned up correctly and running right before you take on this task. Synthetic oils are more efficient even though they are a bit more expensive.

Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly

Tires are designed to expand and contract with temperature changes, which can cause them to wear out fast. Always check the tread grooves. This way, you can find out if there are any tears, cracks, and holes that might risk your safety. Also, if your tires are worn out, they’ll need replacing, check Motorcycles For Sale in Dallas, TX .

Ensure you check your tires’ pressure before embarking on any journey. An over-deflated tire can be dangerous. You will find the recommended pressure on the side of the tire.

Clean The Air Filter

Air filters have an important role in protecting the engine’s internal parts from dust and dirt particles that can cause harm. To ensure your motorbike is in condition, you should clean the air filter regularly. Ideally, this can be done every 6,000 miles or so.  

If you always ride on dusty roads, you can clean the air filters at least once a week. On the other hand, if you stay in a place that is not congested and doesn’t smog, you can reduce the frequency of cleaning them. The bottom line is that it doesn’t matter where you live; you should regularly clean your bike’s filters.  

Check The Chain

The chain is the central part of a motorcycle, and it needs to be kept in good condition to ensure it runs smoothly. Since it’s a moving part of your motorcycle, it’s where most wear and tear occur. 

If the chain is too snug, it will wear more quickly and may break easily. A good rule of thumb is that it’s too tight if you can’t get two fingers between your bike’s sprocket and the chain. If your chain has stretched out, check its length before putting it back on your bike, so it doesn’t stretch again. 

Keeping the chain clean and free from dirt or debris is also important. It will prevent it from becoming damaged and makes sure that the gears mesh properly with each other. If the chain is dirty, use some degreaser on it to remove any dirt or grime that might be there. When cleaning the chain, use a cloth to wipe away any excess grease.

Cleaning Your Bike Regularly

Regular cleaning is necessary because dirt builds up on parts of the bike over time. And if there are cracks in any part of the bike (especially around the handlebars), regular cleaning will ensure that they don’t get worse by rusting them away. Or avoid causing other problems like corrosion due to moisture in the air or water leakage from rain or snow falling onto parts of the bike. 

You should also try to minimize your motorbike’s exposure to sunlight. Park in the shade when you can since too much exposure to sunlight may dull its appearance.  

Conclusion

Keeping your used motorbike in good condition is easier than you might think. It doesn’t have to cost much.  

There’s much you can do to improve the look of your bike and make it more enjoyable to ride. Make sure the bike is ‘serviced’ at each service you are due. It means checking the oil and ensuring everything regarding the bike’s running and working well. Thus, you should also clean it regularly. And if you feel like your old bike isn’t functioning as well as it should, then having it checked by a qualified mechanic would be ideal for keeping your motorbike in good condition.

7 Ways to Make Your Car Look Brand New

By
SM
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The definition of “comfort” has changed significantly in modern cars. Cars tend to act as glamorous sanctuaries that carry us from place to place and keep us completely comfortable at all times, in addition to offering a superior driving experience. The majority of car owners spend an absurd period of time in their vehicles, whether they are traveling to and from work, taking weekend road trips to distant hill stations, or simply making quick trips to the grocery store.

Maintaining your car in top-notch working order is required for all of this. In short term, you would have to spend some money to keep your car running, as well as look brand new. Here are some ways to ensure that your car will appear brand new as long as possible.

Fix it up

First things first, if your car has been through a lot, it is only natural for it to have some scratches or dents. You will want to fix it up, especially if it had sustained some more serious damage from for example collision with another vehicle. This is a cause for an immediate visit to the local auto body shop. So for example, if you live in a place like Perth in Ontario, you will want to search for an auto body shop that offers collision repair in Perth ON. It is best to visit the local shops because they are familiar with the local part vendors in the area and can quickly fix up your car damage. It also helps that you won’t have to tow your car miles away to an out-of-town shop.

Clean up the car 

This is the most important aspect of keeping your car’s look in top shape. Cleaning entails thorough and intense scrubbing of every car component you can reach, including the windows and windshield wipers. Instead of going to the workshop and spending more money, if you are a DIY enthusiast, you can shampoo the carpets and upholstery in your backyard or garage. 

Regular cleaning is beneficial because the amount of time spent inspecting and troubleshooting your car directly relates to how much time you spend cleaning it.

Change the air filters 

Sometimes replacing or upgrading your engine’s outdated air filter with a new, high-flow reusable filter will significantly increase your engine’s long-term survival rate, which will also improve its performance. When you purchase a new car, you’ll notice that the majority of engines have a factory-installed filter that is typically made of paper and isn’t always ideal for peak performance.

High-flow air filters provide your engine with cleaner air, increasing your vehicle’s horsepower and fuel economy. Some reusable filters, are of higher quality and last longer than standard stock filters. Additionally, high-flow air filters need to be changed less frequently than stock filters, which must be changed at least once a year.

Car rims 

The best car accessories that bring up the state in which the vehicle is in is a good set of rims. You can give your old car a more luxurious or sporty appearance by adding a fresh new set of rims. 

Choose spinning rims that will rotate while you drive if you prefer a swankier look. You might think about investing in larger wheels and tires to give your car a domineering appearance. Your best course of action would be to invest some time in your research and look for the proper size tires and rims for your car.

Change the windshield wipers

Your windows may develop streaks from old windshield wipers. These streaks can obstruct your view in addition to being unsightly both inside and outside. At the very least, replace your windshield wipers every six months.

Don’t eat in your car

Even though eating on the go can really be convenient, it is frequently messy. Even if you don’t splash anything, such as soda or ketchup, odors can linger inside the car and eventually turn foul.

Paint job

Over the years, your vehicle’s exterior can get a lot of dents and scratches from road debris or even hail. Luckily, Hail Specialists, or a similar company, should be able to fix these problems and make your vehicle look brand new. Likewise, an auto shop can easily fix any damage that has been caused by scapes and bumps into physical objects like walls. Sometimes, there isn’t even any damage to repair, and the car will just benefit from a makeover. Nothing will give your vehicle a facelift like a fresh coat of high-quality paint. However, it needs to be applied correctly and carefully, ideally by a professional. Powder coating, which doesn’t need a solvent, is the preferred method for modern vehicle painting.

Final Thoughts 

One of your most valuable possessions in life is probably your vehicle. Due to stains from food, beverages, and other substances, the interior parts are most vulnerable to damage and this can make your car look significantly older than it actually is. However, by following these few easy and straightforward steps you will have a brand-new looking car on your hands and experience maximum pleasure while driving it.

A beginner’s guide to Formula One

By
SM
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Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

Formula 1 for beginners

“Formula 1” is the annual world championship of circuit racing, which is held according to the rules of the International Motorsport Federation on cars with “open wheels.” But it is not enough to “open” your car’s wheels to participate in this type of racing; the word “formula” itself is used here because of a particular set of rules and regulations which all participants follow in the series. Bodies are built by each team independently, from other manufacturers are allowed to buy only a limited number of parts. 

World Championship is held each year from March to November to December, with a short summer break in August. At the end of the season, results are summed up, and the drivers’ title (individual) and the Constructors’ Cup (team classification) are awarded. Even Indian casino online has a game-themed Formula One – is it not popular?

Formula One teams

Because of the money involved and the high profile of both the team brands as well as the drivers, F1 is a playground for the rich and famous, celebrities of all kinds are regularly seen at the track during each race event. The exposure of Formula One due to TV coverage also means that being associated with the event through a Formula 1 Sponsorship can be monumental in marketing a business. Being linked to a Formula One event not only means a brand is seen by millions of people, but it will have the connotation of being a trustworthy and high quality brand due to being linked to such a prestigious event.

How did Formula 1 begin?

The first World Championship for drivers was held in 1950 and is still going to this day. The races have definitely developed over the years, with some of the most glamourous Formula One races taking place in countries all over the world! Due to this, fans have been given the opportunity to see the action in their home towns and cities by buying tickets and packages, instead of having to travel far! The progenitor of the “F1” can be called the European Championship of Grand Prix auto racing, which has been held since the 20s of the last century.

The first world champion in history was Italian Giuseppe Farina on Alfa Romeo. In the next seven years, five times the champion will be the Argentine Juan-Manuel Fangio, one of the most significant drivers in history. Now the German Michael Schumacher and Britain’s Lewis Hamilton have the most world titles with seven each, and the second still performs and has a chance to become the most titled Formula 1 racer alone.

The Constructors Cup did not start until 1958, and the British Vanwall team won it with pilots Stirling Moss and Tony Brooks. The most titled team in the history of Formula One is Ferrari, and they have 16 championship titles. British Williams and McLaren have 9 and 8 tags, respectively. Also, Mercedes has eight titles – they won in a row from 2014 to 2021.

Formula One technical regulations

The current technical regulations were to begin before the start of the season in 2021, but the pandemic Covid-19 made adjustments, and the introduction of the new rules was postponed for a year later.

The main reasons for changes: the fight against “dirty air” (what is “slipstream” and “dirty air”), increasing safety, and reducing the price of building a car, which becomes even more critical with the new rule of budget restrictions, which are introduced from the beginning of 2021. In the first season of the law, teams were not allowed to spend more than $145 million (by comparison, Mercedes, Ferrari, or Red Bull spent $400 million per season), which will decrease over time. The budget limit for the 2022 season is $140 million.

Formula One teams.

There are now ten teams in the Formula One peloton. Under the current rules, 26 vehicles can compete in Formula One, limiting the possible number of teams to 13, but not even that many. One problem is the membership fee introduced in 2020. To enter the list of participating teams, the owners of the new unit will have to pay 200 million dollars, divided between the first ten teams.

Let’s familiarize ourselves with the teams:

  • “Haas;
  • “Alfa Romeo;
  • “Williams;
  • “Aston Martin;
  • “Alfa Tauri;
  • “Alpin”;
  • “McLaren”;
  • “Ferrari”;
  • “Red Bull”;
  • “Mercedes.

To get a contract in “Formula-1,” you need to get a super license, which the International Automobile Federation gives out for performance in the youth championships.

In general, being an F1 pilot is physically demanding. As a result, racers lose several kilos by the end of a grand Prix and experience severe overload, measured in G-force. For example, World-2021 champion Max Verstappen experienced a 51G overload during this crash. It means the Dutch driver experienced 51 times his weight at one point.

Engines in Formula One

Since 2014, Formula One has switched to V6 1.6-liter turbo engines, and a stretch now called the “turbo-era.” “Turboera” doesn’t appeal to old-school fans who only want to hear the engine roar, but you can’t bring back the past. The Formula One car’s engine is limited to 15,000 rpm. The speed record belongs to Juan Pablo Montoya, who accelerated his Mercedes-powered McLaren to 372 kilometers per hour at the Italian Grand Prix in 2005.

There are four engine manufacturers in Formula One: “Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault, and Red Bull. “Honda” left the championship after 2021, and the new motor manufacturer is “Red Bull,” which bought the products from the Japanese company.

Since 2022, motors “froze” in development until the new motor regulations, which will be introduced in 2026.

One of the favorite entertainments in Formula 1 is to read rumors about how someone from VAG (Porsche, Audi, Lamborghini, Volkswagen, and others) will surely come with new regulations. So now we wait for the 26th year and see if it works this time.

Tires in Formula 1

Tires play a massive role in F1 racing. Now the official supplier of rubber is the Italians from Pirelli. There used to be tire battles in Formula One, and meaning teams could choose their rubber suppliers. Still, after the 2005 U.S. Grand Prix, when only six cars went to the start due to problems with Michlein tires, the championship leaders decided to trust the supply of tires to the only manufacturer that would win the tender. As a result, Pirelli has been a supplier since 2010.

The tires are divided into dry and rain. Dry tires come in five varieties: from the C1, the most rigid rubber, which takes a very long time to wash but takes a long time to warm up, to the C5, the softest rubber. Pirelli chooses three types from these five to bring to the race and marks them as follows: the most delicate – “soft,” red; medium – “medium,” yellow; the hardest – “hard,” white.

Rain tires are divided into rain tires for the wet track and intermediate tires for drying but still damp asphalt.

In 2022, with the new technical regulations, Formula 1 switched to 18-inch tires; before that, 13-inch tires were used for several decades.

Formula One tracks

A Formula One track is a ring with a special license from the International Automobile Federation. According to the rules, each race has as many laps as necessary to reach 305 kilometers and takes about 1.5-2 hours. The only exception is Monaco, where you have to go 260 kilometers to finish because of the slow track. The track in Monte Carlo also has the most petite circle length of 3337 meters.

Pit stops in Formula 1

Pit stops are essential for drivers to change tires and for repairs, mechanical adjustments, or penalties. Refueling has been banned in Formula 1 since 2010. If the race is dry, drivers must make at least one pit stop to change tires. In each race, each driver must use at least two sets of rubber. In rain races, this rule does not apply due to safety concerns.

Pits are located on the side of the finish line and are allocated in order of team strength last season. In 2022, the right to choose the place “boxes” will have “Mercedes.”

All motorsport forms use flags or signal lights to inform drivers of dangers during the session. Although technological advances have led to many flags being replaced by signal lights in Formula One, the system of flags has remained unchanged since the early years of racing.

Most of the time, qualifying is held on Saturdays, the day before the race, but on three stages this year, qualifying will be held on Friday because of the sprint race on Saturday.

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