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Buying Your First Race Car: A Beginner’s Guide

By
SM
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Photo by Wes Tindel on Unsplash

Car racing is a big deal for millions of Americans. In 2025, for example, more than 7 million people watched the Indianapolis 500 on Fox. While not SuperBowl numbers at 127 million, it shows the sport still captivates a huge crowd.

It’s therefore not surprising that many people are not just content watching from the couch. They want to feel the helmet on, hands on the wheel, chasing apexes on asphalt. And that first step toward that dream looks simple enough: buying a first racing car.

But here is the catch. If you jump in without knowing what you’re doing, that dream can flip into a very expensive headache. Plenty of beginners have bought dedicated race cars only to end up selling them off the very next year. Why? They got overwhelmed by cost and frustration.

How do you avoid being in that group? Read on.

Don’t Make a Race Car Your First Car

Let me be just blunt. Buying a dedicated race car as your very first vehicle is a terrible idea.

The problems are just too many. First, you’re looking at a massive upfront cost. A typical race car will cost you between $12 to $15 million, according to estimates cited by USA Today. Of course, an older or used race car will cost much less, but you get the picture.

Second, these machines offer zero comfort. There’s no power steering to help you wrestle through corners. There’s no ABS to save you from locking up the brakes. There’s definitely no air conditioning.

Instead, start with something lower-powered but reliable. The idea is simple: learn to be fast in a slow car first.

Maintenance Costs Will Shock You

Here’s the truth not many people will tell you: racing is expensive. You may luck out and buy a race car cheaply, but the expenses pile up fast. Tires, brake pads, fluids, engines — everything gets worn way quicker on track than on the road. 

But no matter how expensive, you cannot shirk or skimp on maintenance. According to the team at Bergman’s Auto, keeping your car, whether it’s a daily driver, off-road rig, or race car, in top-notch condition will ensure its longevity and save you from surprise repair costs. 

What’s more? Should you ever decide to sell, a well-maintained car is far more likely to hold its value.

Safety Comes Before Speed

Next, understand that safety isn’t an upgrade. It’s the foundation. The message? Never, ever compromise here. 

Here’s the thing: a racing car is essentially a cage with an engine. The safety gear is what keeps you alive when things go wrong. It’s so important that the FIA recently updated several safety standards for competition cars, including stronger side impact protection. Many national and club racing bodies are expected to adopt their own technical rules.

Key safety equipment includes:

  • A professionally built roll cage.
  • An FIA-approved racing harness (watch those expiration dates).
  • A proper racing seat that fits your body.
  • Fire safety systems and a quality helmet.

Of course, all this stuff will all be expensive, but it’s the only part of the car that you’re literally betting your life on.

This is the big one, and a cause of problems for many people. Beginners often think they can drive their track car to the grocery store, for school runs, or even to the circuit. You can’t. 

Race cars aren’t meant to be driven on streets and regular highways. In fact, it’s illegal in many places. Why? Because they typically don’t have license plates, emissions compliance, turn signals, and so on.

If you buy a track race car, be prepared to also buy a trailer and a tow vehicle. 

If you cannot afford these extras or don’t have a place to keep a trailer, you might want to stick to a track-ready car that’s also legal for street use.

Buy, Don’t Build

You might think you’ll save money by building your own car. Well, that’s not exactly true. Building a car from scratch is a trap that leads to “project creep.” You will spend more on parts and tools than you would on a car that is already finished.

Of course, you can do it for your second or third car. Definitely not for a first.

Buy a ready-made race car, and you get a vehicle that is already compliant with the rules. If it’s used, it usually comes with a racing logbook, which is a history of its tech inspections. This can give you a massive head start.

Inspect It From Top to Bottom

Race cars are abused. Yes, they’re designed for it, but metal fatigues. So, when you go to look at one, be ruthless. Inspect the car from top to bottom.

  • Look for chassis cracks.
  • Check for leaks everywhere.
  • Ask for compression test results for the engine.
  • Check to see if the gearbox shifts smoothly under load.

If you’re not mechanically savvy, paying a trusted shop for a pre-purchase inspection is the best money you’ll ever spend. A red flag? A seller who gets defensive about an inspection. Walk away. 

The idea is to treat this process like you’re buying a used tool that must last. There’s no room for surprises.

The Finish Line

The world of motorsport is one of the most thrilling. The smell of race fuel, the camaraderie, the personal challenge, it’s unreal. 

But you don’t just enter into it like it’s just a regular hobby. You have to start things small, prioritize safety, and take time to actually learn the craft. Anything else, and you may end up making a mistake you’ll regret in one year. 

Top Reasons to Hire a Union Worker Injuries Lawyer in San Francisco, CA

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

Working on a union job in San Francisco, CA comes with its own set of protections, but accidents can still turn a normal day upside down. One slip on a construction site, a mishap with machinery, or an unexpected fall can leave you facing medical bills, lost income, and confusion about what comes next. For union workers, the rules about reporting injuries, claiming benefits, and negotiating with employers can be complicated. 

That’s why knowing when to involve a professional is essential. Legal guidance ensures your rights are protected, and the benefits you deserve are within reach.

This guide outlines the main reasons union workers in the city seek legal counsel after an injury.

Understanding Your Rights as a Union Worker

Union workers enjoy protections not always available to non-union employees. Collective bargaining agreements, local labor laws, and union regulations all play a role in determining your benefits after an accident. However, these rules can be complex and are often specific to each union and employer.

Union worker injuries lawyer San Francisco, CA, can clarify your rights under these agreements. They explain what medical coverage, wage replacement, and rehabilitation benefits you are entitled to. They also help ensure you follow the proper procedures for filing claims and reporting injuries to your employer. Without this guidance, mistakes can easily reduce or delay the compensation you are owed.

Handling Insurance and Employer Challenges

Even with union protections, disputes can arise. Insurance companies may challenge the legitimacy of an injury, delay payments, or claim the accident was your fault. Employers might question the severity of the injury or refuse certain benefits.

A lawyer knows how to handle these challenges professionally. They communicate directly with insurers and employers, provide necessary documentation, and advocate for your case. Legal representation ensures that your claim is taken seriously and that your rights are defended every step of the way. Negotiating through these obstacles alone can be overwhelming and may reduce the compensation you ultimately receive.

Proper Documentation and the Evidence

Accidents need to be documented accurately for claims to succeed. Medical records, accident reports, and statements from coworkers or witnesses are all critical. Incomplete or missing evidence can lead to delays or denials.

An experienced union worker injury lawyer helps collect and organize this information. They know which details carry weight in negotiations or hearings and make sure nothing is overlooked. This preparation strengthens your claim and reduces the chances of unnecessary disputes or complications.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Recovering from a workplace injury often involves more than just covering immediate medical bills. Lost wages, ongoing treatment costs, and other financial impacts can quickly pile up. A lawyer ensures that all forms of compensation are considered and pursued.

They calculate the full extent of lost wages, including overtime and benefits, and help secure funds for medical care, rehabilitation, and other related expenses. Legal representation increases the likelihood that you receive the full compensation you deserve, rather than settling for less than what your injury truly costs.

Even with union protections, claims involve strict timelines and legal procedures. Filing deadlines, union-specific processes, and state or federal requirements must all be met. Missing a step can delay your benefits or even jeopardize your claim.

A lawyer guides you through each stage, ensuring that paperwork is completed correctly and deadlines are met. They act as a buffer between you and the bureaucracy of employers, unions, and insurers, reducing stress while keeping the claim on track.

Situations Where a Lawyer Will Become Essential

Certain situations make legal guidance particularly important:

  • Serious injuries that require long-term care
  • Disputed or any denied claims
  • Complex union rules or multiple parties involved
  • Delays in receiving your benefits
  • Questions about calculating wages, overtime, or benefits

Acting early in these cases increases the likelihood of a positive outcome and prevents mistakes that could affect your compensation. It’s recommended to reach out to professionals early. Many union workers in San Francisco, CA, seek legal advice and get legal help from Aghnami Law Group to make sure their rights are fully protected and the claims process goes smoothly.

Choosing the Right Union Worker Injuries Lawyer 

Not every lawyer handles union worker injuries with the same expertise. Look for someone experienced with local unions, familiar with San Francisco, CA, labor laws, and able to communicate clearly about your case. During consultations, ask about their experience with similar injuries, success rates, and how they approach negotiations with employers and insurers.

The right lawyer acts as an advocate, ensuring that your voice is heard and that your claim is treated fairly. They handle the technical aspects so you can focus on recovery, giving you confidence that your financial and legal interests are in capable hands.

Conclusion

Union worker injuries in San Francisco, CA, can bring unexpected challenges, from complex agreements to disputed claims and strict deadlines. Legal guidance provides clarity, protects your rights, and ensures that compensation covers all aspects of your injury. Seeking advice early is often the best step to avoid complications and reduce stress. 

Many workers in similar situations turn to a union worker injuries lawyer in San Francisco, CA, for support and guidance, ensuring their case is handled professionally and that they receive the benefits they deserve.

How to Keep Your Car Accident Claim Safe

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

Car accidents are stressful enough, but navigating the legal side afterward can feel like an entirely different challenge. Your claim’s safety depends not just on luck but on careful steps taken right from the start. Knowing how to protect your rights and your evidence can make the difference between a smooth resolution and a long, frustrating process. 

This guide walks through essential steps to keep your car accident claim secure, from organizing evidence to working effectively with your attorney, so you can focus on recovery without unnecessary setbacks.

The first step after a car accident is to reach out to an auto accident injury lawyer. Experienced attorneys understand the complexities of insurance policies, liability rules, and filing deadlines. Early guidance ensures that nothing critical is missed, including evidence collection, witness statements, and communication with insurance companies. 

Your lawyer can explain the process clearly, helping you make informed decisions without being overwhelmed. Getting professional advice early gives your claim a solid foundation and reduces the risk of mistakes that could harm your case.

Step 2 – Gather and Organize Evidence

Strong evidence is the backbone of any car accident claim. Without it, even a straightforward case can face delays or denial. Collecting and organizing your materials early can save time and strengthen your position. Important items to gather include:

  • Police reports detailing the accident.
  • Medical records and treatment notes.
  • Photographs of the accident scene and vehicle damage.
  • Repair estimates and invoices.
  • Witness statements from anyone who saw the accident.
  • Video footage from traffic cameras or nearby security cameras.

Keeping this evidence in order makes it easier for your attorney to build a clear, compelling case. Use folders or digital files to ensure nothing gets lost or overlooked.

Step 3 – Maintain Accurate Medical Records

Your injuries are a central part of your claim. Keep detailed records of all medical visits, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and any ongoing symptoms. Even small details like follow-up appointments or recommended treatments are important. Accurate records show the full impact of the accident and help justify your compensation. Consistent documentation also prevents disputes with insurance companies, which may attempt to minimize your claim.

Step 4 – Communicate Carefully with Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters often contact accident victims quickly. Be cautious in your responses. Avoid giving detailed statements about the accident until you have legal guidance. Stick to basic facts, and let your lawyer handle complex questions or requests for signed documents. Thoughtful communication prevents misunderstandings and protects your claim from being unintentionally weakened.

Step 5 – Track Expenses

Accidents can create unexpected costs beyond vehicle repair and medical bills. Keep a record of all related expenses, including transportation for medical visits, childcare during recovery, and temporary vehicle rentals. A complete record demonstrates the financial impact of the accident and supports your compensation claim.

Step 6 – Avoid Social Media Pitfalls

Insurance companies sometimes monitor social media activity to find reasons to reduce claims. Avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or recovery online. Even casual remarks or photos can be misinterpreted. Keeping a low profile helps prevent disputes over the severity of your injuries or the impact on your daily life.

Step 7 – Stay Organized Throughout the Process

Organization is critical for managing your claim efficiently. Keep all documents and communications accessible and in order. Key items to track include:

  • Medical bills and treatment records.
  • Repair invoices and vehicle assessment reports.
  • Legal correspondence with your lawyer.
  • Insurance communication, including emails, letters, and notes from calls.
  • Accident-related receipts or expenses.
  • Any additional documentation supporting your claim.

Using folders or digital tools alongside physical binders ensures nothing gets misplaced and allows your attorney to access information quickly. Staying organized reduces stress and keeps the process moving smoothly.

Step 8 – Follow Your Attorney’s Advice

Your lawyer’s guidance is essential. Follow instructions regarding evidence, medical treatment, and communications. Attorneys know how insurance companies operate and which steps have the greatest impact on the success of your claim. Regular updates with your lawyer help you stay informed and avoid unnecessary mistakes that could compromise your case.

Step 9 – Monitor Deadlines

Filing deadlines are strict in car accident claims. Missing a critical deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. Keep track of timelines for reporting the accident, submitting documentation, and responding to insurance inquiries. Your lawyer will help ensure that everything is submitted on time and in the correct format.

Step 10 – Be Patient and Persistent

Claims often take time to resolve. Patience and persistence are essential while navigating the process. Avoid rushing decisions or accepting quick settlements without understanding their implications. With careful preparation, organized evidence, and professional guidance from an auto accident injury lawyer, your claim is far more likely to reach a fair and just resolution.

Remember, Protecting Your Claim Is About Consistency

A car accident claim isn’t only about what happened in the crash. Every detail afterward matters. Keeping clear records, communicating carefully, and following your attorney’s guidance are all part of protecting your rights. These steps ensure your claim remains strong from start to finish. 

A thoughtful, organized approach increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome, letting you focus on recovery while your case progresses confidently and securely.

Forza Horizon 6 Progression, Career Tips, Credits, Economy, Driving & Tuning

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

Forza Horizon 6, set to release on May 19, 2026, takes the festival to Japan with a strong focus on real-world car culture, dense cities, and technical mountain roads. The map combines large urban highways inspired by Tokyo’s C1 Loop, narrow neighborhood streets, rural highways, and classic touge mountain passes like Mount Haruna. Based on the latest developer details and how Horizon systems usually work in practice, here are clear, useful tips to help you progress faster and drive better from day one.

Progression & Career Tips

1. Climb the Wristband Ranks the Smart Way

Progression in Forza Horizon 6 is more structured than in previous games. You start as a “tourist” and must earn access to the main festival by winning Horizon Qualifiers. These lead to a wristband system, similar in spirit to Horizon 1 but expanded with modern open-world freedom.

Each wristband color unlocks new event types, higher-class races, and new regions of the map. The early ranks are designed around slower cars and simpler tracks. Do not rush through them with overpowered tunes or difficulty spikes. Use this stage to:

  • Learn how traffic behaves in dense city areas
  • Get used to narrow lanes and complex junctions
  • Practice braking points on downhill touge sections

When you finally reach the Golden Wristband, you unlock high-end championships and Legend Island, where S1 and S2 class cars dominate. The driving style required there is very different from early-game racing, so building solid fundamentals early pays off.

2. Focus on Car Classes, Not Just Power

Early progression is built around D and C class events. Many players make the mistake of upgrading a starter car too quickly into B or A class. This often causes:

  • Wheelspin on narrow roads
  • Poor braking control
  • Difficulty learning proper racing lines

Instead, keep one or two well-tuned cars per class. A balanced C-class hot hatch or lightweight sports coupe teaches throttle control and corner entry far better than a high-horsepower monster you cannot fully control yet.

3. Build and Use Your Estate

The new Estate system lets you create custom locations in the open world. These work as social hubs, tuning garages, and car display spaces. In practice, Estates are useful for:

  • Quickly swapping cars between different disciplines
  • Saving multiple tuning setups
  • Inviting friends to test cars on nearby roads

Place at least one Estate near a mountain area and one near the city loop. This saves fast travel time and lets you test handling in the environments that matter most.

Driving & Tuning for Japan

1. Learn the Rhythm of Touge Roads

Japanese mountain roads are narrow, uneven, and full of blind corners. Speed alone does not win here. What matters most is stability and predictable handling.

For touge-focused tunes:

  • Slightly soften suspension to absorb bumps
  • Increase rear downforce to prevent snap oversteer
  • Use shorter gear ratios for better uphill acceleration

Brake earlier than you think you need to. Many corners tighten suddenly, and the road camber can change mid-turn. A clean exit is more important than aggressive entry.

2. City Driving: Grip Over Top Speed

The Tokyo-inspired highway loops and dense districts reward grip and braking performance. Long straights exist, but traffic, ramps, and tight exits limit how often you can use full speed.

Prioritize:

  • Strong brakes
  • Medium-to-high downforce
  • All-wheel drive for consistency in traffic

High horsepower is useful, but only if you can control it when lanes narrow or obstacles appear.

3. Aero Is Not Just for S-Class

Even in A and B class, proper aero settings improve stability in fast sweepers and downhill sections. A small increase in front downforce can prevent understeer when turning into long curves on elevated highways. Rear aero helps keep the car settled when braking from high speed into hairpins.

4. Prepare for Moving Obstacles

Horizon Rush events introduce dynamic elements like moving barriers, vehicles, and shifting roadblocks. Until you fully memorize these patterns:

  • Keep braking line enabled
  • Use moderate traction control
  • Avoid ultra-stiff race suspensions

Once you know how obstacles behave, you can start turning off assists to gain more Credits and better lap times.

Forza Horizon 6 Credits and Progression Economy

Forza Horizon 6 Credits are still the backbone of everything: cars, upgrades, houses, and tuning. Efficient Credit management makes the difference between steady progress and constant grinding.

1. Understand How CR Multipliers Work

Difficulty settings, assist toggles, and clean driving all affect your Credit payout. You do not need to disable everything at once. A gradual approach works best:

  1. Start with full assists while learning new cars.
  2. Turn off stability control first.
  3. Reduce braking line usage once you memorize tracks.
  4. Increase Drivatar difficulty when you consistently place top three.

Each step boosts your Credit income without hurting consistency.

2. Event Lab Anywhere: Build Your Own Practice Routes

Event Lab Anywhere allows you to create and launch custom events from any point on the map. Smart players use this to:

  • Create short technical loops for handling practice
  • Design downhill touge runs for braking drills
  • Build highway sprint tests for top-speed tuning

These custom routes can also be optimized for clean, repeatable races that generate steady Forza Horizon 6 Credits without relying on exploit-style farming.

3. Strategic Car Collection Building

Do not try to own everything early. Focus on:

  • One strong C-class
  • One balanced B-class
  • One grip-focused A-class
  • One high-speed S1

This small, well-tuned garage covers most career events and keeps upgrade costs under control.

Online Play and Account Planning

As the community grows, many players will look at long-term progression and competitive setups. Whether you build everything yourself or start fresh later, understanding how systems scale is important.

Some players may also choose to start with a Modded Forza Horizon 6 Account that already includes unlocked cars and Credits, especially if they want to focus on tuning, online racing, or Event Lab creation instead of early career grinding. Platforms like U4N are commonly mentioned in the community when discussing safe marketplaces for game accounts and currencies, including Forza Horizon 6 Credits.

Regardless of your approach, learning the driving and tuning fundamentals first ensures you can actually use what you own effectively.

Economic Efficiency Tips

1. Premium Edition: Practical Value, Not Just Early Access

The Premium Edition offers:

  • 4-day early access
  • Two future expansions
  • A 30-car pass

If you know you will play long-term, this reduces overall spending and gives you earlier access to diverse car classes, which helps with tuning experiments and event variety.

2. Smart Assist Toggling for Higher Payouts

Instead of disabling everything at once, tailor assists per car:

  • Turn off traction control on AWD cars first
  • Keep ABS on for high-speed builds
  • Remove braking line only on tracks you know well

This balances safety with Credit bonuses.

3. Tune Once, Save Often

Save multiple versions of each tune:

  • Grip tune for rain and touge
  • Speed tune for highway races
  • Balanced tune for mixed events

Switching tunes is cheaper than rebuilding cars and helps you adapt to different race types without wasting Credits.

Summary

Forza Horizon 6 is built around technical driving, dense environments, and structured progression. Japan’s roads demand precision, not just speed. Focus on clean lines, stable tuning, and gradual difficulty increases. Manage your Forza Horizon 6 Credits wisely, build a small but effective garage, and use systems like Estates and Event Lab Anywhere to practice where it matters most.

Whether you start from scratch or later explore options related to your Forza Horizon 6 Account through services like U4N, the core skill that always matters is control. Learn the roads, respect the terrain, and let consistency—not raw horsepower—carry you through the festival.

How Local Roads and Traffic Shape Car Accident Claims in Port Richey, FL

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

Car accidents don’t happen in isolation. They are shaped by the roads we drive, the traffic we sit in, and the way a community moves day to day. In a city like Port Richey, local traffic patterns, road design, and seasonal population changes all play a role in how car accident claims unfold.

For injured drivers, understanding this local context matters. It influences how fault is evaluated, what evidence is available, and how insurance companies respond. This is why many people turn to car accident lawyers in Port Richey when navigating claims tied closely to local driving conditions rather than generic accident scenarios.

Port Richey’s Unique Driving Environment

Port Richey is not a dense urban center, but it is far from quiet. The city blends residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and connecting routes used by daily commuters. Local drivers share the roads with delivery vehicles, service trucks, and drivers passing through surrounding areas.

This mix creates traffic patterns that change throughout the day. Morning and evening congestion, school traffic, and weekend activity all affect how accidents happen and how they are investigated. Claims tied to these conditions often require a closer look at timing, location, and traffic flow.

High-Traffic Areas and Common Accident Types

Certain road types in Port Richey see more frequent collisions than others. Multi-lane roads and busy intersections are common sites for crashes, particularly rear-end and side-impact accidents. These collisions often occur during periods of congestion when drivers are distracted, impatient, or unfamiliar with local traffic signals.

Because these areas see frequent use, insurers may already have data on prior accidents or traffic patterns. While this information can be helpful, it can also be used to downplay individual claims by treating them as routine. Understanding the specifics of the crash location becomes essential to avoid oversimplified conclusions.

The Impact of Commuting and Peak Traffic Hours

Daily commuting plays a significant role in accident claims. Morning and evening rush hours often involve heavier traffic, reduced reaction time, and limited visibility. Accidents during these periods may involve multiple vehicles, making fault determination more complex.

Peak traffic hours can also affect evidence. Witnesses may leave the scene quickly to get to work, and traffic cameras may capture only partial footage. These factors can complicate claims and increase disputes over how the accident occurred.

Seasonal Traffic and Out-of-Town Drivers

Like much of Florida, Port Richey experiences seasonal changes in traffic volume. Visitors unfamiliar with local roads, rental vehicles, and varying insurance policies can all complicate accident claims.

When out-of-town drivers are involved, delays are more common. Insurance companies may operate out of state, and communication can slow the process. Determining fault may also be more difficult when one party is unfamiliar with local driving conditions or traffic expectations.

How Road Design Influences Liability

Road design plays a quiet but important role in car accident claims. Lane markings, signage, lighting, and visibility all affect how an accident is evaluated. Poor visibility at intersections, unclear lane shifts, or limited shoulder space can contribute to collisions.

In some cases, road conditions may shift how liability is assessed. While driver behavior is always central, insurers and investigators often consider whether road layout or traffic control devices contributed to the crash. This makes documenting the accident scene particularly important.

Insurance Companies and Location-Based Disputes

Insurance companies analyze car accident claims closely, and location is a major factor. They review traffic patterns, prior accident history in the area, and local driving conditions to assess risk and liability.

Initial settlement offers may not fully account for how local conditions influenced the crash. Disputes often arise when insurers rely on generalized assumptions rather than the specific circumstances of the accident. This is where working with car accident lawyers in Port Richey can help ensure that local factors are properly considered and not overlooked.

Why Evidence and Timing Matter Locally

In busy traffic areas, evidence can disappear quickly. Vehicles are moved, road conditions change, and surveillance footage may be overwritten. Acting promptly after an accident helps preserve critical details tied to the crash location.

Medical documentation also matters. Linking injuries clearly to the accident and its location strengthens a claim, especially when insurers question severity or causation. Timing often makes the difference between a smooth claim and a prolonged dispute.

Conclusion: Looking Beyond the Crash

Car accident claims in Port Richey are shaped by more than just the moment of impact. Local roads, traffic flow, commuting habits, and seasonal changes all influence how accidents happen and how claims are evaluated.

By understanding the role these factors play, injured drivers are better equipped to navigate the claims process and protect their interests. Looking beyond the crash itself to the broader local context brings clarity to what can otherwise feel like a confusing and frustrating experience.

TEAM CHEVY NASCAR RACE ADVANCE: Bowman Gray Stadium

By
Official Release
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TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE
Bowman Gray Stadium
Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium
February 1, 2026

The NASCAR Cup Series will hit the track for the first time in 2026 this weekend as the sport’s top division makes its return to the Winston-Salem, North Carolina, short-track famously known as “The Madhouse” for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

The 48th rendition of the series’ annual preseason exhibition race marks the beginning of a 38-race schedule for the division that leads to the title-deciding race at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November.

With roots that run deep in NASCAR history, Bowman Gray Stadium became just the fourth different venue to host the exhibition-style race last season. The event saw near domination by Team Chevy’s Chase Elliott to lead the Bowtie brand to its series-leading 23rd Clash victory – a record that more than doubles the next leading manufacturer, Ford, with 10 wins. The win – Elliott’s first in the event – delivered Hendrick Motorsports its eighth Clash win to tie fellow Chevrolet organization, Richard Childress Racing, for second on the event’s all-time wins list. The 2020 champion joined an elite list of active past Clash winners, which also includes series veteran and Team Chevy teammate, Kyle Busch, who is a two-time winner in the event.

TEAM CHEVY SET FOR TITLE-DEFENDING SEASON

Debuting an updated design of its Camaro ZL1 racecar in 2026, Chevrolet has its sights set on yet another championship title sweep in NASCAR’s premier series this season. The NASCAR Cup Series winningest manufacturer is coming off its 29th sweep of the series’ driver and manufacturer championship titles.

Already boasting a series-leading 15-race win season, Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson put a bow on Chevrolet’s strong 2025 campaign by earning the manufacturer its 34th driver championship in NASCAR’s premier series. With two NASCAR Cup Series titles under his belt, the 33-year-old Elk Grove, California, native will enter his 12th full-time season as just the third active multi-time champion in NASCAR’s highest ranks. Alongside Larson’s title also came Chevrolet’s 44th manufacturer championship in the division, which includes a streak of now five-straight title-earning seasons to keep the Bowtie brand undefeated in the Next Gen era.

ELLIOTT’S MASTERY AT “THE MADHOUSE”

Entering a weekend filled with unknowns, NASCAR’s return to Bowman Gray Stadium proved to be no challenge for Chase Elliott and the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet team. Topping the leaderboard in both qualifying and his respective heat race, the 30-year-old Dawsonville, Georgia, native cruised his Chevrolet-powered machine to 171 laps led in the 200-lap main event en route to his first career Clash victory. The triumph – Chevrolet’s 23rd in the event’s history – made the former champion the 26th driver to win in the series’ annual exhibition race. A repeat performance in this weekend’s event would make Elliott just the eighth driver to become a two-time Clash winner – joining the likes of career Chevrolet driver and NASCAR Hall of Famer, Jeff Gordon (1994, 1997), and fellow Team Chevy driver, Kyle Busch (2012, 2021).

 
2026 TEAM CHEVY LINEUP

Team Chevy’s already robust team and driver lineup got a little bigger this season with the addition of two notable organizations: Haas Factory Team and Rick Ware Racing.

Previously campaigning under the Chevrolet banner through the 2016 season, it’s a homecoming for Haas Factory Team as the organization’s NASCAR Cup Series program and two full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series entries will compete with Chevrolet-powered machines this season. With a technical alliance alongside Hendrick Motorsports, the organization’s No. 41 Chevrolet will see Cole Custer back behind the reigns, with the 28-year-old Ladera Ranch, California, native set to embark on his fifth full-time season in NASCAR’s top division. Custer’s rookie season in the Cup Series came in 2020, which saw the driver earn his first career victory in the division at Kentucky Speedway. Arguably his most notable season in the NASCAR national ranks came in 2023 when he returned to the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series full-time – ultimately ending the run with the championship title.

Also joining the Chevrolet camp is Rick Ware Racing, who will be fielding one full-time entry – the No. 51 Chevrolet with driver Cody Ware – in the NASCAR Cup Series. The organization joins the Bowtie brigade with a technical alliance through Richard Childress Racing. While their tenure in the division dates back to 2012, Rick Ware Racing has also seen success across a variety of racing disciplines with wins in NHRA, American Flat Track, World Supercross and the CARS Tour.

ZILISCH READY FOR ROOKIE CAMPGAIN

At just 19 years old, Connor Zilisch has already established an impressive racing resume that includes LMP2 class wins at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 12 hours of Sebring, which was followed by a win in his first-ever NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at Watkins Glen International. In 2025, the Mooresville, North Carolina, native signed his first full-season contract in the NASCAR national ranks to pilot the No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series – ultimately leading Team Chevy’s rising star to a record-setting rookie campaign that was highlighted by 10 wins and a streak of 18 consecutive top-five finishes.

Fresh off yet another podium finish in the Rolex 24, Zilisch’s rapid rise up the ranks continues as he gears up for his rookie season on NASCAR’s biggest stage – driving the No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet for the 2026 Cup Series season. Paired with veteran crew chief, Randall Burnett, Zilisch will be a part of a stout three-car stable for the Chevrolet organization, alongside teammates Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. Zilisch has just three starts in NASCAR’s top division, with his most recent at Atlanta Motor Speedway (June 2025) ending with a career-best finish of 11th.

 
BOWTIE BULLETS:

  • The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium race weekend.
  • Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Clash Win:

Kyle Busch – two wins (2021, 2012)
Chase Elliott – one win (2025)

  • In 47 NASCAR Cup Series Clash races, Chevrolet has earned a series-leading 23 victories – a record more than double the next leading manufacturer, Ford, with 10 wins.
  • Chevrolet holds the series’ record for the most consecutive Clash wins by a single manufacturer with six straight – recorded from 2005-2010.
  • In 144 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 67 victories – a winning percentage of 46.5%.
  • Chevrolet is coming off its 29th all-time sweep of the NASCAR Cup Series championship titles – capturing its 34th driver championship and 44th, and fifth consecutive, manufacturer championship in 2025.
  • With its 44 NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer championships, 34 NASCAR Cup Series driver championships, and 881 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

 
TUNE-IN:

Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium

Saturday, January 31

Practice and Qualifying at 6:10 p.m. ET
(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

Heat Races at 8:30 p.m. ET
(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)


Sunday, February 1

Last Chance Race at 6 p.m. ET
(FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

Cook Out Clash Main Event at 8 p.m. ET
(FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

 
QUOTABLE QUOTES:

Daniel Suarez, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

A special partnership returns to the No. 7 Chevrolet for the Clash. What does it mean to you to represent the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and its mission?

“Cal Ripken, Sr. had an amazing career and the legacy he left behind, especially the work the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, is doing to support younger generations through their STEM programs and education, is truly remarkable. I am personally a very big believer in the younger generation and to see how they impact the youth is unbelievable. I’m thrilled to be a part of this partnership.”

What makes the Clash such a valuable race for you as you begin the season with your team?

“I’m really eager to get started this year. The first Clash is especially important because it’s our first race to focus on communication and how we talk through the car and whether it’s handling tight or loose. I’m looking forward to seeing where we stack up, how we can make progress throughout the weekend, and how this will set the tone for the 2026 season.”

Kyle Busch, No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet

What has the offseason been like getting to know your new Crew Chief Jim Pohlman? How has your relationship been developing over the last few months?

“The offseason has been good getting to know Jim, our new Crew Chief coming on board for this year. It’s not something I’m not accustomed to. I’ve had a few Crew Chiefs over the years. Fortunately for me, I have won with every single one of them, so I am looking forward to a new opportunity of working with another crew chief and having the opportunity to go out there and get some race wins; get ourselves up there in the points and contend for a championship.”

The relationship has been good. We’ve had some communication; we’ve had some sim sessions. Thankfully we actually had a really good opportunity to test in North Wilkesboro, so we were there getting some on track time and had a day to spend together at the racetrack kind of going through our dialogue, going through some changes and understanding what I would say and what the data would say, coming up with some good answers to make our racecar go faster. Jim’s been a very strong proponent of making sure we’ve got some good stuff this year.”

Where do you think that Jim Pohlman can help you now that you’ve spent a little bit of time with him?

“I think Jim’s biggest thing is keeping everyone accountable. Getting everyone in the race shop pulling the rope in the same direction. Pushing them in order to dig deeper and work harder. It’s not always just a 9-5 job. Racing in this business, especially at this level, you can be there 24 hours and still feel like you’re behind. It’s just the nature of what it’s all like and trying to get the most out of everybody.”

What are your thoughts going into Bowman Gray?

“Bowman Gray was really great last year. I feel like the fans really supported that race. NASCAR’s most popular driver won the race, so that was good for everyone, too. But we want to be a little bit more out front and be battling for the win. So hopefully we can be a force to be reckoned with and put our name in the hat to win this year.”

What does it mean to start the year with Bowman Gray?

“Bowman Gray is cool because it’s so short. It’s so small and the fans are right there on top of everything. It reminds me a little bit of the Summer Shoot Out and racing the legends cars. It’s a really tight bull ring and hard to get around there, hard to pass with these big heavy stock cars. But we made the most of it last year and I felt like the fans came out and supported it very, very well, so I hope they do so again this year.”

Do you think after having a year of racing at this track, we’ll see some of that beating-and-banging Bowman Gray style this year?

“Yeah, I think we saw plenty of it last year. The heat races, the last chance qualifier race. There was guys crawling over guys and spinning each other out and all that stuff, so it got pretty hectic and chaotic, and even in the feature race there was some of that going on towards the back of the field. So hopefully we’re far enough up front where we don’t have to deal with much of that and we can have a nice smooth race.”

Do you expect more chaos at The Clash this season?

“I felt like last year’s Clash was a little chaotic. There were definitely some moments there where some guys were running over each other, and guys got mad at each other for no reason. You are going to hit each other. It’s inevitable, it’s going to happen. But the nature of just getting a little bump-bump and then getting mad about it and trying to retaliate, that’s just the nature of the sport I guess we are in today. Hopefully the drivers have grown up over the off season… I doubt it, but we will see what happens.”

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet

“The Clash at Bowman Gray is just a cool event, and I had never been there in my life until last year. What they say is true—the Bowman Gray crowd is unique and very passionate, and it was fun to be able to see what it was all about. The energy was high, and you couple that with crazy racing, meaning you’re just going to beat and gouge on each other around that place. It’s full contact, so you just have to be mentally prepared for that going into it. I think it’s a fun kickoff event. Obviously, it’s not for points, but it is going out there for prestige. You try to win it and do the best that you can. It’s a great way to get back to racing, and it’s not far from home, which is a bonus.

The team has been working hard during the off-season. We had a good test at North Wilkesboro, and even though we unloaded and were second quick on the first run, the season is all about figuring out expectations. For me, it’s about getting in the right mindset. I put a lot of pressure on myself about how I perform because I don’t want to let people down. I’ve got to enjoy the process. The team has never put pressure on me, so I just need to focus and have fun. I’m fortunate to still be part of all this and want to have a good year for the team and our partners. We’ll go and have some fun at Bowman Gray before the regular season starts at Daytona.”

Cole Custer, No. 41 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet

“For us, Bowman Gray is definitely an exciting race and crucial for our team with how much work has gone in over the offseason, with switching to Chevrolet and having a new alliance with HMS. So this race will be huge; evaluating where we are at, seeing what we can fix from there and try and make ourselves better for the remainder of the season. This race really sets the tone for the whole year.”

Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet

“Bowman Gray is pure grassroots racing, and that’s what makes it so cool. It’s physical, it’s intense, and the fans are right on top of you. We’ve had a really productive offseason, and having Chef Boyardee on the car is a great way to kick things off.”

Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

“I’m curious to see what’s going to happen this weekend. It’s definitely going to be cold; it was cold last year but not that cold. For me, it’s not that different. As a driver, we fight the heat all the time so it’s a nice change to drive when it’s cold. From the race team perspective, there are a lot of factors on the technical side that the team will have to fight with to try to keep things going through some really cold temperatures. I hope we can get it in; it’ll be interesting what shakes out, but whenever they let us back in the race car, I am excited to get going.”

Cody Ware, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Chevrolet

“Having to make the transition from Ford to Chevrolet was a big undertaking for the whole team. The integration with RCR, their engineers and, really, all of their employees, has been impressive, and the test was another good example. It gave us renewed confidence that the direction we’re heading as a race team is the right one.

Partnering with Chevrolet was the right choice. Everything from the engine package to the aerodynamics of the new body, there are just so many positives. It’s early, but we feel like it’s already paying dividends.”

Michael McDowell, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

What is your perspective heading into Bowman Gray this weekend?

“It’s nice just get out to the track; go through the process, make sure everything is functioning and working well. The heat races and last chance qualifier are pretty tricky. It was exciting, but hard to pass last year. I’m ready to get to Bowman Gray and have a shot at it. Hopefully the weather works with us.”

Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

You qualified for the first Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Can you replicate that this weekend?

“I’m excited for it. I don’t get around Martinsville very well, but for some reason, I’m not too bad at getting around Bowman Gray. We were running sixth last year before getting spun. I think we were something like the second-fastest car on lap times. I thought we realistically had a shot to run with Chase (Elliott), so hopefully we can unload with the same speed on Saturday. It’d be interesting to win my first race in a non-points race, but it would be a great way to start the new year.”

What is it like competing in the wild environment ‘The Madhouse’ promotes?

“It’s a lot of fun. The place is packed. It reminds me of going to local short tracks as a kid, but with the nice, fancy Cup cars beating and banging around that little place. It’s cool because I just ran the Gateway Dirt Nationals in St. Louis and went to the Chili Bowl in Tulsa. Bowman Gray reminds me a lot of those places; you just don’t have a roof over your head.”

Connor Zilisch, No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

“The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium going to be interesting for sure. I’ve been to races there as fan but racing a Cup car is going to be crazy for sure. I’ve had some laps in the SIM to prepare for this weekend. It’s a tough little track and certainly a challenge to get off the corners without getting too loose. Bowman Gray is like no other track that we race at all year. Racing there is going to be intense, but I think it will be fun, too.”

Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

A new and special number this season, what does the number 97 mean to you?

“It’s a number I’ve raced with all my life – I started racing with it at a young age. It’s really cool that Justin Marks and Trackhouse let me race a number that means so much to me and my family. It’s a really good change. I’m stoked to be able to carry the 97 this year!”

What is the key for you to keep improving on the ovals?

“Definitely time and to still keep an open mind, keep learning. I think I’m still making huge gains in certain areas. But certainly, keep learning something new every week, especially at the tracks I’m not strong at, keep trying to improve. I’m nowhere near my ceiling yet, I don’t think.”

 
Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics

Manufacturer Championships:

Total (1949-2024): 44

First title for Chevrolet: 1958

Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)

Most recent: 2025

Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025

Driver Championships:

Total (1949-2024): 34

First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)

Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)

Most recent: Kyle Larson (2025)

Driver and Manufacturer Championship Sweeps: 29

Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025

Event Victories:

Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)

CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:

Total Chevrolet race wins: 881 (1949 to date)

Poles won to date: 766

Laps led to date: 256,734

Top-fives to date: 4,436

Top-10s to date: 9,151

Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:

       General Motors: 1,215

       Chevrolet: 881

       Pontiac: 154

       Oldsmobile: 115

       Buick: 65



       Ford: 847                                                                               

       Ford: 747

       Mercury: 96

       Lincoln: 4



       Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467

       Dodge: 217

       Plymouth: 191

       Chrysler: 59



       Toyota: 203

About General Motors

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

Ford Racing Notes and Quotes – Josh Berry Looking Forward to 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Season

By
Official Release
-

Ford Racing Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
Ford Racing Media Availability — The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium
Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Josh Berry, driver of the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Mustang Dark Horse, will be starting his second season behind the wheel for Wood Brothers Racing when the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium kicks off the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. Berry answered questions from the media about this weekend’s scheduled event, along with his hopes for the new year.

JOSH BERRY, No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Mustang Dark Horse – HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE NEW FORMAT? “I think it will be interesting to see if things change with how people race and how they think and how it evolves throughout the season. Obviously, consistency is going to be more important, which I don’t think is necessarily a bad thing. I’m excited. I think it makes each race mean that much more and that’s what they’re trying to accomplish, so it should be fun.”

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE TRAJECTORY OF YOUR TEAM GOING INTO YEAR TWO WITH WBR? “I’m excited for it. I agree that there were a lot of positives in our performance last year. There were plenty of races where the finish didn’t indicate the type of day we had, so that’s been our focus is looking through some of that stuff and trying to figure out what we could do better and put ourselves in better positions to get the finishes we deserve. You go back to the points format, that’s gonna be more important, but, overall, I feel good. This is really the first year since I’ve been in Cup or Xfinity that I’ve really had the same group two years in a row. That made the offseason feel different since I’ve already been working with these guys and knowing them, and not establishing that communication, so I think that should be a positive as well and we’re ready to get to the Clash.”

ARE YOU COMFORTABLE WITH THE NEW DIGITAL DASH YET? “I didn’t notice too much of a change. It’s got some LED lights that could be used to shift lights if you wanted to, but, overall, I feel like it’s pretty similar. It seems like it works quicker, faster. It’s better quality, so, overall, I think it’s all good and really I haven’t experienced any issues. We ran pit road a couple times (at the NWS test) just practicing that and felt good about everything. Overall, I feel like it’s ready to go.”

SNOW IS A POTENTIAL ISSUE THIS WEEKEND. HAVE YOU HEARD ANYTHING IN REGARDS TO WHAT NASCAR IS THINKING AND IF THIS HAS TO BE RESCHEDULED TO A LATER DATE? “No, I haven’t. I think we’re all kind of in the same scenario, just waiting to see what they’re thinking going forward. I would say that’s probably a possibility in looking at the forecast. I think they’re just probably waiting for it to get a little closer and get a better idea of what the weather is looking like before they make a decision. For us, we’re planning on racing.”

HOW MUCH INTERACTION HAVE YOU HAD WITH STEVE O’DONNELL AND HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE HIS LEADERSHIP STYLE? “I haven’t honestly had a lot of dealings with him. I’ve obviously been part of some of those meetings when he’s been around, but I really don’t have an opinion one way or another, honestly.”

WHEN YOU LOOK AT LAST SEASON HOLISTICALLY, ARE THERE CERTAIN AREAS OF EXECUTION YOU FEEL YOU NEED TO WORK ON TO BE BETTER? “I think we sat down early in the offseason and kind of broke it down and looked at each race. It’s a number of things. It’s issues on pit road. There were a couple of speeding penalties over the course of the year. Obviously, that stuff you have to clean up. Issues on pit road with penalties. Mechanical problems. We had a couple of those along the way. I think the biggest thing is just looking at the decision-making towards getting to these races maybe is the biggest thing. I think you’re better off to take a top 10 than maybe put yourself in a bad spot that could result in it, but, honestly, the key to that is not something that I don’t think any of us really know. Obviously, you’ve got to go out and race hard and fight for every spot, and just kind of learning with experience and trying to make sure we get the finishes we deserve. But the biggest thing, I think, is just limiting your mistakes. Like I said, we had a handful of those over the course of the year and hopefully we can clean those up and get the finishes we should.”

IS YOUR CONFIDENCE HIGHER KNOWING THAT YOU DON’T HAVE TO REACCLIMATE YOURSELF TO A NEW TEAM OR NEW CREW MEMBERS? “Yeah, I think so. I think it helps put us in a better spot. Obviously, the last couple of years in the Cup Series have been with two different organizations, and now going back to this and having the same group, the same crew chief, the same engineers, really the same everybody, so it just kind of builds more fluidity. It doesn’t feel like you’re starting over and learning each other as much. It’s made the offseason maybe go a little bit longer, maybe a little bit more refreshing because you’re not doing as much random things that you have to check off in the offseason. I’m excited for it. I feel like me and Miles (Stanley) have had a really good relationship and now Miles is going into his second year as a crew chief as well, so I know he’s only gonna keep getting better, so I feel like we’re poised to have a really strong year.”

DO YOU THINK WITH THE NEW HORSEPOWER PACKAGE ON THE SHORT TRACKS THAT YOU HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN MORE RACES? “Yeah. Obviously, the short tracks I feel like we had good performance. That was probably our strongest last year. I think that it will be interesting to see how the horsepower package changes things, but, ultimately, yeah, we feel strong on the short tracks. We’re on board with the power change. I think it will be a good thing for racing, and I feel like we can go out and win at short tracks every time we go there.”

HOW DOES THE COMBINATION OF TEMPERATURES THIS WEEKEND AND A SHORT TRACK AFFECT YOUR PREPARATIONS? “The weather is gonna be interesting to follow, obviously, from just the schedule side of things and how much track time we get or don’t get and if that becomes a factor. I think the biggest thing is prioritizing getting heat in your tires early in runs, early in practice and obviously qualifying. That’s the biggest thing that stands out when it’s cold like this is just making more of an effort to do that, but, really, inside the car it doesn’t change too much outside of that.”

THIS WILL BE YOUR SECOND DAYTONA 500 WITH WBR. WHAT’S THE PRESSURE LIKE RACING FOR A TEAM WITH THE HISTORY THEY HAVE THERE? “Obvoiusly, they’ve had a great history there and it’s a race that we all as drivers put pressure on ourselves to go out and perform well and hopefully compete for the win. It’s the biggest race of the year and obviously being a part of the Wood Brothers and Team Penske, their cars have always been really strong at those races and being able to capitalize on that is something that’s obviously really important to us, so hopefully we can go do that and avoid all the trouble to be there at the end and give ourselves a shot at it.”

THE WIN AND IN COMPONENT IS GONE THIS YEAR. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THAT BECAUSE YOUR WIN AT VEGAS LAST YEAR WAS LIFE CHANGING? “I think that obviously it’s a different format, but first time winners and first wins in this sport have always been something that are really popular and make for great stories. There’s no reason that the playoff format changing should change the feeling that you get from when you have a first-time winner or an underdog story type of deal – kind of like we were last year. Now it doesn’t include an automatic berth into the playoffs or the Chase, but it’s still a great story. There are gonna be a lot of storylines evolve throughout the season and as that changes, relying on consistency a little bit more is probably gonna put the best guys in the Chase at the end of the year. As a team, we feel a little more pressure going into this knowing that we’ve got to execute week in and week out and, to me, that’s not a bad thing.”

WHAT IS ONE SPECIFIC WAY YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE NASCAR CONTINUE SUPPORTING GRASSROOTS TRACKS LIKE BOWMAN GRAY, AND DO YOU SEE ROOM FOR ROTATING EVENTS LIKE THE CHASE TO OTHER TRACKS LIKE NEW SMYRNA OR HICKORY OR THE NASHVILLE FAIRGROUNDS? “Yeah, definitely. I think they’re off to a great start with the investment they made into Bowman Gray and SMI with North Wilkesboro as well. That’s a great starting point, and I think there is definitely room with this exhibition Clash that we can go around to some different places like the ones you mentioned and make an investment in there and improve their facilities and bring a really big event there, so I think that’s the biggest thing to continue to do is support these tracks. I think it would be really cool to kind of see this race evolve into traveling to a few different short tracks every couple of years. That would make for some good stories.”

OUTSIDE OF LAS VEGAS, IS THERE A SPECIFIC TRACK OR WEEKEND YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2026? “Yeah, I think there are a lot of them. I think there are a lot of places where we were really strong last year. I obviously love going to Martinsville, a lot of the short tracks – Phoenix, Richmond we were really good at. It was a little bit different on a few of the intermediates. We had some really good speed at a couple of them, but missed it at a couple of them, too. I think generally that all of the short tracks are gonna be a really good opportunity for us to run really well and hopefully get a win.”

By 2026, Watching Sports Is a Daily Digital Routine

By
SM
-

Sports fandom in Asia is getting redesigned in real time. By 2026, the question isn’t “Do you follow sports online?” It’s “Which screen are you using right now, and who are you arguing with while you watch?”

For Filipino fans, this shift feels less like a new era and more like a natural upgrade: stronger streaming options, smarter apps, faster highlight distribution, and communities that turn every game into a shared event, even when everyone’s physically apart.

Streaming becomes a lifestyle service, not a broadcast

The most important transformation is simple: access. Fans expect to watch live, catch highlights fast, and follow leagues without juggling ten different logins.

Platforms built for Filipino sports audiences are leaning into that. The Pilipinas Live app description positions it as a destination for Filipino sports fans to watch live games and catch highlights, news, and exclusive videos on digital screens. When streaming behaves like a reliable daily service, fandom becomes easier – and when fandom becomes easier, it grows.

Odds-as-data: the second screen that teaches you the game

Real-time stats used to be a side dish. In 2026, they’re the meal. Fans track shot quality, possession swings, lineup changes, and momentum indicators while the game is happening, not after.

That’s why NBA betting odds increasingly function as a “readout” fans check alongside the stream. Odds are a kind of compressed information: they reflect expectation, context, and the way conditions change when a star sits or foul trouble hits. Used casually, they add fun – small predictions, friendly rivalry, a reason to watch a fourth quarter that might otherwise feel decided. Used thoughtfully, they add understanding – because you start noticing patterns and game management. And for Filipino fans who already love debating hoops, odds become another language for the same passion.

Community-first platforms make every match feel social

The next transformation is community. Sports doesn’t live only in broadcasts; it lives in chats, comment sections, clips, and watch parties.

That’s also why a betting site can feel integrated into fandom rather than separate from it. It matches the same habits: checking updates, reacting to shifts, making small calls, then talking about those calls with friends. The best version stays playful and responsible – clear limits, small stakes, no pressure – because the goal is to make the match more engaging, not more stressful. For many fans it’s also a time-filler between games, in the same way people open mobile games or scroll highlights. And since betting markets reward paying attention, they can encourage better viewing: form, matchups, pace, substitutions, late-game decisions.

Friction matters: fans stay where access is smooth

In 2026, platforms don’t win only because they have content. They win because they remove friction: easy access, clean UI, mobile-first design, and continuity across devices.

That’s where MelBet login fits into the modern routine – fans want to jump in quickly, check what they need, then get back to the match or the chat. Convenience is not a small thing anymore; it’s the difference between “I’ll do that later” and “I’ll do that now.” And when sports calendars get crowded, “now” is everything. It also supports the way fans bounce between events – basketball tonight, football tomorrow, esports on the weekend – without wanting to rebuild their setup each time. Add responsible tools and a clear experience, and the platform becomes part of the week, not a one-off.

Big 2026 events will be consumed in a new way

The biggest tournaments still matter, but how they’re consumed is changing.

The Asian Games Aichi–Nagoya 2026 run from 19 September to 4 October 2026, and they’re the perfect test for modern fandom: multiple sports, overlapping schedules, constant highlight moments. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 runs 1–21 March 2026, and it will generate its own wave of clips, debates, and narrative momentum across social platforms. The point is that fans won’t just “watch the tournament.” They’ll live inside it daily through feeds, notifications, and community reactions.

The real shift: fans become co-creators of the sports experience

By 2026, the loudest part of sports isn’t always the stadium. It’s the online crowd. Fans clip moments, remix narratives, create mini-documentaries in threads, and make athletes feel bigger because the community tells the story nonstop.

For Filipino audiences, that’s a strength: sports is already social, already conversational, already built around shared emotion. Digital platforms are simply giving that culture better tools – and 2026 is the year those tools start to feel fully mature.

Sioux Chief PowerPEX Plumbing Products to Sponsor ARCA Menards Series Pole Award in 2026 

By
Official Release
-

Temperance, Mich. (January 19, 2026) – Sioux Chief Manufacturing, one of America’s leading manufacturers of rough plumbing products, will sponsor the pole award across the ARCA Menards Series platform in 2026. Naming rights for the pole award, now known as the Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole Award, is the latest evolution of the relationship between Sioux Chief and the ARCA Menards Series that is now in its second decade. 

“We’re proud to continue our long-standing relationship with the ARCA Menards Series by sponsoring the Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole Award,” said Joe Ismert, President of Sioux Chief Manufacturing. “Performance, precision, and reliability are at the core of everything we do, and those same qualities define what it takes to earn the pole in racing. This partnership is a perfect way to celebrate excellence and American-made innovation.” 

“There are two things every driver wants to do every week, and that’s win the pole and win the race,” said ARCA president Ron Drager. “Sioux Chief has been a great partner of the ARCA Menards Series for over a decade and we’re thrilled that every pole winner in 2026 will receive the Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole Award flag throughout the season.” 

The ARCA Menards Series season lifts off with the General Tire 200 on Saturday, February 14. Practice is slated for Thursday, February 12, and the first Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole Qualifying session of the season is set for Friday, February 13. The race will be televised live on FOX starting at noon ET. It will also be broadcast on select affiliates of the MRN Radio network nationwide and on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. Live timing & scoring data from all on-track activity will be available at ARCARacing.com; follow @ARCA_Racing on X (formerly Twitter) for up-to-the-minute updates. 

About ARCA  

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

About Menards 

A family-owned and run company started in 1958, Menards is recognized as the retail home center leader of the Midwest with 236 stores in 15 states.  Menards is truly a one-stop shop for all of your home improvement needs featuring a full-service lumberyard and everything you need to plan a renovation or build a home, garage, cabin, shed, deck, fence or post frame building.  You’ll find a large selection of lumber, roofing, siding, construction blocks, trusses, doors and windows, plus cabinets, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint, plumbing supplies and more.  To complete the job, Menards has quality hand tools, power tools, fasteners, electrical tools plus storage options and supplies for everyone from the weekend warrior to the pro!  

Menards has what you need to complete your outdoor projects and keep your yard in tip-top shape including mowers, trimmers, blowers, pressure washers and more, plus a beautiful garden center stocked with plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping tools, grass seed, fertilizer options, outdoor décor and patio furniture.  Menards also has everyday essentials like health & beauty products, housewares, pet and wildlife supplies, automotive items and even groceries.  And at Christmas, an Enchanted Forest display area with impressive trees, lighting, decorations, ornaments, inflatables and more.  

Menards is known for friendly Customer Service and as the place to “Save Big Money” with low prices every day, and sales too!  For more information, please visit Menards.com to learn about our store locations, offerings and services.  

RFK Racing Advance | Clash at Bowman Gray

By
Official Release
-

Clash Event Info:
Date: Sunday, February 1
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Format: 200 laps
TV: FOX
Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

RFK Historically in the Clash
Cup Wins: 1 (Mark Martin, 1999)

  • NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin has Jack Roush’s lone win in the Clash event, winning back in 1999. He started from the 13th position and went on to lead the final 16 laps, topping Ken Schrader and Bobby Labonte on the podium for the victory.
  • In addition, RFK co-owner Brad Keselowski led 43 laps and won the event from the 17th position in 2018 while driving for Penske.

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 6:10 p.m. ET, Practice (FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 8:30 p.m. ET, Heat Races Begin (FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 6 p.m. ET, Last Chance Qualifying Race (FOX, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 8 p.m. ET, Clash (FOX, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • The 2026 season unofficially begins this weekend as the Clash at Bowman Gray takes place Sunday in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
  • This is the second year of the Clash taking place at Bowman Gray Stadium, as the Cup Series returned to the historic Bowman Gray Stadium last year for the first time since 1971.
  • The format for the Clash remains similar to the 2025 edition as 23 cars overall will make the main event.
  • Saturday features three practice sessions with entrants split into three groups. The fastest lap time in each car’s final session will determine the starting lineup for the four heat races, meaning no separate qualifying session will take place.
  • The 25-lap heat races will feature up to 10 cars per race, with only green-flag laps counting in each heat with no overtime allotment.
  • The top five finishers in each heat will automatically advance to Sunday night’s main event, while the drivers that finish below fifth will advance to Sunday’s last chance qualifier (LCQ). Starting positions for that race will be determined by the finishing order in the heats. The top two finishers in the LCQ will advance to the Clash and start 21st and 22nd, respectively.
  • The 23rd and final position in the Clash is reserved for the driver who finished highest in the 2025 season points standings that did not otherwise transfer via the heat races or LCQ.
  • The Clash will be 200 laps and feature those 23 cars.

6 Team Info:
Driver: Corey LaJoie
Crew Chief: Jeremy Bullins
Partner: Solomon Plumbing

17 Team Info:
Driver: Chris Buescher
Crew Chief: Scott Graves
Partner: Fifth Third

  • Operational Reliability: R.E. Mason leverages automation, instrumentation, and enterprise solutions to enable manufactures to reliably and consistently achieve optimal performance.
  • End-to-end services: The company provides comprehensive lifecycle support—encompassing design and implementation, cybersecurity, outage management, ongoing 24/7 technical and operational support.
  • Proven experience: With more than 80 years of industry experience, R.E. Mason serves energy and process industries where safety, performance, and uptime are critical.
  • Employee-owned commitment: As an ESOP-owned organization, R.E. Mason emphasizes accountability, long-term partnerships, and sustained customer success.

60 Team Info:
Driver: Ryan Preece
Crew Chief: Derrick Finley
Partner: Kroger / Coca-Cola

LaJoie in the Clash
Starts: 1
Wins: —
Top-10s: —
Poles: —

LaJoie is aiming for his second appearance in the annual preseason, exhibition event. His lone start came at the 2024 Clash at the Coliseum in the No. 7 with Spire Motorsports, where he finished 18th.

Buescher in the Clash
Starts: 3
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

Buescher has three starts in the annual Clash event with a best finish of ninth back in 2017. He most recently finished 10th in last season’s opening race at Bowman Gray after winning his Heat Race.

Preece in the Clash
Starts: 4
Wins: —
Top-10s: 1
Poles: —

Preece looks for his fifth straight appearance in the preseason main event after advancing in each of the past four seasons.
He led 43 laps at the Clash at the Coliseum in 2023, recording his lone top-10 finish at the Clash in that race.

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