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Toyota GAZOO Racing Weekly Preview 10.08.25

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This Week in Motorsports: Oct. 6-12, 2025

NCS/NXS: Las Vegas Motor Speedway – Oct. 10-12
NHRA: Texas Motorplex – Oct. 10-12
ARCA WEST: The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – Oct. 10

PLANO, Texas (Oct. 8, 2025) – The Round of 8 begins for the Cup and Xfinity Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in one of the most pivotal race weekends of the NASCAR season. The ARCA Menards Series West joins the two national series in Las Vegas, taking on the 3/8th-mile ‘Bullring’ on Friday night. NHRA begins the back half of the Countdown to the Championship at Texas Motorplex for the Texas Fall Nationals as championship battles across categories thicken.

NASCAR National Series – NCS/NXS

Joe Gibbs Racing trio continue title push … Three Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) drivers – Denny Hamlin,Christopher Bell and Chase Briscoe – remain in contention for the Cup Series championship with the Playoffs now down to eight drivers. Hamlin begins the Round of 8 as the top seed, eight points above the cutline, while Bell (fifth) and Briscoe (seventh) begin the round under the cutline, four and 14 points below, respectively. A win for either Hamlin or Bell will punch their tickets to another Championship 4 appearance in their careers, while Briscoe seeks his first.

Bell continues strong surge … With a third-place finish at the Charlotte ROVAL last weekend, Bell now has five consecutive top-10 finishes, as well as two straight third-place results. The driver of the No. 20 Toyota Camry XSE for JGR heads back to Las Vegas Motor Speedway this weekend after finishing second in each of the last two fall races. Bell looks to break through Sunday night and lock himself into the title race with a victory.

Toyota still alive for Xfinity Series championships … In the Xfinity Series, Team Toyota has two opportunities to bring home a championship trophy with the series now onto the Round of 8. Brandon Jones remains alive in the drivers’ championship, beginning the round in the third position, four points above the cutline. In the owners’ championship, JGR has two teams remaining with the No. 20 team of Jones as well as the No. 19 team with the victory by Aric Almirola at Bristol in September. The No. 20 team starts the round in fourth, while the No. 19 team begins in seventh.

Bayne to pilot No. 24 GR Supra … Trevor Bayne will step into the No. 24 Toyota GR Supra for Sam Hunt Racing this Saturday at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, his first Xfinity Series start since Texas Motor Speedway in 2023 with JGR. This weekend will be Bayne’s 55th career Xfinity Series start with Toyota. Las Vegas Motor Speedway has also been a place of success for Bayne in the Xfinity Series, where he’s finished inside the top-10 in all six previous starts at the mile-and-a-half oval.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series West

Avedisian makes pavement debut … In this weekend’s ARCA Menards Series West race at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Toyota Development Driver Jade Avedisian will pilot the No. 25 Toyota Camry for Venturini Motorsports. This is Avedisian’s second ARCA start this season, with her series debut coming on the dirt at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds in August. Friday night’s 150-lap event in Las Vegas is also the first pavement start in ARCA for the California native.

NHRA – Top Fuel/Funny Car

Toyota leads Top Fuel points halfway through Countdown … After his victory at World Wide Technology Raceway two weeks ago, Doug Kalitta extended his Top Fuel points lead to 86 points with just three races remaining in the Countdown to the Championship. Behind Kalitta in the title fight is Justin Ashley in second, followed by Shawn Langdon in third. Antron Brown sits seventh in the Top Fuel points with Steve Torrence in eighth. In Funny Car, Ron Capps enters this weekend at Texas Motorplex fourth in the point standings, while J.R. Todd is in 12th.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for nearly 70 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 nearly 64,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 49 million cars and trucks at our 14 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 32 electrified options.

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

JR Motorsports — NXS Las Vegas Motor Speedway Preview

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JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview
TRACK – Las Vegas Motor Speedway (1.5-mile oval)
NXS RACE – Focused Health 302 (201 laps / 301.5 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, PRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 7:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet

Kvapil 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 29

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 6

Top 10s: 13

Laps Led: 64

Avg. Finish: 14

Points: 7th

Carson Kvapil enters the first race of the Round of 8 in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs,11 points below the cutline.

Kvapil will return to Las Vegas Motor Speedway for his second NXS start at the 1.5-mile track this Saturday.

In his one previous start in “Sin City,” Kvapil qualified second and ran the majority of the race within the top-10 until an incident on pit road caused him to finish just outside the top-15.

In 19 starts in the NXS on tracks 1-2 miles in length, the 22-year-old rookie has four top-fives and seven top-10s, with a best finish of second at Dover Motor Speedway last year and EchoPark Speedway earlier this season.

Carson Kvapil

“It feels great transferring into the Round of 8 but this No. 1 team still has a lot to do to keep us in contention. We ran well at Vegas in the Spring, so I know we will unload another fast car this weekend. Hopefully we can stay out of the mess and rack up some points to make up some ground on the cutline. I am looking forward to running out the rest of the season with Bass Pro Shops and Clarience Technologies on board and we’re going to keep working to get some great finishes for Johnny Morris and everyone else who has supported me this season.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture / Rev1 Energy Chevrolet

Allgaier 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 29

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 12

Top 10s: 17

Laps Led: 897

Avg. Finish: 12.7

Points: 2nd

Justin Allgaier heads into the opening race of the Round of 8 in the NXS Playoffs as the second seed, 24 points above the cutline with three races remaining in the round.

Allgaier enters Las Vegas this weekend as the most-recent winner at the 1.5-mile oval, having scored the victory on the strength of leading a race-high 102 laps.

Overall, in 22 career NXS starts in “Sin City,” Allgaier has earned 12 top-fives and 19 top-10s to accompany the victory earlier this year.

Additionally, Allgaier’s average finish of 6.9 in Las Vegas ranks the fourth-best among all tracks that the Illinois native has competed on in the NXS, the third-best among active tracks (Portland – 6.0, Sonoma – 6.3), and the best among all ovals.

Justin Allgaier

“We’ve had this race circled since we left here in the spring. We all know how important it is to start this round off on a strong note and I can’t think of a better place than Las Vegas to get that done. We had an incredible car here in the spring and I know that Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) and all the guys on this BRANDT Professional Agriculture / Rev1 Energy Chevrolet will give me another great one again on Saturday. We know what we need to do and if we can just execute like we have been, we should be in a great position to fight for the win and advance into the Championship 4.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 29

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 15

Laps Led: 62

Avg. Finish: 14.7

Points: 6th

Sammy Smith advanced to the Round of 8 in the NXS Playoffs in nail-biting fashion this past weekend at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval, and currently holds the sixth seed, seven points below the cutline.

Smith heads to Las Vegas this Saturday for his sixth start on the 1.5-mile oval with the NXS since 2023.

In five trips to Las Vegas, Smith has qualified in the top-10 four times, including taking the pole earlier this year.

The No. 8 driver has 54 starts on tracks up to 1.5 miles in length with two wins, 12 top-five and 27 top-10 finishes.

Sammy Smith

“It was such a relief knowing that we advanced to the Round of 8 after the Roval. I felt like I could take a breath of fresh air. This No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet team is a championship-caliber team, we just need to keep putting together complete races like that. Our goal is to have strong races in Las Vegas and Talladega so that we aren’t depending on a good run at Martinsville to advance. This group is ready to go.”

Connor Zilisch

No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet

Zilisch 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 28

Wins: 10

Top 5s: 18

Top 10s: 20

Laps Led: 951

Avg. Finish: 7.9

Points: 1st

Connor Zilisch will begin the Round of 8 in the NXS Playoffs as the points leader in the driver standings, 33 points ahead of second-place Allgaier and 55 above the cutline. The No. 88 team leads the owner standings by 88 points entering Las Vegas.

Zilisch will make his second NXS start at Las Vegas on Saturday afternoon. Zilisch scored a ninth-place finish in the 300-mile event back in March, one of 20 top-10 finishes he has racked up this season.

Zilisch enters Las Vegas fresh off a dominating performance one week ago at the Roval. He won for the 10th time this season, leading 61 of 68 laps.

The Mooresville, N.C., resident won his eighth pole position of the 2025 season at the Roval last weekend and the ninth of his career.

The Roval was the sixth race this season Zilisch has won from the pole.

Connor Zilisch

“Las Vegas is one of the more important races that we will have this season and it’s a really good track for me. I loved racing there earlier this year. I’m excited that we get to go back there and I have an opportunity for redemption. We ran well back in March, but I sped on pit road in the final stage, and we finished ninth. I know if we do our job this weekend, we’ll have a really good shot to win the race. Winning there would be a big stress reliever because we would clinch a spot in the Championship 4.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: JR Motorsports has competed at Las Vegas Motor Speedway a combined 88 times in the NXS since 2006. In those starts at the 1.5-mile oval, the organization has recorded four wins, 35 top-fives and 57 top-10s. The average finish is 11.1. JRM’s first win in the series came at LVMS on March 1, 2008 (Mark Martin).

Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith and Connor Zilisch will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / HMS-Byron/Bowman souvenir rig on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 1:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. PT.

Young’s Motorsports Las Vegas Motor Speedway October Team Preview

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Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway | Focused Health 302

Fast Facts

No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Team:
Driver: Anthony Alfredo
Primary Partner(s): Dude Wipes
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro
Crew Chief: Andrew Abbott
2025 Driver Points Position: 23rd
2025 Owner Points Position: 25th
Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing

Notes of Interest:

● Year Two, Full Throttle: In January, Young’s Motorsports announced that NASCAR Xfinity Series veteran Anthony Alfredo would compete full-time for the team in its second year of Xfinity Series competition.

Alfredo is driving the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro for the entire 33-race schedule, which continues with this Saturday’s Focused Health 302 at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway.

● About Anthony: A popular driver, Alfredo, a native of Ridgefield, Connecticut, joins Young’s Motorsports with an array of Motorsports experience, including starts in the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, respectively.

The 2025 season will mark Alfredo’s fourth full-time Xfinity Series campaign, and he joins the Mooresville, N.C.-based team after spending the 2024 season with Our Motorsports.

The 25-year-old finished 15th in the 2024 Xfinity Series driver standings, highlighted by a Dash 4 Cash victory at Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway. He added two more top-five finishes and seven top-10s to his career totals, further strengthening his résumé across 147 Xfinity Series starts.

● All-Aboard!: For the 30th of 33 Xfinity Series races this season, Young’s Motorsports welcomes back DUDE Wipes as the primary partner on the No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro for the 201-lap race on Saturday afternoon.

DUDE Wipes is the flagship product of DUDE Products, a men’s hygiene company that was founded in 2012 by lifelong friends in Chicago.

The U.S.-based company introduced DUDE Wipes as the first flushable wipe for adults, marketed as a better hygiene solution to dry toilet paper.

The brand is available online and in 20,000 stores nationwide, including Walmart, Target and Amazon.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway marks the 16th race where DUDE Wipes has served as the anchor partner on the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet this season.

● Anthony Alfredo Xfinity Series Las Vegas Motor Speedway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s final trip of the year to Sin City will mark Alfredo’s ninth career start at the incredibly fast 1.5-mile speedway.

Alfredo earned a track-best of eighth after starting eighth in the fall 2020 edition of the Alsco 300 for Richard Childress Racing.

In the spring, Alfredo bettered his 22nd-place qualifying position to earn a respectable 18th-place finish in the No. 42 Dude Wipes Chevrolet Camaro, competing in The LiUNA! NASCAR Xfinity Series Race.

The Xfinity Series veteran driver will look to improve his overall Las Vegas Motor Speedway average finish of 17.6.

Additionally, Alfredo has two NASCAR Cup Series starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway with a best effort of 24th after starting 27th in the 2021 Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube, driving for Front Row Motorsports.

The Ridgefield, Connecticut native also has two NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts in 2019, driving for TRICON Garage. He finished a track-best 12th after starting 15th.

Twenty-nine races into the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season — and with the regular season now in the rearview mirror, Anthony Alfredo and the Young’s Motorsports No. 42 team still plan to make some noise in the Playoffs.

While they won’t compete for a championship, they still have the chance to contend for victories and shake up the Playoff grid in the final stretch of the year.

This weekend, the series heads to Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the Alsco Uniforms 302, the 29th race of the season and the opening round of the semi-final round of the Xfinity Series Playoffs in Sin City.

The 1.5-mile oval is known for producing high-speed action, multiple grooves and late-race strategy gambles that often decide who can maintain their Playoff momentum.

For Alfredo and the No. 42 Chevrolet team, the approach remains simple: go all out for a strong performance or perhaps contend for a win.

A breakthrough victory at Las Vegas would serve as the ultimate payoff for the resilience they’ve shown all season, while also rewriting the Playoff storyline by denying a postseason contender an all-important berth to the Championship 4 and a momentum boost.

Saturday afternoon’s race isn’t just another event — it’s a high-stakes Playoff showdown, where contenders fight to keep their title hopes alive and underdogs like Alfredo and Young’s Motorsports have every opportunity to steal the spotlight.

Then on Sunday, the spotlight shifts to the NASCAR Cup Series with the South Point 400, the opening race of the Round of 8.

With the stakes even higher, fans can expect high drama, bold moves and season-defining moments where every lap is a bet and every move could be a jackpot at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

● Anthony Alfredo Xfinity Series Career Stats: Entering Las Vegas, Alfredo has 147 NASCAR Xfinity Series races to his credit, earning a career-best third-place finish twice, most recently at Talladega Superspeedway after starting 11th in the 2024 edition of the Ag-Pro 300 for Our Motorsports.

Since 2020, he has earned one pole, five top-five, and 23 top-10 finishes and has an average finish of 20.3.

● Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL™ | Blue Cross NC 250 Race Recap: The NASCAR Xfinity Series wrapped up its road course slate last weekend in its own backyard at the ever-demanding Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL™.

Hoping to build momentum at the track just outside the Queen City, Anthony Alfredo, aboard his No. 42 Roth ID Tag Chevrolet Camaro, looked to improve on his 28th-place showing in Saturday morning’s lone practice session.

Mechanical gremlins, however, hampered his efforts, with both power steering and brake issues limiting speed and track time.

Still wrestling with those issues, qualifying did not unfold as planned, leaving Alfredo 34th on the grid.

Matters got even tougher when he was spun on the opening lap of Saturday’s race, forcing him to regroup and claw back from the rear of the field.

From that point forward, the avid iRacer ran a steady, methodical pace.

On a track where passing proved difficult and tire wear was relentless, Alfredo and crew chief Andrew Abbott adjusted strategy and pushed ahead, ultimately working their way back into contention for a top-20 finish.

Surviving a chaotic overtime restart, Alfredo brought the No. 42 Chevrolet home in 23rd — a solid improvement from his starting spot and a respectable result at the 2.28-mile, 17-turn ROVAL™.

With the arrival of the homestretch, Young’s Motorsports will lean on their experience and never-give-up attitude to propel them forward through the remainder of the season.

This closing stretch features an intermediate, a superspeedway and two short tracks to close out the year.

● Calling the Shots: Guiding Alfredo as crew chief of the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro is longtime crew chief Andrew Abbott.

On Saturday afternoon, he will be crew chief in his 159th NASCAR Xfinity Series race. In his previous 158 races, he has four top-five and 14 top-10 finishes.

The season’s 30th race will be his ninth tango at Las Vegas Motor Speedway as crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ fourth NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

In the team’s three previous Xfinity events at the 1.5-mile desert oval, Young’s Motorsports has delivered a track-best finish of 18th on two occasions.

The first came during the team’s inaugural season in March 2024 with rookie Leland Honeyman Jr., while Anthony Alfredo matched that effort earlier this season with an 18th-place finish after starting 22nd in the fifth race of the 2025 Xfinity Series season.

While the family-owned team’s Xfinity resume at Las Vegas is still growing, Young’s Motorsports has extensive experience at the track in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series.

Since 2014, the team has logged 32 Truck Series starts at Las Vegas, producing an average starting position of 24.1 and an average finish of 21.4.

The organization earned a Truck Series team-best finish of 10th with current Xfinity Series standout Austin Hill in the Stratosphere 200 on March 2, 2018.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series History: Since entering the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2024, the family-owned organization has logged 62 starts and maintains an average starting position of 25.7 and an average finish of 23.7.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Anthony Alfredo, please visit AnthonyAlfredo.com, like him on Facebook (Anthony Alfredo Racing), follow him on Instagram (@anthonyalfredo) and X | Twitter (@anthonyalfredo).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Anthony Alfredo Pre-Race Quotes:

On Returning to Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “I am excited to return to Las Vegas Motor Speedway, because it’s always great to race at a place where you have notes from earlier in the season, especially since our intermediate track program has improved significantly since we were last there.”

On Biggest Challenges at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “Las Vegas can be a fairly straightforward race and is one of the few races on the NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule that often has a green flag pitstop in the final stage.

“If it comes to that, execution will be key.”

On Comparing the Spring Las Vegas Race to the Fall: “I believe a lot will translate from the spring race to the fall race this weekend, so understanding those trends should help significantly.”

On the Keys to Success at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “If there is a green flag stop in the final stage, executing that well as a team will be the deciding factor on where we finish.”

On Goals for Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “We’ve had top 20 speed at the intermediates, so that’s definitely the expectation. My goal is to build on that and bring home a top 15 finish on Saturday afternoon.

On Goals for the Remainder of 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Season: “We need to continue performing at a high level and finishing well throughout the rest of the season.

“Our team has fought a lot of adversity this year, but we need to remain focused on running our own race each week and controlling what we can control through the end of the season.

“Our main goal for the final few weeks of racing should be to execute at a high level and control what is in our control. That’s really all we can do and hopefully that allows us to finish the year on a high note.

“I have faith we can make the top 20 in points, even though it seems like a far reach.”

On the Most Recent NASCAR Xfinity Series Race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL™: “We fought a lot of adversity at the ROVAL between power steering and brake issues in practice and qualifying, all the way to getting spun out on the first lap of the race.

“Seems like it was all about survival, but I felt like our end result could’ve been better.”

Race Information:

The Focused Health 302 (201 laps | 301.5 miles) is the 30th of thirty-three (33) races on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule. Practice is set for Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. PT, with qualifying immediately following at 12:05 p.m. PT. The 38-car field will take the green flag shortly after 4:30 p.m. PT (7:30 p.m. ET), with live coverage on The CW Network, the Performance Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local in the Pacific Time Zone.

JEGS RETURNS TO THE TRACK WITH JEG JR. AND TROY COUGHLIN JR. BEHIND THE WHEEL FOR 2026 NHRA SEASON WITH ELITE MOTORSPORTS

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WYNNEWOOD, Okla. (Oct. 08, 2025) – Elite Motorsports and JEGS, a leader in aftermarket high-performance auto parts, have announced primary sponsorship of two Pro Stock machines in the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season. Six-time world champion Jeg Coughlin Jr. will join his nephew Troy Coughlin Jr. in the yellow and black livery synonymous with the JEGS brand.

“We’re excited to double down on our racing heritage with two JEGS cars hitting the track in 2026, bringing together the legendary experience of Jeg Jr. and the rising talent of Troy Coughlin Jr. under our iconic yellow and black colors,” said Gabe Mendoza, CEO of JEGS. “This partnership with Elite Motorsports represents more than just sponsorship – it’s a celebration of the racing DNA that has driven JEGS for over six decades and our commitment to supporting the next generation of champions. Having both drivers represent JEGS gives us incredible momentum as we gear up for our next season.”

Jeg Jr., whose father Jeg Coughlin Sr. founded JEGS, spent much of his professional drag racing career representing the family company until he retired at the end of the 2020 season. Jeg Jr. returned to full-time Pro Stock racing in 2024 in the cat’s eye gold of SCAG Power Equipment for Elite Motorsports. Since his return, Jeg Jr. has won four races in six final round appearances, and in 2024 he finished fifth in the championship points standings. He’s currently sitting ninth in the standings with three races left in the 2025 season. Jeg Jr.’s return to the iconic JEGS car will be reminiscent of a homecoming for the drag racing legend.

“The 2026 season will kick off with a lot of familiarity for me, and I couldn’t be more proud to drive the brilliant, bold and famous yellow and black JEGS machine,” Jeg Jr. said. “Naturally, it’s a brand that is near and dear to not only myself, but the entire family, so this is going to be great. Racing beside Troy Jr., who will be in his unique midnight matte black and yellow JEGS-designed car, will really be a statement, and I can tell you we are both excited to unite with the millions of JEGS customers and fans along the NHRA 20-race tour in 2026.”

Troy Jr. has represented the JEGS brand in Pro Stock for Elite Motorsports since 2021, taking over for Jeg Jr. after his retirement. Since handling driving duties, Troy Jr. has earned five wins in 11 final round appearances and finished a career-best fourth in the points standings in 2022.“There is a huge sense of pride wearing the yellow and black of JEGS. It’s one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Troy Jr. “Jeg Jr. has helped me learn driving, drag racing, and the business side of JEGS. We’re extremely blessed and grateful, with high expectations to perform our best for the brand and family.”

Jeg Jr. and Troy Jr. will continue their 2025 NHRA Drag Racing Series season with the Texas NHRA FallNationals at the Texas Motorplex Oct. 10-12, the fourth of six events in the NHRA Countdown to the Championship. The weekend will feature the JEGS AllStars, a race-within-a-race program for NHRA’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series competitors, and JEGS Friday Night Live for the Mission Foods NHRA professional categories.

The 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season kicks off with the NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway March 5-8 in Gainesville, Florida.

DODGE NAMED TITLE SPONSOR OF FAN-FAVORITE NHRA NEVADA NATIONALS IN LAS VEGAS

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The 25th annual Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is the fifth of six playoff races

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 8, 2025) – NHRA officials announced today that Dodge and Direct Connection have been named the title sponsor of the upcoming fall race at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

The 25th annual Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection serves as the penultimate event of the 20-race season in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. It takes place Oct. 30-Nov. 2 at the standout facility in Las Vegas and also serves as the fifth of six races in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs, promising plenty of excitement during a can’t-miss weekend.

For a quarter-century, the fall race in Las Vegas has produced an incredible weekend and atmosphere as the championship contenders in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle look for a memorable late-season win. With several tight championship races in 2025, fans can expect another amazing weekend in Las Vegas at the Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection.

“The 2025 NHRA season is wrapping up, and Dodge is powering up to finish strong, serving as the title sponsor of the Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. “Dodge has enjoyed much success at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with Matt Hagan scoring five career victories and Tony Stewart taking his first Top Fuel win earlier this year, and we’re looking forward to another unforgettable weekend.”

Dodge and Direct Connection are heavily embedded in the NHRA ranks, also serving as a partner for Tony Stewart Racing and their star Top Fuel and Funny Car teams. Racing legend Tony Stewart won the regular-season championship in Top Fuel this season, picking up a victory at the spring Las Vegas race. He’s currently fourth in points, while four-time Funny Car champion Matt Hagan won the most recent race in St. Louis and sits second in points. The veteran has 53 career wins, including five at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

“We’re thrilled to have Dodge and Direct Connection as the sponsor of our Las Vegas event,” said Brad Gerber, NHRA vice president and chief development officer. “The fall race in Las Vegas is one of the most exciting stops on the NHRA tour, and having Dodge’s iconic brand attached only heightens that excitement. Dodge has a long and storied history of supporting NHRA drag racing and we’re all looking forward to an incredible weekend in Las Vegas.”

Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) each won the fall race in Las Vegas last year. This season’s race will be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations on Sunday, Nov. 2.

Pro Stock’s Erica Enders has dominated The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway over the years, as her 10 wins at the fan-favorite facility are the most in NHRA history. Tony Schumacher’s eight wins are the most in Top Fuel, with reigning champ Antron Brown right behind with six, while Ron Capps’ six victories in Funny Car is tied for the most at the track with John Force and Robert Hight. Reigning Pro Stock world champ Greg Anderson has eight wins at the standout facility.

The Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which includes some of the sport’s top drivers, and the Summit Racing Series ET Finals, where world champions will be crowned. The event also serves as the season finale in the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series.

To purchase tickets to the Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, please call 800-644-4444 or visit www.lvms.com. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com. For more information on the Dodge brand, visit Dodge.com.

About Dodge

For 111 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their influence continues today as Dodge, America’s performance brand, shifts into high gear with a lineup that delivers unrivaled performance in each of its segments.

The new, next-generation Dodge Charger multi-energy lineup is led by the 670-horsepower Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack – the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car. For 2026, the all-new 550-horsepower Dodge Charger Scat Pack, powered by the 3.0L Twin Turbo SIXPACK H.O. engine, expands the Charger lineup, powered by the most powerful Hurricane engine in production.

Dodge also keeps its foot on the pedal as a pure performance brand with the 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful gas engine SUV ever, and best-in-class standard performance in the compact-utility vehicle segment with the Dodge Hornet.

For more information on the Dodge brand, visit Dodge.com.

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

ARCA Menards Series West at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
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THE RACE: Star Nursery 150 Presented by
The West Coast Stock Car Motorsports Hall of Fame
THE PLACE: The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Nev.
THE DATE: Friday, October 10, 2025
THE TIME: 10:00 pm ET / 7 pm PT
TV: FloRacing, Live

  • Twenty-one cars are entered for Friday night’s ARCA Menards Series West Star Nursery 150 at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It is the largest entry list for a stand-alone short track race in 2025 for the West series.
  • Trevor Huddleston (No. 50 High Point Racing / Racecar Factory Ford) leads the ARCA Menards Series West standings by 18 points over Kyle Keller (No. 71 Jan’s Towing / Jan’s Racing Ford) with two races remaining in the season. Huddleston finished second the last time the West raced at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2023; Keller finished sixth.
  • Las Vegas native Tanner Reif (No. 13 Central Coast Cabinets / Vegas Fastener Toyota) will try to get off a mini-slump entering his home race. Reif is still third in the ARCA Menards Series West standings but has dropped to 38 points out of the lead after five straight finishes outside the top five, including a pair of eighth-place finishes in the two most recent races at All American Speedway and Madera Speedway. Reif finished third at The Bullring in 2023.
  • All American Speedway winner Robbie Kennealy (No. 1 Jan’s Towing / Jan’s Racing Ford) will be chasing after his sixth top-five finish of the season at The Bullring. Kennealy is fourth in the West standings but is just four points behind Tanner Reif in third. Kennealy finished eighth in his first appearance at The Bullring in 2023.
  • Eric Johnson, Jr. (No. 5 Sherwin – Williams Toyota) will be joined out of the Jerry Pitts Racing stable by Las Vegas native Gavin Ray (No. 6 Jerry Pitts Racing Toyota). Johnson is fifth in the ARCA Menards Series West standings, just six points out of third. Ray finished sixth in his only other career start at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway in January.
  • For the first time since the 1995 season finale, Bill McAnally Racing will not field an entry in an ARCA Menards Series West race breaking a 30-year streak of 395 races in which the team has fielded at least one entry. The team has focused its efforts on its two teams in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs and drivers Tyler Ankrum and Daniel Hemric, both of whom are currently second and third in the series standings. BMR has indicated they will return to the West Series on a full-time basis in 2026.
  • Venturini Motorsports has entered three drivers for the team’s last-ever start: Thomas Annunziata (No. 15 Nitro Motorsports Toyota), Jade Avedisian (No. 20 Mobil 1 Toyota), and Taylor Reimer (No. 25 BuzzBallz Toyota). It is the last race for the team that traces its roots in the ARCA Menards Series platform to 1982.
  • Two-time NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series national champion Connor Hall (No. 24 Sigma Performance Services Chevrolet) will make his first career ARCA Menards Series West start and his first ARCA Menards Series platform start since he finished 20th in the 2020 season opener at Daytona International Speedway. Hall drives for JR Motorsports in the CARS Tour Late Model Stock Car division; he currently sits second in the standings with one race remaining, 18 points behind former West Series winner Landen Lewis.
  • Spencer Gallagher (No. 23 Spencer Clark Driven / 3rd Gen / Phil’s Fabrication / GMS Toyota) will make his eighth career ARCA Menards Series West start and his second of 2025. Gallagher has one previous West appearance at The Bullring, finishing 24th in 2011.
  • Andy Hillenburg’s Fast Track High Performance Racing Team has entered two drivers, Bryce Haugeberg (No. 11North Dakota State University / Brenco Ford) and Dustin Hillenburg (No. 12 Fast Track Racing / Double H Ranch Toyota).
  • The Star Nursery 150 Presented by The West Coast Stock Car Motorsports Hall of Fame will be streamed live on FloRacing starting at 10:00 pm ET / 7:00 pm PT on Friday, October 10. Live timing & scoring data and live race audio will be available on ARCARacing.com; for up-to-the-minute updates please follow @ARCA_Racing on X (formerly known as Twitter).

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 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 www.arcaracing.com, 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.

Top 5 Mistakes Australians Make When Selling Their Car

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

Selling your car can feel like a fresh start, whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or simply ready for a change. But many Australians make small yet costly mistakes that can turn a simple sale into a drawn-out, frustrating process. By knowing what to avoid, you can save time, attract serious buyers, and get the best possible return.

Mistake 1 – Overpricing the Vehicle

One of the biggest errors sellers make is setting a price based on emotion rather than market reality. You might love your car and feel it’s worth every dollar, but buyers are comparing listings, mileage, and model years. Overpricing can cause your ad to sit untouched for weeks, forcing you to lower the price later anyway.

Instead, do your research before listing. Check car valuation websites like RedBook or Carsales to find out what similar vehicles are selling for. Consider factors such as age, condition, service history, and mileage. Pricing slightly below market value can actually draw more interest and help you sell faster.

Mistake 2 – Neglecting Presentation and Minor Repairs

First impressions count, and buyers often make up their minds within seconds of seeing your car. A dirty, cluttered, or poorly maintained vehicle signals neglect and reduces perceived value.

Take time to thoroughly wash and vacuum the car, polish the paint, and clean the windows. Fix small issues like broken lights or worn wipers, and top up fluids. These minor efforts can make your vehicle look cared for and worth its asking price.

If you’re selling privately, take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles. The better your car looks online, the more interest you’ll attract.

Mistake 3 – Incomplete or Missing Paperwork

Few things kill a sale faster than missing paperwork. Buyers want confidence that they’re making a legitimate purchase, and incomplete documentation raises red flags.

Before listing your car, gather everything you’ll need: registration papers, service records, receipts for recent maintenance, and any warranty details. Having this ready builds trust and helps close the deal faster. A well-documented history can even justify a slightly higher price.

Mistake 4 – Poor Advertising and Limited Exposure

Even if your car is in great shape, a weak listing can cost you potential buyers. Many sellers post vague descriptions, blurry photos, or forget to highlight key features like fuel efficiency, safety ratings, or new tyres.

When writing your ad, focus on honesty and detail. Mention anything that makes your car stand out, and be transparent about any flaws to avoid wasting time later. 

Post your ad across multiple platforms, including social media and car-selling sites, to reach a wider audience.

Good communication also matters. Respond promptly to inquiries and be polite when negotiating. A friendly, professional approach makes buyers more likely to commit.

Mistake 5 – Ignoring Professional Options

Many sellers assume they’ll make more money by selling privately, but this isn’t always true. The private route often means dealing with time-wasters, lowball offers, and the stress of haggling. An alternative is to explore professional car-buying services that handle the process quickly and securely. 

For example, companies that offer top cash for cars can provide instant quotes, handle paperwork, and arrange same-day payment. It’s a great option for those who value convenience and want to avoid the hassle of private sales. While you might not squeeze out every last dollar, you save time and avoid risks, especially if you need to sell fast.

Final Thoughts

Selling your car doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require preparation and awareness. Avoiding these five common mistakes can mean the difference between a quick, profitable sale and a frustrating experience.

By pricing realistically, presenting your car well, keeping your documents in order, writing a clear ad, and considering professional help, you’ll be in a strong position to sell with confidence and get the value your car truly deserves.

Wright Motorsports Set for Dual Championship Battles at Petit Le Mans

By
Official Release
-

BRASELTON, Ga. (October 8, 2025) — Wright Motorsports is gearing up for one of the most important weekends of its 2025 season, as the Ohio-based Porsche team heads to Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta for the final rounds of both the VP Racing SportsCar Challenge and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. With championships on the line in both series, the team is ready for a high-stakes finale at the Motul Petit Le Mans weekend.

In the VP Racing SportsCar Challenge, Adam Adelson enters the weekend with a commanding 210-point lead in the GTDX class championship, driving the No. 24 Wright Motorsports Porsche 911 GT3 R. With three wins already this season, Adelson has been a dominant force in the class, showcasing consistency and control from start to finish. Two races remain on the calendar at Road Atlanta, where he’ll look to secure his the title and cap off a standout season.

Adelson will then turn his focus to the 10-hour Motul Petit Le Mans, joining Elliott Skeer and Tom Sargent in the No. 120 Porsche 911 GT3 R. The trio arrives with strong momentum following a second-place finish at Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Battle on the Bricks and enters the finale just three points behind the IMSA Endurance Cup championship leaders.

Points for the endurance title will be awarded at the four-, eight-, and ten-hour marks, making every lap and pit stop critical as the team fights for its first Endurance Cup crown.

The Wright Motorsports crew has been a model of preparation and execution throughout the year, building on the team’s deep experience at endurance events. Petit Le Mans stands as one of the most challenging and prestigious races on the IMSA calendar and will serve as both a championship decider and a final opportunity for Adelson, Skeer, and Sargent to finish the season with a statement performance.

The event begins Wednesday, October 8, with a full schedule of practices, qualifying, and support races before Saturday’s main event, which will take the green flag at 12:10 PM Eastern and run through 10:10 PM under the lights. Fans can watch all three races live on Peacock, and international audience can stream Petit Le Mans on the IMSA YouTube Channel.

As the 2025 season reaches its conclusion, Wright Motorsports stands poised to close the year with two major championship victories, demonstrating once again the team’s commitment to excellence, preparation, and performance in every series it contests.

DRIVER QUOTES

Adam Adelson

It’s been a hell of a season for us this year, with some very high highs but unfortunately more lows. That’s just the name of the game in multi-manufacturer racing, sometimes you have the performance and sometimes you don’t, and this year we didn’t. Regardless, I’m so proud of how we performed this year and how we never gave up despite the adversity we faced. I’m extremely proud of what we accomplished with what we had. Going into Petit, we have both the VP Racing Challenge Championship and the IMEC Championship to fight for, and we’re ready for it. The whole team have been working extremely hard to prepare for this event, and I’m fully confident in the efforts undertaken to do so.

Elliott Skeer

I feel positive going into Petit Le Mans. The last four to five races have been very well executed as a whole by everyone on the team. Indianapolis was a real motivation booster in finally getting a full weekend to go our way, and ultimately the same approach should hopefully work at Petit as well. I know that Adam, Tom, and I are looking to end what has been a hard season, on the largest positive we can manage. I’ll be 10hrs of driving the Porsche as hard as it can go!

Thomas Sargent

The first race I came to watch in the USA was Petit Le Mans in 2022. To now have the chance to finish off my first IMSA championship at Petit is such a complete circle. I’ve waited so long to be able to drive at this track so I’m beyond excited. Coming off the back of a strong six hour race only makes us more confident for this one.

SCHEDULE | PETIT LE MANS | ALL TIMES EASTERN

Wednesday, October 8

9:05 AM – 9:45 AM VP Challenge Practice 1

1:50 PM – 2:30 PM VP Challenge Practice 2

4:45 PM – 5:00 PM VP Challenge GTD X Qualifying

Thursday, October 9

10:40 AM – 12:10 PM WeatherTech Practice 1

1:05 PM – 1:50 PM VP Challenge Race 1

3:15 PM – 4:45 PM WeatherTech Practice 2

7:30 PM – 9:00 PM WeatherTech Practice 3

Friday, October 10

8:30 AM – 9:15 AM VP Challenge Race 2

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM WeatherTech Autograph Session

3:20 PM – 3:35 PM WeatherTech GTD Qualifying

Saturday, October 11

10:50 AM – 11:50 AM Open Grid Fan Walk

12:10 PM – 10:10 PM Petit Le Mans

Wright Motorsports

Wright Motorsports is a championship-winning Porsche customer racing team based in Batavia, Ohio, with a proven legacy in North American sports car racing. Over the last two decades, the team has become synonymous with professionalism, precision, and performance, competing in top-tier series including the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, SRO Fanatec GT World Challenge America, Porsche Carrera Cup North America, and more. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Wright Motorsports offers full-service race programs, driver development, and technical expertise to amateur and professional drivers alike. The team continues to grow its presence across North America and beyond while laying the foundation for future innovation in motorsport engineering and vehicle development.

TOP FUEL’S DOUG KALITTA AFTER ANOTHER BIG WEEKEND AT STAMPEDE OF SPEED AND TEXAS NHRA FALLNATIONALS

By
Official Release
-

ENNIS, Texas (Oct. 7, 2025) – Top Fuel standout Doug Kalitta has had an ideal start to the NHRA Countdown to the Championship, advancing to the final round at the first three playoff races.

Heading to Texas Motorplex this weekend with a commanding points lead, Kalitta would love to keep that streak going to close out the main event of the 10-day Stampede of Speed, the 40th annual Texas NHRA FallNationals.

The massive event starts the second half of the playoffs in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and Kalitta is in the driver’s seat, holding an 86-point lead over Justin Ashley with three races remaining.

Kalitta won the most recent race in St. Louis and a second straight victory would make the veteran a strong favorite to clinch a second world title. He’s also thrilled to return to Texas Motorplex in his 12,000-horsepower Mobil DELVAC 100th Anniversary dragster, focused on putting on a great show at the can’t-miss event.

“What Billy Meyer and his family have put together down there, it’s just an incredible race. It’s going to be epic, as it always is,” Kalitta said. “We will do our normal thing and show up on Friday, and we will definitely be hitting the ground running there. With that concrete track, it’s pretty forgiving and it usually bodes well with our tune-up. It’s a humbling sport, so you just have to keep your head down and just keep trying to get the win lights to come on.”

In 2024, Ashley (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won the Wally and the coveted Texas Motorplex cowboy hat. For this year’s race, the winners will receive a special, one-time only navy cowboy hat to commemorate the special 40th anniversary of the event.

The event will be broadcast on FS1 and FOX, with eliminations taking place on FOX on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 2 or 4:30 p.m. ET, depending on local listings.

The race, the 18th of 20 this year, starts with a bang with two qualifying rounds on Friday and the highly-anticipated “JEGS Friday Night Live,” featuring the popular “Battle for the Saddle.” It puts more than $40,000 in bonus money on the line for drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle. The low qualifier under the lights on Friday night will net Top Fuel and Funny Car stars $15,000 each in bonus money, with $7,500 going to the quickest qualifier in Pro Stock and $5,000 in Pro Stock Motorcycle.

As part of the Friday night festivities, fans are encouraged to wear black and yellow as part of a special “Black and Yellow Bash,” adding another thrilling aspect to “JEGS Friday Night Live” and the weekend’s 40th anniversary celebration.

Kalitta will be one of the marquee attractions throughout the weekend as he looks for a fourth win this season against a loaded field that includes Ashley, teammate Shawn Langdon, regular-season champion Tony Stewart, reigning world champ Antron Brown, Clay Millican and Brittany Force, who is retiring from full-time racing at the end of the year.

Kalitta, though, remains focused on just his team and what they can accomplish this weekend with a second world title within reach.

“The points can swing out here. It’s all about getting as many as you can,” Kalitta said. “For me, staying ahead would be nice. We’re very fortunate right now, but we’ll see how it shakes out. Being ahead is definitely where we want to stay, but it’s going to take every point you can possibly get with the Top Fuel group; everybody’s running strong. We try not to get too caught up in the points thing; it’ll catch up to itself at the end of the day, so we just have to focus on getting the job done.”

Hagan won his fifth NHRA FallNationals Funny Car event last season over Ron Capps. Reigning champ Austin Prock leads the points after winning eight races this year, but Hagan has closed the gap to 20 points following his St. Louis win. Others to watch include Jack Beckman, Daniel Wilkerson, Paul Lee and Reading winner Cruz Pedregon.

Five-time world champ Coughlin won at Texas Motorplex last season when he defeated Greg Anderson, who claimed his sixth Pro Stock world title in 2024. This season has been dominated by Anderson and Dallas Glenn, who is the points leader. Glenn has six wins in 2025, including two playoff races, while Anderson is right behind after his St. Louis triumph

Two-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champ Herrera won his second straight NHRA FallNationals last season over the six-time champ Matt Smith. Herrera moved to second in points following his St. Louis win, trailing teammate Richard Gadson by 29 points.

The Texas NHRA FallNationals will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which includes some of the sport’s top drivers and begins racing on Wednesday, Oct. 8. The event is preceded by a Division 4 race in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series at the historic facility. The weekend will include the finale of the exciting Holley EFI Factory X category and the Jr. Dragster Shootout.

Fans will also be treated to the JEG’s Allstars event, which pits sportsman racers from across the country against each other for the ultimate drag racing battle, beginning on Friday, Oct. 10. The popular competition moved to the famed Texas Motorplex in 2023, the unique specialty race is back as a major highlight of the 2025 Stampede of Speed as one of most highly-anticipated sportsman events of the year.

Leading into the race weekend, fans can take part in several events as part of the massive 10-day Stampede for Speed festival. That includes the NHRA Divisional race (October 6-7), Stampede of Speed Shootout (October 7), and the popular NHRA FanFest at Railyard Park in downtown Waxahachie (October 9), where fans can meet and get autographs from all the top stars in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and the JEGS Allstars participants.

At the track, fans will be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage in the pits for Nitro School, meet and greets, music and much more. Race fans at Texas Motorplex can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans can congratulate the event winners.

Fans with reserved tickets with a pit pass get access to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction. They can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise and food.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 4:15 and 7 p.m. CT on Friday, Oct. 10, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 12 and 2:30 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10 a.m. CT on Sunday, Oct. 12. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, leading into eliminations on FOX at either 2 or 4:30 p.m. ET (check local listings).

To purchase tickets to the Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex, call 800-668-6775 or visit tickets.texasmotorplex.com. For info about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

How to Make a Race Weekend Affordable Without Missing Out

By
SM
-
Photo by toine G on Unsplash

Race weekends are exciting, high-energy events that attract fans from all over. Whether it’s Formula 1, NASCAR, IndyCar, or a local track, the combination of speed, noise, and atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience.

But the cost of tickets, travel, food, and merchandise can quickly add up, making it important to plan carefully if you want to enjoy the weekend without overspending.

With a little strategy, you can still get the full race-day thrill while keeping your budget in check. From smart choices on lodging and tickets to thoughtful approaches to food and souvenirs, there are many ways to make a race weekend both affordable and memorable.

Choosing Tickets and Seating Wisely

Tickets often make up the largest expense for a race weekend, so choosing wisely is key. Grandstand seats with the best views will always cost more, but general admission or less central sections often provide just as much excitement at a fraction of the price. Sometimes, standing areas near the track let you feel closer to the action for less money.

To capture the atmosphere, many fans bring an action camera to record their experience. From the roar of engines to the energy in the crowd, these devices help preserve memories without the need for expensive extras.

The footage often makes the weekend feel just as special as sitting in the most premium section.

Saving on Lodging

Whether you’re visiting one of the best racing venues or a smaller one, hotels nearby often raise their prices during race weekends, and they can sell out quickly. Booking early can help, but travelers on a budget may want to look at options a bit farther away.

Staying in smaller towns or booking short-term rentals can be more affordable, even when factoring in the cost of commuting.

Camping is another popular option that not only saves money but also keeps you close to the action. Many tracks allow fans to camp on-site, creating a fun atmosphere where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and avoid expensive parking fees.

Bringing Your Own Food and Drinks

Food inside the venue can be costly, with prices for snacks, meals, and drinks often much higher than outside. If the venue rules allow it, bringing your own cooler with drinks and packed meals is one of the easiest ways to save. Even bringing simple snacks and water bottles can cut down on spending significantly.

Outside the event, look for local diners or family-owned restaurants instead of chain establishments near the track. These places often provide better value while giving you a taste of the local community.

Being Smart with Merchandise

It can be tempting to buy souvenirs like hats, shirts, or collectibles at the track, but official merchandise is often sold at a premium price. To save, consider purchasing gear like custom jerseys online before the race or checking for discounted items after the event. Wearing your team’s colors doesn’t have to mean paying top dollar.

If you do want to buy something on-site, set a budget in advance and stick to it. This allows you to take home a keepsake without overspending on impulse purchases.

Maximizing Transportation Options

Parking fees at major race events can be steep, and traffic around the track can add extra stress. To cut costs, check if public transportation, shuttles, or carpooling options are available. Many fans coordinate rides with friends or use rideshare services to split expenses.

If you’re driving, arriving early can sometimes secure cheaper parking spots farther from the main entrances. Some fans even park in nearby neighborhoods with permission, avoiding official lot fees altogether.

Finding Value Beyond the Track

Race weekends often include more than just the main event. Many venues host fan zones, autograph sessions, or live entertainment that come at no extra charge with your ticket. Exploring these extras helps you get the most value without spending additional money.

Local attractions outside the track also provide affordable ways to round out the trip. Visiting nearby landmarks, museums, or community events can make the weekend feel like a mini-vacation without adding much to your budget.

Enjoying the Experience Without Overspending

At its core, a race weekend is about the thrill of being part of the action—the sound of engines, the atmosphere of the crowd, and the memories made with friends or family.

You don’t need front-row seats or expensive add-ons to feel the excitement. By being mindful of your budget, you can still enjoy every essential part of the experience.

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