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Why Cash for Unwanted Cars is Your Best Option for Junk Vehicles

Understanding the Value of Your Junk Vehicle

Every vehicle reaches the end of its lifespan eventually. Whether it’s due to age, damage, or mechanical failure, keeping an unwanted car in your garage or driveway does nothing but take up valuable space. Many vehicle owners fail to realize that even the most deteriorated car still holds considerable value. Opting for a cash for cars service turns that forgotten junk vehicle into instant money.

Choosing a reputable buyer offering Cash for Unwanted Cars ensures a hassle-free process, free towing, and immediate payment. It’s an efficient way to declutter your property while making extra income from something you no longer use or need.

Junkyards and auto recyclers are constantly seeking old vehicles for scrap metal, reusable parts, and recycling purposes. By leveraging this demand, you can easily convert your non-running or outdated car into cash with minimal effort.

Top Reasons to Choose Cash for Cars Services

Quick and Hassle-Free Process

Traditional selling methods can be time-consuming. From creating online ads to negotiating with buyers and arranging viewings, it can take weeks or even months to sell a junk vehicle. Cash for unwanted cars services streamline this process entirely. Most providers offer free quotes, immediate offers, and same-day vehicle pickup. No need for advertising, dealing with strangers, or waiting for payment.

Instant Payment and No Hidden Fees

Cash for cars services are known for transparency and convenience. Once you agree on a quote, most companies provide cash on the spot. There’s no waiting period for checks to clear or funds to transfer. Furthermore, reputable services do not charge for towing or paperwork processing, ensuring you receive the maximum value without deductions.

Eco-Friendly Auto Recycling

Disposing of a junk car through proper channels ensures it’s handled responsibly. These companies follow environmentally friendly practices, recycling usable parts and properly disposing of hazardous fluids. This prevents pollution, reduces landfill waste, and contributes to sustainable resource management.

Benefits That Go Beyond Financial Gain

Free Up Valuable Space

Unwanted vehicles can take up driveway or garage space that could be used for more practical purposes. By removing that old car, you reclaim space for new vehicles, outdoor storage, or property improvements.

Avoid Legal and Safety Risks

An abandoned or non-running vehicle on your property can become a liability. Expired registration, fluid leaks, or sharp body panels can pose safety and legal issues. Cash for junk car services help you avoid these complications by legally transferring ownership and removing the car professionally.

No Need for Repairs or Cleaning

Unlike private sales, where buyers often expect operational vehicles in good condition, cash-for-car services accept vehicles as-is. Whether your car has engine failure, body damage, or is entirely non-functional, you don’t need to invest in expensive repairs or detailing. These services buy cars in any condition.

What Types of Vehicles Qualify?

Cash-for-car services typically accept a wide range of vehicles, including:

  • Wrecked or totaled cars
  • Old and high-mileage vehicles
  • Cars with missing parts or mechanical failure
  • Flood-damaged or fire-damaged vehicles
  • Vehicles without a current registration or title (in some states)

Whether it’s a compact car, SUV, van, or even a truck, most services will make an offer regardless of make, model, or condition.

How to Choose a Reputable Cash for Cars Company

Check Reviews and Ratings

Always research the company online before committing. Look for businesses with positive customer reviews, verified testimonials, and a professional website. Transparency and customer satisfaction are strong indicators of a trustworthy operation.

Compare Quotes

To ensure you’re receiving a fair price, request quotes from multiple buyers. Reliable companies provide free, no-obligation estimates based on your car’s make, model, condition, and location.

Verify Licensing and Insurance

Choose a provider that is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. This protects you from liability during vehicle removal and guarantees compliance with local regulations.

Conclusion

Selling a junk vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated. With a trusted cash for unwanted cars service, you can quickly eliminate an eyesore, gain immediate cash, and contribute to environmentally responsible recycling. The process is fast, efficient, and tailored for convenience. If you’re looking for the best way to get rid of a junk car, cash for cars is undeniably the smartest choice.

Power Tops Shortened First Day at Indy as Penske, Ganassi Stand Tall

INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, May 13, 2025) – Team Penske and Chip Ganassi Racing – two of the most storied teams in INDYCAR SERIES history – dominated the opening day of practice for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Tuesday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

2018 Indianapolis 500 winner Will Power led a Team Penske 1-2 on the speed charts in a weather-shortened session at 227.026 in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet, a hot lap in the last 30 minutes of practice. Two-time defending “500” winner Josef Newgarden was second at 226.971 in the No. 2 Shell V-Power NiTRO+ Team Penske Chevrolet. Newgarden is trying to become the first driver to win “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” three consecutive years.

Practice started two hours, 32 minutes late due to intermittent rain and damp track conditions, and the session ended 32 minutes early due to lightning strikes within the vicinity of the historic 2.5-mile oval.

“I think we’ve got a pretty good baseline,” Power said. “My teammates are pretty good. I learned a thing or two off them. It’s (Indianapolis 500) almost its own championship in itself. You’ve got to look for your weaknesses and improve.”

Dominant NTT INDYCAR SERIES points leader Alex Palou was the fastest of the Ganassi stable, third at 226.673 in the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda. Three-time series champion Palou has won four of the first five races this season, including the Sonsio Grand Prix on Saturday on the IMS road course, as he aims to earn his first Indianapolis 500 victory and his third consecutive season title.

Six-time series champion and 2008 “500” winner Scott Dixon was fourth at 225.059 in the No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda. 2024 “500” pole winner Scott McLaughlin was the third Team Penske driver in the top five with his best lap of 225.005 in the No. 3 Pennzoil Team Penske Chevrolet.

Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves was fastest among drivers from other teams, sixth at 224.523 in the No. 06 Cliffs Honda fielded by Meyer Shank Racing w/Curb-Agajanian.

All 34 drivers attempting to earn one of the 33 spots in the starting field turned a total of 1,549 laps (3,872.5 miles) in the shortened session today.

On-track activity will resume at 10 a.m. Wednesday with a refresher test for 2013 “500” winner and Arrow McLaren Team Principal Tony Kanaan, who is readying to be a standby driver for Kyle Larson on Race Day. Larson is attempting the “double” of racing in the Indy 500 and the NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 25. Kanaan will step in for Larson if weather delays the start in Indianapolis and Larson must leave for Charlotte for his full-time drive with Hendrick Motorsports.

The track will be open for practice for all cars from noon-6 p.m. (noon-4 p.m., FS2; 4-6 p.m., FS1; FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network).

The 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 25 (10 a.m. ET, FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network).

Overplay Joins Forces with Front Row Motorsports in New Partnership

User-generated Gaming Platform to Serve as Primary Partner of Todd Gilliland in Coca-Cola 600

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (May 13, 2025)- Todd Gilliland will sport a new look on his No. 34 Ford Mustang Dark Horse as Overplay joins forces with Front Row Motorsports (FRM) in a new partnership for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.

Overplay— the world’s first user-generated gaming platform where anyone can make games from videos—will team up with FRM and Gilliland at the Charlotte Motor Speedway for the Coca-Cola 600, a crown jewel event for stock car racing’s premier division.

Founded by seasoned interactive media executives Dan Projansky and Caroline Strzalka, Overplay aims to democratize game development and make it accessible to everyone. By downloading the Overplay app users can gamify their lives instantly! The platform already has hundreds of thousands of downloads and millions of games played. Overplay was also featured in Season 15 of Shark Tank where the company struck a deal with billionaire investor Mark Cuban.

“With our partnership with Todd Gilliland, we’re celebrating a number of firsts: the first time our Overplay logo is on a NASCAR Cup Series car, and the first time that race car drivers can make games for their fans using Overplay’s technology,” said Dan Projansky, Co-Founder and CEO of Overplay. “It’s a dream come true to see Overplay’s brand and gaming capabilities come to life through our partnership with Front Row Motorsports. What does it feel like to play games featuring Todd? Scan the QR code on his car and find out!”

Fans can also play all of Todd Gilliland’s games for FREE at https://overplay.com/NASCAR/toddgilliland.

“I’m really excited to welcome Overplay to the No. 34 team this season,” said Gilliland. “What they’re doing—giving everyday users the tools to create and share their own games from short videos—is something totally unique and forward-thinking. It’s awesome to be partnered with a brand that’s pushing the boundaries of creativity and accessibility in gaming. I can’t wait to represent them on and off the track.”

Fans can watch the No. 34 Overplay Ford Mustang take on the Coca-Cola 600, May 25th at 6:00 PM ET on Amazon Prime. Fans can also listen in from the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM channel 90.

ABOUT OVERPLAY

Overplay is a user-generated gaming platform that gives users the ability to create their own games from short videos and share them with the world instantly. Founded by seasoned interactive media executives Dan Projansky and Caroline Strzalka, Overplay aims to democratize game development and make it accessible to everyone. The platform has generated over 2 million games played and well over 300,000 app downloads. Overplay is backed by venture capitalists N29 Capital Partners, Village Global, Gaingels, Sound Media Ventures, Plus Eight Equity Partners, Red & Blue Ventures, Band of Angels, Stampede Ventures, Outlander Capital, Singularity Capital, Everyrealm, Adobe Fund for Design, as well as angels from Warner Brothers and Riot Games. For more information, please visit overplay.com.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 34 and No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series teams from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @teamfrm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Spire Motorsports NASCAR All-Star Race Advance

  • The 2025 NASCAR All-Star Open will mark Spire Motorsports’ 13th attempt to qualify for the NASCAR All-Star Race. Corey LaJoie posted the team’s best finish in the NASCAR All-Star Open when he raced to a fourth-place finish in the 2022 edition at Texas Motor Speedway. Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet ZL1s in the Cup Series for Justin Haley, Michael McDowell and Carson Hocevar, respectively.
  • Spire Motorsports’ only appearance in the NASCAR All-Star Race came in 2020 when Haley qualified via his win in the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. The top-two finishers in Sunday afternoon’s All-Star Open will transfer into the main event, in addition to the winner of the All-Star Fan Vote.
  • Coverage from North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway will begin with the NASCAR All-Star Open at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The NASCAR All-Star Race will follow “The Open” at 8 p.m. EDT. Both races will be televised live on FS1. The all-star weekend festivities will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Justin Haley – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet ZL1

  • Justin Haley will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Gainbridge Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR All-Star Open at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • Sunday’s NASCAR All-Star Open will mark Haley’s fifth attempt to race his way into NASCAR’s annual All-Star Race. His best finish came in 2022 when the event was held at Texas Motor Speedway where he finished third. The 26-year-old scored a fourth-place finish in last year’s All-Star Open and came home 14th when the event made its 2023 debut at the famed Wilkes County (N.C.) speedway.
  • Haley has one start in the NASCAR All Star Race after earning a spot in 2020 via his win in the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway. That summer’s annual visit to “The World Center of Racing” also marks Spire Motorsports’ lone win in NASCAR’s premiere division. Haley went on to finish 14th when the series contested the event on a Wednesday night at Bristol Motor Speedway.
  • Founded in 2018, Gainbridge® is an insurtech subsidiary of Group 1001 that empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone, no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Its platform provides access to financial products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge® is headquartered in Zionsville, Ind. For more information, visit www.gainbridge.io or follow and connect with us on X and LinkedIn.
  • Last week at Kansas Speedway Haley was involved in a multi-car incident late in the race but soldiered home for a 31st-place result.
  • Over the course of his career, Haley has collected four NASCAR Xfinity Series checkered flags and three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series wins, making him one of just 41 drivers in history to have earned wins across all three of NASCAR’s National Touring Series.
  • He made his first start in NASCAR’s premier division for Spire Motorsports at Talladega Superspeedway on April 28, 2019 – his 20th birthday. Over the course of the last seven seasons, the 26-year-old racer has notched one win, five top fives, 17 top 10s and 103 laps led.
  • In total, Haley has made 53 Cup Series starts for Spire Motorsports, with the bulk of races coming during the 2021 season behind the wheel of the team’s No. 77 machine. In his second appearance amidst his return to Spire Motorsports at Talladega last October, Haley earned a seventh-place result, his first top 10 with the team since the 2021 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona.

Justin Haley Quotes
You are an open entry this weekend, how do you feel about making it into the All-Star race?
“I’m excited to race North Wilkesboro this weekend with the 7 team. We’ve found a lot of speed recently and hopefully we can put it in the big show this weekend.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Ryan Sparks

  • Ryan Sparks serves in a dual role as both Spire Motorsports Competition Director and crew chief for driver Justin Haley and was first paired with Haley at Bristol Motor Speedway in September 2024.
  • The Winston Salem, N.C., native has called 177 NASCAR Cup Series races where he’s earned three top-five and nine top-10 finishes.
  • In total, Sparks has called five NASCAR All-Star Opens since 2020-present, and earned an event-best fourth-place result with Corey LaJoie during the 2022 edition at Texas Motor Speedway.

Michael McDowell – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet ZL1

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Delaware Life Chevrolet ZL1 in this weekend’s NASCAR All-Star Open, aiming to race his into Sunday’s 250-lap main event or be voted in via the All-Star Fan Vote.
  • Last week it was announced that McDowell was ranked inside the top 10 in All-Star Fan Vote standings and joins Spire Motorsports’ stablemate Carson Hocevar as a contender for an opportunity to transfer into the main event.
  • With a $1 million payday on the line, McDowell hopes to improve on his season-best short track finish of 12th at Martinsville Speedway. The Cup Series veteran returns to the historic .625-mile oval with a confidence boost, having recorded two top-10 starts and a venue best finish of ninth in last year’s event at the historic Wilkes County track.
  • Delaware Life is an insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings LLC, Delaware Life focuses on delivering a seamless experience for advisors. The company understands how important it is to find the right fit for every client, every situation and every individual need. Delaware Life is passionate about equipping advisors with annuities that give their customers peace of mind and a successful future, allowing them to plan with confidence for whatever’s next.
  • Across the first 12 races of the 2025 season, the Glendale, Ariz., native has an average starting position of 13.9, including four starts inside the top 10.
  • The No. 71 Chevrolet will return to its teal-and-blue Delaware Life livery for this weekend’s All-Star Open and pit crew challenge.
  • McDowell has claimed three Xfinity Fastest Lap awards this season, clocking the fastest lap in the Daytona 500, at Phoenix Raceway, and again at Talladega Superspeedway. He stands as the only driver in the Cup Series to have secured three bonus points via the program.
  • McDowell secured Spire Motorsports’ first Busch Light Pole Award at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March. His 28.833-second lap marks the fastest lap in NASCAR’s seventh-generation Cup Series car (2022-present) at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval.
  • Spire Motorsports will host a small media event on Thursday, May 15 to unveil this year’s Coca-Cola 600 scheme. Media members interested in attending should contact, jpayne@spire-motorsports.com to RSVP.

Michael McDowell Quote:
Does the All-Star Race take some of the pressure off from a normal race weekend?
“It’s fun to have a couple of weeks at home and have more shop friends, family and crew members there. As far as it being a pressure-free weekend—it’s not. It really isn’t, because you want to win. You want to make it into the All-Star Race.

“We were a few laps away from not having to think about the Open race in Texas, but North Wilkesboro is a fun weekend. It’s a cool racetrack. It feels like a little time capsule, and you get back to some of the grassroots that we have. The scoreboard there, the walls, the fans – it’s just fun. It’s a cool place, and we look forward to the weekend.”

Talk about the importance of qualifying well at short tracks.
“You’re racing for the top two spots, so every lap counts and everything matters. We saw that. We were close to racing our way in a couple of years ago. Just like every weekend, you have to qualify well, and you’ve got to have a good car because everybody’s so close. It’s an elbows-out kind of grind for sure. You always have the fan vote to fall back on, but I’ve never put a lot of emphasis on that. I did when I drove the No. 95. They did a little campaign because they wanted to have some fun. I love my fans. I have great fans. Obviously, I’ve been doing this a long time, and I’m super appreciative. But I’m also that guy who would just rather earn it on merit, so we’ll see what happens this weekend.”

Atop the No. 71 Box – Crew Chief Travis Peterson

  • Crew chief Travis Peterson celebrated his 34th birthday last weekend at Kansas Speedway and led the Spire Motorsports contingency with an 11th-place qualifying effort.
  • The University of North Carolina at Charlotte graduate led McDowell to a ninth-place finish in last season’s NASCAR All Star Race.

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

  • Spire Motorsports driver Carson Hocevar will pilot the No. 77 Indy25 Chevrolet ZL1 in his second All-Star Open appearance. The Portage, Mich., native started and finished 10th in the 2024 All-Star Open, coming up short in his bid to advance to the feature event.
  • Spire Motorsports and Gainbridge® have partnered with the WNBA All-Star 2025 Host Committee to feature the “Indy25” logo in recognition of AT&T WNBA All-Star 2025 taking place in Indianapolis. Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Fever, will be the site of the 21st edition of the WNBA All-Star Game, as well as the WNBA STARRY 3-Point Contest and WNBA Skills Challenge July 18-19.
  • Last Saturday at Kansas Speedway, Hocevar drove the No. 7 Delaware Life Chevrolet Silverado RST to victory in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. It was his first victory in two starts this season and fifth overall. Hocevar started 22nd in the No. 77 Delaware Life Chevy in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race, led laps in the second stage and was tracking a top-10 finish before a flat tire forced the team to pit with less than 20 laps remaining.
  • The 2024 Rookie of the Year earned top-20 finishes in the two points-paying races held so far on tracks less than a mile. He also had a strong showing in the Clash at Bowman-Gray Stadium.
  • Hocevar is currently in the top-five in the All-Star Fan Vote, just three days before the Cup Series drivers take to the track for practice and qualifying at the famed North Wilkesboro Speedway.

Carson Hocevar Quotes
North Wilkesboro has hosted racing since before the sports’ inception. What does it mean to you to have the chance to compete on such hallowed grounds?
“Any time we can go to tracks that have a long history in the sport, it means a lot. North Wilkesboro was no longer on the schedule when I was younger, but I love racing and I’ve seen the old footage of the races there. It’s a place that is so important to the history of stock car racing and to see it brought back to life, and hosting the Cup Series, is really cool. I’m thankful that it’s something I get to be part of.”

Last year you put in a lot of effort to garner fan votes to advance to the All-Star Race, but this year you’ve been a bit quieter. Does that change in approach reflect the confidence you have in yourself to advance on track?
“I think so. I was a rookie last year, I didn’t have a lot of experience and I knew going in how tough guys race when there’s money on the line. I leaned on my personality a lot, but I feel like people know who I am now. We’ve had some really good runs and we get better each week. The No. 77 team has shown a lot of improvement on the short tracks and I think we learned a lot last year that will help us this time around.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Luke Lambert

  • In 2023, crew chief Luke Lambert led Noah Gragson to a seventh-place finish in the All-Star Open at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Gragson earned the Fan Vote to advance to his first All-Star Race.
  • In 68 points-paying races contended on short tracks, Lambert has led his drivers to four top-five and 18 top-10 finishes, with 58 laps led.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 10, 2025, when Carson Hocevar took the checkered flag in the Heart of Health Care 200 at Kansas Speedway.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team also fields the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and the No. 77 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series in select events.

TOP FUEL’S BRITTANY FORCE READY FOR REDEMPTION AT GERBER COLLISION & GLASS ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS

CHICAGO (May 13, 2025) – In the midst of a strong late-season run a year ago and then a record-breaking run in Charlotte less than a month ago, one race that has been on Brittany Force’s mind is this weekend’s 25th annual Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK at Route 66 Raceway.

Last year’s Chicago race didn’t go as planned for the two-time world champion, as Force failed to qualify for the first time in 187 races (Pomona 2, 2014). It was a discouraging moment for Force and her talented team, but the turnaround to end the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season was encouraging.

Force won in Las Vegas, finished a solid fifth in points and had five No. 1 qualifiers over the final seven races. She’s since followed that up with a historic 341.59-mph record-breaking blast in Charlotte last month, giving her and the team added confidence as they seek redemption at Route 66 Raceway this weekend in their 11,000-horsepower Monster Energy dragster.

“I’m eager to get to Chicago and back with my crew chief David Grubnic and our Monster Energy team,” Force said. “After a DNQ in Chicago last season, this entire team feels the need to redeem ourselves and make up for our mistakes a year ago. Coming off a new (Top Fuel) national speed record in Charlotte, we feel our overall performance has significantly improved since last season and we are in a much better place to qualify well and have a shot at a Chicago win.”

In 2024, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all secured victories. This year’s race, which is the sixth of 20 during the 2025 season, will again be broadcast on FS1, with final elimination coverage on Sunday beginning at 2 p.m. ET.

It’s a loaded weekend at Route 66 Raceway with four rounds of qualifying (two each on Friday and Saturday), the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday and eliminations on Sunday at the special 25th anniversary event. That makes it a perfect time for Force, who is currently sixth in points, to pick up her first victory of the year and also her first career win at Route 66 Raceway.

Doing so will be challenging, as a loaded Top Fuel field awaits. Shawn Langdon currently leads the points on the strength of two wins, while racing legend Tony Stewart is second. Defending event winner and reigning world champ Brown is third, while others to watch include Clay Millican, Josh Hart, Doug Kalitta and Justin Ashley.

Force, though, likes the direction of her team, showcased in Charlotte by the incredible run where she became the first Top Fuel driver to go 340 mph.

“Overall, we need to work on consistency, but I know we’ll get this thing figured out soon,” Force said after the Charlotte race. “(The record) is just something really exciting for every single one of these guys. They work so hard. To be able to accomplish that together and hold on to that, I hope we hold it for a long time. It’s pretty special.”

Matt Hagan, a four-time Funny Car world champion, won three races in 2024, including in Chicago. He’s currently third in points, while John Force Racing’s Austin Prock, the reigning world champ, is the points leader. The star-studded category also includes Paul Lee, Jack Beckman, Bob Tasca III, Ron Capps and Chad Green.

Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Matt Smith took over the points lead following his Charlotte win. Reigning champ Gaige Herrera won the season opener in Gainesville race and others to watch include Chase Van Sant, Angie Smith, Steve Johnson and Jianna Evaristo.

The race will also feature competition in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown division, Holley EFI NHRA Factory X and the Pingel NHRA Top Fuel Motorcycle Series.

Fans will be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits. The stage hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, autograph sessions and much more. Race fans in Chicago can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. Fans are also invited to congratulate the event winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday.

As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will feature two rounds of qualifying at 1:30 and 4 p.m. CT on Friday, May 16, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 17 at 12 and 2:30 p.m. CT. Eliminations will begin at 10:30 a.m. CT on Sunday, May 18. Television coverage includes qualifying action at 9:30 p.m. ET on Friday and Sunday at 11 a.m. before eliminations coverage at 2 p.m. ET.

To purchase tickets to the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK Performance on May 16-18 at Route 66 Raceway, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, including the full 2024 schedule, 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.

Legendary Track Honors Legendary Team; Wood Brothers Racing to Serve as Dignitaries for NASCAR All-Star Race

The Wood family — (left to right) Keven Wood, Jordan (Wood) Hicks, Jon Wood, Kim Wood Hall, Len Wood and Eddie Wood — will help kick off the All-Star Race on Sunday, May 18, in celebration of Wood Brothers Racing’s 75th year. (Contributed photo)
  • North Wilkesboro Speedway will honor Wood Brothers Racing during the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race, celebrating the team’s 75th year.
  • Two generations of the Wood family will participate in race-day ceremonies, with Len Wood serving as honorary starter, Eddie Wood as honorary pace car driver and Jon Wood delivering the command to start engines alongside former Wood Brothers Racing driver Michael Waltrip.
  • Josh Berry, current driver of the legendary No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford, will drive a special throwback paint scheme honoring Michael Waltrip’s 1996 All-Star Race win. The 1996 win at Charlotte Motor Speedway is the only Wood Brothers Racing victory in the 40-year history of the All-Star Race.
  • 1995 NASCAR CRAFSTMAN Truck Series Champion Mike Skinner will serve as Grand Marshal for Saturday’s Window World 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway, returning to the spotlight nearly 30 years after capturing the inaugural series title

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (May 13, 2025) – As Wood Brothers Racing celebrates their 75th year in 2025, North Wilkesboro Speedway will honor the team with dignitary roles for the NASCAR All-Star Race on May 18. Founded in 1950 by brothers Glenn and Leonard Wood, the oldest active NASCAR team has participated in races at the historic facility since 1957, shortly after the track was paved for the first time.

Wood Brothers Racing remains a family-run organization, with Glenn’s sons Eddie and Len Wood serving as chief executive officer and chief operating officer, respectively. Their sister, Kim Wood, is the team’s chief financial officer. Eddie’s children, Jon and Jordan, work alongside them as team president and chief marketing officer.

Len will serve as the honorary starter for the NASCAR All-Star Race, while Eddie will be the honorary pace car driver in a Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Team President Jon Wood and former All-Star Race winner and NASCAR on FOX analyst Michael Waltrip will give the command to start engines as Grand Marshals for the main event.

“North Wilkesboro holds a special place in the history of our team and the sport, and it’s one of those tracks where NASCAR’s roots run deep,” said Jon Wood, “My family has been fortunate to be part of some incredible moments there over the years. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, it means a great deal to be recognized at a place that helped shape the sport and our team into what it is today.”

During the race, Josh Berry will pilot the No. 21 with a special throwback paint scheme to Michael Waltrip’s 1996 All-Star Race win at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

A Star-Studded Team in NASCAR’s All-Star Event

The Wood Brothers have been part of the NASCAR All-Star event since its second running, making their first appearance with Kyle Petty in 1986. They would later make appearances in the exhibition event with some of NASCAR’s most notable names, including Neil Bonnett, Morgan Shepherd, Michael Waltrip, Elliott Sadler, Ricky Rudd, Trevor Bayne, Ryan Blaney and Matt DiBenedetto.

In 1996, Waltrip picked up an unlikely win in the All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, his first victory at the Cup level. He transferred from the Open after finishing fifth and then led the final nine laps to take the victory over Rusty Wallace and Dale Earnhardt, after executing a three-wide pass to take the lead. He was the first driver to transfer from the Open and win the race.

More recently, in 2017, driving for the historic team, Ryan Blaney won the first segment of the Open and transferred to the All-Star Race. In 2020, DiBenedetto won the Open and transferred to the main event, and in 2021, he won the fan vote in the team’s most recent All-Star Race appearance.

A Historic Team at a Legendary Race Track

Between 1957 and 1996, Wood Brothers Racing recorded 46 starts, two wins, 14 top-five finishes and 23 top-10 finishes at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Team founder Glenn Wood won two poles at the venue in 1958 and 1959. Other legendary drivers competing for the Wood Brothers at North Wilkesboro Speedway included Marvin Panch, who recorded both team wins at the track in 1963 and 1964; Joe Weatherly; Curtis Turner; Tiny Lund; Cale Yarborough; Buddy Baker; Kyle Petty; Bonnett; Dale Jarrett; Shepherd; and Waltrip.

Since the revival of the venerable venue, Harrison Burton competed in the Open for the Wood Brothers in both 2023 and 2024. In 2025, Berry will pilot the famous No. 21 at North Wilkesboro Speedway for the All-Star Race, striving to create yet another unforgettable moment for the historic team at the legendary race track.

Legend Mike Skinner Returns as Window World 250 Grand Marshal

1995 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Champion Mike Skinner will serve as Grand Marshal for Saturday’s 200-lap Window World 250 as part of a jam-packed, star-studded weekend of racing at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Respected veteran and fan-favorite, Skinner is known for helping shape the Truck Series in its early years, racking up 28 wins and 50 poles while making nearly 300 starts across NASCAR’s top three divisions.

Nearly three decades after capturing the inaugural Truck Series championship, Skinner will return to the spotlight to deliver the most iconic words in motorsports.

“I’m proud to serve as the Grand Marshal for the upcoming Window World 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway,” said Skinner. “It’s an honor to be remembered and recognized for a series that I love so dearly, and it’s even more special to do it at a track as iconic as North Wilkesboro. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series has always been known for its great racing, and I’m certain they’ll put on another exciting show this weekend.”

The 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race will feature more on-track action than ever before. In addition to all the NASCAR Cup Series activity, fans can enjoy zMAX CARS Tour feature races both Thursday, with The Reverend Whiskey 75 (Pro Late Models) and Friday, with the Window World 100 (Late Model Stock Cars), nights, along with the Window World 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race and a Jake Owen concert presented by Raymer Oil on the frontstretch Saturday.

Sunday’s racing action begins with the FaithFest Evangelistic Ministries 150 NASCAR Whelen Modified Series race preceding the All-Star Open and All-Star Race.

TICKETS

May 16-18 NASCAR All-Star Race Week ticket packages — including seven races, the NASCAR Pit Crew Challenge presented by Mechanix Wear, Jake Owen concert and all NASCAR qualifying sessions — start at just $150. Race week packages or individual event day tickets and camping can be purchased online at www.NorthWilkesboroSpeedway.com.

MORE INFO:
Fans can connect with North Wilkesboro Speedway and get the latest news regarding NASCAR All-Star Week and North Wilkesboro Speedway by following on X and Instagram or by becoming a Facebook fan.

Niece Motorsports NCTS Race Advance: North Wilkesboro Speedway

NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE ADVANCE: NORTH WILKESBORO SPEEDWAY
Event: Window World 250 (250 laps / 156.25 miles)
Round: 10 of 25 (Regular Season)
Track: North Wilkesboro Speedway
Location: North Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Date & Time: Saturday, May 17 | 1:30 PM ET
Tune-In: FOX Sports 1 | NASCAR Racing Network (NRN) | SiriusXM Ch. 90

Team Stats & Notes

  • Niece Motorsports North Wilkesboro Stats: Niece drivers have made a combined total of six starts over the past two years at the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway. The organization has earned one top-five (fourth with Carson Hocevar in 2023) and two top-10 finishes here. In last year’s race, Ross Chastain was the highest finishing driver for the team in 15th-place.

No. 42 J.F. Electric / Utilitra Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Matt Mills | Crew Chief: Mike Shiplett

  • Mills’ North Wilkesboro Stats: Matt Mills has competed in one prior NCTS race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. In last year’s running of the 250-lap event, Mills finished in 18th-place.
  • Shiplett’s North Wilkesboro Stats: Mike Shiplett called one NCTS race at North Wilkesboro which came last season. Shiplett’s team finished 29th with Bret Holmes as his driver.
  • On the Truck: Mills’ No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from longtime partners J.F. Electric and Utilitra, who will serve as his anchor partners for the entire 25-race season.
  • Recapping Kansas: Mills began the 134-lap race in 18th, but suffered overheating issues which plagued the team throughout the first two stages. Despite being forced to make several unscheduled stops to rectify their issues, Mills and team stayed in the battle to make it into the top-15. Through pit strategy, the No. 42 gained track position late in the going which resulted in Mills earning his best finish of the season in 12th-place.
  • Points Rundown: After securing his season-best finish last week, Mills gained a spot in the points standings. Up to 18th (and currently tied for 17th with Dawson Sutton), Mills is only 13 points behind Jack Wood in 16th. He now has a 13-point cushion above Andres Perez De Lara in 19th-place.
  • Quoting Mills: Do you anticipate the groove to move around the track like last year, or will it be mainly around the bottom?

“Last year, I felt like the track was very temperature-sensitive. On the first day before it rained, we were ripping the top on both ends. But on the second day when we went back, we could only really move the lane up in (turn) one and two. It switched up on us, so it’s hard to really know what to expect going back into it this time. I was happy with the progress that we made on our truck towards the end of the race last year. Hopefully, we can use what we learned there to build off from as a good place to fire off with once we start practice.”

About J.F. Electric: J.F. Electric is an electrical contractor that provides engineering expertise, backed by construction and installation know-how in a diverse range of service offerings, from utilities and commercial projects, to industrial and telecommunications customers. When having a long family history in an industry, a company not only builds on its knowledge and experience, it takes pride in cultivating a solid understanding of client needs, all the while nurturing strong relationships with its employees. Evolving through five generations of the Fowler family, J.F. Electric has matured into a well-managed and thoughtfully diversified electrical contractor which is poised to continue its growth and expansion into the future.

About Utilitra: Utilitra is a woman-owned firm specializing in utility and technology solutions with a diverse team of specialized professionals. Utilitra is committed to solving their client’s unique challenges, whether one expert or a team of experts is needed. By adapting to the needs of their respective industries, Utilitra has built a range of services for their utility and technology partners.

No. 44 Niece Equipment Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Conner Jones | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers

  • Jones Joins the Team: 19-year-old Conner Jones has been signed on to drive Niece Motorsports’ No. 44 Chevrolet in select NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series events beginning this weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

Jones, a multi-time CARS Tour Late Model Stock race winner, has made 22 NCTS starts over the course of the past two seasons for ThorSport Racing.

In 2023, the Fredericksburg, Virginia native won the World Series of Asphalt Pro Late Model title at New Smyrna Speedway which ranks high among his list of racing accomplishments.

  • Jones’ North Wilkesboro Stats: Conner Jones has competed in two NCTS races at the 0.625-mile short track in North Wilkesboro, but experienced early exits in both starts. Jones finished 29th in 2023 due to electrical issues and finished 35th last year after getting involved in a crash.

Though he’s had tough sledding in both truck races here, Jones has shown speed in the late model ranks. Last year, he impressed by winning the CARS Tour Late Model Stock Series finale at the track. In three LMSC races, Jones finished inside the top-five twice. He also finished sixth in the CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series’ season finale here last year.

  • Rogers’ North Wilkesboro Stats: Wally Rogers has called one NCTS race at North Wilkesboro, which was during the series’ return in 2023. Working with Lawless Alan in that race, his team finished in 19th-place.
  • On the Truck: Jones’ No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Niece Equipment. The truck will sport a new, patriotic-themed paint scheme highlighting the team’s appreciation of the U.S. military.
  • Quadruple Duty: Jones has a busy schedule ahead of himself this weekend as he will compete in four different races on the property. Starting off on Thursday, he will drive his family-owned No. 44 car in the CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series. On Friday, he’ll race the No. 44 for Mike Darne Racing in the CARS Tour Late Model Stock division before focusing on Saturday’s NCTS race. Lastly on Sunday, he’ll race the No. 99 car in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series for Jamie Tomaino Racing.
  • Recapping Kansas: Bayley Currey and the No. 44 team ran inside the top-10 near the start of the race in Kansas, but left with a disappointing finish. Currey fought the handling on his truck during the day, but was able to find grip once the crew made adjustments in the race. Late in the going however, Currey lost control of his truck in turn two resulting in a crash. Though the team finished the race, they were mired back a few laps behind the leaders.
  • Owner Points Rundown: The No. 44 team dropped two positions in owner points following last Saturday’s 26th-place finish at Kansas. Heading into North Wilkesboro, the team is 17th in points, nine points behind TRICON Garage’s No. 15 entry in 16th and five ahead of ThorSport Racing’s No. 88 entry in 18th.
  • Quoting Jones: What are some of your thoughts on joining the No. 44 team this weekend?

“I’m very thankful to come on board with Niece Motorsports this year and be a part of everything they’ve got going on. My goals are pretty big here; I hope to run inside the top-10 at these tracks. I’ve struggled in the Truck Series in the past, and I’ve had some struggles, but I’ve worked through them. My main goal is to run well consistently and I think we can accomplish that. Having Wally (Rogers) in my corner to lean on, along with Kaden (Honeycutt) and Matt (Mills) for advice is definitely going to help.”

You’ve had success at North Wilkesboro before in a late model, so how do you transition that into running well in a truck?

“I think first of all, I need to be better on pit road than what I have been in the past. I need to get in and get out of there quicker. Track position is key in these races, so once I get that part nailed down it should help us out a lot. Other than that, I just need to stay focused all race long and keep the hunt going.”

About Niece Equipment: For over 30 years, Niece Equipment has provided clients with reliable products at competitive prices. Our reputation is built on service, integrity and dependability.

Each of our water and fuel/lube trucks are engineered with quality and durability in mind. Our capability ranges from 2,000 gallon water trucks to 12,000 gallon water towers. The fuel/lube trucks we offer range from 600 to 4,000 gallons.

No. 45 DQS Solutions & Staffing / Masked Owl Technologies Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Kaden Honeycutt | Crew Chief: Phil Gould

  • Honeycutt’s North Wilkesboro Stats: Though he didn’t compete in last year’s race, Kaden Honeycutt has made one NCTS start at North Wilkesboro. Honeycutt finished 17th in his lone series start in 2023, but has made plenty of laps around this track in the short track ranks.

Last year, Honeycutt won the CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series finale and in turn clinched the series championship. In four CARS Tour Late Model Stock Series starts here, Honeycutt earned one top-five and three top-10 finishes.

  • Gould’s North Wilkesboro Stats: Phil Gould has called two NCTS races at North Wilkesboro. In 2023, Gould’s team finished in fourth-place with Carson Hocevar. Last year, his truck finished in 15th with Ross Chastain at the wheel.
  • On the Truck: Honeycutt’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from DQS Solutions & Staffing and Masked Owl Technologies, who will serve as his anchor partners for the majority of the season.
  • Triple Duty: Honeycutt will compete in three of the five races planned for this weekend at North Wilkesboro. In addition to his NCTS duties, Honeycutt looks to defend his CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series victory on Thursday night driving the No. 47 Chevrolet for Bryson Lopez Racing. On Friday, he’ll move onto the CARS Tour Late Model Stock Series as he take the reins of the No. 71 Chevrolet for Hettinger Racing.
  • Recapping Kansas: Kaden Honeycutt qualified the highest out of the team in seventh-place. The No. 45 was a contender through the opening two stages, picking up a total of seven points. When a caution came out during the green flag pit cycle, however, the team was trapped one lap down, forced to take the wave-around. Stuck in traffic, Honeycutt struggled to maintain the speed which he had up front. Luckily, the team rebounded nicely for a eighth-place finish.
  • Points Rundown: By virtue of picking up his fifth top-10 finish in nine races last Saturday, Honeycutt gained a spot in the championship points standings. Moving up to eighth-place overall, Honeycutt is scored 19 points behind Jake Garcia in seventh, and now has an eight-point gap over Layne Riggs in ninth.
  • Quoting Honeycutt: How different is it to race here in a truck compared to the late models?

“I think the truck race is more dependent on handling for sure. I think it will be a slower pace too. I know that sounds crazy, but with how light the late models are, you’re getting around there very fast and things happen quickly. Truck racing, things are a little bit slower and you’re able to make more decisions clearly. So because of that, I think that running those races will be helpful because I can make those decisions quicker. I think we’ll have a good truck to bring here this weekend compared to how we were in Martinsville. I think we’ll have another good shot at bringing home a win.”

About DQS Solutions & Staffing: Guided by a mission to achieve excellence and adaptability, DQS partners with clients to create custom solutions that address unique business challenges. Recognized as Michigan’s fastest-growing company and #22 in the nation on the Inc. 5000 list, DQS drives industry growth while giving back through its nonprofit, Foundation for Pops, and partnerships like the River Rouge School District.

About Masked Owl Technologies: Masked Owl Technologies (MOT) is an industrial solutions integrator specializing in developing customized automation and controls processes. They take a consulting-based approach to identify the root cause of system challenges and incorporate tested, emerging technology into industrial solutions that mitigate risk and solve complex problems, the first time.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2025, the team celebrates its 10th consecutive season competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) where it fields the Nos. 41, 42, 44 and 45. Since its founding in 2016, Niece Motorsports has garnered nine wins, 50+ top-fives, 100+ top-10s, 200+ top-15 finishes and made five playoff appearances. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a trusted build shop for the Chevrolet Silverados of multiple NCTS teams as well as a customizable fabrication shop for any manufacturing needs.

Follow the Team: To keep up to date with the latest team news, visit niecemotorsports.com or connect on Facebook and Instagram (@NieceMotorsports) as well as X (@NieceMotorsport).

Schedule and Format for All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro

Photo by Andrew Boyd for SpeedwayMedia.com

The NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Race headlines the racing action Sunday night at North Wilkesboro Speedway this weekend. Joey Logano dominated the race last year, leading all but one lap, and winning the $1 million prize.

The Whelen Modified Tour will warm up the crowd preceding the All-Star Race in the FaithFest Evangelistic Ministries 150.

Fans can also look forward to the popular NASCAR Pit Crew Challenge presented by Mechanix Wear on Friday night. The winning crew chief is awarded a signature jack and air gun pit crew trophy, a $100,000 prize, and earns prime starting positions for both the Open and the heat races in the NASCAR All-Star Race.

Saturday afternoon, the Craftsman Truck Series will be on track for the Window World 250, while the Xfinity Series takes a week off from competition.

Race Format

The All-Star Open is a 100-lap qualifying race for drivers not already eligible for Sunday’s All-Star Race. There will be a competition break at or near Lap 50.

Only three drivers will advance — the top two finishers in the Open and the top driver in the fan vote.

This year’s All-Star Race will include a competition break that will occur at or near the 100-lap mark. There is also an optional promoter’s caution that could come into play. The promoter’s caution has to occur before Lap 220, but it can’t be used if there is a race caution after Lap 200.

Drivers eligible for the NASCAR All-Star Race include:
Drivers who have won a points-paying race in 2024 or 2025
Past NASCAR All-Star Race winners who are competing full-time
Former NASCAR Cup Series champions who are competing full-time

Eligible Drivers

  • Christopher Bell
  • Josh Berry
  • Ryan Blaney
  • Alex Bowman
  • Chase Briscoe
  • Chris Buescher
  • Harrison Burton
  • Kyle Busch
  • William Byron
  • Ross Chastain
  • Austin Cindric
  • Austin Dillon
  • Chase Elliott
  • Denny Hamlin
  • Brad Keselowski
  • Kyle Larson
  • Joey Logano
  • Tyler Reddick
  • Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
  • Daniel Suárez

All times are Eastern.

Friday, May 16 Schedule

4 p.m: Pit Road Qualifying Entry/Exit Practice (Open Entries)
FS2/MRN/SiriusXM
4:30 p.m.: Pit Road Qualifying Entry/Exit Practice (All All-Star Entries)
FS2/MRN/SiriusXM

5 p.m.: Practice (Open and All-Star entries) FS2/MRN/SiriusXM
6 p.m.: Qualifying/All-Star Pit Crew Challenge (Open)
FS1/MRN/SiriusXM

7 p.m.: Qualifying/All-Star Pit Crew Challenge (All-Star) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Post Qualifying: NASCAR Press Pass

Saturday, May 17 Schedule

9:35 a.m.: Truck Series Practice/2 Groups/25 minutes each/FS2
10:35 a.m.: Truck Series Qualifying/All Entries/Single Vehicle/2 Laps – FS2 1:30 p.m.: Truck Series Window World 250
Stages end on laps 70/140/250 = 156.25 miles
FS1/SiriusXM Purse: $782,900 Post Truck Series Race: NASCAR Press Pass

5:10 p.m.: All-Star Race Heat No. 1
75 Laps/46.875 Miles
FS2/MRN/SiriusXM

6:15 p.m.: All-Star Race Heat No. 2
75 Laps/46.875 Miles
FS2/MRN/SiriusXM
Post Heat Races: NASCAR Press Pass

Sunday, May 18 Schedule

10:15 a.m.: Whelen Modified Tour Practice 1 – 25 minutes
10:55 a.m.: Whelen Modified Tour Practice 2 – 25 minutes
12:45 p.m.: Whelen Modified Tour Qualifying – All Entries
2 p.m.: Whelen FaithFest Evangelistic Ministries 150
150 Laps/93.75 Miles – FloRacing

5 p.m.: Cup Series All-Star Open
100 Laps/62.5 miles – FS1/MRN/SiriusXM Purse: $581,100

8 p.m.: Cup Series All-Star Race
250 Laps/156.25 Miles – FS1/Max/ MRN/SiriusXM Purse: $2,421,400
Post All-Star Race: NASCAR Press Pass

Coca-Cola 600 Marks Major Milestones For Veterans, Newcomer

29 May 2005: Coca-Cola 600 Nextel Cup series race at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, NC. (HHP/Harold Hinson)
  • The 66th running of the Coca-Cola 600 will shine a spotlight on three generations of talent, as Jimmie Johnson celebrates his 700th start, Daniel Suárez hits 300 and 19-year-old Connor Zilisch makes his Cup Series oval debut
  • Coca-Cola 600 weekend tickets can be purchased online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 12 and under get in all weekend for just $10

CONCORD, N.C. (May 13, 2025) – The 66th running of the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 25, will offer more than just thrilling edge-of-your-seat racing and patriotic pageantry. This year’s crown jewel event at Charlotte Motor Speedway will serve as a backdrop for three major milestones that span generations of talent in the NASCAR Cup Series garage.

JIMMIE JOHNSON RETURNS

Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson is set to make his 700th career start, returning to the site of some of his most iconic moments. A four-time Coca-Cola 600 winner (2003, 2004, 2005, 2014), four-time Bank of America 500 champion (2004, 2005, 2009, 2016) and four-time Charlotte NASCAR All-Star race victor (2003, 2006, 2012, 2013), Johnson’s success has firmly established his place among the sport’s all-time greats.

This milestone will also mark Johnson’s first Coca-Cola 600 appearance in five years, adding extra significance to an already historic weekend. After opening his two-race 2025 campaign with a third-place finish in February’s Daytona 500, Johnson will once again pilot the No. 83 Toyota for Legacy Motor Club.

SUAREZ SET FOR START NO. 300

Daniel Suárez, driver of the No. 99 machine for Trackhouse Racing and proud member of the Coca-Cola Racing Family, will notch his 300th Cup Series start on Sunday. Since entering the Cup Series scene in 2017, Suárez has become a trailblazer in the sport, becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win a Cup Series race with his 2022 victory at Sonoma Raceway. Continuing to break barriers, Suárez has served as a symbol of perseverance and passion throughout NASCAR. In eight previous Coca-Cola 600 starts, Suárez’s best finish was 11th (2017).

ZILISCH MAKES CUP SERIES OVAL DEBUT

At just 18 years old, Trackhouse Racing driver Connor Zilisch will not only become the youngest driver in history to compete in the Coca-Cola 600, but will also highlight his NASCAR Cup Series oval debut at the Coca-Cola 600. Known for his composure behind the wheel and standout performances on various road courses, Zilisch will strap into the No. 88 machine to take on the demanding 1.5-mile oval. His only previous Cup Series start came earlier this season at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, where he crashed early and finished 37th.

Already generating buzz across the industry, Zilisch’s performance will be one to watch as he vies to make history as the first driver since Matt Kenseth in 2000 to win in his Coca-Cola 600 debut.

With so much on the line and so many remarkable moments in the making, the Coca-Cola 600 will undoubtedly be a race to remember. From rookies to veterans, history will be written as drivers look to etch their name in Coca-Cola 600 lore.

TICKETS:

Fans can purchase Coca-Cola 600 weekend tickets online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 12 and under get in all weekend for just $10.

MORE INFO:

Fans can connect with Charlotte Motor Speedway and get the latest news by following on X and Instagram, or becoming a Facebook fan. Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.

Ford Going For Consecutive All-Star Victories This Weekend

NORTH WILKESBORO

Saturday, May 17 — NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, 1:30 p.m. ET (FS1)
Sunday, May 18 — NASCAR Cup Series, 8 p.m. ET (FS1)

This will mark the third straight year North Wilkesboro Speedway hosts the NASCAR All-Star Race, along with a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event. Ford is the defending winner of the annual non-points race after Joey Logano led all but one lap in last year’s event. The Blue Oval has won the event 14 times overall, including two of the last three seasons after Ryan Blaney won in 2022 at Texas Motor Speedway.

HIGHWAY PATROL ON DUTY

The Mustang Dark Horse will be pacing this weekend’s races at North Wilkesboro Speedway, but on Sunday night it will be joined briefly by a family member. That’s because the North Carolina State Highway Patrol is scheduled to showcase one of its 25 new Mustang GTs during the initial parade lap. This marks the 75th year Ford, which is the top selling vehicle brand in the law enforcement segment, has been serving police customers.

BACK-TO-BACK

Last season, Joey Logano dominated the NASCAR All-Star Race like nobody ever had, leading all but one of the 200 laps and winning the $1 million bonus for the second time in his career. Logano won the pole, thanks in part to his pit crew that put together a solid stop in a modified qualifying format, and never looked back once the green flag fell. He bolted to the lead on the softer tire compound that Goodyear made available, in addition to the regular tires usually used on race weekends, and controlled the race until the checkered flag.

FORD’S ALL-STAR LINEUP

There are seven Ford drivers guaranteed a place in the All-Star field with additional spots available through the preliminary Open qualifying race and fan vote. Currently, defending series champion Joey Logano is joined by Team Penske teammates Ryan Blaney and Austin Cindric while the RFK duo of Brad Keselowski and Chris Buescher are also included. Josh Berry rounds out the field after winning earlier this year at Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the Wood Brothers while Harrison Burton will drive the No. 51 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Rick Ware Racing.

MULTIPLE ALL-STAR WINNERS

Logano’s win a year ago put him in a select group of Ford drivers who have won the NASCAR All-Star Race more than once. The only others are Davey Allison and Mark Martin. Allison was the first to win the non-points exhibition in back-to-back years (1991-92) and then Jimmie Johnson joined him (2012-13). Martin’s victories came in 1998 and 2005 driving the No. 6 Ford for car owner Jack Roush. Logano could become the fifth person to win the event more than two times if he finds Victory Lane on Sunday.

RYAN BLANEY: WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE ALL-STAR FORMAT? “I like it. I like how you keep pit crews involved by doing the competition there. I think those guys really enjoy it. They compete every weekend multiple times, but being on that stage is really good for them. I was saying that there are gonna be a lot of gifts sent to Marcus (Smith) and his family since they announced that (promoter’s caution). He’s gonna have more friends than he’s ever had, that’s for sure. It is what it is. We race to the format, and I think it’s obviously big for us to go back to Wilkesboro. People in that area really love us being back there. I love being back there.”

CHRIS BUESCHER: WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE ALL-STAR FORMAT? “I think about the format we have, knowing we’re gonna have a caution in there at some point that we won’t be able to predict isn’t much different than stages. We know we’re gonna have cautions at some point. We know exactly when they are for all of our other races, but I don’t think it’s ultimately going to change a whole lot just given the tires, new asphalt and what the race looked like last year. The groove did move around a lot, which I was pretty stoked about because we don’t typically get that with new asphalt, so that was solid.”

ELLIOTT WINS ALL-STAR RACE IN FRONT OF HOMETOWN FANS

The first time Ford won the All-Star Race was in 1986 when Bill Elliott drove his Thunderbird to Victory Lane, but that race is remembered for another trivial fact as well. That marked the only time, prior to this year, that the event has been run at a track other than Charlotte Motor Speedway. Elliott’s home track of Atlanta Motor Speedway served as host on Mother’s Day that year, a date NASCAR traditionally does not race. With only 10 cars making up the field, Elliott darted to the lead from his outside front row starting position and never gave it up as he led all 83 laps en route to a popular victory with the fans.

WALTRIP-WOOD FIRST-TIME WINNERS

Michael Waltrip’s win in 1996 marked his first victory in NASCAR’s top division and was the first in the event for Wood Brothers Racing. Waltrip almost didn’t get into the big show because he had to battle it out in the preliminary Winston Open, where he grabbed the final transfer spot by holding off Johnny Benson to finish fifth. That meant he started last in the 20-car main event, which was called the Winston Select. After the first two 30-lap segments had been completed, Waltrip found himself fourth for the final 10-lap shootout. He passed Rusty Wallace for third after an aborted restart, and then was riding behind Dale Earnhardt and Terry Labonte, who were battling side-by-side. As the two entered turn one with eight laps to go, they made contact which slowed them down enough to allow Waltrip to dart to the inside and pass both of them for the lead. He held on the rest of the way to post his first win of any kind in NASCAR’s top division.

LOGANO AND KESELOWSKI FINISH 1-2

Joey Logano and Brad Keselowski made All-Star history as they became the first teammates to sweep the top two spots in the All-Star Race when they did it in 2016. Logano came out on top of a side-by-side battle with Kyle Larson in the final two laps, getting clear with just over one lap to go after Larson hit the outside wall coming off turn two. That enabled Keselowski to get the runner-up spot and successfully commemorate the 50th Anniversary of car owner Roger Penske’s career in motorsports. It marked Ford’s 11th All-Star Race win and first in five years since Edwards won in 2011.

GARCIA GOING STRONG

Jake Garcia has captured two of the last three NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series poles going into this weekend’s race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. After earning the first pole of his career at Rockingham Speedway three weeks ago, he took the top spot again at Kansas and ended up as the top running Ford in seventh. Garcia, who is seventh in the series point standings, has ended up seventh or better in five of the last six events with his best result being a runner-up finish at Rockingham. A year ago at North Wilkesboro, he led the first laps of his NASCAR career, 40 total, and was in front with under 100 to go before a tire issue developed and forced him to nurse his F-150 home in 21st place.

FORD NASCAR CUP SERIES

ALL-STAR RACE WINNERS

1986 – Bill Elliott (Atlanta)

1991 – Davey Allison (Charlotte)

1992 – Davey Allison (Charlotte)

1994 – Geoffrey Bodine (Charlotte)

1996 – Michael Waltrip (Charlotte)

1998 – Mark Martin (Charlotte)

2002 – Ryan Newman (Charlotte)

2004 – Matt Kenseth (Charlotte)

2005 – Mark Martin (Charlotte)

2011 – Carl Edwards (Charlotte)

2016 – Joey Logano (Charlotte)

2018 – Kevin Harvick (Charlotte)

2022 – Ryan Blaney (Texas)

2024 – Joey Logano (North Wilkesboro)

FORD’S NASCAR CUP SERIES WINNERS

AT NORTH WILKESBORO

1955 – Buck Baker (2)

1957 – Fireball Roberts (1)

1958 – Junior Johnson (Sweep)

1963 – Marvin Panch (2)

1964 – Fred Lorenzen and Marvin Panch

1965 – Junior Johnson (Sweep)

1966 – Dick Hutcherson (2)

1967 – Darel Dieringer (1)

1968 – David Pearson (1)

1969 – David Pearson (2)

1979 – Bobby Allison (1)

1980 – Bobby Allison (2)

1990 – Mark Martin (2)

1992 – Davey Allison and Geoffrey Bodine

1994 – Geoffrey Bodine (2)

1995 – Mark Martin (2)

FORD’S NASCAR CRAFTSMAN TRUCK SERIES WINNERS AT NORTH WILKESBORO

1995 – Mike Bliss

1996 – Mark Martin

The Ford Mustang, celebrating its 61st anniversary in 2025, is the world’s best selling sports car. It is also one of the planet’s most popular race cars. With Mustang-based race cars competing in international sports car competition (GT3 and GT4), NASCAR, NHRA, Formula Drift, in Australian Supercars, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and in its own bespoke one-make series – Mustang Cup and Mustang Challenge – the platform has an unprecedented global reach. This weekend, 30 Mustang race cars are scheduled to race across all disciplines. Learn more at FordPerformance.com.