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Chris Janson to Bring ‘Good Vibes’ to Texas Motor Speedway with Crav’n Flavor Pre-Race Concert

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Official Release
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Grand Ole Opry member and award-winning artist, producer and songwriter Chris Janson to headline the Crav’n Flavor Pre-Race Concert at Texas Motor Speedway.
  • Grand Ole Opry member to perform WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY Crav’n Flavor Pre-Race Concert on Sunday, May 3.
  • Fans can secure front-stage access to the NASCAR Cup Series pre-race concert with the purchase of an Ultimate Fan Pass or Track Pass at www.texasmotorspeedway.com.

FORT WORTH, Texas (March 17, 2026) – Award-winning artist, producer and songwriter Chris Janson will bring the country vibes to the NASCAR Cup Series WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY on Sunday, May 3, as the headliner for the Crav’n Flavor Pre-Race Concert at Texas Motor Speedway.

The newly named Crav’n Flavor Pre-Race Concert is free for all race ticket holders. Fans looking to secure front-stage access to the pre-race concert can purchase a Track Pass upgrade or the Ultimate Fan Pass by visiting www.texasmotorspeedway.com.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Chris Janson energize our fans prior to the WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY,” Texas Motor Speedway Executive Vice President and General Manager Mark Faber said. “Chris is one of the top performers in country music and will bring the ‘Good Vibes’ on our most exciting day of the year. We’re thankful to have this new partnership with Crav’n Flavor, which will help elevate the race weekend experience for our fans.”

Janson is in the midst of his nationwide Wild Horses Untamed Tour, following the release of his latest studio album, Wild Horses. Janson’s current radio single, “Me & A Beer,” has been climbing the charts since the summer. The Grand Ole Opry member has built on that momentum with additional releases, including “Easy to Love, Harder to Hold,” inspired by his wife Kelly, and “Fun,” featuring David Lee Murphy.

Janson is sure to have the fans at Texas Motor Speedway singing along with his No. 1 hits “Buy Me a Boat,” “Fix a Drink,” “Good Vibes,” “All I Need is You” and “Done.” The party on the Crav’n Flavor Pre-Race Concert stage is set to begin at 12:30 p.m. and will lead directly into the NASCAR Cup Series driver intros and race action.

“I am pumped to be performing at Texas Motor Speedway for the May 3 race,” exclaimed Janson. “Country music and NASCAR is like me and hunting season…a winning combination!”

Crav’n Flavor, a longstanding partner with Janson, secured the naming rights for the Pre-Race Stage with a multi-year agreement with Texas Motor Speedway. The company produces more than 500 quality and convenient meal and snack solutions, providing something to satisfy every craving.

“Crav’n Flavor shoppers are passionate about live music and events, making this the perfect opportunity for the brand to deepen its connection with its shoppers,” said Randy Arceneaux, President and CEO, Affiliated Foods, Inc. “We are excited to sponsor the pre-race concert featuring our partner Chris Janson to create a memorable race day performance for Crav’n Flavor shoppers and bring the race’n and snack’n experience to new fans. These key partnerships have proven to be highly effective in building awareness and loyalty for Crav’n Flavor.”

The NASCAR tripleheader weekend at Texas Motor Speedway begins Friday, May 1 with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series SpeedyCash.com 250 at 7 p.m. (TV: FS1, Radio: PRN) followed by the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Andy’s Frozen Custard 340 on Saturday, May 2 at 2:30 p.m. (TV: CW, Radio: PRN). The NASCAR Cup Series WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY race will then cap off the weekend on Sunday, May 3 at 2:30 p.m. (TV: FS1, Radio: PRN).

“The Great American Speedway” also will play host to the High Limit Racing Stockyard Stampede on Thursday, April 30, and Saturday, May 2. Racing action begins at 7:30 p.m. on both days.

ABOUT CHRIS JANSON
Chris Janson is the real deal. An accomplished, award-winning artist, producer, and songwriter. Janson’s live shows and songwriting set him on a path of great success. The Grand Ole Opry member has amassed billions of global streams, Gold and Multi-Platinum awards, more than 10M in sales as a solo artist, and excess of 15M in sales combined with hits recorded by other notable artists such as Tim McGraw “Truck Yeah”, LoCash “How I’ll Always Be”, Hank Williams Jr. “Love This Life”, and more. Janson is best known for his true-to-self anthems, five of which are Number 1 hits including “Buy Me A Boat” (5x Platinum),”Fix A Drink” (Platinum), “Good Vibes” (Platinum), “All I Need Is You” and “Done” (Gold). Additional certifications include “Drunk Girl” (Platinum), “Holdin Her” (Gold), and his Buy Me a Boat album (Gold). Janson has been awarded twice with the prestigious NSAI “Top 10 Songs I Wish I’d Written” award, received an ACM Award, iHeart Radio Country Song of The Year award, among numerous nominations from the ACM and CMA. He is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist, mastering more than 10 instruments. Aside from his music, Janson is a happily married husband and father. He is involved in many notable Conservation and Philanthropy efforts, alongside his long-time partnership with Bass Pro Shops and his official partnership with nationally branded, Crav’n Flavor. Chris Janson was a small-town kid who dreamed big, won big, and proudly lives the American Dream. His latest album, Wild Horses, is out now.

ABOUT CRAV’N FLAVOR
Crav’n Flavor is a brand with a wide variety of craveable meal and snack solutions for on-the-go shoppers. With more than 500 quality and convenient meal and snack solutions ranging from cookies, crackers, salty snacks, and snack nuts and trail mixes to frozen appetizers, breakfasts, desserts, entrees, ice cream and pizza as well as refrigerated cookie dough and beef jerky, Crav’n Flavor has something to satisfy every craving. The brand – procured by Topco Associates, LLC to support member-owners – has products currently available to purchase in thousands of Topco member stores across the country. For more information on Crav’n Flavor or to see where Crav’n Flavor products are available for purchase, visit www.cravnflavor.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS AT TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY
Texas Motor Speedway’s upcoming events for 2026 are POWRi Racing – Midgets and Micros (March 19-21 at Lil’ Texas Motor Speedway), We Are Mopar (March 28), NASCAR Racing Experience (April 11), Bubble Run (April 18), Team Texas – David Starr’s Racing School (April 18), Pate Swap Meet (April 23-April 25), FuelFest (April 25) Kubota High Limit Racing Stockyard Stampede (April 30 & May 2 at TMS Dirt Track), NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series SpeedyCash.com 250 (May 1), NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Part Series Andy’s Frozen Custard 340 (May 2), NASCAR Cup Series WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY (May 3), NASCAR Racing Experience (May 4), C10 Nationals (May 8-9), Holley LS Fest (May 15-16), Bandas Y Trocas (May 23), FoodieLand (June 5-7), NASCAR Racing Experience (June 13), Team Texas – David Starr’s Racing School (June 20), NASCAR Racing Experience (July 11), NASCAR Racing Experience (Aug. 1), Team Texas – David Starr’s Racing School (Aug. 29), Astound Business Solutions Texas World Dirt Track Championship (Oct. 1-3 at TMS Dirt Track), 33rd Summit Racing Lone Star Nationals (Oct. 2-3), October Madness (Oct. 10), Kubota High Limit Racing Series All-In Championship Weekend (Oct. 16-17 at TMS Dirt Track), Sick New World (Oct. 24), POWRi Racing – Micros (Oct. 29-31 at Lil’ Texas Motor Speedway), POWRi Championship (Nov. 5-7 at TMS Dirt Track), Team Texas – David Starr’s Racing School (Dec. 5) and NASCAR Racing Experience (Dec. 12).

ABOUT TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY
Texas Motor Speedway is among the largest sports and entertainment venues in the United States. The speedway has an array of amenities such as Big Hoss, the largest single LED screen of any sports facility in North America, making it one of the premier venues in the world of sports. The 1.5-mile superspeedway located in Fort Worth hosts all three NASCAR national series among its various races and specialty events throughout the year. Texas Motor Speedway is owned and operated by Speedway Motorsports, LLC, a leading marketer and promoter of motorsports entertainment in the United States. For more information, please visit texasmotorspeedway.com.

MORE INFO
Keep track of Texas Motor Speedway’s busy schedule by following on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Keep up with all the latest news and information on the Speedway website and TMS mobile app.

Ford Racing NASCAR – Darlington 1 Advance

By
Official Release
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DARLINGTON 1

Friday, March 20 – NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, 7:30 p.m. ET (FS1)
Saturday, March 21 – NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, 5:30 p.m. ET (CW)
Sunday, March 22 – NASCAR Cup Series, 3 p.m. ET (FS1)

All three of NASCAR’s top national series will be in action this weekend as Darlington Raceway hosts a tripleheader beginning Friday night with the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Ford Racing has won two of the season’s first three races with F-150 drivers Chandler Smith and Layne Riggs while Mustang Dark Horse driver Ryan Blaney owns a win on the Cup side.

BLANEY THIRD IN STANDINGS

Ryan Blaney continues to be the highest Ford Racing driver in the NASCAR Cup Series point standings as he sits third after five races. Even though he saw his streak of three straight top-10 finishes come to an end in Las Vegas, Blaney was more a victim of an ill-timed caution that resulted in a 16th-place result. In the last three weeks, Blaney has shown consistent speed, which includes being Ford’s best qualifier at Circuit of The Americas and Las Vegas, and a victory at Phoenix Raceway sandwiched between.

RFK STILL ROLLING

The RFK Racing trio of Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher and Ryan Preece continued their solid start to the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season as all three finished 11th or better in Sunday’s race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Buescher finished a Ford-best sixth while Keselowski was 10th and Preece 11th. That marked the second time in five events that at least two RFK Mustangs finished in the top 10 (Daytona), which doesn’t include the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium in which Preece won and Buescher was eighth. All three drivers are currently in the top 16 overall with Buescher ninth, Keselowski 12th and Preece 13th in the point standings.

BRAD KESELOWSKI: “My eyes are wide open. The biggest thing I’m thinking about at Darlington is to go 50 laps on a set of tires was almost impossible with the Next Gen car in the last two or three seasons, and now that we have more horsepower and less aero, I don’t know if we’re gonna be able to go 35 laps. So, keeping up with the tires is going to be a big challenge. The drivers managing it, the teams putting our setups to where it can do it. Darlington is going to be a heavy lift. It’s always a heavy lift, but it’s a heavier lift now, I think, with these circumstances and a lot of unknowns entering the race at Darlington. It might turn out no different, but I don’t think that will be the case. I think it’s gonna be a really difficult race.”

KESELOWSKI SCORES FIRST WIN FOR MUSTANG DARK HORSE;

FIRST AS DRIVER/OWNER

Brad Keselowski passed Chris Buescher and Tyler Reddick with nine laps to go after those two made contact battling for the lead to capture the Goodyear 400 in 2024 at Darlington Raceway. It was the first race win for the Ford Mustang Dark Horse. The win represented the first for Keselowski since he became co-owner with Jack Roush and snapped a 110-race winless streak. Keselowski qualified second and was a fixture at the front of the field all afternoon. He finished third in Stage 1, second in Stage 2, and completed the progression as he led five times for 37 laps on the day.

LOGANO PICKS UP FIRST DARLINGTON WIN

Joey Logano passed William Byron with two laps to go to win the Goodyear 400 in 2022 for his first NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season and first at Darlington Raceway. Logano dominated the Throwback Weekend, capturing the pole on Saturday and then winning the first stage before green flag pit stops and race strategy took over. He went on to lead eight times for 107 laps, most among all drivers, and dueled with Byron for the win over the final 26 laps.

A TOP FOUR FORD SWEEP

Ford Racing is coming off a sweep of the top four positions in the inaugural St. Petersburg Street Race two weeks ago in which Layne Riggs drove his Love’s Travel Stops Ford F-150 to victory with Ty Majeski second, Ben Rhodes third and Chandler Smith fourth. The last time Ford achieved that kind of sweep was on Oct. 11, 1998 at Sears Point for the Kragen/Exide 151 in which Boris Said won with Mike Bliss second, Tony Raines third and Joe Ruttman fourth.

QUALIFYING HOT STREAK

Ford Racing has gotten off to a fast start in 2026, having won two of the first three events with Front Row Motorsports teammates Chandler Smith and Layne Riggs. But that also pertains to qualifying, where the Blue Oval is 2-for-2 after ThorSport Racing teammates Ty Majeski and Jake Garcia claimed the pole at Daytona and Atlanta, respectively. Qualifying in St. Petersburg was canceled due to weather.

FOUR OF THE TOP FIVE

After three races, Ford F-150 drivers make up four of the top five spots in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series point standings. Chandler Smith, the only driver in the series who has posted top 10 finishes in all three events, leads the way by 34 points over Ben Rhodes, who is the only Ford driver with a series win at Darlington. Ty Majeski is third while Layne Riggs is fifth.

FORD NASCAR CUP SERIES WINNERS

AT DARLINGTON

1956 – Curtis Turner

1960 – Joe Weatherly (1)

1961 – Fred Lorenzen and Nelson Stacy

1962 – Nelson Stacy and Larry Frank

1963 – Fireball Roberts (2)

1964 – Fred Lorenzen

1965 – Junior Johnson and Ned Jarrett

1968 – David Pearson (1)

1969 – Lee Roy Yarbrough (2)

1970 – David Pearson (1)

1981 – Neil Bonnett (2)

1982 – Dale Earnhardt (1)

1985 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1988 – Bill Elliott (2)

1992 – Bill Elliott (1)

1993 – Mark Martin (2)

1994 – Bill Elliott (2)

1997 – Dale Jarrett (1)

1998 – Dale Jarrett (1)

1999 – Jeff Burton (Sweep)

2001 – Dale Jarrett (1)

2005 – Greg Biffle

2006 – Greg Biffle

2018 – Brad Keselowski

2020 – Kevin Harvick (1) and (3)

2022 – Joey Logano (1)

2024 – Brad Keselowski (1) and Chase Briscoe (2)

FORD NOAPS WINNERS AT DARLINGTON

1993 – Mark Martin (2)

1994 – Mark Martin (Sweep)

1995 – Mark Martin (2)

1996 – Mark Martin (1)

1997 – Jeff Burton (2)

1999 – Mark Martin (2)

2000 – Mark Martin (Sweep)

2001 – Jeff Green (1) and Jeff Burton (2)

2002 – Jeff Burton (Sweep)

2004 – Greg Biffle

2005 – Matt Kenseth

2009 – Matt Kenseth

2018 – Brad Keselowski

2019 – Cole Custer

2020 – Chase Briscoe (1)

FORD NASCAR CRAFTSMAN TRUCK SERIES WINNERS AT DARLINGTON

2020 – Ben Rhodes

As the spirit of America, the Ford Mustang is the world’s best selling sports car and 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 Supercars, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and in its own bespoke regional one-make series – Mustang Cup and Mustang Challenge – the platform has an unprecedented global reach. This weekend, 46 Mustang race cars are scheduled to race across all disciplines. Learn more about Mustang at www.FordRacing.com.

Anticipation Level High for ARCA Menards Series East Season Opener at Hickory Motor Speedway on March 28

By
Official Release
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TEMPERANCE, Mich. – (March 17, 2026) – The first-ever ARCA Menards Series East race at the legendary Hickory Motor Speedway, set for Saturday, March 28, is now less than two weeks away and the excitement level for big-time stock car racing’s return to The Birthplace of NASCAR’s Stars is palpable.

Advance ticket sales for the 200-lap season opener for the ARCA Menards Series East have been strong, and entries continue to be filed at a rapid pace.

NASCAR spotter and former super late model driver Derek Kneeland, who calls the shots from the roof for two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch, has announced he will drive the No. 28 Chevrolet for Pinnacle Racing Group, the team led by former track champion Shane Huffman. Huffman was Hickory’s limited late model champion in 1996 and the track’s 1999 late model stock car champion en route to the NASCAR Blue Ridge Regional Championship. Kneeland will be substituting for the team’s regular driver, Carson Brown, who will be unable to compete due to schedule conflicts.

“It might be the only ARCA Menards Series race I am ever able to run, but it’s definitely a dream come true,” Kneeland said. “I’ll have a car I know can run up front, I hope I can get it there and keep it there.”

Huffman’s son Landon will also make his much-anticipated ARCA Menards Series platform debut at Hickory alongside reigning series champion Isaac Kitzmiller in the CR7 Motorsports stable. The younger Huffman, 19 years of age, finished second in the CARS Tour late model stock car race at North Wilkesboro Speedway last fall.

A pair of highly-touted teenagers will open their championship runs at Hickory, with three-time East winner Max Reaves in a Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota and Tristan McKee in a second Pinnacle Racing Group Chevrolet. Reaves, the protégé of 2000 NASCAR Cup Series champion Bobby Labonte, won his first three ARCA Menards Series East starts last season and picked up a pair of ARCA Menards Series wins to go along with, while McKee became the second-youngest winner in ARCA Menards Series history at just 15 years, 4 days of age when he won in his debut at Watkins Glen International.

Nitro Motorsports team principal Nick Tucker will return to the driver’s seat for the first time in ARCA Menards Series platform competition since 2013 in his organization’s No. 70 Toyota. Tucker had 14 career ARCA Menards Series starts and 29 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series starts before stepping out of the cockpit full-time to concentrate on driver development and coaching in karting and road racing.
A sizable field is expected to contend for the 30 available starting positions in the Hickory ARCA Menards East 200. The full entry list will be released the week of the race.

On-track activity is scheduled to begin on Friday, March 27 with an optional pre-race practice from 4 to 6:30 pm ET. Official practice for the ARCA Menards Series East is slated for 2 pm on Saturday, March 28, with Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole Qualifying to follow at 4 pm. A on-track autograph session is scheduled from 6:30 to 7 pm, with the Hickory 200 to follow at 7:30. The race will be streamed live on FloRacing and live timing & scoring data will be available on ARCARacing.com. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow @ARCA_Racing on X (formerly Twitter).

Tickets for the ARCA Menards Series East Hickory 200 at Hickory Motor Speedway are available at TrackEnterprises.com.

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.

White-Knuckling Darlington’s Red Stripes

By
Official Release
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Cody Ware on Tackling the Track ‘Too Tough to Tame’

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (March 17, 2026) – If you’re going to drive a racecar at Darlington Raceway, you’re going to earn a “Darlington Stripe.” It is a rite of passage at the South Carolina track, not just for rookie racers in their first visit to the 1.366-mile oval, but also for veteran wheelmen who have logged thousands of laps around its iconic egg-shaped layout.

The ubiquitous red-and-white scrape marks that eventually appear across the right-rear quarterpanel of drivers’ racecars are Darlington’s seal of approval. If you have them, you’re doing it right. If you don’t, you’re leaving speed on the table. Known as the track “Too Tough to Tame,” Darlington is where drivers literally earn their stripes.

“Riding the wall is the fast way around Darlington. It’s always been that way around turns one and two, and now it’s that way in turns three and four,” said Cody Ware, driver of the No. 51 Jacob Construction Chevrolet for Rick Ware Racing.

“There’s a lot of risk versus reward there, but if you want to make lap time and you want to be fast, it’s right by the wall, almost kissing it. It’s the place to be, for sure.”

It is a delicate balance, trading speed for security.

“There’s no room to give yourself any cushion if something goes wrong,” Ware said. “At a lot of other tracks, you have a couple of car widths to kind of catch it and collect yourself. But a single mistake at Darlington will have you up in the fence, where the whole right side of your car is damaged, not just some scrapes on the quarterpanel. You’ve definitely got to be on your ‘A’ game from start to finish.”

Darlington is one of NASCAR’s oldest venues and arguably its quirkiest. Built in 1949 by Harold Brasington, the track has hosted NASCAR Cup Series races since 1950, and Sunday’s Goodyear 400 will mark its 130th Cup Series race.

Its egg shape, where turns three and four are definitively tighter than turns one and two, came from when Brasington plowed up fields formerly bearing peanuts and cotton and purposely shaped the track narrower at its west end so it wouldn’t disturb a minnow pond belonging to Sherman Ramsey, the man who sold Brasington the property.

The layout that debuted on Sept. 4, 1950 when 75 stock cars took the green flag three-wide for the inaugural Southern 500 is essentially the same layout today.

“They call it the track ‘Too Tough to Tame’ for a reason,” Ware said. “The way that place is built, it’s just tough, no matter how many times you’ve been there.”

Darlington’s asphalt is aged, and its gritty surface places a premium on tire management, a concept that’s easier said than done while barreling 180 mph into the track’s corners, where turns one and two are banked at 25 degrees and turns three and four are banked at 23 degrees.

“It’s always brutal,” Ware said. “There’s never a time where you unload off the trailer and fire off for practice and qualifying that you feel comfortable. Even if you have speed and you’re competitive, you’re still on edge. And when your car isn’t where you want it handling-wise, you’re even more on edge. You’re always white-knuckling it, sawing at the wheel, manhandling the racecar every lap.”

The Goodyear 400 will be a race within a race. Drivers will be racing each other while racing to keep up with track conditions.

“This year, for sure, is going to be more about racing the track and racing the tire. We have more horsepower, less downforce, and the tires are going to wear out faster. It’s going to make for a wild Sunday afternoon,” Ware said.

“Just focusing on what we need to manage our tires, where we have as little tire degradation and lap-time falloff as we can throughout a run, that’s going to be the key to having a successful day at Darlington. And, of course, being smart when you’re up against that wall, and also navigating restarts. Turn two is always a pretty tricky place, and getting through those first couple of laps on the start and on restarts is going to be very important to having a good day.”

The road to a good raceday begins Saturday at 2:30 p.m. EDT with a one-hour practice before qualifying at 3:40 p.m. Prime Video and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will provide live coverage of both. Sunday’s Goodyear 400 goes green at 3 p.m. with live, flag-to-flag coverage delivered by FS1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Rick Ware Racing:

Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with wife Lisa by his side, Ware transitioned out of the driver’s seat and into fulltime team ownership. He has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that competes full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning winning teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Progressive American Flat Track (AFT), FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) and zMAX CARS Tour.

TPC Racing Returns to IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo

By
Official Release
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Reunites with Team Driver Scott Schmidt for LB Cup Campaign at Season-Opening Sebring Doubleheader

SEBRING, Florida (March 17, 2026) – TPC Racing returns to the IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America grid this weekend at Sebring International Raceway and reunites with driver Scott Schmidt for the winning team’s first appearance in the ultra-competitive IMSA single-make series showcasing the Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo since 2024.

Schmidt, a Bronze-rated driver, will pilot the No. 38 TPC Racing Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2 in what will be his first series start since a breakout 2022 season with TPC that saw the pairing regularly visit victory lane. During that standout season, Schmidt secured his first career Lamborghini Super Trofeo victory in the LB Cup class at Watkins Glen International (pictured below), adding to a streak of three solo drives to the podium in four races. The solid record of success included Schmidt’s first Super Trofeo podium finish at NOLA Motorsports Park, where he drove to a third-place result in wet conditions in the 2022 race.

This weekend’s event at the historic Sebring International Raceway marks not only Schmidt’s return to the cockpit but also TPC Racing’s first Lamborghini Super Trofeo entry since 2024. The TPC Racing team first entered Super Trofeo in 2020, with select race starts that year and in 2021, but the team hit its stride in 2022 with multiple entries, winning its first race in that year’s season-opening event at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Most recently competing in the Pro-Am division, TPC Racing secured back-to-back class podium performances at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMSA) in 2023, finishing third on Saturday and second on Sunday. The team carried that momentum to the season-ending Lamborghini World Finals at Vallelunga in Italy, where TPC Racing captured a stunning Pro-Am class victory in the final race of the year, capping off the season on the highest step of the podium.

The 2024 season highlight was a breakthrough and calculated performance at Watkins Glen International (WGI) in June. The TPC Racing entry swept the podium, including some precision timing while taking the checkered flag under caution, to seal the Pro-Am win in the weekend’s opening race. The TPC Racing team followed up with a third-place finish in Saturday’s second and final race of the weekend at WGI.

The first Sebring Super Trofeo race is scheduled to go green at 6:05 p.m. EST on Thursday, March 19. The second final 50-minute sprint of the season opener starts at 4:35 p.m. on Friday, March 20. Both races can be viewed on NBC’s Peacock livestreaming network with simultaneous coverage available on the IMSA YouTube Channel and IMSA.TV.

Harris Levitas, TPC Racing Director of Race Operations: “We are extremely excited and look forward to returning to the competitive IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo series and racing once again with our longtime TPC Racing friend and team driver Scott Schmidt. Scott had a tremendous run with us a few years ago and stepped away just as he was progressing to focus on his successful business endeavors. It is so nice to have him back, a true part of the TPC Racing family, and testing with him and our competitors in IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo last week at Sebring made us realize how much we missed this awesome series. It is great to be back!”

About TPC Racing: TPC Racing is the Mid-Atlantic’s premier maintenance, service, tuning and modification center dedicated solely to Porsche sports cars. TPC Racing specializes in R&D and sales of high-performance modifications for Porsche sports cars and race cars, offering a wide range of vehicle upgrades. Best known for a line of forced induction solutions for the Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster, a long-time focus on only one make, Porsche, has enabled TPC Racing to become experts in Porsche service, tuning, and racing. In 2000, TPC Racing began entering races under its own banner, scoring an SGS-class Championship in 2004 in the Grand-American Rolex Series and was a class winner in the 2006 Rolex 24 At Daytona, and captured the 2013 and 2016 IMSA Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge USA Gold Cup Championships. More information can be found at www.TPCRacing.com.

The Strategic Migration of Professional Sports to Direct Distribution Models

By
SM
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Photo by Apartment Life on Unsplash

The structural collapse of the regional sports network (RSN) model has forced a fundamental rethink of how professional leagues distribute their most valuable asset: live action. For decades, the relationship was static; leagues sold their broadcasting rights to massive media conglomerates, who then bundled those rights into expensive cable packages. However, as cord-cutting accelerates and traditional networks face bankruptcy, the power dynamic is shifting toward a direct-to-fan distribution model. This transition is not merely about changing the pipe through which content flows; it is about the creation of interactive software where the fan is no longer a passive observer, but an active participant in a data-rich narrative.

Commercial Integration and Real-Time Fan Engagement

One of the most significant advantages of owning the delivery software is the ability to integrate secondary actions directly into the video player. We are moving toward a frictionless setup where a fan can buy a player’s jersey, join a fantasy league, or participate in a prediction pool without ever looking away from the live game. This seamlessness is the ultimate goal for modern sports executives, as it turns every minute of game time into a potential revenue event.

Synchronizing Content with Predictive Action

This integration extends into the world of predictive gaming and micro-betting. For a fan who identifies a shift in momentum during a live broadcast, having a verified nv casino online link available for a quick predictive wager becomes a natural part of the interactive experience rather than a disruptive external activity. By merging the broadcast with the transaction, leagues can capitalize on the immediate emotional response of the fan. This level of commerce integration was physically impossible on a standard television set, which required the user to switch their attention to a secondary device.

The Rise of Multi-Stream Personalization

The interactive nature of these apps allows for a “choose your own adventure” style of viewing. Fans are no longer limited to the director’s cut of a match. They can now access:

  • Tactical cameras: High-angle views that show the entire field for strategy enthusiasts.
  • Player-cams: Dedicated feeds following specific superstars throughout the match.
  • Mic’d up audio: Real-time audio from coaches and players on the sidelines.
  • Live statistics: Real-time overlays that update with every pass, shot, or tackle.

This level of detail ensures that every subset of the fanbase—from the casual viewer to the hardcore analyst—receives a product tailored to their specific interest.

The Financial Logic of Data-Driven Distribution

The primary driver behind this migration is the erosion of the traditional “guaranteed” revenue from cable carriage fees. As millions of households cancel their television subscriptions, the financial floor that supported major league contracts has become unstable. Direct-to-fan apps allow leagues to capture 100% of the subscription revenue while simultaneously gathering proprietary data on every click, scroll, and view.

Price Elasticity and Content Unbundling

Furthermore, these apps allow for the unbundling of content. A fan who only cares about their local team can now pay a specific, lower price for just those games, rather than being forced to subsidize an entire network of channels they never watch. This price elasticity is critical for capturing younger demographics who have grown up in a world of on-demand, specialized streaming.

To understand how these apps differ from the television experience of the previous generation, we can examine the specific technical and functional upgrades provided by modern streaming software:

FeatureLegacy linear televisionInteractive direct-to-fan app
User agencyZero (One-way broadcast)High (Multiple camera angles, live stats)
Data flowEstimated (Nielsen ratings)Precise (Real-time user behavior)
LatencyLow (3-5 seconds)Ultra-low (Moving toward sub-second)
MonetizationFixed Ads / SubscriptionMicro-transactions, Dynamic Ads, Betting
SocialNoneLive chat, Watch parties, Community polls

The data in the table highlights that the app-based model is designed for a participant, whereas the TV model was designed for a viewer. This shift in identity is what makes the direct model so potent for long-term retention.

Engineering the Future of Sports Interaction

Leagues are essentially becoming tech companies that happen to produce sports content. They are investing heavily in several key strategic goals to ensure the stability of their new delivery systems.

The biggest challenge in ditching traditional TV is the technical overhead required to deliver high-definition, low-latency video to millions of concurrent users. In a championship game, a lag of even five seconds can be disastrous. A fan might see a notification on their phone or hear a neighbor cheer before the action happens on their screen. Leagues are solving this through heavy investments in Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) and proprietary encoding technology.

Knowing exactly who the fan is, where they live, and what their spending habits are allows for hyper-personalized marketing. This data enables the creation of highly targeted advertising slots that are far more valuable than the “shotgun approach” of traditional TV commercials. Verified user accounts also allow for a more secure environment for those engaging in the integrated commercial features mentioned previously.

The Complete Guide to Mobile Car Washing in London

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

London is a city that never stops moving. From Canary Wharf to South London, from bustling High Streets to quiet suburban roads, millions of residents and workers juggle demanding schedules where finding time for car maintenance feels nearly impossible. Yet keeping your vehicle clean and well-maintained is crucial for both its appearance and longevity. Traditional car washes require driving time, waiting around, and fitting appointments into an already packed schedule. Fortunately, a modern solution has emerged that transforms the way Londoners care for their vehicles. Professional mobile car washing brings expert vehicle care directly to you, wherever you are in the capital.

What is Mobile Car Washing?

The Modern Approach to Vehicle Care

Mobile car washing represents a paradigm shift in how vehicle owners maintain their cars. Instead of visiting a fixed location, trained technicians arrive at your chosen location with fully equipped vehicles containing everything needed for professional cleaning. Whether you need a quick exterior wash or comprehensive premium detailing, these services deliver consistent, high-quality results customised to your vehicle’s requirements.

Why London’s Car Owners Are Making the Switch

London’s diverse population includes time-strapped professionals, business owners, parents, and commuters who recognise the value of convenience without sacrificing quality. The combination of time savings, environmental responsibility, and professional standards makes mobile car wash London services increasingly essential for maintaining vehicle standards across the capital.

Key Benefits of Professional Mobile Car Washing

Reclaim Your Valuable Time

Time is London’s most precious commodity. Mobile car washing eliminates the need to drive across the city, find parking at a car wash facility, wait for your turn, and return home. These services come to you, whether at home, the office, or anywhere else you park. This means you’re free to work, spend time with family, or simply relax whilst your vehicle receives expert attention.

Unmatched Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you’re based in Westminster, Croydon, Barnet, or anywhere throughout London, professional mobile services adapt to your location. Your vehicle receives care wherever it’s parked, making convenient maintenance a reality for London’s on-the-go lifestyle.

Environmental Responsibility

Professional mobile car washing utilises water-efficient systems and eco-friendly cleaning products that minimise environmental impact. Modern operations often use filtered, recycled water, reducing waste compared to traditional facilities. You’re maintaining your vehicle whilst supporting sustainable practices.

Consistent Professional Results

Every service maintains the same high standards. Professional technicians use industry-standard equipment and premium cleaning products that protect your vehicle’s paint finish, extend its lifespan, and maintain its resale value.

Better Value for Your Money

Without facility overhead costs, mobile providers offer competitive pricing. Many offer flexible packages and subscription options that deliver superior value compared to traditional car wash alternatives.

Mobile Car Washing Services Available

Standard Exterior Wash

A comprehensive exterior clean including wheel cleaning, tyre treatment, and protective wax application. This foundational service keeps your vehicle looking fresh and protects paintwork against London’s urban environment.

Premium Detailing Services

For complete restoration, premium detailing includes interior vacuuming, dashboard conditioning, upholstery cleaning, window treatment, and meticulous exterior polishing. These services restore vehicles to showroom condition.

Corporate Fleet Management

London businesses with multiple vehicles benefit significantly from professional mobile maintenance. Services can be scheduled during off-hours, ensuring company vehicles remain in excellent condition without disrupting operations.

Seasonal Maintenance Programmes

London’s weather varies dramatically throughout the year. Winter salt residue, spring pollen, summer grime, and autumn leaves all require different approaches. Professional mobile car washers understand these seasonal needs and adjust their methods accordingly.

Common Questions About Mobile Car Washing

How long does a mobile car wash appointment typically take?

Standard exterior washes take 30 to 60 minutes depending on your vehicle’s size and current condition. Premium detailing services require 2 to 3 hours for comprehensive, showroom-quality results.

Will mobile car washing work in London’s wet weather?

Absolutely. Professional technicians work in various weather conditions. Light rain rarely causes issues, though heavy rainfall may result in rescheduling to ensure optimal results and technician safety.

Are the cleaning products suitable for all vehicle types?

Yes. Professional-grade cleaning products are specifically formulated to protect all vehicle types, from compact city cars to luxury models. These products are significantly safer than household cleaners and actually enhance your car’s finish.

Can I arrange regular mobile car washing?

Definitely. Most London providers offer flexible scheduling, including weekly, fortnightly, or monthly packages. Subscription services often include discounted rates and ensure your vehicle remains in top condition year-round.

What areas of London do mobile services cover?

Professional providers throughout London offer comprehensive coverage. Services are available across all London boroughs, from central London to outer regions, making professional car care accessible everywhere.

Choosing Your Mobile Car Washing Provider

When selecting a service, consider these essential factors:

  • Experience and proven track record with London customers
  • Professional insurance and proper credentials for your protection
  • Transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden charges
  • Flexible scheduling that accommodates your routine
  • Positive customer reviews demonstrating reliability and quality

Conclusion

Mobile car washing has revolutionised vehicle maintenance for London’s busy population. By choosing professional mobile car wash London services, you’re investing in your vehicle’s longevity whilst reclaiming precious time in your schedule. Whether you’re a busy professional, business owner, or simply someone who values convenience and quality, mobile car washing delivers exceptional results without the traditional hassle. Your vehicle deserves expert care, and you deserve the convenience of having it arrive wherever you are in London. The future of vehicle maintenance is here, and it’s more accessible than ever.

Common Challenges in Motorcycle Accident Claims and How to Overcome Them

By
SM
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Motorcycle accident claims often face several common challenges, including proving fault, dealing with bias against riders, limited evidence, serious injury disputes, insurance company tactics, and delays in the claims process. 

Overcoming these challenges usually requires strong documentation, clear evidence, proper medical records, and timely action. When these issues are handled carefully, victims have a better chance of receiving fair compensation. This is very common in Seattle.

Seattle is one of the most active cities in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its tech industry, busy highways, and growing population, the city experiences heavy traffic throughout the day. With more vehicles on the road, accidents involving motorcycles can occur more frequently. When a motorcycle crash in Seattle, Washington happens, victims often face not only physical injuries but also legal and insurance challenges when filing a claim.

Understanding these challenges early can help riders prepare better and protect their rights during the claims process.

1. Bias Against Motorcycle Riders

One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle accident claims is the bias that sometimes exists against riders. Some people assume that motorcyclists are reckless or take unnecessary risks on the road.

Unfortunately, this bias can influence insurance companies and even witnesses when they evaluate an accident. As a result, the motorcyclist may be blamed unfairly.

To overcome this issue, it is important to rely on clear and factual evidence such as:

  • Police reports
  • Traffic camera footage
  • Witness statements
  • Photos from the accident scene

These pieces of evidence help present the facts and reduce the effect of unfair assumptions.

2. Difficulty Proving Fault

Another common challenge is proving who caused the accident. Motorcycle crashes can happen quickly, and sometimes there are few witnesses available.

Drivers may claim they did not see the motorcycle or may blame the rider for the collision. This can create confusion when determining responsibility.

To address this challenge, collecting strong evidence immediately after the accident is very important. Helpful steps include:

  • Taking photos of the vehicles and road conditions
  • Recording the location of the crash
  • Gathering contact details from witnesses
  • Requesting a copy of the police report

The more details you gather, the easier it becomes to establish fault.

3. Serious Injuries and Medical Disputes

Motorcycle accidents often result in more serious injuries compared to regular car accidents. Riders have less physical protection, which increases the risk of severe harm.

Common injuries may include:

  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Road rash and severe cuts

Because these injuries can require long-term treatment, insurance companies may try to question the severity of the injuries or the cost of medical care.

Proper medical documentation can help overcome this challenge. Visiting a doctor immediately and following all treatment recommendations can strengthen the claim.

4. Limited Evidence at the Scene

Motorcycle accidents sometimes leave limited evidence. For example, motorcycles may move after impact or suffer damage that makes it harder to analyze the crash.

In some cases, there may also be fewer physical clues compared to larger vehicle collisions.

To deal with this issue, victims should try to gather as much information as possible right after the accident. Important evidence may include:

  • Photos of the accident scene
  • Pictures of road signs and signals
  • Damage to both vehicles
  • Weather and road conditions

Even small details can become valuable during the investigation.

5. Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies often try to reduce the amount they pay in claims. This can be another challenge for motorcycle accident victims.

They may attempt to:

  • Shift blame to the rider
  • Downplay the seriousness of injuries
  • Offer quick but low settlement amounts

Because of these tactics, it is important to review any settlement offers carefully. Victims should avoid accepting an early offer without fully understanding the long-term costs of medical treatment and recovery.

6. Delays in the Claims Process

Motorcycle accident claims can sometimes take longer to resolve than expected. Insurance companies may request additional documentation or conduct lengthy investigations.

While delays can be frustrating, staying organized can help keep the process moving.

Helpful steps include:

  • Keeping all medical records and receipts
  • Maintaining communication with insurance representatives
  • Documenting recovery progress

Being prepared with proper records can prevent unnecessary delays.

How These Challenges Connect

Although each challenge may seem separate, they often occur together in motorcycle accident claims. For example, bias against riders may combine with limited evidence to make fault harder to prove.

However, strong documentation and clear medical records can significantly improve the situation. When victims understand the process and gather the right information, they can overcome many of these obstacles.

Preparation and awareness play a key role in protecting a rider’s rights after an accident.

Key Takeaways

  • Motorcycle accident claims often face challenges such as rider bias, difficulty proving fault, injury disputes, limited evidence, insurance tactics, and delays.
  • Strong evidence like photos, witness statements, and police reports can help prove what happened.
  • Immediate medical treatment and proper documentation support injury claims.
  • Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, so reviewing settlement offers carefully is important.
  • Staying organized and acting quickly can help overcome many common claim challenges.

Motorsports Slots: How Long Will We Have to Wait?

By
SM
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Motorsports continues to hold a powerful place in the American sports landscape. Large television audiences, loyal fan communities, and strong race day attendance have helped the motorsport maintain a broad national reach. Recent reports highlight how motorsports events frequently outperform other major sports broadcasts in viewership. One race at Circuit of the Americas drew remarkable attention, ranking among the most-watched sporting events in the United States during its broadcast window. The growing involvement of figures such as Michael Jordan through team ownership has also helped bring fresh attention to the series while expanding its cultural visibility.

This sustained popularity makes motorsports a natural candidate for new forms of gaming entertainment. Video games, mobile apps, and digital sports platforms already extend the racing experience beyond the track. One format that stands out for future crossover potential is live slot gaming. The structure of live slots combines real-time gameplay with themed presentation, making it a strong platform for sports-inspired casino entertainment.

Why Live Slots Work for Themed Games

Live slot games have become a popular format within digital casinos because they combine traditional slot mechanics with live broadcast-style gameplay. Players watch a host or automated system operate the game in real time while results appear instantly. The format supports themed visuals, interactive graphics, and dynamic pacing that resembles live entertainment. Top casinos use live slots based around cultural or regional themes that resonate with specific audiences. A clear example appears in the live slot title Duo Fu Duo Cai, a game inspired by traditional Chinese symbols associated with prosperity and fortune. The design incorporates colors, imagery, and motifs that reflect Asian cultural traditions, creating an atmosphere that connects with players who appreciate that style of presentation.

Themed design plays a major role in attracting different communities. Games built around mythology, historical imagery, or regional traditions show how live slots can adapt to a wide range of cultural interests. This same design flexibility makes sports-themed games especially compelling.

Why Live Slots Fit the Experience

Motorsports provides a powerful visual identity that aligns naturally with the energy of live slot gaming. High-speed action, bold team colors, iconic race tracks, and distinctive stock cars create a visual language that translates easily into interactive graphics.

A motorsports-themed live slot could feature race-inspired bonus rounds, animated pit stops, or spinning reels designed around racing wheels. Track environments could appear in the game background, while sound effects could recreate the atmosphere of a race-day crowd. These design elements would allow the slot format to capture the excitement of motorsports while maintaining the simplicity that slot players expect.

The pace of motorsports also aligns well with the rhythm of live slot gameplay. Races involve constant momentum, strategic decisions, and moments of suspense that build anticipation. Live slots rely on similar emotional pacing through spin cycles, bonus triggers, and visual reveals. This shared sense of momentum makes the racing theme feel natural within the slot environment.

Brand recognition further strengthens the concept. Motorsports logos, car numbers, and track names carry meaning for millions of fans across the United States. Integrating these elements into a live slot game would give racing fans a new way to engage with the sport outside of race weekends.

Expansion Into Gaming

The motorsport has already demonstrated strong momentum in the gaming world. Console and mobile platforms host several NASCAR titles that bring the racing experience into digital environments.

One of the most recent releases is NASCAR 25, a racing game developed for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The game delivers a detailed simulation of modern NASCAR competition. Players can drive official stock cars, compete on real-world tracks, and manage race strategy during events. Advanced graphics and physics engines enable cars to behave in ways that mirror real-world track performance, giving players a highly immersive racing experience.

Career modes and multiplayer options also expand the game’s appeal. Players can progress through racing seasons, develop teams, and compete against other drivers online. This format creates a long-term gameplay experience that keeps fans engaged with motorsports beyond the television broadcast.

Mobile gaming has also embraced the sport through Motorsports Manager, a strategy-focused racing game available on smartphones and tablets. Rather than driving the car directly, players act as team managers, responsible for race planning and pit-stop timing. The gameplay centers on strategy decisions that influence race outcomes.

Players select drivers, manage resources, and adjust tactics during live races. These elements mirror the strategic side of motorsports competition, where team coordination and decision-making shape the final results. The mobile format allows fans to interact with motorsports during short gameplay sessions while still experiencing the depth of race management.

The Potential Future of Motorsports Live Slots

The success of motorsports-themed video games and mobile apps demonstrates the sport’s ability to thrive across digital platforms. Live slot gaming represents another format where the brand’s visual energy and competitive atmosphere could translate effectively.

Developers already build themed slot games around movies, music, mythology, and cultural traditions. Motorsports provide a similar foundation of recognizable imagery and storytelling potential. A motorsports live slot could incorporate race-inspired graphics, team branding, and interactive bonus features tied to racing moments.

Fan enthusiasm continues to support the sport across television, video games, and mobile platforms. As live slot technology continues to evolve, the racing world presents a compelling theme that could deliver a high-energy gaming experience. Motorsports already thrives in the digital entertainment ecosystem, and live slots could become another avenue for the sport to reach new audiences.

FIRST MISSION #2FAST2TASTY MATCHUPS OF 2026 SET FOR NHRA’S RETURN TO FIREBIRD MOTORSPORTS PARK

By
Official Release
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PHOENIX (March 16, 2026) – Bonus racing is back starting this weekend at Firebird Motorsports Park, as the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge returns as part of this weekend’s 41st annual FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs.

The unique challenge again brings competitive racing to Saturday qualifying, offering the semifinalists from the previous race – the season-opening Gatornationals, in this instance – the chance at a rematch, a bonus purse and bonus points for the Countdown to the Championship playoffs.

Now in its fourth year, the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge starts in Phoenix and takes place at 13 regular-season events in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. It adds a thrilling layer to both rounds of qualifying on Saturday.

This weekend’s Challenge will see a pair of drivers making their debut in the bonus race, as Top Fuel rookie Maddi Gordon advanced to the semifinals in her first race, while Jordan Vandergriff did the same in his Funny Car debut for John Force Racing.

Coming off a standout performance and win in Gainesville in his first race with John Force Racing, Top Fuel points leader Josh Hart will try to win this bonus race for the first time in his career. The rest of the field in all three classes (Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock) is loaded with talent who have enjoyed plenty of Saturday success in recent seasons.

Hart will take on Right Trailer Top Fuel All-Star Callout winner Antron Brown in a Saturday rematch, while Gordon gets reigning world champion and Gainesville runner-up Doug Kalitta, who was lethal during the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge a year ago. He won the overall title and picked up five wins in the bonus race.

In Funny Car, Chad Green will look to keep rolling after his second straight Gatornationals win, squaring off with Vandergriff in a semifinal rematch from the opener. The other matchup features a pair of drivers who have won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in Phoenix, as J.R. Todd, who took the bonus race in 2024, will race against John Force Racing’s Alexis DeJoria, who won the first-ever Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in 2023 in Phoenix.

The Pro Stock trio of reigning world champ Dallas Glenn, Greg Anderson and Matt Hartford combined for eight bonus wins a year ago, including in Phoenix, where area native Hartford beat Anderson in the finals on Saturday. All three are back in the specialty event on Saturday, but six-time world champ Erica Enders has plans of her own.

She’ll face off with Anderson in yet another rematch of one of the sport’s biggest rivalries, while Hartford and Glenn will also tussle, as Hartford looks to keep rolling after winning in Gainesville for the first time to open 2026.

The “Duel in the Desert” will feature earlier start times this year due to the pending heat, but the action will remain memorable as all the stars look to shine during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season.

A 75th anniversary Diamond Wally trophy is on the line this weekend in Phoenix, while fans can expect multiple highlights at Firebird Motorsports Park, including:

  • An appearance from NHRA legend and four-time world champion Don Prudhomme, as well as Charlie Allen and Jon Lundberg.
  • Prudhomme’s iconic career and legacy in NHRA Drag Racing will be celebrated throughout the weekend as the race’s historic moment, a theme that will take place at all races in 2026. Prudhomme will be featured on the unique commemorative ticket for the race. Fans can scan the onsite signs at the track to purchase the commemorative ticket, which will be available for purchase online all season and will be distinctive to each event.
  • On Friday, a free, limited-edition rally towel will be given to the first 3,000 fans in attendance to take in two rounds of pro qualifying.
  • A new-look Nitro Mall and special 75th anniversary displays.

Last season, Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Paul Lee (Funny Car), and Anderson (Pro Stock) each earned wins in Phoenix. This year’s race will be broadcast on FS1, with elimination coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 22.

Friday qualifying will begin at 9:30 a.m. local time on Friday with Pro Stock, followed by Funny Car and Top Fuel. The second session is slated to start at 12 p.m. On Saturday, Top Fuel will open the day at 10 a.m., followed by Funny Car and Pro Stock. The final qualifying session is scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. with Top Fuel.

Sunday eliminations will be bumped an hour earlier as well, with the first round of eliminations slated for 10 a.m. local time.

Gates will open at 7 a.m. Friday through Sunday, with action in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series to begin at 7:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 8 a.m. on Sunday.

Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 p.m. ET. on Friday and 12 p.m. on Sunday, leading into eliminations at 6:30 p.m. ET.

To purchase tickets to the FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com.

Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge Matchups at the 41st annual FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs at Firebird Motorsports Park:

TOP FUEL

Antron Brown vs. Josh Hart (Hart won in Gainesville)
Maddi Gordon vs. Doug Kalitta (Kalitta won in Gainesville)

FUNNY CAR

Chad Green vs. Jordan Vandergriff (Green won in Gainesville)
J.R. Todd vs. Alexis DeJoria (DeJoria won in Gainesville)

PRO STOCK

Greg Anderson vs. Erica Enders (Anderson won in Gainesville)
Dallas Glenn vs. Matt Hartford (Hartford won in Gainesville)

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 NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ 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.

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