Home Blog Page 34

Toyota Welcomes NASCAR and American Automotive Innovation to Fuji Speedway

Oyama, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan (November 12, 2025) – Toyota is proud to welcome a new era of global motorsports collaboration as U.S. drivers participate in the Super Taikyu Series for a landmark exhibition event at Fuji Speedway on November 16, 2025, featuring a demonstration run of six NASCAR stock cars and the debut of the new “ST-USA” class in the Super Taikyu Series.

These iconic NASCAR stock cars, including seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson in the 2023 Hendrick Motorsports Garage 56 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 owned by NASCAR Hall of Famer Rick Hendrick, will showcase American performance vehicles on the Japanese endurance racing stage. Johnson, now owner of Toyota team LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, will be joined on the track by his driver John Hunter Nemechek, behind the wheel of his No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE. Toyota GAZOO Racing driver Kamui Kobayashi will participate in the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE, prepared by 23XI Racing, which he previously campaigned in two NASCAR Cup Series races. Fast Track Racing will also field race cars for the exhibition driven by Toyota GAZOO Racing drivers Oyu Toshiki and Kotaka Kazuto, along with ARCA series driver, Takuma Koga.

The “ST-USA” class will officially welcome American sports cars like the Callaway Corvette C7 GT3-R and Ford Mustang Dark Horse R, enhancing the series’ diversity and international appeal. Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, also Chairman of the Super Taikyu Mirai Organization, supports this global motorsport collaboration aimed at fostering innovation and cultural exchange between Japan and the U.S.

The Super Taikyu Series, Japan’s premier endurance racing championship since 1991, serves as a platform for production-based vehicles and new technologies, including Toyota’s hydrogen-powered GR Corolla H2 Concept. This event highlights Toyota’s commitment to sustainable motorsport and cross-industry partnerships.

Fans worldwide can watch the NASCAR demonstration and Super Taikyu finale via official broadcasts and digital platforms, marking a historic moment in uniting Japanese and American racing cultures.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs nearly 64,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 49 million cars and trucks at our 14 manufacturing plants. In 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina began to assemble automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.

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

NASCAR Announces 2026 Season Start Times and Networks for All National Series

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (November 12, 2025) – NASCAR today released official start times and networks for the 2026 season for its three national series.

FOX kicks off the NASCAR Cup Series season at Bowman Gray Stadium (Sunday, Feb. 1, 8 p.m. ET). Its first FS1 events are DAYTONA 500 Qualifying (Wednesday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. ET) and the DAYTONA Duel (Thursday, Feb. 12, 7 p.m. ET) that set the field for the DAYTONA 500 on FOX (Sunday, Feb. 15, 2:30 p.m. ET).

New additions to the FOX slate include Watkins Glen International (Sunday, May 10, 3 p.m. ET on FS1) and the first NASCAR All-Star Race at Dover (Sunday, May 17, 3 p.m. ET on FS1). Races on FOX include: EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta (Sunday, Feb. 22, 3 p.m. ET), Circuit of the Americas (Sunday, March 1, 3:30 p.m. ET), Kansas Speedway (Sunday, April 19, 2 p.m. ET) and Talladega Superspeedway (Sunday, April 26, 3 p.m. ET).

Prime Video opens its second NASCAR season at Charlotte Motor Speedway (Sunday, May 24, 6 p.m. ET). It returns to Nashville Superspeedway (Sunday, May 31, 7 p.m. ET), Michigan International Speedway (Sunday, June 7, 3 p.m. ET) and Pocono Raceway (Sunday, June 14, 3 p.m. ET). Prime Video concludes its portion of the schedule with the new street-course event in San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado (Sunday, June 21, 4 p.m. ET).

TNT Sports takes the reins at Sonoma Raceway (Sunday, June 28, 3:30 p.m. ET), kicking off the second In-Season Challenge before the NASCAR Cup Series returns to Chicagoland Speedway (Sunday, July 5, 6 p.m. ET) for the first time since 2019. TNT will also head back to EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta (Sunday, July 12, 7 p.m. ET), broadcast the first points-paying event at North Wilkesboro Speedway (Sunday, July 19, 7 p.m. ET) since 1996, and travel to Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Sunday, July 26, 2 p.m. ET).

USA Sports will close out the season, airing the final 14 races across USA Network, NBC and Peacock, starting with Iowa Speedway on USA Network (Sunday, Aug. 9, 3:30 p.m. ET). After the regular season finale at DAYTONA International Speedway (Saturday, August 29, 7:30 p.m. ET) on NBC and Peacock, USA Sports is home to the entire NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs and will conclude the season on NBC and Peacock with Talladega Superspeedway (Sunday, Oct. 25, 2 p.m. ET), Martinsville Speedway (Sunday, Nov. 1, 2 p.m. ET), and the return of the NASCAR Championship to Homestead-Miami Speedway (Sunday, Nov. 8 at 3 p.m.) for the first time since 2019.

The CW Network returns following a historic first season as the exclusive destination for the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at DAYTONA International Speedway (Saturday, Feb. 14, 5 p.m. ET). Highlights of the 33-race slate include the return to Rockingham Speedway over Easter weekend (Saturday, April 4, 2:30 p.m. ET), San Diego (Saturday, June 20, 5 p.m. ET) and the championship at Homestead-Miami Speedway (Sunday, Nov. 7, 5 p.m. ET).

FOX Sports remains the home of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and will broadcast 23 races on FS1. Two additional races will air on FOX, including the inaugural Grand Prix at St. Petersburg (Saturday, Feb. 28, 12 p.m. ET) and the Charlotte ROVAL Playoff race (Friday, Oct. 9, 5 p.m. ET).

Announced previously, FOX will air all 20 ARCA Menards Series races between FOX, FS1 and FS2, beginning with the season opener at DAYTONA International Speedway (Saturday, Feb. 14 at 12 p.m. ET on FOX).

*Playoffs Races In Bold

NASCAR Cup Series

DATERACEPLATFORMSTART (ET)
Sun, Feb 1Clash (Bowman Gray Stadium)FOX8:00 PM
Thu, Feb 12Daytona – DuelFS17:00 PM
Sun, Feb 15DAYTONA 500FOX2:30 PM
Sun, Feb 22EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta)FOX3:00 PM
Sun, Mar 1Circuit of the Americas (Austin)FOX3:30 PM
Sun, Mar 8Phoenix RacewayFS13:30 PM
Sun, Mar 15Las Vegas Motor SpeedwayFS14:00 PM
Sun, Mar 22Darlington RacewayFS13:00 PM
Sun, Mar 29Martinsville SpeedwayFS13:30 PM
Sun, Apr 12Bristol Motor SpeedwayFS13:00 PM
Sun, Apr 19Kansas SpeedwayFOX2:00 PM
Sun, Apr 26Talladega SuperspeedwayFOX3:00 PM
Sun, May 3Texas Motor SpeedwayFS13:30 PM
Sun, May 10Watkins Glen InternationalFS13:00 PM
Sun, May 17All Star (Dover Motor Speedway)FS13:00 PM
Sun, May 24Charlotte Motor SpeedwayPrime6:00 PM
Sun, May 31Nashville SuperspeedwayPrime7:00 PM
Sun, Jun 7Michigan International SpeedwayPrime3:00 PM
Sun, Jun 14Pocono RacewayPrime3:00 PM
Sun, Jun 21San Diego (Naval Base Coronado)Prime4:00 PM
Sun, Jun 28Sonoma RacewayTNT3:30 PM
Sun, Jul 5Chicagoland SpeedwayTNT6:00 PM
Sun, Jul 12EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta)TNT7:00 PM
Sun, Jul 19North Wilkesboro SpeedwayTNT7:00 PM
Sun, Jul 26Indianapolis Motor SpeedwayTNT2:00 PM
Sun, Aug 9Iowa SpeedwayUSA3:30 PM
Sat, Aug 15Richmond RacewayUSA7:00 PM
Sun, Aug 23New Hampshire Motor SpeedwayUSA3:00 PM
Sat, Aug 29Daytona International SpeedwayNBC7:30 PM
Sun, Sep 6Darlington RacewayUSA5:00 PM
Sun, Sep 13World Wide Technology Raceway (St. Louis)USA3:00 PM
Sat, Sep 19Bristol Motor SpeedwayUSA7:30 PM
Sun, Sep 27Kansas SpeedwayUSA3:00 PM
Sun, Oct 4Las Vegas Motor SpeedwayUSA5:30 PM
Sun, Oct 11Charlotte ROVALUSA3:00 PM
Sun, Oct 18Phoenix RacewayUSA3:00 PM
Sun, Oct 25Talladega SuperspeedwayNBC2:00 PM
Sun, Nov 1Martinsville SpeedwayNBC2:00 PM
Sun, Nov 8NASCAR Championship (Homestead-Miami Speedway)NBC3:00 PM

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

DATERACEPLATFORMSTART (ET)
Sat, Feb 14Daytona International SpeedwayCW5:00 PM
Sat, Feb 21EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta)CW5:00 PM
Sat, Feb 28Circuit of the Americas (Austin)CW3:00 PM
Sat, Mar 7Phoenix RacewayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Mar 14Las Vegas Motor SpeedwayCW5:30 PM
Sat, Mar 21Darlington RacewayCW5:30 PM
Sat, Mar 28Martinsville SpeedwayCW3:30 PM
Sat, Apr 4Rockingham SpeedwayCW2:30 PM
Sat, Apr 11Bristol Motor SpeedwayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Apr 18Kansas SpeedwayCW7:00 PM
Sat, Apr 25Talladega SuperspeedwayCW4:00 PM
Sat, May 2Texas Motor SpeedwayCW3:30 PM
Sat, May 9Watkins Glen InternationalCW4:00 PM
Sat, May 16Dover Motor SpeedwayCW4:00 PM
Sat, May 23Charlotte Motor SpeedwayCW5:00 PM
Sat, May 30Nashville SuperspeedwayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Jun 13Pocono RacewayCW4:00 PM
Sat, Jun 20San Diego (Naval Base Coronado)CW5:00 PM
Sat, Jun 27Sonoma RacewayCW5:30 PM
Sat, Jul 4Chicagoland SpeedwayCW5:30 PM
Sat, Jul 11EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta)CW7:00 PM
Sat, Jul 25Indianapolis Motor SpeedwayCW4:00 PM
Sat, Aug 8Iowa SpeedwayCW5:00 PM
Fri, Aug 28Daytona International SpeedwayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Sep 5Darlington RacewayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Sep 12World Wide Technology Raceway (St. Louis)CW7:30 PM
Fri, Sep 18Bristol Motor SpeedwayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Oct 3Las Vegas Motor SpeedwayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Oct 10Charlotte ROVALCW4:00 PM
Sat, Oct 17Phoenix RacewayCW7:30 PM
Sat, Oct 24Talladega SuperspeedwayCW3:30 PM
Sat, Oct 31Martinsville SpeedwayCW4:00 PM
Sat, Nov 7(NASCAR Championship) Homestead-Miami SpeedwayCW5:00 PM

NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series

DATERACEPLATFORMSTART (ET)
Fri, Feb 13Daytona International SpeedwayFS17:30 PM
Sat, Feb 21EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta)FS11:30 PM
Sat, Feb 28Grand Prix of St. PetersburgFOX12:00 PM
Fri, Mar 20Darlington RacewayFS17:30 PM
Fri, Apr 3Rockingham SpeedwayFS14:30 PM
Fri, Apr 10Bristol Motor SpeedwayFS17:30 PM
Fri, May 1Texas Motor SpeedwayFS18:00 PM
Fri, May 8Watkins Glen InternationalFS14:30 PM
Fri, May 15Dover Motor SpeedwayFS15:00 PM
Fri, May 22Charlotte Motor SpeedwayFS17:30 PM
Fri, May 29Nashville SuperspeedwayFS18:00 PM
Sat, Jun 6Michigan International SpeedwayFS11:30 PM
Fri, Jun 19San Diego (Naval Base Coronado)FS17:00 PM
Sat, Jul 11Lime Rock ParkFS11:00 PM
Sat, Jul 18North Wilkesboro SpeedwayFS112:30 PM
Fri, Jul 24Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway ParkFS18:00 PM
Fri, Aug 14Richmond RacewayFS17:30 PM
Sat, Aug 22New Hampshire Motor SpeedwayFS11:30 PM
Thu, Sep 17Bristol Motor SpeedwayFS18:00 PM
Sat, Sep 26Kansas SpeedwayFS11:00 PM
Fri, Oct 9Charlotte ROVALFOX5:00 PM
Fri, Oct 16Phoenix RacewayFS17:30 PM
Fri, Oct 23Talladega SuperspeedwayFS14:00 PM
Fri, Oct 30Martinsville SpeedwayFS16:00 PM
Fri, Nov 6(NASCAR Championship) Homestead-Miami SpeedwayFS17:30 PM

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.

Toyota GAZOO Racing Weekly Preview 11.12.25

This Week in Motorsports: November 10 – 16, 2025

NHRA: In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip – Nov. 14-16

PLANO, Texas (Nov. 12, 2025) – The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series concludes its season this weekend at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California, offering one last chance for Team Toyota drivers to capture a Wally Trophy in 2025.

NHRA – Top Fuel/Funny Car

Kalitta to clinch Top Fuel title … Once qualifying is completed this weekend at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, Doug Kalitta will capture his second career Top Fuel world championship and second in the last three seasons, coupling his title in 2023. The Kalitta Motorsports driver enters the weekend 144 points above teammate Shawn Langdon in the category points standings, simply needing to make a qualifying attempt for this weekend’s national event to clinch the title. Kalitta’s 2025 season to-date has been storybook, with four victories (Sonoma, Brainerd, St. Louis and Ennis), eight No. 1 qualifiers and 39 round wins.

Brown looks for Pomona fall repeat … Defending Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown is back at the fall Pomona race seeking a repeat victory to end the 2025 season. Brown powered his Toyota Top Fuel Dragster to the win in last year’s event to clinch his fourth career world title and capture his sixth Wally Trophy of that season. A win for Brown would also bookend the 2025 Top Fuel season as he was victorious in the season opener at Gainesville Raceway in March.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

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

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

Collars & Co. Becomes Official Apparel Partner of LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, Welcomes Jimmie Johnson as Brand Ambassador

Bethesda, MD – [November 12, 2025] — Collars & Co., the Shark Tank-backed menswear brand redefining men’s apparel, today announced NASCAR icon Jimmie Johnson as its newest brand ambassador. Known for his record-tying seven NASCAR Cup Series championships and enduring commitment to performance and precision, Johnson embodies the Collars & Co. ethos: Elevated style that moves with you.
As part of his new role, Johnson will appear in upcoming marketing campaigns and special collaborations highlighting the versatility of Collars & Co.’s signature line of men’s apparel. The partnership underscores Collars & Co.’s continued momentum as one of the fastest-growing names in men’s fashion, blending performance, confidence, and timeless design.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Jimmie to the Collars & Co. family,” said Justin Baer, Founder and CEO of Collars & Co. “Jimmie’s discipline, drive, and effortless sense of style perfectly reflect the spirit of our brand. He’s a proven leader both on and off the track, and we’re proud to have him represent Collars & Co. as we continue to redefine modern menswear.”

As part of the partnership, Collars & Co. will also serve as the official apparel partner of LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, the premier auto racing organization owned by Jimmie Johnson.

“I’ve always believed in the importance of looking sharp without sacrificing comfort,” said Jimmie Johnson. “Collars & Co. has mastered that balance. Whether I’m at the track, in a meeting, or spending time with family, their clothing delivers the perfect combination of style and ease. I’m proud to be part of a brand that values innovation and authenticity and also have them outfit LEGACY MOTOR CLUB.”

The announcement follows a series of high-profile collaborations and rapid expansion for Collars & Co. The brand has also partnered with notable figures including golf legend Sir Nick Faldo, sports commentator Joe Buck, former professional football player Tiki Barber, and three-time pro bowler and NFL analyst Greg Olsen. Collars & Co. is also the official licensee and performance dress shirt of the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team.

ABOUT COLLARS & CO.
Collars & Co. is revolutionizing menswear by combining timeless sophistication with modern comfort. Known for its signature Dress Collar Polo™, the brand creates versatile, high-performance apparel that transitions effortlessly from casual to professional settings. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and style, Collars & Co. has redefined the way men dress, offering an elevated look without sacrificing ease. Worn by professionals and trendsetters alike, Collars & Co. continues to lead the way in smart, stylish everyday wear. Visit Collars & Co. stores in Boca Raton, FL; Chicago, IL; King of Prussia, PA; and holiday pop-up stores in Rockville, MD; Dallas, TX and Calabasas, CA or online at www.collarsandco.com.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB (LEGACY MC) is a premier auto racing organization owned by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmie Johnson and Knighthead Capital Management, LLC. Drawing from a rich tradition of success, LEGACY MC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and setting new standards of excellence. The CLUB competes under the Toyota Gazoo Racing banner in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE piloted by Erik Jones and the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE driven by John Hunter Nemechek. Johnson also races on a limited basis in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. With NASCAR legend and Hall of Famer Richard Petty, “The King”, serving as CLUB Ambassador, LEGACY MC blends timeless racing traditions with a new forward-thinking vision. As an inclusive community for motorsport enthusiasts, LEGACY MC honors both its storied past and the promising future of its members, always striving for victory and championship glory at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition.

Aitken joins Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA

Addition of GTP champion to returning WEC roster reflects strength in continuity

DETROIT (November 12, 2025) – Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA announced today its 2026 driver roster highlighting continuity with an influx of additional Hypercar/Grand Touring Prototype experience for the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season.

Following a successful eight-race campaign that included Cadillac Racing’s maiden WEC victory and three poles, the first year works team will look to challenge for victories in the new season with its talented driver lineup and seasoned crew.

Alex Lynn, Norman Nato and Will Stevens, who combined to score points in every race and place fifth in the Hypercar Drivers’ Championship, return to the No. 12 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R powered by the purpose-built Cadillac 5.5-liter DOHC V8 engine.

IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTP endurance champion Jack Aitken will join returning drivers Earl Bamber and Sebastien Bourdais in the No. 38 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R, succeeding 2009 FIA Formula 1Ⓡ World Champion Jenson Button, who will step away from professional motorsports competition after two years with the team.

“We’re delighted to welcome Jack on board,” JOTA Sport director and founder David Clark said. “We’ve been following his progress closely this year and have been really impressed by his raw pace and consistency — both essential ingredients for success in the Hypercar category.

“As an existing member of the wider Cadillac Racing driver family, Jack is a natural fit for us. He already understands the culture, the people, and the expectations within the Cadillac ecosystem.

“I’m excited to start the year and to double up on my time in the Cadillac V-Series.R.”

“Beyond his performance on track, Jack’s calm personality and team-first attitude make him an excellent addition to our driver lineup. We never take team chemistry for granted — six individual stars won’t win endurance races, but six drivers who work as one can. Everything we’ve seen from Jack so far shows he embodies that spirit, and we can’t wait to see what he achieves with the team next season.”

Aitken, 30, has registered three victories and two pole starts in 22 IMSA races. He recently completed his second full season with Action Express Racing, teaming with Bamber and 2023 FIA Formula 2 vice-champion Frederik Vesti to win the final two races, after contesting the four endurance races in 2023.

Aitken, who drove a Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA Hypercar in the WEC Rookie Test on November 9 at the Bahrain International Circuit, finished second this year in the IMSA Drivers Championship and second in the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Drivers Championship with Bamber and Vesti. He earned the 2023 IMEC championship.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Jack Aitken to our 2026 WEC Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA driver lineup. Jack brings exceptional speed, technical insight, and a fierce competitive spirit that perfectly complements the team,” Cadillac Racing program manager Keely Bosn said. “Our 2026 roster truly reflects the strength in continuity. With drivers competing across both IMSA and WEC, we’re building a unified program that drives shared performance and development. I’m genuinely excited about the depth, talent, and energy this lineup brings to the season ahead.”

Aitken, who has driven an Action Express Racing-prepared Cadillac V-Series.R Hypercar the past three years in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, set the Hypercar circuit qualifying lap record of 3 minutes, 22.742 seconds in Hyperpole 1 in June. He also competed in DTM with Emil Frey Racing the past three years, collecting six victories.

“I am very appreciative that Cadillac has that trust and are willing to give me the opportunity. It’s very exciting for me personally because I’ve never raced in the WEC and I’ve never raced with JOTA, even though we’ve come close a couple of times and have had a relationship that is now coming to fruition. They have fantastic people – from the drivers to the staff – and it’s a team that has had success in WEC. I’m excited to try to take what I’ve learned in IMSA at Action Express and bring that across to try to push things forward. I’m excited to start the year and to double up on my time in the Cadillac V-Series.R.”

Aitken and Bamber were recently confirmed as returning to Action Express Racing for the 2026 IMSA season. Stevens will contest three IMSA endurance races with Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing.

In its third WEC season, Cadillac finished fourth in the Hypercar Manufacturers’ Championship. Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA recorded the victory and first 1-2 finish in July at Interlagos in Brazil along with three front row qualifying lockouts, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans to become the first U.S. manufacturer since 1967 to score the pole.

The No. 38 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R of Bamber, Bourdais and Button posted three front row starting spots and a runner-up finish to the sister car at Interlagos among four top-10 finishes.

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

ELITE COMPANY ON THE LINE FOR FUNNY CAR’S AUSTIN PROCK & MATT HAGAN AT IN-N-OUT BURGER NHRA FINALS

POMONA, Calif. (Nov. 11, 2025) – For a third straight season, either Austin Prock or Matt Hagan will end up with the Funny Car world championship at this weekend’s 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip.

Both are chasing elite territory, as Prock has a chance for back-to-back world championships, while Hagan is after a fifth world title in the loaded Funny Car ranks. A fifth championship would put Hagan with the legendary John Force as the only drivers to win five or more Funny Car titles, while Prock will try to become just the seventh driver in Funny Car history to win back-to-back championships and only the second in the last 23 years.

Prock enters the points-and-a-half weekend with a 101-point lead over Hagan, putting him in an ideal position entering the finale. Should he qualify well and win the opening round, the championship is his, which would cap off an incredible two-year run that has included 17 wins thus far (nine this year) and 22 No. 1 qualifiers in his 12,000-horsepower Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS.

“It would be huge and it would put me in a pretty elite group of NHRA drivers to win back-to-back championships,” Prock said. “That’s a pretty huge accolade that would really boost my career. But it’s every guy on this team. Every guy but one is the same as last year, so to add that to their résumé would be unbelievable. I’m really proud of the team and the fact that we are even in the talk of becoming two-time world champs is pretty incredible. I thought a lot last week in Las Vegas that this pressure you feel when you’re racing for these championships, it’s a privilege.”

Last season, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) won the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals while Brown, Prock (Funny Car), Anderson and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) each secured world titles. The 2025 race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations coverage starting at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 16.

It is the last of six races in the Countdown to the Championship and 20 races in the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. It’s been a rewarding one for Hagan, who has enjoyed a strong playoff run with first-year crew chief Mike Knudsen.

He’s won twice, including the most recent race in Las Vegas, giving the Tony Stewart Racing standout a fighting chance in Pomona in his 12,000-horsepower Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Hellcat. Hagan has won seven times in Pomona – second only to Force’s 17 in Funny Car – and another one would at least make things interesting at the finale.

“Having an opportunity to win the world championship in Pomona is huge,” Hagan said. “We’ve been second in points for a lot of the Countdown and that’s been really impressive. It’s great that we’ve been able to win three races this year.

“To be in contention for a fifth Funny Car world championship is huge. All we can do is show up and try to win the race and hope for the best. To have a shot at it and know it’s points-and-a-half at Pomona is exciting. We can’t ask for much more. We have a lot of growing left to do, but it’s been a very promising season.”

Both will be challenged by another loaded Funny Car field, as 21 cars are entered to compete on the legendary grounds at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip. Prock and Hagan will have to face off against the likes of Ron Capps, Jack Beckman, who won in the spring, Paul Lee, Daniel Wilkerson and Cruz Pedregon.

Prock, though, feels ready and is eager to try and finish the job following his runner-up finish in Las Vegas.

“All we can do is just keep moving forward,” Prock said. “Matt Hagan’s team did an outstanding job (in Vegas). I had a gut feeling rolling in there that morning that we were going to have to go to the finals because Hagan was going to the finals and it worked out just how I thought it would; we just came up short. That was just one of those runs that just wasn’t meant to be. I feel like if we could drag it back up there, it would go right down the racetrack, so I don’t think we need to change our approach or anything.”

Top Fuel’s Doug Kalitta will close out a second title in three years during qualifying, while the event marks the final race for Top Fuel star Brittany Force, who won in Vegas. Others to watch include Tony Stewart, Shawn Langdon and Justin Ashley.

Pro Stock’s Dallas Glenn won in Vegas, extending his lead to a commanding 92 points over teammate and reigning world champ Anderson. Glenn is after his first world title.

Pro Stock Motorcycle teammates Richard Gadson and Gaige Herrera are separated by only 21 points, as points leader Gadson attempts to close out his first championship.

Race fans will also see action in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, featuring some of the world’s best drivers, along with the Summit Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout and the LASD Racing exhibition.

This year’s In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals also features a can’t-miss experience for racing and car enthusiasts alike. The Top Eliminator Club offers the best seats in the house, a premium experience and several exclusive benefits at one of the biggest races of the season, including a members-only hospitality center, complimentary food and beverages, members-only souvenir store, exclusive driver appearances, a gift bag, a premium view of the staging lanes and much more.

In Pomona, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will feature two qualifying rounds at 12:30 and 3 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 14, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Nov. 15 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, Nov. 16. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 a.m. ET on Sunday and then eliminations on FS1 at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.

To purchase tickets to the 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, 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, 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.

After Ventura Win, Jeff Dyer Heads North to Placerville for the BCRA Hangtown 100

Five winner stickers from American Racer tell of Jeff Dyer's succesful season. DMS Photo

Yucca Valley, CA — November 11, 2025 — Fresh off his latest triumph of the season at Ventura Raceway, California Highway Patrol officer and racer Jeff Dyer is heading north this weekend to tackle the annual Hangtown 100 at Placerville Speedway. Weather permitting, the action is set for Friday and Saturday night at the famed red-clay quarter-mile.

Dyer’s Ventura victory was his third California Lightning Sprint (CLS) win of 2025—two of those coming at Ventura and one at Bakersfield—placing him second overall in CLS wins this season. Add in his two SoCal Lightning Sprint Series victories at Barona, and Dyer stands as Southern California’s winningest Lightning Sprint driver of 2025.

At Ventura last month, Dyer qualified second fastest and finished third in his heat, one spot behind teammate Drake Cardey. Starting from the pole in the main, Dyer dominated every lap around the beachside oval.

“We had a pretty good car,” Dyer said after collecting his second Ventura win of the year. “The track was a little narrow, but you could move around. I’ve had a bad back all week and almost didn’t come—but I’m glad I did. I made a few mistakes, but Bobby wasn’t close enough to capitalize. It got interesting in lapped traffic, but we got through it and got the win.”

Cardey, who qualified fourth and finished third in the main, enters the Bakersfield finale just 52 points out of first place. He also sits on the verge of clinching “Rookie of the Year” honors, needing only to take the green flag in a heat race to secure the title.

This weekend’s appearance will mark Dyer’s first return to Placerville since August 2022, when he finished 17th. His best performance at the historic track came in 2021, when he placed fifth on Night #1 of the Hangtown 100.

The weekend’s races will be Dyer’s 31st and 32nd starts of 2025, with just one event remaining after this weekend—the CLS season finale on the Bakersfield Speedway at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway on November 25th.

If Friday’s event is rained out, ticket refunds will be issued. Please note that tickets are reserved and cannot be transferred to Saturday’s show.

Fans and teams are encouraged to follow official social media channels for the latest updates and weather-related announcements.

Two-night ticket packages and single night tickets are available by visiting https://www.eventsprout.com/event/psr111425

or by purchasing at the gate on race day. Plenty of pit passes will also be available to take advantage of the extra seating in the pit area.

Cardey’s California Lightning Sprint Car is sponsored by Eibach Springs, Cardey Construction, Inland Rigging, Jake Swanson Shock Technology, Last Lap Insider, and Dylan Godeniz Motorsports.

In 2025, the following marketing partners will help keep Dyer on track. Straight Time Stirrups, Haircuts By Susie, Jobu Racing, Justice Brothers, Fonseca Racing, Specialty Fasteners, and Blud Racing Lubricants. If you would like to be a part of Dyer Motorsports in 2024, call (760) 550-7237 or send an email to mailto:dyermotorsports4@gmail.com.

Jeff is racing in memory of his grandparents, Glenn, and Beverly Sels, throughout the 2025 season.

Jeff Dyer’s 2025 Race Results

2/22/25 Mohave Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 14th B Main
3/1/25 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 23rd A Main
3/14/25 Imperial Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars DNS
3/14/25 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 5th A Main
3/15/25 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 9th A Main
4/5/25 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars DNS
4/12/25 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints DNS
5/3/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 6th A Main
5/10/25 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 1st A Main
5/17/25 Merced Speedway California Lightning Sprints 4th A Main
6/7/25 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 1st A Main
6/7/25 Bakersfield Speedway Ultimate Sprint Car Series 14th B Main
6/21/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 4th A Main
7/5/25 Santa Maria Raceway California Lightning Sprints DNS
7/5/25 Santa Maria Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 11th A Main

7/19/25 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars DNS

8/1/25 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 4th Main

8/2/25 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 1st A Main

8/16/25 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars DNS

8/22/25 Plaza Park Raceway California Lightning Sprints 9th A Main

8/23/25 Lemoore Jet Bowl California Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

8/30/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 1st A Main

9/12/25 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

9/13/25 Merced Speedway California Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

9/13/25 Merced Speedway USAC Western Midgets 8th A Main

9/27/25 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 16th A Main

10/4/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 3rd A Main
10/11/25 Barona Speedway So Cal Lightning Sprints 3rd A Main

10/18/25 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 21st A Main

10/25/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprint Cars 1ST A Main

Drake Cardey’s 2025 Race Results

3/14/25 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 4th A Main
3/15/25 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 8th A Main
4/12/25 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 10th A Main
5/3/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main
5/17/25 Merced Speedway California Lightning Sprints 12th A Main
6/7/25 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 8th A Main
6/21/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 11th A Main
7/5/25 Santa Maria Raceway California Lightning Sprints 7th A Main
7/8/25 Sweet Springs Complex 600cc Non Wing Micros 5th A Main
7/9/25 Mitchell County Fairgrounds 600cc Non Wing Micros 6th A Main
7/10/25 Jefferson County Speedway 600cc Non Wing Micros 7th A Main
7/11/25 Jefferson County Speedway 600cc Non Wing Micros 21st A Main

7/26/25 Santa Maria Speedway California Lightning Sprints 9th A Main

8/1/25 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 20th A Main

8/2/25 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 21st A Main

8/9/25 Santa Maria Speedway USAC Western Midgets 9th A Main

8/22/25 Plaza Park Raceway California Lightning Sprints 3rd A Main

8/23/25 Lemoore Jet Bowl California Lightning Sprint 8th A Main

8/30/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 3rd A Main

9/12/25 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 5th A Main
9/13/25 Merced Speedway California Lightning Sprints 5th A Main

10/4/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 5th A Main

10/11/25 Merced Speedway USAC Western Midgets 15th A Main

10/25/25 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 1 A Main

Could 2026 Have Been a Year of World Cups for the USA?

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

2026 is going to be a defining year for sport in North America. The soccer World Cup is being jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the USA. This means that all three nations will be represented at the tournament, with hosts granted automatic qualification. It will surely be a spectacle, especially after the USA hosts the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.

However, there will be one 2026 World Cup that will have no American representation. That is, of course, at the Speedway World Cup in Poland. In fact, the States hasn’t had a representative team at the event since its return to the schedule in 2023. The USA is not participating in the Speedway of Nations, marking another barren year for the nation. 

This begs the question, why is the USA so far behind other speedway nations, and could this be a missed opportunity to take advantage of the fervor of World Cup days to promote both soccer and speedway? 

A Team Miles Behind Its Competitors on the World Stage

For a nation as large as the States with a real thirst for motorsports, it is somewhat shameful that there is no representative team at the largest events on the international calendar. Some of the other countries on the roster are significantly smaller – both geographically and in population size – and have other sports that they are more well known for. 

Take the UK as an example. They regularly qualify for the event and have been runners-up on three occasions, despite soccer, rugby, and cricket being their national sports. The two most successful teams are Poland and Denmark, respectively. They are two relatively small soccer-mad nations, and the USA cannot match them in achieving international-class status. 

What is even more frustrating for fans of US speedway is how far their country lags behind nations not usually favored for the title. Australia have won it twice, but those were the first two editions. They have yet to win it since 2002. However, in the speedway betting for 2026, they’re heavy favorites at – 120, ahead of both Denmark and Poland. 

Could Two World Cup Appearances Have Boosted US Sport? 

National representation at a premier international competition is a great way to introduce new fans to a sport and boost its popularity. We can take a look at Major League Soccer as an example. In 2001, the league was on the verge of collapse. Prior to the 2002 season, it was in $250 million of debt, and franchises were folding. 

The 2002 World Cup ended up being the United States’ greatest performance on the world stage. They made it to the quarterfinals, and the excitement of breaking into the last eight saw soccer experience a boom that almost singlehandedly saved the sport in the country. There wouldn’t be the MLS now if not for the team that travelled to Japan and South Korea. 

It did also help that there was a sense of injustice. The quarterfinal saw Germany progress despite an obvious goal-saving handball on the goalline. Had the US progressed, a final could have been on the horizon. Instead, the watching public was fueled by anger and began supporting local franchises, ultimately growing the sport into a genuine behemoth. 

Will the US Ever Return to the Speedway World Cup? 

If the country is serious about becoming a global powerhouse in sport, it will have to assess how to improve its performance in flagship events. Missing out on a World Cup when the nation is crazy about motorsports is unacceptable. While the MLS was saved mainly by reaction to relative success, it also took investment. 

The moneymen in charge need to look into targeted investment in domestic competition to build the nation’s representatives. If they can get the speedway team back on the podium, it could spell a period of success at home and abroad. It would be a welcome development for fans of the sport. 

Innovations Powering Racing Cars for Better Speed, Safety, and Sustainability

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

What comes to mind when you see or think of vehicles speeding on the track? Of course, it’s the spectacular thrill of speed and precision. But beyond these aspects, race cars display impressive use of tech innovations. Artificial intelligence, for instance, is turning heads in the game as a tool for gaining a competitive advantage. A Yahoo Sports report reveals that NASCAR teams, RFK Racing, and Hendrick Motorsports use AI to evaluate how drivers perform, provide strategic insights, and optimize productivity. Hendrick’s team, for example, has recorded improvements in its driver standings, with Kyle Larson and William Byron at the top after using AI-powered tools to analyze past data sets. Besides artificial intelligence, are there other technologies transforming motorsport? In pursuit of outstanding performance, safer competitions, and eco-friendly practices, racing vehicles continue to be a testing ground for tech innovation that shapes everyday driving. This post highlights some technological developments in high-performance vehicles and how they revolutionize speed, safety, and strategy. 

Hybrid Power Systems

Consumers, including race car enthusiasts, are concerned about global warming. So, what are motorsport organizations doing to support sustainability and ensure competitive on-track performance? As you know, racers depend on high speed to win, and that translates to more fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. To make car competitions green, engineers have developed hybrid power units and ERS (energy recovery systems). These powertrains combine the power of electric motors and internal combustion engines to make cars more efficient while emitting less carbon dioxide. The electric motors offer instant torque or quick acceleration. Plus, racers get a power boost, especially during overtakes and turning around corners. Hybrid power systems feature ERS and regenerative braking, which reduce energy wastage during braking or deceleration. They do so by converting kinetic energy into electrical energy, thereby reducing fuel consumption while producing more power. 

Electrification 

Electric racing- what was once thought of as futuristic is already here. Formula E, an all-electric car race series, for example, proves that it’s possible to have fully electric-powered vehicles compete and attract attention. Recently, Formula E launched its Gen 4 vehicle, with an astonishing power of 600kW. That’s over 800 horsepower compared to its previous Gen 3 Evo. To catch up with this tech, NASCAR and Formula One (F1) are shifting their focus to electric prototypes and hybrid systems, respectively. As electrification gains momentum, the focus is now on improving battery tech, faster charging infrastructure, and eco-conscious racing tactics. For racers, battery innovation means longer range, shorter charge times, and improved performance. Something else EVs on the race track have is advanced temperature management systems for powertrains and engines. Since electric racing is competitive, an essential cooling system is vital for extending the lifespan of electric components and sustaining performance. 

Light Materials 

Ever wondered how racing cars move faster, like they have zero weight? The secret lies in material innovation. Instead of relying on cast iron, traditional steel, and aluminum, which are heavy, engineers are embracing innovative, lightweight, and stronger options. Carbon-fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) are one example of advanced materials used in high-performance car manufacturing. You’ll spot this material in luxury models like F1, where it accounts for a larger share of body panels, suspension components, wings, and the monocoque chassis. While it’s very light, about 40% lighter than aluminum, carbon fiber is ten times stronger than steel.

Material innovation doesn’t stop at CFRP, there’s titanium and its alloys, which have low density but are strong. They also have a high resistance rate against corrosion and heat, making them ideal for chassis parts, valves, suspension springs, and other high-stress components. Another use of this metal, especially titanium wires is welding. Titanium cords come in small diameters, perfect for making welding rods. Plus, they’re resistant to corrosion and heat, non-magnetic, low weight, and strong, which allows engineers to weld in engines, valves, and suspensions in automobiles with ease. Other developments in automobile materials include fiberglass, aluminum alloys, metallic and polymeric foams, and polymer composites. 

AI for Data-Driven Performance

Every millisecond on the track counts. In a split second, a racer can win or lose, which makes strategic decision-making non-negotiable. Making smart decisions requires a thorough, timely evaluation of large volumes of data from cameras, car sensors, GPS telemetry, and track telemetry sensors. Doing this manually in real-time is difficult. Here’s where AI systems in motorsport become useful. They analyze large chunks of info in real time to provide insights on how to optimize fuel, when to change tires, detect opportunities to overtake, simulate driving tests, and predict maintenance. The exceptional accuracy of machine intelligence ensures racing teams move with precision and safety, guided by calculated speed and intelligence. For example, teams can use machine learning algorithms to analyze past setups to predict a race’s future outcomes. 

Innovation in motorsport isn’t an afterthought but a necessity to keep teams ahead of the game. Tech integration in racing cars optimizes performance, boosts speed, enhances safety, and supports greener competitions. The vehicles you see on race tracks feature a range of technologies. This includes AI and machine learning, electrified batteries, electric motors, and next-gen materials, such as carbon fiber polymers, titanium, and fiberglass. 

TOP FUEL CHAMP-TO-BE DOUG KALITTA IN CELEBRATORY MOOD AHEAD OF IN-N-OUT BURGER NHRA FINALS

POMONA, Calif. (Nov. 10, 2025) – With a celebration set and a world title all but decided, Top Fuel veteran Doug Kalitta heads to In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip this weekend with a far different feeling than he’s ever had for the 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals.

Years of anguish, near-misses and second-place finishes finally gave way to the elusive world championship in 2023, but even that came down to a thrilling and drama-filled winner-take-all final round against Leah Pruett.

This time around, it’s a far different feeling for Kalitta, who will clinch his second championship in three years this weekend. Once the 59-time event winner attempts a qualifying run and makes the field, the championship will be his, giving him a world title under far less stressful conditions once qualifying ends on Saturday.

It will still be a surreal moment for Kalitta, who has performed well in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs in his 12,000-horsepower Mac Tools dragster and now just needs to put the finishing touches on yet another banner year.

“It’s hard to believe that we managed to not drag it into the last round of the last race,” Kalitta said. “It feels really good. I’m definitely proud of my guys for making it all happen for sure. We just have to qualify this weekend so we can definitely manage that. It’s a huge relief. It means a lot to Connie (Team Owner Connie Kalitta), me and everybody at Kalitta Motorsports, and we’re very grateful.

“It’s gratifying – I always hoped I’d be able to tie my cousin (Scott Kalitta) with the number of championships he has, and there’s plenty of people who have won this twice. To be one of the guys that’s won it twice with Alan (Johnson) as the crew chief is really special for sure – that’s pretty cool.”

Last season, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) won the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals while Brown, Austin Prock (Funny Car), Anderson and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) each secured world titles. The 2025 race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations coverage starting at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 16.

It’s the sixth race of the playoffs and the 20th race of the season and Kalitta still has plans to end the season in style.

A 60th career win at the 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals would certainly be meaningful and special, closing out the year with a victory at the World Finals. It would give Kalitta five wins this season, and three in the playoffs, but a close second would be ensuring teammate Shawn Langdon finishes second in points.

He enters the weekend 19 points ahead of Justin Ashley for the second spot, with Brittany Force 58 points (or two rounds) back at the points-and-a-half race. It’s the final race for the record-breaking Force, who won the most recent race in Las Vegas and is retiring from full-time racing after competing this weekend at her home track.

Others to watch this weekend include Tony Stewart, Clay Millican, who won the spring race in Pomona, Shawn Reed and Brown. For Kalitta Motorsports, combining for eight wins and the top two spots in the standings would mark a job very well done in 2025.

“That would be the icing on the cake, for sure,” Kalitta said of winning in Pomona for the eighth time in his career. “Shawn’s car is plenty capable of outrunning those guys, and he’s obviously trying to secure second. We’re hopeful he can pull it off, but we want to win this race, too. He’ll hopefully have to go through us to get the win and I love running at Pomona. I’ve had great success there, and the pressure will be off. The only other thing to do is go out there and win this thing.”

In Funny Car, Prock enters the weekend with a 101-point lead over Vegas winner Matt Hagan. Prock is looking to sew up his second straight world championship.

Pro Stock’s Dallas Glenn won in Vegas, extending his lead to a commanding 92 points over teammate and reigning world champ Anderson. Glenn is after his first world title.

Pro Stock Motorcycle teammates Richard Gadson and Gaige Herrera are separated by only 21 points, as points leader Gadson attempts to close out his first championship.

Race fans will also see action in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, featuring some of the world’s best drivers, along with the Summit Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout and the LASD Racing exhibition.

This year’s In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals also features a can’t-miss experience for racing and car enthusiasts alike. The Top Eliminator Club offers the best seats in the house, a premium experience and several exclusive benefits at one of the biggest races of the season, including a members-only hospitality center, complimentary food and beverages, members-only souvenir store, exclusive driver appearances, a gift bag, a premium view of the staging lanes and much more.

In Pomona, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will feature two qualifying rounds at 12:30 and 3 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 14, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Nov. 15 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, Nov. 16. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 a.m. ET on Sunday and then eliminations on FS1 at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.

To purchase tickets to the 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, 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, 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.