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F-150 vs Other Pickup Trucks: What Makes the F-150 Stand Out?

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

Pickup trucks are more than just vehicles. They represent strength, reliability, and the ability to handle both work and play. Among the many options in the market, the Ford F-150 has built a reputation as a standout model. It has consistently led sales charts and won the trust of millions of drivers across the United States. If you are looking for an f 150 for sale Houston, you will quickly notice how this truck compares to others in its class. From advanced technology and impressive performance to versatility and value, the F-150 sets itself apart from the competition. This article takes a closer look at why the F-150 continues to lead the pack and what makes it different from other pickup trucks.

Legacy of the F-150

The Ford F-150 is not just another truck; it’s an integral part of American culture. For decades, the F-Series has been the best-selling truck line in the country, and the F-150 has been at the heart of that success. While other pickup brands have come and gone, the F-150 has maintained its dominance by constantly evolving. Ford keeps updating its design, technology, and performance features to meet the changing needs of drivers. This long-standing reputation for reliability is one reason the F-150 stands out from other trucks.

Engine Choices and Performance

When it comes to power, the F-150 offers a wide range of engine options. Buyers can choose from fuel-efficient V6 engines, turbocharged EcoBoost options, a powerful V8, and even a hybrid powertrain. This variety ensures that there is an F-150 for every type of driver, whether you prioritize towing strength, fuel economy, or a balance of both. Competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado or Ram 1500 also offer multiple engines, but Ford’s lineup tends to deliver better overall performance across the board, especially with its EcoBoost engines that combine power with efficiency.

Best-in-Class Towing and Hauling

One of the main reasons people buy pickup trucks is for their towing and hauling capabilities. The F-150 regularly earns best-in-class titles for both. With certain configurations, it can tow over 14,000 pounds and carry a payload exceeding 3,000 pounds. These numbers outshine many rivals, giving drivers the confidence to handle heavy trailers, boats, or work equipment. The truck also comes with towing-focused technologies like Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which makes maneuvering trailers easier, something competitors are still catching up with.

Cutting-Edge Technology

Ford has always been forward-thinking when it comes to adding technology to the F-150. The latest models come equipped with large digital touchscreens, advanced navigation systems, and over-the-air updates that keep the truck’s software current. The SYNC infotainment system provides seamless smartphone integration, making it easy to stay connected on the go. While trucks like the Ram 1500 and GMC Sierra also offer advanced technology, the F-150 often sets the standard, especially with features like the optional 12-inch digital gauge cluster and wireless updates.

Interior Comfort and Design

Pickup trucks are no longer just about rugged utility—they are also expected to provide comfort and style. The F-150 delivers a spacious interior that can be customized to suit different needs. Higher trim models offer premium materials, along with leather seats and advanced climate control. Even the base models are designed with practicality and comfort in mind. Compared to its rivals, the F-150 strikes a balance between work-ready durability and luxury touches, making it a versatile choice for both job sites and family trips.

Innovation with Hybrid and Electric Options

Ford has taken a bold step by offering the F-150 with hybrid and electric powertrains. The F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid combines fuel efficiency with high towing power, a rare combination in the truck market. Meanwhile, the F-150 Lightning, the all-electric version, represents the future of trucks with instant torque, zero emissions, and advanced tech features. While other brands are introducing electric models, Ford’s decision to make its most iconic truck available in hybrid and electric forms shows leadership in innovation.

Smart Work Features

One thing that makes the F-150 particularly appealing to workers is the number of built-in smart features. The truck bed can include integrated measuring tools, clamp pockets for work projects, and power outlets that turn the truck into a mobile generator. These Pro Power Onboard outlets can power tools, appliances, or even a campsite. Competitors are starting to add similar features, but Ford was one of the first to think beyond just hauling and towing, creating a truck that supports an entire workday.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The F-150 is packed with advanced safety features designed to protect both drivers and passengers. Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assist technologies, includes blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The truck also offers advanced camera systems for towing and parking, giving drivers better visibility. While other trucks offer similar safety tools, Ford’s systems are user-friendly and widely available across trims, making them more accessible.

Off-Road Capability

For drivers who love adventure, the F-150 has specialized off-road models like the Tremor and the Raptor. These versions are designed with upgraded suspension systems, skid plates, and terrain management features that handle extreme conditions with ease. While competitors like the Ram TRX and Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss offer off-road options, the F-150 Raptor has earned legendary status for its performance in challenging terrains. This makes the F-150 a go-to truck for off-road enthusiasts.

Fuel Efficiency and Everyday Driving

One of the biggest improvements in recent years has been the F-150’s focus on fuel efficiency. Thanks to the EcoBoost engines and the hybrid model, the F-150 offers better gas mileage without sacrificing power. This makes it more practical for everyday driving compared to some rivals that prioritize raw power over efficiency. In a city like Houston, where commuting is a daily reality, having a truck that balances power with fuel savings is a major advantage.

Resale Value and Long-Term Reliability

Another reason the F-150 stands out is its strong resale value. Ford trucks are known for holding their value well, which is important for buyers who may want to trade in or sell down the road. The F-150’s proven track record of durability also adds to its appeal. While all major truck brands claim reliability, the F-150’s long history of satisfied owners proves it delivers on that promise year after year.

Customization and Trim Levels

The F-150 offers an impressive variety of trims and packages to meet different needs and budgets. From the practical XL work truck to the luxurious Limited trim, there is a model for every type of buyer. This level of customization goes beyond what many competitors offer, giving buyers more flexibility in choosing the features they want without paying for ones they don’t.

Why the F-150 Leads the Competition

When comparing the F-150 to other trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500, GMC Sierra, or Toyota Tundra, it becomes clear why it stands out. It delivers top-notch performance, unmatched innovation, and a balance of work-ready toughness with modern comfort. Ford’s willingness to innovate, from hybrid engines to advanced towing technology, shows its commitment to meeting the needs of today’s drivers while preparing for the future.

Conclusion

The Ford F-150 is not just another pickup—it is the benchmark for the entire segment. With powerful engine choices, advanced technology, strong towing capabilities, and innovative features that support both work and everyday life, the F-150 continues to dominate the competition. Whether you are looking for a reliable work truck, a family vehicle, or an off-road adventure machine, the F-150 delivers in every category. Ford’s dedication to innovation and quality ensures that the F-150 will continue to set the standard for years to come.

JR Motorsports — NXS Portland International Raceway Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview
TRACK – Portland International Raceway (1.967-mile road course)
NXS RACE – Pacific Office Automation 147 (75 laps / 147.75 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, MRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 7:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet

Kvapil 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 24

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 5

Top 10s: 11

Laps Led: 64

Avg. Finish: 13.7

Points: 6th

Making his fifth road course start of his NASCAR Xfinity Series career, Carson Kvapil will head to Portland International Raceway for the first time this weekend.

Of his four previous road-course starts, Kvapil has earned one top-five and two top-10s, with a best finish of fifth at Watkins Glen International earlier this month.

Coming off his 11th top-10 of the season, after Daytona International Speedway, the 22-year-old rookie ranks fifth in fastest drivers late in the run according to NASCAR Loop Data statistics.

With two races remaining in the regular season, Kvapil currently ranks 120 points above the cutline.

Carson Kvapil

“This No. 1 team has brought fast cars to the road courses so far this season and we have had a lot of success. I am looking forward to checking another new track off the list and while I haven’t run there before I feel like we have been able to adapt fairly well to the new tracks this season. We have been putting in work on the SIM to hone in on our strategy, so hopefully we can have our Bass Pro Shops/Clarience Technologies Chevrolet out front to get a solid finish for Johnny Morris and everyone at Bass Pro Shops and Clarience Technologies.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

Allgaier 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 24

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 12

Top 10s: 15

Laps Led: 695

Avg. Finish: 12.5

Points: 1st

Justin Allgaier heads to the Pacific Northwest for the fourth time in his NXS career this weekend.

In three previous starts at Portland, Allgaier has scored three top fives and a best finish of second in each of the previous two events at the 1.967-mile road course.

Allgaier has twice gone to Victory Lane for JR Motorsports on a road course in the NXS, with both victories coming during the 2018 season at Mid-Ohio Sports-Car Course and Road America.

With two races remaining in the NXS regular season, Allgaier currently holds a three-point lead in the championship standings.

Justin Allgaier

“Portland has been a strong track for us each time we have come here with our BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet. We came really close to getting the win here each of the last two years, and I know that Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) and everyone on this No. 7 team will give me another great car that will have another chance to get that one spot better on Saturday. JRM has been outstanding on road courses all season long and hopefully we can keep that going and come away with the win when it’s all said and done.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 24

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 5

Top 10s: 13

Laps Led: 62

Avg. Finish: 13.6

Points: 9th

Sammy Smith will make his third NXS start at Portland this Saturday.

Smith’s best finish of third at the Oregon road course came in 2024 with JRM after qualifying ninth.

The Iowa-native driver will make his 100th career NXS start this Saturday afternoon. After 99 starts, he has tallied three wins, 19 top-five and 47 top-10 finishes.

Of 18 road-course starts with the NXS, Smith has four top-five and eight top-10 finishes.

Sammy Smith

“This No. 8 Chevrolet has had strong showings on road courses this year. We’ve had better and better finishes each time so I’m looking forward to heading to Portland and finishing a couple spots better than we did at Watkins Glen to get this Pilot Chevrolet into Victory Lane. We had a solid run at Daytona last weekend so that helps the team confidence to keep pushing and get ourselves into a good spot before the playoffs start.”

Connor Zilisch

No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet

Zilisch 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 23

Wins: 7

Top 5s: 13

Top 10s: 15

Laps Led: 559

Avg. Finish: 9.1

Points: 2nd

Connor Zilisch will make his first NXS start at Portland this weekend. His record in six-career road course starts has been impressive with four wins, four poles and six top-five finishes. His average career road course finish entering Saturday’s race at Portland is a sizzling 1.83.

Zilisch and the No. 88 WeatherTech team enter Portland fresh off a victory last week at Daytona. Zilisch, with relief help from Parker Kligerman, won for the seventh time in 2025, tying the mark for most rookie wins. Zilisch started the race and ran to the first caution before Kligerman climbed behind the wheel and led 12 laps to then survive the NASCAR Overtime finish to win the race.

Zilisch is second in the NXS driver standings, three points behind teammate Allgaier with two races remaining in the regular season. The No. 88 team has a 46-point edge in the owner standings.

Daytona was the 12th consecutive top-five by Zilisch, an impressive streak that began in May at Charlotte Motor Speedway. His average finish in those races is a 2.08, which includes six victories (Pocono, Sonoma, Dover, Indianapolis, Watkins Glen, and Daytona).

Connor Zilisch

“Last week at Daytona was really cool with Parker Kligerman relieving me after a few laps and taking the WeatherTech Chevrolet to Victory Lane. It was great to watch Parker keep up the momentum this No. 88 team has built over the last few months and also get his first NASCAR Xfinity Series win. I’ve never raced at Portland so I’m looking forward to the challenge of learning a new road course this weekend.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Portland International Raceway: JR Motorsports has competed at Portland International Raceway a combined 12 times in the NXS since 2022. In those starts at the 1.967-mile road course, the organization has recorded seven top-fives and eight top-10s. The average finish is 12.3.

NXS Autograph Session: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith and Connor Zilisch will be signing autographs in the Fan Zone tent on Saturday, Aug. 30 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. PT.

Honda Element Mods: Turning a Boxy Classic Into Your Dream Ride

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

The Honda Element is one of those cars that refuses to blend in. With its squared-off design, versatile interior, and legendary reliability, it already attracts a certain type of driver—creative, adventurous, and not afraid to stand out. But the real magic of owning an Element lies in how easily it can be transformed. With the right mods, this quirky SUV goes from being a simple commuter to a rolling statement of who you are.

Why Mod the Honda Element?

The Element is often called a “blank canvas.” Its boxy shape means it’s perfect for customization, whether you want a rugged off-roader, a camper for weekend getaways, or just a head-turner around town. Unlike many modern SUVs packed with complicated tech, the Element is refreshingly straightforward—making mods simpler and more affordable.

Performance Mods

While the Element wasn’t built for speed, a few upgrades can make it livelier:

  • Cold air intake & exhaust systems for better airflow and a throatier sound.
  • Suspension lifts if you’re planning to hit the trails.
  • All-terrain tires that give it grip and presence.
  • Even an ECU tune can help squeeze out a bit more responsiveness.

Style & Exterior

The Element’s exterior practically begs for personalization. Some owners go subtle, others go wild:

  • Aftermarket grilles, bull bars, and skid plates add toughness.
  • Roof racks and baskets make it look ready for adventure.
  • Vinyl wraps or custom paint jobs completely change the vibe.
  • And of course, nothing changes the look faster than a new set of wheels and tires.

Camper & Adventure Builds

One of the Element’s superpowers is its interior. Those fold-flat seats and wide cargo space make it a favorite for DIY campers. Popular mods include:

  • Sleeping platforms with storage underneath.
  • Pop-up tents or roof-top tents for extended trips.
  • 12V power setups with inverters for off-grid living.
  • MOLLE panels for mounting gear.

With a little work, your Element can double as a micro RV.

Interior Upgrades

Comfort matters, especially if you’re using the Element as a daily driver or camper. Mods here focus on making the cabin more enjoyable:

  • Upgraded head units with CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Better speakers and soundproofing to cut road noise.
  • LED lighting inside for a modern touch.
  • Swappable center consoles from other vehicles (Element owners love this hack).

The Community Factor

Perhaps the coolest thing about modding a Honda Element is the community. Forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit are full of owners swapping ideas, sharing builds, and showing off wild creations. From lifted overlanders to slammed street builds, the Element has found a second life as one of the most customizable Hondas out there.

The Honda Element may be quirky, but that’s its charm. Modding it isn’t just about adding parts—it’s about turning an already unique car into something that feels 100% yours. Whether you’re chasing style, performance, or full camper van vibes, the Element is ready to become whatever you want it to be.

Reasons for the Growth of Online Casino Games

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

Over the past two decades, online casino games have transformed from a niche pastime into a global industry valued at billions. What began as digital versions of classic games, such as roulette and blackjack, has evolved into an immersive experience that captivates millions worldwide. With advanced graphics and interactive features, mobile access, and massive jackpots, online casino games and slot gacor popular on platforms such as Zeus 138 have redefined how people gamble and enjoy entertainment.

Evolution of Online Casino Games

There weren’t many casino games available in the early days of the internet. Basic graphics, little sound effects, and gameplay that lacked the excitement of physical casinos were all present. However, as technology advanced, so did the complexity and variety of online gaming. Improved software, faster internet, and more digital security made it possible for online casinos to provide safe, realistic, and entertaining platforms.

Today, players can choose from thousands of slot machines, table games, and live dealer experiences from their homes. Games now incorporate rich themes, narratives, and interactive components, making them more than mere gambling—they have evolved into a form of digital entertainment.

Accessibility and Convenience

Online casino games’ accessibility is one of the primary factors. Online casinos are accessible at any time and from any location, unlike traditional casinos that require travel and a physical presence. Players only need to tap their screens to try their luck at blackjack, join a poker table, or spin a slot machine.

From casual players who enjoy quick spins during their break to serious gamblers looking for live dealer tables, online casinos cater to every type of player.

Variety of Games and Features

The wide variety of online casino games is another factor contributing to its growth. Slots alone come in thousands of different themes—ranging from classic fruit machines to modern games inspired by movies, mythology, and adventure. Table games, such as poker, baccarat, and roulette, also come with multiple variations, offering players new ways to enjoy their old favorites.

Innovative features, such as bonus rounds, free spins, and progressive jackpots, have further enhanced the excitement. Progressive jackpots, in particular, have become a major attraction, as they pool contributions from thousands of players to create prize amounts worth millions. The possibility of winning life-changing sums with a single spin keeps players engaged and eager to return.

Live Dealer Games

Some of the most significant innovations in recent years have been the rise of live dealer games. These online slot gacor games combine the convenience of online casinos with the authenticity of a real-life casino environment. With the added social element of being able to chat with the dealer and other players, it has added a sense of community that was once missing from online gambling.

Security and Fairness

Licensed and regulated casinos utilize state-of-the-art encryption to safeguard their customers’ funds. They also rely on Random Number Generators (RNGs), ensuring that every spin or card draw is truly random and thereby maintaining fairness. This transparency and commitment to fair play have made online casinos a reliable source of entertainment.

Responsible Gaming

While the growth of online casino games is impressive, it also comes with its share of responsibility. Many platforms now promote safe and responsible gaming by offering features such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and time trackers. These tools help players stay in control and treat online gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a source of guaranteed income.

The Future of Online Casino Games

The growth of online casino games shows no sign of slowing down. Emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), and Artificial intelligence (AI) are expected to take the experience to new heights, offering players even more immersive and interactive environments. Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency payments are also reshaping how transactions are made, providing faster, more secure, and anonymous options for players.

Conclusion

The growth of online casino games reflects how technology, innovation, and convenience have combined to transform gambling into a dynamic form of digital entertainment. With thousands of games, advanced features, and the ability to play anywhere, online casinos continue to attract millions of players globally. As technology continues to evolve, the industry will expand further, creating new opportunities for excitement, strategy, and rewards.

The Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Outlook

By
SM Staff
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com

The NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) heads to Darlington Raceway for the Cook Out Southern 500 on August 31st at 6 p.m. ET on the USA Network for the first race of the 10-race Cup Series Playoffs. The 2025 season also marks the fifth year the NCS Playoffs opened at Darlington.

Bubba Wallace captured the 2024 Cook Out Southern 500 pole with a speed of 167.146 mph (29.421 secs.) and Chase Briscoe crossed the finish line first in his No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford to win the race.

NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Standings Outlook

RankDriverPointsBehindNextWinsTop-5Top-10PolesPLayoof Pts+/- Cutoff
1Kyle Larson2,032003111613226
2William Byron2,03200291323226
3Denny Hamlin2,029-3-34111312923
4Ryan Blaney2,026-6-32101432620
5Christopher Bell2,023-9-3391412317
6Shane Van Gisbergen2,022-10-144532216
7Chase Elliott2,013-19-917131137
8Chase Briscoe2,010-22-3110126104
9Bubba Wallace2,008-24-21410082
10Austin Cindric2,008-240125082
11Ross Chastain2,007-25-11310071
12Joey Logano2,007-250137171
13Josh Berry2,006-26-112506-1
14Tyler Reddick2,006-26005916-1
15Austin Dillon2,005-27-111505-2
16Alex Bowman2,002-30-3061422-5

Five times the winner of the opening race of the NCS Playoffs has gone on to win the championship (2004 – Kurt Busch, 2011 – Tony Stewart, 2012 – Brad Keselowski, 2017 – Martin Truex Jr, and 2024 – Joey Logano).

Track & Race Information for the Cook Out Southern 500

Track Length: 1.366-Mile
Degree of Banking in Corners: 25 degrees – Turns 1 & 2 and 23 degrees – Turns 3 & 4
Degree of Banking on Straights: 6 degrees
Frontstretch Length: 1,229 feet
Backstretch Length: 1,229 feet
Season Race: #27 of 36 (August 31, 2025)
The Purse: $10,447,135
Race Length: 501.32 Miles (367 laps)

Time

August 31 at 6 p.m. ET on the USA Network, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Stages

Stage 1 & 2 Length: 115 Laps (each)
Final Stage Length: 137 Laps

Who and what should you look out for at Darlington Raceway?

  • Joey Logano (2022 sweep) and William Byron (2019, 2025) lead all active NCS drivers in poles with two each. Joey Logano has two poles, one win, six top fives, 11 top 10s, and an Average finish of 13.304. Byron has two poles, one win, five top fives, seven top 10s, and an average finish of 15.000.
  • Kyle Busch leads all active NASCAR Cup Series drivers in starts at Darlington Raceway with 27 starts.
  • Denny Hamlin has one pole, five wins, 14 top fives, 19 top 10s, and the series-best average finish of 7.923. Hamlin also leads all active NCS drivers in average starting position at 8.731 in 26 starts. Hamlin (2010, 2017, 2020-2, 2021-2) leads all active NCS drivers in wins with four.
  • Tyler Reddick has one pole, four top fives, six top 10s, and an average finish of 12.333.
  • Kyle Larson has one win, seven top fives, nine top 10s, and an average finish of 12.533.

Eight of the 55 NCS Darlington race winners are active this weekend:

Active Darlington Race WinnersWinsSeasons
Denny Hamlin52025, 2021, 2020, 2017, 2010
Brad Keselowski22024, 2018
Erik Jones22022, 2019
Chase Briscoe12024
Kyle Larson12023
William Byron12023
Joey Logano12022
Kyle Busch12008

Logano is the only active driver to win from the pole in the NCS at Darlington (2022).

World Supercross announces latest line-up news as it prepares for greatest set of riders ever

By
Official Release
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  • Newly announced household names Jason Anderson and Max Anstie added to the line-up for the 2025 season across SX1 and SX2 classes
  • Favourites from last season also return including reigning SX2 World Champion Shane McElrath, South American fan favourite Enzo Lopes and 2024 SX1 podium finisher Joey Savatgy
  • Latest updates add to already announced global stars including two-time former World Champion Ken Roczen, reigning SX1 World Champion Eli Tomac, 2025 AMA Supercross 450 champion Cooper Webb and reigning two-time AMA Supercross 250 East champion Tom Vialle
  • Yarrive Konsky’s Quad Lock Honda adds star power and depth to help defend its team championship crown

London, UK 26th August 2025: The FIM World Supercross Championship today unveiled its most competitive rider lineup to date for the 2025 season, underscoring a new era of depth and global star power in the sport.

This year’s roster sees international headliner Jason Anderson join to compete for the World Championship title in SX1, along with the addition of Justin Hill who returns to the series joining Venom Bud Racing Kawasaki. While in SX2 a fierce battle is expected as Max Anstie returns as a full series rider in 2025, looking to reclaim his 2023 world title by facing off against last year’s champion Shane McElrath, who will be looking to make it two world titles in a row.

They are joined by a stellar cast of established race winners and rising talent across the rest of the starting gate, setting the stage for the most anticipated season in championship history. The 2025 season also sees the return of former World Champion Ken Roczen, as well as wildcard entries from Eli Tomac, Cooper Webb, Justin Cooper and Tom Vialle adding even more firepower at key events, ensuring world-class matchups across all five rounds.

Tom Burwell, CEO at World Supercross said: “The depth and quality of this year’s lineup is unmatched – this is without doubt the strongest roster we’ve ever had. Nowhere is this more apparent than in BA which will see the strongest rider line up assembled outside of the USA for the past 20 years, this is only possible due to the support of the city of Buenos Aires and local promoter EDV Entertainment, as well as the long-term stability provided by the Geneva Agreement. Fans worldwide are going to witness something very special this year, with our big name stars heading around the globe, there isn’t a stop on the tour you’d want to miss out on. We’re delivering on our mission to give global supercross fans what they deserve, a true world class championship with even more star talent to go with it. Bring it on.”

The season kicks off under the lights in Kuala Lumpur with Round 01, when the Malaysian GP sets the tone for the rest of the season as championship favourites, reigning title holders and up and coming challengers take to the starting gate for the 2025 season.

Round 02, the Buenos Aires City GP, will mark a pivotal moment as the strongest supercross rider lineup assembled outside of the USA in the past two decades – a milestone for Argentina’s passionate motorsport fans. Championship stars including Jason Anderson and Justin Hill will race against big name wildcards including Justin Cooper and Tom Vialle, with more riders to be announced. While in SX2, reigning world champion Shane McElrath is back to defend his title against full season debutant Max Anstie and a name sure to bring the South American fans to town, Brazilian star Enzo Lopes. The event brings global icons together once again in a market already steeped in elite motocross history.

Other highlight moments on the global calendar include Round 03 in Vancouver as Eli Tomac and Ken Roczen take on Justin Cooper in a fierce face off, before Round 04’s Australian GP will see another trio of Ken Roczen, Eli Tomac and this time Cooper Webb doing battle down on the Gold Coast. The season is then wrapped up with Round 05 in Cape Town for the South African GP, as the titles of World Champion are decided and history is written in a high-stakes showdown.

Team and rider highlights:

  • Pipes Motorsports Group: Kyle Chisholm and Robbie Wageman set to compete for the SX2 title, with further announcements still to come on the team’s full lineup
  • Quad Lock Honda: Shane McElrath and Joey Savatgy return, and Brodie Connolly brought in as the reigning champions look to defend their team crown
  • GSM Yamaha: Max Anstie returns to the series after a standout wildcard appearance last season, joining French stars Jordi Tixier and Maxime Desprey
  • Venum Bud Racing Kawasaki, Rick Ware Racing, and MotoConcepts Racing all add depth and international talent, highlighting the breadth of competition across SX1 and SX2
  • Stark Future join as the seventh team enabled by the long-term stability of the recently signed Geneva Agreement, with riders to be announced soon

Kurt Nicoll, Vice President of Race Development at World Supercross, said: “This is, without doubt, the deepest, most competitive field we’ve ever had, and we have the data to back that up. We’ve analysed rider performance, championship finishes, and global rankings to ensure fans see the world’s best on a truly international stage.

“It speaks volumes about the championship’s growth and the riders’ desire to race against the elite. The Geneva Agreement has played a key role in making this possible, giving teams the stability to invest in elite talent and ensuring the championship continues to grow at a global level. Fans around the world are in for an incredible season of supercross action.”

Shane McElrath, reigning SX2 World Supercross Champion, added: “I can’t wait to get back out on the global stage and defend my World Supercross title. The rider lineup is shaping up to be incredibly strong, and I’m ready to prove I can do it again against the best in the world.”

The landmark Geneva Agreement, signed with teams earlier this year, provides financial stability and ensures the participation of world-class talent through 2027. With prize funding, participation fees, and incentives tied to elite rider recruitment, the agreement underpins the growth of the championship and allows teams to invest confidently in marquee names.

With long-term stability secured through the Geneva Agreement, a calendar spanning five continents, and a roster filled with the sport’s biggest stars, the 2025 championship is set to deliver the most thrilling season in World Supercross history.

Even more rider announcements will be revealed soon. Fans can purchase tickets at worldsupercrosschampionship.com.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

2025 FIM World Supercross Championship Rider Lineup (to date)

PIPES MOTORSPORTS GROUP

TBC – SX1
TBC – SX1
Kyle Chisholm (USA) – SX2
Robbie Wageman (USA) – SX2

QUAD LOCK HONDA

Joey Savatgy (USA) – SX1
TBC – SX1
Shane McElrath (USA) – SX2
Brodie Connolly (NZL) – SX2

MOTOCONCEPTS RACING

Austin Politelli (USA) – SX1
Ryan Breece (USA) – SX1
Noah Viney (USA) – SX2
Cullin Park (USA) – SX2

VENUM BUD RACING KAWASAKI

Justin Hill (USA) – SX1
Quentin Prugnieres (FRA) – SX1
Cole Thompson (CAN) – SX2
Kyle Peters (USA) – SX2

RICK WARE RACING

Henry Miller (USA) – SX1
Devin Simonson (USA) – SX1
Enzo Lopes (BRA) – SX2
Coty Schock (USA) – SX2

GSM STAR RACING YAMAHA

Greg Aranda (FRA) – SX1
Jordi Tixier (FRA) – SX1
Max Anstie (GBR) – SX2
Maxime Desprey (FRA) – SX2

STARK FUTURE

TBC – SX1
TBC – SX1
TBC – SX2
TBC – SX2

WILDCARDS

Cooper Webb (USA) – SX1 – Australian GP
Eli Tomac (USA) – SX1 – Australian GP & Canadian GP
Justin Cooper (USA) – SX1 – Buenos Aires City CP & Canadian GP
Tom Vialle (FRA) – SX1 – Buenos Aires City GP & Australian GP
Reid Taylor (AUS) – SX2 – Australian GP
Plus more to be announced

2025 FIM WORLD SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR:

Round 01: Malaysian GP, Kuala Lumpur – Stadium Merdeka, 18th October
Round 02: Buenos Aires City GP, Argentina – Oscar & Juan Gálvez Racetrack, 8th November
Round 03: Canadian GP, Vancouver – BC Place, 15th November
Round 04: Australian GP, Gold Coast – Cbus Super Stadium, 29th November
Round 05: South African GP, Cape Town – DHL Stadium, 13th December

Front Row Motorsports: Darlington Raceway Competition Notes – Noah Gragson

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Official Release
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Noah Gragson and the No. 4 Long John Silver’s Ford Team
Darlington Raceway Competition Notes
Southern 500

Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Event: Race 29 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Darlington Raceway (1.3-miles)
#of Laps: 367
Time/TV/Radio: 6:00 PM ET on USA/MRN/SiriusXM channel 90

Noah Gragson Notes

Noah Gragson and the No. 4 team return to Darlington Raceway in South Carolina this Sunday for one of NASCAR’s crown jewel events, the Southern 500. This year’s race will mark Gragson’s fifth career NASCAR Cup Series start at the 1.3-mile oval, and his second in the Southern 500. Gragson finished 19th in April’s Goodyear 400. Gragson’s history at the Darlington Raceway at the Xfinity Series level is strong, having only one finish outside the top-10 in eight starts. In total, Gragson has two wins, five top-five, and seven top-10 finishes in the feeder series at the track.

“Darlington is such a fun but challenging racetrack, and with the Southern 500 it’s always a true test,” said Gragson. “It’s a long race that wears you out mentally and emotionally, and you’ve got to stay locked in for 500 miles. I enjoy it a ton because I feel like I know every bump and crack around that place. If the car’s handling one way, I can adjust my line and really help the balance. I just have a good feel for what the track gives me and how to make the most of it. We had a top-20 there in the spring, and I’m excited to go back and build on that.”
Road Crew

Driver: Noah Gragson

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Crew Chief: Drew Blickensderfer

Hometown: Decatur, Illinois

Car Chief: Joey Forgette

Hometown: Iron Mountain, Michigan

Engineer: Dillon Silverman

Hometown: Chico, California

Engineer: Scott Bingham

Hometown: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Mechanic: Chris Trickett

Hometown: Grafton, West Virginia

Mechanic: Tony Infinger

Hometown: Fort Valley, Georgia

Tire Specialist: Chris Aunspaw

Hometown: Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Engine Tuner: Matt Moeller

Hometown: Monroe, New York

Spotter: Nick Del Campo

Hometown: Blauvelt, New York

Transporter Co-Driver: Nate “Cookie” Eller

Hometown: Granite Falls, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Matt Murphy

Hometown: Augusta, Georgia

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Thomas Hatcher

Hometown: Middleburg, Florida

Rear Tire Changer: Adam Riley

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Tire Carrier: Jarren Davis

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Jackman: Nate McBride

Hometown: Vidalia, Georgia

Fueler: Ray Hernandez

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

ABOUT LONG JOHN SILVER’S

Long John Silver’s was founded in 1969 and is on a mission to create treasured moments through high-quality food and bell-ringing service. With restaurants from sea to mouth-watering sea, Long John Silver’s continues building on a belief that the unique seafood experience from the coasts should be accessible to all. Learn more at ljsilvers.com or join the conversation via social media on X, Facebook, or Instagram.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

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

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: SOUTHERN 500 RACE PREVIEW

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Official Release
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LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: SOUTHERN 500 PRE-RACE ADVANCE
EVENT: Cook Out Southern 500
DATE: August 31, 2025
RACE: NASCAR Cup Series 27 of 36
TRACK: Darlington (S.C.) Raceway | 1.366-Mile Oval

CLUB MINUTES:

JJ – TWO-TIME SOUTHERN 500 CHAMP: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB co-owner and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson has 24 Cup Series starts at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway. In his career, Johnson is a two-time Southern 500 champion and a three-time winner at Darlington. He has earned nine top-fives and 13 top-10s at the track nicknamed “The Lady in Black” as well as led 563 laps. His first win at Darlington came in March 2005 when Johnson started 11th and led 69 laps en route to a .132 of a second margin of victory over Bobby Labonte. He followed that up in the November 2004 Southern 500 when he started fourth, led 124 laps, and bested Mark Martin by .959 of a second. His final win at Darlington came in the 2012 Southern 500 when he started second, led 134 laps, and beat Denny Hamlin by .781 of a second.

KENSETH WINS AT DARLINGTON: LEGACY MC competition advisor Matt Kenseth owns 28 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Darlington Raceway. He earned one win, three top-fives, and 13 top-10s in these starts and led 193 laps. Kenseth is also a Southern 500 winner. A year after Johnson’s win in 2012, Kenseth started seventh and led 17 laps en route to a 3.155 seconds margins of victory over Denny Hamlin.

THE KING AT DARLINGTON: Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion and LEGACY MC ambassador Richard Petty owns 65 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Darlington Raceway and is also a Southern 500 champion. In total, he accumulated three wins, 25 top-fives, and 34 top-10s at Darlington. He also led 2,391 laps at the 1.366-mile oval. His first victory came in April 1966 where Petty started on the pole and led 281 of 291 laps to find victory lane. He found victory lane again in May 1967 when he started second behind David Pearson and led 266 laps to win his second race at the track. His final win came in the September 1967 Southern 500 where Petty once again started on the pole and led a total of 345 laps to best David Pearson once again.

HONORING LOCAL HEROES: This weekend at Darlington, LEGACY MC will pay tribute to fallen Darlington County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Devin Mason with a commemorative decal on both the No. 42 and No. 43 Toyota Camry XSEs. Additionally, Deputy Mason will ride along with John Hunter Nemechek as his name is displayed above the driver-side door on the No. 42 Pye-Barker Fire & Safety Toyota Camry XSE.

On June 30, Nemechek visited the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office to meet with first responders and gain insight into their service to the community. The following evening on July 1, Deputy Mason was killed in the line of duty while responding to a call in Darlington. His sacrifice serves as a reminder of the daily risks law enforcement officers face to keep their communities safe.

CROWN JEWEL NUMBER SHADOWING: LEGACY MC’s Number Shadowing program will be back this weekend for the Crown Jewel race of the Southern 500. As part of the program that was announced prior to the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway, the shadows of Parts Blue on the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE and Lee Petty’s red on the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE will be on the door for NASCAR’s Crown Jewel races – which include the Daytona 500, Coca-Cola 500, Brickyard 400, the Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway, and the Southern 500 at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway.

NEVER SETTLE NOW ON YOUTUBE: Join ESPN’s Marty Smith and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB’s co-owner Jimmie Johnson for their weekly podcast, “Never Settle”. The podcast airs live on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Ch. 90 at 2 p.m. EDT every Wednesday and can be downloaded wherever fans source their podcasts.

This week’s guest is Greg Olsen, former NFL Carolina Panthers tight end and sportscaster for FOX Sports. NEW Fans can now tune into Never Settle on YouTube and watch the behind the scenes as well as full episodes. Click HERE to watch and subscribe.

JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK
NO. 42 PYE-BARKER FIRE & SAFETY TOYOTA CAMRY XSE
JHN TAKES ON ‘THE LADY IN BLACK’: John Hunter Nemechek has six starts at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway in the NASCAR Cup Series. He earned his highest finish of ninth in his first start there in the first race of the May 2020 doubleheader. In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, he has six starts at Darlington, earning three top-5 finishes and two poles, earned in May 2023 and September 2023. He also earned his highest finish of third in the May 2023 race. Nemechek also has three starts at Darlington in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where he won in May 2022, earned two poles in May 2021 and 2022, and never finished worse than eighth, including two top-two finishes.

TRUCK SERIES WINNER AT DARLINGTON: In May 2022, Nemechek took home the checkered flag in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race after starting on the pole. He led 69 out of 147 laps and won with a .552 margin of victory over Carson Hocevar. Nemechek was running a full time season in the Truck Series in 2022, and Darlington marked his first of two wins that season.

T-MACK DARLINGTON STATS: Sunday evening’s race will be crew chief Travis Mack’s 10th NASCAR Cup Series race at Darlington. His first outing at the 1.366-mile oval came in May 2021 with Daniel Suárez, and the duo competed for six total races between 2021 and 2023. Mack’s highest finish of tenth came with Suárez in May 2022. In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Mack made four starts at Darlington with Michael Annett between 2018 and 2020, earning two top-10 finishes and a best result of eighth in September 2020.

JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK QUOTE:
“Darlington has been a strong track for me in other series, so I’m excited to get back there and see what we can do based on what we’ve learned so far this season. We’ve had really fast LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Toyotas recently, so I’m feeling confident that we’ll be able to capitalize on that speed and have a strong weekend.”

TRAVIS MACK QUOTE:
“I’m happy we get a second run at an intermediate track. We feel like we’ve made big improvements since the spring race at Darlington. We’ve been reviewing our notes and noticed upwards trends, and we can build off Indy and the cars we’ve been bringing to the racetrack. We feel good about Darlington.”

PHOTO CREDIT: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB

ERIK JONES
NO. 43 DOLLAR TREE TOYOTA CAMRY XSE
THAT JONES BOY AT DARLINGTON: Sunday evening’s Cook Out Southern 500 will mark Erik Jones’ 16th NASCAR Cup Series start at historic Darlington (S.C.) Raceway. Jones made a name for himself at the 1.366-mile oval where he owns two Southern 500 victories, five top-fives, and eight top-10s. He has led 132 laps in his career at Darlington. He an additional two starts at Darlington in the NASCAR Xfinity Series where he never started worse than 11th and never finished outside the top-six. In his first start there in September 2016, Jones started 10th and finished an impressive sixth. He followed that up in September 2017 when he started 11th and earned a fourth-place result.

TWO-TIME SOUTHERN 500 WINNER: Jones is not only a winner at Darlington, but a two-time Southern 500 winner. The crown jewel race has been kind to the Byron, Michigan native in his career. His first Southern 500 victory came in September 2019. Jones started 15th and led 79 laps en route to a 4.058 second victory over Kyle Larson. After a couple of top 10s, Jones found victory lane at Darlington once again in the September 2022 Southern 500. He once again started 15th and led a total of 23 laps to find victory lane with a .252 of a second margin of victory over Denny Hamlin.

BESHORE DARLINGTON STATS: Crew chief Ben Beshore has seven NASCAR Cup Series under his belt at Darlington Raceway. He made his first start in May 2012 with Kyle Busch who started third and finished in the same position, his best Cup Series finish at the track. He worked another three races with Busch before moving over to John Hunter Nemechek in the 2024 season. The duo finished 31st and 25th, respectively. He then moved over to Jones with several races to go in the 2024 season. He finished 17th earlier this year at Darlington with the No. 43 team. He has an additional five races on top of the box in Darlington in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Denny Hamlin, Harrison Burton, and Nemechek. He earned a best finish of third after starting on the pole with Nemechek in September 2023. In the Xfinity Series, he only finished outside of the top 10 once with his drivers and led 183 laps.

ERIK JONES QUOTE
“I’ve always been comfortable at Darlington. It’s a place where I’ve done well and had a lot of speed. It reminds me of a lot of the tracks I grew up racing on. I’ve been lucky to be able to not only win two Southern 500s, but also just have really strong runs at this track. There are some places that you just get that feeling and Darlington is one of them for me. I know the No. 43 team will bring me a strong car, and I’m excited to get to Darlington and see what we can do.”

BEN BESHORE QUOTE
“There are a few keys to being successful at Darlington. It’s an asymmetrical track with a big, wide radius in Turn 1 versus a tighter radius in Turn 3. You’re sort of trying to balance both ends as well as you can. Typically, you’re a little free across Turns 1 and 2 with some bumps off of Turn 2. Then you’re tight when you’re trying to run the wall in Turns 3 and 4. We want to put a good setup underneath him that is a good compromise for both ends of the racetrack. It’s going to come down to qualifying well and having good pit stops. You’re probably going to have a lot of green flag runs and pitting under green. You have to execute all the tiny details and not have the mistakes. Then, you can chip forward as other guys do make mistakes or have tire issues. It’s a long race though, so you can also have time to get back in it. You can get off strategy and catch a caution at a different spot. I’m excited to get to Darlington.”

CLUB APPEARANCES:
Jones will be at the NASCAR Experience Stage for a Q&A session on Sunday, Aug. 31 at 2:45 p.m. local time.

Nemechek will be at the NASCAR Classics trackside merchandise rig to sign for fans at 3:00 p.m. local time on Sunday, Aug. 31.

TUNE IN:
Fans can tune in to watch the Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway on Sunday, August 31 at 6 p.m. EDT on USA, MAX, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90).

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: (LEGACY MC) is a premier auto racing organization co-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.

Trans Am Series Announces 2026 Schedule for 60th-Anniversary Season

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Official Release
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National Championship Returns to The Brickyard, Adds Two Doubleheader Events Next Season

Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli announces its 2026 schedule

CHARLOTTE (August 26, 2025) — The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli announces its 2026 schedule for its 60th-anniversary season. As the longest-running professional road racing series in North America celebrates six decades of competition, the National Championship will visit 10 bucket list venues across the United States and Canada, while the Western Championship will feature a five-race schedule at three iconic tracks.

The 12-race National Championship calendar includes a return to the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway after a two-year absence, along with many competitor and fan-favorite venues from past seasons. Two doubleheader events are also on the schedule at Sonoma Raceway and Watkins Glen International, giving fans at those popular tracks four races in a weekend between the TA/GT classes and the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series.

The Western Championship will join the National Championship for two events next season, while hosting one standalone doubleheader.

The National Championship will begin its 60th-anniversary season as it has since 2013, at the birthplace of Trans Am, Sebring International Raceway (February 26-March 1). The season-opener will be preceded by a two-day Sebring test (January 21-22). Sebring is the track where the series, originally named the Trans-American Sedan Championship, made its debut on March 25, 1966, and the historic venue has hosted 31 Trans Am races over the past 59 years.

After Sebring, Trans Am will travel to Road Atlanta (March 12-15). The series will then head west to Sonoma Raceway (April 23-26) for a doubleheader event with the Western Championship, hosting two TA/GT and two CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series races in one weekend. Next, is a trip to Lime Rock Park for its longstanding tradition of racing on Memorial Day Weekend (May 21-23).

In the next round, the series will return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the first time since 2023 (June 18-21), which will go back-to-back with Road America the following weekend (June 25-28). The series then heads to Watkins Glen International for a summer doubleheader (July 16-19). Teams will head North of the border to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (September 3-6) to participate in the Labour Day Weekend Sprints before the penultimate race of the season will be held at VIRginia International Raceway (September 17-20). Teams will visit Circuit of The Americas (November 5-8) for a season finale combination event with the Western Championship. The weekend will be capped off with the series’ year-end awards gala.

2026 Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli National Championship Schedule

January 21-22 – Sebring International Raceway Test (Sebring, Fla.)
Feb. 26-Mar.1 – Sebring International Raceway (Sebring, Fla.)
March 12-15 – Road Atlanta (Braselton, Ga.)
April 23-26 – Sonoma Raceway (Sonoma, Calif.)*
May 21-23 – Lime Rock Park (Lakeville, Conn.)
June 18-21 – Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Speedway, Ind.)
June 25-28 – Road America (Plymouth, Wis.)
July 16-19 – Watkins Glen International (Watkins Glen, N.Y.)*
September 3-6 – Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (Bowmanville, Ontario)
September 17-20 – VIRginia International Raceway (Alton, Va.)
November 5-8 – Circuit of The Americas (Austin, Texas)
*Denotes Doubleheader

Western Championship Schedule Features Five Points-Paying Events

The 2025 Western Championship schedule kicks off its 10th season of competition with a doubleheader combination event with the National Championship at Sonoma Raceway (April 23-26), providing two races each for the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series and TA/TA Cup/XGT/SGT/GT classes.

Drivers return to action in the fall for a standalone doubleheader at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (October 2-4). As in seasons past, the schedule will conclude at Circuit of The Americas (November 5-8) for a championship weekend with the National Championship. Western competitors will be celebrated at the awards gala that Sunday.

2026 Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli Western Championship Schedule

April 23-26 – Sonoma Raceway (Sonoma, Calif.)*
October 2-4 – WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (Salinas, Calif.)*
November 5-8 – Circuit of The Americas (Austin, Texas)
*Denotes Doubleheader

“I am really happy with the quality of tracks that we have for 2026,” said Trans Am President Andy Lally. “Trans Am released their best schedule ever in 2025, and to be able to improve upon that by having our Trans Am Series class winners kiss the bricks at Indianapolis is just icing on the cake. That track is a crown jewel on any series’ schedule. Additionally, in all of my years in motorsports, it’s tough to remember a time when racing did not get more expensive each year. We listened to our teams, who expressed concerns about rising travel expenses, and we are experimenting with two doubleheader weekends at great tracks in an effort to deliver the same amount of racing, while reducing travel costs.”

As the 2025 season approaches its exciting conclusion, the Trans Am Series returns to action this weekend at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, August 28-30, followed by VIRginia International Raceway, September 18-21. The Western Championship next heads to Thunderhill Raceway Park on October 10-12 for their final doubleheader weekend of the season. The National Championship makes its debut at Barber Motorsports Park, October 17-19, before both championships then converge for the season finale at Circuit of The Americas, October 30-November 2.

About the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli: The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli is the longest-running professional road racing series in North America. Founded in 1966, the Trans Am Series and has excited audiences for nearly 60 years with its combination of powerful American muscle cars and elite GT cars from around the world. With several diverse and competitive classes of racecars and both National and Western Championships, Trans Am offers something for every fan and every competitor. The series will host 11 events nationwide in 2026. For more information, visit GoTransAm.com.

Spire Motorsports Sober or Slammer 200 Race Advance

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Official Release
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  • In four NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway, Spire Motorsports has earned one top-10 finish. Chase Purdy collected a team-best sixth-place result at the famed 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval last May. The Mooresville, N.C., organization fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets full time in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The No. 7 entry will see a rotating roster of all-star caliber drivers throughout the remainder of the season, while Rajah Caruth and NASCAR Cup Series veteran Corey LaJoie will pilot the Nos. 71 and 77, respectively.
  • The Sober or Slammer 200 will be televised live on FS1 Saturday, Aug. 30 beginning at noon Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The first round of the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Channel 90.

Corey Day – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Corey Day will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday’s Sober or Slammer 200 at Darlington Raceway.
  • The 200-mile event will mark the Clovis, Calif., native’s 12th CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start and eighth with Spire Motorsports. Last month, Day secured his second consecutive top five via a career-best runner-up finish at Indianapolis Raceway Park. He previously finished fifth at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway in June and scored his first-career Kennametal Pole Award in his season debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
  • The Hendrick Motorsports development driver has started five races behind the wheel of the team’s No. 17 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His series-best 11th-place finish also came in May at Nashville Superspeedway.
  • In three ARCA Menards Series appearances with Spire Motorsports in 2025, including the national tour and ARCA Menards Series West competition, Day buoyed a disappointing start to the season at Daytona (Fla.) International Raceway by earning top-10 results at Phoenix Raceway (10th) and Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway (seventh). He will contest his fourth and final event aboard the team’s No. 77 Chevrolet at Kansas Speedway Sept. 26.
  • The 19-year-old will round out his nine-race CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule in two weeks at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.
  • The open-wheel phenom is coming off a $100,071 payday at last weekend’s Gold Cup Race of Champions at Silver Dollar Speedway in Chico, Calif. He started from the pole after collecting the most points and earning an additional $10,000 for winning Thursday’s preliminary event.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • Day will race Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-083 Saturday afternoon. Day raced the same truck earlier this season at Nashville and Las Vegas, collecting a fifth-place result and a Kennametal Pole Award, respectively.

Corey Day Quote
What are your thoughts heading to Darlington Raceway, another new track for you?
“I am definitely excited to get to Darlington [Raceway] coming off a couple pretty good runs in the Truck. I hope to continue the momentum at a place that seems to lend itself for dirt guys to be successful there. Definitely excited about that. I know Spire Motorsports will prepare a solid HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevy Silverado for this weekend. One of the key factors will be how quick I can get up to speed at and adapt.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Brian Pattie

  • Brian Pattie stands atop of the No. 7 pit box, an entry that has seen an abundance of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2025 season.
  • The No. 7 team qualified for the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series owner’s playoffs and sit seventh on the grid, two points ahead of the Round of 8 cutoff. Through the 18-race regular season, the crew tallied two wins, six top fives and eight top 10s.
  • The Zephyrhills, Fla., native has called two CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at Darlington, highlighted by a fourth-place finish with William Byron in 2023.
  • In a combined 25 races atop the pit box in NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series competition at Darlington, the 50-year-old has collected a pair of top fives. He led both Joe Nemechek (Xfinity, 1999) and Juan Pablo Montoya (Cup, 2010) to fifth-place finishes.
  • In May, the team and driver Carson Hocevar claimed victory in the Heart of Health Care 200 at Kansas Speedway. Hocevar led 75 of the event’s 134 laps and survived last-lap contact en route to his fifth victory in the series and first aboard a Spire Motorsports- prepared Chevy Silverado.
  • The No. 7 team defended its 2024 victory in the Fr8 208 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in February with Kyle Busch behind the wheel. The Las Vegas driver spent all 135 laps in the top 15 while leading a race-high 80 laps and recording a field-leading average running position (3.2) and driver rating (124.6).
  • The 24-year industry veteran spent 14 seasons in NASCAR’s premier division. As a crew chief, he’s amassed six wins in Cup Series competition, 11 in the Xfinity Series and seven in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. He stands as one of 11 crew chiefs to win races across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.

Rajah Caruth – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Rajah Caruth will handle the driving chores for Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday’s Sober or Slammer 200 at Darlington Raceway.
  • This weekend, Spire Motorsports will be participating in the Martin Truex, Jr., Foundation and NASCAR Foundation’s Honor a Cancer Hero Campaign. Susan Mummert and Fannie Prince will ride on the driver’s- and passenger’s-side name rails, respectively, of Caruth’s HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevy Silverado.
  • Susan Memmert was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2017, months after their family had moved to South Carolina from Pennsylvania. The exciting new chapter of their lives filled with palm trees and salt air was brought to a halt by the grim reality of an uncertain future. Surgery was nearly immediately scheduled at Johns Hopkins, then months and months of recovery and chemotherapy followed. With her treatment happening in Maryland and the family remaining in South Carolina, they were apart for the remainder of 2017 and most of 2018. Many would have succumbed to such an immense physical and emotional toll, but thanks to the exceptional care by the folks at Hopkins, she survived and has been cancer free for over seven years. She’s now thriving and enjoying her new home. She’s become a tireless advocate for ovarian cancer awareness, while helping teach nursing students about the needs of ovarian cancer patients.
  • Fannie Prince was diagnosed with breast cancer and went through surgery to remove the cancerous tumors and radiation to prevent further spread. Throughout, she remained optimistic and prayerful for a good outcome. Her family was by her side throughout the surgery and treatment processes, and when she finally rang the bell.
  • The 23-year-old secured his second CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoff appearance after claiming victory at Nashville Superspeedway in May. He sits eighth on the playoff grid two points above the Round of 8 cutline.
  • Caruth has two prior CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at the 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval and secured a venue-best sixth-place result in his first Darlington appearance in 2023. Last season, he was competing for position in the top 10 until he was swept up in a multi-truck incident. The Winston-Salem (N.C.) State University graduate also owns one NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the track in August 2023 where he earned a 16th-place finish.
  • Through the 18-race CRAFTSMAN Truck Series regular season, the Washington, D.C., native registered one win, three top fives and nine top 10s. He has led 189 laps, tripling his 57 career laps led entering the year.
  • In the No. 71 team’s first playoff appearance in 2024, Caruth and Co. advanced to the Round of 8, but mechanical issues stalled their Championship 4 hopes in the season’s penultimate event at Martinsville Speedway.
  • With his first career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last season, Caruth became the third African-American driver to win a NASCAR National Touring Series race, joining 2015 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Wendell Scott and current Cup Series star Bubba Wallace.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • The blue and white HENDRICKCARS.COM colors will wrap Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-080. The truck has seen action six times, including a chassis-best third-place finish with Caruth in May at Texas Motor Speedway.

Rajah Caruth Quotes
What are you feeling as the playoffs kick off this weekend and how do you believe the intensity will ramp up?
“I like the excitement. It is cool to kick things off at Darlington and be in sync with the Cup guys. I’m just excited for the opportunity to be able to perform, and do so when it matters most. I’ve learned a lot over the last couple years, and I think it builds up to this opportunity and this final stretch of seven races. I’ve been close at Darlington the last two years, specifically in 2023. I don’t expect anything different. If anything, I expect to be running up front instead of third. Hopefully we have a good practice and qualifying session on Friday to help us start fast Saturday.”

You have talked about how you enjoy racing at Darlington and it suits your driving style, despite being one of the toughest tracks on the schedule. Why is Darlington a favorite for you?
“I think Darlington is a place that suits my driving style for how worn out it is and reflects the high speeds of a mile-and-a-half. The pavement reflects places like Myrtle Beach (Speedway), Florence (Motor Speedway), Richmond (Raceway) and Southern National (Motorsports Park). Those are places I raced early in my career. Darlington just clicked for me the first time I raced there. I’m excited to get out there this weekend and hopefully we can lock our No. 71 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado into the Round of 8.”

Atop the No. 71 Box – Crew Chief Kevin “Bono” Manion

  • Veteran crew chief Kevin “Bono” Manion has called five CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at Darlington Raceway. Last season, he led Nick Sanchez to the pole position and a runner-up finish.
  • The Boylston, Mass., native has stood atop the box for four NASCAR Xfinity Series events at “The Lady in Black,” collecting three top fives and four top 10s. Most recently, he called Carson Hocevar’s sixth-place result in May 2023. It marked the first of four appearances for Spire Motorsports’ part-time Xfinity Series entry.
  • Manion, a 31-year veteran of the sport, founded Spire Motorsports’ CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program alongside industry veteran Mike Greci in 2022. The team claimed victory in its second outing with driver William Byron at Martinsville Speedway.
  • The 53-year-old has racked up six Cup Series victories – including the 2010 Daytona 500 – 17 NASCAR Xfinity Series triumphs and 12 CRAFTSMAN Truck series wins. Manion is also one of 11 crew chiefs to have called wins across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.
  • In 2023, Manion became one of few to call a race in all three of NASCAR’s national series in a single season, all of which came under the Spire Motorsports umbrella. He led the part-time effort on the No. 7 Silverado in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, helped in limited starts for Carson Hocevar in the Xfinity Series and took the reigns during the second half of the Cup Series season for Ty Dillon and the No. 77 team.

Corey LaJoie – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Corey LaJoie will drive Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Gainbridge Chevrolet Silverado in the Sober or Slammer 200 at Darlington Raceway.
  • Friday’s 147-lap event will mark LaJoie’s eighth career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start and third of the season with Spire Motorsports. The 33-year-old has snagged two fifth-place finishes in as many 2025 starts.
  • The Concord, N.C., native has one prior CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start at Darlington. LaJoie started 29th and finished 16th in the May 2023 event with Spire Motorsports’ upstart CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program. Crew chief “Bono” Manion was atop the pit box for the No. 7 effort.
  • Last time out at Richmond (Va.) Raceway, LaJoie drove the No. 77 Gainbridge Silverado to a fifth-place finish from the 26th starting position. Crew chief Chad Walter decided to stay out as long as possible during the green-flag pit cycle in the Final Stage in hopes of catching a caution flag and gaining valuable track position. To the team’s credit, the yellow flag was displayed on Lap 200 while the No. 77 team was running fourth. LaJoie hit pit road during the caution period for four fresh tires and fuel and lined up fifth for the 35-lap sprint to the finish. He survived a physical restart to secure his second top-five result of the year.
  • The former Spire Motorsports NASCAR Cup Series driver owns 14 series starts at the 1.366-mile oval. Last September, LaJoie secured a venue-best ninth-place result in the prestigious Southern 500 at the wheel of the No. 7 Chili’s Chevrolet.
  • LaJoie is familiar with Victory Lane in the “Palmetto State.” In 2012, he powered his family-owned No. 07 to an ARCA Menards Series East victory at Greenville-Pickens Speedway. In four series starts at the famed half-mile, “Supershoe” collected one pole, one win, and two top fives.
  • The short-track stalwart finished fourth in a UARA STARS Late Model Series event at South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach Speedway in 2009. He bested current Cup Series star Bubba Wallace and Spire Motorsports Director of Vehicle Performance Matt McCall during the 150 lapper.
  • Founded in 2018, Gainbridge® is an insurtech subsidiary of Group 1001 that empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone, no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Its platform provides access to financial products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge® is headquartered in Zionsville, Ind. For more information, visit www.gainbridge.com or follow and connect with Gainbridge on X and LinkedIn.
  • LaJoie will pilot Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-088 on Saturday. In the truck’s most recent of two appearances, Andres Perez de Lara earned a chassis-best ninth-place result at Michigan International Speedway in June.

Corey LaJoie Quote
Coming off of your second top five in two starts, what is your outlook for the remainder of the season, including Darlington this Saturday?
“It is really cool to be two-for-two in top fives in my Spire Motorsports reunion, including my least favorite track, Richmond. We looked really good preparing in the simulator for Darlington, and Chad (Walter, crew chief) and the whole No. 77 team has been working really hard to build us a fast Gainbridge Silverado. I really enjoy racing at Darlington with how much history it holds. I have so many great memories there as a kid watching my dad race. As we finish off the year, I would hate to think we can’t go win a couple of these last seven races.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Chad Walter

  • Chad Walter has called five CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at Darlington Raceway. He secured a venue-best sixth-place finish at “The Lady in Black” with Rajah Caruth in 2023.
  • In NASCAR Xfinity Series competition, Walter has tallied two top-five and four top-10 finishes, highlighted by a fourth-place result in 2012 with Sam Hornish, Jr., at the controls.
  • Early in his career, the Albion, N.Y., native served as a pit crew member for fellow northeasterner Steve Park, including the March 2001 NASCAR Cup Series event at Darlington. Park led 164 laps and looked to be headed for the win until a late-race caution erased his three-plus-second lead. He was ultimately passed by Dale Jarrett and forced to settle for a runner-up finish. Fellow Spire Motorsports crew chief “Bono” Manion also served as the car chief on the No. 1 team that weekend.
  • Between NASCAR’s Xfinity Series and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, the Cornell University graduate has racked up six wins, 53 top fives and 132 top 10s.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win came on May 30, 2025, when Rajah Caruth took the checkered flag in the Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team also fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and an ARCA Menards Series Chevrolet in select events.

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