Taylor Learns Quickly To Dominate First Arlington Practice

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March 13, 2026

ARLINGTON, Texas (Friday, March 13, 2026) – Max Taylor was the star student in the opening practice for the Grand Prix of Arlington, leading the field by more than a second Friday as 24 drivers in the INDYCAR development series learned the new circuit at this inaugural event.

Taylor set a high bar for his rivals to match with his top lap of 1 minute, 39.8262 seconds in the No. 28 Susan G. Komen car fielded by Andretti Global on the 14-turn, 2.7-mile temporary circuit that winds around AT&T Stadium, home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, home of MLB’s Texas Rangers.

That lap, Taylor’s last in the 45-minute session, was 1.1205 seconds clear of his closest pursuer, rookie Tymek Kucharczyk, who stopped the clocks at 1:40.9467 in the No. 71 HMD Motorsports car.

“The track is bumpy; it’s got a lot of different pavement changes and undulations, elevation changes,” Taylor said. “So, it’s a really intense track. But it’s also really a blast once you get into the rhythm of it. Definitely one of my favorite street courses.”

Taylor, 18, from Greenwich, Connecticut, will be one of the favorites to win the pole during qualifying at 4:30 p.m. ET Saturday (FS2, FOX One, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls). He won the pole for the season-opening Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Feb. 28 and finished second to Nikita Johnson in the race March 1.

A 45-minute practice at 11:15 a.m. ET Saturday will precede qualifying. The 27-lap race is scheduled for 11 a.m. ET Sunday. FS2 will televise the practice, with the race on FS1. Coverage of both sessions also will be available on FOX One, the FOX Sports app and INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls.

Rookie Jack Beeton rebounded from an 11th-place finish at St. Petersburg to end up third in this session at 1:40.9504 in the No. 45 HMD Motorsports car. Myles Rowe was fourth at 1:40.9981 in the No. 99 ABEL Motorsports with Force Indy entry.

Lochie Hughes rounded out the top five at 1:41.0420 in the No. 26 Andretti Global car, as Andretti Global and HMD Motorsports each put two drivers into the top five.

St. Petersburg race winner Johnson was 14th at 1:41.8598 in the No. 21 Cape Motorsports Powered by ECR car.

Kyle Larson Wins High Limit Race Night 1 at LVMS Dirt Track

By

Briar Starr

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March 13, 2026

In the dawn of a new era for the High Limit Racing Sprint Car Series, which is co-owned by NASCAR star Kyle Larson and dirt superstar Brad Sweet, the series opened up its first start of the season with night 1 at the LVMS Dirt Track and provided thrilling action not only in the A-main but also in the heat races. At the end of the night, it was NASCAR Cup Series champion Larson who fended off a young racer in the making and Hendrick Motorsports developmental Corey Day in the waning laps of the 25-lap feature by 0.096 seconds.

37 entries were seen Thursday night, including defending High Limit Sprint Car champion Rico Abreu. Abreu, who recently competed for his own team in the past few years, made the transition over to Tony Stewart Racing during the off-season.

In the A-main feature, the No. 19 Brent Marks started on the pole, taking the inside row, and Spire Motorsports, Giovanni Scelzi, who piloted the No. 77 Chilis machine, took the outside row, lining up in the second position, led the field to green. Larson started in the fifth position.

Quickly, Thorson made the move on Marks to take second in the early going on Lap 1. However, both Thorson and Marks battled it out multiple times for the second spot, allowing Day to close in. With 19 to go, Day got past Thorson for third. Afterward, Day got stuck with Marks, who then saw eventual race winner Larson to insert himself in the picture, making it a three-race battle for the third position. At 14 to go, Larson made easy work of both Day and Marks, passing them and then set his eyes on race leader Scelzi. As he was doing so, Day eventually passed Marks for third and attempted to chase Larson down as well.

Shortly after the leaders passed the start/finish line with eight laps to go, Larson made the dive bomb move into Turn 1 and took the lead from Scelzi. The next lap later, Day got by Scelzi for second and tried battling with Larson for the lead. There were a few times that saw lap traffic get in Larson’s way, which then had Day right there in the picture. On the last lap of the race, Day went to the top side of Turns 3 and 4 and nearly got by Larson for the win, but ultimately came up 0.096 seconds short of the victory. Larson piloted the No. 57 Silva Motorsports entry for his 10th career High Limit Racing victory in a caution-free main event.

“It felt like we were going longer than 25 (laps) there,” Larson said in victory lane on the fronstretch. “I kept looking at the flagstand because I could feel some pressure from behind. The lapper in front of me, he was kind of changing his mind a couple of different times and I followed him. I knew I choked up my momentum. Like, I said, I was just counting the laps down.

Thankfully, it worked out. I saw a nose coming with two to go and the white flag. So I figured if it was Gio or Corey, they were building a run up top or something behind me through (Turns) 3 and 4. I also didn’t want to give up that distance into three because they could’ve split me. I thought the safest thing was to stay committed to what I was doing. Great car and cool to get back to victory lane with High Limit. Thanks to the fans for coming out, I look forward to the crowd getting bigger and bigger throughout the weekend.”

Despite coming up short, Day provided the fans with a thriller in the final few laps.

“No, I didn’t think I got him (Larson),” Day said in his post-race interview. “I didn’t think it was that close. I thought we had already crossed the line and dipped below him there. Yeah, that’s cool, but wished we would have been on the other side of it. Thanks to my guys. It’s always cool to come to the first race of the year and have a fast car and have a good run. Thanks to all my sponsors and partners. It’s going to be a fun year for me doing some full-time NASCAR stuff and still get to comeback to race with High Limit, and the team that I’ve done (Sprint Car) with for many years. A lot of fun.”

Larson, Day, Scelzi, Marks, Thorson, Timms, Abreu, Madsen, Kyle McFadden, and Reutzel rounded out the Top 10 finishers.

Heat race winners include Abreu, Marks, Timms, and Scelzi. The B-feature winner went to Tyler Courtney. Brent Marks won the dash race, which allowed him to start on the pole in the A-feature.

At the conclusion of night 1, Scelzi leads the Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing championship standings over Marks by three points.

Official Results Following Night 1 of High Limit Racing at the LVMS Dirt Track

Kyle Larson
Corey Day
Giovanni Scelzi
Brent Marks
Tanner Thorson
Ryan Timms
Rico Abreu
Kerry Madsen
James McFadden
Aaron Reutzel
Justin Sanders
Daison Pursley
Justin Peck
Austin McCarl
Sye Lynch
Tanner Holmes
Tyler Courtney
Hank Davis
Chase Randall
Danny Sams III
Hunter Schuerenberg
Brenham Crouch
Kaleb Montgomery
Tanner Carrick

GMG Racing Confirms Trio of 2026 IMSA Carrera Cup North America Entries Across All Three Competing Classes

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Official Release

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March 13, 2026

Full-Season Campaigns for John Capestro-Dubets in Pro and GMG Racing Founder and Team Driver James Sofronas in Pro-Am
Longtime GMG Racing Driver Kyle Washington Returns for Select Schedule of Carrera Cup Masters Class Races
GMG Racing Looks to Extend Winning Legacy as it Opens 25th Year of Competition Next Weekend at Sebring International Raceway in Season-Opening Carrera Cup Doubleheader

THERMAL, California (March 13, 2026) – GMG Racing, one of North America’s most successful sports car road racing operations, today announced a three-car entry in IMSA Porsche Carrera Cup North America for the team’s milestone 25th Anniversary racing season in 2026. The Southern California-based team headquartered at the Thermal Club near Palm Springs, fields a full-season campaign for drivers John Capestro-Dubets in the No. 7 GMG Racing Porsche 911 Cup and team founder James Sofronas in the No. 14 Mobil 1/GMG Racing Porsche 911 Cup. Longtime GMG driver Kyle Washington is also set to contest a select schedule of events this year in his No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 Cup.

The announcement comes as the team prepares for the season-opening Carrera Cup doubleheader next week, March 18 – 20, at Sebring International Raceway. The 2026 schedule features eight rounds across legendary American venues, including support races for Formula 1 at Miami and Circuit of The Americas (COTA), a one-off appearance with IndyCar at the Grand Prix of Long Beach and IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship race weekends at Sebring, Watkins Glen, Road America, Indianapolis and Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

While GMG Racing celebrates its 25th season of competition this year, the team surprisingly never raced in IMSA Carrera Cup before the 2023 finale at COTA. Sofronas swept that weekend’s Pro-Am races in his and the team’s series debut, a breakout performance that has seen him continue to win at least two races a season through last year. Sofronas has secured eight of the nine career Carrera Cup victories GMG Racing has captured the past three years, but he is confident Capestro-Dubets – best known as “JCD” – and Washington have what it takes to join him in adding to the tally in 2026.

“With their respective experience and non-stop commitment to improving their driving, I am super confident both JCD and Kyle will join me in contending for Carrera Cup class victories and podiums this year,” Sofronas said. “As Porsche’s top single-make racing series, the level of competition in Carrera Cup is immense and pushes us to be better as a team. We’ve had a taste of victory at several of the tracks on the calendar, and with the new Type 992.2 Porsche 911 Cup car debuting this season, there is new opportunity and challenge ahead. I’m looking forward to sharing that challenge with JCD and Kyle. Having JCD with us for the full season adds consistency and winning history to our program, and whenever Kyle is in the car, we know he’s a threat for the podium in the Masters class.”

Taking on the Carrera Cup Challenge in the top-tier Pro class, JCD has won races and championships in practically every sports car racing series he has ever contested. He has driven and coached for GMG Racing in recent seasons.

“Carrera Cup is undoubtedly one of the toughest series in the States,” Capestro-Dubets said. “With so many drivers moving on to IMSA WeatherTech and WEC, my goal this season is to clearly prove my value. The dream has always been a shot at a Rolex 24. At 37, I’m lining up against a grid of hungry juniors, so the challenge isn’t just about raw pace. I’m excited for this new chapter, and every lesson I learn on track this year is something I can eventually pass down to the drivers I mentor. The bumps there are no joke at Sebring, but it is always a dream come true to race at a track with so much heritage.”

Washington is on the brink of winning in Carrera Cup as a frequent visitor to the Masters class victory lane. A string of career third-place finishes, including at the Formula 1 support races in Miami and Montreal, are highlighted by a career-best second at COTA in 2024. He makes his 2026 debut in next month’s Carrera Cup doubleheader at Long Beach.

Next week’s season-opening races are available for viewing live on NBC’s streaming service Peacock as well as on IMSA.TV and IMSA’s YouTube Channel. The first 40-minute race starts at 3 p.m. EST on Thursday, March 19, while the second and final round is slated to go green at 5:45 p.m. EST on Friday, March 20.

About GMG Racing: Founded in 2001, GMG Racing quickly established itself as North America’s premier performance tuning facility. What began as a small 1,200 sq. ft. shop, maintaining two race cars, has grown into a state-of-the-art performance tuning, racing and service facility relocated last year to The Thermal Club and a 28,000 sq. ft. trackside motorsports facility. The staff, attention to detail and passion are what make GMG the choice of professionals and enthusiasts worldwide. GMG, in its early years, was located directly across the street from Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA). This close proximity allowed GMG to build a strong relationship with the legendary racing brand which has helped the company support its customers to the highest level possible. We have since won several Championships, not only with Porsche, but with Audi, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and McLaren. From club racing to Sebring, Daytona, Spa, Montreal, COTA and The Thermal Club, GMG can take you as far as you want to go. More information can be found at www.gmgracing.com.

NHRA’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONTINUES AT LUCAS OIL NHRA WINTERNATIONALS IN POMONA

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Official Release

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March 13, 2026

POMONA, Calif. (March 13, 2026) – As part of its 75th anniversary season, NHRA is celebrating at tracks across the country, including one of its most historic venues and races during the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals at the famed In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip on April 9-12.

Along with the milestone celebration in 2026, this year’s legendary event will be part of another monumental moment in NHRA history as the organization hosts its 1,000th Funny Car race.

From the first Funny Car win in 1966 to the 900th in 2021, the rich history of the Funny Car class will be celebrated at the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals as current drivers look to put their name in the NHRA history books. Legends from landmark races will all be represented in Pomona to add to the celebration, while the winner of the 1,000th Funny Car race will receive a special trophy to go along with the diamond 75th anniversary Wally.

Add in two rounds of qualifying on both Friday and Saturday – as well as the Mission #2Fast2Tasty bonus race on Saturday – and this year’s first visit to the historic track will be one of the biggest yet during NHRA’s milestone year. As part of NHRA’s yearlong 75th anniversary celebration, fans can expect multiple highlights at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, including:

An appearance from NHRA legend and six-time NHRA world champion Kenny Bernstein, in honor of his historic 310-mph pass at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in 1994.

On Friday, the first 4,000 fans in attendance will receive a special NHRA 75th anniversary Winternationals event poster.
Fans can check out the new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and 75th anniversary stage in Nitro Alley as all drivers try to claim a diamond 75rh anniversary Wally that will only be awarded in 2026.

In 2025, Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Clay Millican (Top Fuel) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) claimed Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals wins. This year’s race will be broadcast on FS1, with elimination coverage on Sunday, April 12, beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Hailing from southern California, past Funny Car world champ Beckman earned his fourth win from his home track last season when he took out Daniel Wilkerson. Beckman leads the charge for powerhouse team John Force Racing, which welcomed Alexis DeJoria and Funny Car rookie Jordan Vandergriff to the JFR stable. Two-time reigning world champ Austin Prock shocked NHRA fans this offseason when he moved to Tasca Racing, while past world champs Matt Hagan, Ron Capps, Cruz Pedregon and J.R. Todd will also be eyeing the 1000th Funny Car win.

Clay Millican, a Top Fuel fan-favorite, claimed his eighth career victory last season when he took out motorsports legend Tony Stewart in the final round to win for the first time in Pomona. Veteran Doug Kalitta secured his second world title at the end of the year, while other past Pomona winners include Antron Brown, Shawn Langdon, Justin Ashley and eight-time world champion Tony Schumacher. Josh Hart won in Gainesville to open 2026 in his first race with John Force Racing.

Greg Anderson, the winningest active NHRA driver, won his 16th race from the famed In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip last season over his KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn. The duo battled on the race track all season for the world championship, but it was Glenn who earned his first world title to finish the season. Anderson advanced to the final round in Gainesville, but Matt Hartford opened the year with the victory. Others to watch include Erica Enders, Aaron Stanfield and Cody Coughlin.

Along with racing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, fans will also be treated to racing action from the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series.

The Nitro Alley Stage is a huge attraction all weekend and is the main entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, and much more. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds and get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun.

Race fans at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying features qualifying at 1:30 and 4 p.m. PT on Friday, April 10, and the final two rounds on Saturday, April 11 at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, April 12. Television coverage includes eliminations on Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

To purchase tickets to the 2026 Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. Fans can get closer to the action with a Top Eliminator Club experience, offering the best seats in the house and a premium experience, as well as a members-only hospitality center, complimentary food and beverage, driver appearances, a premium view and more.

About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

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

JDX Racing Brings New Zealand’s Callum Hedge to Porsche Carrera Cup North America for 2026

By

Official Release

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March 13, 2026

Hedge joins multi-car program with a shift from open-wheel to sports car racing

LOVELAND, Colorado (March 13, 2026) – JDX Racing has added New Zealand’s Callum Hedge to its 2026 Porsche Carrera Cup North America driver line-up, where he’ll join recently announced returnee Sabré Cook in Pro class competition. The 22-year-old from Auckland makes a highly anticipated return to Porsche competition, bringing with him a champion’s pedigree and a wealth of international and North American experience.

Hedge arrives at JDX Racing following a successful foray into American open-wheel racing. After claiming the 2023 Formula Regional Americas Championship, he progressed to the Indy NXT series for the 2024 and 2025 seasons, securing multiple podium finishes and showcasing his adaptability on the demanding North American circuits. His move to JDX Racing marks a return to his sports car roots and Porsche one-make racing, where he also has found success.

Hedge delivered a standout performance in Australia, capturing the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia championship title at the same time he was earning his US open-wheel championship. Hedge scored four wins and 14 podium finishes over the season to claim the Pro class crown.

“I’m really looking forward to joining JDX Racing in 2026,” Hedge said. “I met Jeremy Dale many months back at Road America, and we kept in contact over the off season and managed to put together a program for this year. I’m really grateful for the belief Jeremy and Harrison Brix have for me with this opportunity. It’s been a while since I raced a GT car but I’m super excited to have a roof back over my head. We’ve had two very productive tests together with the 992.2 Porsche 911 Cup car and I’m looking forward to starting the season in just a few days at Sebring with the support of Byers Imports, Race Brew, Tony Quinn Foundation, Giltrap Group, Tasman Motorsports Group and so many others that are making this possible.”

The all-new Porsche 911 Cup (Type 992.2) represents a significant leap forward in the car’s evolution. Lighter and more powerful than its predecessor, the car features a revised 4.0-liter flat-six engine producing approximately 520 horsepower and updated aerodynamics. This technical package is complemented by the championship’s new Pirelli P Zero tires, which made their series debut at the official test at Sebring International Raceway earlier this month.

“We are excited to have Callum join us for the 2026 season,” Jeremy Dale, JDX Racing Team Principal said. “He is not only quick in the car, but he’s a proven race winner and championship winner. Those are special skills to bring to this fight. We have already had Callum in a car, and he has done an exceptional job with feedback and car development on the new Porsche 911 Cup. He’s also been a great teammate, and you can’t ask for more. We are all looking forward to starting the season at Sebring.”

Hedge will make his debut with JDX Racing with a doubleheader at the historic Sebring International Raceway, running in support of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring from March 18-20. Round One at Sebring is the opening round of the eight-round, 16-race championship that concludes at Circuit of the Americas in October.

JDX Racing has been a stalwart of Porsche Carrera Cup North America since its inception in 2021, and in the Porsche GT3 Cup championship prior to that. The team claimed the driver’s championship with Parker Thompson in 2022 and has been a multi-time winner in each season of the championship. Partners Byers Imports and Byers Porsche return to support JDX Racing during the 2026 season.

Each round of the Porsche Carrera Cup North America season is available live, through the subscription streaming service Peacock as well as IMSA.tv, and IMSA’s YouTube Channel, as well as Porsche Motorsport North America’s official YouTube, Facebook, X and Linkedin pages.

2026 Porsche Carrera Cup North America Season Schedule

March 18 – 20, Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, FL
April 17 – 19, streets of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
May 1 – 3, Miami International Autodrome, Miami, FL
June 25 – 27, Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, NY
July 30 – August 1, Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI
September 17 – 19, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis, IN
September 30 – October 2, Road Atlanta, Braselton, GA
October 23 – 25, Circuit of the Americas, Austin, TX

About JDX Racing:

Founded in 2008 and based outside of Denver, CO, JDX Racing represents the very best in professional motorsports. Competing in the IMSA sports car series, JDX Racing campaigns cars in events throughout North America. JDX Racing features world-class drivers, outstanding crew members and dynamic marketers from Champ Car, IndyCar, NASCAR, ALMS and the Champ Car Atlantic Championship series. For more information, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/jdxracing, on Twitter @JDXRACING and on Instagram @jdxracing.

TPC Racing Celebrates Solid USAC Mustang Cup Debut with Father-and-Son Podium Results Last Weekend at Sebring International Raceway

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Official Release

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March 13, 2026

Mike Levitas Records Dark Horse Legends Third-Place Finish Saturday and His Son Harris Levitas Drives the Same No. 36 TPC Racing/DSC Sport Ford Mustang Dark Horse R to the Dark Horse Division P3 on Sunday
Debuting Road Racing Driver Cliff Elliott Has Solid Start in His First Race with TPC Racing in the No. 65 TPC Racing/DSC Sport Ford Mustang Dark Horse R
Tom Kerr Matches Career-Best Cayman Class Finish in His No. 74 Porsche Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport while Shaun McKaigue Perseveres Through Saturday Rain for a Solid Finish in His No. 234 TPC Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup

SEBRING, Florida (March 13, 2026) – Alongside its established and championship-winning USAC Porsche Challenge program, TPC Racing launched its highly anticipated USAC Mustang Cup campaign in fine fashion last weekend at Sebring International Raceway, securing two podium finishes in the season-opening doubleheader. The multi-generational team effort saw Michael Levitas claim third in the Dark Horse Legends (DHL) class in Saturday’s Miles Cup race, followed by his son Harris Levitas matching the result with a third-place finish in the competitive Dark Horse (DH) class on Sunday. The father-and-son duo share the No. 36 TPC Racing/DSC Sport Ford Mustang Dark Horse R in the respective Saturday and Sunday sprints.

The weekend marked a significant milestone for TPC Racing as it launched its entry into Mustang competition with a three driver and two car Mustang Dark Horse R effort at Sebring. Team Founder Mike Levitas made the most of Saturday’s shortened race, which was checkered early due to a lightning storm in the area, by securing third-place honors in the DHL class. Levitas and his competitors had little more than two laps of green flag racing, but that was enough for the No. 36 Mustang driver to seal the P3 and finish sixth overall

The family affair continued on Sunday when Harris Levitas, who primarily serves as TPC Racing Director of Race Operations, climbed behind the wheel of the No. 36 machine for the Parnelli Cup race. Despite it being his first race start of any kind in several years, the younger Levitas demonstrated both his and the team’s depth of talent by bringing the car home in P3 in the top-tier Dark Horse class. He also finished fifth overall in the outright running order.

Debuting team driver Cliff Elliott also enjoyed a productive weekend in the No. 65 TPC Racing Mustang Dark Horse R. Competing in his first multi-car sports car race after a successful career in single-car competitions like the Optima Ultimate Street Car Challenge, Elliott used the two races to gain valuable experience and learn the nuances of side-by-side racing.

On the USAC Porsche Sprint Challenge front, TPC Racing’s Tom Kerr delivered a top performance for the second consecutive year on the 3.74-mile Sebring circuit, matching his career-best finish in the Masters Class with a hard-fought sixth-place result behind the wheel of the No. 74 Porsche Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport. Kerr secured the first P6 result in last year’s season opener at Sebring.

Also making his Porsche Sprint Challenge 2026 season debut was another longtime TPC Racing driver, Shaun McKaigue, in his No. 234 TPC Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. Returning to action in the Masters Class, McKaigue rebounded from a cut tire in Friday’s opening GT3 Cup sprint to record a lead-lap finish just shy of the top-10 in a competitive 26-car Masters division field. The solid race two results also included a 19th overall showing in the combined class field of 37 entries. McKaigue closed out the weekend by joining coach and co-driver Louis-Philippe Dumoulin for a top-10 Pro-Am class showing in Sunday’s season-opening USAC Porsche Endurance Challenge race in the No. 234.

Next up for TPC Racing is the team’s 2026 debut in the IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America championship’s season-opening weekend of competition at Sebring, March 19 – 20, during the 74th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring race weekend.

Harris Levitas, TPC Racing Director of Race Operations; Driver – No. 36 TPC Racing/DSC Sport Mustang Dark Horse R: “It is just amazing to be here with Ford and the Mustang Dark Horse R, which is an incredible machine. To step on the podium in our debut with this program – and my first race in several years – not once but twice is a testament to the preparation and dedication of the entire TPC Racing team. Ford is absolutely in the right place with the right product. It is incredible to be back racing, and to do it at Sebring with TPC Racing and our partners at DSC Sport is special. To come away with podiums in our debut weekend shows the potential of this program. Cliff Elliott also opened some eyes with his big jump from single-car track challenge events to multi-car road racing in Mustang Challenge. Door-to-door and side-by-side competition is clearly coming to him very quickly. We’re just getting started with the Ford Racing campaign, but our decades of dedication and development with our Porsche program absolutely continues as strong as ever. We had two entries in USAC Porsche Sprint Challenge at Sebring, and Tom Kerr came out swinging for the second-straight year at the opener with a career-best result. Tom matched his previous career-high result of sixth last year at Sebring in Friday’s first Sprint Challenge Cayman GT4 race, which is a testament to the hard work and testing he has put in over the off-season. It’s also great to have Shaun McKaigue back with us and he shined in Saturday’s wet final sprint with a near top-10 showing in the packed Masters Class in the Porsche GT3 Cup race. With both the Goldcrest and the Blue Oval, and our fantastic lineup of drivers, we are looking at a banner year in 2026.”

Michael Levitas, Driver – No. 36 TPC Racing/DSC Sport Mustang Dark Horse R: “We learned more about this car in a shortened race Saturday due to a little bit of lightning. We lapped mostly under caution before the red flag ended the race, so we kind of kept our Dark Horses on a trot, not a full thoroughbred pace! We really only had two laps of racing but you can tell based on just that this is going to be a competitive championship this year. It was too short but really good! I think the potential of the Mustang program is just unlimited. For what was really just a two-lap lap shootout, it was a lot of fun. I was hoping we would stay green or go back green, but at the end of the day we are so happy and so satisfied to come home on the podium in our very first race in the series. I wish nothing but good success for the series, and we’re so excited to be a part. I think the growth potential is just unlimited. It’s a great platform, great people, great sanctioning body, and I just can’t say enough. And huge thanks to TPC Racing for everybody, from the engineering team even to the great chef that joined us this weekend, to everybody involved. It was an absolutely successful start and we couldn’t ask for more. I have to put out a shout to Cliff. Here’s a guy that’s never been involved in professional racing, a semi pro racer, and really with no experience competing with a road racing sanctioning body in an organized, multi-car race. To be invited and welcomed the Mustang Cup series in the Dark Horse is just fabulous. He had a great debut and made huge progress this weekend. I knew my son and co-driver Harris Levitas would be one to watch out for in the Mustang. It was his first race in several years but he put on a bit of stampede straight to the podium. I’m so happy and so proud of him, honored to be with him and proud of him for everything he does with the race team. Look, he does all of this in running the team and can drive too! It doesn’t get a lot better than being able to share this experience with my son.”

Cliff Elliott, Driver – No. 65 TPC Racing Mustang Dark Horse R: “It’s definitely exciting. It’s a whole new atmosphere for me, and I think I’m picking it up, but wheel-to-wheel competition is a little different. I love it and the car is just phenomenal. It’s set up very well. And it sticks! It sticks so much better than what I’m used to. So, that’s the big adjustment, but Mike has done a hell of a job with it and setting it up. I’m happy with the car overall. It’s new for me, but I don’t think I’m going to have any problem picking it up when I get some more time in. The stopping power is incredible, and the suspension holds everything. It’s just solid.”

Tom Kerr, Driver, No. 74 TPC Racing Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport: “I think the season started out well because we had a lot of testing. I don’t got much seat time, so we came down two days before the actual test days, and between me and Mike Skeen, who’s an amazing coach, I had the chance to really dial in before the whole season started. It was everything because I really hadn’t been in the car in like forever, but it was really dialed in. The brakes are good, the car is balanced, and my coach Mike has helped me a huge amount. We had fun and no crashes! This is my emotional and physical release from my medical profession as a vascular surgeon all week.”

Shaun McKaigue, Driver, No. 234 TPC Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup: “It’s always a lot of fun getting back together with the TPC Racing guys. The crew has been fantastic. They gave me a great car, we had a lot of fun and even did the Porsche Endurance Challenge race on Sunday. Friday’s first race was a little disappointing with the tire going down, but that happens. Saturday in the wet was a little bit tricky, but we finished up and kept it on the island, which I suppose is the best way to put it after the run of yellow flag laps. It was really wet, just a lot of rain, and it started out where it was raining in a portion of the track and then dry in another. And then it turned into really wet, and the yellow flag laps basically wrapped it up.”

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

About DSC Sport: Founded in 2011, DSC Sport quickly established itself as an industry leader in dynamic suspension control, developing and offering best in class suspension solutions for a wide range of luxury and performance vehicles. The company designs and manufactures advanced controller units that enhance the performance and handling of sports cars, luxury sedans and lightweight trucks for both track and road use. The company frequently works with the affiliated TPC Racing, a race-winning and multiple championship-winning sports car racing team, to gather data and learnings from a race weekend environment that directly are used in the company’s ongoing development of performance hardware and software solutions for track and street vehicle applications. Learn more at www.DSCsport.com.

From the Track to the Street: How Motorsports Technology Revolutionized Automotive Paint Protection

By

SM

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March 13, 2026

At speeds exceeding 200 mph, a racetrack transforms into an exceptionally hostile environment for automotive exteriors. High-performance vehicles competing in premier motorsport series, such as NASCAR or IndyCar, endure constant, aggressive bombardment. These hazards include high-velocity rubber marbling from degrading racing slicks, fragmented asphalt, and granular track debris kicked up by leading vehicles.

When a vehicle is traveling at terminal velocity, these micro-impacts deliver massive kinetic energy capable of compromising traditional automotive paint within milliseconds. Beyond the obvious aesthetic degradation, surface imperfections have profound engineering implications for motorsports.

They disrupt laminar airflow across the vehicle’s body, subtly increasing aerodynamic drag and reducing overall fuel efficiency—factors that can dictate the outcome of a race. Furthermore, preserving the pristine condition of complex sponsor liveries is a critical commercial necessity for racing teams.

Brand visibility is directly tied to the clarity of the vehicle’s exterior throughout a grueling event. The pursuit of aerodynamic perfection and structural integrity under extreme thermal and physical stress necessitated a significant leap in surface protection technology.

The Engineering Behind Modern Paint Protection Film (PPF)

The transition from rudimentary clear bras of the late 20th century to advanced polyurethane coatings represents a triumph of modern materials engineering. Modern advancements in polymer science have drastically improved the durability of vehicle exteriors against extreme environmental elements.

Data from industry-leading flexippf indicates that high-grade polyurethane layers can withstand up to 5,000 hours of direct UV radiation while maintaining 98% UV blockage without yellowing. This level of material endurance ensures that both track vehicles and daily drivers remain shielded from high-speed debris and chemical degradation.

At the core of this industrial-grade standard is Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). Unlike standard vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is prone to brittleness and rapid thermal degradation, TPU is engineered for high-tensile flexibility.

The elastomeric nature of this material provides exceptional tensile strength, effectively absorbing and dispersing point-load impacts from gravel or track debris. Modern high-grade films undergo rigorous engineering evaluations before reaching the consumer market, focusing on specific performance metrics:

Tensile Elongation: The ability of the film to stretch without tearing during installation on complex geometric curves.
Puncture Resistance: Measured physical resistance against high-velocity kinetic projectiles.
Optical Clarity: Ensuring zero light distortion or “orange peel” texture over high-gloss finishes.
Hydrophobicity: The integration of low surface energy topcoats to actively repel water, oil, and track rubber.

Self-Healing Properties and Micro-Abrasions

One of the most defining and technologically advanced characteristics of high-tier PPF is its self-healing capability. This is a direct function of advanced polymer chain mobility engineered into the top layer.

When subjected to micro-abrasions, swirl marks, or superficial scratching, the elastomeric polymers within the film’s topcoat are temporarily displaced rather than permanently severed. The application of moderate heat stimulates the molecular memory of the TPU.

This thermal activation can be introduced through direct ambient sunlight, a commercial heat gun, or even the radiant energy generated by a high-performance engine. Upon thermal activation, the polymer chains undergo a phase of rapid realignment, reverting to their original, baseline configuration.

This self-leveling process effectively erases superficial scratches and maintains a microscopically smooth aerodynamic surface.

Translating Track Durability to Daily Drivers

The environmental hazards faced during a standard highway commute closely mimic the abrasive conditions of a professional racing circuit, albeit over a prolonged timeline. Over a standard five-year lifecycle, bare automotive paint is subjected to relentless degradation.

Vehicles must withstand constant oxidation, highway rock chips, and severe chemical etching from acid rain, road salts, or biological contaminants. Upgrading to track-proven protection strategies shifts the paradigm of routine vehicle maintenance from reactive correction to proactive preservation.

For insights into how track-level dynamics influence vehicle performance, reviewing recent NASCAR cup series technical advancements highlights the universal importance of an unblemished aerodynamic profile. When comparing surface protection methods, the differences in engineering become starkly apparent.

Standard car wax offers a temporary, sacrificial organic layer, while modern TPU-based films provide a semi-permanent, physical barrier.

UV Resistance and Thermal Control

Beyond physical impact deflection, advanced polyurethane films act as a critical shield against ultraviolet (UV) degradation. Prolonged exposure to solar radiation catalyzes the breakdown of factory paint binders.

This inevitably leads to structural oxidation, clear coat peeling, and severe color fading. High-grade surface protections are rigorously engineered to block harmful UVA and UVB spectra, preserving the chemical integrity of the paint.

Furthermore, when these protective technologies are combined with advanced window films, the IR rejection (Infrared) properties significantly lower interior cabin temperatures. This comprehensive thermal control mitigates the risk of dashboard cracking and protects sensitive electronic components from extreme heat cycling.

Key Takeaways

Area	Key Takeaway	Impact/Data
Material	Transition to TPU from PVC	Absorbs high-velocity kinetic impacts
Durability	Implement high-grade UV shields	Endures 5,000 hours; 98% UV blockage
Maintenance	Leverage heat-activated polymer topcoats	Erases micro-abrasions automatically
Future R&D	Integrate core matrix nanotechnology	Obsoletes secondary ceramic topcoats

The Future of Automotive Surface Preservation

The next frontier in high-performance vehicle protection is intrinsically tied to rapid advancements in material science at the nanoscopic level. Emerging manufacturing technologies are increasingly integrating nanotechnology and inherent hydrophobicity directly into the core matrix of the polyurethane film.

This structural evolution is designed to eliminate the need for secondary, aftermarket ceramic topcoats, creating a unified protective layer. As environmental regulations push the automotive sector toward sustainable manufacturing, the chemical composition of surface coatings is rapidly adapting.

According toreports from Forbes on automotive industry trends, the shift towards eco-friendly materials and advanced nanotechnology will redefine how protective layers are synthesized, reducing environmental impact without compromising aerodynamic efficiency on or off the track.

The ongoing evolution of these materials, much like the meticulous maintenance of elite racing sponsor liveries, ensures the bridge between motorsports engineering and consumer vehicle preservation will continue to strengthen. The street vehicles of tomorrow will inherently benefit from the rigorous crucible of today’s professional racetracks.

Why Companies like Freedom Holding Invest in Strategic Sports

By

SM

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March 13, 2026

Recently, financial institutions have expanded their influence beyond banking and traditional markets by investing in intellectual and cultural initiatives. One good example is the growing support for chess and other strategic sports, such as esports, from companies such as Freedom Holding, founded by Timur Turlov. Investing in these analytical sports demonstrates how effective company leadership can drive the growth and expansion of both sports and education.

The Clear Connection

Based on initial thoughts, one might think that finance and strategic sports exist entirely in different worlds. However, both require similar trains of thought. This includes developing strategies, planning, and anticipating outcomes several steps ahead. Successful investors must be able to evaluate information, manage risk, and think in the long term, skills that are also required in such sports.

Because of the clear similarities, many investors consider it a worthwhile investment to support the growth of programs such as youth chess, world tournaments, and esports events, helping more people become exposed to the skills required in finance.

The Everlasting Appeal of Chess

Chess is easily in the top five most recognized strategy competition games. For centuries, chess has been grouped with critical thinking, strategic planning, and discipline. The worldwide popularity of chess continues to grow and expand thanks to international tournaments, online platforms and events, and educational programs.

Corporate support, like that from Freedom Holding, helps sustain the aforementioned initiatives by funding tournaments and providing visibility. Oftentimes, organizations that sponsor chess events focus on the connections between strategic thinking during play and how it correlates to professional environments, leading to potential internships down the road.

The Rise of Esports

Alongside chess, competitive gaming has emerged as another magnificent arena where strategy and discipline are necessary. Esports not only teaches many of the same skills needed in finance as chess does, but can also focus on working flawlessly as part of a team under stressful conditions.

Competitive games require players to process information quickly and implement complex strategies to gain an edge over their opponents. The unknown factor has helped esports evolve, attract millions of viewers, and secure significant corporate investment.

It’s no secret that the youth are drawn to screens and games. Esports allows companies to pursue innovation and provide kids and adults with activities that reward skill and strategic thinking.

Encouraging the Next Generation

Both chess and esports share many characteristics and attract young participants. It would be foolish to ignore the cognitive benefits of both sports, and many schools have already begun implementing strategy games as extracurricular programs.

When companies support these activities, like Freedom Holding, they not only enhance their reputations but also contribute to education and skill development. Youth who are afforded the opportunity to learn and grow professionally often succeed and become successful members of society.

What Lies Ahead for Strategic Competition

As intellectual sports continue to grow, the connection between them and professional success is clear. Companies like Freedom Holding are often motivated to participate and invest because they have a broad vision to encourage innovation, boost strategic thinking, and endorse lifelong learning.

Leader Timur Turlov represents one of many businessmen and businesses that are part of a growing trend of recognizing the value of intellectual competition. Investments create opportunities for talented individuals and promote lifelong skills. In our new tech-centric world, good analytical thinking is one of the core components of success. For both the participants and sponsors of these sports events, they offer much more than entertainment. Intellectual sports build the foundations for the strategic thinkers of tomorrow.

AM Racing NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Las Vegas Motor Speedway March Preview

By

Official Release

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March 13, 2026

AM Racing | NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series
Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway | LiUNA! O’Reilly Series Race

Fast Facts

Driver: Nick Sanchez
Primary Partner(s): Paynuity
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Edward “Dewey” Townsend
Spotter: Adam Fournier
2026 Driver Points Position: 21st
2026 Owner Points Position: 22nd
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines

Notes of Interest:

● Season Four, Full Throttle: AM Racing will embark on its fourth full-schedule season in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026 with driver Nick Sanchez competing in the full 33-race schedule, continuing with Saturday afternoon’s LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway.

● Future Focused: In early February, AM Racing announced the signing of NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series winner Nick Sanchez to pilot the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang, beginning with the 2026 season-opener at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on February 14, 2026.

Nick Sanchez will make his debut with AM Racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026, joining the Ford Racing camp after previously competing with Chevrolet.

The Miami, Fla., native arrives at AM Racing following his rookie campaign in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2025, where he continued to develop his resume as one of NASCAR’s rising young drivers.

Sanchez, 25, arrives on the scene at AM Racing after a 33-race stint driving for Big Machine Racing.

● Fueled by Paynuity: Paynuity will continue its new partnership with Nick Sanchez and AM Racing this weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, serving as the title partner of the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang for Saturday’s 200-lap race.

Paynuity empowers businesses and financial institutions by providing best-in-class financial technology and customer service with a unified, enterprise-grade, global payments ecosystem.

Its innovative digital transaction processing platform enables direct-to-bank settlement for peer-to-peer and/or merchant-to-merchant transactions by providing seamless end-to-end payments and banking services for merchants and banks alike – the nexus of payment processing.

With more than 58 different payment networks and direct card brand associations on its payment switch and routing platform, Paynuity provides plug-and-play solutions for credit/debit card issuers and/or merchant acquirers by enabling direct access to thousands of global banks and card associations to facilitate merchant services, card issuing, and digital banking.

After experiencing firsthand the exposure and engagement generated through its NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut, Paynuity recognized the value of aligning with a competitive, Playoff-caliber organization competing on the sport’s national stage.

● Traveling in Style: Continuing their new affiliation with AM Racing this weekend in Las Vegas is Travel Curious, a leading B2B travel technology provider in the experiences industry.

Travel Curious’s Unified Experiences Platform™ enables hotels, travel providers and loyalty programs to seamlessly integrate curated experiences into their offerings, helping partners drive differentiation, deepen customer engagement and unlock incremental value.

Serving as the unifying infrastructure connecting distinctive supply — including live entertainment, major league sporting events, theme parks, tours, attractions and other immersive experiences — Travel Curious connects global demand through a fully integrated, end-to-end technology platform.

● Nick Sanchez O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Las Vegas Motor Speedway Stats: Saturday’s first of two 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series trips to Sin City will mark Sanchez’s fourth career start at the 1.5-mile layout.

In his previous three starts, Sanchez has delivered a NOAPS track-best of fifth after starting fifth in the 2025 edition of the Focused Health 302 for Big Machine Racing.

Additionally, Sanchez has delivered three top-20 finishes and an average NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series finish of 12.3.

Sanchez, the former ARCA Menards Series champion, also has two NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

● Nick Sanchez NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Career Stats: Entering Las Vegas, Sanchez has 45 career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts to his credit, highlighted by one win, eight top-five and 14 top-10 finishes, with a championship-best result of 11th in the standings during the 2025 season.

Sanchez earned his first career NOAPS series victory in his freshman season in a thrilling summer finish at EchoPark (Ga.) Speedway, where he started 11th and hustled to the front, leading 18 laps before edging fellow rookie Carson Kvapil for the checkered flag by .104 seconds.

In addition to the 45 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, he has achieved 47 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts and 60 career starts across the ARCA Menards Series platforms.

● AM Racing NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Overview at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: This weekend’s LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race will mark AM Racing’s seventh and eighth career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series appearances at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, nestled near downtown Las Vegas, Nevada.

In the team’s six previous outings in the Nevada desert, their best track performance came last spring when Harrison Burton finished eighth after qualifying his No. 25 Dead On Tools Ford Mustang 18th.

Collectively, AM Racing holds an average finish of 18.3 in its NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series efforts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, highlighted by three top-15 results.

Last year, in his fifth and 30th start with the team, Burton added eighth and 14th-place finishes, respectively, to the organization’s Las Vegas résumé.

On intermediate tracks measuring between 1.0 and 2.0 miles, the Statesville, N.C.-based organization has amassed 47 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, recording two top-five and nine top-10 finishes, with an average finish of 19.1.

● Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway | GOVX 200 Race Recap: The 1.0-mile Phoenix Raceway opened NASCAR’s West Coast swing with Nick Sanchez and AM Racing looking to deliver their second top-10 finish of the season.

After practicing his No. 25 AM Racing Ford Mustang inside the top-10 during the 50-minute practice session on Friday, Sanchez posted the 19th-fastest lap in qualifying, giving the team solid track position for Saturday afternoon’s 200-lap race.

From the drop of the green flag, Sanchez battled the handling of his race car during the short run but began working his way back through the field as the race continued under green-flag conditions.

Unfortunately, Sanchez later suffered a battery failure, costing the team valuable track position and laps to the field.

Making diligent repairs, the team hustled to return Sanchez to the track.

Several laps down and out of contention for a respectable finish, the team utilized the remainder of the race as a test session in preparation for their return to Avondale in October.

Despite their efforts to rebound, the team ultimately finished 35th at the checkered flag.

● Thanks For Your Support: With 12 percent of the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season complete, AM Racing and Nick Sanchez would like to thank their associate marketing partners for their support: AIRBOX Air Purifier, Better Compute Works, Blue Wolf Products, Castle Products, Eagle Rentals, Flying Circle, MAR CARIBE LINE, Mechanix Wear, No Days Off Premium Water, Race to Stop Suicide, Racing Radios, Travel Curious, Volt Batteries and WIX Filters.

● From the Pit Box: Guiding Sanchez as crew chief of the No. 25 AM Racing Ford Mustang is the newly appointed crew chief Edward “Dewey” Townsend.

On Saturday night, the gifted engineer will be crew chief for his fifth career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race and his first at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

In his previous four O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, he has collected one top-five and one top-10 finish (EchoPark Speedway — February 2026).

● Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit their Facebook page (Team AM Racing), or follow them on Instagram and X | Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.

For more on Nick Sanchez, please visit shopnickracing.com, like his Facebook page (Nick Sanchez), or follow him on Instagram (@nicksanchez080) and X | Twitter (@Nicksanchez080).

Nick Sanchez Quoteboard:

On Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “Las Vegas is a track I’ve always enjoyed racing at, and having a top-five finish there last October definitely gives me some confidence heading back.

“Even though that result came with a different team, it shows what I’m capable of at that track. AM Racing has also built a solid track record at Las Vegas, so hopefully we can unload with good speed in our No. 25 Ford Mustang and put ourselves in position to run up front.”

On Keys to Success at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “The biggest key at Las Vegas is balance over the long run. The track has a lot of speed and the surface can really change throughout the race, so making sure our No. 25 AM Racing Ford Mustang stays consistent over a run is important.

“If we can qualify well, keep up with the adjustments and maintain track position, I think we’ll put ourselves in a good spot by the end of the day.”

On Phoenix Raceway Finish: “Phoenix definitely wasn’t the finish we deserved, but I’m really proud of the effort from everyone on the No. 25 AM Racing team.

“We had a car capable of running inside the top 10 most of the race, so that gives us a lot of confidence moving forward. Sometimes things outside your control happen, but the speed we showed proves we’re still heading in the right direction.”

On 2026 Season Outlook: “I’m really encouraged by the direction our AM Racing team is heading this season. The third-place finish at EchoPark Speedway showed what we’re capable of when everything comes together.

“Our goal now is to keep building on that momentum, stay consistent each week and put ourselves in position to contend for more top finishes as the season progresses.”

No. 52 AM Racing Team:

Driver: Daniel Dye

Primary Partner(s): Champion Container

Crew Chief: Matt Lucas

Spotter: Frank Deiny

2026 Driver Points Position: N/A

2026 Owner Points Position: 36th

Engine: Roush-Yates Engines

● Season Four, Full Throttle x2: AM Racing will embark on its fourth full-time season in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026, with a second entry scheduled to compete on a part-time basis, including Saturday afternoon’s LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway.

This weekend will mark the fifth time in the team’s history that AM Racing has fielded a second entry in NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition.

● Future Focused: In early February, AM Racing announced the addition of NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series driver Daniel Dye to pilot the team’s No. 52 entry throughout the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season.

The effort began with the season-opening race at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on February 14, 2026, and continues this weekend in the heart of Sin City in Las Vegas, Nevada, for the first of two races at the popular intermediate track this season.

Dye, 22, a native of DeLand, Fla., joins AM Racing after a full-season stint with Kaulig Racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, where he earned eight top-10 finishes, including a pair of career-best seventh-place results at EchoPark Speedway and Martinsville Speedway.

The former ARCA Menards Series race winner is also contesting the full 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule, driving the No. 10 truck for Kaulig Racing.

● Trusting in Champion: For the third consecutive race, Champion Container will serve as the primary partner of Dye’s No. 52 machine for Saturday afternoon’s LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race.

Champion Container, established in 1968, is a leading distributor of packaging containers in the Northeast, serving industries including chemical, paint, and pharmaceutical.

The company’s extensive product range includes bulk containers, drums, cans, pails, boxes and more.

Through its partnership with Dye, Champion Container has been instrumental in the growth of the Race to Suicide initiative, a program spearheaded by the driver to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health.

With Champion Container’s commitment to the cause, the initiative has evolved from a regional outreach effort into a nationally recognized platform, leveraging the company’s resources and visibility to amplify its message and broaden its reach nationwide.

● Racing for a Cause: Champion Container and Daniel Dye are using their platform in motorsports to drive meaningful change off the track.

Through its partnership with Dye, Champion Container has been instrumental in the growth of the Race to Suicide initiative, a program spearheaded by the driver to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health.

With Champion Container’s commitment to the cause, the initiative has evolved from a regional outreach effort into a nationally recognized platform, leveraging the company’s resources and visibility to amplify its message and broaden its reach nationwide.

● Daniel Dye O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Las Vegas Motor Speedway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race will mark Dye’s fifth NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at the iconic 1.5-mile speedway.

In his previous four starts, Dye has delivered a NOAPS track-best of 12th twice, most recently in the 2025 edition of the LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race in March for Kaulig Racing.

Additionally, Dye has delivered three top-20 finishes and an average NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series finish of 15.5.

Dye, a former winner of the prestigious Comcast Award, has also made two starts in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series.

● Daniel Dye NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Career Stats: Entering Las Vegas, Dye has 47 career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts to his credit, highlighted by eight top-10 finishes, with a championship-best result of 20th in the standings during the 2025 season.

In addition to the 47 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, he has achieved 49 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts and 43 career starts across the ARCA Menards Series platforms.

● AM Racing NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Overview at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: This weekend’s LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race will mark AM Racing’s seventh and eighth career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series appearances at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, nestled near downtown Las Vegas, Nevada.

In the team’s six previous outings in the Nevada desert, their best track performance came last spring when Harrison Burton finished eighth after qualifying his No. 25 Dead On Tools Ford Mustang 18th.

Collectively, AM Racing holds an average finish of 18.3 in its NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series efforts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, highlighted by three top-15 results.

Last year, in his fifth and 30th start with the team, Burton added eighth and 14th-place finishes, respectively, to the organization’s Las Vegas résumé.

On intermediate tracks measuring between 1.0 and 2.0 miles, the Statesville, N.C.-based organization has amassed 47 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, recording two top-five and nine top-10 finishes, with an average finish of 19.1.

● Thanks For Your Support: With 12 percent of the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season complete, AM Racing and Daniel Dye would like to thank their associate marketing partners for their support: AIRBOX Air Purifier, Blue Wolf Products, Castle Products, Eagle Rentals, Flying Circle, Kix Country 98.7FM, Mechanix Wear, No Days Off Premium Water, Orlando Longwood Auto Auction, Race to Stop Suicide, Racing Radios, Solar Fit, Volt Batteries and WIX Filters.

● From the Pit Box: Guiding Dye as crew chief of the No. 52 AM Racing Ford Mustang is veteran crew chief Matt Lucas.

Saturday’s race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway will mark Lucas’ 118th career start as a crew chief in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and his second at the 1.5-mile speedway.

In his previous 117 starts in the series, Lucas has recorded two wins, 22 top-five finishes and 40 top-10 results.

The season’s fifth race will also mark Lucas’ first NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series appearance at Las Vegas since 2017, when he earned the pole position and guided his team to a seventh-place finish.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit their Facebook page (Team AM Racing), or follow them on Instagram and X | Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.

For more on Daniel Dye, please visit danieldyeracing.com, like his Facebook page (Daniel Dye Racing), or follow him on Instagram (@danieldye43) and X | Twitter (@danieldye43).

Daniel Dye Quoteboard:

On Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “Las Vegas is a really fun track to race at because of the speed and the different lines you can run as the race goes on.

The key will be keeping up with the track conditions and keeping our No. 52 Champion Container Ford Mustang balanced throughout the run. If we can execute and stay out of trouble, I think we can have a strong weekend.”

On Goals for Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “The goal this weekend at Las Vegas is to keep building momentum with our No. 52 AM Racing team.

“It’s a track where track position and long-run speed are really important, so if we can stay consistent, execute on pit road and keep our car balanced throughout the race, we should be in position for a good result.”

On Phoenix Raceway Finish: “Phoenix was a solid step forward for our No. 52 Champion Container — AM Racing Ford Mustang team. Coming away with a top-20 finish gives us something to build on as we continue to learn and improve with each race.

“Hopefully, we can take that momentum with us to Las Vegas this weekend and keep moving in the right direction.”

Race Information:

The LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race (200 laps | 300 miles) is the fifth of thirty-three (33) NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races on the 2026 schedule. Practice will occur on Sat., March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. Qualifying will immediately follow, beginning at 10:05 a.m. The field will take the green flag later in the day, shortly after 2:30 p.m. (5:30 p.m. ET), with live coverage on The CW Network, the Performance Racing Network (Radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (PT).

About AM Racing:

AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multifaceted motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.

Established in December 2015, the organization prides itself on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.

Entering its 11th year of competition, AM Racing will compete across NASCAR’s national and developmental ranks during the 2026 season.

Young’s Motorsports Las Vegas Motor Speedway NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Team Preview

By

Official Release

-

March 13, 2026

Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series
Las Vegas Motor Speedway | LiUNA! O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race

Fast Facts

No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Team:
Driver: Ryan Ellis
Primary Partner(s): Tablo TV
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro
Crew Chief: Eddie Troconis
2026 Driver Points Position: 25th
2026 Owner Points Position: 28th
Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing

Notes of Interest:

● Year Three, Driven Forward: In November 2025, Ryan Ellis was announced as Young’s Motorsports’ full-time driver in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series as the organization enters its third season of competition.

In a significant step for 2026, Young’s Motorsports will transition its flagship No. 02 — long synonymous with the organization’s success in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series — to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series full-time, underscoring the team’s continued growth at the national level.

Ellis will pilot the No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro across the full 33-race schedule, continuing with Saturday afternoon’s The LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway and culminating with the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Championship Race at Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway in November.

● About Ryan: A respected veteran in the NASCAR garage, Ellis joins Young’s Motorsports with more than a decade of experience across NASCAR’s national ranks, including competition in the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.

The 2026 season will mark Ellis’ fourth full-time campaign in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

The 35-year-old Virginia native is coming off his first career NASCAR top-10 finish in 2025 and looks to build on that momentum while continuing to expand his résumé, which includes 166 career starts in series competition.

Known for his consistency, professionalism, and versatility both behind the wheel and in the garage, Ellis aims to apply his experience to elevate Young’s Motorsports’ competitive presence in its third season of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition.

● All-Aboard!: For the fifth of 33 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races this season, Young’s Motorsports welcomes back Tablo TV as the primary partner on the No. 02 Chevrolet Camaro for Saturday’s 200-lap event.

Tablo provides fans with an affordable way to access live, local broadcast television — including racing and other major sporting events — without a monthly subscription.

Through a simple setup that includes a Tablo device and antenna, viewers can enjoy major networks such as NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, ION and The CW, along with recording functionality and multi-device streaming capability.

With just a one-time device purchase of about $100, an antenna, internet connection and the free Tablo TV app, customers can watch live, local broadcast coverage of racing, local news, live sports, classic shows and more for free.

Families can stream on multiple devices at once, making it easy to catch the big race in one room and a show in another. Simple, affordable, and endlessly entertaining — Tablo TV brings America’s most popular TV back to fans for free.

All NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races will be broadcast live on The CW, and practices and qualifying can be streamed on The CW App. The CW can be watched, paused and recorded on Tablo TV, a subscription-free way to access 125+ broadcast and streaming channels.

Content and channels are subject to availability in your area.

Nuvyyo USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of The E.W. Scripps Company, is a successful technology company re-inventing the over-the-air television experience for the streaming age.

Tablo and Tablo TV are trademarks of Nuvyyo USA, LLC. All third-party trademarks, including logos, are the property of their respective owners.

For more information, visit TabloTV.com.

● Ryan Ellis O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Las Vegas Motor Speedway Stats: Saturday’s first of two 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series trips to Sin City, will mark Ellis’s ninth career start at the 1.5-mile layout.

In his previous eight Las Vegas Motor Speedway starts, Ellis’s best result was delivered in his second trip in the 2022 edition of the Alsco Uniforms 300, where he earned a track-best 13th, driving for Alpha Prime Racing.

Overall, he holds an O’Reilly Auto Parts Series average finish of 26.0 at the famed intermediate track in the heart of Nevada.

The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series returns to action Saturday, March 14, for the fifth race of the 2026 season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Serving as the opening act for the NASCAR Cup Series Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube on Sunday, March 15, the weekend marks the first trip of the season to the Nevada desert.

The 1.5-mile tri-oval in Las Vegas presents a unique challenge for teams as they navigate progressive banking, multiple racing grooves and the importance of tire management and track position on one of the fastest intermediate tracks on the schedule.

The weekend features a doubleheader of NASCAR action at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competing Saturday afternoon before the NASCAR Cup Series headlines the weekend with the running of the Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube on Sunday afternoon.

Ryan Ellis and Young’s Motorsports look to regroup and rebound at Las Vegas Motor Speedway as the No. 02 team continues its push through the 33-race campaign.

With one of NASCAR’s premier intermediate tracks on deck, the weekend provides another opportunity for Ellis to strengthen his position in the championship standings and showcase the organization’s continued growth at the national level.

● Ryan Ellis NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Career Stats: Entering Las Vegas, Ellis has 168 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races to his credit, earning a career-best sixth-place finish after starting 32nd in the 2026 edition of the United Rentals 300 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway for Young’s Motorsports.

Since his 2012 debut, Ellis has averaged a 26.5 finish in series competition, including the past three seasons running full-time.

● Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway | GOVX 200 Race Recap: The 1.0-mile Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway opened NASCAR’s West Coast swing with Ryan Ellis and Young’s Motorsports looking to regain momentum in the fourth race of the season.

Unfortunately, the GOVX 200 race weekend brought more misfortune for the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet team. The team struggled with the balance throughout practice and qualifying before suspension issues early in the race ended any hopes of a rebound.

Instead, the team settled for a 38th-place finish.

While the result wasn’t what the team had hoped for, Young’s Motorsports heads to Las Vegas Motor Speedway determined to reset its early-season momentum and build toward a strong spring stretch in NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition.

● Calling the Shots: Guiding Ellis as crew chief of the No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro is longtime crew chief, engineer and industry veteran Eddie Troconis.

On Saturday afternoon, he will be the crew chief in his 26th NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race. In his previous 25 races, he has two top-10 finishes, most recently in the 2026 season-opener at Daytona International Speedway.

The season’s fifth race will serve as his third event atop the pit box at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and his first appearance there since 2021.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Overview at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ fifth start in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway.

In the organization’s four previous races, the team has earned a track-best 18th-place finish twice, most recently during the 2025 edition of the LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race, with series veteran Anthony Alfredo behind the wheel.

In Las Vegas, the organization’s four previous starts in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series have produced an average starting position of 22.8 and an average finish of 24.3.

Beyond its O’Reilly Auto Parts Series efforts, the team has also made 32 starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series since 2014, producing a 21.4 average finish.

That stretch is highlighted by the organization’s Las Vegas-best finish of 10th, earned by Austin Hill in the series’ third race of the 2018 Truck Series season.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series History: Since entering the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2024, the family-owned organization has logged 73 starts and earned one top-five and four top-10 finishes while maintaining an average starting position of 26.4 and an average finish of 23.9.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Ryan Ellis, please visit ryanellisracing.com, like him on Facebook (Ryan Ellis), and follow him on Instagram (@ryanellisracing), TikTok (@ryanellisracing), and X | Twitter (@ryanellisracing).

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

Ryan Ellis Pre-Race Quotes:

On Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “Las Vegas is a track I’ve always enjoyed because it offers a lot of different grooves and the racing can get really competitive.

“I was able to finish 13th there a couple of years ago, so I know it’s a place where you can make things happen if you have a good balance and stay patient throughout the race.

“Hopefully we can unload with some speed this weekend, execute throughout the day and give our Young’s Motorsports team a solid finish.”

On Keys to Las Vegas Motor Speedway Success: “Las Vegas is a track where you really have to manage your tires and keep your car balanced over a long run.

“The surface allows for multiple grooves, so being able to move around and find clean air is really important. If you can keep the car balanced and take care of your tires, it usually pays off later in the run.

“Hopefully, we can do that and put our No. 02 Tablo TV — Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet in a good position when it matters.”

On Tablo TV Partnership: “I’m really excited to have Tablo TV back with us this weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

“They’ve been an awesome partner and we’re proud to represent them on our Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet. Hopefully, we can put together a solid run and give the Tablo TV team something to celebrate on race day.”

On Phoenix Raceway Finish: “Phoenix was definitely a frustrating weekend for our team. We had some issues early in the race that were unfortunately out of our control, and it put us behind the rest of the field.

“The guys at Young’s Motorsports kept working all day to try and make the car better, but sometimes those weekends just happen in racing. I’m proud of the effort from everyone and we’ll take what we learned and move forward.”

On 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Goals: “Our goal for 2026 and beyond is simple — keep improving every weekend and build something sustainable together.

“Young’s Motorsports has been putting in the work to establish itself in this series, and I want to help take that next step. If we can stay consistent, run competitively every week, and continue to close the gap to the front, the results will follow. It’s about progress, chemistry, and execution. I’m ready to get started!”

No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Team:

Driver: Nathan Byrd

Primary Partner(s): Young’s Building Systems | Randco Industries Inc.

Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro

Crew Chief: Andrew Abbott

2026 Driver Points Position: N/A

2026 Owner Points Position: 28th

Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing

Notes of Interest:

● Year Three, Driven Forward: Young’s Motorsports continues its campaign in the newly rebranded NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, aiming to make an immediate impact with its second full-time entry, continuing this weekend at Phoenix Raceway.

Fan-favorite Nathan Byrd returns to the organization for the second consecutive race and will pilot the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro in the fifth of 33 races on the 2026 schedule.

● About Nathan: Byrd, 26, began racing go-karts in 2018, just after graduating High School, and he entered his first car race in February 2020.

Since then, the Goodyear, Ariz. native has raced over 30 types of cars in 348 total races at 67 different race tracks, effectively becoming one of the most diverse and interesting race car drivers in the world.

Completing more than 300 races in the first four years of his career, Byrd is no stranger to piloting race cars.

In 2024, the Indianapolis, Ind. resident turned his attention to NASCAR. He successfully made his NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut at Portland International Raceway and delivered a respectable 21st-place finish for DGM Racing.

In September 2024, Byrd made his NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series debut at Kansas Speedway, earning a respectable 19th-place finish after starting 32nd.

Last year, Byrd continued his foray into the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, making 15 starts for Young’s Motorsports. His campaign was highlighted by three top-15 finishes, including a career-best 14th-place result in back-to-back races at Rockingham Speedway and Texas Motor Speedway, respectively.

Byrd’s most recent NASCAR national series start came under the lights at Phoenix Raceway on October 31, 2025 — a Halloween night showdown in the desert.

● All-Aboard!: For the fifth of 33 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races this season, Young’s Motorsports welcomes back Texas-based Young’s Building Systems and Randco, who partner with the Mooresville, N.C.-based team as the primary partners on the No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro for the 200-lap race on Saturday night.

Since 1981, Young’s Building Systems has been providing West Texas with all their metal building needs. This family-owned and operated business has become an industry favorite due to the experience gained and the professional results completed.

Young’s Building System is a division of Randco Industries, Inc. We have expanded into a company that has the ability to erect any type of building, from a small single-story to a city high-rise.

Our customers have multiple uses for our buildings, including commercial, residential, agricultural, industrial, skid-mounted buildings and compressor station buildings.

We also have a team that specializes in stairs and railings of all shapes and sizes. Young’s Building Systems is fully insured for your peace of mind, so we carry workmen’s compensation and general liability coverage that goes above and beyond State requirements.

Our company is fully equipped with moving and lifting equipment along with compressors, generators and welding equipment. We have the tools and equipment needed to support large, demanding projects. Our work ethic is based on the principles of quality, promptness, and customer experience.

Young’s Building Systems continuously raises our standard of excellence and works hard to make sure that each and every one of your needs are met.

● Nathan Byrd O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Las Vegas Motor Speedway Stats: Saturday’s first of two 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series trips to Sin City, will mark Byrd’s inaugural career start at the 1.5-mile layout.

However, Byrd did make his Las Vegas Motor Speedway debut last March, in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, qualifying his No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST on speed and using the season finale to methodically work his way through the field to earn a hard-fought 29th-place finish in the 134-lap contest.

The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series returns to action Saturday, March 14, for the fifth race of the 2026 season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Serving as the opening act for the NASCAR Cup Series Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube on Sunday, March 15, the weekend marks the first trip of the season to the Nevada desert.

The 1.5-mile tri-oval in Las Vegas presents a unique challenge for teams as they navigate progressive banking, multiple racing grooves and the importance of tire management and track position on one of the fastest intermediate tracks on the schedule.

The weekend features a doubleheader of NASCAR action at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competing Saturday afternoon before the NASCAR Cup Series headlines the weekend with the running of the Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube on Sunday afternoon.

Nathan Byrd will pilot the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet in his second NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start of the 2026 season this weekend, aiming to capitalize on prior experience at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and deliver a competitive performance for the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization.

With one of NASCAR’s premier intermediate venues on deck, Saturday’s race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway presents Byrd with another opportunity to continue building his national series résumé while contributing to Young’s Motorsports’ continued presence on the national stage.

● Nathan Byrd NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Career Stats: Entering Las Vegas, Byrd has four NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts to his credit, highlighted by a career-best 21st-place finish in his series debut after starting 35th in the 2024 Pacific Office Automation 147 at Portland International Raceway for DGM Racing.

Since his 2024 debut, Byrd has recorded an average finish of 28.3 in series competition, adding starts at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course and Phoenix Raceway for DGM Racing, SS-GreenLight Racing and Young’s Motorsports, respectively.

Further bolstering his NASCAR résumé, Byrd has made 18 starts in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series since 2024.

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

On Saturday, he will be the crew chief in his 167th NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race. In his previous 166 races, he has four top-five and 14 top-10 finishes.

The season’s fifth race will be his 10th tango at Las Vegas Motor Speedway as crew chief in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

In his nine previous leadership efforts at Las Vegas, Abbott has earned a track-best 13th-place finish twice, most recently with driver Santino Ferrucci in the 2021 spring edition of the Alsco Uniforms 300.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Overview at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ fifth start in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway.

In the organization’s four previous races, the team has earned a track-best 18th-place finish twice, most recently during the 2025 edition of the LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race, with series veteran Anthony Alfredo behind the wheel.

In Las Vegas, the organization’s four previous starts in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series have produced an average starting position of 22.8 and an average finish of 24.3.

Beyond its O’Reilly Auto Parts Series efforts, the team has also made 32 starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series since 2014, producing a 21.4 average finish.

That stretch is highlighted by the organization’s Las Vegas-best finish of 10th, earned by Austin Hill in the series’ third race of the 2018 Truck Series season.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series History: Since entering the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2024, the family-owned organization has logged 73 starts and earned one top-five and four top-10 finishes while maintaining an average starting position of 26.4 and an average finish of 23.9.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Nathan Byrd, please visit byrdracing.com, like him on Facebook (Nathan Byrd), and follow him on Instagram (@nathanjbyrd) and X |Twitter (@nathanjbyrd).

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

Nathan Byrd Pre-Race Quote:

On Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a track I’ve been looking forward to racing at. It’ll be my first start there in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, so I’m excited for the opportunity.

“It’s a fast intermediate track where you can move around and search for grip, so hopefully we can get comfortable early, keep improving throughout the race and put together a strong run for Young’s Motorsports.”

On Las Vegas Motor Speedway Goals: “The goal for Las Vegas is to keep building momentum and put together a solid, clean race.

“It’s a fast intermediate track and one where you really have to stay disciplined over the course of a long run. If we can stay out of trouble, keep learning, and keep improving the car throughout the race, I think we can put ourselves in a good position by the end.”

On Phoenix Raceway Performance: “Phoenix was a good step forward for me. As the race went on, I felt more comfortable being back in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series car and we were able to show some speed toward the end of the race.

“That gave me a lot of confidence heading into this weekend because it showed we’re moving in the right direction.”

On Returning to NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Competition: “I’m really excited to get back into NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition. The level of competition is high, and every opportunity at this stage is valuable.

“I feel like I’m a more complete driver than I was in my previous starts, especially after gaining experience in the Truck Series over the past year.

“The focus for me is on executing, staying disciplined and putting together a strong performance for Young’s Motorsports this weekend.”

Race Information:

The LiUNA! NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race (200 laps | 300 miles) is the fifth of thirty-three (33) NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races on the 2026 schedule. Practice will occur on Sat., March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. Qualifying will immediately follow, beginning at 10:05 a.m. The field will take the green flag later in the day, shortly after 2:30 p.m. (5:30 p.m. ET), with live coverage on The CW Network, the Performance Racing Network (Radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (PT).

SpeedwayMedia.comOnline Resource for Motorsports Information

SpeedwayMedia.comOnline Resource for Motorsports Information

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