Home Blog Page 484

Kaulig Racing Weekly Preview | Charlotte Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
-

600 Miles of Remembrance

Sgt. Nicole Gee:

Sgt. Nicole Gee
Sgt. Nicole Gee

Kaulig Racing and the No. 16 team will honor Sgt. Nicole Gee and her legacy during the Coca-Cola 600 weekend. Sgt. Gee will ride along with AJ Allmendinger for 600 miles, with her name featured on the windshield and over the right-side door.

Sgt. Gee exemplified what it meant to be a United States Marine with her determination to learn, lead and inspire. On August 26, 2021, Sgt. Gee lost her life as part of a Female Engagement Team to facilitate evacuation support for Afghan women and children. Gee held a vital role in America’s largest airlift operation.

As a 23-year-old Marine, Sgt. Gee was proud. Proud to be a United States Marine, proud of who she was, and proud of the work she was doing in Afghanistan.

Specialist Eric M. Finniginam:

Specialist Eric M. Finniginam
Specialist Eric M. Finniginam

Kaulig Racing and the No. 16 team will honor Sgt. Nicole Gee and her legacy during the Coca-Cola 600 weekend. Sgt. Gee will ride along with AJ Allmendinger for 600 miles, with her name featured on the windshield and over the right-side door.

Spc. Finniginam was a dedicated soldier, a loyal friend, and a loving father. He exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, perseverance, and camaraderie. His strong work ethic, unwavering positivity, and unmatched sense of humor made him an invaluable presence among his peers and leaders alike.

Spc. Finniginam served as a rifleman and 240 gunner, demonstrating exceptional dedication and selflessness. His contributions to his unit and his unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers will never be forgotten.

His legacy of service and sacrifice inspired the creation of The Fallen Outdoors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing outdoor adventures for veterans and service members. Through this initiative, Finn’s passion for the outdoors and the deep bonds he shared with his brothers-in-arms continue to impact the veteran community, offering healing and connection beyond military service.

This weekend, the No. 10 Grizzly Nicotine Pouches Chevy honors Spc. Finniginam and the 7,064 men and women who gave their lives in Afghanistan and Iraq. Every name is inscribed on the car in tribute to their courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.

Ty Dillon Plays Ball!

  • Ty Dillon will throw out the first pitch at the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers game on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. ET. Fans can meet Dillon at the main gate starting at 5:30 p.m. ET.
  • Dillon will continue his baseball themed month on Tuesday, May 27, when he makes his way to Cleveland, Ohio, to throw out the first pitch for the Cleveland Guardians game against the LA Dodgers. The first pitch will take place at 6:00 p.m. ET.

At Charlotte Motor Speedway:

  • Kaulig Racing has made six starts at the Charlotte Motor Speedway oval in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Kaulig Racing has made 21 starts, earning five top five and seven top-10 finishes at Charlotte.

10 Team Info
Crew Chief: Andrew Dickeson
Partner: Grizzly Nicotine Pouches

Ty Dillon, No. 10 Grizzly Nicotine Pouches Camaro ZL1
Grizzly Nicotine Pouches: Grizzly Nicotine Pouches returns to Dillon’s No. 10 Chevrolet this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway for the Coca-Cola 600. Grizzly Nicotine Pouches, a tobacco leaf-free product available nationwide (where permitted), will also have a major associate position on Dillon’s entry all season.

Meet Ty Dillon:

Sunday, May 25

Ty Dillon will be at the NASCAR Classics Merchandise trailer in the Fan Zone on Sunday, May 25, from 2:30 – 3:00 p.m. ET to meet fans and sign autographs.
Dillon will then make his way to the Carolina Cowboys display in the Fan Zone from 3:05 – 3:20 p.m. ET to meet and interact with fans at the display.

At Charlotte:

Ty Dillon will make his 10th Cup Series start at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Sunday, May 25, for the Coca-Cola 600. In his previous 9 Cup Series starts at the track, Dillon has a best finish of 13th in 2022.
In the Xfinity Series, Dillon has 10 starts with a career best finish of fourth in 2018. In the Craftsman Truck Series, Dillon has three starts with one pole starting position and a best finish of fifth in 2013. Dillon has led laps in both series.
 
“This is an exciting weekend with friends and family coming out and it’s such an amazing race with the 600 Miles of Remembrance as we honor our military, and the ones that have given the ultimate sacrifice. We have some good momentum going into the weekend after last weekend at North Wilkesboro and even from Kansas where we had the speed, just not the result. It should be a good weekend for Memorial Day weekend and hopefully we can capitalize and get a good finish for our No. 10 Grizzly Nicotine Chevy team.” – Ty Dillon on Charlotte Motor Speedway  

16 Team Info

Crew Chief: Trent Owens
Partner: LeafFilter Gutter Protection

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 LeafFilter Gutter Protection Camaro ZL1
LeafFilter Gutter Protection: LeafHome, a company offering a variety of home improvement solutions, including LeafFilter Gutter Protection, is committed to actively supporting veterans and their families with the transition from the military. Using their comprehensive Veterans Program, LeafHome offers recruitment, hiring and career nurturing opportunities to those who have served.

The program, that began in 2020, currently has 176 current military employees actively employed at Leaf Home. In addition, 29 transitioning military interns participating in their VetConnect Military Talent Program.

Meet AJ Allmendinger:

Sunday, May 25

AJ Allmendinger will be at the NASCAR Classics Merch hauler on Sunday, May 25, at 3:30 p.m. meeting fans and signing autographs.

At Charlotte:

AJ Allmendinger has made 22 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Charlotte Motor Speedway. In his lone Cup Series start at the track with Kaulig Racing, Allmendinger earned a 14th place finishing, Kaulig Racing’s best finish on the oval.
Earlier this week, Kaulig Racing unveiled a patrioic LeafFilter Gutter Protection scheme for the Coca-Cola 600 weekend. On board the No. 16, Allmendinger and the team will honor Sgt. Nicole Gee with her name on the windshield banner and over the right side door. Sgt. Gee lost her life on August 26, 2021 as part of a Female Engagement Team to facilitate evacuation support for Afghan women and children. Gee held a vital role in America’s largest airlift operation.
 
“Charlotte is one of the staples that we have in NASCAR, one of the crown jewels, and it’s fun to be a part of it. This weekend is a long, grueling race, but our mile and a half program has been really solid this year. We have the opportunity to have speed and be competitive. Charlotte’s always been one of my favorite mile-and-a-half racetracks; it’s definitely very heat sensitive, technical, and rough in three and four.

We’re looking forward to going there after the All-Star race where we had a break from points racing. We were able to reset knowing that this can be a really good stretch of races for us ahead. We’re looking to kick it off right with a good 600-mile run.” – AJ Allmendinger on Charlotte Motor Speedway  

10 Team Info
Crew Chief: Kevin Walter
Partner: Race to Stop Suicide

Daniel Dye, No. 10 Race to Stop Suicide Chevrolet
Race to Stop Suicide: Daniel Dye will pilot the No. 10 Race to Stop Suicide Chevrolet at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Race to Stop Suicide leverages the passion and community of motorsports to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide critical support for suicide prevention and mental health. Through events and initiatives, the organization drives important conversations, inspires hope, and races toward saving lives. The No. 10 Chevy will also feature the Race to Stop Suicide in-car camera in the BetMGM 300.

At Charlotte:

Daniel Dye will make his first start at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) this weekend in the BetMGM 300.
Dye currently leads all rookies in top-10 finishes so far in the 2025 NXS season. He also leads the series in top-20 finishes throughout the first 12 races.
 
“I really enjoy racing at Charlotte and had a really fast truck there last year. This No. 10 team has been on a roll lately and started to put together solid finishes and build some momentum before the two week break. I’m also really excited to have Race to Stop Suicide back on the car, a cause that’s really special to me, as part of Mental Health Awareness month.” – Daniel Dye on Charlotte Motor Speedway  

11 Team Info

Crew Chief: Eddie Pardue
Partner: Alloy Employer Services

Josh Williams, No. 11 Alloy Employer Services Chevrolet
Alloy Employer Services: Based in Columbus, Ohio, Alloy Employer Services helps a range of clients, from small businesses to large employers. Industries served include healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, maintenance, hospitality, and construction. Alloy’s Midwest roots have led to national reach, serving clients with workers nationwide because of a love to design, build and innovate in our industry. Alloy Employer Services is a Fortune-HR, LLC company.

At Charlotte:

Josh Williams has started seven races at Charlotte Motor Speedway on the oval, with his best finish being eighth place.
Williams’ first top-10 result on a 1.5-mile track with Kaulig Racing came at the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ lone trip to the Charlotte oval in May 2024.
 
“Charlotte is always one of those places that you want to run good at. We’ve got a lot of partners, friends, and family who come every year, so it was pretty exciting with how we finished last year. It’s been a nice two-week break, but I’m ready for this weekend.” – Josh Williams on Charlotte Motor Speedway  

16 Team Info
Crew Chief: Alex Yontz
Partner: Campers Inn RV

Christian Eckes, No. 16 Campers Inn RV Chevrolet
Campers Inn RV: Campers Inn RV is a family-operated RV dealership with a mission: As the Trusted Resource of the Recreation Industry, we enrich the lives of our customers by specializing in products and services that help them find their “AWAY.”

In observance of Memorial Day weekend, the No. 16 Campers Inn RV Chevy will feature a patriotic scheme memorializing family members and fallen shipmates of Campers Inn RV employees that were on the USS Stark, a U.S. frigate struck by two Iraqi jet aircraft missiles in the Persian Gulf on May 17, 1987.

Meet Christian Eckes:

Saturday, May 24

Christian Eckes will be at the Carolina Cowboys merchandise trailer signing autographs in the Fan Zone on Saturday, May 24, at 2 p.m. ET.

At Charlotte:

Christian Eckes will make his first start at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Eckes has made five starts at Charlotte in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, earning one top five and two top-10 finishes.
 
“Racing in front of family and friends during Memorial Day weekend is always special. It’s an honor to be able to pay tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us to be able to do what we love, and I’m thankful to Campers Inn RV for the opportunity to recognize many of those brave men and women. We’ve had a good two-week break to get focused and work on a few things, so we’re excited to get back to it at Charlotte.” – Christian Eckes on Charlotte Motor Speedway  

Meet the Kaulig Racing Drivers

Saturday, May 24

Christian Eckes will be at the Carolina Cowboys merchandise trailer in the Fan Zone on Saturday, May 24 at 2 p.m. ET.

Sunday, May 25

  • AJ Allmendinger will be at the NASCAR Classics Merch hauler on Sunday, May 25, at 3:30 p.m. meeting fans and signing autographs.
  • Ty Dillon will be at the NASCAR Classics Merchandise trailer in the Fan Zone on Sunday, May 25, from 2:30 – 3:00 p.m. ET to meet fans and sign autographs.
  • Dillon will then make his way to the Carolina Cowboys display in the Fan Zone from 3:05 – 3:20 p.m. ET to meet and interact with fans at the display.

About Kaulig Racing

Kaulig Racing™ is a full-time, multi-car NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) team, owned by award winning entrepreneur, Matt Kaulig. Established in 2016, Kaulig Racing™ has earned 27 NXS wins, made the NXS Playoffs consecutively each season since the playoff system started, and won two regular-season championships. In 2021, the team competed in select NCS events, before expanding to a two-car, full-time NCS team in 2022 and adding a third, part-time entry during the 2023 season. Since its first NCS start in 2021, the team has earned two wins. Kaulig Racing is currently fielding two full-time entries in the NCS and continues to field three full-time NXS entries. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

Front Row Motorsports: Charlotte Motor Speedway NCTS Race Advance- Layne Riggs / Chandler Smith

By
Official Release
-

Layne Riggs | Chandler Smith
Charlotte Motor Speedway NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race Advance
North Carolina Education Lottery 200

Date: Friday May 23, 2025
Event: Race 11 of 25
Series: NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series
Location: Charlotte Motor Speedway (1.5-miles)
#of Laps: 134
Time/TV/Radio: 8:30 PM ET on FS1/SiriusXM channel 90

Layne Riggs Notes

NASCAR’s home track, the Charlotte Motor Speedway, is up next on the schedule for Layne Riggs and the No. 34 Ford team. Finishing second at the North Wilkesboro Speedway last week, Riggs is now eighth in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Driver Championship points standings.

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte will return with Riggs this weekend for the 134-lap event. “It’s cool to represent my Alma-Mater in back-to-back races,” said Riggs. “I gave them a good showing last week, but I want to get them in Victory Lane, especially at Charlotte with their campus just down the road from the track.”

“I’m looking forward to Charlotte,” said Riggs. “It’s great to have another local race, a lot of my family will be attending so hopefully I can make them proud. The team and I are confident heading into this weekend. We have the speed to compete up front; we showed that in Wilkesboro, so I know our time is coming.”
Road Crew

Driver: Layne Riggs

Crew Chief: Dylan Cappello

Truck Chief: Alex Lacognata

Engineer: Jonathan Coates

Mechanic: Clark Houston

Mechanic: Brandon Selph

Tire / Interior Specialist: Robert Benzenhafer

Spotter: Josh Williams

Transporter Driver: Joe Haresky

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Blake Hickman

Rear Tire Changer: Steven Chereek

Tire Carrier: Alvin Wilson

Jackman: Landon Honeycutt

Fueler: Patrick Gaddy

Chandler Smith Notes

Securing his second win of the 2025 season last week at the North Wilkesboro Speedway, Chandler Smith shifts his focus to the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The 1.5-mile Concord, North Carolina track is a favorite for the 22-year-old driver, securing two top-10 finishes in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2021 and 2022.

Through the first 10 races of the season, Smith has two wins, four top-five, and seven top-10 finishes. Smith has led 188 laps this season and has consistently held second place in the Truck Series’ Driver Championship points standings.

“We left North Wilkesboro with a win, but we want to go back-to-back,” said Smith. “My No. 38 team has been working around the clock to continue to bring speed to the track, and it would be awesome to pay them back for all their hard work with another win.”

Road Crew

Driver: Chandler Smith

Crew Chief: Jon Leonard

Truck Chief: Ron Schutte

Engineer: Caleb Williams

Mechanic: Levy Bixler

Mechanic: Alex Campbell

Tire / Interior Specialist: Kyle Clark

Spotter: Ryan Blanchard

Transport Driver: Mark Hadley

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Garrett Wager

Rear Tire Changer: Jacob Ray

Tire Carrier: Paul Steele

Jackman: Ryan Selig

Fueler: Chris Webb

ABOUT UNC CHARLOTTE

More than 31,000 students choose to call North Carolina’s urban research university home. As Charlotte’s only R1 institution, UNC Charlotte drives innovation and discovery in one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States. The University has an award-winning focus on student success, internationally recognized research and creative activity, and a deep commitment to community engagement and cultural vibrancy that makes it one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 100 Public Universities. Learn more about what’s great—only at Charlotte.

ABOUT QUICKTIE

Quick Tie Products, Inc., (“QuickTie”) manufactures and distributes the QuickTie™ System (a proprietary, patented hold-down system for high wind and seismic construction) and a full line of framing hardware including u-hangers, hurricane clips, straps, structural wood screws, truss connectors and foundation connectors.

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.

Grandstand Sellout Crowd for Indy 500 Encouraged To Arrive Early, ‘Plan Ahead’ with IMS.com

By
Official Release
-

Public Gates Open at 6 a.m. ET on Race Day, Sunday, May 25

INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, May 21, 2025) – With the massive grandstand sellout crowd announced for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, fans should plan ahead and arrive early.

To ensure a smooth entry into the facility, fans are encouraged to arrive earlier than usual, even as early as 6 a.m. ET when gates open. This is the best way to ensure a smooth and quicker entry into the facility with time to visit activations and be in seats for the green flag.

Race fans are encouraged to “Plan Ahead” through IMS.com/PlanAhead, an interactive web page that serves as a home base for fans headed to the track this weekend.

The “Plan Ahead” page features detailed information about the entire fan experience at IMS, including directions, parking, schedule, gate regulations, digital ticket guide, ADA accessibility and much more.

Race fans are encouraged to download the IMS App and use technology from NTT INDYCAR SERIES title sponsor NTT and its Smart Solutions platform, which will update the IMS App every 30 seconds with wait time information at each gate to allow race fans smoother entry into the facility.

IMS is offering a whole morning of thrills and entertainment for ticketholders looking to beat traffic and avoid longer lines by coming to the track early. Gates open at 6 a.m. following the traditional infield blast.

Many enjoyable opportunities are available to fans right as the gates open or shortly after, including:

Fan Midway Experience Open at 6 a.m.

This year’s Fan Midway features several exciting, fan-friendly activities. The Midway will open at 6 a.m. and be available for enjoyment until the green flag flies to start “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”

Shopping and Food

Exclusive and commemorative 109th Running attire will go fast, so don’t miss out! Grab breakfast at one of the many concession stands open throughout the facility, and then shop for family and friends while supplies last. Retail and food options are available at 6 a.m.

Epic Pre-Race, Be in Your Seat for It!

This year’s pre-race festivities for the Indianapolis 500 are a carefully organized and choreographed show that will entertain race fans at any moment they are in their seats. It will feature moving military tributes, former Indy 500 winner and historic race car laps around the famed 2.5-mile oval, the heartfelt singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana” by Jim Cornelison, the “G.O.A.T.” drive of Tom Brady and Jimmie Johnson in the Fastest Seat in Sports, “God Bless America” performed by acclaimed opera singer Arturo Chacón-Cruz and so much more.

Additionally, all Speedway patrons should be aware of the following facility information and regulations to ensure a successful day at the track:

Cashless Operations

IMS is a cashless facility. Please be prepared to complete ticket, credential, parking, concession and merchandise purchases with ease via debit or credit card.

Tap-to-pay phone payments will be accepted, as will credit and debit transactions. Cash-to-Card machines, which convert paper money onto a temporary debit card, will be located in Pagoda Plaza and outside Turn 1 by concessions stand 7. These funds can be spent inside the venue, outside the venue, online or anywhere in the world where Mastercard/Visa debit cards are accepted.

Cooling/Water Stations

IMS will have cooling buses located in the infield on the corner of Fifth Street and Hulman Boulevard, Seventh Street and Hulman Boulevard, B Stand near Gate 1 and Northwest Vista in Turn 4. Misting stations will be located in the Midway, Pagoda Plaza, concert area inside Turn 3, west of the IU Emergency Medical Center in the infield, outside Turn 1 and outside Turn 4 between the Northwest Vista and J Stand. There will also be six water bottle filling stations located throughout the facility on Race Day in each of the four turns, as well as behind Tower Terrace and in the Garage Area.

Public Parking

Parking for the Indianapolis 500 is sold out, including ADA and motorcycle parking. All IMS exterior parking lots open at 5 a.m. on Race Morning, while interior lots open at 6 a.m.

Bike to the 500 and Bike Parking

IMS and Bike Indianapolis have collaborated to offer race fans a safe and healthy way to commute to the track on Race Day. The commute starts at the AMP at 16 Tech and follows a police escort to the racetrack, where cyclists will then park outside the famed Gate 1. Race fans can register for Bike to the 500 here.

Bike parking is available for all cyclists at Gates 1, 6 and 9.

Rideshare Location

Race fans who are not planning to park at the racetrack should consider using a rideshare program, such as Uber or Lyft, when traveling to or from the facility on Indianapolis 500 Race Day. Guests using rideshare services like Uber, Lyft or taxis will be dropped off at the corner of 10th and Polco streets. Guests also will be picked up at this location after the race.

The Race Day IMS shuttle program is sold out. Shuttle services pick up and drop off from Indianapolis International Airport or at Gate Ten Events and Parking, located across the street from Lucas Oil Stadium. Guests who already purchased shuttle passes will be dropped off and picked up from the Main Gate parking lot on Race Day.

Pedestrian Gate Entry

Public pedestrian gates open are: Gate 1, Gate 1B.1, Gate 1C, Gate 2, Gate 3, Gate 4, Gate 5N, Gate 5B, Gate 6N, Gate 6S, Gate 6B, Gate 7S, Gate 7 Vehicle, Gate 7N Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 10A, Gate 11A, Gate 11B, Gate 11C, Gate 12.

Security screening detection devices are installed at all pedestrian gates.

As fans pass through one of the pedestrian entrances, they will walk through a CEIA OPENGATE® security device. Fans won’t need to empty their pockets or remove items of clothing, simply walk through the gate and enter the facility.

Digital Tickets

Race fans who order tickets in advance may select their delivery method at checkout. Digital tickets can be accessed on their smartphone’s web browser or by saving the digital ticket to their mobile device’s wallet. Fans are encouraged to ensure the brightness on their smart phone is turned up before approaching the gate for a seamless scanning of their digital ticket. Race fans are also encouraged to visit the IMS Digital Ticket guide to manage their digital tickets and enhance their at-track experience.

Weekend Street Parking

Race Weekend event parking restrictions in the Town of Speedway will be enforced during the Indianapolis 500. No parking will be allowed on the south and east sides of any street bound by 25th Street on the north, Georgetown Road on the east, Lynhurst Drive on the west and Crawfordsville Road on the south from 6 p.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Sunday. Additionally, race fans will not be able to park on Main Street in Speedway between 10th Street and 16th Street on Race Day starting at midnight.

Parking will also be restricted in other areas of the Town of Speedway on Indianapolis 500 Race Weekend from 6 p.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Sunday along several neighborhood streets. Local streets impacted by street parking can be found here.

Road Closures

Race fans should be aware of multiple road closures before making their way to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Race Day. Those include:

  • Speedway Police Department will close Georgetown Road south of 25th Street at 5 a.m. on Race Day to all vehicular traffic. Guests accustomed to driving a vehicle through Gate 7 should enter through Gate 2 or Gate 10. Local residents are encouraged to make provisions for the temporary traffic restriction. Georgetown Road will remain closed until approximately one hour after conclusion of the race.
  • Speedway Police Department will also close 16th Street between Olin Avenue and the roundabout from approximately noon until the end of the race. Additionally, 16th Street will not be accessible from Polco Street, as it will be blocked at 10th Street.
  • Traffic traveling east on Crawfordsville Road from the west will be turned around at the 16th Street roundabout. Traffic traveling west on 16th Street from downtown will be diverted south on Olin Avenue.

Post Race

Fans should continue to plan ahead as they prepare to leave IMS after the Indy 500.

  • To keep everyone safe, vehicles will not be released from IMS parking lots until pedestrian traffic allows for clear roadways. This can take up to an hour following the end of the Race.
  • The Speedway and surrounding area is divided into four quadrants. As fans leave the Speedway, they will be directed to the nearest interstate access based on the quadrant in which they are parked – not their intended destination.

Additional Resources and Information

Drivers can learn the locations of work zones and highway restrictions by calling INDOT’s TrafficWise at 1-800-261-ROAD (7623) or viewing an online map here or visiting @TrafficWise on X.

No coolers larger than 18 inches by 15 inches by 15 inches can be brought into the facility, which will be strictly enforced. Fans will be allowed to bring one cooler and one standard backpack or book bag per person. Coolers are allowed inside the Snake Pit gates.

For more information regarding access to IMS, visit IMS.com. For additional information, follow on Twitter the Indiana State Police @IndStatePolice, the Speedway Police Department @SpeedwayPD or listen to radio stations WFNI-FM 107.5/WFNI-AM 1070 or WIBC-FM 93.1.

The Speedway Police Department can be reached for non-emergency services by dialing 311 on a cell phone. The goal of 311 is to provide an easy-to-remember number for non-emergency services while freeing up 911 lines for timely emergency response.

Jimmie Johnson to make 700th Cup career start at Charlotte

By
Andrew Kim
-
Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

In his 23rd season with at least one start in the NASCAR Cup Series division and third as a part-time competitor of his own organization, Legacy Motor Club (LMC), Jimmie Johnson is scheduled to achieve a milestone start. By taking the green flag in this weekend’s Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the seven-time Cup champion and driver of the No. 84 LMC Toyota Camry XSE entry will reach 700 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

A native of El Cajon, California, Johnson made his inaugural presence in NASCAR’s premier series at Charlotte Motor Speedway in October 2001. By then, he had achieved his first Xfinity Series career victory while driving for Herzog Motorsports at Chicagoland Speedway in July and had caught the attention of four-time Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon, whom Johnson approached for advice and resulted with Gordon encouraging team owner Rick Hendrick of Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) to sign Johnson for a Cup Series ride. Driving the No. 48 Chevrolet for HMS, Johnson started 15th and ended up in 39th place in his Cup debut after he was involved in an incident with Ryan Newman towards the Lap 150 mark. He would then compete in two of the remaining three events on the schedule, where he finished a season-best 25th place at Homestead-Miami Speedway and 29th at Atlanta Motor Speedway, respectively.

The following season, Johnson campaigned in his first full-time Cup Series campaign in HMS’ No. 48 Chevrolet. He commenced the season by notching his first career pole position for the 44th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. In the process, he became the third rookie competitor to win the pole for the Great American Race. Then after finishing in the top-10 mark through the first nine-scheduled events, Johnson achieved his first Cup career victory at Auto Club Speedway. Johnson’s victory, which occurred in his 13th series start, occurred after he opted for a fuel-only stop during his final pit service to assume the lead during a 14-lap dash to the finish and fended off Kurt Busch for the remainder of the event.

Three races later, Johnson would score his second career victory at Dover Motor Speedway. For the remainder of his rookie season, the Californian would sweep both Dover events after winning the second Dover event of the year in September and he would become the first rookie competitor to assume the points lead during the following event at Kansas Speedway. Overall, Johnson would settle in fifth place in the final standings on the strengths of three victories, four poles, six top-five results, 21 top-10 results, 838 laps led and an average-finishing result of 13.5. He also ended up in the runner-up spot behind Newman for the Rookie-of-the-Year title.

Over the next three Cup Series seasons, Johnson would steer the No. 48 HMS Chevrolet entry to a total of 15 victories. Among his accomplishments included winning the Coca-Cola 600 three consecutive times, winning his first All-Star Race and sweeping both New Hampshire Motor Speedway events in 2003, a season-high eight victories while also sweeping both Pocono Raceway and Darlington Raceway events in 2004 and his first Clash at Daytona in 2005. He also won both Charlotte events during the 2004 and 2005 seasons and he racked up a career-high 20 top-five results during the 2004 season. Despite racking up a total of 47 top-five results, 65 top-10 results and average-finishing results within the top-12 mark throughout the three-year span, Johnson settled in second, second and fifth, respectively, in the final standings. By then, he also surpassed 100 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

The 2006 season was a breakthrough year for Johnson, who commenced his fifth full-time season by winning the 48th running of the Daytona 500. Two races later, he overtook Matt Kenseth on the final lap to win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway before he won at Talladega Superspeedway for the first time in his career another six races later. Johnson would proceed to win his second All-Star Race in Charlotte and the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the first time in the summer before the Playoffs commenced.

After spending the entire 2006 regular-season stretch mired towards the top of the standings, Johnson’s Playoff run commenced on a rough note after he finished no higher than 13th through the first four events. Then after rallying by finishing in the runner-up spot four times, winning at Martinsville Speedway in late October and finishing ninth during the finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Johnson leapt from eighth to first in the final standings and claimed his first championship by 56 points over Kenseth. As a result, he became the 28th competitor to win a Cup Series championship and he delivered the sixth title for HMS. Johnson’s first title season occurred in a year where he notched five victories, one pole, 13 top-five results, 24 top-10 results, 854 laps led and a career-best average-finishing result of 9.7.

The following four seasons were dynasty years for Johnson, who would an additional four championships to his resume and become the first to win five overall in consecutive seasons. Johnson’s dynasty streak commenced in 2007 when he won a career-high 10 victories and swept both seasonal events at Martinsville, Richmond Raceway and Atlanta Motor Speedway. After winning four consecutive events over the remaining five-scheduled events, he outdueled teammate Jeff Gordon by 77 points to win his second consecutive title. The following season, he claimed seven victories, including his second at Indianapolis while also sweeping both Phoenix Raceway events, and beat Carl Edwards by 69 points to join NASCAR Hall of Famer Cale Yarborough as the only competitors to win three consecutive Cup titles.

During the next season, Johnson won seven events for a second consecutive season, including his third at Indianapolis and sweeping both Dover events, and beat teammate Mark Martin by 141 points to become the first-ever competitor to win four consecutive Cup titles. Then in 2010, Johnson, who recorded six victories throughout the season, withstood late challenges from Denny Hamlin and Kevin Harvick to finish in the top 10 through the final nine of the 10-race Playoff stretch and overtake Hamlin during the finale at Homestead to beat him by 39 points and Harvick by 41 to stretch his historical championship-winning streak to five seasons. Throughout the 2007 to 2010 seasons, Johnson added 30 victories to his resume, which increased his Cup career wins total to 53, and he accumulated 16 poles, 68 top-five results, 93 top-10 results, 6,802 laps led and average-finishing results within the top-11 mark. In addition, he surpassed 300 Cup career starts.

Amid an unprecedented five-year championship-winning streak, the 2011 Cup season was a difficult year for Johnson, who only won twice (Talladega in April and at Kansas in September, the latter of which was during the Playoffs). Despite drawing himself to within four points of the points lead, he recorded an average-finishing result of 20.3 throughout the final six events on the schedule, which left him strapped in sixth place in the final standings as his championship-winning streak was snapped. He rebounded during the following season by winning five races, including his fourth overall at Indianapolis and recorded the 200th Cup victory for HMS during the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. He also won the All-Star Race for the third time in his career. Not long after assuming the points lead on the strength of back-to-back fall Playoff victories between Martinsville and Texas Motor Speedway, which also enabled him to reach 60 Cup career victories, Johnson then finished 32nd and 36th, respectively, during the final two-scheduled events, which plummeted him to third place in the final standings and shy of the title by 40 points to Brad Keselowski.

Johnson roared out of the gates in 2013 by winning the 55th running of the Daytona 500, which marked his second career victory in the Great American Race. The victory also occurred in Johnson’s 400th Cup career start, which made him the sixth competitor overall to achieve the feat. He would proceed by winning at Martinsville in April, his record fourth All-Star Race in May and Pocono in June. He would also win the summer Daytona event in July, where he became the first competitor to win both Daytona points-paying events on a schedule since NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison made the previous accomplishment in 1982, and lead the standings for the majority of the regular-season stretch before the Playoffs commenced. After claiming two Playoff victories (Dover in September and Texas in November) and finishing no worse than 13th throughout the Playoffs, he returned atop the championship podium by winning his sixth title after he beat Matt Kenseth by 19 points. Within his sixth championship season, the year 2013 also marked Johnson’s 12th consecutive time he concluded a Cup season with 20+ top-10 results and fifth time where he accumulated a career-high 24 top-10 results. The season also extended Johnson’s race-winning streak to 12 consecutive seasons.

Over the next two seasons, Johnson would add nine victories to his resume, which enabled him to reach 75 career wins in NASCAR’s premier series. Within his nine-race victories, he won the Coca-Cola 600 for a fourth time and claimed his first elusive victory at Michigan International Speedway, both of which occurred in 2014. He also racked up a combined two poles, 25 top-five results and 42 top-10 results. Amid the on-track success, he was not in contention to win a record-tying seventh title during both seasons after he was eliminated from the Playoffs following the second round in 2014 and the first round in 2015. Overall, he concluded the 2014 season in 11th place in the final standings and in 10th place in 2015. By then, Johnson surpassed 500 Cup career starts.

The 2016 Cup season was a roller-coaster year for Johnson, who commenced the season by finishing 16th during the 58th running of the Daytona 500 before he won the following weekend at Atlanta for the fifth time overall, which enabled him to tie seven-time champion Dale Earnhardt in the all-time wins list at 76 total and extend his race-winning streak to 15 consecutive seasons. Johnson would proceed to win at Auto Club Speedway for a sixth time three races later and notch a total of 10 top-10 results throughout the regular-season stretch before the Playoffs commenced. After utilizing consistency to advance past the Round of 16, he then won the opening events of both the Round of 12 and 8 at Charlotte and Martinsville, respectively, which enabled him to transfer to his first Championship 4 round appearance as a title contender. By then, Johnson had accumulated a total of eight Cup victories at Charlotte and nine at Martinsville.

Then during the 2016 finale at Homestead, he dodged a multi-car wreck amid contact between title rivals Carl Edwards and Joey Logano during a 10-lap shootout to muscle away from the field during an overtime shootout and win both at Homestead for the first time in his career and achieve his record-tying seventh Cup Series championship, which placed him in a tie with Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt for the most NASCAR titles overall. As an added bonus, Johnson’s Homestead victory marked his 80th career win.

Entering the 2017 season with an opportunity to claim a record eighth championship, Johnson finished no higher than ninth on the track through the first six-scheduled events before he rallied by notching back-to-back victories at Texas and Bristol. By then, Johnson notched his seventh career victory at Texas and second at Bristol as he also stretched his race-winning streak to 16 consecutive seasons. Five races later, he capitalized on an overtime shootout to muscle away from Kyle Larson and win at Dover for the 11th time in his career. Amid his Dover victory, he moved into a tie with Cale Yarborough for sixth place on the all-time wins list at 83. After notching only two top-10 results throughout the remaining 13 regular-season events and transferring from the Playoff’s Round of 16 to 8 with three top-10 results, Johnson’s eighth titles hopes came to a late end after he finished no higher than 12th throughout the Round of 8. Overall, he capped off his 16th consecutive full-time Cup season in 10th place in the final standings.

The 2018 and 2019 seasons were low years for Johnson and his No. 48 HMS Chevrolet team that started in the former season, where he went winless for the first time in his career despite making the Playoffs for a 17th consecutive time and finishing in 14th place in the final standings. During the season, he was eliminated from the Playoffs following the Round of 16 amid a three-way tie-breaker between himself, Aric Almirola and Kyle Larson, the latter two of whom transferred due to recording higher finishes than Johnson throughout the round. Amid the on-track struggles, Johnson surpassed 600 Cup career starts. Then despite winning the non-points Clash at Daytona for the second time to commence the 2019 season, he missed the Playoffs for the first time ever after he accumulated only eight top-10 results throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, but finished no higher than 15th during his final eight starts. Entering the Playoffs as a non-title contender for the first time, Johnson would rack up four results in the top 10 before ending up in 18th place in the final standings.

In mid-November 2019, Johnson announced that the 2020 season would be his last as a full-time Cup Series competitor. He commenced the year by finishing 35th during the 62nd running of the Daytona 500 after he was involved in a late-race multi-car wreck before he finished in the top seven during his next two starts. Then after accumulating four top-10 results over his next 12 starts, he was absent from competing at Indianapolis due to testing positive for COVID-19, which resulted with Xfinity Series veteran Justin Allgaier piloting Johnson’s No. 48 entry for the event. Despite finishing in the top 10 three times over his next 10 starts from his return to racing, Johnson missed the Playoffs for a second consecutive season. With his hopes of winning a title during his final season evaporated, he proceeded to finish fifth during the finale at Phoenix and settle in 18th place in the final standings. Overall, Johnson recorded five top-five results, a season-best third place at Bristol in June, 10 top-10 results, 107 laps led and an average-finishing result of 17.3 during his final full-time Cup campaign.

After departing from a full-time NASCAR campaign following the 2020 season, Johnson spent the next two seasons competing in the NTT IndyCar Series for Chip Ganassi Racing, where he made 12 starts in 2021 before he campaigned for the entire season in 2022. Despite recording average-finishing results within the top-20 mark, he managed to record two top-six results and a career-best fifth place at Iowa Speedway in July 2022.

In early November 2022, Johnson announced his purchase of an ownership stake of Petty GMS Motorsports and plans to return to the Cup Series on a part-time basis in 2023. A month prior to the 2023 season’s start, Petty GMS Motorsports rebranded to Legacy Motor Club as Johnson’s ride was revealed to be numbered 84. Johnson commenced his part-time Cup campaign on a high note by earning a starting spot for the 65th running of the Daytona 500 after being the fastest non-chartered competitors during the event’s single-car qualifying session. Despite racing towards the top-15 mark in the closing laps, Johnson would end up in 31st place after he was involved in a multi-car wreck during the event’s first of two overtime attempts. He would then end up in 38th place during his second start of the season at Circuit of the Americas in late March after being involved in a multi-car wreck on the opening lap before he finished 37th during his next scheduled start in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte due to being involved in an early single-car wreck. Johnson was initially set to compete in the series’ inaugural event at the Chicago Street Course in July, but withdrew following a personal family tragedy. Ultimately, he would not participate in any additional Cup events for the remainder of the 2023 season.

Johnson would return for an expanded, part-time campaign consisting of nine Cup events for the 2024 season while Legacy Motor Club switched manufacturers from Chevrolet to Toyota. Prior to the season’s start, Johnson was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. After edging J.J. Yeley to claim a starting spot for the 66th running of the Daytona 500 from the Daytona Duels, Johnson would finish 28th during the main event after he was involved in an early multi-car wreck. Overall, he recorded an average-finishing result of 30.6 throughout his nine-race campaign and finished a season-best 26th place during the finale at Phoenix.

This season, Johnson confirmed in January that he would return to compete in both the 67th running of the Daytona 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, both of which he would continue to pilot his No. 84 Toyota entry. After securing a starting spot for the former event based on his qualifying speed, he would dodge a final-lap accident to finish in third place. The finish marked his first top-three result as an owner/driver of Legacy Motor Club and his first time finishing in the top three since previously doing so at Dover in August 2020.

Through 699 previous Cup starts, Johnson has achieved a record-tying seven championships, 83 victories, 36 poles, 233 top-five results, 375 top-10 results, 18,941 laps led and an average-finishing result of 13.4.

For this upcoming weekend at Charlotte for the Coca-Cola 600, Johnson, who is a four-time winner of the prestigious event, is scheduled to become the 21st competitor overall to reach at least 700 starts in the Cup Series division. A victory this weekend would make the Californian the first competitor to win in career start No. 700 and it would tie him with NASCAR Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip for the most Coca-Cola 600 victories at five.

Jimmie Johnson is scheduled to make his 700th Cup Series career start at Charlotte Motor Speedway for the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 25, at 6 p.m. ET on Prime Video.

Daniel Suarez to make 300th Cup career start at Charlotte

By
Andrew Kim
-
Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Competing in his ninth consecutive full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series division, Daniel Suarez is scheduled to achieve a milestone start. By competing in this weekend’s Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the driver of the No. 99 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet entry will reach 300 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

A native of Monterrey, Mexico, Suarez made his inaugural presence in NASCAR’s premier series at the start of the 2017 season. By then, he was coming off an Xfinity Series championship with Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) and was promoted to a full-time Cup ride in JGR’s No. 19 Toyota Camry entry after veteran Carl Edwards retired from full-time NASCAR competition. Starting 19th, Suarez finished 29th in his Cup debut during the 59th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway after he was involved in a late multi-car wreck.

Throughout his rookie Cup Series campaign, Suarez notched a total of 12 top-10 results and a season-best third-place run at Watkins Glen International. He also recorded three sixth-place runs, six seventh-place finishes, a season-best starting spot of third place at Dover Motor Speedway and a non-points race victory in the All-Star Open at Charlotte Motor Speedway that enabled him to compete in his first All-Star Race, where he finished 15th. Amid the results, Suarez fell short of making the 2017 Cup Series Playoffs. The Mexico native would proceed to accumulate three top-10 results for the remaining 10 events on the schedule before he settled in 20th place in the final standings. In addition, he settled in the runner-up spot behind Erik Jones for the Rookie-of-the-Year battle and recorded a career-best average-finishing result of 16.2.

Like his rookie Cup season, Suarez commenced his sophomore Cup season with a wreck in the 60th running of the Daytona 500 that occurred on the final lap of the first stage period. He proceeded by finishing no higher than eighth during his next seven starts before notching three consecutive top-10 finishes between late April to early May, which included a third-place result at Dover. During the All-Star Race weekend at Charlotte, Suarez won the second segment of the Open that enabled him to transfer into the All-Star event for a second consecutive season. He would proceed to finish second behind Kevin Harvick amid a two-lap shootout.

At Pocono Raceway in early August 2018, Suarez was awarded his first Cup career pole position despite qualifying in third place, but was promoted to the top-starting spot after the qualifying times of Kevin Harvick and teammate Kyle Busch’s were disallowed due to their respective entries failing the post-qualifying inspection process. During the main event at Pocono, Suarez led 29 laps and settled in a career-best runner-up result behind Busch amid an overtime shootout. Despite backing up his Pocono result with a fourth-place finish the following weekend at Watkins Glen, Suarez missed the 2018 Cup Playoffs. He capped off the season with three top-10 results during the remaining 10 events on the schedule before ending up in 21st place in the final standings.

In 2019, Suarez, who was replaced by Martin Truex Jr. at Joe Gibbs Racing, joined forces with Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) to pilot the No. 41 Ford Mustang entry on a full-time Cup basis. Suarez’s first campaign with SHR commenced by wrecking out of the 61st running of the Daytona 500 after he was involved in a late multi-car wreck, which marked his third consecutive DNF in the Cup Series season opener. He would rally by finishing 10th during the following weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway before he racked up five additional top-10 results during his next 13 starts, including a season-best third-place result at Texas Motor Speedway in April. At Kentucky Speedway, Suarez notched his second Cup career pole and would proceed to finish eighth after leading 52 laps. Despite accumulating two additional top-10 results during the remaining six events on the regular-season schedule, he missed the Playoffs by four points. He would proceed to record two top-10 results, including a second third-place run at Texas in November, over the 10-race Playoff stretch before achieving a 17th-place result in the final standings. By then, Suarez led a total of 166 laps throughout the season, notched 11 top-10 results, recorded his second-best average-finishing result overall at 16.4 and surpassed 100 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

After losing his Stewart-Haas Racing ride to Cole Custer for the 2020 season, Suarez ended up joining forces with Gaunt Brothers Racing for a full-time Cup bid. His season commenced on a low note by failing to qualify for the 62nd running of the Daytona 500 after he was involved in a wreck during the first of two Daytona Duels and since his Gaunt Brothers Racing entry did not have an automatic berth to the 500. Overall, Suarez achieved a pair of season-best results of 18th-place finishes (Bristol Motor Speedway in June and at Kansas Speedway in July) before he ended up in a career-low 31st place in the final standings.

In October 2020, Suarez was announced as a Cup Series competitor for the newly formed Trackhouse Racing, a team owned by Justin Marks and Armando Christian “Pitbull” Perez, for the 2021 season. He commenced the season by ending up in 36th place during the 63rd running of the Daytona 500 after he was eliminated in an early multi-car wreck. Six races later, he recorded a strong fourth-place run during the series’ inaugural event at the Bristol Motor Speedway Dirt Course after leading 58 laps. Despite claiming two additional top-10 results and a total of nine top-15 runs throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, Suarez, who was involving in a final lap multi-car wreck during the regular-season finale at Daytona in August while contending for the victory, fell short of making the 2021 Cup Series Playoffs. After managing to record a single top-10 result over the final 10 races of the season, he finished in 25th place in the final standings.

Remaining at Trackhouse Racing that grew to a two-car operation and recruited Ross Chastain for the 2022 season, Suarez achieved a breakout season that commenced by finishing 18th during the 64th running of the Daytona 500 before he finished fourth the following weekend at Auto Club Speedway after contending for the victory in the closing laps. Despite recording a total of three top-10 finishes throughout his next 13-scheduled starts, he led a total of 156 laps during the span. Then at Sonoma Raceway in June, Suarez triumphed for the first time in the Cup Series and in his 95th career start after he led 47 laps, including the final 26, en route to his first win. With the victory, Suarez became the 202nd competitor and the first Mexican-born competitor to win in NASCAR’s premier series. By virtue of winning at Sonoma, he also clinched a Playoff berth for the first time in his career.

After finishing in the top 10 five times during the remaining 10 events on the regular-season schedule, Suarez commenced his first Playoff appearance by transferring from the Round of 16 to 12 with three consecutive top-20 results. Then after finishing eighth and 12th, respectively, during the Round of 12, Suarez’s title hopes came to an end after he ended up in 36th place during the Round of 12 finale while being mired with a power steering issue and a late run-in with Corey LaJoie. Managing a single top-10 result within the final four events of the season, Suarez managed to finish in a career-best 10th place in the final standings. Overall, he achieved career-high stats in top fives (six), top 10s (13) and laps led (280) while recording an average-finishing result of 16.5 throughout the 2022 season. By then, he also surpassed 200 Cup career starts.

Suarez’s 2023 Cup season commenced on his strongest start to date by finishing seventh during the 65th running of the Daytona 500 before he finished in the top 10 during the following two weekends. He then finished no higher than 17th during his next six starts before he rallied by finishing ninth at Talladega Superspeedway in April. With only three additional top-10 results, including a season-best second-place finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway in July, recorded over the remaining 16 regular-season events, Suarez missed the Playoffs. With two additional top-10 results generated throughout the 10-race Playoff stretch, he claimed 19th place in the final standings.

This past season, Suarez commenced the season by finishing 34th in the 66th running of the Daytona 500 after he was collected in a late multi-car wreck while contending for the victory. Then during the second event of the season at Atlanta, he edged Ryan Blaney and Kyle Busch in a three-wide photo finish, where he nosed ahead of the former by 0.003 seconds and the latter by 0.007 seconds, to capture his second Cup career victory and his first on a superspeedway/oval circuit. Despite accumulating only five additional top-10 results for the remaining 24 regular-season events on the schedule, the Atlanta victory was enough for Suarez to make his second appearance in the Playoffs as a contender. With respective finishes of second, 13th and 31st throughout the Round of 16, Suarez managed to transfer into the Round of 12. His Playoff run, however, came to an end following the Round of 12 for a second time after he finished no higher than 13th on the track. With two top-10 results recorded over the remaining four-scheduled events, Suarez finished in 12th place in the 2024 final standings.

Through 299 previous Cup starts, Suarez has achieved two victories, three poles, 23 top-five results, 71 top-10 results, 886 laps led and an average-finishing result of 18.9. He is currently ranked in 27th place in the 2025 driver’s standings and has finished in the top 10 three times through the first 12-scheduled events. He continues his pursuit for both his first victory of this season and a guaranteed berth to a third career berth to the Playoffs.

Daniel Suarez is scheduled to make his 300th Cup Series career start at Charlotte Motor Speedway for the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 25, at 6 p.m. ET on Prime Video.

Berry, eero Team to Honor Cpl. Ian Zook During Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte

By
Official Release
-

In one of his most popular songs, Billy Ray Cyrus summed up one of the sad realities of wartime service when he sang, “All gave some, some gave all.”

Cpl. Ian Thomas Zook, a United States Marine, is among those who gave all. He was killed in action in Iraq on Oct. 12, 2004, at the age of 24.

Originally from Peoria, Ill., Zook later moved to Florida with his family. According to published reports, he was valedictorian of his high school class and initially pursued missionary work before joining the Marines in 2001 with aspirations of becoming a law enforcement officer.

This weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Josh Berry and the Wood Brothers Racing team will honor Cpl. Zook as part of NASCAR’s 600 Miles of Remembrance program with Zook’s name being displayed on the windshield of the No. 21 eero Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

The Coca-Cola 600 marks eero’s second primary race on the No. 21. In its debut at Phoenix Raceway earlier this season, Berry qualified inside the top five and delivered a strong run, contending inside the top 10 for much of the afternoon before delivering an impressive fourth-place finish, one week before scoring his first career NASCAR Cup Series victory.

A strong showing on Sunday would be a meaningful way for the team to honor Zook’s legacy, and they’re confident in their chances. The No. 21 car has shown impressive speed on intermediate-length tracks this season.

“It’s the longest race in our sport, and that opens up a lot of opportunities for comers and goers,” Berry said during a recent media availability. “You obviously have to have a good balance to start the race, but then it cools off and you’ve got to stay up with the track. It’s just a grind.”

“I’m really excited to get there with the speed we’ve had on the intermediates,” he added. “The 600 is a crown jewel. The pre-race is a lot of fun and really special. We’re excited to get there.”

Practice at Charlotte is set for Saturday at 1:30 p.m. ET, followed by qualifying at 2:40 p.m. Sunday’s 400-lap, 600-mile race will go green just after 6 p.m., with stage breaks at Laps 100, 200 and 300. Coverage of the on-track activity will be carried on Prime Video.

About eero
eero was founded to make wifi and networking the way they should be—fast, reliable, secure, and, most importantly, easy to use. After introducing the first home mesh wifi system with a high-quality design that blends into its environment and technology that intuitively works behind the scenes, eero became known for sweating every single detail and delivering award-winning hardware and software for homes, businesses, communities, and service providers. Founded and headquartered in San Francisco in 2014, eero is an Amazon company. For more information, visit eero.com.

About Wood Brothers Racing
Founded in 1950 by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood in Stuart, Virginia, Wood Brothers Racing holds a special place in NASCAR history as the sport’s longest-running team. Over eight decades, the team has earned 101 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, along with 120 poles, and remains proud of its longstanding relationship with Ford Motor Company, fielding only Ford products since its inception. Glenn’s brother, Leonard Wood, played a key role in shaping modern racing by developing the techniques behind today’s pit stops. With a rich legacy rooted in innovation and tradition, Wood Brothers Racing continues to honor its heritage while adapting for the future as it competes in NASCAR’s premier series with Josh Berry.

Kyle Larson Foundation Announces 2nd Annual Auction to Benefit Urban Youth Racing School

By
Official Release
-

Doubles up with Team Chevy Drivers across NASCAR and INDYCAR to benefit Urban Youth Racing School

 MOORESVILLE, N.C. (May 21, 2025) – While NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson is attempting “The Double” this weekend, traveling between Indianapolis and Charlotte to race for 1,100 miles in one day, his charitable foundation is working on a double of its own – this time with Team Chevy drivers across both NASCAR and INDYCAR. The Kyle Larson Foundation announced today that it will once again partner with Chevrolet and Pristine Auction, and with the generous donation of race shields from 48 Team Chevy drivers from the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and INDYCAR, will raise funds for the Philadelphia-based Urban Youth Racing School. Each shield will be autographed by both Larson and the respective Team Chevy driver.

“Last year’s visor auction was such a success, and we are excited to do it again and to include the INDYCAR teams this year,” NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson stated. “A big thank you to my partners at Pristine Auction, Chevrolet, and all the drivers participating in this program to help support my friends at the Urban Youth Racing School.”

Chevrolet has been a proud supporter of the Urban Youth Racing School for 25 years, with the Kyle Larson Foundation joining as a patron since its 2021 inception. Established in 1998 by Anthony and Michelle Martin, the program is committed to teaching students about STEM through motorsports and providing them a positive environment.

The online auction will begin on Friday, May 23, at 12 p.m. ET on the Pristine Auction website (prstn.co/klf-visor) and it will run through Tuesday, May 27, at 10 p.m. ET. The starting bid for all visors is $25. Once purchased, the visors will be shipped to winning bidders approximately four weeks after the auction ends, along with a Certificate of Authenticity issued from Pristine Auction.

visors

 
TEAM CHEVY DRIVERS PARTICIPATING

NASCAR Cup Series
AJ AllmendingerAlex Bowman
Anthony Alfredo
Austin Dillon
Carson Hocevar
Chase Elliott
Daniel Suarez
Justin HaleyKyle Busch
Kyle Larson
Michael McDowell
Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
Ross Chastain
Shane van Gisbergen
Ty Dillon
William Byron		NASCAR Xfinity Series
Austin Hill
Blaine Perkins
Brennan Poole
Carson Kvapil
Christian Eckes
Connor Zilisch
Daniel Dye
Jeb Burton
Jeremy Clements
Jesse Love
Josh Williams
Justin Allgaier
Katherine Legge
Matt DiBenedetto
Nick Sanchez
Parker Retzlaff
Ryan Ellis
Sammy Smith		INDYCAR Series
Alexander Rossi (shoes)
Christian Lundgaard
Christian Rasmussen
Conor DalyEd CarpenterJack Harvey
Josef Newgarden
Kyle LarsonNolan Siegel
Pato O’WardRyan Hunter-Reay
Santino Ferrucci (gloves)
Scott McLaughlin
Will Power
Tony Kanaan – Team   Principle (hat)

About the Kyle Larson Foundation

The Kyle Larson Foundation is dedicated to bringing people together and providing support to hands-on charitable organizations that benefit today’s youth, families and communities in need. Learn more at kylelarsonfoundation.org.

About the Urban Youth Driving School

The mission of UYSA Center of Excellence is to provide urban youth with exposure to an educational initiative that will engage them in STEM in a more holistic way by teaching them how to think critically and independently through preparing them to embrace the depths of all academic subjects for obtaining the skills necessary for successful STEM careers. The Urban Youth Racing School offers a 10-week program for urban students ages 8-18, with the goal to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics via the magic of motorsports and prepare students for a fast-paced career in the competitive world of professional racing. Learn more at uyrs.com.

Rebel Bourbon and Childress Vineyards Introduce Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish

By
Official Release
-

The latest limited-edition offering will be available in North Carolina and at Lux Row Distillers

ST. LOUIS (May 21, 2025) – Bardstown, Kentucky-based Rebel Bourbon – the Official Bourbon of Richard Childress Racing (RCR) – teamed up with Childress Vineyards on the release of Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish. This limited-release offering features Rebel’s original time-honored wheated recipe, aged four years, finished in Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc barrels and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV). The result is a one-of-a-kind bourbon with unique flavor notes of sweet plums, honey and bright berries. An allocation of 500 cases (6-in) of Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish will be available at North Carolina ABC stores and at Lux Row Distillers beginning this month at a minimum suggested retail price of $39.99 per 750mL bottle.

“We selected the Cabernet Franc barrels from Childress Vineyards because we wanted to craft a smooth, high-proof bourbon with tasting notes of sweet berry, oak, caramel, vanilla and spice,” said Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe. “Cabernet Franc was the perfect match for our wheated Rebel recipe, and the result is incredible.”

Childress Vineyards features over 70 acres of vineyards and 15 varieties of European Vitis vinifera cultivars at two vineyard sites in North Carolina: Richard’s Hampton Road Estate in Davidson County and Vineyard Crossing at the winery site. The terroir, with its combination of humid climate, long growing season and gravelly, red clay soil are the key natural features of Childress Vineyards, producing a broad range of over 30 wines to appeal to both the introductory palate and the seasoned taster.

“At Childress Vineyards, we take great pride in both our wines and our partnerships, especially with Rebel Bourbon,” said Childress Vineyards Chief Operating Officer Elizabeth Brown. “Working with Rebel has allowed us to push the boundaries of collaboration, exploring new ways to blend our passion for winemaking with their rich bourbon heritage. We knew Rebel would be the perfect fit for Childress Vineyards as we continue to innovate and grow, delivering unique experiences that celebrate both our craft and our shared commitment to excellence.”

Earlier this year Rebel Bourbon announced the continuation of its sponsorship of Richard Childress Racing and driver Kyle Busch for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. In February, Rebel released Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel Bourbon, a limited-edition release featuring hand-bottled barrels selected by Busch with the guidance of Rempe.

“From racing to winemaking, Richard and the RCR team embody the true spirit of being a Rebel,” said Rebel Bourbon Brand Manager Philip Lux. “We’re proud to once again team up with RCR and create a unique bourbon that is sure to make racing fans, wine lovers and bourbon aficionados take notice.”

Childress Vineyards plans to mark the launch of Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish with a private celebration.

To learn more about Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish visit RebelBourbon.com. To find a bottle, visit Lux Row Distillers in person or a North Carolina ABC store.

About Rebel Bourbon

Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe, Rebel Bourbon features a wheated mash bill true to its original recipe dating back to 1849, when it was invented at the Stitzel-Weller distillery. Our defiantly smooth premium wheated bourbon celebrates those who embrace bold originality and a rebellious spirit. Our products have earned top spirits industry honors including double platinum at the 2024 ASCOT awards, platinum and best of class at the 2024 SIP Awards and gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for Rebel 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. To learn more, visit RebelBourbon.com and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

About Luxco

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products with a mission to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Luxco operates as MGP Ingredients Inc. (Nasdaq: MGPI) Branded Spirits division since its acquisition in 2021. The company’s extensive and award-winning premium portfolio includes brands from four distilleries: Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Penelope and Remus bourbon are produced; Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Rebel, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath bourbons; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Bourbon; and Arandas, Mexico-based Destiladora Gonzalez Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas including El Mayor and Exotico. For more information, visit Luxco.com.

About Childress Vineyards

Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley, Childress Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been delighting guests for over 20 years with its award-winning wines and Southern hospitality. Founded by Richard Childress, the winery combines a deep passion for crafting exceptional wines with a dedication to providing guests with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re enjoying a tasting of our renowned reds, whites, rosés, or specialty offerings, or indulging in a delicious meal at The Bistro, Childress Vineyards delivers the warmth and charm of the South. With a commitment to excellence, we invite you to relax, unwind, and savor the finest wines in a picturesque setting. For more information, visit www.childressvineyards.com.

About Richard Childress Racing

Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2025 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Jesse Love (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

HFT Advance | Coke 600

By
Official Release
-

Coca-Cola 600 Event Info:
Date: Sunday, May 25
Time: 6 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Concord, N.C.
Format: 400 Laps, 600 Miles
TV: Prime
Radio: PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 11:05 a.m. ET, Xfinity Practice (CW App, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 12:10 p.m. ET, Xfinity Qualifying (CW App, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 1:30 p.m. ET, Cup Practice (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 2:40 p.m. ET, Cup Qualifying (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 4:30 p.m. ET, Xfinity Race (CW, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 6 p.m. ET, Cup Race (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • The NASCAR schedule turns to Charlotte Motor Speedway this weekend as the NASCAR Cup Series is set for the famed Coca-Cola 600 Sunday night.
  • This year, NASCAR Salutes begins on Memorial Day Weekend, anchored by a special tribute called “600 Miles of Remembrance” where every Cup Series car in Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600 will feature the name of a fallen service member on the windshield.

Cole Custer Team Info:
Crew Chief: Aaron Kramer
Partner: Texas A&M

Sheldon Creed Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jonathan Toney
Partner: Pit Boss

Sam Mayer Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jason Trinchere
Partner: Audibel

Custer at Charlotte (Cup)
Starts: 4
Wins: —
Top-10s: —
Poles: —

  • Custer makes his 5th Cup start at Charlotte this weekend, where he has a 18.0 average finish. His best finish came in 2020 when he finished 12th, and he has never finished worse than 21st.
  • He has started inside the top-10 once, rolling off P9 start in 2020 which is his best start. He boasts a 20.3 average starting position.
  • Custer has also made seven NXS starts at Charlotte, with five top-10 finishes, including three in the top 5.

Creed at Charlotte (Xfinity)
Starts: 3
Wins: —
Top-10s: 1
Poles: —

  • Creed is set to make his 4th Xfinity start at Charlotte on Saturday, where he has one career top-10 finish. His best finish came in 2022 when he finished eighth after starting 18th, and led nine laps in last year’s race.
  • His best career starting position was P13 in that same race, and he holds an average starting position of 18.3.

Mayer at Charlotte (Xfinity)
Starts: 3
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: 1 (2022)

  • Mayer is in line for his 4th Xfinity start at Charlotte this weekend, coming off a third-place finish in last season’s race after starting 13th. He has two career top-10 finishes at CMS, and has an average finish of 14.0.
  • He has started inside the top 10 twice, including a pole in 2022, and has an average starting position of 7.3.

Where They Stand

Cup Points Standings (41: 34th): Custer is 34th in the Cup Series points standings through 12 races this season with 139 points.

Xfinity Points Standings (41: 3rd, 00: 11th): Mayer sits second in the Xfinity points standings with 391 total points on the season, while Creed is in 11th place with 304 points heading into Charlotte this Saturday.

CHEVROLET EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH POCONO RACEWAY

By
Official Release
-
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado RST will be the official pace vehicle for the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series’ MillerTech Battery 200 on Friday, June 20, to kick off the NASCAR tripleheader weekend at Pocono Raceway. Photo credit: Pocono Raceway.

One of the world’s leading vehicle brands continues its partnership of more than two decades with a multi-year extension as “The Official Vehicle of Pocono Raceway.”

LONG POND, Pa. (May 21, 2025) – Chevrolet will continue its partnership of more than two decades with Pocono Raceway through a multi-year extension of its official status role.

Chevrolet will continue to serve as the “Official Vehicle of Pocono Raceway” with a number of promotional vehicles being prominently featured during the June 20-22 NASCAR tripleheader weekend.

The pace vehicle lineup for the 2025 NASCAR tripleheader weekend at Pocono Raceway will feature the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, which will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Cup Series’ The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VISITPA.COM on Sunday, June 22, and the Xfinity Series’ Explore the Pocono Mountains 250 on Saturday, June 21. The Chevrolet Silverado RST will return as the pace vehicle for the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, with the division kicking off the event weekend Friday, June 20, with the MillerTech Battery 200.

“Chevrolet is thrilled to continue its long-standing partnership with Pocono Raceway,” said Todd Christensen, Director of Motorsports Marketing & Activation for Chevrolet. “We are proud of the partnership we’ve built with Pocono over the last two decades and look forward to the opportunity to further serve as the official vehicle at such a historic venue in motorsports.”

Also, the Pocono Raceway fire and safety team, as well as the track services department, will feature a fleet of Chevrolet Silverado 2500 trucks for their race weekend responsibilities.

“For more than two decades, Pocono Raceway has been proud to partner with such an iconic brand as Chevrolet,” Pocono President Ben May said. “Over that time, performance, reliability and style have been the hallmarks of our shared success. There will be plenty of visibility of the Chevy vehicles throughout the weekend, from pacing the NASCAR fields to our track services, fire and safety teams.”

Chevrolet has enjoyed immense on-track success at Pocono Raceway since “The Tricky Triangle” hosted its first NASCAR Cup Series race in 1974. Chevy has won a manufacturer-best 34 of the 91 Cup races contested, with its first win coming from Benny Parsons in 1977.

For ticket information and news on the NASCAR race weekend, please visit www.poconoraceway.com.

About General Motors

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

About Pocono Raceway

Pocono Raceway, also known as ‘The Tricky Triangle,’ is family-owned and situated in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. In business for over 60 years, the Raceway hosts multiple, national motorsports events including the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events each year. The facility’s calendar also consists of over 300 events including Elements Music & Arts Festival and a wide range of entertainment events, car clubs and racing schools. Pocono Raceway is recognized as the world’s first, privately-owned solar-powered sports facility. Their 25-acre, three-megawatt solar farm provides the energy needs of the Raceway, as well as, adds electricity to the local power grid. Each member of our raceway staff is committed to creating exciting experiences and lifelong memories. For more information, please visit www.poconoraceway.com.

1...483484485...6,653Page 484 of 6,653