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MUCKLESHOOT CASINO RESORT NHRA NORTHWEST NATIONALS KICKS OFF SECOND HALF OF 2025 NHRA SEASON WITH UNIQUE WEEKEND

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Official Release
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SEATTLE (July 2, 2025) – The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ annual trip to Pacific Raceways for the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals on July 18-20 promises to be one of the most thrilling in the event’s storied 36-year history.

From nitro at night on Friday to three rounds of 12,000-horsepower, 340-mph action on Saturday to eliminations on Sunday, Pacific Raceways will host one of the most unique and memorable weekends on the NHRA tour.

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, the race at Pacific Raceways kicks off the second half of the year. After an incredible night racing debut last year, the track will once again feature a Friday Primetime qualifier. Deecell Power Systems will sponsor the “After Dark Low Qualifier,” awarding a bonus to the low qualifier of the must-see night session in the four NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series categories.

That leads into a can’t-miss Saturday that features three nitro qualifying sessions – along with the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge – as the 11th race of the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season will be action-packed from start to finish.

The weekend kicks off with $15,000 Mission Foods Machine Tournament at Muckleshoot Casino Resort, where fans can register for free. It’s followed by a fan fest at Auburn Outlets Collection on Thursday, July 17 at 5 p.m. PT. On Saturday following qualifying, race fans can visit Muckleshoot Casino Resort for the official NHRA after-party with live music from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. PT.

The Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals will again be broadcast on FOX with elimination coverage on Sunday at 4:30 ET p.m. Last year, Steve Torrence (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock) and Chase Van Sant (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all picked up victories, while Justin Ashley, Prock, Aaron Stanfield and Gaige Herrera won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge bonus race.

Four-time Top Fuel champion Torrence earned his second consecutive race win at Pacific Raceways last season when he took down Shawn Langdon. Torrence picked up an event win this season in Bristol, while Langdon has two wins to his credit. Leading the Top Fuel points is motorsports legend and 2024 Rookie of the Year Tony Stewart. Others to watch include Ashley, who has won back-to-back races, Brittany Force and reigning world champion Antron Brown.

Defending Funny Car world champion Prock continues to impress race fans in 2025 as he once again leads the points after collecting four event wins. He won his second Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals last season over Paul Lee, after winning in Top Fuel in 2019. Prock’s John Force Racing teammate Jack Beckman is second in points, with the help of his two wins this season. Funny Car veteran Ron Capps is fourth, earning a win in Bristol. Seattle is special to Capps as it marked his first NHRA professional win in 1995 when he won in Top Fuel.

The Pro Stock ranks has been dominated this season by the KB Titan Racing powerhouse, led by reigning champion Greg Anderson. He has four wins, while his teammate Dallas Glenn has three. Cory Reed earned his career first win in Norwalk. Others to watch include multi-time champs Erica Enders and Jeg Coughlin.

Pro Stock Motorcycle is again led by reigning champion Herrera, who has three wins in 2025. Six-time champ Matt Smith is second, while Herrera’s teammate Richard Gadson is third. Others to watch will be John Hall, who won for the first time in 12 years when he won in Norwalk, as well as Angie Smith, Jianna Evaristo and Van Sant.

Also on the track will be the standouts in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. All weekend, fans will be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits. The stage hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, autograph sessions and more. Seattle race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. Fans are also invited to congratulate the winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday.

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 cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds of qualifying on Friday, July 18 for the Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes at 6:40 and 8:15 p.m. PT, with Top Fuel and Funny Car taking to the track at 9:15 p.m. PT. On Saturday, July 19, nitro teams will qualify three times at 12:30 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 5 p.m. Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will qualify at 3:45 p.m. and 6:05. Race day will kick off with nitro eliminations on Sunday, July 20 at 10:30 a.m.

Television coverage includes qualifying action at 10 p.m. ET on Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday on FS1, leading into eliminations on FOX at 4:30 p.m. ET on Sunday.

Tickets for the 36th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals are currently on sale at www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com. For more information on Muckleshoot Casino Resort, visit https://muckleshootcasino.com.

About Muckleshoot Casino Resort

The Muckleshoot Casino Resort, celebrated as the “Biggest and Best in the Northwest,” has just become even more impressive with the unveiling of their new hotel tower. This exciting expansion features 401 elegant guestrooms, a more expansive casino floor, a serene indoor pool, a luxurious spa, and the exquisite rooftop steakhouse, Smoke & Cedar. From here, guests can indulge in breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountain range, and the Seattle skyline. As one of Washington’s premier casino gaming destinations, Muckleshoot Casino offers the largest selection of games in the state, with over 3,500 machines, an array of table games, and one of the most extensive smoke-free gaming areas in the region. Muckleshoot Casino also tantalizes the taste buds with a variety of dining options that take guests on a culinary adventure around the world and provides world-class entertainment at the Muckleshoot Events Center and Galaxy! Guests can enjoy additional perks like complimentary valet service, Wi-Fi, covered parking, and electric vehicle charging stations, making every visit even more convenient and enjoyable. https://muckleshootcasino.com

About Muckleshoot Indian Tribe

The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is composed of descendants of the Native people who inhabited the Duwamish and Upper Puyallup watersheds of central Puget Sound for thousands of years before non-Indian settlement. The word, Muckleshoot, is derived from the Native name for the prairie on which the tribe’s reservation was established in 1857. Today, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a major contributor to the local economy and community providing resources to other governments, schools, nonprofits, and churches throughout Washington. The benefits of the Muckleshoot Tribe’s economic revival go well beyond financial contributions. From landmark agreements protecting fish and wildlife habitats and innovative educational programming to hundreds of partnerships with organizations serving those in need throughout the state, the Muckleshoot Tribe is committed to improving the quality of life of its citizens, neighbors and work force while preserving its culture and laying the groundwork for a bright future. https://www.muckleshoot.nsn.us

About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

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

Front Row Motorsports: Chicago Street Race Competition Notes – Noah Gragson

By
Official Release
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Noah Gragson and the No. 4 Rasmussen Air & Gas Energy Ford Team
Chicago Street Race Competition Notes
Grant Park 165

Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
Event: Race 21 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Chicago Street Course (2.2-miles)
#of Laps: 75
Time/TV/Radio: 2:00 PM ET on TNT/MRN/SiriusXM channel 90

Noah Gragson Notes

Following last Saturday’s race at the EchoPark Speedway, Noah Gragson advanced to Round 2 in NASCAR’s In-Season Challenge, beating his former Stewart-Haas Racing teammate, Chase Briscoe. He will face another former SHR teammate this weekend in the Challenge, going head-to-head with Ryan Preece at the Chicago Street Race. In two previous starts at the 2.2-mile street course, Gragson has one top-15 finish, finishing 14th in 2024 with Stewart-Haas Racing.

Rasmussen Air & Gas Energy (RAGE) returns with Front Row Motorsports to partner with Gragson and the No. 4 team for the 165-mile event. RAGE proudly manufactures, rents, sells, and services industrial air compressor systems and compressed gas equipment. Proudly based in Waterloo, Nebraska, RAGE has grown into a national operation with employees across the country and regional offices in Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, and Kentucky.

“At RAGE, we believe compressed air and gas deserve a seat at the table, right beside water, electricity, and natural gas, that’s why we call it the Fourth Utility,” said Larry Rasmussen, CEO, RAGE. “Compressed air powers nearly every product made today – and we engineer the systems that keep it flowing. Our return to NASCAR and FRM is more than visibility – it’s a celebration of what powers performance: speed, teamwork, and the technology behind the scenes.”

“I spent time with Larry this week and was educated on the Fourth Utility – on race day, air powers our tools in the pits,” said Gragson. “What we do in a pit stop, RAGE does in plants across America. There’s something special about running an American company on the car, even more so over the fourth of July weekend – it just feels right.”

Road Crew

Driver: Noah Gragson

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Crew Chief: Drew Blickensderfer

Hometown: Decatur, Illinois

Car Chief: Joey Forgette

Hometown: Iron Mountain, Michigan

Engineer: Dillon Silverman

Hometown: Chico, California

Engineer: Scott Bingham

Hometown: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Mechanic: Chris Trickett

Hometown: Grafton, West Virginia

Mechanic: Tony Infinger

Hometown: Fort Valley, Georgia

Tire Specialist: Chris Aunspaw

Hometown: Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Engine Tuner: Matt Moeller

Hometown: Monroe, New York

Spotter: Nick Del Campo

Hometown: Blauvelt, New York

Transporter Co-Driver: Nate “Cookie” Eller

Hometown: Granite Falls, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Matt Murphy

Hometown: Augusta, Georgia

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Thomas Hatcher

Hometown: Middleburg, Florida

Rear Tire Changer: Adam Riley

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Tire Carrier: Jarren Davis

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Jackman: Nate McBride

Hometown: Vidalia, Georgia

Fueler: Ray Hernandez

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

RASMUSSEN AIR & GAS ENERGY

Rasmussen Air & Gas Energy was created and began doing business on March 1, 2013. We had the opportunity to take on a product line and ran with it. The name “RAGE” came from combining a few core words that make up our business- air, gas and energy. Adding in Rasmussen made the acronym, RAGE that has taken on a life of its own. Everyone wants “swag” to represent RAGE and you can spot our logo on vehicles driving down the road all over the United States.

What is RAGE? Compressed air systems and compressed gas systems are our core competence. The technologies range from fractional HP to 5,000 HP. Our territory is constantly expanding, and we have the top service technical team that travels to you. We feel our competition does a really good job, but RAGE takes it to the next level.

Why RAGE? At our core, we have an add value mentality. Not only do we provide efficiency and uptime for our customers, but we also have the best of the best within our organization. Without good people, there is no success. There is no doubt that RAGE is victorious because of our people. For more information, visit rage-energy.com.

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.

Front Row Motorsports: Chicago Street Race Competition Notes- Todd Gilliland

By
Official Release
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Todd Gilliland and the No. 34 Grillo’s Pickles Ford Team
Chicago Street Race Competition Notes
Grant Park 165

Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
Event: Race 21 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Chicago Street Course (2.2-miles)
#of Laps: 75
Time/TV/Radio: 2:00 PM ET on TNT/MRN/SiriusXM channel 90

Todd Gilliland Notes

Following last Saturday’s race at the EchoPark Speedway, Todd Gilliland will head to Chicago, Illinois where he will have to navigate the turns of the Chicago Street Course. In two previous starts at the 2.2-mile street circuit, Gilliland has one top-10 finish, finishing seventh in 2024.

Grillo’s Pickles will partner with Gilliland for the 75-lap event, debuting a new “Hot Pickle” scheme on the No. 34 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. “It’s been hard keeping this scheme a secret,” said Gilliland. “It’s been a work in progress all season, so I’m excited to show it off in Chicago and hopefully drive it up front.”

Grillo’s Pickles will host their “Grillo’s Pickles 500” pop-up event at the Vault Gallerie in Chicago from July 3–6, open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM CDT. The first 100 fans on July 3rd will receive a Grillo’s Pickles hero card signed by Todd Gilliland. On July 4, fans can enjoy a free Chicago-style hot dog until 12:00 PM or while supplies last. On July 5, the event will feature a live art show from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, followed by an appearance from Front Row Motorsports drivers, Gilliland, Noah Gragson and Zane Smith, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM.

“Chicago’s going to be a lot of fun,” said Gilliland. “It’s a tough track with very little margin for error, but that’s what makes it so exciting. We’ve got a big weekend with Grillo’s Pickles rolling out the ‘Hot Pickle’ scheme and their pop-up event, so I’m pumped to get there and be part of it all.”

Road Crew

Driver: Todd Gilliland

Hometown: Sherrills Ford, North Carolina

Crew Chief: Chris Lawson

Hometown: Medway, Ohio

Car Chief: Joe Marra

Hometown: Somers, New York

Engineer: Marc Rullo

Hometown: Ringwood, New Jersey

Engineer: Kevyn Rebolledo

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Spotter: Brit Andersen

Hometown: Branford, Connecticut

Underneath Mechanic: Michael Brookes

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

Interior Mechanic: Chance Burke

Hometown: Siler City, North Carolina

Tire Specialist: Billy John

Hometown: Pitman, New Jersey

Engine Tuner: Tim Meyer

Hometown: Beatrice, Nebraska

Transporter Driver: Christian Boller

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Danny Olszowy

Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky

Rear Tire Changer: Justin Fox

Hometown: Concord, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Paul Steele

Hometown: Wichita, Kansas

Jackman: Landon Honeycutt

Hometown: Mount Pleasant, North Carolina

Fueler: Zeke Nance

Hometown: Calhoun, Georgia

ABOUT GRILLO’S PICKLES

For people who want freshness, Grillo’s is the pickle company that is changing the game. That’s because Grillo’s uses only clean, garden-fresh ingredients to make deliciously simple foods that deliver all the crunchy, tangy, satisfying flavor you’ve been searching for, with none of the junk. How do we do it? Our products are made cold, shipped cold, and consumed cold. You get an incredible crunch, and we never have to mess with artificial preservatives. In fact, the only thing traditional about us is our 100-year-old family recipe. The rest? It’s fresh. Grillo’s offers mouthwatering bites nationwide with their selection of spears, chips, wholes and Pickle de Gallo. For more information, visit GrillosPickles.com or contact grillos@autumncommunications.com.

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.

Front Row Motorsports: Chicago Street Race Competition Notes – Zane Smith

By
Official Release
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Zane Smith and the No. 38 Vermeer Midwest Ford Team
Chicago Street Race Competition Notes
Grant Park 165

Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
Event: Race 21 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Chicago Street Course (2.2-miles)
#of Laps: 75
Time/TV/Radio: 2:00 PM ET on TNT/MRN/SiriusXM channel 90

Zane Smith Notes

For the third year in a row, the NASCAR Cup Series will take on the streets of Chicago in a 75-lap event. For Zane Smith, this will be his second visit to the street course and first with Ryan Bergenty and the No. 38 team.

Vermeer Midwest will make their Front Row Motorsports debut this weekend with Smith and the No. 38 Ford. Established in 1971 by Junior and Bev Kool in Eureka, Illinois, Vermeer Midwest is a leading dealer of industrial equipment proudly serving Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Missouri for industries such as utility installation, landscaping, tree care, recycling, and vacuum excavation.

“Partnering with Zane Smith and the Front Row Motorsports crew gives us an incredible platform to connect with our team members and customers,” said Trey Hemming, General Manager, Vermeer Midwest. “Their dedication on the track reflects the same commitment we bring to our customers every day, and we’re proud to support a team that shares a culture of excellence and grit. We’re thrilled to be part of the action at the Chicago Street Race and can’t wait to cheer on the No. 38 car!”

“I’m really excited to have Vermeer Midwest come on board at Chicago,” said Smith. “The energy and excitement they’ve shown since the deal came together has been really cool, and there’s not many better races to have your first than the Chicago Street Race.”

Road Crew

Driver: Zane Smith

Hometown: Huntington Beach, California

Crew Chief: Ryan Bergenty

Hometown: Plainville, Connecticut

Car Chief: Will Norris

Hometown: Bells, Tennessee

Engineer: Jacob Clamme

Hometown: Hartford City, Indiana

Engineer: Chris Yerges

Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Mechanic: Steve Godfrey

Hometown: West Haven, Connecticut

Mechanic / Engine Tuner: Tyler Podlaski

Hometown: Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania

Interior Specialist: Matt Fowler

Hometown: Spartanburg, South Carolina

Spotter: Ryan Blanchard

Hometown: Bethlehem, Connecticut

Transport Co-Driver: Ernest Mullins

Hometown: Fayetteville, North Carolina

Transport Co-Driver: Rick Grissom

Hometown: Bakersfield, California

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Ryan Flores

Hometown: Manasquan, New Jersey

Rear Tire Changer: Austin Chrismon

Hometown: China Grove, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Drew Baum

Hometown: Williamsport, Pennsylvania

Jackman: Ryan Selig

Hometown: Lindenhurst, Illinois

Fueler: Chris Webb

Hometown: Concord, North Carolina

ABOUT VERMEER MIDWEST

Vermeer Midwest is a leading dealer of industrial equipment proudly serving Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Missouri. Established in 1971 by Junior and Bev Kool in Eureka, IL, Vermeer Midwest has grown to 13 locations. Their commitment to exceptional customer service and high-quality equipment has made them a trusted partner for contractors in industries such as utility installation, landscaping, tree care, recycling, and vacuum excavation. Visit vermeermidwest.com and follow Vermeer Midwest on social media: Instagram at @vermeermidwest and Facebook at facebook.com/VermeerMidwest.

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.

Toyota GAZOO Racing Weekly Preview 07.02.25

By
Official Release
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This Week in Motorsports: June 30 – July 6, 2025

· NCS/NXS: Chicago Street Race – July 5-6

PLANO, Texas (July 2, 2025) – NASCAR heads to the Windy City for its third race on the streets of Chicago this Fourth of July weekend. The Xfinity Series kicks off the racing action on Saturday, with the weekend culminating in the 75-lap Cup Series race Sunday afternoon.

NASCAR National Series – NCS/NXS

Five Camry drivers advance to second round of In-Season Challenge … After a wild race Saturday night in Atlanta, five Camry XSE drivers have advanced to the next round in NASCAR’s In-Season Challenge – Ty Gibbs, Bubba Wallace, John Hunter Nemechek, Erik Jones and Tyler Reddick. Each will have difficult matchups this weekend in Chicago with Gibbs versus AJ Allmendinger, Wallace taking on Alex Bowman, Nemechek facing Chase Elliott, Jones competing against Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and Reddick facing Carson Hocevar.

Jones catching momentum at the right time … Last weekend’s fifth-place finish at EchoPark Speedway continued the recent surge from Jones and the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE team at LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. Jones has finished inside the top-13 in six of the last eight races, with three of those coming inside the top-10. These solid finishes have catapulted Jones to 16th in the Cup Series driver standings, sitting 49 points back in the current Playoff standings, as he looks to close in on a spot in the postseason.

Heim returns to the No. 67 … For the third time this season, Corey Heim will pilot the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE for 23XI Racing, taking on the streets of Chicago on Sunday. This will be the first Cup Series road course start for Toyota Development Driver. Heim has already shown his road course racing skills in the Truck Series with three career wins – at Mid-Ohio Sportscar Course in 2023, Circuit of the Americas in 2024 and last weekend at Lime Rock Park where he led 99 of 100 laps on the way to victory.

Bell eager to continue road and street course success … Road courses have been circuits of success for Christopher Bell of late, with the Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) driver having three straight second-place-or-better finishes – second at the Charlotte ROVAL last fall and at Mexico City in June, along with his win at Circuit of the Americas in March. Bell also looks for points-paying win number four this weekend as the season inches closer to the Playoffs.

Perkins makes GR Supra debut … Australian Supercars driver Jack Perkins will pilot the No. 19 Toyota GR Supra for JGR in this weekend’s Xfinity Series race at Chicago. The Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, native is a previous race winner in the Australian racing series and makes his first of two starts for JGR this weekend as he is also scheduled to drive the No. 19 at Portland International Raceway in August.

Grala makes first Xfinity start of 2025 … NASCAR veteran Kaz Grala returns to the Xfinity Series this weekend in Chicago behind the wheel of the No. 24 GR Supra for Sam Hunt Racing. Saturday will be Grala’s 78th career start in the Xfinity Series, his 35th with Toyota, and his second on the streets of Chicago after finishing 10th in 2023.

About Toyota

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

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

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

SAGE KARAM PARTNERS WITH FLOOD BROTHERS FOR THE LOOP 110 AT CHICAGO

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, NC, July 1, 2024 – NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Sage Karam announced he will compete in this Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series The Loop 110 at Chicago Street Race in the No. 53 of Joey Gase Motorsports.

Oakbrook Terrace, Ill.-based Flood Brothers Disposal Co. will join Karam as the primary marketing partner.

“Flood Brothers is proud to partner with Sage Karam and the No. 53 car for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Street Race in Chicago. Every day, our fleet leads the way through these same downtown streets, delivering dependable waste and recycling service to the businesses and residents of this great city. Now, we’re excited to see Sage take the wheel and represent Flood Brothers on the very streets we serve. It’s a natural fit—hard work, grit, and performance—whether on the track or on the route,” said Kevin Flood, CEO of Flood Brothers Disposal Co.”

Flood Brothers Disposal Co. is a fifth-generation, family-owned, and operated waste and recycling provider proudly serving the Chicagoland area. With over a century of commitment to our community, they deliver exceptional waste management solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Their comprehensive services include residential, commercial, and industrial waste disposal, along with innovative recycling programs designed to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Rooted in their family’s legacy of integrity, reliability, and customer-centric service, Flood Brothers Disposal Co. combines modern technology with traditional values to ensure efficient, eco-friendly waste management. Their dedicated team works tirelessly to maintain the highest standards of service, fostering long-lasting relationships with the communities they serve. Choose Flood Brothers Disposal Co. for dependable, responsible waste and recycling solutions backed by generations of experience and a genuine passion for keeping Chicagoland clean and green.

“I’m proud to represent Flood Brothers in the Chicago Street Course and plan to clean up my competition just like Flood Brothers clean up the streets of Chicago,” said Karam. “I’m looking forward to a challenging race through a beautiful city.”

The Loop 110 (50 laps | 110 miles) is the 18th of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2025 schedule. Practice begins on Saturday, July 6 from 9:30 – 10:20 a.m. Qualifying immediately follows at 10:30 a.m. The field is set to take the green flag later in the day shortly after 3:30 p.m. with live coverage on The CW, the Motor Racing Network (Radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are Central Daylight Time.

For more information on Sage Karam, follow him on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SageKaram/), X (https://twitter.com/SageKaram) or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/sagekaramofficial/).

For more information on Flood Brothers Disposal Co., visit https://www.floodbrothersdisposal.com/ or follow them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/floodbrothersdisposal), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/floodbrosdisposal/) or LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/company/2556536?trk=tyah).

Meyer Shank Racing Heads Home For Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio INDYCAR Weekend

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Official Release
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Pataskala, Ohio (2 July 2025) – If it were in want of a theme song for this weekend’s NTT INDYCAR SERIES race at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Motley Crue’s Home Sweet Home would be Meyer Shank Racing’s (MSR) optimal nod to a sponsor and homage to its location.

The team’s shop is just 55 miles as the crow flies from the pit lane at Mid-Ohio where this week’s 10th round of the 2025 season takes place. As the series’ only team based in the Buckeye State, MSR has a short race-day trip to get to the paddock of the 2.258-mile circuit.

And the Crue song is the perfect accompaniment for the weekend as Felix Rosenqvist’s No. 60 SiriusXM Honda will carry the Ozzy’s Boneyard (XM channel 38) livery, celebrating the classic hard-rock, hosted by legendary singer and former Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne.

So far this year, the MSR duo of Rosenqvist and Marcus Armstrong (No. 66 Spectrum Honda) has been fast no matter what adorned its cars as the team is putting together its best INDYCAR season since the team’s 2017 inception. MSR has already set a team record with 12 top-10 finishes, placing 10th or better in eight of the year’s nine races. The team’s drivers have also led laps in six of the year’s events – also a MSR record.

After nine races Rosenqvist is tied for fourth in the standings while Armstrong has used three consecutive top-10 finishes to climb into 11th. His recent run has the young driver just one point out of a tie for ninth and seven markers out of seventh place.

This weekend’s 90-lap event around the 13-turn layout in Lexington, Ohio will be a stern test for MSR, as the home cooking has not always been palatable in its previous 11 starts. The team has four top-10 finishes in its 11 trips but none in the last two seasons. Last year saw MSR earn its best-ever Mid-Ohio start of third on qualifying day, but the lofty starting spot yielded just a 12th-place finish.

Rosenqvist’s relationship with Mid-Ohio is a joyous one with the Ohio-based circuit hosting the Swede’s first-ever laps in an Indy car back in 2016. Mid-Ohio is also the site of Rosenqvist’s first-ever career INDYCAR podium after he scored a second place finish in 2019.

Armstrong has finished ninth and 17th in the last two years at Mid-Ohio although he has finished on the lead lap in both outings.

Sunday’s 90-lap Honda Indy 200 of Mid-Ohio will air on FOX starting at 1 p.m. ET. Saturday’s qualifying will be shown live on FS1 beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET. SiriusXM will also host live INDYCAR Radio coverage of all of the weekend’s sessions on XM Ch. 218.

Meyer Shank Racing Driver Quotes:

Felix Rosenqvist: “I love Mid-Ohio. this track is very special to me as it’s where I drove an Indy car for the first time. It’s also our team’s home track and the place of my first podium. We have the Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne and Ozzy’s Boneyard wagon going this weekend as well, so there’s a lot to look forward to.”

Marcus Armstrong: “Mid-Ohio is one of my favorite circuits on the calendar. It’s a very tight and technical circuit and also very grippy since the repave. It’s an enjoyable track to do qualifying laps on and then obviously the race is fairly high paced as well. Very much looking forward to this weekend and building our momentum.”

JR Motorsports — NXS Chicago Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview
TRACK – Chicago Street Course (2.2-mile street course)
NXS RACE – The Loop 110 (50 laps / 110 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, MRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 4:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet

Kvapil 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 17

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 4

Top 10s: 7

Laps Led: 64

Avg. Finish: 13.8

Points: 6th

  • Coming off a runner-up finish at EchoPark Speedway, Carson Kvapil will make his first NASCAR Xfinity Series start on the Chicago Street Course.
  • After working his way from the back of the field to a second-place finish last weekend, Kvapil is ranked fifth in quality passes according to NASCAR Loop Data Statistics.
  • In celebration of the Fourth of July, Kvapil will once again be running a patriotic-themed Bass Pro Shops/Clarience Technologies scheme this weekend.

Carson Kvapil

“The Chicago Street Course is different than any track I have run on before, so I am looking forward to getting out there and running some laps. Our No. 1 Bass Pro Shops/Clarience Technologies Chevrolet has had speed on road courses this year, so I hope we can continue that this weekend. Our goal is to keep out of the mess and be upfront when it counts. We almost got it done last weekend, so we plan to keep up that momentum in Chicago.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

Allgaier 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 17

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 10

Top 10s: 11

Laps Led: 648

Avg. Finish: 12.1

Points: 1st

  • Justin Allgaier will return to his home state of Illinois this weekend for his third NXS start on the Chicago Street Course. He has scored one top-five and one top-10 finish in his two previous starts.
  • In 59 career starts on road courses in the NXS, Allgaier has earned three wins, 18 top-fives and 49 top-10s.
  • Two of his road-course victories were earned behind the wheel of a JRM Chevrolet, both taking place in 2018 at Mid-Ohio and Road America.

Justin Allgaier

“Being able to race in my home state of Illinois is always incredible, so I am really looking forward to heading back to the Chicago Street Course this weekend. We had a tough start to the weekend last year, so hopefully we can keep the nose clean and really show everything we have. I know this No. 7 team is going to bring a really fast BRANDT Professional Chevrolet capable of being out front. Being able to win in our home state would mean the world to Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) and me, so we are hoping to be contending for the win when it counts.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Allstate Peterbilt Group Chevrolet

Smith 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 17

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 3

Top 10s: 8

Laps Led: 40

Avg. Finish: 15.3

Points: 14th

  • Sammy Smith will take to the streets of Chicago this Saturday for the third time in his NXS career.
  • Smith has one top-10 finish on the Chicago Street Course placing sixth in 2023.
  • In 16 road course starts in the NXS, Smith has three top-five and six top-10 finishes.
  • According to NASCAR Loop Data Statistics, Smith is fifth best of the NXS series for average running position of 9.74.
  • In honor of racing on the Fourth of July weekend, the Allstate Peterbilt Group Chevrolet will feature a patriotic paint scheme.

Sammy Smith

“Racing on street courses adds another level of complexity with the imperfections of the surface. It requires a lot of consistency to hit your marks and avoid certain areas. We’ve only run in Chicago twice but JRM has always brought fast cars so I know we’ll have a competitive Allstate Peterbilt Group Chevrolet this weekend. I’m looking forward to it and debuting the patriotic scheme as well.”

Shane Van Gisbergen

No. 9 WeatherTech / Red Bull Chevrolet

Van Gisbergen NXS Career Stats

Starts: 33

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 10

Laps Led: 100

Avg. Finish: 16.5

Points: N/A

  • Shane van Gisbergen will make his second NXS start on the streets of Chicago this weekend, piloting the No. 9 WeatherTech/Red Bull Chevrolet for the first time this season. Van Gisbergen is on a quest for his second Chicago NXS win. He also won the NASCAR Cup Series race there in 2023.
  • Last year in Chicago, Van Gisbergen started from the pole position, led 14 laps and secured his second Xfinity Series career win, before going on to win at Sonoma the following weekend.
  • In 2023, Van Gisbergen won his debut NASCAR Cup Series race with Trackhouse’s PROJECT91 at Chicago, becoming one of six foreign-born drivers to win a NCS race and the first driver since Johnny Rutherford in 1963 to win his first NCS start.
  • In 2024, Van Gisbergen competed as a Trackhouse development driver, full-time in the Xfinity Series for Kaulig Racing while also running a 12-race schedule in the Cup Series. He won three Xfinity Series races, including at the Chicago Street Course.

Shane Van Gisbergen

“It’s going to be epic! I had a really awesome race there last year. I had a great Chevrolet and Kyle Larson and I fought it out for the win and we were giving each other thumbs up and stuff. The Xfinity cars are really raceable around a track like Chicago. There are some good guys in the Xfinity Series now, so I just want to make sure my No. 9 WeatherTech and Red Bull Chevrolet is in the battle and also have some fun. It’s going to be awesome to represent WeatherTech in their backyard and Red Bull on such a special event weekend. Thanks to JR Motorsports, Trackhouse and Chevrolet for giving me the opportunity.”

Connor Zilisch

No. 88 Red Bull / WeatherTech Chevrolet

Zilisch 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 16

Wins: 2

Top 5s: 6

Top 10s: 8

Laps Led: 272

Avg. Finish: 12.4

Points: 5th

  • Connor Zilisch enters this weekend’s race on the streets of Chicago riding a wave of success. Zilisch has reeled off five consecutive top-five finishes including a fourth-place finish this past weekend at EchoPark. His average finish during his recent hot streak is a sizzling 2.80.
  • Zilisch’s performance this season on road courses has been impressive. In two races, Zilisch has won both pole positions and led the most laps (43 total). He has two victories in three career road-race starts and he has won all three pole positions.
  • The driver of the Red Bull/WeatherTech Chevrolet leads all drivers with four pole positions this season – no other driver has more than two.
  • Zilisch enters Chicago fifth in the NXS driver standings, 15 points behind fourth-place Jesse Love and 38 ahead of sixth place. Zilisch and Kvapil are the leading Sunoco Rookie of the Year contenders.

Connor Zilisch

“I’m looking forward to Chicago. I really appreciate WeatherTech and Red Bull coming together to make this happen. SVG and I are good buddies. I’ve never really had the opportunity to race head-to-head with him. We’re going to be in the same cars so it’s going to be up to the driver. It’s a track that Shane has a little more experience on, but I love street courses. I’ve won races on street courses so hopefully I can pick up Chicago quickly and have a shot at it.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Chicago Street Course: JR Motorsports has competed at the Chicago Street Course a combined 10 times in the NXS since its first trip there in 2023. In those starts at the 2.2-mile street course, the organization has recorded one top-five and three top-10s, with an average finish of 15.1.

JR Motorsports on Road Courses: JR Motorsports has tallied 12 victories on road courses in the NXS, with the most recent coming earlier this year with Daniel Suarez and the No. 9 Chevrolet in Mexico City in June.

Derrick Rose to Serve as Grand Marshal for NASCAR Chicago Street Race’s Grant Park 165 on July 6

By
Official Release
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Chicago Bulls Legend, 2011 NBA Most Valuable Player, and Hometown Hero to Give the Famous “Drivers Start Your Engines” Command Ahead of the Third Running of the NASCAR Cup Series Race

CHICAGO (July 1, 2025) – Today, the NASCAR Chicago Street Race announced that Derrick Rose will serve as the Grand Marshal for the NASCAR Cup Series’ Grant Park 165 on Sunday, July 6 in Grant Park. The Chicago Bulls legend and 2011 NBA Most Valuable Player will give the most famous command in all of sports: “Drivers, Start Your Engines” as a part of a special pre-race celebration that shines a spotlight on the best of Chicago to a global audience.

“Chicago is one of the best sports towns in the world, and NASCAR is proud to be a part of that historic Chicago sports culture,” said Julie Giese, NASCAR Chicago Street Race President. “Derrick is one of the most beloved sports icons in the city’s history, and we look forward to having him get NASCAR’s only street race underway.”

The Chicago native became the youngest NBA MVP in history when he won the award in 2011 at age 22, leading the Bulls to the best record in the NBA that season. Rose spent the first eight years of his professional career with his hometown Bulls, becoming a three-time NBA All-Star, 2009 NBA Rookie of the Year, and capturing the hearts of Chicago basketball fans with his explosive athleticism and unwavering dedication to the city. During the 2025-26 season, the Chicago Bulls will host a ceremony to retire Rose’s jersey.

“It’s an honor to be part of such an incredible event in my hometown,” said Rose. “Chicago has always supported me throughout my career, and I’m excited to give back to the fans and be part of this amazing racing weekend in Grant Park.”

The NASCAR Chicago Street Race – which was named “Sports Event of the Year” by Sports Business Journal – previously announced new ticket options, along with reduced prices throughout the footprint, and a shorter overall build schedule. Guests will also enjoy significantly lower price points on Grounds Pass tickets and reserved seating (which now includes a new single-day option as well). Single-day Grounds Pass tickets start at $123.08, including ALL taxes and fees (35% less than last year), and Frontstretch Premier Grandstands Reserved seats are available at nearly a 50% reduction from 2024 prices.

Fans can subscribe to receive exclusive NASCAR Chicago Street Race emails for ticketing alerts. For a complete listing of ticketing options or to purchase tickets, fans can visit NASCARChicago.com or call 888-629-7223. Follow @NASCARChicago on Instagram, X and Facebook and download the NASCAR Tracks App for the latest real-time updates on all aspects of the event.

About NASCAR Chicago Street Race

The NASCAR Chicago Street Race is home to the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series street race in the history of the sport. Located in downtown Chicago, the 2025 NASCAR Cup and NASCAR Xfinity Series races will once again take competitors past and through many of the city’s most renowned downtown landmarks on Michigan Avenue, South Columbus Drive, South DuSable Lake Shore Drive and the start-finish line near Buckingham Fountain. Southern rock superstars Zac Brown Band will headline the one-of-a-kind sports and entertainment experience, which will return to Grant Park July 5-6, 2025. For more information, visit NASCARChicago.com.

About NASCAR

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

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

Grant Hangs on to Win Sizzling Featureto Open BC39 at IMS

By
Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, July 1, 2025) – Justin Grant endured constant pressure from rivals, numerous caution flags and heavy traffic to win a wild USAC NOS Energy Drink Midget National Championship feature Tuesday night that opened the BC39 Presented by Avanti Windows & Doors at The Dirt Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Grant, who started second, used nearly every inch of the racetrack to earn $5,000 for another win at IMS in the No. 87 CB Industries car owned by Chad Boat, the son of 1998 Indianapolis 500 pole sitter Billy Boat. He also won the BC39 main feature in 2023 on the 1/5th-mile dirt oval inside Turn 3 at IMS.

Gavin Miller finished second in the No. 97 Keith Kunz/Curb-Agajanian Motorsports entry, and Kyle Cummins was third in the No. 3G Glenn Styres Racing car.

“It was a lot of fun,” Grant said. “I had no idea what to do. I felt like I could make better speed up top, but you could just get pocketed so easy by guys running the slider there.

“I almost felt like I slowed down. I felt like early I was able to run pretty good pace around the top, and it felt like as the pace of the race slowed down, I had to slow down and start doing things a little differently. I felt like I was almost running easier at the end than at the beginning, but just trying to be fast in the spots where you can get past.”

The 30-lap feature looked anything but slow, especially over the frantic final 15 laps.

Grant drove under pole sitter Logan Seavey on Lap 3 and took the lead, which he held until a restart with 12 laps to go. Daison Pursley then drove his No. 86 CB Industries machine under Grant in Turns 3 and 4 for first place.

That pass started a ferocious duel between Pursley and Grant. The two drivers swapped the lead at least three times over the next five laps, using every available line on the clay oval.

With five laps to go, Pursley slid high in Turn 4 and banged wheels with Grant in the high groove while they dueled for the lead. That slight loss of momentum let Kale Drake squeeze past to take the lead in the No. 97K Keith Kunz/Curb-Agajanian Motorsports car.

But Drake drifted high in Turn 1 on the very next lap and spun, collecting Pursley and Seavey while Grant drove low to avoid the snarl and take the lead as the caution flags flew.

Grant kept the lead on the restart and appeared to be headed to a smooth drive to victory when the No. 19M Bundy Built Motorsports entry driven by Ethan Mitchell stopped in Turn 4 with one lap to go, triggering a caution period and the first of two green-white-checkered restarts.

California native Grant hung on to the lead on both restarts and was never challenged.

Levi Ballard won the inaugural Stoops Junior Sprint Invitational feature for young drivers. Ballard, who started 14th, took the lead on Lap 16 of the 20-lap feature when pole sitter and leader Owen Larson clipped a tire on the inside of the exit of Turn 2 and lost his momentum. Larson, son of reigning Brickyard 400 presented by PPG winner Kyle Larson, rallied to finish second.

Championship night of the BC39 on Wednesday, July 2 will consist of full programs for both the USAC NOS Energy Drink Midget National Championship and the Stoops Junior Sprint Invitational. Public gates open at 4 p.m., followed by a driver autograph session at 4:30 p.m. in the driver merchandise area and hot laps at 6 p.m. Racing starts immediately after the opening ceremonies at 7 p.m., culminating in a 39-lap feature event for the midgets paying $20,039 to win.

Grant and 2024 winner Cannon McIntosh will try to become the first two-time winner of the BC39, which honors late USAC champion and three-time Indianapolis 500 starter Bryan Clauson.

Tickets are on sale at ims.com/BC39. Spectators must enter IMS via Gate 10 off 30th Street to access The Dirt Track. No entrance will be allowed through Gate 2.

For more spectator information, fans should visit the Plan Ahead site for the BC39.

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