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Actor Shea Whigham Named Grand Marshald for Würth 400 Presented By LIQUI MOLY Nascar Cup Series race

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 Talented veteran actor co-stars with Tom Cruise in “MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – The Final Reckoning,” whose world premiere is May 14 at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival

  • Former Cup Series star Kasey Kahne to serve as Honorary Pace Car Driver for race on Sunday, May 4
  • Former NFL running back and University of Oklahoma star Spencer Tillman to provide pre-race invocation
  • 100-year-old Iwo Jima survivor Don Graves to sing the National Anthem

FORT WORTH, Texas (APRIL 29, 2025) – Film and television actor Shea Whigham, best known for his standout roles in acclaimed projects such as “Boardwalk Empire,” “True Detective,” “Joker” and “American Hustle,” has been named the Grand Marshal for the WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) race this Sunday, May 4, at Texas Motor Speedway (TMS).

The talented veteran actor co-stars with Tom Cruise in “MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – The Final Reckoning,” which will have a gala screening on May 14 at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

Whigham’s leading dignitary role will include him providing the famous pre-race command for the drivers to start their engines to the marquee NCS race beginning at 2:30 p.m. CT (TV: FS1, Radio: PRN, SiriusXM and Lone Star 92.5 locally).

Whigham has helped generate a box office of more than $6 billion during a brilliant career that has spanned over two decades. It began with a role in the 2000 film “Tigerland,” which he was cast alongside Colin Farrell, and continued with a lengthy list of critically acclaimed and award-winning projects.

His resume includes “All the Real Girls” (2003), “Lords of Dogtown” (2005), “Pride and Glory” (2008), ‘Elias Eli Thompson’ in HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire” (2010-2014), “Take Shelter” (2011), “The Lincoln Lawyer” (2011), “Silver Linings Playbook” (2012), “Savages” (2012), “American Hustle” (2013), “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013), ABC’s “Agent Carter” (2015), “Kong: Skull Island” (2017), FX’s “Fargo” (2017), Amazon’s “Homecoming” (2018), “First Man” (2018), HBO’s “Perry Mason” (2020-2022), Starz’s “Gaslit” (2022), Showtime’s “Waco” (2018) sequel, “Waco: The Aftermath” (2023), Neon-acquired Sundance film “Eileen” (2023), Paramount+ “Bass Reeves” (2023), Sony’s “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” (2023) and HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones” (2023).

The other primary dignitary role for the WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY will be filled by Sebastian Würth, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Würth Group. He will serve as the Honorary Starter and wave the green flag to officially start the 11th race of the season. Benjamin Würth, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Würth Group, will be a co-Honorary Race Official alongside Moses Brings Plenty, who is best known for his portrayal of “Mo” in the Paramount Network hit series, “Yellowstone.”

Former NCS star Kasey Kahne will buckle in as the Honorary Pace Car Driver and help lead the field to the green flag. Kahne was an 18-race winner in the NCS and was part of the closest NCS finish in TMS history. He was edged by Elliott Sadler by 0.028 of a second in the 2004 race. He would go on to capture his first – and only – TMS pole and win two years later in the same spring race.

Football champion running back Spencer Tillman will provide the pre-race invocation for the WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY. Tillman spent eight years in the NFL with the Houston Oilers (1987-88, ’92-94) and San Francisco 49ers (’89-91). He was also an All-American and captain of the University of Oklahoma’s 1985 national championship team. Tillman is currently a college football game analyst for FOX Sports.

Another esteemed dignitary will be National Anthem singer Don Graves, who will celebrate his 100th birthday the day prior to his appearance at the NCS race. He is a U.S. Marine veteran who is part of an exceptional group of living American heroes who took part in the successful invasion on the Japanese island of Iwo Jima during World War II. It will be Graves’ second visit to TMS to perform, having sung “God Bless America” prior to the 2023 fall NCS Playoff race.

The WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY headlines a NASCAR tripleheader at TMS. The weekend also includes the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) SpeedyCash.com 250 this Friday, May 2, at 7 p.m. and Xfinity Series (NXS) Andy’s Frozen Custard 300 this Saturday, May 3, at 1 p.m.

Below are the dignitaries for each of the weekend races.

NCS WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY

Grand Marshal: Film and television actor Shea Whigham.
Honorary Starter: Sebastian Würth, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Würth Group
Honorary Pace Car Driver: Former NASCAR Cup Series star Kasey Kahne.
National Anthem: World War II Iwo Jima survivor Don Graves.
Invocation: Former NFL running back and University of Oklahoma All-American Spencer Tillman.

NXS Andy’s Frozen Custard 300

  • Grand Marshal: Andy’s Frozen Custard CEO and owner Andy Kuntz, who will be accompanied by his wife Dana, mother Carol and children Coyler, Leigha and Tatum.
  • Honorary Starter: Andy’s Frozen Custard franchise owner Emad Lakhany.
  • Victory Lane Trophy Presenters: Andy, Dana and Carol Kuntz.
  • National Anthem: Rowdy Shea, competitor on “The Voice” Season 26 (2024).
  • Invocation: Bret Shisler of Texas Alliance Raceway Ministries.

NCTS SpeedyCash.com 250

  • Grand Marshals: Speedy Cash Regional Vice President Ryan Roscoe, Regional Vice President Bruce Cantrell, District Director Alejandro McClain and District Director Ulysses Perez.
  • Honorary Starter: CCF Family of Brands Senior Vice President of Operations Tim Pearson.
  • Victory Lane Trophy Presenters: CCF Family of Brands President Bill Baker and Executive Vice President Retail Operations Larry Reisinger.
  • National Anthem: Musical artist Allyse McFall.
  • Invocation: Bret Shisler of Texas Alliance Raceway Ministries.

Event tickets and camping for the 2025 WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY NASCAR tripleheader weekend are on sale now. Save up to 33 percent versus purchasing individual tickets, take advantage of interest-free monthly payments, get the best seat selection and more. Click HERE for more information and to buy tickets.

Texas Motor Speedway’s current 2025 events calendar includes the Kubota High Limit Racing (May 1 and 3 at the TMS Dirt Track), WÜRTH 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY NASCAR tripleheader weekend (May 2-4), C10 Nationals (May 9-10), Holley LS Fest Texas (May 16-17), Bandas y Trocas (May 24), Solar Car Challenge (July 17-23), Goodguys Summit Racing Lone Star Nationals (Sept. 26-28), Texas World Dirt Track Championship (Oct. 3-4 at the TMS Dirt Track), October Truck Madness (Oct. 11), Kubota High Limit Racing All-In Championship (Oct. 17-18 at the TMS Dirt Track), FuelFest (Oct. 25), POWRi Sprint Cars (Nov. 7-8 at the TMS Dirt Track) and Xtreme Xperience (Dec. 11-14).

ABOUT TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Texas Motor Speedway is among the largest sports and entertainment venues in the United States. The speedway has an array of amenities such as Big Hoss, the largest single LED screen of any sports facility in North America, making it one of the premier venues in the world of sports. The 1.5-mile superspeedway located in Fort Worth hosts all three NASCAR national series among its various races and specialty events throughout the year. Texas Motor Speedway is owned and operated by Speedway Motorsports, LLC, a leading marketer and promoter of motorsports entertainment in the United States. For more information, please visit texasmotorspeedway.com.

MORE INFO:

Keep track of Texas Motor Speedway’s busy schedule by following on Facebook, X and Instagram. Keep up with all the latest news and information on the Speedway website and TMS mobile app.

Katz Coffee to Sponsor Haley, Spire Motorsports at Texas Motor Speedway

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Official Release
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Team’s Official Coffee to be Showcased as Primary Partner Aboard No. 7 Chevy

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (April 29, 2025) – Katz Coffee, Spire Motorsports’ Official Coffee Provider, will serve as the primary sponsor aboard Justin Haley’s No. 7 Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY at Texas Motor Speedway.

Founded in Texas and headquartered in Houston, Katz Coffee has been aiming for perfection in every cup since 2003. The company specializes in small-batch, custom roasting with a focus on sourcing the finest coffee beans from farmers around the world. The Lone Star State’s largest specialty coffee roaster has served some of Houston’s highly-acclaimed chefs, restaurant and coffeehouse owners for more than 20 years.

“I’m excited for Katz Coffee to ride along with me at Texas Motor Speedway,” said Haley. “I’ve had a lot of great runs at Texas, so hopefully we can mix it up at the front of the field and compete for the win. Katz does a great job of fueling the men and women at Spire Motorsports with rich, great tasting coffee both at the shop and at the track every weekend. I’m not going out on a limb when I say Spire Motorsports and Katz Coffee have the best coffee game in the sport.”

Haley scored a series/venue best third-place finish in November 2022 and is well accustomed to the “Great American Speedway” across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series. He finished 13th last fall in the Cup Series most recent visit to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

The Winamac, Ind., native earned five top-10 finishes across six NASCAR Xfinity Series starts and notched a November 2018 win in CRAFTSMAN Truck Series competition that propelled him into the series’ Championship 4 race two weeks later at Homestead-Miami Speedway. On top of the win, Haley boasts top-10 results in all five of his NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at the ultra-fast 1.5-mile Fort Worth tri-oval.

Over the course of his career, the newly minted 26-year-old, who celebrated his birthday Tuesday, has collected four NASCAR Xfinity Series checkered flags and three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series wins, making him one of just 41 drivers in history to have earned wins across all three of NASCAR’s National Touring Series. 

He is a veteran of 154 Cup Series starts where he’s logged one win, five top fives, 17 top 10s and led 103 laps.

“We’re proud to celebrate another big moment in our partnership with Spire Motorsports by sponsoring Justin Haley’s car during his birthday week,” said Katz Coffee Owner Avi Katz. “It’s an exciting milestone for Katz Coffee, and we’re thrilled to fuel the drive for success both on and off the track. Here’s to a weekend powered by Liquid Love and full of momentum, fueled by Katz!”

The Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLI will be televised live on FS1, Sunday, May 4 beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 11th of 36 points-paying races on the 2025 NCS schedule will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

About Katz Coffee …
Katz Coffee has been roasting Liquid Love since 2003, proudly fueling some of the Nation’s most celebrated chefs, coffee shops, and restaurants. As Texas’ largest specialty coffee roaster, we source beans from the finest farms around the globe and roast them fresh daily in small batches to ensure every brew is perfect. Every cup is crafted to deliver bold flavor, a smooth finish, and the energy to power everything from daily routines to a day at the track. Born in the Lone Star State, our reach now stretches from coast to coast, and our coffee is enjoyed in communities from Seattle to Key West. Giving back to our community is as important as what’s in your coffee cup, through long-standing support of the PTSD Foundation of America and other local nonprofits, we’re proud to stand for something bigger. We roast with purpose, serve with passion, and always strive to Grow Together.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on March 21, 2025, when Kyle Larson took the checkered flag in the Baptist Health 200 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team also fields the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and the No. 77 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series in select events.

Niece Motorsports Partners with Three Charitable Organizations Working with Veterans

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Official Release
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(Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images)

Team Unveils New Patriotic Logo along with Charitable Efforts

Salisbury, NC (April 29, 2025) – Veteran owned NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) team, Niece Motorsports, has partnered with three charitable organizations to honor members of the United States military.

Owned by United States Marine Corps veteran, Al Niece, the Niece Motorsports organization has always placed those who serve the country at the core of the team’s identity. Niece served in Vietnam with the 3rd Marine Division, Lima Co. 3rd Marine Regiment. During his time in the Marine Corps, Niece earned the rank of Sergeant.

Beginning this weekend and throughout the month of May, the following organizations will be represented by the team:

Foundation for Pops

Foundation for Pops – https://foundationforpops.org/

Foundation for Pops, started by Josh Morris, CEO of DQS Solutions & Staffing, was founded in honor of his grandfather, a Vietnam veteran, and was created in response to the hardships he faced after returning to civilian life.
The nonprofit will serve as Kaden Honeycutt’s primary partner for the Memorial Day weekend event at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Foundation for Pops aims to empower veterans and people experiencing homelessness through education, resource development, assistance, and supportive services, helping them achieve economic mobility and secure quality, affordable housing.

Through a five-step process, Revive in Five, the nonprofit provides resources to those in need, including: needs assessment, tailoring an action plan, personal development, job placement, and financial capability & housing.

PGA HOPE

PGA HOPE – https://www.pgareach.org/pgahope

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the flagship military program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.

Led by PGA of America Golf Professionals, the program is inclusive of a developmental 6-8 week curriculum. All programs are provided at no cost to all participating Veterans.

Niece Motorsports primary partners, J.F. Electric and Utilitra, are actively involved with PGA HOPE, having made several contributions to the fund.

The Foundation will be represented on Matt Mills’ No. 42 Chevrolet at Texas Motor Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America – https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/

A national tradition since 1992, Wreaths Across America is an initiative that has touched the lives of many. The nonprofit organization honors and remembers fallen U.S. Military members by placing decorated wreaths on national cemetery gravesites throughout the country.

Al Niece has supported Wreaths Across America for several years now, having donated wreaths at various locations. Last December, Niece Motorsports drivers and employees participated in Wreaths Across America Day at the Historic Salisbury National Cemetery near the team’s headquarters.

Realizing that there were not enough wreaths available to place on every veteran’s headstone, the team made it a mission to raise money for this year’s event. All three entries will have the logo placed on their B-posts throughout the remainder of the season.

As part of the partnership, fans, media members, and industry colleagues are able to donate to the cause on behalf of the team by sponsoring wreaths through a dedicated page on the organization’s website. Fans who sponsor a wreath through the link will receive promo codes to the Niece Motorsports online store.

Throughout the month of May coinciding with the NASCAR Salutes campaign, the team will change its logo to a patriotic version with stars and stripes incorporated into the brand marks.

In the coming weeks, Niece Motorsports plans to unveil special patriotic paint schemes for its entries throughout the month. Stay tuned to the team’s social media channels.

Follow Niece Motorsports on Facebook, X, and Instagram and visit niecemotorsports.com for all the latest news.

About Foundation for Pops: At Foundation for Pops, our vision is to cultivate a society where the transformative power of education, empowerment, and inclusive support dismantles barriers to economic mobility and stable housing. Guided by our core values of Positive Mindset, Empowerment, Respect, Innovation, and Community Collaboration, we aspire to be a beacon of hope for people experiencing homelessness and veterans, fostering a community where everyone can rebuild their lives with dignity and contribute meaningfully to the world.

About PGA HOPE: PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the flagship military program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. For more information, visit PGAREACH.org, follow @PGAHOPE on Instagram, X and find us on Facebook.

About Wreaths Across America: Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s yearlong mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington and at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2025, the team celebrates its 10th consecutive season competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) where it fields the Nos. 41, 42, 44 and 45. Since its founding in 2016, Niece Motorsports has garnered nine wins, 50+ top-fives, 100+ top-10s, 190+ top-15 finishes and made five playoff appearances. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a trusted build shop for the Chevrolet Silverados of multiple NCTS teams as well as a customizable fabrication shop for any manufacturing needs.

Follow the Team: To keep up to date with the latest team news, visit niecemotorsports.com or connect on Facebook and Instagram (@NieceMotorsports) as well as X (@NieceMotorsport).

North Wilkesboro Honors Dale Earnhardt’s Legacy On His 74th Birthday, While Looking Ahead To NASCAR All-Star Race Week

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Official Release
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Dale Earnhardt celebrates in North Wilkesboro Speedway’s Victory Lane after dominating the 1987 First Union 400, leading 319 of 400 laps in a classic performance. (Courtesy: Save the Speedway Archives)
  • On what would have been Dale Earnhardt’s 74th birthday, North Wilkesboro Speedway honors his legacy as a five-time winner ahead of an action-packed All-Star Race Week, May 15-18
  • NASCAR All-Star Race Week packages, single-day tickets and camping to all NASCAR All-Star Race Week events are on sale at northwilkesborospeedway.com

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (April 29, 2025) – Today, on what would have been Dale Earnhardt’s 74th birthday, North Wilkesboro Speedway is reminded of the legendary driver’s enduring connection to the track. Long before its modern-day revival, Earnhardt’s five victories at this iconic short track cemented his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. With anticipation building for the upcoming NASCAR All-Star Race week, May 15-18, fans can relive Earnhardt’s unforgettable moments at North Wilkesboro and experience the same thrilling atmosphere that once served as the backdrop for some of his most iconic wins.

Here are three of his most iconic North Wilkesboro triumphs:

Class of the Field – April 1987
At the height of his 1987 domination, Earnhardt was untouchable. Few moments showcased this more than the 1987 First Union 400 at North Wilkesboro. He led a jaw-dropping 319 of 400 laps, holding off third-generation rival Kyle Petty by 1.72 seconds. It was vintage Earnhardt — relentless, efficient, and cool under pressure. The impressive victory helped catapult him toward his third NASCAR Cup Series championship later that same season.

Snapping Handsome Harry’s Streak – September 1991
With Harry Gant chasing a modern-era record for a fifth straight Cup win, Earnhardt was the only driver who could stop the streak — and he did so in dramatic fashion. Brake issues plagued Gant late in the race, and Earnhardt pounced with just nine laps to go. He led only those final nine laps, but they were the most important of the day. The win was gritty, clutch, and championship-caliber — and, sure enough, Earnhardt went on to capture the 1991 Cup title.

“The Man in Black” vs. “Wonder Boy” – April 1995
North Wilkesboro bore witness to one of the earliest duels between Earnhardt and a young Jeff Gordon. While Gordon was rising fast, it was still Earnhardt’s turf in the spring of 1995. The seven-time Cup Series champion led 227 laps and crossed the line a staggering 13.48 seconds ahead of Gordon’s colorful No. 24. Fans saw a legend holding off the future — a symbolic passing of the torch that wouldn’t come easy.

Earnhardt won five times at North Wilkesboro Speedway, but these three triumphs stand out as timeless reminders of his grit, skill and ability to own the moment.

North Wilkesboro Speedway is more than just a racetrack; it’s a living testament to NASCAR’s rich history. For generations of fans, this short track has been the stage for some of the sport’s most legendary moments, especially those involving The Intimidator himself. As the NASCAR All-Star Race approaches, there’s no better time to pay homage to the past and honor Earnhardt’s legacy, whose grit and determination still echo through the foothills of North Carolina. The spirit of those historic races, where heroes were made and legends were born, lives on at North Wilkesboro Speedway — where the thrill of NASCAR’s past meets the excitement of its future.

The 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race will feature more on-track action than ever before. In addition to all the NASCAR Cup Series activity, fans can enjoy zMAX CARS Tour feature races both Thursday (The Reverend Whiskey 75) and Friday (Late Model Stock Cars) nights, along with the Window World 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race and a Jake Owen concert presented by Raymer Oil on the frontstretch Saturday. Sunday’s racing action begins with the FaithFest 150 NASCAR Whelen Modified Series race preceding the All-Star Open and All-Star Race.

May 15-18 NASCAR All-Star Race Week ticket packages — including eight races, the Pit Crew Challenge, Jake Owen concert and all NASCAR qualifying sessions — start at just $130. Race week packages or individual event day tickets and camping can be purchased online at www.northwilkesborospeedway.com.

Fans can connect with North Wilkesboro Speedway and get the latest news regarding NASCAR All-Star Week and North Wilkesboro Speedway by following on X and Instagram or by becoming a Facebook fan.

Front Row Motorsports: Talladega Superspeedway Race Report – Noah Gragson, Todd Gilliland, Zane Smith

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Official Release
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Noah Gragson | Todd Gilliland | Zane Smith
Talladega Superspeedway Race Report

Jack Link’s 500
Date: April 27, 2025
Event: Race 11 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Talladega Superspeedway (2.66-miles)
Length of Race: Three hours, 10 minutes, 52 seconds

FRM Finish:

● Noah Gragson (Started 27th, Finished 4th / Running, completed 188 of 188 laps)
● Todd Gilliland (Started 15th, Finished 16th / Running, completed 188 of 188 laps)
● Zane Smith (Started 1st, Finished 19th / Running, completed 188 of 188 laps)

FRM Points Standings:

  • Zane Smith (23rd)
  • Todd Gilliland (28th)
  • Noah Gragson (31st)

Noah Gragson Key Takeaways

Stage One: 22nd / Stage Two: 14th / Race Result: 4th

Noah Gragson qualified 27th for the NASCAR Cup Series race at the Talladega Superspeedway. Gragson finished 22nd and 14th in Stages One & Two, respectfully, taking trips to pit road to fix the handling of his Ford Mustang Dark Horse. With adjustments made by Crew Chief Drew Blickensderfer and the No. 4 team, Gragson put himself in contention for the win in the final stage, ultimately finishing fourth, his first top-five of the season.

“It was a really smooth day for a change, and it feels great to finally show the results we knew we were capable of with a top-5 finish,” said Gragson. “Early on, we had some handling issues and lacked track position, but the team made a great adjustment on the first stop that really helped the car. We stuck to our plan of saving fuel by running the bottom and picking off spots when others got impatient, and it set us up perfectly for that last pit stop. Our stop was shorter than most, which got us the track position we needed. We were just a couple spots short of truly contending for the win, but overall, we did everything right and it was a strong day for our team.”

Todd Gilliland Key Takeaways

Stage One: 20th / Stage Two: 8th / Race Result: 16th

Todd Gilliland qualified 15th for Sunday’s 188-lap event at the Talladega Superspeedway. Gilliland fought with the handling of his Ford Mustang Dark throughout the first stage, but was able to run within the top-10 with Front Row Motorsports teammate, Zane Smith. Gilliland finished Stage One in 20th. Back within the top-10 in Stage Two, Gilliland finished the stage in 8th, earning stage points. In the final stage, Gilliland continued to show speed and worked with fellow Ford teammates to cross the start / finish line in 16th.

“We wanted a little more from a results standpoint, but I’m still happy to have left Talladega with a top-20 finish,” said Gilliland. “We left the track with some stage points too, so it’s encouraging to see the speed this No. 34 team is bringing to the track. On to Texas.”

Zane Smith Key Takeaways

Stage One: 18th / Stage Two: 9th / Race Result: 19th

Zane Smith made his fourth Talladega Superspeedway NASCAR Cup Series start this past Sunday. In Saturday’s qualifying session, Smith earned his first career NASCAR Cup Series pole award with a top speed of 182.174 MPH for a 52.565 lap time. Fuel strategy was the topic of discussion in the 188-lap race. Smith showed the speed of his Ford Mustang Dark Horse in Stage One, leading five laps throughout the stage before falling back to the top-20 to save fuel, finishing the stage in 18th. In Stage Two, Smith made his way back into the top-10, finishing the stage in ninth, earning two valuable stage points. In the final stage, Smith ran within the top-10, moving up a lane on the final lap in hopes of making a run for a top-five finish, but with no help, fell back within the top-20 and crossed the start / finish line in 19th.

“Frustrating finish to a really good weekend,” said Smith. “Winning a Pole award was super cool, and that translated into the race where we were able to put ourselves in a really good spot for the finish. We just didn’t have anyone commit to our bumper that last lap and it cost us a ton of spots, but I’m proud of this TitleMax Ford team and excited to keep bringing fast cars to the track.”

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.

The Types of Accidents with Scarily High Chances of a Brain Injury

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Brain injuries are one of the most serious consequences of accidents, often leaving lasting effects on a person’s life. In fact, over 2.8 million Americans suffer from brain injuries every year, with many of them resulting from common accidents. Recognizing which types of accidents can lead to brain injuries is crucial, as it helps you take the right precautions and seek the necessary help. 

In this article, we’ll look at some of the accidents that have scarily high chances of causing a brain injury.

Going further:

Car Accidents

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). In a crash, the force of the impact can cause the brain to move violently inside the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, or other types of damage. Head-on collisions and rollovers are especially dangerous, as they increase the chance of the head striking the dashboard, window, or steering wheel. 

Wearing a seatbelt and using airbags are essential safety measures that can greatly reduce the risk of a brain injury in a car accident. If you’ve suffered a brain injury from a car accident, consulting a skilled brain injury lawyer at The Law Offices of Mickey Fine may help you understand your legal rights and pursue compensation.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are another major risk for brain injuries. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable because they lack the protective frame of a car, making them more likely to be thrown off the bike and hit their head on the ground or another object. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to suffer fatal crashes than people in cars. While helmets can reduce the risk of brain injuries, many motorcycle accidents involve severe head trauma. Wearing a helmet, especially a properly fitted one, is crucial for any rider, as it can absorb the impact and reduce the severity of brain injuries.

Sports Accidents

Sports-related injuries are a common cause of brain damage, especially in contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey. Concussions, a type of mild brain injury, are common in these sports. Repeated concussions can lead to long-term brain damage, a condition known as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

Studies show that athletes who have experienced multiple concussions are at a much higher risk for CTE, which can lead to memory loss, mood changes, and motor skills problems. While helmets and other protective gear can help, there is no substitute for proper training and following safety guidelines. Recognizing the dangers of repeated head trauma is vital to preventing brain injuries in sports.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are responsible for many brain injuries, especially in older adults. A simple fall can result in a head injury if a person strikes their head on the floor or a hard object. The CDC reports that falls are the leading cause of brain injury in older people. 

To reduce the risk, it’s important to ensure that homes and workplaces are free from obstacles that could lead to a fall. Using grab bars in bathrooms, removing loose rugs, and wearing non-slip shoes can go a long way in preventing accidents that could cause brain injury.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

Bicyclists and pedestrians are also at high risk for brain injuries in accidents involving vehicles. A collision with a car or truck can throw a cyclist or pedestrian to the ground, often leading to head injuries. 

Cyclists should always wear helmets, even for short trips, as helmets can prevent or reduce the severity of brain injuries. Pedestrians can also protect themselves by staying aware of their surroundings and following traffic signals. In both cases, the risk of brain injury increases when drivers are distracted or not paying attention to their surroundings.

Workplace Accidents

Certain work environments, such as construction sites, expose workers to a higher risk of brain injuries. Falling objects, machinery malfunctions, and accidents involving heavy equipment can all cause serious head trauma. 

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction is one of the most dangerous industries. Falls and being struck by objects are major causes of injury. Workers must wear protective gear like hard hats and follow safety protocols to reduce the chances of a brain injury.

Domestic Accidents

Accidents at home can also lead to brain injuries, especially among children and older adults. Falling off a ladder, slipping on a wet floor, or tripping over a household item can all result in a serious head injury. 

Simple home safety measures like securing rugs, installing stair railings, and keeping walkways clear can help prevent these kinds of accidents.

Assaults and Violence

Unfortunately, brain injuries can also result from violent crimes, such as assaults or domestic violence. A blow to the head during a fight or attack can cause serious brain trauma. Victims of violent crime may suffer from concussions or more severe injuries like skull fractures. The effects of such injuries can be long-lasting, affecting cognitive function and emotional well-being.

The Wrap-Up!

Understanding the types of accidents that are most likely to cause brain injuries can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. Whether you’re on the road, playing sports, or simply going about your daily routine, staying aware of the risks can make a significant difference in preventing these life-changing injuries.

What Makes a PPF Brand the Best? Key Features You Should Look For

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Official Release
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Why You Should Protect Your Car’s Paint? One of the reasons why the best PPF film brand can be said to provide reliable protection is that they are expected to stand up to whatever problems the road dishes out. 

Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a transparent film that can be applied to the exterior of a car to protect it. In this article, we will discuss some of the essential features to consider when selecting high-quality PPF film brands for paint protection, which is crucial for choosing the right quality paint protection for your car.

Robustness and Resilience for Long-Term Protection

These are the most durable PPF film brands for cars; however, as always, feel free to check out initial reviews before committing. A high-quality PPF brand utilizes premium materials, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which is long-lasting and flexible, with no yellowing, cracking, or peeling over time, providing years of protection. 

Self-Healing Properties for a Flawless Finish

The best PPF brand films also come with self-healing properties, which enable light scratches and swirls to disappear under heat (be it sunlight or warm water).

It keeps the film looking smooth and precise, and doesn’t need repair. The best brands feature superior self-healing technology, restoring the film to its factory freshness. 

The best PPF brands for self-healing properties have a proven, documented right self-healing capability, making them an excellent choice to keep the flawless appearance of your vehicle’s exterior even after daily use.

Clarity and Aesthetic Appeal

Some of the top PPF film brands for vehicle exterior protection solutions, offering zero optical distortion for an invisible fit and finish. Most PPFs are virtually invisible after being applied, allowing the paint color and finish to show through. 

The best brands avoid hazy or glossy finishes that can change the car’s appearance. Brands also offer options for matte or satin finishes, which provide a unique aesthetic while offering protection. 

Pick a PPF that will integrate with your car’s exterior and reinforce its beauty without distracting your car’s aesthetic value.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

A good PPF film is easy to install and maintain, which is advantageous for both professionals and car owners. The highest-quality PPF brands also manufacture their films to stretch and conform to a vehicle’s curves, reducing the likelihood of bubbling or peeling. 

They also utilize premium adhesives that ensure a firm, paint-safe attachment that will not damage the finish when removed. Sealed prints require less maintenance, so consider using waterproof and dirt-resistant films that clear easily. 

A user-friendly, low-maintenance PPF saves you time and can be relied on for consistent paint protection.

Brand Reputation and Support

The Best PPF Film Brand with Good Market Credibility and Warranty. Discover which brands are highly regarded by car owners and professional installers, and read their reviews. Most familiar brands have installer education programs that ensure the correct application.

Additionally, their products come with generous warranties, and they offer excellent customer service for any issues. Opting for a quality brand will always ensure you buy a worthwhile product with professional expertise and help.

Conclusion

Be prepared to drive a protected and gorgeous car. With these major elements as your priority, you can select from the most durable PPF film­ brands available for cars, as well as the best PPF film brands for external vehicle cover that protect your investment for years.

Christopher Bell’s Texas Two-Step

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Official Release
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Interstate Batteries Driver Doubling Up in Lone Star State with a 410 Winged Sprint Car Thursday-Friday and a NASCAR Cup Series Stock Car Saturday-Sunday

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (April 28, 2025) – In a racing career that began when he was six, Christopher Bell has become one of the most versatile and winning drivers in North America, with the 30-year-old tallying victories across USAC, the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series, ARCA and each of NASCAR’s top-three divisions – Cup, Xfinity and Truck.

This weekend in Texas, Bell’s versatility will be on full display. On Thursday night at The Dirt Track at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Bell will make his Kubota High Limit Racing debut when he climbs behind the wheel of the famed No. 69k 410 winged sprint car for team owner and National Sprint Car Hall of Famer Don Kreitz, Jr. Bell will drive the car again on Friday night at Rocket Raceway Park in Petty, Texas, in the POWRi Elite Outlaw 410 Sprint Car Series. After that, Bell will make the 114-mile trek back to Texas Motor Speedway so he can return to his day job – driving the No. 20 Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry XSE for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series.

It’s the kind of schedule that makes other racers green with envy, not only because Bell will compete at the highest level in two very different racing disciplines, but because he will do it in the vibrant green colors of longtime motorsports supporter Interstate Batteries. The leading replacement battery brand in the United States will be the primary partner on Bell’s sprint car and on his No. 20 Toyota in the Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY at the 1.5-mile Texas oval.

“Racers race, and the more you race, the better you are,” said Bell, who believes that being in race shape brings a heightened level of physical fitness to his craft. “You can go lift weights and run as much as you want, but being in that racing environment and focusing on the task at hand, it’s different – a lot different – and there’s no way you can prepare for it other than doing it.”

Bell has been doing it for a while, and he’s got the hardware to prove it. Twenty-nine USAC wins and the 2013 USAC National Midget championship. Six World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series wins. Three ARCA wins. Seven NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series wins and the 2017 title. Nineteen NASCAR Xfinity Series wins. Twelve NASCAR Cup Series wins, including a run of three straight earlier this year that has made Bell the winningest Cup Series driver so far this season.

Yet Bell remains hungry, and in addition to collecting trophies from the two dirt tracks he will visit this week, Bell wants the Würth 400 trophy on Sunday. A native of Norman, Oklahoma, Bell considers Texas his home track, a feeling he shares with Dallas-based Interstate Batteries.

“This is a big deal,” Bell said. “It’s a big race weekend for myself, my family and for Interstate Batteries. I would love nothing more than to get that first Texas Cup Series victory.”

The Würth 400 will be Bell’s seventh career Cup Series start at Texas. His six prior starts have yielded feast-or-famine results with three finishes of fourth or better coupled with three other results outside the top-15.

“Texas, that one’s a tough cookie, man. It’s just a very difficult track because of the way it’s shaped and the characteristics of it,” Bell said. “In turns three and four, there’s this one big bump, and it’s always been my Achilles’ heel. But over in turns one and two, you need your car to be really low to the ground. It’s a slower corner and there’s not as much load on the car.

“Texas is a place of compromising. You need to make sure you get your car to load in (turns) one and two so it carries speed all the way through the corner. But then when you get to (turns) three and four, it’s a lot faster, and you’ve got to be able to manage that big bump.”

Bell has found that perfect compromise twice before at Texas. He won an Xfinity Series race at the track in November 2019 by leading four times for a race-high 101 laps, and a Craftsman Truck Series race in June 2017 by leading twice for a race-high 92 laps. His sprint car background helped him each time.

“You’re very rarely going to have a perfect car,” Bell said. “It’s the guys who can adapt to that the best and figure out how, if your car’s loose or if it’s tight, to run different lines and manipulate your car to do certain things. That’s all stuff that dirt track racing teaches you really well.”

Rooted in the practical element of sprint car racing is passion.

“Sprint car racing is just so real and raw and true. You can’t fake it,” Bell said. “You’ve got to qualify well and you’ve got to race well. There are no pit stops. It’s just the driver and the car once it’s on the track. You still have a team. You have a crew chief and mechanics who work on the car, but it’s all really in your hands, and you can’t fake your way around a sprint car, that’s for sure.”

Bell can, however, be strategic when it comes to racing sprint cars. As fun as dirt tracks are for the sixth-year Cup Series driver, competing at stock car racing’s highest level in his No. 20 Interstate Batteries Toyota remains the priority. Bell is not running the second night of the Kubota High Limit Racing event on Saturday at The Dirt Track. Instead, Daryn Pittman, the 2013 World of Outlaws champion, will drive the No. 69k Interstate Batteries machine.

“I think it’s smart to run the sprint car Thursday and Friday, and then we’ll have Cup practice and qualifying on Saturday and we’ll be strictly focused on that,” Bell said. “I don’t want to interrupt my feel, my rhythm, when I get in the Cup car, and I want to make the most out of Sunday.”

Sunday is the culmination of Bell’s ultimate weekend of racing in the Lone Star State.

“I love sprint car racing, I love dirt track racing, and Texas is a very important race for me because I’ll have all my family members there,” Bell said. “They’re excited about getting to see me do a little bit more racing. It should be a big crowd, lots of people. I’m just thankful that I have this opportunity and extremely glad to carry the Interstate Batteries colors all weekend long.”

Bell’s Texas adventure begins Thursday with the Kubota High Limit Sprint Car Stampede at The Dirt Track at Texas Motor Speedway. FloRacing will livestream all the action, beginning with hot laps at 6:15 p.m. CDT. Friday night’s POWRi Elite Outlaw 410 Sprint Car Series event from Rocket Raceway Park goes live with hot laps at 7 p.m. CDT with RaceON providing livestream coverage. NASCAR Cup Series practice begins at 10 a.m. CDT on Saturday with Cup Series qualifying following at 11:10 a.m. Both will be streamed on Prime. Sunday’s Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY goes green at 2:30 p.m. CDT with live coverage on FS1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Joe Gibbs Racing:

Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) is one of the premier organizations in NASCAR with four NASCAR Cup Series teams, four NASCAR Xfinity Series teams, and a driver development program. JGR is based in Huntersville, North Carolina, and owned by 2020 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Joe Gibbs, who also earned his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was named as one of the NFL’s top-10 coaches of all-time with a winning career that included three Super Bowl championships as head coach of the Washington franchise. JGR has competed in NASCAR since 1992, capturing 400 wins over that span. No team has more combined wins across the sport’s three national series in the history of NASCAR. In addition, JGR has won five Cup Series championships along with four Xfinity Series driver championships and six Xfinity Series owners’ championships. The organization also has captured four Daytona 500 titles, considered to be NASCAR’s premier event.

About Interstate Batteries:

For more than 70 years, Interstate Batteries® has powered people down roads, trails and waterways and businesses to succeed. Best known for its starting, lighting and ignition (SLI) batteries, this product has been under car hoods since 1952, each one backed by the company’s service, quality and value. Interstate All Battery Center® provides portable power in both retail and commercial markets. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Interstate Batteries is an industry leader in recycling efforts, as well as a global leader in safe lead handling practices. Guided by a set of common values, the company’s purpose is to glorify God and enrich lives while delivering the most trustworthy source of power to the world. For more information, visit www.InterstateBatteries.com.

Mercedes-AMG GT3 Teams Regulator Racing and JMF Motorsports Sweep Sunday Victories in GT World Challenge America Powered by AWS Race at Circuit of The Americas

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Official Release
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AUSTIN, Texas – Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing teams Regulator Racing, JMF Motorsports and CRP Racing combined to sweep the Pro and Pro-Am class race wins and secure three of the overall top four finishing positions in Sunday’s GT World Challenge America powered by AWS feature race at Circuit of The Americas (COTA). Jeff Burton and Philip Ellis scored the overall and Pro-Am class win in the No. 91 Regulator Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 while Mikael Grenier and Michai Stephens took Pro-class honors and an overall second-place finish in the No. 34 JMF Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3.

Sunday’s victories were the second of the season for both Regulator and JMF after each scored a GT World Challenge America race win in last month’s season-opening race weekend at Sonoma Raceway.

The double winners were joined on the podium at COTA by the first-year driver pairing of Isaac Sherman and Jason Daskalos, who co-drove the No. 27 CRP Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 to second in Pro-Am and fourth place overall.

All three podium teams overcame a mix of on-track incidents and in-race procedural penalties during the weekend to achieve Sunday’s outstanding results. The overall race-winning No. 91 team handled a pair of penalties in each of the weekend’s 90-minute races and – for the second-straight race – benefitted from a yellow-flag safety car period.

After he and starting driver Burton drove from the back of the field, Ellis was fourth overall when the race was restarted or the final time with 29 minutes to go. He passed Daskalos for the Pro-Am lead and third overall in the uphill run into Turn 1 as the green flag flew and two laps later moved to second.

Meanwhile, the No. 34 was upfront and leading the Pro class and overall late in the race for the second straight day, with Stephens at the wheel on Sunday.

With both the No. 34 and No. 91 Mercedes-AMG GT3s running comfortably one-two overall and leading their respective classes, the drivers raced competitively but with care as Ellis pulled off the overall winning pass with 15 minutes remaining. The No. 91 took the checkered flag 1.948 seconds ahead of the No. 34 as both Mercedes-AMG GT3 teams celebrated their second in-class race wins of the season.

The JMF No. 34 came close to pulling off a pair of race wins on the weekend, and Grenier actually took the checkered flag first overall and in Pro in Saturday’s opening race. Unfortunately, the No. 34 was assessed a less than two-second penalty for just missing the minimum pit stop time and the Pro-class competitor taking the checkered just behind the No. 34 was close enough to be awarded the victory.

First and second place finishes for JMF, however, were solid results considering the team missed Friday’s second practice session and worked late into the evening repairing the front end on the No. 34 after a non-contact issue emerged during opening practice on the notoriously tough COTA race circuit.

The No. 27 required some repairs as well after getting caught up in a multi-car accident at the start of Saturday’s first race. The team finished the race, but the diligent CRP Racing team gave the car a proper repair job before Sunday that certainly played a role in the second-place Pro-Am finish.

In Saturday’s Pirelli GT4 America three-hour Lone Star Enduro, Texas-based Lone Star Racing battled for the Am-class lead for the majority of the race and crossed the finish line in fourth place.

On pace and frequently in the top three, team co-drivers Marc Austin and Jason Golan were in the hunt for the victory if not a podium showing only to lose valuable track position during a late caution period when competitors in front of the No. 22 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4 didn’t circulate fast enough to catch the front of the field during a “wave around.”

Austin was in fourth for the restart but had a line of other competitors in front of him and the Am top three and was more than 20 seconds removed from the class podium fight after the pedestrian wave around.

Next up for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing teams on the SRO America schedule is another full weekend of SRO America competition at Sebring International Raceway, May 16 – 18.

Jeff Burton, Driver – No. 91 Regulator Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “It’s all about seat time in the Mercedes-AMG GT3 for me. We’re spending a lot of time in the seat, that’s what’s happening, and every time I get a little time behind the wheel, I can actually find that I’m doing things a little bit better. A little bit better and a little bit easier. Of course, Philip is just amazing to watch and have him as my teacher. It’s really good, and COTA is on my top-five list of tracks. It’s really tough on cars, and that was one thing our recent test here was really good for, because we could figure out how hard the track is on the car. I mean, it’s bumpy as can be, there are curbs all over, and every turn has something that if you hit it you are going to ruin the car. It teaches you to be quick but careful.”

Philip Ellis, Driver – No. 91 Regulator Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “It is great to now have two wins this early in the season, but to be honest, Sunday was more luck than anything. Obviously, it is working out with our driver strategy, but the team reacted quickly after we had a miscue in the race. The safety car coming out was very lucky for us, and we had a late safety car at Sonoma that helped too, but either way, I think Jeff had another great race. Probably another one of his best weekends to date as we have seen him do this year. He was very consistent today and kept the car in position for a podium or even a win under green conditions. Another good result, and now we just have to repeat it.”

Mikael Grenier, Driver – No. 34 JMF Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “Wins are very important, and that is what is needed. This championship is not going to be easy. There are only four cars running in the Pro class, and the other teams are also very good. It’s difficult to score strong points and just rely on consistency, so we will try to win as many races as possible. That’s where we get the biggest gap for points, because between second, third and fourth that is a big margin. We have to keep scoring points and that will get us to the end of the season.”

Michai Stephens, Driver – No. 34 JMF Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “I am just exceptionally grateful for this incredible opportunity. It’s all a testament and a credit to the JMF Motorsports team. It’s wonderful that this weekend each element of this organization had an opportunity to shine and show their incredible commitment and ability. Mikael and I are the very fortunate ones that get to drive this Mercedes-AMG GT3 around and stand on top of the box on the podium, but we wouldn’t be there at all if it wasn’t for the men and women that stand behind us. This victory is certainly for them.”

Isaac Sherman, Driver – No. 27 CRP Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “You just need to have a never give up mentality. You never know what’s going to happen on the race track, so I just stay focused and give it my all. I am just super excited and happy that we came out with the result we did. This is my first year in a GT3 car and just my second race weekend. My first time ever in a GT3 car was two weeks before the season-opening Sonoma race, so I was a little nervous and had no idea where I was going to be. When we tested, I started getting comfortable, clicking some faster laps, and I was like ‘okay, we might do pretty well,’ and then I just needed to get comfortable with the team and the car. I think by the end of this year we’re going to be really, really competitive.”

Jason Daskalos, Driver – No. 27 CRP Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “For a new team stepping up to GT World Challenge, we are learning a lot. Honestly, I felt even on Saturday we were performing at a podium level, but unfortunately, we got hit at the start. It was nice to get that podium on Sunday, and Isaac is doing an amazing job for his first time being in a GT3 car. The guy’s driving phenomenal so we’ll take this podium and move on to Sebring.”

Marc Austin, Driver – No. 22 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “In the end, we didn’t get the finish we could have, but for our first outing together in the Mercedes-AMG GT4, both Jason and I feel good about the result. The Lone Star Racing team and Mercedes-AMG gave us a strong car that got better as the event went on. We were able to produce the fastest Am-class lap of the race near the end, which says a lot about how strong of a GT4 platform Mercedes-AMG provides. Missing our shot at the podium due to some unfortunate on-track race circumstances doesn’t take away from the amazing effort Lone Star Racing and Mad Joker Racing put into this weekend. I am extremely proud.”

ROUSH YATES ENGINES CELEBRATES HISTORIC 200TH NASCAR CUP SERIES POINTS WIN

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, NC – April 28, 2025 – Roush Yates Engines, in partnership with Ford Performance, has reached a historic milestone by securing its 200th NASCAR Cup Series point win. This achievement is a testament to the longstanding collaboration between Jack Roush, Robert Yates, and Doug Yates whose shared vision and engineering excellence have propelled Ford Performance teams to victory for over two decades.

The 200th win was secured at the Jack Links 500 at Talladega Superspeedway, with Team Penske’s Austin Cindric taking the checkered flag. The triumph represents years of relentless dedication, performance, cutting-edge engineering, and continued leadership and resources from Ford Performance and Ford Motor Company.

Yates - Roush

“This is a historic moment for Roush Yates Engines,” said Doug Yates, President and CEO of Roush Yates Engines. “Reaching 200 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series is a testament to the dedication and passion of our entire team, our partners at Ford Performance, and the incredible drivers and teams we power. It’s also an opportunity to honor the incredible legacy of two NASCAR Hall of Fame engine builders and team owners, Jack Roush and Robert Yates —two pioneers and visionaries who joined forces to create something truly special in motorsports.”

“We’ve been fortunate to celebrate a number of milestone achievements in NASCAR the last few years. The one constant to all of those has been Roush Yates Engines,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Performance. “I’m sure when Robert and Jack started the company more than 20 years ago, they envisioned great things. Doug has continued to deliver on that through his leadership and unmatched desire to be the best. Today, we are seeing the result of that represented by 200 wins.”

In 2004, Jack Roush and Robert Yates, in collaboration with Ford Motor Company, partnered to become the exclusive Ford engine builder for NASCAR. Under the leadership of President and CEO Doug Yates, these two legendary engine builders established Roush Yates Engines in Mooresville, North Carolina. Since its inception, the company has played a pivotal role in shaping the competitive landscape of NASCAR, delivering high-performance engines that have powered countless victories.

Roush Yates Engines made an immediate impact at the start of the 2004 season, locking down the front row of the 2004 Daytona 500. The company powered Greg Biffle (Roush Racing) to the pole position and Elliott Sadler (Robert Yates Racing) to P2.

This organization secured its first NASCAR Cup Series points win on February 22, 2004, when Matt Kenseth claimed the victory at Rockingham Speedway. In its inaugural year, combining legendary power and performance from Jack Roush and Robert Yates, the company powered Kurt Busch to win the 2004 NASCAR Cup Series Championship.

Over the years, Roush Yates Engines has powered numerous wins, including Ford’s 1,000th NASCAR win in 2013 with Greg Biffle at Michigan International Speedway, as well as the company’s 100th Cup Series points win in 2016 with Joey Logano at Michigan.

Roush Yates Engines and Team Penske celebrated its first NASCAR Cup Series Championship together in 2018 with Joey Logano in Homestead-Miami.

Roush Yates Engines and Team Penske embraced the NASCAR Next Gen Car beginning in 2022, securing numerous wins and three consecutive NASCAR Cup Series Championships. This remarkable achievement marked Ford’s first three-peat in its rich 75-year history in NASCAR.

In 2023, Ryan Blaney won the Championship, but did not win the race in Phoenix.
In 2023, Ryan Blaney won the Championship, but did not win the race in Phoenix.

Roush Yates Engines remains committed to delivering power, performance, and reliability, ensuring that Ford Performance teams continue to lead the charge in NASCAR competition. As the 2025 season progresses, the company looks forward to adding even more victories to its storied legacy.

Top 5 teams:
RFK Racing (77)
Team Penske (75)
Haas Factory Team (34)
Wood Brothers Racing (4)
Front Row Motorsports (4)

Top 5 drivers:
Joey Logano (34)
Brad Keselowski (27)
Kevin Harvick (25)
Carl Edwards (23)
Greg Biffle (18)

About Roush Yates Engines
Roush Yates Engines is a leading-edge engine development company based in Mooresville, NC consisting of two state-of-the-art facilities – Roush Yates Engines and Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions, a world class AS9100 Rev D/ISO 13485 certified CNC manufacturing facility. The company’s core business includes designing, building and testing purpose-built race engines.

Ford Performance in partnership with Roush Yates Engines is the exclusive engine builder of the NASCAR FR9 Ford V8 engine.

With an unparalleled culture of winning and steeped in rich racing history, Roush Yates Engines continues to follow the company’s vision to lead performance engine innovation and staying true to the company’s mission, provide race winning engines through demonstrated power and performance.

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