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Celebrating Ford’s First Cup Championship 60 Years Ago with Ned Jarrett

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Official Release
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Daytona 500, Daytona, FL, 1998. Dale Jarrett in action. CD#0777-3292-0858-16

Ford Racing Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
Championship Week
Wednesday, October 29, 2025

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS SINCE FORD’S FIRST CUP SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP

The Ford Racing program began on Oct. 10, 1901 when Henry Ford won his first and only race, using the publicity from that day to attract investors and eventually start the Ford Motor Company. As part of celebrating its 125-year anniversary, Ford Racing will present a series of stories highlighting key moments. Today’s feature looks back at Ned Jarrett winning Ford’s first NASCAR Cup Series championship in 1965, and how he and his son, Dale, are the only father-son duo to win titles with Ford.

NASCAR is rooted in family values, so when you look at the sport’s storied history, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that some of the most successful drivers share the same last name.

Petty, Wood, Jarrett, Pearson, Allison, Elliott, Waltrip, Earnhardt, Labonte, Wallace, and Busch are some of the names that have dotted the NASCAR landscape through the decades. And while they’ve all won major races and championships, only one father and son duo can say they’ve won a NASCAR Cup Series championship with Ford Racing — Ned and Dale Jarrett.

Ned made manufacturer history when he became the first Ford driver to win a championship in NASCAR’s top division, achieving that milestone in 1965. In addition, he still stands as Ford’s all-time leader for career wins with 43.

“The Pettys are certainly great company to be in. There’s no doubt about that because they’ve been such icons in the sport and so good for the sport over the years,” said Ned about following in the footsteps of Lee and Richard Petty. “For Dale and I to become only the second father-son to win championships is a special feeling to us also. We’re just so thankful for the opportunities that came about to allow us to do that.”

Dale captured his championship in 1999 while driving for Robert Yates Racing and ranks fifth on the all-time Ford win list with 30.

“You think about all the things that have happened in motorsports and in NASCAR racing over the years, and to be part of a select group like that is very rewarding. I was obviously very proud of everything my dad had accomplished. When you go in and kind of follow in what your father did, especially when they were very successful, it can be difficult at times,” said Dale. “I didn’t know if I could drive a race car, but when I got the opportunity to drive it, I thought I could become good enough to one day win races. It’s almost hard to sometimes put it into words, but anytime you can do something for your father, who had done so much for you, I think that makes it even more special.”

Even though the Jarretts won their championships with Ford more than 30 years apart, there were some similarities in how they got there. Despite the fact that Ned won 15 races in 1964, he did not win the championship because his team was not as consistent as it needed to be throughout the season. Likewise, Dale won seven races in 1997, but finished second to Jeff Gordon in the championship chase by a mere 14 points.

Those disappointments, however, helped set the stage for bigger and better things down the road.

“We prepared very well for the 1965 season to try to win the championship,” said Ned, who recently celebrated his 93rd birthday. “We won 13 races and were able to win the championship, but building that consistency in there – 36 top three finishes out of 54 events – that’s two out of every three – and 45 top 10s. We set out to do that and, fortunately, we had a vehicle and the help from Ford that we needed to be able to pull it off.”

When listening to how Dale won his title in 1999 it was like a mirror image of his dad’s.

“If you look back on it, we had 34 points races that year and in 29 of those events we finished in the top 10. That’s pretty amazing,” recalled Dale. “I don’t care what time or what era of racing you’re in, when you can do that and have that type of consistency, that’s what it takes to do it. Plus, we won races, so everything fell into place for us. Between the backing we had from Ford Motor Company and everyone involved, it was just a tremendous season.”

Another honor Dale and Ned share is that both were included on the list of NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers, which came out during NASCAR’s 50th Anniversary celebration in 1998.

“We all like to see our children do well and to do as good or better than we did, and I always felt that Dale did a lot better than me,” said Ned. “He didn’t win as many races or as many championships, but the races that he did win – three Daytona 500s and two Brickyards – and the fact that he won so many on the superspeedways was a surprise to me. He started his career with short track racing and I thought that’s where he would be his best, but it was very special to see him win the races that he did win and to go on and win a championship. To do it in a Ford car was very, very special to us because Ford had been a part of our family for so long.”

How long?

“The first car that I remember my dad having was a 1934 Ford. He had six children. It was a two-door car and he put all six of us and my mother into the car and we’d go to church,” said Ned. “When Ford came out with a tractor he bought one of those and he had a Ford truck that he used on the farm and at the sawmill. Ford is about the only thing that we had as far as vehicles were concerned.”

Dale echoed his dad’s sentiment.

“There’s no doubt we grew up a Ford family. Early on my dad drove some other makes of cars, but my first recollection is about Ford,” he said. “I can actually remember Ford sending a film crew to our house in Camden, SC, to do a little video and I think it became a 25-30 minute feature on my dad, so they were at our house for a few days doing all of this and that’s how Ford got into my mind. I thought it was a special company that wants to come and do this and tell the story of my dad and everything taking place.

“Ford Motor Company has been that for a long time. I was extremely proud that I was able to win my first Cup race in a Ford and win my championship in a Ford. They have been very loyal to me over the years.”

This story was previously written for FordRacing.com and has been updated to reflect current statistics.

AM Racing | Harrison Burton Phoenix Raceway II November Xfinity Race Preview

By
Official Release
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AM Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway | NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race

Fast Facts

No. 25 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Harrison Burton
Primary Partner(s): Dead On Tools
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Danny Efland
Spotter: Kevin Hamlin
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. 054
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines
2025 Driver Points Position: 12th
2025 Owner Points Position: 13th

Notes of Interest:

● Junior Journey: AM Racing will embark on its junior year journey in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2025 with driver Harrison Burton for the entire 33-race tour, concluding with Saturday’s running of the Xfinity Series Championship Race at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway.

● Future Focused: In September 2024, AM Racing announced that NASCAR Cup Series winner Harrison Burton would join the family-owned operation to pilot the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang, beginning with the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season-opener from Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on February 15, 2025.

Burton, a native of Huntersville, N.C., has been a staple in the NASCAR Cup Series for the past three seasons but will return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series, continuing his relationship as a driver of the Ford Blue Oval.

Burton, 24, arrives on the scene at AM Racing after a 108-race stint driving for the historic Wood Brothers Racing team.

● Dead On Focused: In January, AM Racing announced a new partnership for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season, which continues with the IAA and Ritchie Bros. 250. As part of the agreement, Dead On Tools will serve as the primary partner on the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang for the final race of the year.

Dead On Tools: A collision of serious tool-using professionals and a lifestyle lived out loud. Dead On Tools sets the highest standard for precision tools and work gear products in the industry today, representing innovation and quality that was born from actual users in the trade.

Dead On Tools is headquartered in the Midwest and distributes professional tools and work gear products throughout North America.

● Harrison Burton NASCAR Xfinity Series Phoenix Raceway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s Xfinity Series Championship Race will mark Burton’s sixth Xfinity Series start at the iconic 1.0-mile speedway.

In his previous five starts, Burton has delivered an Xfinity track-best of second after starting third in the 2020 edition of the LS Tractor 200, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Additionally, Burton has delivered two top-five and three top-10 finishes and an average Xfinity track finish of 8.6.

Earlier this year, Burton qualified 21st and finished a respectable 20th in the Call 811.com Every Dig. Every Time. 200, the fourth race of the 2025 season, in March.

Also, the Huntersville, N.C., native has six NASCAR Cup Series starts at Phoenix, delivering a track-best 16th after starting ninth in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race driving for Wood Brothers Racing.

Burton, the second-generation racer, has also earned one top-five and two top-10 finishes in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series.

● Harrison Burton NASCAR Xfinity Series Career Stats: Entering Phoenix, Burton has 107 career NASCAR Xfinity Series starts to his credit with four wins, 28 top-five and 59 top-10 finishes, and a championship-best result of eighth, twice in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

Burton’s four wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series occurred during the 2020 season. Burton, the son of former NASCAR driver and current television analyst Jeff Burton, captured the checkered flag at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway, Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway and Martinsville (Va.) Speedway, respectively.

Burton maintains a solid Xfinity Series average finishing position of 12.8 in four years of competition.

In addition to the 107 Xfinity Series starts, he has achieved 109 NASCAR Cup Series starts, 40 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts and 52 career starts across the ARCA Menards Series platforms.

● AM Racing NASCAR Xfinity Series Overview at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway: This weekend’s Xfinity Series Championship Race will mark AM Racing’s sixth career NASCAR Xfinity Series appearance at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway nestled in Avondale.

In the team’s five previous outings in the desert, their best track performance came in their track debut when Brett Moffitt finished 13th after qualifying his No. 25 AM Technical Solutions Ford Mustang 17th.

Collectively, AM Racing holds an average finish of 20.0 in its NASCAR Xfinity Series efforts at Phoenix Raceway, highlighted by four top-20 results.

Brett Moffitt led the team’s early success at the one-mile oval with finishes of 13th and 15th, while former NASCAR Next driver Dylan Lupton earned a 19th-place result in last November’s season finale.

Earlier this year, Harrison Burton, in just his fourth start with the team, added a 20th-place finish to the organization’s Phoenix résumé.

On intermediate tracks measuring between 1.0 and 2.0 miles, the Statesville, N.C.-based organization has amassed 45 Xfinity Series starts, recording one top-five and eight top-10 finishes, with an average finish of 19.1.

● Martinsville Speedway | IAA and Ritchie Bros. 250 Recap: The NASCAR Xfinity Series returned to the famed Martinsville Speedway, where Harrison Burton and AM Racing were determined to rebound from their early-season misfortune.

During the brief 25-minute practice session at the legendary Virginia short track, Burton showed solid pace, and a series of smart adjustments from crew chief Danny Efland helped the No. 25 Dead On Tools Ford Mustang find additional speed heading into qualifying.

Burton immediately impressed in time trials, turning the fifth-quickest lap on his opening circuit. Looking to improve, he dug deep on his second lap and surged to the top of the leaderboard, setting the fastest time of the session with about a dozen cars remaining to qualify.

The final moments of the nail-biting qualifying round saw several challengers, including Playoff driver Carson Kvapil, come close to knocking Burton from the top spot. But when the dust settled, Burton and AM Racing celebrated their first career pole — both individually and collectively — in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

When the green flag waved, Burton set a strong pace early, leading the first 16 laps before settling comfortably inside the top five through much of Stage 1. Despite varying pit strategies throughout the stage, Burton maintained a steady presence inside the top 10, earning valuable stage points for the team.

Over the course of the event, Burton navigated the tight confines and trademark aggression of short-track racing.

Though his Mustang’s balance wasn’t perfect, he remained a consistent contender inside the top 10. A chaotic overtime restart, however, shuffled the order in the closing laps, leaving Burton to cross the finish line 11th, still marking a substantial improvement from his 24th-place finish at Martinsville in the spring.

Over the final weekend of racing, the No. 25 AM Racing Ford Mustang team will continue to battle for the highest possible finishing position among non-Playoff competitors in the driver championship standings by the conclusion of the Championship 4 race at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway on November 1.

● A Memorable Season: The curtain will fall on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season Saturday afternoon, and regardless of the outcome, Harrison Burton and the AM Racing team will close the year celebrating a campaign defined by milestones, growth and unity.

Entering the Xfinity Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway, Burton and the AM Racing team have compiled an impressive body of work across 32 races — highlighted by one pole, two top-five finishes and 10 top-10s.

One of the team’s breakthrough moments came just last weekend at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway, where Burton captured AM Racing’s first career Xfinity Series pole.

Earlier in the season, he delivered AM Racing’s best-ever Xfinity Series result — a third-place finish in the North Carolina Education Lottery 250 at Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway in April.

Burton also propelled the family-owned team into the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs in just their third full season of competition.

Throughout the year, his consistency has been a defining strength, earning 21 top-15 and 25 top-20 finishes while completing 5,104 of 5,124 laps — a 99.6 percent completion rate.

The No. 25 team also displayed remarkable reliability, suffering just one DNF all season — at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, when a broken axle ended their day just 10 laps from the finish.

● Thanks For Your Support: With 96 percent of the 2025 Xfinity season complete, AM Racing and Harrison Burton would like to thank their partners for their continued support: AIRBOX Air Purifier, Blue Wolf Cleaner & Degreasers, Dead On Tools, DEX Imaging, Eagle Rentals, Flying Circle, Mechanix Wear, Morton Buildings, Racing Radios, Volt Batteries and WIX Filters.

● From the Pit Box: Veteran race engineer and former NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Danny Efland is Harrison Burton’s crew chief.

He will serve as crew chief for his 37th career NASCAR Xfinity Series race — and his third race at Phoenix Raceway in a leadership role on Saturday.

In his previous 36 Xfinity Series starts, he has collected two poles (Daytona International Speedway | February 2016 and Martinsville Speedway | October 2025), three top-five and 11 top-10 finishes.

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

For more on Harrison Burton, please visit theharrisonburton.com, like his Facebook page (Official Harrison Burton), or follow him on Instagram (@harrisonburton12) and X | Twitter (@hburtonracing).

Harrison Burton Quoteboard:

On Phoenix Raceway: “I’m really looking forward to getting back to Phoenix Raceway this weekend. It’s a track that’s always been a lot of fun for me and one that really suits my driving style.

“Phoenix is also a place that means a lot to me because we’ve had some solid runs there as a team, and it’s a track that really challenges both the driver and the crew.

“Danny (Efland) and everyone at AM Racing have been putting in a ton of effort to keep improving every week, and I feel like our Ford Mustang has made significant progress since the spring.

“We’ve shown good speed before, and the goal is to finish the year strong and bring home a result that reflects how far we’ve come as a group.”

On Keys to Success at Phoenix Raceway: “I think track position is going to be key, but handling will also play a factor on Saturday afternoon.

“With the warmer temperatures expected, the track is going to change a lot throughout the race.

“We have to work hard and make sure we’re keeping up with adjustments and taking advantage of the restarts to capitalize and keep ourselves in the thick of the battle.

“If we can stay ahead of the track and execute, we’ll give ourselves a shot at a strong finish to end the season.”

On Expectations for Phoenix Raceway: “I’m excited to head back to Phoenix Raceway and close out the season on a strong note.

“When we raced there earlier in the year, it was only our fourth race together as a team, and since then, we’ve learned so much about our cars, our communication, and what we need to be competitive each week.

“The progress we’ve made since the spring has been really encouraging, and I’m proud of how everyone at AM Racing has continued to build and improve through the season and in the Playoffs.

“We’ve had solid pace and shown we can race inside the top 10, and I’m confident we can take what we’ve learned and put together another strong performance to finish the year.”

On Goals for the Remainder of 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Season: “Our goals for the rest of the season are pretty simple — keep building, keep learning and keep performing at a high level.

“We’ve shown we can run up front and contend for top-10s almost every week and that’s something we want to keep improving on as we close out the year.

“Even though we’re out of the Playoffs, there’s still a lot of pride in finishing strong and proving what this AM Racing team is capable of.

“We want to be the best of the rest, and we’re focused on ending the year with momentum. With the speed and chemistry, we’ve developed with our No. 25 Dead On Tools | DEX Imaging Ford Mustang throughout the season, I know we can finish this season on a high note.”

On Martinsville Speedway Finish: “Martinsville was a really solid weekend for our AM Racing team. Winning the pole was a huge moment for all of us and a testament to the hard work everyone has been putting in.

“We had great speed from the start, and it felt good to be able to lead laps and show what this team is capable of.

“The race itself was challenging — typical Martinsville short-track racing with a lot of beating and banging and different strategies playing out.

“We didn’t have the perfect balance, but we stayed in the fight all day and gave ourselves a shot at another top-10.

“The overtime restart didn’t quite go our way, but finishing 11th is still a solid step forward and something we can build on heading to Phoenix.”

Race Information:

The Xfinity Series Championship Race (200 laps | 200 miles) is the 33rd of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2025 schedule. A full 50-minute practice will occur on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 1:35 p.m. to 2:25 p.m. Qualifying will follow on race day, Saturday, November 1, beginning at 12:30 p.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 4:30 p.m. (7:30 p.m. ET), with live coverage on The CW Network, the Motor Racing Network (Radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (MT).

About AM Racing:

AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multi-faceted Motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.

Established in December 2015, AM Racing is prided on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.

In its ninth year of competition, the family-owned team will compete in the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series and various Dirt Modified events.

JR Motorsports — NXS Phoenix Raceway Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview
TRACK – Phoenix Raceway (1-mile oval)
NXS RACE – NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship (200 laps / 200 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, MRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 7:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet

Kvapil 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 32

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 14

Laps Led: 104

Avg. Finish: 13.8

Points: 2nd

Carson Kvapil will compete for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship this weekend at Phoenix Raceway after racing his way into the Championship 4 at Martinsville Speedway last weekend.

Kvapil will be making his second career NXS start at Phoenix this weekend.

In 16 career starts on intermediate tracks in the NXS, Kvapil has amassed two top-fives and four top-10s with best finishes of fifth at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and Darlington Raceway in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

Kvapil has earned a best finish of second thus far in the 2025 NXS Playoffs, coming at Talladega Superspeedway earlier this month.

Carson Kvapil

“We’re definitely coming into this weekend as the underdog, but I am so proud of this No. 1 team for working so hard to get us to this point. We didn’t have the best run at Phoenix in the spring so we are definitely looking for redemption this weekend. We plan to go out and do our best to minimize mistakes and execute all day and hopefully we will be in contention for the big prize at the end. We have one more chance this season to get a great finish for Johnny Morris and everyone at Bass Pro Shops and Clarience technologies and we plan to make the most of it.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

Allgaier 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 32

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 14

Top 10s: 19

Laps Led: 973

Avg. Finish: 12.5

Points: 3rd

2024 NXS Champion Justin Allgaier heads to Phoenix this weekend looking to defend his title as one of four drivers fighting for the 2025 championship.

Allgaier is a two-time winner in “The Valley of the Sun” in the NXS, taking the checkered flag in the spring of 2017 and in this event in 2019.

Earlier this year, Allgaier led for a race-high 130 laps at the desert oval before taking the checkered flag in fifth.

Overall, in 30 NXS starts at Phoenix, Allgaier has earned 12 top-fives and 20 top-10s to accompany his two victories.

According to NASCAR’s Loop Data Statistics, Allgaier currently ranks first in laps run inside the top 15 (5,527), green-flag passes (1,055), laps led (730) and quality passes (754) among all NXS drivers at Phoenix.

Justin Allgaier

“This is what we have all worked so hard for, to get to Phoenix with a chance to race for a championship. To have three JRM Chevrolets in this final four is amazing and just a testament to everyone back at JR Motorsports. I know that Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) and everyone on this BRANDT Professional Agriculture team is ready to go this weekend. We had a great car here in the spring and I feel like we have a really strong notebook for what we will need when we unload on Friday. If we can just go out and execute to the best of our abilities, I think we are going to have a strong chance to accomplish something great on Saturday night.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 32

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 8

Top 10s: 17

Laps Led: 62

Avg. Finish: 14.3

Points: 8th

Sammy Smith heads into the final NXS race of the 2025 season eighth in points, 13 behind seventh and only 15 points from fifth.

Smith has competed at Phoenix six times with the NXS and in those, tallied one win, one top-five and four top-10 finishes.

Smith’s Victory at Phoenix came in the Spring of 2023 after starting 11th and leading 92 laps enroute to the win.

Pilot will share the TV panel with Shamrock Farms Rockin’ Protein. The company offers several different dairy-based drinks that can build, energize and recover your muscles after intense workouts.

Sammy Smith

“I’m disappointed that we’re not going into Phoenix competing for a championship but this No. 8 Pilot team is still going to fight for a win. We’ve done well there in the past so we’ll focus on the end goal of gaining points to close out the season strong and get this Pilot Chevrolet to Victory Lane.”

Connor Zilisch

No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet

Zilisch 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 31

Wins: 10

Top 5s: 19

Top 10s: 22

Laps Led: 986

Avg. Finish: 8.2

Points: 1st

Connor Zilisch will compete for the NXS Championship Saturday afternoon at Phoenix. Other drivers in the Championship 4 are JRM teammates Allgaier and Kvapil plus Jesse Love from Richard Childress Racing.

The No. 88 WeatherTech team is also competing for the NXS Owner’s Championship at Phoenix. Other teams racing for the prestigious title include the JRM No. 7, Richard Childress Racing (No. 21) and Joe Gibbs Racing (No. 19).

Zilisch will be making his third NXS start at Phoenix this weekend, the most starts at one track in his young career. He scored a fourth-place finish at the 1-mile desert oval in November 2024.

The 2025 season has been remarkably successful for Zilisch. In addition to locking into the Championship 4, Zilisch has 10 victories in 31 starts, including nine wins in the last 17 races. Zilisch owns the record for most wins by a rookie and his four consecutive victories earlier this season tied him for most consecutive victories all-time with Sam Ard and Noah Gragson.

Connor Zilisch

“It’s really cool to be in the Championship 4 with my teammates Justin and Carson. It’s going to be a crazy busy weekend in Phoenix but I’m glad to be doing it alongside them. We just need to execute the day and make the most of it on Saturday. We’ve made sure that everything we do is calculated and are accounting for any and all situations to be prepared for anything. Before the season started my crew chief Mardy Lindley had me fill out a points and win prediction. I had us winning four races so to sit here today with 10 wins and winning the regular season championship plus locking into the Championship 4 early, this No. 88 team has certainly outdone my expectations. I’ve learned so much this season at JRM on a professional and personal level that I’ll carry with me into the Cup Series.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Phoenix Raceway: JR Motorsports has competed at Phoenix Raceway a combined 113 times in the NXS since 2006. In those starts at the 1-mile oval, the organization has recorded four wins, 29 top-fives and 58 top-10s. The average finish is 13.1.

Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith and Connor Zilisch will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / HMS-Byron/Bowman souvenir rig on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 10:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. PT.

ARCA Menards Series West at Phoenix Raceway: Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 Pre-race Notes, Entry List, Stats Update

By
Official Release
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THE RACE: Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100
THE PLACE: Phoenix Raceway, Avondale, Ariz.
THE DATE: Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025
THE TIME: 12:45 pm ET / 10:45 am MT​​
TV: FloRacing, Live
RADIO: MRN Radio, Live

  • Trevor Huddleston (No. 50 High Point Racing / Racecar Factory Ford) leads the ARCA Menards Series West standings into the final round of the 2025 season, Saturday’s Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 at Phoenix Raceway. Huddleston leads runner-up Kyle Keller (No. 71 Jan’s Towing / Jan’s Racing Ford) by 35 points; he will clinch the championship when he receives the 50-point bonus for competing in both races in the final segment of the season once he practices on Friday.
  • Huddleston took the points lead when won the season opener at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway and did not relinquish it for the rest of the season.
  • Keller has a 15-point lead over his teammate Robbie Kennealy (No. 1 Jan’s Towing / Jan’s Racing Ford) in the battle for the second position in the standings. In turn, Kennealy has a nine-point lead over Eric Johnson, Jr. (No. 5 Sherwin-Williams Toyota).
  • Clovis, California native Jade Avedisian (No. 13 Central Coast Cabinets Toyota) replaces Tucson winner Tanner Reif in the potent Central Coast Racing ride for the season finale. Avedisian made her name in dirt track open wheel racing – she is the 2023 Xtreme Outlaw Series Midget champion – before transitioning to pavement stock cars. Avedisian finished 12th in her West debut driving for Venturini Motorsports at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
  • Former ARCA Menards Series West champion Derek Kraus (No. 09 Shockwave Marine Suspension Seating Toyota) will make his first series start since 2022 when he finished ninth in the season opener at Phoenix Raceway. Kraus has 10 career series victories and was the 2019 series champion; he will compete as a teammate to David Smith (No. 05 Shockwave Marine Suspension Seating Toyota).
  • Brent Crews (No. 18 Mobil 1 Toyota), who won in March, will be looking to sweep the season at Phoenix Raceway. Crews has victories across the ARCA Menards Series platform in 2025, including four in the ARCA Menards Series, three in the ARCA Menards Series East, and one in the ARCA Menards Series West.
  • ASA STARS National Tour leading rookie Carson Brown (No. 28 J Star Capital Investments / Unifi MI Industrial Chevrolet) will make his first start with ARCA Menards Series championship-winning team Pinnacle Racing Group. Brown made his ARCA Menards Series East debut this season at Five Flags Speedway and finished sixth; he scored his first ASA STARS National Tour win earlier this season at Madison International Speedway. PRG won the Phoenix finale last year with current NASCAR Xfinity Series championship contender Connor Zilisch driving.
  • Four female drivers are entered in the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100: Avedisian, Isabella Robusto (No. 2 AMSYS / RAFA Racing Team Toyota), Kaylee Bryson (No. 17 MMI / LSI Chevrolet), Taylor Reimer (No. 25 BuzzBallz Toyota).
  • Nitro Motorsports will field four entries at Phoenix Raceway for Leland Honeyman, Jr. (No. 20 Nitro Motorsports Toyota), Taylor Reimer, and Thad Moffitt (No. 46 Pristine Auction Toyota), and Thomas Annunziata (No. 70 Nitro Motorsports Toyota).
  • Robusto will make her first appearance at the wheel for RAFA Racing, a new team transitioning from road racing owned by former NASCAR Cup Series driver Kevin Conway. Robusto, who is currently enrolled in the engineering program at Arizona State University, finished fourth in the final ARCA Menards Series standings this season; she finished sixth at Phoenix Raceway in March 2024.
  • Two-time NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series national champion Connor Hall (No. 24 Sigma Performance Services Chevrolet) will make his second straight appearance with the Joe Farre’- owned Sigma Performance Services team. Hall led 35 laps at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway en route to a second-place finish in his series debut.
  • Spire Motorsports will field 15-year-old sensation Tristan McKee (No. 77 Spire Chevrolet) in his first ARCA Menards Series West start on Saturday. McKee won in his ARCA Menards Series debut in August at Watkins Glen International, becoming the second-youngest winner in series history at 15 years, 6 days of age.
  • The Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 will be streamed live on FloRacing starting at 12:30 pm ET / 10:30 am MT Saturday, November 1. The race will also be broadcast live on select affiliates of the MRN Radio network and on MRN.com. Live timing & scoring data and live race audio will be available on ARCARacing.com; for up-to-the-minute updates please follow @ARCA_Racing on X (formerly known as Twitter).

About ARCA 
The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), founded in 1953 by John and Mildred Marcum in Toledo, Ohio, and acquired by NASCAR in April 2018, is the leading grassroots stock car sanctioning body in the United States. Bridging the gap between NASCAR’s top three national touring series and weekly and regional tour racing all across the country, the organization sanctions over 100 races per year in the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, ASA STARS National Tour, ASA CRA Super Series, ASA Midwest Tour, ASA Southern Super Series plus weekly racing at Toledo and Flat Rock Speedways. For more information about ARCA visit www.arcaracing.com, or follow ARCA on Facebook (@ARCARacing) and Twitter (@ARCA_Racing). 

About Menards
A family-owned and run company started in 1958, Menards is recognized as the retail home center leader of the Midwest with 236 stores in 15 states.  Menards is truly a one-stop shop for all of your home improvement needs featuring a full-service lumberyard and everything you need to plan a renovation or build a home, garage, cabin, shed, deck, fence or post frame building.  You’ll find a large selection of lumber, roofing, siding, construction blocks, trusses, doors and windows, plus cabinets, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint, plumbing supplies and more.  To complete the job, Menards has quality hand tools, power tools, fasteners, electrical tools plus storage options and supplies for everyone from the weekend warrior to the pro!
 
Menards has what you need to complete your outdoor projects and keep your yard in tip-top shape including mowers, trimmers, blowers, pressure washers and more, plus a beautiful garden center stocked with plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping tools, grass seed, fertilizer options, outdoor décor and patio furniture.  Menards also has everyday essentials like health & beauty products, housewares, pet and wildlife supplies, automotive items and even groceries.  And at Christmas, an Enchanted Forest display area with impressive trees, lighting, decorations, ornaments, inflatables and more. 
Menards is known for friendly Customer Service and as the place to “Save Big Money” with low prices every day, and sales too!  For more information, please visit Menards.com to learn about our store locations, offerings and services.

Spire Motorsports NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In 25 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Phoenix Raceway, Spire Motorsports has logged one top-15 and three top-20 finishes. Carson Hocevar, driver of the team’s No. 77 Delaware Life Chevrolet ZL1, earned a team-best 15th-place finish in the series’ March 2024 visit to the “Diamond in the Desert.” Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet ZL1s with Justin Haley, Michael McDowell and Hocevar, respectively.
  • Throughout the month of October, Spire Motorsports is trading its signature “Ascent Yellow” for “Breast Cancer Pink” in celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness month, honoring the incredible strength and resilience of those who have been affected by the life-altering disease. Fans can purchase limited edition “Spire Goes Pink” merchandise online or at the team’s race shop located at 351 Mazeppa Road in Mooresville, N.C. All proceeds will be donated to support breast cancer research. In addition to the financial contribution, Spire Motorsports will recognize the team’s employees, friends and family members who have been impacted by breast cancer. Their stories will be shared across the organization’s social media channels over the next five weeks.
  • The NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race will be televised live on NBC Sunday, Nov. 2 beginning at 3 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 36th and final event on the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series calendar will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Channel 90.

Justin Haley – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet ZL1

  • Justin Haley will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Gainbridge Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway, marking his 10th NASCAR Cup Series start at the one-mile oval. Earlier this year, Haley qualified eighth for the Shriners Children’s 500 and was running 14th when he was taken out of contention on Lap 98 following a multi-vehicle incident on a restart.
  • In nine previous Cup Series starts at Phoenix, Haley has an average starting position of 25.2, a 26.2 average finishing position, and owns a venue-best finish of 17th earned in March 2022.
  • The Winamac, Ind., native has competed in all three of NASCAR’s national series at Phoenix Raceway. He owns six NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at the famed suburban Phoenix oval, earning two top-five and four top-10 finishes. He posted an average starting position of 9.2 and a 10.5 average finish. Haley also notched one top 10 in three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts.
  • Founded in 2018, Gainbridge® is an insurtech subsidiary of Group 1001 that empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone, no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Its platform provides access to financial products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge® is headquartered in Zionsville, Ind. For more information, visit www.gainbridge.com or follow and connect with Gainbridge on X and LinkedIn.
  • Haley competed in the ARCA Menards Series West race at Phoenix in 2015. He started from the pole and finished 21st in the 2015 Casino Arizona 100.
  • Sunday’s race at Phoenix will mark Haley’s last with Spire Motorsports. Haley first joined the organization in 2019 and claimed Spire Motorsports’ first Cup Series victory in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in just his third start. The 2016 ARCA Menards Series East Champion went on to compete full time in the Cup Series for Kaulig Racing and Rick Ware Racing and returned to Spire Motorsports in 2024 to complete the final six races of the season in the No. 7 Chevrolet.
  • Over the course of seven years, Haley has collected one win, six top five, 18 top 10s and led 123 laps in NASCAR’s premier series.

Justin Haley Quotes
What are your thoughts on Phoenix?
“I can’t thank Gainbridge enough for all of their support. I want to thank my guys on the team for building competitive cars each and every week. In the spring we had a good baseline, but got caught up in an unfortunate situation. I’m looking forward to coming back and contending with the guys up front. I am hoping to go out on a good note and have a great race.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Ryan Sparks
Ryan Sparks, Spire Motorsports’ Competition Director and crew chief for driver Justin Haley, has sat atop the pit box for 201 NASCAR Cup Series races, earning four top-five and 10 top-10 finishes over the course of his career.
The Winston-Salem, N.C., native has called 10 NASCAR Cup Series races at Phoenix Raceway and posted a best-finish of 18th in November 2022 with driver Corey LaJoie.

Michael McDowell – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet ZL1

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Tide Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series season finale at Phoenix Raceway.
  • McDowell, a native of Glendale, Ariz., has made 29 attempts at his home track in Cup Series competition, scoring back-to-back top-10 finishes in the fall of 2023 and spring of 2024.
  • In NASCAR Xfinity Series competition, he has completed 999 laps at the one-mile oval, claiming a venue-best 11th-place finish in 2009 during his time with JTG-Daugherty Racing.
  • McDowell has tallied three top-five, five top-10, 14 top-15, and 21 top-20 finishes so far this season. To date, the veteran racer has earned an average starting position of 15.1, an 18.5 average finish, led 96 laps and been running at the finish of all but two of the season’s 34 points-paying races.
  • Over the last eight races, the Cup Series veteran has earned an average finish of 14.3 highlighted by a fifth-place finish at the Bank of America ROVAL 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway and an eighth-place effort at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
  • The Bank of America ROVAL 400 marked the No. 71 team’s third top five of the season, a single-season record for the first-year Spire Motorsports driver.
  • Tide will return to the NASCAR Cup Series scene abord McDowell’s No. 71 Chevrolet. The iconic brand has been represented by some of NASCAR’s most iconic drivers including Darrell Waltrip, Ricky Rudd, Ricky Craven, and most recently with Justin Haley in 2023.
  • Developed in 1946 by Procter & Gamble, Tide® is America’s No. 1 trusted laundry detergent brand, delivering a powerful clean, tough stain removal, and long-lasting brightness for over 75 years. Tide continues to evolve to meet the needs of families with options available in Powder, Liquid and PODS®, as well as hypoallergenic solutions like Free & Gentle. Trusted by generations, Tide is committed to making laundry simpler while delivering a reliable clean. For more information, visit www.Tide.com or follow @Tidelaundry on social media.
  • McDowell has claimed four Xfinity Fastest Lap awards this season, clocking the fastest lap in the Daytona 500, Phoenix Raceway and both contests at Talladega Superspeedway.
  • The No. 71 team secured Spire Motorsports’ first Busch Light Pole Award in March at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. McDowell’s 28.833-second lap marks the fastest lap recorded in NASCAR’s seventh-generation Cup Series car (2022-present) at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval.
  • McDowell’s Travis Peterson-led team laid down a lap time of 52.481 seconds (182.466 MPH) to pick up the organization’s third Busch Light pole award of the 2025 season two weekends ago at Talladega Superspeedway.
  • McDowell’s team earned a handsome $100,000 payday and a trip to Victory Lane after winning the Mechanix Wear Pit Crew Challenge during May’s NASCAR All-Star Weekend at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway. The crew’s winning 12.587-second stop topped all entries for both the NASCAR All-Star Open and NASCAR All-Star Race, earning them the title of the fastest team on pit road.Michael McDowell Quote
  • What makes Phoenix such a dynamic track given it’s the final race of the season?
  • “It’s not so much the track as it is the weekend. It’s the championship weekend. It’s high intensity and high excitement. But for me, it’s the last race of the season and you want to go out with good momentum. I know it sounds silly, but we always talk about, you’re only as good as your last race, and you don’t want to carry your last race into the offseason if it is not a good one. So, finishing off strong is super important for everybody at the shop, the crew, and morale. It’s a grueling season. You get to the end and you don’t want the last couple of races to be that gut shot where you just feel like you’ve lost steam. So, I think finishing strong across the last few weeks is really important as we build momentum going into the 2026 season.”

Atop the No. 71 Box – Crew Chief Travis Peterson

  • Travis Peterson owns two top 10s at Phoenix Raceway, both coming with Michael McDowell behind the wheel.
  • As a race engineer at Hendrick Motorsports, Peterson played a key role in Dale Earnhardt, Jr.’s. final Cup Series victory at Phoenix Raceway in November 2015.
  • The West Bend, Wisc., native continued to boost the Hendrick No. 88 team in 2016, propelling Alex Bowman to his first-career pole award at the Avondale, Ariz., oval that fall. Bowman led 194 of the 324 laps, en route to a sixth-place finish.

Carson Hocevar – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet ZL1

  • Carson Hocevar will make his fifth NASCAR Cup Series start at Phoenix Raceway in Sunday’s 312-lap season finale. The 2024 Rookie of the Year finished inside the top 20 in his first three starts and earned a best finish of 15th in the March 2024 event.
  • When the Cup Series visited the one-mile D-shaped oval in March, Hocevar qualified third, his best start at Phoenix.
  • Outside of the Cup Series, Hocevar owns five NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Phoenix. The Portage, Mich., native finished in the top 10 in the 2021 and 2022 events while driving a Niece Motorsports Silverado.
  • Hocevar has finished in the top 20 in 11 of 21 events contested on tracks one mile or less. His best finish was a seventh-place result at the half-mile Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway in September.
  • Heading into the final race of the year, Hocevar owns two top fives – runner-up results earned at Atlanta Motor Speedway in February and Nashville Superspeedway in June – and nine top-10 finishes. The 22-year-old driver picked up his career-first Cup Series pole in May at Texas Motor Speedway and led a total of 122 laps on the season.
  • Delaware Life is an insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings LLC, Delaware Life focuses on delivering a seamless experience for advisors. The company understands how important it is to find the right fit for every client, every situation and every individual need. Delaware Life is passionate about equipping advisors with annuities that give their customers peace of mind and a successful future, allowing them to plan with confidence for whatever’s next.

Carson Hocevar Quotes
How do you rate this season overall?
“It has been a tough season, but I think we learned a lot as a team and I learned a lot as a driver. On and off the track, there were some moments that were not ideal or in any way fun to work through, but we can look back now and say we made it and we’re a stronger team for it. We were so close to a win multiple times this year and it sucks to not have the finishes to show for that, but that just gives us something to strive for as we work through the off season.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Luke Lambert

  • Sunday’s race at Phoenix will mark the conclusion of crew chief Luke Lambert’s second full-time Cup Series season with Hocevar and the No. 77 team. Together the pair have collected three top fives and 15 top-10s over the course of 71 points-paying races.
  • Lambert has called 23 Cup Series races at Phoenix dating to 2013. Lambert led Ryan Newman Victory Lane in 2017, and collected four top-10 finishes with Newman and 21-time Cup Series winner Jeff Burton at the venue.
  • In four Xfinity Series events at Phoenix, Lambert earned two wins and three top-five finishes. He helped Elliott Sadler to Victory Lane in March 2012, and Noah Gragson in March 2022. Lambert and Gragson started second and led 114 of 200 laps to earn their first of eight wins in 2022.

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

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

Miami Finalizes On-Track Activity For 2026 Grand Prix Weekend

By
Official Release
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  • Three days of exciting on-track action confirmed for next year’s May 1-3 event
  • Supporting McLaren Trophy America to make F1 weekend debut alongside Porsche Carrera Cup North America
  • Amex Presale Tickets® for 1-Day Grandstand passes begins today
  • Miami also introduces Grandstand+ presented by Heineken, featuring premium perks for fans such as access to the Stadium Club, complimentary parking with shuttle service and an Opening Night Kick-Off party
  • A variety of grandstand and hospitality tickets are on sale now at f1miamigp.com

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – South Florida Motorsports (SFM), organizers of the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX, have announced a full slate of track activity for 2026 F1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix weekend. The popular F1 Sprint format will return to Miami Gardens for the third consecutive year, along with Porsche Carrera Cup North America, while McLaren Trophy America will make its Formula 1 debut, giving fans three full days of on-track action.

The 2026 edition of the race — set for May 1-3 — will once again feature Sprint Qualifying on Friday, the F1 Sprint race on Saturday and the Grand Prix on Sunday at the 3.36-mile Miami International Autodrome. Miami will be the only American race to host an F1 Sprint next season, following the record-breaking event this past May. The Saturday fixture set a new viewership record for Formula 1 since the format was introduced in 2021 and featured 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli on P1 of the starting grid — the youngest-ever pole sitter of an F1 race.

“We’re proud that Miami has become one of the premier race weekends on the Formula 1 calendar and we plan to raise the bar once again in 2026,” said Katharina Nowak, President of the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX. “The return of the Sprint race gives fans world-class racing every single day, and we’re complementing that with exciting support action in McLaren Trophy America and Porsche Carrera Cup North America. We’re committed to providing an experience where fans can feel the energy of Miami while enjoying a full slate of the world’s best motorsport action.”

Miami will once again offer an action-packed support program, with the Formula 1 debut of McLaren Trophy America. In only its second full season, the one-make championship for the stunning 585PS twin-turbo McLaren Artura Trophy car will feature two 40-minute (plus one lap) races in Miami Gardens. In addition, Porsche Carrera Cup North America returns to the Miami International Autodrome for the third consecutive year, bringing the newly-announced Porsche 911 Cup car (type 992.2), promising faster lap times and competitive racing. Miami continues to open the campus to fans, who will be able to get up close to the action at Motorsports Alley presented by Ticketmaster, where both the McLaren and Porsche support paddocks will be accessible throughout the weekend.

Fans can now purchase tickets across a variety of options, including 1-Day Grandstand tickets. Amex Presale Tickets® for 1-Day options are available exclusively to American Express® Card Members from October 29 at 12 p.m. ET through November 3 at 12 p.m. ET, while supplies last. Introduced in 2025, 1-Day Grandstand tickets give fans the flexibility to choose the day or days that best fit their schedule, creating a customizable way to experience the excitement of race weekend.

A new addition for 2026 is Grandstand+ presented by Heineken, which extends the race weekend experience to Thursday, granting fans exclusive access to the Opening Night Kick-Off Party. The new Grandstand+ program also includes access to Stadium Club, complimentary offsite parking with shuttle service and two Heineken® beers each day (must be 21+ to enjoy this benefit). To access Grandstand+ benefits, fans must purchase a 3-Day Grandstand ticket and enroll in auto-renewal after checkout.

In addition to Grandstand+ presented by Heineken, the return of the Grandstand Pass gives spectators the opportunity to view the action from a different location on each day of the weekend. All ticket holders will continue to enjoy the diverse entertainment and activations around the Campus, including world-class food and beverage offerings. The FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX remains the only Formula 1 event where fans can enjoy views directly into the F1 Team Village, as spectators have an unparalleled look into the heart of the paddock from the 300 level of Hard Rock Stadium.

Returning for its fifth year, the race around Hard Rock Stadium is set to deliver more excitement than ever, with a full schedule of racing, world-class hospitality, and the festival-style entertainment that has made Miami one of the most popular stops on the global Formula 1 calendar. To purchase tickets or learn more, fans can visit www.f1miamigp.com.

FULL SCHEDULE OF ON-TRACK ACTION*

FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2026

F1 Practice Session
F1 Sprint Qualifying
McLaren Trophy Practice Sessions
Porsche Carrera Cup Practice Sessions

SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026

F1 Sprint Race
F1 Qualifying
McLaren Trophy Qualifying
Porsche Carrera Cup Qualifying
McLaren Trophy Race #1
Porsche Carrera Cup Race #1

SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2026

F1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix
McLaren Trophy Race #2
Porsche Carrera Cup Race #2

* subject to change

About FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX 

The FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX, established in 2022 on the FIA Formula 1 World Championship calendar, is the premier culmination of world-class racing, fan experience, entertainment and hospitality, located in Miami Gardens, Florida. The event is hosted by South Florida Motorsports (SFM), who was awarded Promoter of the Year by Formula 1 in 2025. The race was also recognized as Best New Event of 2022 by Sports Business Journal and was awarded the prestigious FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation rating for its overall sustainability and environmental management efforts. Now entering its fifth year, the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX is held at the Miami International Autodrome, a 19-turn, 3.36-mile track within the complex of Hard Rock Stadium, the home of the legendary Miami Dolphins NFL team.

For more information please visit: https://media.f1miamigp.com/

About MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AUTODROME 

The Miami International Autodrome (MIA), established in 2022 with the debut of the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX, has become one of the fastest-growing motorsports circuits in the world. The autodrome, which is built around the iconic Hard Rock Stadium, consists of five FIA Grade One track configurations, including the 19-turn, 5.41km Grand Prix circuit, the Extended Marina Loop (19 turns, 4.52km), the Marina Loop (18 turns, 3.94km), the Extended MIA Loop (13 turns, 2.30km) and finally the MIA Loop (14 turns, 2.83km). 

The circuit has hosted a wide range of racing series since opening in 2022, including Formula 1, F1 Academy, Ferrari Racing Days, Porsche Carrera Cup and the W Series. The Miami International Autodrome also hosted Formula E’s Evo Sessions in 2025 and will host the Miami E-Prix in January 2026. The circuit is home to the Precision Drive Club, a private driving club with exclusive access to the track. Community events such as the Dolphins Cancer Challenge, the NFL’s largest philanthropic event with more than $90 millionraised for cancer research over the past 15 years, also utilize the MIA facilities. 

TOP FUEL’S SHAWN LANGDON READY TO BE AGGRESSIVE TO STAY IN TITLE HUNT IN LAS VEGAS

By
Official Release
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LAS VEGAS (Oct. 28, 2025) – Top Fuel’s Shawn Langdon is headed to The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway for this weekend’s 25th annual Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection with a singular focus and that’s winning for the fourth time this season.

The past Top Fuel world champion enters the weekend third in points, but knows it will take a near-perfect finish, plus a falter from his Kalitta Motorsports teammate, points leader Doug Kalitta, to win another world championship.

Rather than wish for that, Langdon is focused solely on winning the race, which serves as the fifth of six playoff races in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs. At the very least, a victory this weekend in Las Vegas in his 12,000-horsepower Kalitta Air 25th anniversary dragster would at least keep him in championship contention heading into the finale.

“We have to win the last two races,” Langdon said. “Doug’s been on a pretty good run; when Doug and AJ (crew chief Alan Johnson) get in the zone, they’re very tough to beat. Justin (Ashley) is a great driver, and when his team gets their car going down the track, they’re very tough to beat. We just need to win. We’ll go to Las Vegas, and we have to keep going rounds and hopefully get a couple wins.

“I always seem to drive better when my back’s up against the wall, I feel like I have something to prove and I’m chasing someone down and driving aggressively. I seem like I’m more in my element when I’m out there driving aggressively and knowing exactly what I have to do to win. I feel like sometimes, when I got in the lead in the past, I got a little bit conservative and more of ‘don’t want to make mistakes and just keep status quo.’ I drive better when I drive with intent and aggression.”

Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) each won the fall race in Las Vegas last year. The will be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, and is the 19th of 20 races during the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

Kalitta has taken command in the playoffs, advancing to the finals at the first four Countdown to the Championship events. He won in Dallas and has an opportunity to clinch his second world championship this weekend in Vegas, should Justin Ashley and Langdon falter early.

Ashley is currently 141 points back of first, while Landgon is 159 points back. Kalitta needs to hold a 192-point lead or more at the end of the weekend to clinch the world title, something Langdon would like to try and prevent. A win would assure the title race would at least head to Pomona, but it won’t be easy as Langdon will also have to face off with the likes of Tony Stewart, who won in Las Vegas in the spring, reigning world champ Antron Brown, Clay Millican and Force, the defending event winner who is making her final appearance in Las Vegas.

But with Langdon’s teammate in command in the title chase, the veteran is focused only on what he can control.

“For us to have a shot, Doug will have to kind of fall pretty badly at the last couple of races, but at the end of the day, we’re definitely not wishing anything bad on Doug,” Langdon said. “We’re just going to go to Las Vegas to do the best we can and try to have an opportunity in Pomona.

“If we’re not going to win the championship, we want Doug to win. It’s a little bit out of our control at this point because Doug has a pretty good lead. Ideally, we want to have a shot at the championship. If we don’t have that, then finishing one-two is the next-best thing. That would be a really good feat for the team as a whole.”

Funny Car’s Prock, the reigning world champ, is also in prime position following his Dallas win. He’ll head to Vegas with hopes of a second straight title, holding a 112-point lead over Matt Hagan. Others to watch include Jack Beckman, Ron Capps and Daniel Wilkerson.

It’s a two-horse race in Pro Stock, as Dallas Glenn leads KB Titan Racing teammate Greg Anderson by 60 points. The duo has dominated in 2025 and will look to finish strong against a field that features Matt Hartford, Aaron Stanfield and Erica Enders, who has an incredible 10 wins in Las Vegas.

Richard Gadson moved a step closer to his first world title after winning in Dallas. He leads teammate and back-to-back world champ Gaige Herrera by 72 points and Matt Smith by 105 points heading towards the stretch run.

The Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which includes some of the sport’s top drivers, and the Summit Racing Series ET Finals, where world champions will be crowned. The event also serves as the season finale in the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series.

Fans will be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, music and more. Vegas race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each driver racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners.

As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, which includes interactive displays, merchandise, food, and fun.

NHRA Mission Food Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 12:30 and 3 p.m. PT on Friday, Oct. 31, and the final two rounds on Saturday, Nov. 1 at 12 and 2:30 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, Nov. 2. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday and then eliminations coverage starting at 5 p.m. ET.

To purchase tickets to the Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, please call 800-644-4444 or visit www.lvms.com. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com. For more information on the Dodge brand, visit Dodge.com.

About Dodge

For 111 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their influence continues today as Dodge, America’s performance brand, shifts into high gear with a lineup that delivers unrivaled performance in each of its segments.

The new, next-generation Dodge Charger multi-energy lineup is led by the 670-horsepower Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack – the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car. For 2026, the all-new 550-horsepower Dodge Charger Scat Pack, powered by the 3.0L Twin Turbo SIXPACK H.O. engine, expands the Charger lineup, powered by the most powerful Hurricane engine in production.

Dodge also keeps its foot on the pedal as a pure performance brand with the 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful gas engine SUV ever, and best-in-class standard performance in the compact-utility vehicle segment with the Dodge Hornet.

For more information on the Dodge brand, visit Dodge.com.

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.

Keeping the Ferrari 360 on Track: Maintenance Tips for Timeless Performance

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

Few cars have managed to capture the balance between raw emotion and precise engineering like the Ferrari 360. Introduced at the turn of the millennium, it represented a new era for Maranello — lighter, sharper, and more responsive than its predecessors. Even today, two decades later, the 360 remains a favorite among collectors and drivers alike. But preserving that unmistakable sound and feel requires more than admiration; it takes a commitment to maintenance, attention to detail, and quality.

Understanding what keeps a Ferrari 360 in peak condition

Every Ferrari 360 tells a story. For some, it’s a weekend drive through winding roads; for others, it’s a track-day machine that still delivers goosebumps with every shift. Regardless of how it’s driven, the secret to longevity lies in precision maintenance. The mid-mounted V8 is a masterpiece, but it demands regular oil changes, belt inspections, and cooling system care to keep temperatures and tolerances in check.

Small components will often make the biggest difference. Using high-quality materials and replacements — such as Ferrari 360 parts from JH Parts — ensures that the engine and chassis continue to perform as intended. Genuine parts not only help retain the car’s originality but also maintain the razor-sharp responsiveness that defines the 360’s character.

Common wear points every Ferrari 360 owner should check

Despite its reputation for reliability among older Ferraris, the 360 has a few known stress points. Clutch wear is one of the most common, especially on early models with the F1 transmission. Regular inspections can prevent sudden failure and expensive repairs. The timing belt, a critical component in the V8’s rhythm, should never be overlooked — replacing it roughly every three to five years keeps the engine in sync and prevents catastrophic damage.

Motor mounts, suspension bushings, and shock absorbers are also prone to aging. Because the 360’s aluminum chassis transmits a lot of feedback, even small wear can affect handling precision. Electronic systems, particularly the traction control and brake sensors, should be tested periodically to ensure the car’s performance systems remain seamless. Preventive maintenance is key — catching issues early preserves both driving pleasure and resale value.

The importance of precision and timing

The Ferrari 360 rewards those who respect its rhythm. Like a finely tuned instrument, it responds best when maintained with precision. Timing belt replacements, brake fluid changes, and gearbox servicing aren’t just routine — they’re rituals that keep the symphony alive.

Think of it as the pit strategy of motorsport: every second counts, and every component has a role to play. When the maintenance schedule is followed diligently, the 360 transforms from a fragile collectible into a dependable performance machine, capable of exhilarating runs without worry. Owners who take a disciplined approach often find their cars not only last longer but also deliver a more connected and confident driving experience.

Balancing originality with performance upgrades

One of the ongoing debates in the Ferrari community is whether to keep the 360 completely stock or to embrace subtle upgrades. In reality, both paths can coexist. Upgraded suspension components can enhance ride quality without compromising authenticity. Stainless steel exhausts can preserve that unmistakable Ferrari note while improving airflow and durability.

What matters most is balance. The 360’s design and dynamics were meticulously engineered, so changes should complement, not overpower, the original setup. The best examples combine factory elegance with discreet enhancements that make the car feel sharper and more responsive — just as Enzo Ferrari would have intended.

Finding the right parts for lasting performance

As these cars age, sourcing the right components becomes increasingly important. The market for Ferrari 360 parts has matured, and dedicated suppliers now ensure that authenticity and precision remain within reach. Using genuine or OEM-spec materials guarantees that each bolt and bearing meets Ferrari’s demanding standards.

Today, enthusiasts can buy Ferrari parts online with the same confidence that professional workshops once reserved for factory channels. Whether it’s a timing belt kit, a new clutch assembly, or detailed interior trim, maintaining the car’s soul starts with quality components. For a vehicle so dependent on precision, cutting corners simply isn’t an option.

Keeping the legend alive

Owning a Ferrari 360 is about more than driving — it’s about stewardship. Each owner becomes part of a legacy that blends design, performance, and emotion into something few cars ever achieve. Routine maintenance, authentic parts, and careful upgrades ensure that this icon continues to perform not just as a classic, but as a living, breathing expression of Italian engineering excellence.

The Ferrari 360 isn’t just a car that deserves to be preserved; it’s one that deserves to be driven. With the right care and attention, it remains exactly what it was built to be: timeless, thrilling, and always ready for the next corner.

What Makes Electric Dirt Bikes Fast but Safe?

By
SM
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Electric bikes have transformed how we roam the outdoors. From quiet wood trails to punishing mountain tracks, they have ushered in fresh ways to experience the great outdoors without noise or fumes. Every model is brimming with power and safety, but it’s the electric dirt bike that stands out amongst them all. A lot of riders: How can something so fast also be tranquil? Join us as we dive into the performance, control, and protection that keep these machines a staple for weekend warriors or city commuters.

The New Proficiency of the Electric Dirt Bikes

Dirt biking was always synonymous with loud engines, petrol fumes and cumbersome gear. Well, the definition of adventure has now changed courtesy of technology and the electric dirt bike. These bikes are fast, tidy and nimble. People who previously did not cycle — of all sizes, but especially those looking for an electric bike as an adult — are discovering the pleasure of being on a trail without worrying they are adding to air pollution, and needing to schedule visits from service people.

It looks good, has instant torque and is fair on speed. With just a twist of the throttle, you’ll be able to cruise with minimal effort and move at speeds no cyclist could dream of in just moments. But with speed also comes smarts, and good design that keeps the riders safe and in control.

Speed Is Important, but Not as Important as Safety

You know, one of the myths people have is electric bikes are dangerous because you don’t see or hear them: they travel too fast, he added. In fact, the speed control would be another subdividing advantage. All the new dirty bikes have stabilizing things built in, power cutting, and are stable on rough roads.

That’s due to good suspension, low center of gravity and good brakes. These parts help to prevent slipping or loss of control even entering mud, rocks and such a corner. Safety does not have to do just with the slow speeds as it has everything to do with the relationship between the person and the machine.

Technology In Safety and Control

Hi-Tech engineering gives riders freedom and protection. Sensors and smart systems continuously measure torque, traction, and acceleration. In any event, whether you are an adult using these systems to commute or for trail rides on your electric bike, such performance is exactly what you need in order to feel safe and secure.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes Deliver a safety-assured stopping power and battery management system (BMS) ensures long and enable the minimization of overheating. LED lights, wide handlebars and fat tires also help with visibility and grip. All these improvements make the electric bikes run on rough and smooth roads.

The Suspension and Tires

A lot of that safety again comes down to the purely mechanical connection between rider and road. The electric dirt bikes have fat or knobby tires, they perform well in different weather conditions. They also have shock-absorbing suspension that makes them less vibratory and more able to drive on rocky surfaces.

HappyRun G100 E Bike 2000W Dual Battery Long Range

HappyRun G100 E Bike

So let’s talk about power and security in one sentence – the HappyRun G100 Electric Bike with 2000W Dual Battery Long Range is just one of many! This is a performance-designed, reliable model – it provides the best speed, ideal control and extreme robustness.

This is an electric dirt bike with two motors totaling 2000W that gives you fast acceleration. Its maximum speed is 38 mph and that means riders will feel the thrill of fast riding, the bike tillers utilizing the best frame design. The 2 battery system gives a better performance range – excellent for long trips where charging the batteries after every trip is not required.

It’s fat tires to be ridden on a variety of terrains including dirt, sand, snow and just cruising the neighborhood. Responsive front and back hydraulic disc brakes deliver crisp stopping power, while full suspension soaks up bumps and keeps the ride steady.

The G100 is most for those looking for a long-range comfort bike with some good old fashioned adventure. It fast runs are made of (and durable to meet all) safe Requirements — even in the forest paths go it.

Why Electric Bikes are a great idea for adults

Electric bike for adults are an alternative to cars or mopeds, which adults tend to prefer because they can move faster. They’re ideal for city commutes that also can be taken out on a weekend trial. They use powerful motors with industry leading protection and are safe to find as part of your daily ride, out in the trails or on any training routine.

It saves cash, and leaves less of an environmental footprint. You will also be cutting down on emissions and noise by riding an electric dirt bike instead of a gas model, but you’ll still get that hit of adrenaline too.

The Future of Environmentally Conscious Riding

Contemporary riders are concerned about sustainability and less about performance. Electric bikes fit into this mentality- they are energy efficient, quiet and low maintenance. With the constant development of battery and motor technologies, we will witness much faster bikes which will be safer and smarter as well.

The manufacturers are currently concentrating on anti-theft GPS, advanced BMS safety, and real-time diagnostics digital dashboards. It translates to the riders being able to monitor speed, position, and battery status through only one screen- making the riders safer without losing the thrill.

Conclusions

The history of the electric dirt bike demonstrates the way in which technology has developed in terms of integrating thrill and safety. Electric bikes such as the HappyRun G100 Electric Bike with 2000W Dual Battery Long Range show that the riders do not need to decide between speed and security, but instead they can have both.

The modern electric bikes are safe, clean and exciting to ride whether you are an off-road adventurer or a commuter in the city. The trick is to get to know your bike, to be careful of the range that it has and to be free with its abilities. When you ride you are not only going faster, you are going even smarter.

Creating a Budget That Works for You

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

Stop Trying to Force Someone Else’s Budget

Let’s face it—most budgeting advice feels like it is written for someone else. The kind of person who uses color-coded spreadsheets for fun or never forgets to log a $2 coffee. If that is not you, you are not doing it wrong. You just need a different approach.

A budget does not have to be rigid, complex, or stressful. In fact, the most effective budgets are the ones that flex with your life. Whether you are earning steady income, managing unpredictable freelance gigs, or navigating financial recovery like credit card debt relief, the goal is to create a plan that works with your reality—not against it.

Start by Knowing What Comes In and Goes Out

Before you can tell your money what to do, you need to understand where it currently goes. This means tracking your income and expenses—but not in a complicated way. Keep it simple. Write down how much you take home each month and then track your spending for 30 days. Apps like Mint or PocketGuard can help, but a basic notebook or notes app works too.

Look at your spending patterns. Where does most of your money go? What surprised you? Identifying these habits is key to building a budget that fits your actual lifestyle.

Name Your Financial Priorities

Everyone has different financial goals, and that’s where budgeting gets personal. Are you trying to save for a down payment? Get out of debt? Build an emergency fund? Maybe you want to travel, invest, or start your own business.

Whatever it is, write it down. Having clear, realistic goals gives your budget purpose. It also makes saying “no” to things easier when you’re saying “yes” to something bigger.

If you are not sure where to start, check out the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s goal-setting worksheet. It is a simple way to map out what matters most.

Pick a Budgeting Style That Fits You

Here is where many people get stuck—they think there is only one right way to budget. But there are several systems, and the “best” one is the one you will actually use. A few popular methods include:

Zero-Based Budgeting: Every dollar gets assigned a job, from bills to savings to fun money. Great for people who like structure and details.

50/30/20 Rule: Allocate 50 percent of income to needs, 30 percent to wants, and 20 percent to savings or debt repayment. Good for simplicity and balance.

Pay-Yourself-First Method: Prioritize savings and debt repayment first, then use the rest for bills and spending. This works well for building long-term wealth.

You can also mix and match or modify a method to fit your situation. The point is not to follow rules—it’s to gain control.

Make Room for Real Life

Budgets fail when they are too tight or unrealistic. Life will throw curveballs, and if your plan cannot flex, you will ditch it fast.

Build in buffer zones for unexpected expenses. Give yourself permission to spend on small joys. Maybe you do not need to eliminate takeout—just cut back to once a week. A realistic budget does not punish you. It supports you.

Automate When Possible

One of the easiest ways to stick to your budget is to automate what you can. Set up automatic transfers to savings. Schedule bill payments. Use autopay for recurring expenses. This reduces the chance of late fees and helps ensure your money goes where it is supposed to go.

Automation also reduces the number of decisions you have to make each month, which lowers financial stress and increases consistency.

Check In and Adjust Often

Your budget is not set in stone. Life changes, and your budget should too. Review it monthly. Ask yourself what worked, what did not, and what needs tweaking.

Did you overspend on groceries? Underestimate your utility bill? Forget to budget for your cousin’s wedding gift? These are not failures. They are feedback.

Adjust, adapt, and move forward. This flexibility is what makes a budget sustainable over time.

Get Comfortable with Progress, Not Perfection

Budgeting is a practice. You will mess up. You will forget things. Some months will feel tight, others easier. That is normal.

What matters is that you keep showing up. Even if you are only halfway sticking to your plan, you are still doing more than if you had no plan at all.

Remember, building a budget is not just about cutting back. It is about creating space for what matters—whether that is getting out of debt, saving for the future, or simply feeling less stressed about money.

And if you want to dive deeper into better money habits, check out the National Endowment for Financial Education. They offer free resources to help you build confidence with your finances.

Final Thought

Creating a budget that works for you is not about becoming someone you are not. It is about being honest with yourself, setting up a system that fits your life, and making steady progress toward your goals. Forget perfection. Focus on intention. And let your budget grow with you.

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