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Best Toyota Prado Seat Covers for Comfort and Interior Protection

By
SM
-

Key Highlights

  • Toyota Prado seat covers help guard against spills, stains, daily use, and UV exposure across Australia.
  • A precise fit matters because custom seat covers sit neatly and support comfort in front seats and rear seats.
  • Waterproof seat covers in neoprene and heavy-duty canvas options suit touring, work, and family use.
  • Airbag safe design and child seat anchoring access give extra peace of mind.
  • Durable materials can help keep seats in pristine condition and support resale value.
  • Check warranty and shipping details before you choose.

Introduction

Your Prado works hard, so your seats do too. The best Toyota Prado seat covers give you comfort, interior protection, and durability for daily use in Australia, whether you drive to work, head off-road, or load up the kids after sport. That matters when mud, moisture, food spills, and direct sunlight all hit the cabin. If you want covers that look right and last through normal use, the details of material, fit, and safety features make a real difference.

Why Invest in Toyota Prado Seat Covers for the Australian Lifestyle

seat

Life in Australia is tough on vehicle interiors. Daily use, direct sunlight, and UV rays can wear factory seats faster than many owners expect, especially if your Prado is used for family trips, touring, or work.

That is why Toyota Prado seat covers are more than an accessory. They help protect against spills and stains, support resale value, and keep the cabin looking cleaner for longer. The next two sections break down where that protection really shows up.

Everyday Protection Against Spills, Stains, and Sun Damage

Yes, they do. Toyota Prado seat covers protect seats from spills and stains effectively when you choose the right material and a precise fit. That is especially useful for daily use, where food, wet clothes, dust, and sunscreen can quickly mark factory trim.

Think about a common weekend. You finish a beach trip, the kids climb in, and moisture and sand end up on the seats. A cover creates a barrier that helps keep the original trim in more pristine condition and reduces wear from UV exposure and sun damage.

  • Neoprene seat covers offer water-resistant protection and a comfortable feel.
  • Canvas seat covers suit rougher jobs where dirt and gear are part of the routine.
  • A form-fitting design helps stop bunching that can leave exposed areas.

Maintaining Comfort and Resale Value in Harsh Environments

Seat covers are not only about blocking mess. In harsh environments across Australia, they also help maintain comfort over months of use. Foam-backed options can feel better on longer drives, which matters if your Prado is used for touring or long work days.

There is also the resale value angle. Seats that stay cleaner and show less wear can make the whole cabin look better when it is time to sell or trade. That gives you one less thing to worry about later.

A genuine benefit of model-specific covers over generic ones is fit. A tailored set follows the seat shape more closely, looks tidier, and gives more peace of mind in normal use without loose fabric moving around.

Most Durable Materials for Toyota Prado Seat Covers

seats

The two material types that stand out for Toyota Prado seat covers are neoprene seat covers and canvas seat covers. Both are built for durability, but they suit different jobs. Neoprene is water-resistant and comfortable, while canvas is aimed at heavier wear.

For buyers comparing options after months of use, that difference matters. Foam backing can improve comfort, and checking the warranty is smart if you want coverage for defects. Once you know the material, the next step is matching it to how your Prado is really used.

Real-World Example: Heavy-Duty Materials for Off-Road Adventures

Picture a Prado used for touring tracks one week, and school runs the next. On corrugated roads, your suspension takes the hit, but your seats still face dust, moisture, and constant movement. That is where heavy-duty material choice becomes practical, not cosmetic.

Razorback 4×4 lists GP4 Neoprene as water-resistant with a comfy rubber backing and form-fitting design. Its XP7 Heavy-Duty Canvas is designed for worksites and tough 4×4 tracks, with foam-backed comfort. Free shipping Australia-wide also helps when ordering online.

Top Choices for Toyota Prado Seat Covers by Model and Fit

Fit should drive your choice first. A precise fit helps custom seat covers sit properly around seat shapes, headrests, and access points. For Prado owners, that becomes important when comparing the Prado 150 Series with newer or older layouts.

If you are choosing a 7-seater or looking at waterproof protection, focus on model-specific covers, airbag compatibility, and practical details like foam backing and warranty. The next section gives a simpler way to judge what is right for your Prado.

Custom and Waterproof Seat Cover Solutions for the Prado 150 Series and Older Models

Yes, it is possible to find custom-fit, waterproof options for the Prado 150 Series and older models. The compiled range includes the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 150 Pre-Facelift from November 2009 to June 2021, which answers a common question from owners of older models like the 2009 version.

When choosing the right seat covers for a Prado 150 Series 7-seater, check the fitment details first. Then look at how the cover works with safety features and daily use. A neat fit is usually better than a one-size-fits-most product.

  • Confirm access for child seat anchoring before you buy.
  • Choose airbag safe designs where side airbags are fitted.
  • Pick neoprene for water resistance or canvas for heavier wear.

If you own several vehicles, you may also compare 4WD seat covers for other models, such as Toyota Hilux seat covers, Ford Ranger Wildtrak seat covers, Isuzu D-Max seat covers, and Triton car seat covers, but your Prado still needs its own model-specific fit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in high-quality Toyota Prado seat covers not only enhances your comfort but also safeguards your vehicle’s interior against the rigours of the Australian lifestyle. With options tailored for different models and conditions, you can find the perfect fit that offers both durability and style. By choosing the right materials, you ensure that your seat covers withstand spills, stains, and sun damage, essentially prolonging the life of your seats while maintaining their resale value. Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting seat covers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there seat covers that will fit my older Toyota Prado?

Yes. Custom seat covers are available for older models, including the Prado 150 Pre-Facelift from November 2009 to June 2021. The key is a precise fit matched to your year and seat layout. Before ordering, check warranty terms and shipping details for your location in Australia.

Do seat covers interfere with airbag deployment or child seat anchoring?

They should not if you choose covers designed with those safety features in mind. Look for airbag-safe fitment and confirm access to child seat anchoring points. That gives better peace of mind. If anything seems poorly made or misaligned, check for defects before installing and using it.

How do I clean and maintain Toyota Prado seat covers for longevity?

Keep them clean with regular wipe-downs and remove dirt before it settles in. For neoprene, quick cleaning after wet or dirty trips helps maintain comfort and appearance over months of use. Simple maintenance also helps keep the seats underneath in pristine condition for longer.

How Motorcycle Transport Interstate Works in Australia

By
SM
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Key Highlights

  • Interstate motorcycle transport in Australia usually starts with a quote, booking, and simple bike preparation.
  • A reliable service uses specialist equipment for secure transport and steady loading.
  • Professional motorcycle transport often includes depot or home delivery options across major routes.
  • Clear pricing depends on distance, vehicle details, and any added storage needs.
  • With utmost care, carriers secure the front tire and strap the rear for safer transit.
  • Tracking updates can give you peace of mind during the trip.

Introduction

If you are trying to understand motorcycle transport interstate in Australia, the process is usually simpler than many riders expect. Most motorcycle transport services follow a clear path: request a quote, confirm the booking, prepare the bike, track the shipment, and accept delivery at home or a depot. That straightforward system matters when your motorbike is traveling long distances. Knowing how it works gives you more peace of mind and helps you avoid last-minute issues before moving your bike.

Understanding Motorcycle Transport Interstate in Australia

Motorcycle transport interstate means moving a motorbike from one state to another using specialist freight equipment and trained drivers. In Australia, this is a dedicated service, not an afterthought added onto general removalists or standard car transport.

What makes the process work well is professionalism. Carriers with years of experience rely on tested systems, careful handling, and route coverage between cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, and Darwin. That focus on excellence is what keeps a bike stable during transit.

What Is Interstate Motorcycle Transport and When Is It Needed?

Interstate motorcycle transport moves your bike across state lines using equipment built specifically for motorcycles. This ensures secure transport over long distances, with setups that hold the front tire and strap down the rear to minimize movement.

This service is useful when riding isn’t practical—such as during a relocation, after buying from another city, or sending a bike to a dealership. It’s also ideal for routes that are too long or inconvenient.

For example, if you buy a Honda on the Sunshine Coast and need it delivered to Melbourne, interstate motorcycle transport saves time and keeps your bike safe during transit.

Common Reasons for Moving Motorcycles Between States

People choose bike transport for convenience, distance, and safety. Professional transport is often better for valuable, new, or relocated bikes, especially on routes between the East Coast and Western Australia.

Common reasons include:

  • Moving house and sending a motorbike with other vehicles.
  • Buying from an out-of-state dealership (e.g., a Honda on the Sunshine Coast).
  • Delivering collector, prestige, or race bikes needing extra care.
  • Use depot storage when immediate pickup isn’t possible.

Timing is another factor. If your schedule doesn’t allow for a long ride, interstate delivery streamlines the process and eliminates hassle.

Types of Motorcycle Transport Services Available

Not all motorcycle transport services work the same way, even when the route is similar. The main differences usually come down to how the bike is carried and where it is collected or delivered. Those choices affect convenience, protection, and sometimes pricing.

You may be booking between capital cities or sending a bike to regional areas, so it helps to know the service type first. Once you understand the options, it becomes easier to compare secure transport features and ask for clear pricing that matches your trip.

Open vs Enclosed Motorcycle Carriers Explained

Enclosed transport is the safest option for extra protection, shielding your motorcycle from exposure and keeping it in pristine condition. While open carriers are common in wider freight networks, enclosed transport minimizes risk from road debris and external conditions—ideal for high-value bikes.

OptionWhat to know
Open carrierExposed to road debris and outside conditions during transit.
Enclosed transportOffers better protection for your motorcycle during shipment.
Fully enclosed truckPreferred for prestige, collector, or race bikes needing special care.

Door-to-Door and Depot-to-Depot Delivery Options

Yes, interstate door-to-door motorcycle transport is available in Australia, along with depot-to-depot delivery. Door-to-door brings the bike directly to your home or address, while depot-to-depot requires you to drop off and pick up from a depot.

Each option suits different needs:

  • Door-to-door is more convenient and saves time.
  • Depot-to-depot is useful if depots are easier to access.
  • Depot delivery is helpful for regional locations.
  • Some depots offer storage from $50 per day plus GST.

For example, a Sydney buyer who isn’t home on delivery day can use depot-to-depot for added flexibility and short-term storage.

How the Motorcycle Transport Process Works Step-by-Step

Most interstate bookings follow the same core process, which makes planning easier. You request a quote, confirm the transport, prepare the bike using the carrier’s guidelines, track the shipment, and then receive the motorcycle at the selected address or depot.

What matters is how that process is handled. Professionalism shows up in careful loading, the use of specialist supports and straps, and clear communication from booking through delivery. The next two sections break down the quote stage and the pickup-to-drop-off process.

Getting a Personalized Quote and Booking Your Transport

Booking begins with a personalized quote, as pricing depends on the bike, distance, and your specific needs—there’s no fixed per-kilometer rate. Clear pricing upfront is essential.

When requesting a quote, be prepared to confirm:

  • Pickup and drop-off locations
  • Type of motorcycle
  • Need for storage (starting at $50/day plus GST)

Good customer service should make this process easy. After accepting the quote, you confirm your booking and follow the preparation instructions. For example, if you’re moving from Brisbane to Adelaide and require short-term depot storage, that service should be included in your quote before transport starts.

Typical Pick-Up, Transit, and Drop-Off Procedures

After booking, your bike is prepared and picked up from your address or a depot. During pickup, specialist equipment cradles the front tire and secures the rear with straps, protecting sensitive parts like forks and struts.

You can track your bike’s journey with real-time updates—ideal for long interstate routes like Melbourne to Perth or Darwin to Victoria.

The process typically includes:

  • Pickup from home, showroom, or depot
  • Careful loading with specialized equipment
  • In-transit tracking updates
  • Delivery to your chosen address or authorized depot

At delivery, the bike is handled with the same care as at pickup. If you’re not available, depot storage is an option until you’re ready to receive it.

Preparing Your Motorcycle for Long-Distance Transport

Preparation is one of the easiest ways to protect your bike before shipping. Even when a carrier uses specialist equipment, you still want a clear record of the motorcycle’s condition before it leaves. That matters for sports bikes, cruisers, scooters, and custom builds alike.

The basics are simple: check the bike, document its condition, and follow the carrier’s rules on fuel, battery, and accessories. Paying attention to fairings or panniers can also help avoid preventable issues before transit begins.

Cleaning, Inspecting, and Documenting Bike Condition

Start by cleaning the motorcycle so its condition is easy to inspect. Dirt can hide marks, chips, or small scratches, which makes records less useful. Once the bike is clean, walk around it slowly and check visible areas carefully.

Make sure you document:

  • Clear photos from multiple angles.
  • Any existing marks on fairings, wheels, or bodywork.
  • Important details linked to registration or model identification.

This step is especially useful for custom builds and sports bikes, where small cosmetic details matter more. A practical example is photographing both sides, the front, the rear, and close-ups of any pre-existing blemishes. If there is ever a question at drop-off, you have a simple visual record of the bike before transport.

Required Fuel, Battery, and Accessory Preparations

Before handover, follow the preparation guidance provided by the carrier. The compiled information confirms that customers are asked to prepare the vehicle according to set guidelines. That is the best point to confirm fuel level, battery expectations, and any rules around loose accessories.

Pay close attention to:

  • Fuel requirements given by the transporter.
  • Battery instructions before pickup.
  • Removable accessories, such as panniers or add-ons on a cruiser.

This matters because accessories can shift or complicate handling if they are left unsecured. For example, if your cruiser has detachable luggage, confirm whether it should stay fitted or be removed before loading. Small preparation steps like this can make pickup smoother and reduce avoidable delays on transport day.

truck

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding how motorcycle transport interstate works in Australia is essential for any motorcycle owner considering a move. It’s important to grasp the various services available, from open and enclosed carriers to door-to-door delivery options, ensuring your bike is safeguarded during transit. Preparing your motorcycle adequately will not only facilitate a smoother transport experience but will also help maintain its condition. Remember to document and inspect your bike before transport, as this can be invaluable should you face any issues. If you’re ready to get started, don’t hesitate to reach out for a personalized quote to make your motorcycle transport hassle-free!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Curiosity often surrounds the practicalities of motorcycle transport interstate in Australia. To address common inquiries, many riders wonder about the types of motorcycles that can be transported. Most services cater to a wide range of bikes, from cruisers to sports bikes, ensuring secure transport with full insurance coverage. Additionally, riders frequently ask about transit duration; typically, distances between cities like Brisbane and Melbourne may take several days. Ultimately, reliable services, transparent pricing, and commitment to care ensure peace of mind during the entire journey.

How long does it take to transport a motorcycle interstate in Australia?

Transport time depends on the route, distance, and delivery method. Popular routes on the east coast may move differently from long distances, such as Melbourne to Perth,h or shipments involving regional areas. The more kilometres involved, the more important it is to ask for an estimated schedule at the quote stage.

Is my motorcycle insured during interstate transport?

The compiled information does not confirm transit insurance or full insurance coverage details, so you should ask directly before booking. What it does show is a strong focus on utmost care, specialist equipment, and secure transport during the entire journey, which are still important parts of reducing risk.

How do I choose a reliable interstate motorcycle transport company?

Look for a good carrier with years of experience, specialist motorcycle equipment, route coverage, and clear preparation steps. A reliable service should also offer professional motorcycle transport, transparent quoting, and responsive customer service. If tracking and depot options matter to you, confirm those before you book.

Why Every Millisecond Needs a Trusted Timestamp

By
SM
-

A timestamp looks like a minor technical detail until two events occur almost together. A promotion expires as an account activates it, a roulette wager reaches the server near the closing signal, or two race cars arrive at the stripe with barely visible separation.

The official order cannot depend on how quickly a screen refreshes. Casinos and race-control teams need a central clock, identifiable events and records that can be checked after the action has finished.

Casino Promotions Run on Recorded Time

A guide to no deposit bonus codes at free-spins-professor.com organises active offers with their stated eligibility and conditions. Behind each promotion, the casino records when it became available, when an account claimed it and when its validity period ends.

Free Spins Professor presents bonus information at the comparison layer, while the operator controls activation and account processing. A promotion at a no deposit bonus casino may have several relevant timestamps rather than one general expiry date.

The system can record:

  • publication of the offer;
  • account registration;
  • activation of the code;
  • crediting of free spins or bonus funds;
  • start and end of the wagering period;
  • completion of the qualifying conditions;
  • expiry of any unused promotional balance.

Clear timing prevents an offer displayed earlier in the day from being applied after it has closed. Published no deposit bonus codes also need version control when a campaign changes its value, eligible games or end date.

Every Casino Round Receives Its Own Clock

A slot request normally carries an account session, game identifier, stake, currency and unique round ID. The server adds a timestamp when it accepts the request. The visible animation can start slightly later, but the accepted record determines whether the round exists.

At an australia no deposit bonus casino, this record can also show whether a qualifying spin used promotional funds or the cash balance. That distinction matters because a no deposit bonus may follow separate wagering and game-contribution rules.

Live games require several timed stages:

Recorded eventWhy its time matters
Betting window opensEstablishes when wagers may begin
Wager reaches the serverConfirms whether it arrived in time
Betting window closesRejects later requests
Result is confirmedIdentifies the completed round
Balance is settledRecords the financial outcome

A no deposit bonus casino still processes an accepted wager through the game server even when no deposit funded the initial promotion. Meanwhile, an online no deposit bonus casino links each resulting balance movement with the relevant account and campaign record.

Gaming Laboratories International requires wager histories to include the time a wager was placed, its amount, the final outcome and the balance after settlement. These details appear in the GLI-19 technical standard, providing an audit trail when the device and server appear to disagree.

Racing Transponders Mark the Car’s Passage

NASCAR cars carry transponders that emit an identifying signal. Detection loops embedded at points around the circuit pick up that signal and send the recorded passage to timing and scoring.

The start-finish line provides the most familiar timestamp, although it is only one measurement point. Additional loops help officials and teams track:

  • lap completion;
  • running order around the circuit;
  • pit-road entry;
  • individual pit segments;
  • pit-road exit;
  • gaps between cars;
  • positions during caution periods.

The system gives every passing car an identity and a time. Timing software can then arrange those records into lap charts, intervals and provisional positions without relying on a person watching dozens of cars cross the stripe.

NASCAR has explained that the loop signals travel back to Race Control, where timing and scoring officials monitor the data alongside camera feeds and other information. The timestamp establishes a measurable event; officials interpret it under the sporting rules.

Pit Road Needs More Than a Stopwatch

A complete pit stop includes time spent approaching the box, standing still and returning to racing speed. Segment timing allows NASCAR to monitor pit-road speed across defined sections instead of relying on one average for the entire lane.

Teams also divide the stop into smaller pieces. They examine the time required to enter the stall, lift the car, change tyres, add fuel and release the driver. Two stops with an identical total can hide different strengths: one crew may complete service faster but lose time while the car enters the box.

These timestamps support decisions during the race. A crew chief can determine whether a slow stop came through traffic, equipment trouble or the physical service. The number gains meaning because it belongs to a specific car, location and stage of the stop.

The Camera Settles What the Transponder Cannot

A transponder sits at a defined point inside the car rather than at its leading edge. In an extremely close finish, its timestamp may not establish which nose crossed the line first.

The 2024 NASCAR Cup race at Kansas Speedway provided a sharp example. Kyle Larson and Chris Buescher reached the finish almost together. Timing and scoring initially placed Buescher ahead because the separation fell inside the transponder system’s margin of error. Examination of the high-speed finish-line image gave Larson the victory by 0.001 seconds, then the closest recorded finish in Cup Series history.

That decision did not make electronic timing useless. The loops supplied the provisional order and alerted officials to a finish requiring closer examination. The camera then answered the specific question the transponder could not: which car’s leading edge reached the vertical plane first.

NASCAR at Iowa Speedway Weekend Schedule

By
SM Staff
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The NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series head to Iowa Speedway. The O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Hy-Vee Perks 205 will begin at 6 p.m. ET on the CW Network. On Sunday, the Cup Series Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol will begin at 2:30 p.m. ET on the USA Network.

Cup Series Notes for Iowa Speedway:

Only four races remain before the Chase: Iowa (7/8-mile short track), Richmond (¾-mile short track), New Hampshire (1-mile flat oval) and Daytona (2.5-mile high-banked drafting track). Four drivers have clinched Chase spots: Denny Hamlin, Tyler Reddick, Ryan Blaney and Ty Gibbs.

The driver who led the most laps won both Iowa races: Ryan Blaney in 2024 and William Byron in 2025 led the most laps and won those races. Blaney has the best average position in both races at 3.9, and Byron has the best average finish of 1.5.

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Notes for Iowa Speedway:

This weekend’s race will be the third O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Iowa since the series returned in 2024, and Sam Mayer has won both races since its return.

Iowa is the third of five short tracks this season, and the last six short-track races have been won by six different drivers, with JR Motorsports winning both short-track races so far this season.

Ross Chastain will return to JR Motorsports No. 9 for his 10th start of the season. Carson Brown will drive Jordan Anderson Racing No. 32 in his series debut, and Derek Lemke will drive DGM Racing No. 91 in his series debut.

Justin Allgaier, Jesse Love, Carson Kvapil, Sheldon Creed, Corey Day, Brandon Jones and Austin Hill clinched Chase spots, with five spots remaining open, with only nine drivers still in contention for those spots.

The Weekend Schedule for Iowa Speedway:

Related: The Iowa Corn 350 at Iowa Speedway Outlook and Picks

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM: AMS PRACTICE (TIMED – 45 MINUTES)
3:30 PM – 3:50 PM: AMS QUALIFYING (IMPOUND) (TIMED – ALL ENTRIES)
5:35 PM: AMS DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS
6:00 PM: AMS RACE (150 LAPS, 131.25 MILES)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8
10:30 AM – 11:20 AM: NOAPS PRACTICE
11:35 AM – 12:30 PM: NOAPS QUALIFYING
1:05 PM – 1:55 PM: NCS PRACTICE (COMBINED GROUP 1 & 2 (IMPOUND))
2:10 PM – 3:00 PM: NCS QUALIFYING (IMPOUND)
3:25 PM: NOAPS DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS
4:00 PM: NOAPS RACE (STAGES 60/120/250 LAPS = 218.75 MILES – CW NETWORK

SUNDAY, AUGUST 9
1:50 PM: NCS DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS
2:30 PM: NCS RACE (STAGES 70/210/350 LAPS = 306.25 MILES) – USA NETWORK
*All times are Eastern. NASCAR Cup Series (NCS), NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS), NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS), ARCA Menards Series (AMS)

Hendrick Motorsports Media Advance: Iowa

By
Official Release
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Iowa Speedway
Sunday, Aug. 9
0.875-Mile Oval
3:30 p.m. ET
Location: Newton, Iowa
TV: Fox
Event: NASCAR Cup Series (Race 23 of 36)
RADIO: SiriusXM

5 KYLE LARSON
Age: 34 (July 31, 1992)
Hometown: Elk Grove, California
Last Race: 39th (Indianapolis)
Crew Chief: Cliff Daniels
Standings: 8th

No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

  • Kyle Larson celebrated his 34th birthday on July 31 during the NASCAR off week.
  • Larson has led 80 laps across two NASCAR Cup Series events at Iowa Speedway, the fourth most at the 0.875-mile track.
  • He has five career short track victories, which ranks fourth all-time among Hendrick Motorsports drivers. Four of those victories have come in the Next Gen car.
  • The Elk Grove, California, native is just one lap shy of eclipsing 11,000 career laps led, he would become just the 20th driver in Cup Series history to reach the milestone.
  • The defending champion leads all drivers in laps led on short tracks during the Next Gen era, with 1,839.
  • Larson has finished in the top 10 in 14 of the last 18 short track races

9 CHASE ELLIOTT
Age: 30 (Nov. 28, 1995)
Hometown: Dawsonville, Georgia
Last Race: 37th (Indianapolis)
Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson
Standings: 6th

No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet

  • This weekend, the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Iowa Speedway, where Chase Elliott has a best finish of third (2024).
  • In the Next Gen era on short tracks, Elliott has one win (Martinsville Speedway 2026) and has led the seventh-most laps (675).
  • This season on short tracks, the 30-year-old driver has earned the seventh-most points (94) and led the fifth-most laps (90).
  • Elliott has the fourth-best average running position (8.2), the sixth-best average finish (8.5) and fifth-most points earned (70) across the first two Cup Series races at Iowa.
  • With just four races remaining until The Chase, Elliott is three points out of fifth place in the standings. The 2020 Cup Series champion has remained in the top six throughout the entire season thus far.

24 WILLIAM BYRON
Age: 28 (Nov. 29, 1997)
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Last Race: 21st (Indianapolis)
Crew Chief: Rudy Fugle
Standings: 12th

No. 24 RAPTOR Chevrolet

  • Among the four remaining tracks in the NASCAR Cup Series regular season (Iowa Speedway, Richmond Raceway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway), William Byron has four combined victories to lead Hendrick Motorsports.
  • Three of Byron’s last four victories have come on short tracks (Martinsville Speedway in 2024 and 2025, Iowa in 2025). He is the only repeat winner on that style track in the last 10 events and has earned the fourth-most points (280) in the last eight short track events.
  • In the Next Gen era, the Charlotte, North Carolina, native has the second-most wins (four) on short tracks and has led the fourth-most laps (1,041).
  • Over his NASCAR career, Byron has five starts across the top three series at Iowa. He has one victory in each the Cup, O’Reilly and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, and is the defending Cup winner. He is one of only two drivers to win at Iowa in each series and also finish top five in both Cup races.
  • Byron enters the weekend with an average starting position of third, an average running position of 5.6, and an average finish of 1.5 at Iowa. He’s scored the second-most points (90) and led the second-most laps (141) at the 0.875-mile oval.

48 ALEX BOWMAN
Age: 33 (April 25, 1993)
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Last Race: 19th (Indianapolis)
Crew Chief: Blake Harris
Standings: 29th

No. 48 Ally Chevrolet

  • So far in 2026, Alex Bowman has earned three top fives and four top-10 finishes in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Bowman is one of five drivers to finish inside the top 10 in both races at Iowa Speedway and has an average finish of 7.5 at the track.
  • Bowman finished eighth in the inaugural Cup race at Iowa (2024) after starting 33rd.
  • The 33-year-old has an average running position of 13th at Iowa, ranking him eighth best in the series. Additionally, Bowman has earned a total of 63 points at the track, seventh most.

17 COREY DAY
Age: 20 (November 28, 2005)
Hometown: Clovis, California
Last Race: 7th (Indianapolis)
Crew Chief: Adam Wall
Standings: 5th

  • Corey Day returns to the track after a seventh-place finish at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he earned his 15th top 10 of the NASCAR O’Reilly Series season. With the result, he clinched a spot in The Chase.
  • The 20-year-old driver enters the weekend fifth in the series standings with two wins, one pole and six top-five finishes through the opening 22 races of the 2026 season.
  • The Clovis, California, native returns to Iowa Speedway for his second NOAPS start at the 0.875-mile oval.
  • Following Saturday’s NOAPS race at Iowa Speedway, Day will head to nearby Knoxville Raceway to compete in a sprint car event as part of the 360 Knoxville Nationals, the first of several dirt races on his schedule in August.

Hendrick Motorsports

2026All-TimeIowa
Races221,4392
Wins2322*1**
Poles0259*1**
Top 5201,342*3*
Top 10322,292*5*
Laps Led1,05386,420*223
Stage Wins91461

*Most
**Tied for most

  • The NASCAR Cup Series returns to Iowa Speedway this weekend. Over the course of the series’ first two events at the 0.875-mile oval, Hendrick Motorsports’ one win and one pole are tied for the most while its three top fives and five top 10s are tops among all teams.
  • Hendrick Motorsports drivers have combined to win four of the last eight Cup Series races on short tracks (William Byron two, Chase Elliott one, Kyle Larson one). The organization has also won two of the last six races immediately after an off week.
  • The Hendrick Motorsports engine department enters the weekend with 576 victories across all three national NASCAR touring series, including 17 of 22 events in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series this season.
  • Hendrick Motorsports remains the Cup Series’ all-time standard bearer in wins (322), poles (259), top-five finishes (1,342), top 10s (2,292), laps led (86,420) and championships (15).

QUOTABLE
 
Kyle Larson, driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet, on getting closer to a win: “I feel like we’ve been inching closer and closer all year. A lot of times, I feel like our sport is so close that you can feel so far from winning and so far from being good, when in reality, I think you’re much closer than you feel. So, yeah, you never know. Maybe if you get a win and your car gets a little bit better, you can go on a string. We still have some room to improve, but hopefully we’re not too far away from it.”

Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet, on racing at Iowa Speedway: “I’m looking forward to it. I thought there were moments of hope for us the last couple years out there. Certainly, William (Byron) was really good. I think he’s had some really fast races. So, I’m excited to get out there and see what we’ve got.”

William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet, on returning to Iowa Speedway: “Iowa [Speedway] is just a track that has always clicked for me and that I really love. I’ve had success there in all three series and last year’s win really felt great to complete the sweep. I think having the off time, and this being the next track we go to, really gives our team confidence of what we can accomplish. I’m looking forward to it.”

Alex Bowman, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet, on Iowa Speedway: “We’re ready to head back to the track after some much needed time off to recharge with friends. Iowa [Speedway] is a good track to be headed to; it has been a good one for our Ally 48 team. Track position is important and it’s a track where you have to be smart and aggressive which makes it challenging but a lot of fun to drive.”

Corey Day, driver of the No. 17 Chevrolet, on Iowa Speedway: “Last year at Iowa [Speedway] was my first time there, and honestly, it was a tough weekend for me. Since then, I’ve gained a lot more pavement experience and have spent a lot more time behind the wheel of the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet, so I’m looking forward to going back and seeing what we can do. I feel like I’ve learned a lot this year and I’m hoping we can show some speed and put ourselves in a position to run up front. I’m also looking forward to getting back to a lot of dirt racing throughout August. That always helps me reset and get comfortable again, and I think it carries over when I come back to the pavement.”

Phoenix Raceway Unveils Power-Packed 2027 Race Schedule

By
Official Release
-

Can’t-Miss NASCAR/NTT INDYCAR SERIES weekend returning March 12-14
NASCAR Chase races set for Oct. 22-24 with all three national series in action

AVONDALE, Ariz. (Aug. 5, 2026) – Phoenix Raceway today announced its 2027 schedule, highlighted by the return of one of motorsports’ most exciting weekends. NASCAR and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES will again share the spotlight during a marquee spring doubleheader weekend, March 12-14. That power-packed event will serve as a foretaste for the fall weekend with pivotal NASCAR Chase races in all three national series, Oct. 22-24.

“Phoenix Raceway has long been one of the premier destinations in motorsports, and our 2027 schedule gives fans two exciting weekends to experience the best racing in the world,” said Phoenix Raceway President Latasha Causey. “From the excitement of our NASCAR and NTT INDYCAR SERIES doubleheader in March to the intensity of The Chase in October, Phoenix Raceway will once again shine brightly as one of racing’s most competitive and fan-friendly venues.”

The 2027 spring weekend features a can’t-miss Saturday, March 13, with the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NTT INDYCAR SERIES sharing center stage in a highly anticipated doubleheader. Weekend action begins Friday, March 12, with an ARCA Menards Series race and concludes Sunday, March 14, when the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series tackle the one-mile doglegged oval in a key early-season showdown.

Phoenix Raceway will once again play a pivotal NASCAR championship role when all three national series return for Chase races on Oct. 22-24. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series opens the weekend on Friday, Oct. 22, followed by NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and ARCA Menards Series West races on Saturday, Oct. 23. The weekend culminates with the Freeway Insurance 500 on Sunday, Oct. 24, as the NASCAR Cup Series Chase intensifies with drivers battling for a coveted spot in the championship conversation.

The full 2027 NASCAR and NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedules, along with broadcast details and times, will be released at a later date. Thankfully, fans don’t have to wait until 2027 to experience Phoenix Raceway.

Limited tickets remain available for the track’s upcoming 2026 NASCAR Chase weekend, Oct. 16-18. The weekend will feature Chase races for all three NASCAR national series and also include the penultimate race of the ARCA Menards Series West calendar. Tickets are going fast, so fans are encouraged to secure their seats while supplies last by visiting www.phoenixraceway.com.

About Phoenix Raceway

Phoenix Raceway has been the premier motorsports venue in the Southwest since 1964 and hosts two race weekends each year. Its season-opening weekend March 5-8 features full-throttle excitement with the NASCAR Cup Series, NTT INDYCAR SERIES, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and ARCA Menards Series. NASCAR will also return Oct. 16-18 with intense NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoff racing. Phoenix Raceway also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, corporate meetings and conferences, charity events, weddings, holiday events, sport and endurance competitions, and driving schools. For more information, visit www.PhoenixRaceway.com and download the new NASCAR Tracks App at www.phoenixraceway.com/nascar-tracks-app/.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 15 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O’Reilly Auto Parts). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

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

TEAM CHEVY NASCAR RACE ADVANCE: Iowa Speedway

By
Official Release
-

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE
Iowa Speedway
August 8-9, 2026

The end of the 2026 regular season is on the horizon, and for the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, that journey continues this weekend with a trip to the heart of the “Hawkeye State” to take on Iowa Speedway – a track where Chevrolet reigns as the defending winner in NASCAR’s premier series. Saturday’s Hy-Vee Perks 250 will mark the penultimate race of the O’Reilly Series regular season schedule, with six Team Chevy drivers heading into the weekend with a solidified spot in the title hunt. The Cup Series will round out the weekend on Sunday with the Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol – the first of three-straight short-track events en route to the regular season finale.

BYRON’S HAWKEYE STATE HISTORY

Recharged from the off weekend, combined with a visit to one of his statistically strongest tracks, look for William Byron and the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet team to be a threat come Sunday’s 350-lap race. While the sport’s history at Iowa Speedway is short, Byron’s resume is unmatched – highlighted by a feat that sees him as one of just two drivers in history that has a win in all three NASCAR national touring series at the track. In the Cup Series, the North Carolina native hasn’t finished outside the top-two, including his win in last season’s event, to earn a series-best average finish of 1.5. In its companion series, it took just one start for Byron to break into victory lane – earning his one O’Reilly Series win with JR Motorsports in 2017 and one Craftsman Truck Series win with Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2016.

HOCEVAR’S CAREER SEASON CONTINUES

Carson Hocevar’s third full-time NASCAR Cup Series campaign has been nothing short of impressive, and he only built upon that in the “Racing Capital of the World”. For the fourth time this season, the Michigan native was the Bowtie brigade’s top finisher when he led the manufacturer with a top-10 result in the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The finish, along with a bank of the second-highest points of the day, propelled Hocevar up two positions to make his first appearance in the top-five of the standings. Hocevar has been a steady fixture above the Chase cutline throughout the season, a large part due to consistency that has seen the young Team Chevy driver earn a season average finish of 14.01 – a feat nearly nine positions improved compared to the record book he had at this point of the season in 2025.

 
THE SITE OF STENHOUSE’S FIRST

Iowa Speedway is the site that made Ricky Stenhouse Jr. a first-time winner in the NASCAR national ranks. Rewinding to 2011 and his sophomore season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Stenhouse Jr. made his first trip to victory lane at Iowa, going on to reel off three-straight at the track (2011 sweep; May 2012) – a record streak in the division that still stands today. Returning to the track 12 years later for the Cup Series’ inaugural event, the Mississippi native quickly found his footing around the 7/8-mile oval to earn a top-five finish.

MAYER ON THE BRINK OF A RECORD STREAK

Entering the penultimate race of the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series regular season with a 29-point advantage over the cutline, there’s no better track than Iowa Speedway for Sam Mayer and the No. 41 Haas Factory Team to further build onto that cushion. Since the series return to the track in 2024, Mayer has earned back-to-back trips to victory lane. A win in Saturday’s race would tie the series’ record streak at the track, which is currently held by fellow Team Chevy driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Mayer’s two career Iowa starts nearly mirror each other, with the pair of wins accompanied by fifth-place qualifying efforts and top-four finishes in each stage.

KVAPIL ROCKETS UP THE RANKS

Carson Kvapil conquered the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval to earn his first career win in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Part Series. With a 69-point day, the best of the race by 20 points over veteran driver Justin Allgaier, Kvapil made the biggest move up the standings to a career-best rank of second heading into the Iowa race weekend. With a campaign that has seen the driver compete with three different team and crew chief pairings, his early berth into the Chase is even more impressive.

 
Another Record on the Horizon for JR Motorsports:

A storybook season continues for JR Motorsports with Kvapil’s Indianapolis victory marking the organization’s 14th trip to victory lane this season – boosting its winning percentage to 63.6 percent on the season. Kvapil, the sixth different driver to earn a win under the JRM banner this season, also led the organization to one-two-three-four finish – making them the first organization in series’ history to sweep the top-four finishing positions of a race. The organization sits at now 79 consecutive races with at least one finish in the top-10 – tying the record previously set by RFK Racing.

 
BOWTIE BULLETS:

· Chevrolet will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Iowa Speedway race weekend with the Corvette Stingray pacing the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in their respective events.

· Victories by active Chevrolet drivers in the NASCAR national ranks at Iowa Speedway:

NASCAR Cup Series

William Byron – one win (Aug. 2025)

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. – three wins (2011 sweep; May 2012)

Sam Mayer – two wins (Aug. 2025; June 2024)

Justin Allgaier – one win (June 2018)

William Byron – one win (June 2017)

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

William Byron – one win (June 2016)

Austin Dillon – one win (July 2010)

· With Grant Enfinger’s win at Lime Rock Park, Chevrolet sits just two wins away from its milestone 300th all-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win.

· With seven-straight victories to start the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season, Chevrolet set the record for the longest season-opening streak by a single manufacturer in the division’s history.

· In 165 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 73 victories – a winning percentage of 44.2%.

· Chevrolet is coming off its 29th all-time sweep of the NASCAR Cup Series championship titles – capturing its 34th driver championship and 44th, and fifth consecutive, manufacturer championship in 2025.

· With its 44 NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer championships, 34 NASCAR Cup Series driver championships, and 887 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

FOR THE FANS:

Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway at Iowa Speedway, which features a variety of vehicles including: Silverado 2500 LTZ, Tahoe High Country, Silverado 1500 LTZ, Equinox EV RS, Traverse RS, Corvette Z06, Blazer EV SS, Colorado ZR2, NASCAR Cup Series Camaro ZL1 show car.

Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:

Friday, August 7: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 8: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Sunday, August 9: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:

Saturday, August 8:

Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Michael McDowell: 11:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Justin Allgaier & Carson Kvapil: 12:45 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Sammy Smith & Rajah Caruth: 1:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Sunday, August 9:

Austin Dillon: 10:35 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.

Kyle Larson: 10:50 a.m. – 11:05 a.m.

Ross Chastain & Shane van Gisbergen: 11:20 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.

Daniel Suarez: 11:35 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.

William Byron: 12:00 p.m. – 12:15 p.m.

 
TUNE-IN:

NASCAR Cup Series

Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol

Sunday, Aug. 9, at 3:30 p.m. ET

USA Network, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

Hy-Vee Perks 250

Saturday, Aug. 8, at 5 p.m. ET

CW, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90

 
QUOTABLE QUOTES:

Ross Chastain, No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

There’s a little different look to your Busch Light car this weekend?

“Being an eighth generation watermelon farmer, agriculture and farming are really important to me. It’s awesome to be able to drive Busch Light’s ‘For the Farmers’ paint scheme this weekend at Iowa. There’s no better place to do it since Iowa since is farm country. When you drive up to the speedway, it’s surrounded by green fields. Farmers and farming are very important for providing food for our population and there’s no Busch Light without ingredients grown by farmers.”

You had a weekend off. Are you excited to get back to the track?

“I’m excited for the 50 minute practice this weekend at Iowa. I support having one longer practice session and I’m happy NASCAR has made some adjustments to move in that direction. I hope our Busch Light ‘For the Farmers’ Chevy is good to start with in practice and all we have to do is make a few minor adjustments. I love racing at Iowa Speedway. The surface is weathered and rough which makes it challenging to drive and you really have to hit your marks perfectly.”

Austin Dillon, No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet

What makes Iowa Speedway stand out?

“Iowa is a short track, it’s got a lot of character, hard winters, hot summers. It’s fun to go there. We’ll try to work on the balance of the No. 3 Get Bioethanol Chevrolet to make sure we can get through the bumps and be sure to take care of our tires. I think this race is going to be one of the best ones because of how aged the track is.”

Daniel Suarez, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

What does Iowa mean to you and what will it take to be successful this weekend?

“Iowa Speedway is a special place for me because I have a lot of history there. From my K&N days to my time in the O’Reilly Series, it’s a track where I learned a lot and built a lot of confidence. Coming back now with Spire Motorsports, the goal is to take everything I’ve learned over the years and use that experience to help our team keep improving. Iowa is the kind of place where myself, my crew, and the setup all have to work together, and that’s what makes it such a challenge and such a fun track to race.”

Ty Dillon, No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet

Why have you enjoyed success at Iowa Speedway?

“Iowa Speedway is one of those places where, when I show up, I feel really comfortable with the track. It’s a place where I’ve logged a lot of laps over the course of my career, and I’ve always enjoyed going there. Iowa is a short track, but it feels like a mile-and-a-half in some ways because of the speeds you can carry.”

What do you expect this weekend?

“The end of the race gets quite wild and there’s a lot of crashes. I think that’s one thing that gives me confidence every time there is that I know when it gets chaotic, I feel comfortable. Give me less practice, give me less qualifying and give us some crazy. When there is chaos, I feel calm in the chaos. This is one of those tracks that seems to induce some of that at the end of restarts.”

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet

How was your off weekend and what is your impression of Iowa?

“It was nice to have a rare off weekend to reset, spend time with family, and play a lot of golf. Iowa Speedway is a unique and fun racetrack with some really bumpy sections. There aren’t many tracks like it, and I think that’s what makes it enjoyable. We weren’t as good as we hoped to be in our first year there, but last year we were much closer and had decent speed. Hopefully, we can build on our short-track program, put together a strong run, and come away with a solid result.”

What is an important lesson you are carrying with you into Iowa?

“For me, I’m always going to race hard, but if you push too much, that’s when mistakes happen. The goal is to not make mistakes and put ourselves in a good position at the end of the race so we have a chance for a strong finish. I think we can do that at Iowa.”

Austin Hill, No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet

What is your mindset heading into Iowa Speedway?

“Iowa should be a good challenge for our Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen team. I’ve watched past races and spent time in the simulator to prep for this weekend. Austin (Dillon) and the No. 3 team were solid there last year and left with a top-10 finish, so we are going to use their notes to put us close at the start of practice. Getting a full 50-minute practice session now should be good for our team, because it allows myself to have more laps to learn the track in the Cup car and also allows Andy (Street, crew chief) and the guys to make a few more adjustments. If we execute throughout the weekend, I think we can have a good finish.”

Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet

“We’re ready to get back to racing after the off week. It was nice to have a little time to reset, but everyone at Hyak Motorsports is excited to get back to the track. Iowa is a fun place to race because it’s fast, technical, and the racing gets pretty intense. Track position is always important there, so qualifying well and keeping up with the changing track throughout the weekend will be key. We’ve got NOS Energy Drink on the car, and if we execute all weekend, I think we’ll have a chance to be racing up front when it matters.”

Cody Ware, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Chevrolet

Last year’s Iowa Corn 350 was your first start of any kind at Iowa Speedway. How helpful is it to go back to Iowa with firsthand experience at the track?

“I was probably one of the only guys last year that hadn’t competed in a national series race at Iowa before, so to be able to go back with a Cup race under my belt is going to be pretty huge. That will definitely lessen that learning curve this time around.

I learned the track is very abrasive. They’ve done some asphalt work, but it’s disconnected as far as where the new patches of pavement are compared to the old, and so that created a lack of forward drive. It definitely was one of the tougher races we had last year. But it was also tangible experience, too. We didn’t have that before.”

Michael McDowell, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

What makes Iowa Speedway so challenging?

“Iowa is great. The last few years have put on some fun shows. I’ve raced there a bunch in O’Reilly and ARCA. Even in years when I wasn’t running full-time in O’Reilly, I’d still do the standalone races for some of the bigger organizations or whoever had an open seat.

It was honestly my best track from a results standpoint, but going back there with the Cup car was so different. The track had aged in some areas, then there were new asphalts and patches. It was a very different racetrack.

The heat, surface, roughness, changes and grip differences from patch to patch or from old asphalt and newer asphalt. There’s so much going on in one lap there. It’s really hard to describe. Iowa is very tricky; it’s like a puzzle piece that you’re putting together, where you catch that grip strip and how you come off it, but I am looking forward to getting there and trying to get it right.”

Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

What makes Iowa a difficult track to race?

“It is difficult to race because everyone is fighting for two lanes and you’re all on top of each other. It is really bumpy getting into Turn 1. When you are three or four wide on a restart, if you bottom out over those bumps it is very unpredictable. The lane also moves around a little with the patch, so you are constantly racing the bumps and surface changes. It is a really challenging track, but super fun to race at.”

Connor Zilisch, No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

How did you spend your weekend off?

“I went fishing down in Florida and got a little bit more sun than I was anticipating. It was a good time to get away from things for a few days, but it did feel weird not being at the racetrack this past weekend. I definitely think that it’s good to get away from things for a little bit. It certainly helps to reset your mind.”

What’s the blueprint to have a good day there at Iowa Speedway?

“I won the ARCA race there the first time I went and then last year, in the O’Reilly Series race, I led the entire first stage. I think I had a loose wheel and had to go to the back and came back to finish fourth. I feel like Iowa has always treated me pretty well. It’s certainly a unique racetrack with it being partially paved. There are really only three usable lanes and by three, I mean three car widths. It’s not very wide, but it is racy inside of those three car widths. The banking fall off at Iowa is certainly different and you get some loose moments off Turn 4. Coming off of the new pavement and switching to the old pavement you feel that as the driver and you’ll get some tire spin off of the new pavement. I’m excited to see what it’s like in a Cup car going there for the first time this weekend.”

Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

What can you take away from your recent result at North Wilkesboro and how can you apply this weekend at Iowa Speedway?

“Just confidence. North Wilkesboro was a race that the metric helped us, but it also shows that if we can start up front, we can stay there. That really puts the focus on qualifying, I need to be better, and we need to make our cars better. It’s just awesome to race at the front and keep ourselves there. It shows that everyone is executing and when it all comes together, we can do it.”

You are 57 points ahead of the Chase cutline. How much pride do you take in that, knowing the strides you took to get to this point?

“It’s pretty awesome. To be honest, I was stoked after making those leaps above the cutline. It’s been great to get a lot of points on these ovals. As a team we aren’t exactly where we want to be. We want to make the most of the bad days and try and score as many points as possible. On our bad days we still have to be 15th to 20th and that’s not a good day for points you know. Sometimes you have to suck those days up and accept it, even though you want to be better. There are four races to go and our focus at the moment is points every week.”

 
Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics

Manufacturer Championships:

Total (1949-2025): 44

First title for Chevrolet: 1958

Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)

Most recent: 2025

Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025

Driver Championships:

Total (1949-2025): 34

First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)

Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)

Most recent: Kyle Larson (2025)

Driver and Manufacturer Championship Sweeps: 29

Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025

Event Victories:

Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)

2026 STATISTICS:

Wins: 6

Poles: 5

Laps Led: 1,635

Top-Fives: 38

Top-10s: 74

Stage Wins: 16

CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:

Total Chevrolet race wins: 887 (1949 to date)

Poles won to date: 771

Laps led to date: 258,369

Top-fives to date: 4,474

Top-10s to date: 9,225

Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:

       General Motors: 1,221

       Chevrolet: 887

       Pontiac: 154

       Oldsmobile: 115

       Buick: 65



       Ford: 851                                                                               

       Ford: 751

       Mercury: 96

       Lincoln: 4



       Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467

       Dodge: 217

       Plymouth: 191

       Chrysler: 59



       Toyota: 216

 

About General Motors

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

GM Motorsports, including the Cadillac Formula 1® Team develops and proves advanced technologies in the most demanding environments, accelerating innovation in performance, safety, efficiency, and electrification for its production vehicles. Cadillac Racing is one of the leading manufacturers in the IMSA and FIA World Endurance Championships (WEC). Chevrolet competes in single seaters in the US IndyCar series, and in NASCAR with multiple team partners and drivers. Corvette customer teams compete in GT series across the globe including IMSA and WEC. Learn more at GM.com.

TOYOTA RACING Weekly Preview 08.05.26

By
Official Release
-

This Week in Motorsports: August 3 – 9, 2026

NCS/NOAPS/ARCA: Iowa Speedway – Aug. 7-9
ARCA WEST: Portland International Raceway – Aug. 8

PLANO, Texas (Aug. 5, 2026) – NASCAR returns to action with the Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series taking on the 0.875-mile short oval of Iowa Speedway, just outside of Des Moines. They will be joined by the ARCA Menards Series, creating three days of high-intensity short track racing.

The ARCA Menards Series West is also in action this weekend, road course racing at Portland International Raceway.

NASCAR National Series – NCS/NOAPS

Camry XSE drivers zero in on ‘The Chase’ … With four races remaining in the Cup Series regular season, Toyota drivers are all around the battle for the postseason. Leading the way for Team Toyota – and in the series point standings – is Denny Hamlin, who leads Tyler Reddick by 84 points entering this weekend. Those two, along with Ty Gibbs (fourth), are already locked into ‘The Chase.’ Also in the provisional field are Chase Briscoe(seventh), Christopher Bell (10th) and Bubba Wallace (14th). Just outside ‘The Chase’ field is Erik Jones, sitting 18th and 44 points out of the 16th position.

Bell, Briscoe look to continue strong pushes … Both Bell and Briscoe arrive in Iowa this weekend on similar hot streaks. Both Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) drivers have finished inside the top-five in four of the last five races, with Bell coming home second in Indianapolis two weeks ago and Briscoe finishing fourth in his home race. In this span, Bell has three runner-up finishes in the last four races, while Briscoe has a win at Chicagoland Speedway. Both make their third career Cup Series starts at Iowa Speedway this weekend, a track where both have captured victory in the O’Reilly Series before.

GR Supra drivers look to make up ground in points … Ahead of this weekend in Iowa, Toyota drivers across the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS) are fighting for their place in the postseason field. Brandon Jones is the lead GR Supra driver, sitting sixth in the point standings and is locked into ‘The Chase.’ His JGR teammates Brent Crews (11th) and Taylor Gray (12th) currently round out the provisional postseason field, while William Sawalich is outside looking in, sitting in 13th, just seven points back of Gray.

JGR GR Supra drivers look to continue momentum … Like their counterparts in the Cup Series, a few JGR drivers in the NOAPS are riding momentum going into Iowa this weekend. Crews has five top-10 finishes in the last seven races after coming home sixth two weeks ago in Indianapolis. Jones has 13 top-10s in the last 18 races after finishing ninth in Indianapolis, and Sawalich has consecutive top-fives after placing fifth two weeks ago.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series + West

Another strong lineup for Toyota … For this weekend’s national series race at Iowa, Toyota brings another strong lineup as it eyes win number 10 on the 2026 season. Max Reaves once again pilots the No. 18 Toyota Camry for JGR, seeking his third national series win of the season. For Nitro Motorsports, Jade Avedisian will pilot the No. 15, Jake Bollman continues in the No. 20, Gavan Boschele is back in the No. 25, Isabella Robustois racing in the No. 55 and Thomas Annunziata is in the No. 70. Entering this weekend, Bollman leads Annunziata by a mere three points in the series championship standings with seven races remaining this season.

Lovell, Corry take on Portland … Out west at Portland International Raceway, Nitro Motorsports brings a few strong Toyota Camrys in search of a second consecutive victory in the series. Mia Lovell will drive the No. 15 Toyota Camry this weekend, coming off a runner-up finish at Sonoma Raceway last time out – her second consecutive top-three finish and fifth consecutive top-10, while Sam Corry returns to the No. 25 Toyota Camry. Corry is coming off his first career pole and victory at Sonoma in June. This will be Corry’s third West Series start of the season.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs approximately 48,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 36 million cars and trucks at our 11 manufacturing plants. In 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina began to assemble automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.

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

JR Motorsports — NOAPS Iowa Speedway Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports O’Reilly Auto Parts Team Preview
TRACK – Iowa Speedway (0.875-mile-oval)
NOAPS RACE – Hy-Vee Perks 250 (250 laps / 218.75 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, MRN, SiriusXM Channel 90, ESPN Mobile App at 5:00 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet

Kvapil 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 22

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 13

Laps Led: 122

Avg. Finish: 11.6

Points: 2nd

Carson Kvapil will head to Iowa Speedway this weekend for the second time in his NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series career.

In his debut at Iowa last season, Kvapil brought home a solid ninth-place finish.

On tracks measuring under 1 mile in length, Kvapil has made eight NOAPS starts with four top-five and five top-10 finishes.

After winning at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Kvapil jumped up to second in the series point standings.

Carson Kvapil

“Iowa is such a fun track to race on and really suits my driving style. The different variations in pavement really make it challenging. I know Rodney (Childers, crew chief) and this entire No. 1 Bass Pro Shops team will bring another rocket ship to the track this weekend. We want to keep building on the momentum we have right now after winning at Indianapolis and put Bass Pro Shops in Victory Lane on Saturday.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture / Precision Build Chevrolet

Allgaier 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 22

Wins: 6

Top 5s: 14

Top 10s: 17

Laps Led: 476

Avg. Finish: 8.9

Points: 1st

Justin Allgaier is a previous NOAPS winner in the cornfields of Iowa, capturing the checkered flag in June of 2018 after leading for a race-high 182 laps.

Overall, Allgaier has earned a combined four top-fives and 12 top-10s to accompany the 2018 victory at Iowa.

In his career on short tracks in the NOAPS, Allgaier has amassed seven wins, 33 top-fives and 52 top-10s in 85 starts.

This weekend in Iowa, Allgaier’s No. 7 Chevrolet will feature a co-branded effort between BRANDT Professional Agriculture and Precision Build.

Justin Allgaier

“Iowa has always been one of my favorite tracks on the schedule. It’s a track that really lets you run in every groove, which makes it a lot of fun. We’ve had some strong runs here in the past, and I know that Andrew (Overstreet, crew chief) and everyone on this BRANDT Professional Agriculture / Precision Build Chevrolet have been hard at work through the off week to ensure we unload just as strong again this weekend. Hopefully we can have a smooth day and keep this momentum going as we get closer to the Chase getting underway.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 22

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 6

Top 10s: 10

Laps Led: 51

Avg. Finish: 11.4

Points: 8th

Sammy Smith will head to his home state to race at Iowa for the third time in his NOAPS career. His best finish on the 0.875-mile oval is fourth, and his average finish is 9.5.

In 18 career NOAPS starts on short tracks, Smith has earned seven top-five and 11 top-10 finishes.

According to NASCAR’s Loop Data Statistics, Smith is ranked first for most quality passes thus far in 2026, with 1,112.

The No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet is going to have a special look this weekend, paying tribute to the late Michael Annett. The Pilot scheme Smith will run at Iowa is based on Annett’s first livery with JRM in 2017.

Sammy Smith

“Being able to race in my hometown area is always something I look forward to, but even more so this year as we’re honoring Michael (Annett) with the Pilot scheme. He was a great mentor for me, like family to us and a large influence on why I started racing. Thank you to Pilot for allowing us to bring their old branding back for this race at Iowa. It’s really special to me and would mean nothing more to me, my family, and this No. 8 team to park it in Victory Lane and make Michael proud.”

Ross Chastain

No. 9 Registix Chevrolet

Chastain 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 9

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 3

Top 10s: 6

Laps Led: 149

Avg. Finish: 10.6

Points: N/A

Ross Chastain will be making his final NOAPS start with JRM in 2026 this weekend at Iowa.

Chastain has made one previous start at Iowa with JRM in 2025, where he led for 120 laps and finished in third.

In 34 starts at tracks shorter than 1-mile in the NOAPS, Chastain has eight top fives and 12 top-10s with a best finish of second on three occasions (Bristol Motor Speedway, 2020 Dover Motor Speedway, 2020 and Richmond Raceway, 2018).

Registix, the nation’s largest liquidator of home improvement and appliances, will be riding along with Chastain with an updated paint scheme in their signature colors.

Ross Chastain

“This season with JR Motorsports and everyone on this No. 9 team has been so fun and I am looking forward to going back to Iowa this weekend for our last race together. We almost got it done last year, so I know Philip (Bell, crew chief) and everyone else in this group is going to bring a fast Registix Chevrolet to the track. We are keeping up the intensity to hopefully get a great finish for everyone at Registix.”

Rajah Caruth

No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

Caruth 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 22

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 1

Top 10s: 7

Laps Led: 76

Avg. Finish: 20.2

Points: 14th

Rajah Caruth returns to the No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet this weekend at Iowa and will drive the car for the remainder of the 2026 season.

While Caruth will be making his first NASCAR O’Reilly Series start at Iowa, he has competed at the 0.875-mile oval twice in the ARCA Menards Series, earning one top-10 finish in 2021.

On tracks measuring one mile or less this season, Caruth earned a career-best fourth-place finish at Rockingham Speedway and had strong runs at both Dover and Martinsville Speedway before late-race troubles prevented the No. 88 team from delivering the finishes it deserved.

With two races remaining in the regular season, Caruth sits 14th in the championship standings, just 20 points below the Chase cutline as he begins his full-time stretch behind the wheel of the No. 88 Chevrolet.

Rajah Caruth

“I’m really happy to get back with Mardy (Lindley, crew chief) and everyone on the No. 88 team for the rest of the season. I haven’t raced at Iowa since the repave, so it’ll definitely be a different challenge than the last time I was there. The track has changed quite a bit, so we’ll spend practice learning what it wants and making sure we’re ready for the race. We’ve had speed on tracks like this all season, and if we can execute all day, I think we’ll have a good shot at a strong finish and gaining some ground in the points.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Iowa Speedway: JR Motorsports has competed at Iowa Speedway a combined 67 times in NOAPS since 2009. In those starts at the 0.875-mile oval, the organization has recorded four wins, 19 top-fives, and 41 top-10s. The average finish is 11.3.

Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith, and Rajah Caruth will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / HMS WB + AB souvenir rig on Saturday, August 8th, from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. CDT.

How to Build the Ultimate Motorsport Support Vehicle for Off-Road Racing

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SM
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Photo by Grégory Costa on Pexels

Off-road racing is a team sport. While the spotlight naturally falls on the driver navigating demanding terrain, the unsung hero of any successful campaign is the motorsport support vehicle. Often referred to as a chase truck, this rig must follow the race route, carry essential tools, and safely transport the crew across harsh outback conditions. The Tatts Finke Desert Race is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most demanding off-road motorsport events, with service roads that are equally unforgiving. The Ford Ranger Raptor has earned a strong reputation as a capable platform for off-road motorsport support. However, converting a high-performance ute into a reliable chase truck requires careful planning and strategic modifications.

Armouring Up Against Regional Hazards

The dangers on regional roads are significant, particularly in areas where wildlife is commonly encountered. Animal strikes can cause severe vehicle damage, serious injuries, and lengthy delays for travelling teams. Kangaroos are among the most common hazards for motorists in many parts of Australia, making robust frontal protection an essential consideration for vehicles operating in remote areas.

Despite repeated warnings from road safety authorities, insurer surveys found that one in five Australian drivers would instinctively and dangerously swerve to avoid an animal. Attempting a sudden evasive manoeuvre with a heavy tool trailer attached is a recipe for a rollover. Instead, outfitting your rig with physical armour ensures the vehicle remains operational if a collision occurs. If you are using Ford’s flagship off-roader as your base, installing heavy-duty bull bars for Ford Ranger Raptor provides critical protection for the radiator and steering components. This modification not only safeguards the crew but also ensures the support team actually makes it to the bivouac to service the race car.

Managing Payload and Suspension Stress

A chase truck carries a massive payload. Between spare tyres, welding equipment, hundreds of litres of fuel, and the heavy race trailer itself, the weight adds up incredibly fast. The current generation Ranger Raptor is legally rated to tow 2,500 kg braked, which is a full 1,000 kg less than the standard V6 Ranger due to its performance-focused, long-travel coil-spring rear suspension. Pushing a factory setup beyond its limits is highly dangerous. In fact, understanding how heavy towing damages your truck’s suspension by causing dangerous squatting and swaying is the first step in avoiding catastrophic failure on unsealed outback roads.

To counter these limitations, aftermarket Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrades have become a popular solution. Modern suspension systems can legally increase payload capacity while maintaining the suspension geometry needed to cope with rough terrain, deep bulldust, and relentless corrugations. Upgraded heavy-duty springs and high-capacity shock absorbers help keep the support truck stable and responsive, even when carrying a fully loaded complement of racing equipment.

The Ultimate Chase Truck Checklist

Building a reliable support vehicle is about striking a balance between off-road capability and practical utility. When putting together your build sheet, consider the following essentials for your setup:

  • UHF Communications: A high-powered UHF radio setup is vital for communicating with the race car, race control, and other support crews in remote areas with zero mobile phone reception.
  • Advanced Lighting: High-output LED driving lights and roof-mounted light bars are necessary for spotting track hazards and wildlife during night stages or late-night transits between pits.
  • Recovery Gear: A minimum 10,000 lb winch, rated recovery points, and a comprehensive set of snatch straps are mandatory for extracting both your rig and potentially the race car from deep sand or mud.
  • Organised Storage: A custom rear canopy with modular drawers ensures tools, spare parts, and emergency first aid supplies are instantly accessible when every second counts during a frantic pit stop.

A successful off-road racing campaign requires rigorous preparation. By investing in heavy-duty frontal protection, proper suspension upgrades, and reliable recovery gear, you create a motorsport support vehicle that can confidently tackle the harshest conditions in Australia. When the chase truck is built right, the race team can focus entirely on what matters most, which is keeping the car running and crossing the finish line first.

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