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Essential Precautions for Managing Roadway Hazards and Incidents

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

Seventy on the 405. Semi on your right. A guy in a silver Civic suddenly remembers his exit, three lanes over. Normal Tuesday. Nobody can control traffic like that. Being ready when it goes sideways, though? That part’s on you. And it mostly gets sorted out before you even back out of the driveway.

How to Drive Defensively on California Freeways

Big crashes usually start small. Someone checks a text. Someone tailgates because they’re late. Someone merges and hopes the gap is there.

A Few Rules Worth Following at 70 mph

  • Stay roughly three seconds back from whoever’s ahead. Any road sign works for this. Their bumper passes it, you start counting. Get there before “three” and you’re too close. On wet pavement, make it six.
  • Keep the phone in the mount. California Vehicle Code 23123.5 says you can’t hold it at all behind the wheel. One tap or one swipe, and that’s your limit.
  • Stop staring at the bumper right in front of you. Eyes two cars up, on their brake lights. That’s an extra second, give or take, and at 65 a second is almost 100 feet of asphalt.
  • See somebody on the shoulder with hazards blinking, or cones out? Move over. AB 390 kicked in this January, so it now applies to regular cars stuck there too, not just cops and tow trucks. No room to switch lanes? Ease off the gas.

Fog and dust are a separate problem. November 1991, near Coalinga, a dust storm rolled across Interstate 5 and more than 160 cars ended up piled into each other. Seventeen people died. Visibility went to almost nothing in a few minutes. The people who slowed down early mostly walked away.

Still, even the calmest driver on the 5 can get rear-ended, and questions come fast. Who pays for the car? What is the other guy’s insurer allowed to ask you? How long do you even have to file? Firms like Landver Law see these freeway cases every week, and talking to a California automobile accident lawyer early tends to save people from mistakes they can’t undo later. More on that below.

What to Do When a Crash or Breakdown Happens in Traffic

Well, here is the thing. Most people’s first instinct after a bump is to jump out and look at the damage. On a freeway, that’s the worst place to be standing.

The First Minutes After a Collision

  1. Hazards on. Before anything else.
  2. Check on everyone in your car. If someone’s hurt, call 911 and leave them where they are unless there’s smoke or fire.
  3. Car still drives, and nobody’s injured? Get it to the shoulder or off at the next exit. A small scrape sitting in the fast lane is how a second crash happens.
  4. Stuck on a skinny shoulder while trucks blow past at 70? Staying put with your belt on is often the safer bet. Guardrail there, and space to walk? Then stand behind it.
  5. Trade names, license numbers, insurance info, and plate numbers. California requires drivers in a crash to stop, so don’t leave.
  6. Take pictures. Both cars, the plates, lane markings, skid marks, signs. Three weeks later, your memory will be fuzzy. The photos won’t.
  7. Don’t argue about who’s at fault. Just get the facts.

People forget this one a lot. If anyone got hurt or killed, or the damage tops $1,000, you have 10 days to send the DMV an SR-1 form. It doesn’t matter whether the police already wrote a report.

When the Car Itself Fails

Blowouts sound like a gunshot and feel even worse. The fix, though, is pretty dull. Hands tight on the wheel, foot off the gas, and leave the brake alone for now. The car slows on its own as you drift right onto the shoulder.

Engine quits? Signal right and coast over while there’s still some speed left in it. Brakes going soft halfway down the Grapevine? Drop to a lower gear. Those runaway truck ramps aren’t decoration.

Actually, about forty bucks can cut the stress in half. Two reflective triangles, a flashlight, some water, a power bank that’s actually charged. Toss it all in the trunk. You’ll forget it’s there, which is fine.

The day after, an adjuster calls. Super friendly. Wants a quick recorded statement “just to get things moving.” So what do you think, should you just wing that call?

Why Specialized Legal Sources Beat Random Forums

Reddit threads are great for a lot of things. California injury law isn’t one of them, mostly because half the advice comes from people in other states. Here, a driver who was partly at fault can still recover money, just less, because California uses pure comparative fault. And you usually get two years to file an injury claim. Miss that, and the claim is basically gone.

So read stuff from firms that actually take California cases, not from some guy in Ohio. How do you spot a decent legal page? A couple of tells:

  • California rules, by name. Not “U.S. law,” whatever that’s supposed to mean.
  • A date. When was this thing last touched?
  • It names real statutes instead of vague promises.
  • A plain line saying it’s general info, not advice on your case.

Makes sense, right? An article gets you the rules, more or less. A lawyer looks at your crash, your policy, and your deadlines.

Traffic in California isn’t going to get any nicer. But the kit in your trunk, the gap you leave, and knowing who to call afterward are all on you, and none of it costs much.

The Hidden Effects of Road Grime, UV Rays, and Everyday Driving on Your Car

By
SM
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Most drivers wash their car when it looks dirty. However, the harm that accrues over time is often the type that is not immediately apparent. Every time you drive a long distance, everything from road grime to sun exposure takes its toll on your vehicle. If you are aware of what is going on, you can minimize damage to your vehicle and save money in the end. This article will clarify the unnoticed effects of road grime, UV rays, and regular driving and what you can do to counteract each one.

Road Grime Does More Than Look Dirty

Road grime consists of oil, brake dust, dust, tar, and road salt. Will adhere to your paint and wheels! It has the potential to wear away the finish over time and to leave a fine layer of scratches when cleaned and dried. Even worse, salt accelerates the rusting process on the underbody and wheel wells. Grime also helps to hold moisture near the metal, allowing rust to get a start.

The Paint Slowly Fades Under the UV Rays

The Paint Slowly Fades Under the UV Rays

The UV rays will degrade the clear coat on your paint. Once that layer weakens, the color underneath starts to fade and look chalky. That is why the roof and hood will be the spot that has the worst appearance compared to the rest of the car. Headlights and plastic trim are not spared either, and they frequently yellow or gray. Many car owners turn to professional auto detailers for paint correction and protective coatings that act like sunscreen for the finish. Regular care keeps that top layer strong for years.

Your Interior Takes a Beating Too

Sunlight does not only hurt the outside. It warms the cabin and dries leather seats. It may also cause the dashboard to crack and fade plastic trim. Over time, spilled drinks, crumbs, and sweat contribute to the buildup of bacteria and odors. Tint can reduce the amount of harmful UV light that is transmitted through the glass, and can also be used to help keep the interior cooler. This is worsened by pet hair or food spills.

It is important to remember that everyday driving is a hidden wear.

Stressful conditions such as short trips, stop-and-go traffic, and rough roads add stress you are not aware of. Fungus and bird life excretions are acidic and can cause paint to deteriorate in days. Rust enters through tiny “grain boundaries” in the small rock chips. Brake dust can adhere to wheels and cause pitting if not removed. These little things will accumulate over the months and decrease the value of your car.

Tires, Glass, and Rubber Also Suffer

Tires, Glass, and Rubber Also Suffer

The sun and dirt are not deterred by the paint. Water and noise can seep in through rubber seals on doors and windows that become cracked and dry. The heat and chemicals in the road cause small cracks in the sidewall of the tires. The oil and dirt that collect on glass will be the source of glare at night, which will make driving less safe. These parts will work longer if they are cleaned and conditioned.

Why Regular Washing Is Not Enough

A good wash will get rid of surface dirt, not the dirt that is bound to the paint. Swirl marks can also be left by automatic washes. Hand washing, clay treatment, and wax or sealant go deeper and add a protective layer. Next time, it will be easier to remove dirt from that layer. Professional products can also reach areas that home washing often misses.

Simple Habits That Protect Your Car

Just a few simple routines can make a big difference. Clean the car regularly (every 2 weeks or so) and remove salt from the car during winter. Park in the shade or under a sunshade. Immediately clean bird droppings and bugs. Clean the interior frequently with a vacuum and use a UV-safe cleaner to clean the dashboard. Schedule a full detail once or twice a year.

Conclusion

Daily driving, UV rays, and road grime over time affect the appearance and durability of your car. Fortunately, many of these damages can be prevented. Taking the right steps in terms of washing, smart parking, and proper protection, your vehicle can retain its shine and value for many years. 

How Regular Touchless Washing Can Help Preserve Your Car’s Exterior Finish

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

A clean car has a way of making an ordinary drive feel better, whether you’re heading to work or pulling into the driveway after a long weekend. Unfortunately, keeping that fresh appearance takes more than waiting until the paint looks dusty. Road grime, pollen, insects, and bird droppings can settle onto the finish between trips. That’s often when drivers search for a touchless car wash near me, hoping to find a practical way to remove buildup without putting brushes against the paint. Done properly, contact-free washing can become a useful part of exterior care. It isn’t a cure for every stain, but it can help make routine maintenance easier and less abrasive.

Everyday Dirt Does More Than Look Untidy

It’s remarkable how quickly a freshly cleaned vehicle collects another layer of grime. Tires throw road residue onto lower doors, wind carries dust across the hood, and parking beneath trees can leave sticky deposits in unexpected places. On dark paint, even a light coating may seem obvious. On lighter colors, the buildup can hide until someone runs a finger near the door handle.

Appearance isn’t the only consideration. Bird droppings and insect remains can be especially troublesome when left on paint, particularly in warm weather. Some contaminants may stain or etch the clear coat. Regular removal reduces the time they spend sitting on the surface, which is much easier than dealing with damaged paint later. Even vehicles that spend most of their time parked deserve attention, since environmental contaminants don’t disappear simply because the car isn’t being driven.

Why Washing Without Brushes Appeals to Drivers

Traditional automatic washes often rely on rotating brushes or cloth strips to shift dirt. Well-maintained equipment can clean effectively, but any material that makes contact with gritty paint creates a potential for fine scratches. Those marks may be hard to notice at first, then become frustratingly visible when sunlight hits a freshly polished panel.

A touchless system takes a different approach. It applies cleaning solutions, allows them time to loosen soil, and uses directed water jets to rinse the surface. Because there are no spinning brushes dragging across the bodywork, one possible source of abrasion is removed. That doesn’t mean the method is completely risk-free, but it explains why drivers concerned about swirl marks often consider it.

What Happens During a Typical Wash

The process usually begins with a rinse or a presoak designed to soften the dirt clinging to the vehicle. Detergents follow, then high-pressure water carries away loosened residue. Depending on the facility, there may also be an underbody rinse, a protective product, or a spot-reducing final rinse. Equipment and wash packages vary, so it’s worth checking what’s actually included.

Those chemicals do much of the work that brushes would otherwise perform. Proper dilution, suitable formulations, and maintained spray equipment therefore matter. Stronger isn’t automatically better, especially for vehicles with sensitive trim, aging finishes, or specialized coatings. A reputable operator should use products appropriate for automotive surfaces and keep the machinery in good condition.

Make Seasonal Washing Part of the Routine

Every season leaves its own signature on a vehicle. Spring brings pollen and wet-road splashes, while dry summer days leave dust behind. Autumn can add leaf residue and muddy tracks. Winter driving may introduce deicing salts, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, and the underside of the car.

Rather than following a rigid calendar, consider how and where you drive. A car parked outdoors under trees might need attention sooner than one kept in a garage. After traveling on salted roads, look for a wash that includes an effective underbody rinse. Removing deposits promptly can help reduce corrosion risk, though washing alone cannot replace proper rust prevention or maintenance. Changing your washing schedule with the seasons can make exterior care feel considerably more manageable.

Know When Contact-Free Cleaning Needs Help

One of the most useful things to know about this method is where it reaches its limits. Dried mud, tar, thick insect deposits, and greasy films may resist even a thorough automated cycle. Water pressure and detergent cannot always remove material that has bonded stubbornly to the surface.

Avoid treating a remaining mark as permission to scrub it with a dry towel at the exit. That can push abrasive particles across the finish. Instead, use a suitable automotive cleaner and a careful, well-lubricated technique, or arrange professional detailing for persistent contamination. Bird droppings deserve prompt, gentle attention rather than waiting for the next scheduled wash.

Protect the Finish Between Visits

Regular cleaning works best alongside a few sensible habits. Parking away from heavy tree fallout when possible can reduce sticky residue. Removing fresh contamination carefully, checking that drainage areas stay clear, and maintaining any wax or sealant according to product guidance all contribute to a more manageable exterior.

Keep expectations realistic about protective wash upgrades. A spray-on product offered during an automatic cycle may add short-lived water repellency, but it isn’t necessarily equivalent to a professionally applied coating. Likewise, no wash can repair existing scratches or faded clear coats. Good care is about limiting new problems while recognizing what the paint already needs.

Choose a Facility With Care

Convenience is important, especially for drivers trying to fit vehicle maintenance into a packed week. Still, take a moment to notice whether the site appears well maintained, the instructions are clear, and the equipment operates consistently. Check the listed wash stages rather than assuming the most expensive option is automatically the best one.

Pay attention to any manufacturer guidance about roof racks, loose accessories, body modifications, or damaged exterior parts before entering an automated bay. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is suitable, ask the operator first. A little preparation is preferable to discovering that an accessory isn’t compatible once the cycle has started.

A Better Habit, Not a Perfect Shortcut

There’s something satisfying about seeing the dust disappear and the paint regain its shine without spending an afternoon with buckets and hoses. For everyday grime, a properly operated brush-free wash can offer a convenient way to keep buildup under control while reducing mechanical contact with the finish.

The biggest benefit comes from consistency and sensible expectations. Wash when conditions call for it, address stubborn contamination separately, and keep an eye on the condition of the paint. Choosing a dependable service is a practical first step, but caring for a vehicle is an ongoing habit. A little attention throughout the year can help preserve the appearance you’re proud to drive around in.

Slot Thailand and Slot Online: Why Game Experience Matters More Than Popularity

By
SM
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The online slot market is full of popular labels, trending games, and promotional claims, but popularity alone does not always tell players whether a game is actually enjoyable. This is especially true in discussions around Slot Thailand, Slot Gacor, and Slot Online, where players are often exposed to a large number of titles that may look impressive at first glance but feel very different once they are played.

A better way to judge quality is to focus on the actual experience. Good slot games are usually easy to understand, responsive on mobile devices, clear about their features, and supported by platforms that explain important terms without making users search through complicated menus.

Why Slot Thailand Is Becoming More Experience-Driven

Slot Thailand is often associated with localized platforms and games that are designed for users interested in the Thai market. In the past, localization may have meant little more than translated menus, but modern platforms are increasingly expected to provide a more complete regional experience.

This can include Thai-language support, familiar payment methods, mobile-friendly design, and themes inspired by local culture. These details can make a platform feel more relevant and easier to use.

Good Localization Should Feel Natural

A well-localized platform should not feel like a generic website with translated text added later. The navigation, terminology, payment options, and support system should all feel consistent.

Regional Themes Can Add Personality

Games inspired by temples, lotus flowers, elephants, mythology, or traditional patterns can create a distinctive identity, especially when the visual design supports the gameplay instead of overwhelming it.

Slot Gacor Is Still About Player Experience

The phrase Slot Gacor is often used by players to describe games that feel active, exciting, or rewarding during a particular session.

This can mean frequent small wins, bonus features appearing more often, or simply a game that feels more entertaining than others at that moment.

Slot Gacor Is Not a Permanent Condition

A game that feels gacor today may feel completely different in another session.

That does not necessarily mean something has changed behind the scenes. Online slot outcomes are generally generated randomly, so variation is normal.

Community Feedback Is Useful but Limited

Player discussions can help identify popular titles, but they should not be treated as guaranteed predictions of future results.

Slot Online Games Should Be Easy to Understand

A strong Slot Online game should make its rules clear from the beginning. Players should be able to understand how symbols, paylines, bonuses, and special features work without excessive effort.

This is especially important because modern slots can include many advanced mechanics.

Complexity Should Not Create Confusion

Games may include cascading reels, sticky wilds, expanding symbols, cluster systems, or changing reel layouts. These features can make gameplay more interesting, but they should still be explained clearly.

Simpler Games Can Offer a Better Experience

Some players prefer straightforward games with fewer mechanics. A clean game can feel more enjoyable than a complicated one if the design is smoother and easier to follow.

RTP Helps Players Compare Game Structure

RTP stands for Return to Player.

It represents the theoretical percentage of total wagers that a slot may return over a very large number of spins.

For example, a game with a 96% RTP is mathematically designed around that long-term figure.

RTP Is Not a Promise for One Session

Players should not expect their personal results to exactly match the published RTP.

Short sessions can vary significantly.

Use RTP as Supporting Information

RTP is useful when comparing games, but it should be considered alongside volatility, betting range, and bonus mechanics.

Volatility Can Shape the Entire Session

Volatility describes how frequently wins may appear and how large those wins can potentially be.

Low-volatility games generally provide smaller wins more often, while high-volatility slots may produce fewer wins but larger potential outcomes.

Match Volatility With Your Preferences

Players who prefer a steadier rhythm may enjoy lower volatility.

Those who are comfortable with larger balance swings may prefer higher volatility.

Budget Should Influence the Decision

The more volatile the game, the more important it becomes to manage bet size carefully.

Bonus Features Should Add Value to the Game

Modern Slot Gacor and Slot Online titles often promote free spins, multipliers, cascading reels, sticky wilds, mystery symbols, and other special features.

These mechanics can make sessions more varied.

Free spins are easy to understand and often come with extra features such as multipliers or additional wilds.

Cascading Reels Can Extend Gameplay

Cascading systems replace winning symbols with new ones, potentially creating more than one combination during the same sequence.

Too Many Features Can Hurt Clarity

A game should not feel overloaded. Players should always know why a feature activated and what it does.

Mobile Performance Is Now Essential

Many users access Slot Thailand and other Slot Online platforms through smartphones, so mobile performance has become a major part of platform quality.

A good mobile experience should be fast, stable, and easy to navigate.

Interface Design Matters on Small Screens

Buttons should remain large enough to use comfortably, while text and game information should stay readable.

Speed Matters More Than Decoration

A flashy platform is not useful if it loads slowly or freezes during use.

Platform Transparency Should Be Easy to Notice

Players should be able to find clear information about deposits, withdrawals, bonus conditions, and account rules.

A good platform does not hide important details behind complicated language.

Promotional Terms Should Be Clear

Bonuses can be useful, but players should understand wagering requirements and withdrawal conditions before accepting them.

Avoid Guaranteed-Win Claims

Claims about guaranteed profits, fixed winning schedules, or certain Slot Gacor outcomes should be treated cautiously.

Online slots remain games of chance.

Demo Mode Can Help With Better Game Selection

Demo mode allows players to explore unfamiliar games without immediately using real money.

This can be useful for understanding game speed, reel structure, and bonus mechanics.

Use Demo Mode to Compare Styles

Players can test several titles and see which design feels most comfortable.

Demo Results Are Not Forecasts

The purpose of demo play is to learn how the game works, not to predict future outcomes.

Responsible Play Should Always Be Part of the Experience

Online slots should be treated as entertainment.

Players should decide how much they are comfortable spending before starting and avoid using money meant for essential expenses.

Time limits can also help keep sessions manageable.

Avoid Chasing Losses

Increasing bets after losing does not make the next result more likely to be positive.

Because the outcome remains random, chasing losses can increase financial risk.

Keep Expectations Realistic

Neither Slot Thailand nor Slot Gacor should be viewed as a guaranteed source of income.

Final Thoughts

Slot Thailand, Slot Gacor, and Slot Online are popular terms, but a better gaming experience depends on more practical factors.

Slot Thailand is strongest when localization feels natural and mobile usability is handled well. Slot Gacor is best understood as a community expression, while Slot Online continues to evolve through better design and more creative mechanics.

The most useful way to choose a game is to focus on clarity, performance, RTP, volatility, bonus structure, platform transparency, and personal budget.

When players look beyond popularity and evaluate the actual quality of the experience, they can make more informed decisions and enjoy online slots with more realistic expectations.

Daniel Suarez returning to Spire Motorsports for 2027 Cup Series season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Tim Jarrold for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Daniel Suarez is officially confirmed to remain at Spire Motorsports and retain driving responsibilities of the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season.

The contract extension news, which was made by Spire Motorsports on Tuesday, October 13, occurs as the 34-year-old Suarez from Monterrey, Mexico, is campaigning in his first season with the organization. Through 32-scheduled starts, he achieved a rain-shortened Coca-Cola 600 victory at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May and is currently a 2026 Chase contender. With a total of three top-five results and seven top-10 results, Suarez is ranked in 14th place in this year’s Chase standings.

Suarez made his debut as a full-time Cup Series competitor in 2017, a year after he became the first Latin American champion across NASCAR’s top-three national touring series by winning the 2016 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series title. The Monterrey native drove for Joe Gibbs Racing for two seasons (2017-18) before he drove for Stewart-Haas Racing in 2019 and Gaunt Brothers Racing in 2020. Over the course of the latter four seasons, he recorded a combined eight top-five results, 32 top-10 results, two poles and 241 laps led.

Beginning in 2021, Suarez drove for Trackhouse Racing. The following season, he became the first Mexican-born competitor to win in the Cup Series division after he notched his first career victory at Sonoma Raceway. He proceeded to make his first-ever Playoffs and notch a career-best 10th-place result in the final standings. Two years later, Suarez notched his second career victory at Atlanta’s EchoPark Speedway following a three-wide photo finish and battle with Ryan Blaney and Kyle Busch. The Atlanta victory enabled Suarez to make his second career Playoffs and finish in 12th place in the final standings.

The 2025 season marked Suarez’s last at Trackhouse before he joined Spire Motorsports this season, the latter of which featured both achieving a breakthrough victory at Charlotte during the Coca-Cola 600 amid a rain-shortened event and both notching a first crown-jewel victory in NASCAR’s premier series. With a total of 14 top-15 results throughout this year’s 26-race regular-season stretch, including the Coca-Cola 600 victory and a runner-up result during the regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway, Suarez notched his third career Chase berth. He and teammate Carson Hocevar enabled Spire Motorsports to make the organization’s first appearances in the Chase.

Through 335 starts, Suarez has achieved three victories, three poles, 27 top-five results, 82 top-10 results, 949 laps led and an average-finishing result of 18.7 as he continues his pursuit for more victories and his first Cup Series championship. 

With his plans for next season set, Daniel Suarez’s 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season resumes this upcoming Sunday, October 18, at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona, for the Freeway Insurance 500. The event’s broadcast time is slated to commence at 3 p.m. ET on USA Network, MRN Radio, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.

The Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway Outlook and Picks

By
SM Staff
-

The NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) heads to Phoenix Raceway this weekend for the Freeway Insurance 500 on October 18 at 3 p.m. ET on USA, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90).

In 2025, Denny Hamlin captured the pole with a lap of 133.759 mph (26.914 secs.), and Ryan Blaney capitalized on a two-tire pit strategy to win in overtime on November 2, 2025.

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Chase Point Standings after Charlotte Motor Speedway

RankDriverNoPointsBehindNextRace WinsStage WIns
1Kyle Larson (C)523670029
2Denny Hamlin (C)112318-494945
3Christopher Bell (C)202316-51216
4Chase Briscoe (C)192302-651432
5Ryan Blaney (C)122282-852039
6Joey Logano (C)222275-92734
7Tyler Reddick (C)452253-1142252
8Austin Cindric (C)22222-1453101
9Ty Gibbs (C)542211-1561125
10Carson Hocevar (C)772187-1802410
11Bubba Wallace (C)232182-185502
12Chase Elliott (C)92182-185022
13William Byron (C)242159-2082303
14Daniel Suarez (C)72152-215711
15Chris Buescher (C)172151-216100
16Ryan Preece (C)602140-2271112

Track & Race Information for the Freeway Insurance 500

Season Race #: 33 of 36 (October 18, 2026)
Chase Race #: 7 of 10
Track Size/Type: 1 Mile Asphalt Oval
The Purse: $11,233,037
Banking/Turn 1 & 2: 9 degrees
Banking/Turn 3 & 4: 11 degrees
Banking/Frontstretch: 3 degrees
Banking/Backstretch: 9 degrees

Race Schedule, Length, and Stages for the Freeway Insurance 500

Race Length: 312 laps / 500 Kilometers / 312 Miles
Stage 1 Length: 60 laps
Stage 2 Length: 125 laps (Ends on Lap 185)
Final Stage Length: 127 laps (Ends on Lap 312)

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16

3:30 PM – 4:20 PM: NCTS PRACTICE
4:35 PM – 5:30 PM: NCTS QUALIFYING
7:10 PM: NCTS DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS
7:30 PM: NCTS ZERO CARBON BIOETHANOL 150 POWERED BY POET RACE (STAGES 45/90/150 LAPS = 150 MILES) ON FS2

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17

1:00 PM – 1:50 PM: NOAPS PRACTICE
3:05 PM – 4:00 PM: NOAPS QUALIFYING (IMPOUND)
4:30 PM – 5:20 PM: NCS PRACTICE (IMPOUND) (ALL ENTRIES)
5:35 PM – 6:30 PM: NCS QUALIFYING (IMPOUND)
7:10 PM: NOAPS DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS
7:30 PM: NOAPS TIMBERLAND PRO 200 RACE (STAGES 45/90/200 LAPS = 200 MILES) ON THE CW NETWORK

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18

2:15 PM: NCS DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS (STAGING IN CRESCENT)
3:00 PM: NCS FREEWAY INSURANCE 500 RACE (STAGES 60/185/312 LAPS = 312 MILES) ON THE USA NETWORK

*All times are Eastern. NASCAR Cup Series (NCS), NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS), NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS), ARCA Series (AMS)

Who and what should you look out for at Phoenix Raceway?

Joey Logano leads all active drivers this weekend with four wins (2016, 2020, 2022, 2024), nine of the 32 NCS race winners are active, and four active Chase drivers have won postseason races at Phoenix: Joey Logano with three, Denny Hamlin, Chase Elliott, Kyle Larson, and Ryan Blaney with one each.

Active Phoenix Race WinnersWinsSeasons
Joey Logano42024, 2022, 2020, 2016
Ryan Blaney22026, 2025
Christopher Bell22025, 2024
Denny Hamlin22019, 2012
Ross Chastain12023
William Byron12023
Chase Briscoe12022
Kyle Larson12021
Chase Elliott12020

The first and third starting positions are tied for the most successful in the field. Both produced more winners than any other starting position, with eight each, and the most recent was William Byron’s 2023 win from the third starting position.

StatsWinning %Wins
Winning from the Pole:13.33%8
Winning from the Front Row:20.00%12
Winning from a Top-Five Starting Position:41.67%25
Winning from a Top-10 Starting Position:60.00%36
Winning After Starting Outside the Top 20:6.67%4

The Driver Picks for the Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway!

The Driver Picks for the Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway
  • Christopher Bell has two wins, four top-fives, eight top-10s, and an average finish of 12.077.
  • William Byron has two poles, one win, three top-fives, ten top-10s, and an average finish of 11.882.
  • Chase Briscoe has one win, two top-fives, four top-10s, and an average finish of 20.091.
  • Denny Hamlin has four poles, two wins, 18 top-fives, 25 top-10s, and an average finish of 10.357.
  • Kyle Larson has two poles, one win, 12 top-fives, 16 top-10s, and a series-best average finish of 10.042.

Rossi Hustles IR-28 Through More Development at Sebring

By
Official Release
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SEBRING, Fla. (Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026) – The development of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES’ next-generation IR-28 car moved this week to the bumps and bruises of Sebring International Raceway from earlier testing on the silky-smooth surface of Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Alexander Rossi, who drives full time for Chevrolet-powered ECR, took over testing duties Tuesday at the historic Florida circuit. The 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner continued the evaluation of the car that will debut at the start of the 2028 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.

The Sebring test marks the first opportunity to evaluate the IR-28 away from Indianapolis, following initial sessions on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn road course and 2.5-mile oval in August and September. Five-time and reigning series champion Alex Palou completed 43 laps Monday on Sebring’s outer loop, putting the new car through its paces on a circuit renowned for its punishing surface and demanding mix of asphalt and concrete. Rossi completed 134 laps Tuesday.

Palou, a Honda-powered driver for Chip Ganassi Racing, and Rossi also were chosen to handle testing duties at both IMS configurations.

The two-day Sebring test session represents another important step in the series’ extensive development program, with the IR-28 facing the kind of conditions designed to expose weaknesses long before the car reaches competition.

“It’s a new car for me at Sebring,” Rossi said. “Coming back here and being part of the next generation of INDYCAR’s future is a huge honor. It’s an exciting time in this sport. This car, in so many ways, is a pretty big upgrade from what we have.”

Sebring is a regular testing destination for INDYCAR SERIES teams, in large part because of its unforgiving character. Its bumps, uneven surfaces and relentless demands on vehicle components make it an ideal proving ground for a car expected to compete on road courses, ovals and temporary street circuits. With street circuits accounting for one-third of the 2026 schedule, durability and driver confidence over challenging surfaces remain important considerations in the IR-28’s development.

“What’s good about this place is it’s the poorest-quality surface that you can have in a permanent road course,” Rossi said. “It mimics a street course kind of. Because it’s a permanent road course, it gets used a lot, so it’s a higher grip level than a street course. In terms of bumps, pavement changes, difficult changes in the asphalt, that’s why everyone comes and tests here. It’s somewhat of a preview that you’re going to get in street courses.”

Rossi’s test plan Tuesday focused on evaluating the car’s fundamental systems and performance, building on work completed during earlier sessions at Indianapolis. He worked alongside Dallara and INDYCAR officials.

The testing emphasis has evolved as development has progressed. Initial tests focused on confirming that the car’s systems functioned as expected. At Sebring, the priority was understanding how the package performs over an extended test and identifying issues that might emerge through more extensive running, especially on rough, bumpy surfaces.

“I don’t know that anyone is looking for anything (particular),” Rossi said. “The messaging we get is run the car as if it’s your race car. From there, we’ll see what issues, problems, surprises come out of that. I think all the test list items were really accomplished in the first two tests. Just making sure things worked as you would expect.

“This test is more of a practical application of: ‘Does it perform over a two-day test as the current car does? Does it do what it is expected to and kind of what little things could come out of that we need to address before the series produces a bunch of these?’”

Driver feedback remains central to that process, particularly when it comes to comfort and cockpit cooling. The IR-28 incorporates a more integrated cooling approach, with strategically positioned ducts designed into the initial bodywork rather than added to the existing carbon-fiber structure. Palou reported a significant improvement in cooling during Monday’s running, highlighting progress since the initial Indianapolis tests.

Rossi also experienced the benefits of those improvements at Sebring.

“First of all, visually, it’s an incredible race car to look at,” Rossi said. “It generates more grip in high-speed corners. It’s a very nice car to drive. It’s well-built and incredibly well-engineered. Cooling-wise, we made a pretty big step in this test, in particular. It’s night-and-day different in terms of comfort and drivability in the cockpit.”

Although the car’s competition debut remains more than a year away, the development schedule allows time to address concerns and validate improvements across different types of circuits before the 2028 season begins. Every lap adds another piece to that process, helping ensure the IR-28 can withstand the demands of a race weekend while delivering the performance drivers and fans expect.

“There are more things that are scheduled to come as time comes that will allow this car to race and perform even better, that will only put on a better show for the fans, which is the No. 1 priority for all of us,” Rossi said.

Spire Motorsports Freeway Insurance 500 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In 31 previous NASCAR Cup Series starts at Phoenix Raceway, Spire Motorsports has two top-10 and seven top-20 finishes. Michael McDowell owns both of the team’s top-10 finishes (eighth in 2025 and ninth in 2026). Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the Cup Series with Daniel Suárez, McDowell and Carson Hocevar, respectively.
  • The NASCAR Cup Series will contest the seventh race of The Chase Sunday at Phoenix. Hocevar and Suárez sit 10th and 14th, respectively in the championship standings. McDowell is 20th in points following last week’s race at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.
  • The Freeway Insurance 500 from Phoenix Raceway will be televised live on USA Network Sunday, Oct. 18 beginning at 3 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 33rd of 36 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series calendar will also be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Daniel Suárez – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Daniel Suárez will sport a special Freeway Insurance livery on Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in honor of the brand’s entitlement sponsorship for Sunday’s Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway.
  • Freeway Insurance was established in 1987. Freeway Insurance is one of the largest and fastest-growing personal lines insurance brokers in the United States, offering coverage through a “click, call, or come in” approach that connects customers nationwide. The company continually researches, grows, and diversifies its product offerings to stay responsive to the evolving insurance market. Freeway provides a wide range of options—from basic to premium coverage—in auto, truck, commercial vehicle, homeowners, renters, small business, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, fire, and flood insurance. In 2008, Freeway Insurance became part of Confie, the nation’s leading personal lines insurance distribution company. Customers can access Freeway Insurance through neighborhood offices, online at www.freeway.com, or by calling (800) 300-0227.
  • Spire Motorsports and Daniel Suárez have agreed to a contract extension that will see the veteran driver return to the team’s No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 next season. Through 32 races, he has earned one win, three top-five, seven top-10 and 25 top-20 finishes, with an average starting position of 14.3 and an average finish of 15.2. Entering the seventh of 10 Chase races, Suárez sits 14th in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series championship standings with 2,152 points, 215 markers behind the leader, following last weekend’s race at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.
  • The three-time NASCAR Cup Series winner has made 19 starts at Phoenix, earning four top-10s and nine top 20s. He holds an average starting position of 21.2 and an average finishing position of 19.1 at the one-mile track. In his first NASCAR Cup Series start at Phoenix in 2017, Suárez powered from 27th to seventh to his first career top-10 finish and post his best career Cup result at Phoenix.
  • Earlier this year at Phoenix Raceway, Suárez started fourth and finished seventh in Stage 1 before his day ended on Lap 255 with heavy front-end damage sustained during a multi-vehicle accident.
  • Last week at Charlotte, Suárez started 15th after inclement weather canceled Saturday’s practice and qualifying. He finished 13th in the sixth Chase race, earning his 19th top-15 finish of the season.
  • The 34-year-old driver has made 355 Cup Series starts, highlighted by victories at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway (June 2022), Atlanta Motor Speedway (February 2024) and Charlotte (May 2026). A 10-season veteran of NASCAR’s premier division, he has earned 27 top-five and 82 top-10 finishes since making his Cup Series debut in 2017. Suárez has also led 949 laps and collected three career poles.

Daniel Suárez Quotes
You’re returning to Spire Motorsports for the 2027 season. How pumped are you to continue building with this team, and what are your expectations heading into next year?
“I’m really excited to continue with Spire Motorsports. I believe in this team and, more importantly, the people behind it. We’ve made a lot of progress this year and it’s been rewarding to see how much we’ve grown together. Making the Chase was an important milestone for us and I think it shows what we’re capable of as a team. There’s a lot of talent and determination within this organization and I truly believe in the direction we’re heading. We’ve built a strong foundation, and I’m looking forward to continuing that momentum and seeing what more we can accomplish together.”

What can you take from the spring race at Phoenix to help you this weekend?
“We had good speed here in the spring and learned a lot that we can take into this weekend. We’ll go back through our notebook, look at what worked well, and try to build on that to be even stronger this time around. We’re looking forward to having Freeway Insurance with us for the Freeway Insurance 500 and hopefully put together a solid weekend.”

Ryan Sparks – Crew Chief, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Ryan Sparks is the Crew Chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Freeway Insurance Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 with driver Daniel Suárez in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Sparks has called 234 Cup Series races, earning one victory, seven top-five and 17 top-10 finishes since keying the mic for the first time in NASCAR’s premier division in 2020.
  • The Winston-Salem, N.C., native has called 12 races at Phoenix Raceway, with his highest finish coming alongside driver Justin Haley who placed 14th in November 2025.
  • Sparks joined Spire Motorsports in 2021, where he served as both Crew Chief and Competition Director, leading the organization’s competitive and technical efforts. In 2026, Sparks serves in a singular role as crew chief for Daniel Suárez. He brings more than a decade of experience across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series, highlighted by 13 seasons at Richard Childress Racing and contributions to title-winning campaigns in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (2011) and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (2013).

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

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Tecovas Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway.
  • Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, Tecovas is stewarding the future of the American West. Rooted in time-honored craftsmanship and elevated by thoughtful design, Tecovas creates Western footwear, workwear, apparel, and accessories built for comfort and confidence. With a commitment to quality, timeless design, and radical hospitality.
  • McDowell, a native of Glendale, Ariz., has made 31 attempts in Cup Series competition at his home track, scoring back-to-back top-10 finishes twice. In the fall of 2023, spring of 2024, and most recently in the fall of 2025 and spring of 2026.
  • In five NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, the veteran racer 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.
  • Fans will have two opportunities to meet McDowell and stock up on the latest offerings from Tecovas. Saturday at 6:30pm, McDowell will be at the Tecovas Kierland Commons location (15215 N Kierland Blvd, Suite 135B1A, Scottsdale, AZ 85254) for an autograph session. Fans at track on Sunday can meet the hometown driver at 9:35am at the Tecovas activation in the Fan Zone and enjoy custom brands for leather goods throughout the weekend.
  • Last weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the 41-year-old driver found a home in the top 10 for a portion of the race. A corded right-front tire and contact on pit road hindered the progress of the No. 71 Spire Motorsports machine, resulting in a finish of 19th.
  • Over the first 32 races of the season, the 2021 Daytona 500 Champion has led 24 laps while logging three top-five and six top-10 finishes. He’s recorded a 16.8 average start and a 19.2 average finish. McDowell is currently 20th in points with four races remaining on the 2026 schedule.

Michael McDowell Quote
What makes Phoenix such a dynamic track?
“I feel like Phoenix is unique in its own way. With the ability to run the dog leg, you can see five-wide restarts and different lanes which makes for fun racing. There’s also a lot of intensity being late in The Chase and the season is winding down. It is 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. You want to go out with good momentum, but it is going to be different going to Arizona and not ending the season there. We have shown a lot of speed here in the last few runs with Spire Motorsports, and I am hoping we can capitalize on this weekend. We will have a lot of friends and family coming to the race, so I am excited to see them and hopefully put on a good show based on the notes we have put together earlier this year. I think finishing strong across the last few weeks is really important as we build momentum going into the 2027 season and that momentum can be huge with good runs at Phoenix and Talladega.”

Travis Peterson – Crew Chief, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Travis Peterson owns four top-10 finishes in seven starts at Phoenix Raceway, all with McDowell behind the wheel.
  • Peterson is a mechanical engineering graduate of the Williams States Lee College of Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, earning his degree in 2012.
  • Across 144 starts serving in the crew chief role, the 35-year-old has captured one win, eight poles, 10 top-five and 29 top-10 finishes.
  • 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 as a race engineer 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 Camaro ZL1

  • Carson Hocevar will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chili’s Ride the ‘DenteTM Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway, the seventh of 10 races in The Chase.
  • For the first time since June, it’s time to Ride the ‘DenteTM … Again’te! Hocevar’s black, white and red Chili’s® Grill & Bar design returns for the sixth time this year, featuring pepper vines crawling across the top and sides as an a homage to Chili’s founder Larry Lavine and the fashion sense he displayed in the early days of the 50-year-old restaurant brand.
  • Hocevar and the No. 77 team, alongside teammate Daniel Suarez and Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 team, are competing for 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Championship honors. The opportunity marks the first appearance in The Chase for Hocevar and the first time Spire Motorsports will compete for a Cup Series title. Through six of 10 races in The Chase, the No. 77 team sits 10th in points, 24 markers behind ninth.
  • Through 32 races, the Portage, Mich., native has already set career-highs in multiple categories:
  • Season-to-date results – one win, six top fives, 11 top 10s
  • 198 laps led
  • 812 points scored
  • 12.1 average start
  • 16.1 average finish
  • The 23-year-old driver has been one of the most improved on the circuit throughout the 2026 campaign with average starting and finishing positions that have improved by over five spots compared to this point in 2025. Hocevar is on pace to best his average finish by 5.5 positions by season’s end – the second-best of all drivers – while his 10th position in points is a 13-position increase compared to the end of 2025 – the largest improvement across the field.
  • The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year owns six career NASCAR Cup Series starts at Phoenix, where he secured a venue-best 15th-place finish in March 2024.
  • In his last five starts, Hocevar has only qualified outside the top 10 once and secured qualifying efforts of third (March 2025), sixth (November 2025) and seventh (March 2026) in the last three races in the Arizona desert. His average starting position of 5.33 during that time period is third among all drivers, and the highest without a pole position in that span.
  • In the series’ first of two 2026 trips to Phoenix, the driver of the No. 77 Chevy qualified seventh but was forced to start from the tail of the field after the team discovered an alternator issue in final pre-race checks Sunday morning. Despite a hard driver to reach the top 10 early on, and maintaining that track position for much of the afternoon, handling challenges late in the event hampered Hocevar’s progress, leaving him 20th in the final scoring rundown.
  • The five-time CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race winner owns five previous starts in the series at Phoenix, registering top 10s in 2021 (ninth) and 2022 (10th). Hocevar reached the series’ 2023 Championship 4 race at the facility after punching his ticket via a victory at Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway two weeks prior.
  • Last Sunday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Hocevar started 10th and maintained top-10 track position throughout the afternoon. He ultimately took the checkered flag 14th.
  • Hocevar registered his first-career victory earlier this season at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. He survived a late-race restart with three laps remaining and brought home the checkered flag to register Spire Motorsports’ second Cup Series win and first since the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400.
  • Hi, welcome to Chili’s! A proud leader in the casual dining industry and the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), Chili’s was named Ad Age’s 2025 Brand of the Year. Founded in 1975, Chili’s is known for serving Big Mouth Burgers®, Crispy Chicken Crispers®, and sizzling fajitas, while hand-shaking more margaritas than any other restaurant brand in the United States.
  • Chili’s operates 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two territories with over 70,000 team members. With a purpose to make everyone feel special, Chiliheads take food, drink and service seriously – but not themselves. Chili’s was a proud winner at the 2025 MenuMasters Awards for Best New Menu Item for Nashville Hot Mozz, the breakout addition to the social media-famous Triple Dipper. For more than 20 years, Chili’s has been a proud supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and has raised more than $120 million for the organization through generous guest and team member donations. Find more information at  chilis.com, follow on  X or  Instagram, like on  Facebook, or join Chili’s on  TikTok.

Carson Hocevar Quote
Your results at Phoenix don’t reflect the speed you’ve displayed. How can that change this weekend?
“We have been fast at the flat tracks. We were pretty good at Gateway, which has similar characteristics, so we feel good about it. We have qualified really well there the last couple years, just haven’t necessarily gotten the finishes for one reason or another. Hopefully, we are up front and have an opportunity to get a good finish.”

Luke Lambert – Crew Chief, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Luke Lambert is the Crew Chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series with driver Carson Hocevar.
  • Lambert is in his third season at Spire Motorsports and fourth with Hocevar. The duo has logged two pole awards, one win, nine top-five and 26 top-10 finishes in 112 races.
  • The 16-year veteran crew chief has called 25 NASCAR Cup Series races at Phoenix Raceway, notching one win, three top fives and four top 10s.
  • Phoenix is the site of the 43-year-old’s first-career Cup Series victory as a shot caller, guiding Ryan Newman to Victory Lane at the venue in March 2017. Lambert made the call to stay out and inherit the lead before a lone attempt at NASCAR Overtime. Newman held on to take the checkered flag, beating Kyle Larson to the finish line by 0.312 seconds. The win marked the 18th and final career victory for Newman that ended a 127-race winless streak for the legendary driver and a 112-race winless streak for Richard Childress Racing.
  • The Mount Airy, N.C., native has been atop the war wagon for four NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS) races at the Avondale, Ariz., facility, earning two wins and three top-five finishes. Lambert’s first appearance in Phoenix’s Victory Lane came in March 2012 with Elliot Sadler in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. The win marked his first as a crew chief, the first NOAPS win for Sadler since 2004, and the first of four for the Lambert-Sadler duo in 2012 en route to their championship runner-up effort. Lambert returned to Victory Lane with the series at the one-mile oval 10 years later with Noah Gragson in March 2022. Gragson started second and led 114 of the event’s 200 laps to earn the JR Motorsports pairing’s first of eight victories in 2022.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss, 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 July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

Spire Motorsports Zero Carbon Bioethanol 150 Powered by POET Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In nine NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Phoenix Raceway, Spire Motorsports has earned one top-five and three top-10 finishes. Rajah Caruth earned a team-best fifth-place finish in the 2025 season finale.
  • The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will contend the third race of The Chase Saturday at Charlotte. Spire Motorsports’ Nos. 77 and 7 teams sit sixth and ninth, respectively, in the owner’s point standings.
  • The Zero Carbon Bioethanol 150 Powered by POET from Phoenix Raceway will be televised live on FS2 Friday, Oct. 16 beginning at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 22nd of 25 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Connor Mosack – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Connor Mosack will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Friends of Jaclyn Chevrolet Silverado RST in Friday’s Zero Carbon Bioethanol 150 Powered by POET at Phoenix Raceway.
  • The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for children battling pediatric brain tumors and other childhood cancers and to raise awareness through their Adopt-A-Child, Safe on the Sidelines and Guardian Angel Programs.
  • With just four races remaining to determine the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Owner’s Championship, Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 team sits ninth, 13 markers behind the leader. The team enters Round 22 of 25 with two wins, seven top-five and 11 top-10 finishes. Last Friday at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway, Connor Mosack raced the No. 7 Chevy within the top-10 for most of the afternoon, until damage stemming from a crash on Lap 117 limited the team to a 33rd-place finish.
  • The Charlotte, N.C., native owns a pair of CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Phoenix Raceway, highlighted by an eighth-place result in the 2024 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Championship race behind the wheel of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet. In 2025, Mosack was inside the top 10 when contact in the closing laps caused left-front tire failure, sending him into the turn three wall. He was relegated to a 26th-place finish in McAnally-Hilgemann Racing’s No. 81 Chevrolet.
  • Through 10 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts for Spire Motorsports in 2026, Mosack has earned two top fives and four top 10s, in addition to two Kennametal Pole Awards (Grand Prix of St. Petersburg and Charlotte Motor Speedway) and a 7.4 average starting position. He earned a season-best result in July at Indianapolis Raceway Park, where he qualified seventh en route to a second-place finish.
  • Mosack has found success in both ARCA Menards Series starts at the one-mile facility, earning a 10th-place finish in 2022 and a fourth-place result in 2024.
  • Mosack will be at the controls of Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-085 Friday afternoon in its 10th start. This is the same truck Shane van Gisbergen drove to a third-place finish at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway in July and Connor Zilisch piloted to a fifth-place result at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in August.

Connor Mosack Quote
You have two CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Phoenix Raceway, one resulting in a top-10 finish behind the controls of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet. How do you approach finding the right balance in your truck to compensate for the flat corners to be competitive throughout the race?
“I’ve always enjoyed racing at Phoenix. The corners are wide and there is a lot usable racetrack. You have a lot of options as a driver to help the balance of your truck. We were strong out there in 2024, and with the recent speed we’ve had, there’s no reason we can’t do the same on Friday.”

Brian Pattie – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Brian Pattie is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see an assortment of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2026 season.
  • Pattie has called three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at the Avondale venue, earning a best finish of eighth with Connor Mosack in the 2024 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Championship season finale.
  • The 51-year-old has been atop the box for 28 NASCAR Cup Series events at the “Diamond in the Desert,” collecting two top fives and five top 10s, highlighted by a fourth-place finish with Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., in March 2017.
  • The Zephyrhills, Fla., native knows his way to Phoenix Raceway Victory Lane, as Pattie called Jamie McMurray’s 2004 NASCAR O’Reilly’s Auto Parts Series win at the venue. McMurray led 47 laps, including the final 13, and held off a young Kyle Busch, the day’s dominant driver, in a green-white-checkered finish.
  • Through 98 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races, the veteran crew chief has tallied nine wins, 30 top-five and 47 top-10 finishes along with a 9.9 average start and 13.5 average finish.

Tristan McKee – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Tristan McKee will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Tecovas Chevrolet Silverado RST in Friday’s Zero Carbon Bioethanol 150 Powered by POET at Phoenix Raceway. McKee is the inaugural signee of Spire Motorsports’ Ascent Program and top prospect in the organization’s talent pipeline.
  • Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, Tecovas is stewarding the future of the American West. Rooted in time-honored craftsmanship and elevated by thoughtful design, Tecovas creates Western footwear, workwear, apparel, and accessories built for comfort and confidence. With a commitment to quality, timeless design, and radical hospitality. Tecovas serves customers through tecovas.com, Tecovas stores across the country, and select wholesale partners.
  • With just four races remaining to determine the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Owner’s Championship, Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 team sits sixth in the standings, eight markers behind fifth, with one win, seven top-five and 11 top-10 finishes on the year. Last Friday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Rajah Caruth raced the No. 77 Chevy within the top five for the majority of the evening. Unfortunately, contact on a late-race restart ended the team’s night and were ultimately credited with a 31st-place finish.
  • Friday’s 150-lap event will mark McKee’s fourth-career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start. In his three previous appearances this season, he finished eighth at Richmond (Va.) Raceway, sixth at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and fifth at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway. His 6.3 average finish in the three events marks the second-best among all drivers in that stretch.
  • In just three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races, the young driver is already making history. McKee became the second-youngest driver to make their CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race debut back at Richmond Raceway when he was 16 years and 11 days old. Last time out at Bristol Motor Speedway, he became the youngest driver to finish in the top five of a CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at 16 years, one month and 14 days old. These honors come in addition to earning the nod as the youngest ARCA Menards Series East champion, the youngest Trans Am TA2 Series champion, the youngest winner on the CARS Tour circuit and second-youngest ARCA Menards Series national tour winner.
  • McKee has made two appearances at the Avondale, Ariz., venue on the ARCA Menards Series platform, logging two top-five finishes. His most recent outing led him to a runner-up finish in Pinnacle Racing Groups’ No. 77 Chevrolet in the General Tire 150 this March.
  • The 2026 ARCA Menards Series East Champion will return to the seat of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado to round out his five-race schedule at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway (Oct. 30).
  • McKee will be at the controls of Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-087 Friday evening. Kyle Larson drove the truck to Victory Lane at Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway last March. Most recently, McKee drove the truck to a fourth-place finish at Bristol last month. In 12 starts, the chassis has secured seven top fives, 10 top 10s, a 9.9 average start and 6.3 average finish. SMT-087 has not finished outside the top 10 in eight races, dating back to Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway in May 2025.

Tristan McKee Quote
You’ve already earned a top five finish in your first three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts, and you finished runner-up in your lone ARCA Menards Series start at Phoenix Raceway. How will you build on that experience as you return to Phoenix behind the wheel of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado?
“I am really looking forward to getting back in the truck with the No. 77 group this weekend. I know I will be able to use my previous starts at Phoenix to my advantage, but I am hoping to continue the success we have had in our previous starts. Hopefully we can get another top-five finish for Spire Motorsports and continue to learn on these bigger tracks.”

Chad Walter – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Chad Walter is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see multiple all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2026 season.
  • Walter has called eight CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at Phoenix Raceway, earning a venue-best seventh-place result with Corey LaJoie in the 2025 season finale.
  • The Albion, N.Y., native has seen his fair share of success atop the pit box at the “Diamond in the Desert” in O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition. He led Sam Hornish Jr. to victory at the one-mile oval in November 2011 and, just four months later, called Brad Keselowski’s runner-up finish in March 2012.
  • Between NASCAR’s O’Reilly Auto Parts and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, Walter has dialed up seven wins, 61 top fives and 149 top 10s.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss 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 July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

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

By
Official Release
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THE RACE: Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100
THE PLACE: Phoenix Raceway
THE DATE: Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026
THE TIME: 11 pm ET / 8 pm PT
TV: FloRacing, Live

ARCA Menards Series West at The Bullring at Phoenix Raceway:
Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 Pre-race Notes

  • The ARCA Menards Series West heads to Phoenix Raceway for round 12 of its 13-race 2026 season. It is the second time the series has raced at Phoenix this year, and the 57th time in history the series has raced at the one-mile oval.
  • Trevor Huddleston (No. 50 High Point Racing / Racecar Factory Ford) enters the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 with a 40-point lead over Robbie Kennealy (No. 1 Jan’s Towing / Jan’s Racing Ford) with just two races remaining in the 2026 ARCA Menards West season. Huddleston finished a career-best fourth at Phoenix in March, while Kennealy has three straight Phoenix top-ten finishes including a sixth-place result in this race last fall.
  • Carson Brown won the ARCA Menards Series / ARCA Menards West combination race at Phoenix Raceway in March, holding off a hard charge from his Pinnacle Racing Group teammate Tristan McKee. PRG has entered two cars in the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100, but neither Brown nor McKee will be behind the wheel. Helio Meza (No. 28 Alessandros / Heraldo Media Chevrolet) will make his second ARCA Menards West start for the team this week; he started from the Sioux Chief PowerPEX Pole in his debut at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last week before being derailed by a cut tire. He will be joined by Taylor Reimer (No. 82 Fre Nicotine Pouches Chevrolet), who finished 12th in this race last year driving for Nitro Motorsports.
  • Max Reaves (No. 18 Cook Out Toyota) will be looking to close Joe Gibbs Racing’s chapter in the ARCA Menards Series platform with its eleventh win of the 2026 season. Reaves has scored four ARCA Menards Series wins and two in the ARCA Menards East, while teammate Gio Ruggiero has four ARCA Menards Series wins as well. The team has announced it will cease ARCA Menards Series operations to focus on its NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series teams in 2027. Reaves finished ninth in his only previous start at Phoenix in March.
  • The Bill McAnally Racing duo of Hailie Deegan (No. 16 Monster Chevrolet) and Mason Massey (No. 19 Mongoose Power Solutions Chevrolet) looks to rebound from a disappointing end to their collective night at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Deegan suffered from a cut tire that sent her into the outside wall as the leader was coming to take the white flag that sent the race into overtime, resulting in a 16th-place finish. Massey looked to capitalize on the overtime attempt and was battling for the win off the final corner when he and Kennealy came together, sending him up the track and into Huddleston, with both drivers spinning out of contention. Massey recovered to finish sixth but fell to third in the ARCA Menards West standings. Deegan has a best finish of fourth at Phoenix in 2019, while Massey finished fifth at Phoenix in March, his only previous West start at the track.
  • Nitro Motorsports has entered six drivers in the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100: Landon Brown (No. 10 University of Kentucky Toyota), Mia Lovell (No. 15 Pine Health Toyota), Kasey Kleyn (No. 20 Thaemert Farms Toyota), Gavan Boschele (No. 25 Toyota Racing Toyota), Jade Avedisian (No. 70 Mobil 1 Toyota) and Wesley Slimp (No. 90 Road Ready Foundation Toyota). Brown and Kleyn will be making their West series debut.
  • Dystany Spurlock (No. 66 Charles Schwab Bank Ford) will make her ARCA Menards West debut in the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100. She finished seventh in her ARCA Menards East debut at Hickory Speedway and tenth in her ARCA Menards Series debut at Kansas Speedway earlier this season.
  • There are an ARCA Menards West record six female drivers entered: Isabella Robusto (No. 2 Random Racing Club / PHOOZY / Roto-Rooter Toyota), Mia Lovell, Hailie Deegan, Dystany Spurlock, Jade Avedisian, and Taylor Reimer. The previous record, set at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2021, was five (Jolynn Wilkinson, Mariah Boudrieau, Bridget Burgess, Amber Slagle, and Amber Balcaen).
  • The race will be conducted under the Break Pit Stop format; there will be a scheduled caution at or near lap 50 with a five-minute break to allow teams to change tires, add fuel, make adjustments and/or any repairs. The teams will be allotted ten tires to use how they see fit for the event.
  • Previous ARCA Menards West winners at Phoenix Raceway include Cale Yarborough (1977), Richard Petty (1978, 1980, 1981), Neil Bonnett (1979), Bobby Allison (1982), Ron Eaton (1983), Bill Schmitt (1984), Rich Woodland (1998), Mike Wallace (1999), Kevin Richards (2000), Ken Schrader (2001, 203, 2004, 2006), Austin Cameron (2002), Scott Lynch (2003, 2004), David Gilliland (2005, 2020), Burney Lamar (2005), Andrew Myers (2006), Joey Logano (2007), Mike David (2008), Jason Bowles (2009), Eric Holmes (2010), Greg Pursley (2010, 2011, 2013), Ryan Blaney (2012), David Mayhew (2012), Michael Self (2012), gray Gaulding (2013), Cole Custer (2014), Nick Drake (2014), Todd Gilliland (2015), Ty Gibbs (2019, 2021 – 2), Taylor Gray (2022), Sammy Smith (2022), Tyler Reif (2023), William Sawalich (2023, 2024), Connor Zilisch (2024), Brent Crews (2025 -2), and Carson Brown (2026).
  • Sammy Smith holds the ARCA Menards West track qualifying record at Phoenix Raceway, set in 2022, at 26.570 seconds / 135.491 miles per hour.
  • Scott Lynch holds the ARCA Menards West track race record, set in 2003, at 114.262 miles per hour.
  • ARCA Menards West races at Phoenix Raceway have gone into overtime on 14 previous occasions. Should the race be extended into overtime, it will conclude with unlimited attempts at a two-lap green flag followed by white flag followed by checkered flag finish. Should the caution flag be displayed after the white flag is displayed, there will be unlimited attempts at a one-lap green and white flag together followed by checkered flag finish.
  • The Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 is set for 11 pm ET / 8 pm PT on Saturday, October 17. The race will be streamed live on FloRacing. 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!
 
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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.

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