BFGoodrich has launched the Advantage Control HT tire with performance and sizing that fit the needs of everyday drivers. Clear-cut benefits and accessible pricing help make the tire-buying process easy for consumers.
Tire solution for CUVs, SUVs and light-duty pickups
BFGoodrich performance at an everyday price
Advantage Control HT adds 22 sizes to Advantage Control line
BFGoodrich has launched the Advantage Control HT tire with performance and sizing that fit the needs of everyday drivers. Clear-cut benefits and accessible pricing help make the tire-buying process easy for consumers.
“BFGoodrich created the Advantage Control HT tire to simplify tire buying for modern drivers,” said Andrew Besancon, Senior Director of Recreational Brands. “This new tire provides consumers a comfortable, dependable option for everyday driving.”
The Advantage Control HT tire features a redesigned tread pattern, designed for a quieter, smoother ride. The Advantage Control HT tire also boasts improved braking distances – in both wet and dry conditions – and a 10% improvement in tread life compared with its predecessor, the Advantage Sport LT tire.
Excellent wet traction: The Advantage Control HT tire stops up to 9 feet shorter in wet conditions than the predecessor tire. Active sipe technology, all-season rubber compounds and a proprietary groove network are engineered to evacuate water from the contact patch and deliver outstanding grip year-round.
Long life span: The Advantage Control HT tire offers increased tread life (vs. predecessor tire) for today’s larger CUVs, full-size SUVs, and light duty pickups. The Advantage Control HT tire features an optimized footprint, full-depth tread features and silica-infused compounds, which work together to help deliver consistent performance and a smooth ride for the life of the tire.
Quiet comfort: The Advantage Control HT tire is designed for a quiet, enjoyable ride, thanks to its redesigned tread pattern.
Sizes and availability BFGoodrich will unveil 22 sizes of the Advantage Control HT tire, bringing the total number of sizes in the Advantage Control line to 122. The Advantage Control HT tire carries a 70,000-mile limited mileage warranty and a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
To find your size, availability and pricing, visit bfgoodrichtires.com or your local BFGoodrich dealer.
About BFGoodrich Tires BFGoodrich Tires is dedicated to providing high performance tires for those who have a passion for driving in virtually any environment. Combining technical expertise with 50 years of motorsports experience, BFGoodrich delivers tires for a full range of driving experiences from ultra-high-performance street to off-road terrain with one common theme – extreme performance. Come upgrade your performance with BFGoodrich and see where our tires can take you at BFGoodrichTires.com and BFGoodrichRacing.com, as well as on Facebook and Instagram at @BFGoodrichTires and TikTok at @BFGoodrich.
Saturday, April 5 — NASCAR Xfinity Series, 3:30 p.m. ET (CW) Sunday, April 6 — NASCAR Cup Series, 3 p.m. ET (FS1)
Ford comes into this weekend’s Throwback Weekend at Darlington Raceway with 34 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins on the egg-shaped oval, including a sweep last year with Brad Keselowski and Chase Briscoe. Bill Elliott has the most wins in a Ford with five while David Pearson registered eight of his record 10 career wins in Ford Motor Co. products (6 Mercury and 2 Ford).
FORD GOING FOR THREE STRAIGHT
Ford won both NASCAR Cup Series races at Darlington last year and completed a season sweep for the first time since 1999. A win this weekend would also mark the first time Ford has won three straight at “The Lady in Black” since 1961-62 when it captured four in a row. Brad Keselowski (2018 and 2024) and Joey Logano (2022) are the only current Ford drivers to post a Cup win at Darlington.
KESELOWSKI SCORES FIRST WIN FOR MUSTANG DARK HORSE;
FIRST AS DRIVER/OWNER
In 2024, Brad Keselowski passed Chris Buescher and Tyler Reddick with nine laps to go after those two made contact battling for the lead to capture last year’s Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway. It was the first race win for the then new Ford Mustang Dark Horse. The win represented the first for Keselowski since he became co-owner with Jack Roush and snapped a 110-race winless streak. Keselowski qualified second and was a fixture at the front of the field all afternoon. He finished third in Stage 1, second in Stage 2, and completed the progression as he led five times for 37 laps on the day.
THROWING BACK TO FORD’S FIRST INDY 500 WIN WITH THE WOOD BROTHERS
In celebration of its 75th Anniversary, Wood Brothers Racing and driver Josh Berry will be competing with a paint scheme that Jim Clark won with in the 1965 Indianapolis 500. Ford recruited the Wood Brothers to pit Clark’s Lotus because of how they revolutionized NASCAR pit stops and the move paid off as the team’s quick stops were a factor in winning. The British Green and yellow livery was unveiled two weeks ago at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, MI, and highlights Ford’s first win at Indy and the first for a rear-engine car.
OTHER FORD CUP SERIES THROWBACK SCHEMES
Austin Cindric, No. 2 Dale Earnhardt (1979-80) Ryan Blaney, No. 12 Dave Blaney (2006 Xfinity) Joey Logano, No. 22 Cale Yarborough (1976) Cole Custer, No. 41 Jimmy Spencer (2000) Cody Ware, No. 51 Ward Burton (Late 1990s)
RYAN BLANEY: “It is a tough place. I think it’s one of the toughest places we go, more mentally than anything for me. I just feel like the mental mush that your brain is in after leaving that race is pretty high because your concentration level is at 110 percent the whole time. I kind of relate it to Homestead in a way, but Homestead is a lot wider. You have more room for error, unless you’re pinned on the fence, but Darlington it just sneaks up on you more. There’s less room to work, so I think that’s what makes that place so difficult and the two ends being vastly different is definitely a challenge. I haven’t finished a race at Darlington in about a year either, so I hope to do that.”
JOSH BERRY: “Darlington is always a tough one. If you have a good car, you look like a hero. If you have a bad car, you don’t. It’s that kind of thing. Last year, I had two really good cars there and ran really well. We didn’t get the finish we wanted in the Southern 500 with an accident there at the end, but I feel good about it. We ran third in the spring. If we can translate some of what I learned last year and apply it to the 21 car, hopefully we can have a good day.”
LOGANO PICKS UP FIRST DARLINGTON WIN
Joey Logano passed William Byron with two laps to go to win the Goodyear 400 in 2022 for his first NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season and first at Darlington Raceway. Logano dominated the Throwback Weekend, capturing the pole on Saturday and then winning the first stage before green flag pit stops and race strategy took over. He went on to lead eight times for 107 laps, most among all drivers, and dueled with Byron for the win over the final 26 laps.
DARLINGTON MASTER
David Pearson holds the record for most NASCAR Cup Series wins at Darlington Raceway with 10. Eight of those wins came in Ford Motor Co. products, winning six times driving the famed No. 21 Wood Brothers Mercury (1972,’74,’76-2,’77). He won the Southern 500 twice in that span (1976-77), and two more times in a Holman-Moody Ford (1968 and ’70). Pearson won three Southern 500 titles, capturing his third in 1979.
CREED AND MAYER RINGING UP TOP FIVE FINISHES
Haas Factory Team teammates Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer continued their consistent starts when they both registered top five finishes at Martinsville for the second straight week. Creed was able to survive the final lap mayhem to finish second while Mayer ended up fifth, flipping their results from the previous week at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Mayer is second in the point standings and has finished in the top 10 six times in seven races, including five straight, while Creed is fourth overall with back-to-back top five runs. The two have finished in the top five of the same race three times.
MARTIN ALL-TIME DARLINGTON NXS WINNER
Mark Martin is Darlington’s all-time winningest driver in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, having won eight times during his Hall of Fame career. He won 8-of-15 series races from 1993-2000, which included a pair of three-race winning streaks (1993-94, 1999-2000) and consecutive triumphs in 1995-96. Overall, Ford has won 19 times at the “Track Too Tough to Tame”, including a stretch where Martin (3), Jeff Burton (3) and Jeff Green (1) combined to win seven straight.
Huntersville, N.C. (Apr. 1, 2025) –23XI Racing announced today that Robinhood has joined the team as an official partner. As a leading financial services platform that has democratized access to the markets for millions of investors, Robinhood enables customers to take control of their finances, putting them in the driver’s seat of their financial futures.
At select NASCAR Cup Series races this season, Bubba Wallace and 23XI development driver Corey Heim will pilot Robinhood-branded cars. For the remainder of the season, Robinhood branding will also be placed on Wallace’s and Heim’s uniforms and team equipment.
With a shared interest in relentless innovation and creating platforms that are accessible to all, the partnership will showcase both brands to current fans and new audiences throughout the season. The paint scheme, inspired by Robinhood’s bold and disruptive spirit and highlighted with Robin Neon, will debut with Heim and the No. 67 team at Kansas Speedway in May and run at three subsequent events this season with the No. 67 and No. 23 teams. Robinhood will also continue to put fans first through brand activations and premium race experiences.
“We’re excited to welcome Robinhood to 23XI and look forward to introducing another new brand to NASCAR,” said team president Steve Lauletta. “As Robinhood continues to expand their presence in sports, we’re proud to partner with them and look forward to bringing the intensity of NASCAR racing to their growing customer base.”
“Our team continues to do a great job of partnering with exciting brands that share our values and believe in us,” said Bubba Wallace, driver of the No. 23 Toyota Camry XSE. “Robinhood’s dedication to market accessibility and financial literacy is important for so many people, and I look forward to representing them on track this season.”
“Robinhood is excited to enter into the motorsports space, and there’s no better partner who shares our relentless drive to innovate in bold and unique ways than 23XI,” said Steve Quirk, Chief Brokerage Officer at Robinhood. “By expanding our presence into motorsports, we’re able to reach a passionate, engaged fanbase that’s hungry to take control of all aspects of their lives, including their finances, while also supporting Bubba Wallace, Corey Heim and the rest of the 23XI team as they continue their success this racing season.”
The partnership with 23XI will be Robinhood’s first entry into motorsports. The company also has jersey patch partnerships in the NBA with the Miami Heat, Memphis Grizzlies, and Washington Wizards. KLUTCH Sports Group played a key role in advising throughout the deal process.
About Robinhood Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD) transformed financial services by introducing commission-free stock trading and democratizing access to the markets for millions of investors. Today, Robinhood lets you trade stocks, options, futures (which includes options on futures, swaps, and event contracts), and crypto, invest for retirement, and earn with Robinhood Gold. Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, Robinhood puts customers in the driver’s seat, delivering unprecedented value and products intentionally designed for a new generation of investors. Additional information about Robinhood can be found at www.robinhood.com.
About 23XI Racing 23XI Racing – pronounced twenty-three eleven – was founded by NBA legend Michael Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin in 2020. With rising NASCAR star Bubba Wallace selected to drive the No. 23 Toyota Camry, the team made its NASCAR Cup Series debut in the 2021 Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Wallace made history on October 4, 2021, when he captured his first career Cup Series win, becoming just the second African American to win in the Cup Series, and earning 23XI its first-ever victory. 23XI expanded to a two-car organization in 2022 with Cup Series Champion Kurt Busch driving the No. 45 Toyota Camry. With a win at Kansas Speedway in May of 2022, Busch earned 23XI the team’s first-ever playoff berth. In 2024, Tyler Reddick won the Regular Season Championship and raced to a spot in the Championship 4, a first for both the team and Reddick. 23XI currently features the lineup of Bubba Wallace in the No. 23 Toyota Camry XSE, Tyler Reddick in the No. 45 Toyota Camry XSE, Riley Herbst in the No. 35 Toyota Camry XSE and Corey Heim as the team’s development driver. The team operates out of Airspeed, a state-of-the-art facility in Huntersville, N.C. that opened in January of 2024.
Ever found yourself stranded in a parking lot, frantically searching for your car key fob that seemingly vanished into thin air? In that moment, a key programming machine could have been the difference between a minor inconvenience and a full-blown ordeal for you or your locksmith! As automotive security systems grow increasingly sophisticated, key programming machines have become essential tools for working with virtually all car types on the market today. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore exceptional key programming machines that offer outstanding compatibility across a wide range of vehicles.
Key Programming Machines at a Glance
Machine Name
Price Range
Vehicle Coverage
Best Feature
Ideal User
Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro
$3,000–$3,500
Extensive
All-in-one solution
Professional locksmith
XTOOL X100 PAD3
$1,200–$1,500
Very Good
Tablet interface
Mobile technician
OBDSTAR X300 DP Plus
$1,200–$2,100
Excellent
Multi-brand support
General auto shop
Launch X431 IMMO Elite
$1,500–$2,000
Very Good
Diagnostic integration
Full-service garage
Xhorse VVDI Key Tool Max
$500–$800
Good
Portability
Small shop/mobile service
CGDI Prog MB
$600–$900
Mercedes + Others
Mercedes specialization
Luxury car specialist
Autel MaxiIM IM508
$800–$1,000
Good
Value for money
Entry-level professional
Yanhua Mini ACDP Master
$300–$1,000
Modular
Precision for luxury brands
Boutique specialist
Lonsdor K518ISE
$1,200–$1,800
Excellent
Global vehicle support
International service center
SKP-900
$200–$400
Basic
Affordability
DIY enthusiast
Why Key Programming Machines Are a Must-Have
The humble car key has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades. What began as a simple piece of cut metal has evolved into complex transponder chips and smart fobs that communicate wirelessly with your vehicle’s computer systems. This evolution has created new demands for specialized equipment capable of interfacing with these advanced security features.
Key programming machines have become indispensable for:
Professional locksmiths need to quickly service diverse client vehicles
Auto repair shops seeking to expand their service offerings
Car owners who frequently need replacement keys or additional copies
Dealerships handling multiple makes and models
The ability to work with “all cars” is perhaps the most valuable feature of modern key programming machines, offering versatility and convenience that specialized tools simply cannot match.
What Makes a Great Key Programming Machine?
Before diving into specific models, let’s establish what separates the best key programming machines from the rest:
Vehicle Coverage
A truly outstanding key programming machine works seamlessly across multiple makes and models, including domestic, Asian, and European vehicles. The broader the coverage, the more valuable the tool becomes for professionals and car owners alike.
Functionality
Top-tier machines go beyond basic key programming to offer comprehensive functionality, including:
Transponder programming and cloning
Remote control programming
Immobilizer system diagnostics
ECU coding capabilities
All-key-lost solutions
User-Friendliness
Even the most feature-rich programmer is worthless if it’s too complicated to use. The best key programming machines balance powerful capabilities with intuitive interfaces suitable for both experienced professionals and relative beginners.
Price Point
Key programming equipment represents a significant investment. The ideal machine delivers maximum value relative to its cost, with the most expensive option not necessarily being the best for every user’s needs.
Support and Updates
As manufacturers continuously release new vehicle models with updated security systems, regular software updates are essential to maintain compatibility. Strong customer support and consistent update availability significantly enhance a programmer’s long-term value.
Top 10 Key Programming Machines for All Cars
1. OBDStar – DC706
From the innovative OBDStar key programmer collection, the DC706 model has established itself as a powerful and versatile key programming solution for professional locksmiths and automotive technicians looking for comprehensive coverage across multiple vehicle platforms.
Key Features:
Wide compatibility with both domestic and imported vehicles, including specialized support for commercial vehicles
Advanced ECU coding and immobilizer bypass capabilities
Built-in transponder generation for multiple key systems
Integrated VIN recognition and key matching systems
Portable design with ruggedized housing for field operations
One-click firmware updates via Wi-Fi connectivity
Pros: Exceptional value for comprehensive vehicle coverage, intuitive menu navigation, and robust construction designed for daily professional use.
Cons: Advanced features may require additional training for novice users, and certain specialized vehicles may need optional adapter purchases.
2. Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro
The Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro stands as the undisputed flagship choice for professional locksmiths and auto technicians who demand comprehensive immobilizer and diagnostic capabilities. This powerhouse tool has established itself as the gold standard in the industry.
Key Features:
Exceptional vehicle coverage spanning North American, European, and Asian manufacturers
Advanced IMMO functions, including key learning, ECU coding, and all-key-lost solutions
Intelligent mode that guides users through complex programming procedures
Regular cloud-based updates that keep pace with new vehicle releases
Integrated XP400 key programmer and IMMO adapter set
Pros: Unmatched comprehensive functionality, professional-grade build quality, intuitive interface, and extensive support resources.
Cons: Premium price point may be prohibitive for individual users or small operations.
3. XTOOL X100 PAD3
The XTOOL X100 PAD3 delivers impressive tablet-style programming capabilities at a significantly more approachable price point, making it a favorite among mid-sized shops and mobile technicians.
Key Features:
Support for both CAN FD and DOIP protocols for newer vehicles
Multi-system diagnostic capabilities beyond just key programming
Android-based operating system with regular OTA updates
Supports both basic key programming and advanced immobilizer functions
User-friendly tablet interface with vivid display
Pros: Excellent value proposition, convenient form factor, and quick operation for common vehicles.
Cons: May require additional adapters for certain luxury models and specialized functions.
4. Launch X431 IMMO Elite
The Launch X431 IMMO Elite approaches key programming from a diagnostics-first perspective, offering strong all-around capabilities that make it ideal for full-service automotive shops.
Key Features:
Anti-theft matching systems for complex security protocols
Multi-language support for international technicians
Comprehensive bi-directional control capabilities
Combined OBD diagnostic and key programming functions
Regular manufacturer-supported updates
Pros: Excellent versatility across multiple automotive systems beyond just key programming.
Cons: Updates for rare or exotic models sometimes lag behind competitors.
5. Xhorse VVDI Key Tool Max
The Xhorse VVDI Key Tool Max delivers impressive functionality in a compact, portable solution that’s perfect for quick key jobs and mobile locksmiths.
Key Features:
Remote key generation for multiple vehicle types
Transponder chip copying and programming
Bluetooth connectivity for mobile device pairing
Budget-friendly pricing with optional expansion modules
VVDI Mini OBD Tool supports expanded capabilities
Pros: Highly portable, excellent cost-to-capability ratio, and perfect for small shops with space constraints.
Cons: Limited diagnostic capabilities compared to full-sized units.
6. CGDI Prog MB (Mercedes-Benz Key Programmer)
While the CGDI Prog MB specializes in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, its adaptable platform supports other brands, making it an excellent choice for luxury vehicle specialists.
Key Features:
Ultra-fast key programming for Mercedes models
All-key-lost support without disassembly
Online calculation services for security data
ELV simulator functionality for advanced repairs
Expanding compatibility with non-Mercedes vehicles
Pros: Unparalleled Mercedes-Benz support with growing capabilities for other manufacturers.
Cons: Primary focus remains on Mercedes, making it less ideal as an all-purpose solution.
7. Autel MaxiIM IM508
As the more affordable sibling to the IM608, the Autel MaxiIM IM508 delivers core immobilizer programming functions without the premium price tag.
Key Features:
IMMO key programming for most common vehicle models
Basic diagnostic capabilities for related systems
XP200 key programmer compatibility
Wide coverage of domestic and imported vehicles
Regular software updates via Autel’s support network
Pros: Cost-effective entry into the Autel ecosystem with solid fundamental capabilities.
Cons: Lacks some of the advanced features found in professional-grade models.
8. Yanhua Mini ACDP Master
The Yanhua Mini ACDP Master takes a modular approach to key programming, allowing technicians to purchase only the specific modules needed for their clientele.
Key Features:
Supports specialized programming for BMW, Porsche, Mercedes, and more
Smartphone app-based interface for modern technicians
Key programming without vehicle disassembly in many cases
Module-based expansion system for customized capabilities
Detailed step-by-step guidance for complex procedures
Pros: Highly specific and effective for supported vehicles with excellent technical depth.
Cons: Requires additional module purchases for comprehensive coverage.
9. Lonsdor K518ISE
The Lonsdor K518ISE has established itself as a robust all-in-one programmer with exceptional compatibility across global vehicle brands.
Key Features:
Advanced key programming across European, American, and Asian vehicles
Pros: Broad functionality across multiple systems and excellent international vehicle support.
Cons: Some users report a steeper learning curve compared to other programmers.
10. SKP-900 Key Programmer
The SKP-900 is the budget-friendly option in our lineup, offering basic programming capabilities at an accessible price.
Key Features:
Supports older model vehicles with less complex security
Simple operation is ideal for beginners
No tokens or limitations on programming attempts
Compact size for easy storage and transport
Multilingual menu system for international users
Pros: Highly affordable entry point for basic key programming needs.
Cons: Limited support for newer vehicle protocols and advanced security features.
Tips for Maximizing Your Key Programming Machine
To get the most from your key programming investment, consider these practical tips:
Always verify your car’s make/model compatibility via VIN before attempting programming
Update your programmer’s software regularly to ensure compatibility with the latest security protocols
If you’re new to key programming, start with basic functions before attempting advanced procedures
Create a database of successful programming procedures for future reference
Consider purchasing additional adapters for specialized vehicles in your service area
Key programming machines represent a serious financial commitment — entry-level units like the SKP-900 start around $200, while professional-grade solutions such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro can exceed $3,500. Before purchasing, experienced technicians recommend cross-referencing independent review platforms to verify real-world compatibility claims and user-reported reliability, much like how players in adjacent industries vet platforms through resources like casinostrider-it before committing funds. Checking verified buyer feedback, update frequency history, and manufacturer support response times can save thousands in poor investment decisions.
Safety Tip: Always follow manufacturer guidelines precisely when working with vehicle electronics. Improper procedures can potentially damage sensitive systems and lead to costly repairs.
For additional guidance, many key programming machine manufacturers offer extensive video tutorials and technical support resources that can help you master your specific device.
Summing Up
In today’s automotive landscape, key programming machines have become indispensable tools for anyone working with car keys and security systems. For locksmiths handling dozens of vehicles each day or auto shops seeking to enhance their offerings, a suitable key programming system boosts their ability to service all cars effectively.
Your specific needs should guide your selection process. Professional locksmiths might gravitate toward comprehensive solutions such as the Autel IM608 Pro or the OBDSTAR X300 DP Plus. DIY enthusiasts and occasional users might find the Xhorse VVDI Key Tool Max or SKP-900 more appropriate. Luxury-vehicle specialists will appreciate the precision of the CGDI Prog MB or the Yanhua Mini ACDP Master.
Whatever your choice, investing in a quality key programming machine that works with all cars will quickly pay dividends through expanded service capabilities and customer satisfaction.
Moves Further Establish NASCAR’s Long-Term Leadership and Ensures Continuity in the Vision and Growth of a Global Sports Leader
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 31, 2025) — NASCAR today announced the appointment of Steve Phelps as Commissioner of NASCAR, the first to be named to this newly created role overseeing all aspects of America’s top motorsport, including the International Motorsports Association (IMSA) and all 15 NASCAR-owned or operated tracks. Additionally, Steve O’Donnell, long-time industry leader and current Chief Operating Officer, will succeed Phelps in the critical role of NASCAR President with day-to-day leadership of all three NASCAR National Series and all NASCAR commercial, media and track operations, as well as its four international series and multiple local and grassroots properties. Both roles are effective immediately and will be based in Daytona Beach, Fla.
“We are thrilled to name Steve Phelps as NASCAR’s first Commissioner. His leadership, professionalism and well-earned respect from across the sports industry speak to his unique value for the sport,” said NASCAR Chairman & CEO, Jim France. “With more than 50 years of expertise between them, both Steve Phelps and Steve O’Donnell bring tremendous expertise, stability and a commitment to the bold racing innovations that will continue to serve fans, teams and stakeholders for many years to come.”
Currently in his 20th season in NASCAR, Phelps will lead all functions of the sport with a specific focus on strategic growth and international expansion while continuing to work directly with NASCAR owners, Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy. Commissioner Phelps will work across the NASCAR ecosystem to provide value to all stakeholders while increasing global fan engagement. Phelps joined NASCAR in 2005 and has served as the fifth president in the sport’s 77-year history since taking the position in 2018.
“I’m honored to take this next step in helping to guide NASCAR, the sport I’ve loved since my father took me to my first race at five years old, continue to grow and welcome new fans, competitors and partners that together create some of the most extraordinary moments in sports,” Phelps said. “I cannot thank the France family enough for their unwavering commitment to our fans, their steady leadership, and most importantly, their stewardship of stock car racing since its inception nearly eight decades ago. This sport is truly one of the great American business stories and I’m privileged to continue as part of that legacy – and especially its bright future.”
As only NASCAR’s sixth President, Steve O’Donnell will take over everyday management of the sport with a focus on continuing to deliver historically exciting racing, exceptional partnership value and a world-class fan experience at every NASCAR national series event throughout the season. Leveraging more than three decades of experience at NASCAR where he has held many roles throughout the company from Marketing to Competition, O’Donnell’s scope will be expanded to include all operations, competition and commercial business for the sanctioning body.
“In my 30 years in NASCAR, I’ve been most inspired by the passion of race fans at tracks across the country. It has been a privilege to help bring our sport to those fans through incredible new venues and innovative engaging content that showcase the best racing in our storied history,” said O’Donnell. “I believe we’re the best in the world at creating ‘Bucket List’ events that merge sports and entertainment with tailgating, camping and the most immersive fan experience in sports. I’m honored to continue that mission and build upon the collaboration and innovation with our teams and partners to deliver the best racing to sports fans everywhere.”
With his increased leadership responsibilities, O’Donnell will drive continued innovation and engagement for NASCAR’s key stakeholders, fans and employees, creating a center of excellence for ongoing growth and mutual success across the sport and its increasingly global audience. He will also oversee the sport’s major investments in content creation and distribution through the new NASCAR Production Facility in North Carolina and the Emmy-Award winning NASCAR Studios team with its upcoming slate of scripted and unscripted content aimed at bringing fans even closer to the stars and stories of NASCAR.
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 Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.
For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.
LEGACY MOTOR CLUB will not appeal the disqualification of the No. 43 car following Sunday’s race at Martinsville Speedway. We understand NASCAR allows a clear margin to account for the difference in pre- and post-race weight. After a thorough audit by the CLUB today, we have concluded that we did not give ourselves enough margin to meet the post-race requirement. Although it was not intentional, we are taking steps internally to prevent this from happening again. We therefore accept the penalty and apologize to NASCAR, our partners and our fans.
ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: (LEGACY MC) is a premier auto racing organization co-owned by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmie Johnson and Knighthead Capital Management, LLC. Drawing from a rich tradition of success, LEGACY MC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and setting new standards of excellence. The CLUB competes under the Toyota Gazoo Racing banner in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE piloted by Erik Jones and the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE driven by John Hunter Nemechek. Johnson also races on a limited basis in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. With NASCAR legend and Hall of Famer Richard Petty, “The King”, serving as CLUB Ambassador, LEGACY MC blends timeless racing traditions with a new forward-thinking vision. As an inclusive community for motorsport enthusiasts, LEGACY MC honors both its storied past and the promising future of its members, always striving for victory and championship glory at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition.
Justin Allgaier is one of the four eligible drivers in the Xfinity Dash for Cash at Bristol's SciAps 300 on Saturday April 12. Allgaier has already pocketed $100,000 from the program this season with his win in Homestead-Miami.
BRISTOL, Tenn. (March 31, 2025) – A pair of big money bonus races will raise the stakes significantly for at least five drivers heading into racing action during the Food City 500 weekend, April 11-13.
NASCAR has posted hefty bonuses in the Xfinity Dash for Cash, which will offer a $100,000 payday to any one of the four top finishers from the recent Xfinity Series event in Martinsville, and the Triple Truck Challenge, which will pay $50,000 to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race winner.
Unless that winner is Daniel Hemric, who won recently in Martinsville. If Hemric doubles-up he will claim $150,000 for a Bristol victory. If he sweeps the entire three-race series, which concludes in Rockingham on April 18, he will earn a cool $500,000. Any other championship-contending Truck Series driver to win at Bristol will earn $50,000.
In the Xfinity Dash for Cash, Austin Hill, Sheldon Creed, Justin Allgaier and Brennan Poole – the top four finishers from Martinsville – will decide who receives the $100,000 bonus at Bristol. The driver in that foursome who posts the best finish will receive the cash.
Justin Allgaier and Austin Hill have claimed the first two Xfinity Dash for Cash bonuses, at Homestead-Miami Speedway and Martinsville, respectively. After Bristol, the series will conclude at Rockingham Speedway on April 19.
This is the sixth time that the Xfinity Dash for Cash has been held at Bristol. Ironically, Hemric is one of the past winners, claiming the bonus in 2017. Daniel Suraez (2015), Erik Jones (2016), Ryan Preece (2018) and Christopher Bell (2019).
This is the first time the Triple Truck Challenge will be held at Bristol.
The highly-anticipated weekend opens with the WEATHER GUARD Truck Race, a 250-lap race in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series under the lights on Friday, April 11 (7:30 p.m., FS1 and PRN Radio), and continues Saturday afternoon on April 12 with the SciAps 300 NASCAR Xfinity Series race (5 p.m., The CW, PRN Radio). Bush’s Beans Practice and Bush’s Beans Qualifying will be held for all three series both Friday and Saturday. The weekend culminates Sunday afternoon with the running of the historic Food City 500 NASCAR Cup Series race (April 13, 3 p.m., FS1 and PRN Radio).
In addition to cheering on their favorite drivers on the track, Bristol Motor Speedway fans will definitely want to take advantage of so many activities to make a complete weekend of family fun. There will be great video entertainment provided by Colossus TV, the world’s largest center-hung video screen, premium VIP experiences, tailgating, on-site camping, concerts and other entertainment at the Food City Fan Zone Stage headlined by Trackside Live with Kenny Wallace and John Roberts, great food and beverages in the concession stands throughout the property, and so much more.
Single-day tickets for the Food City 500 weekend start as low as $69 for Sunday’s Food City 500 and $46 for Saturday’s SciAps 300 Xfinity Series race. To purchase tickets, please visit www.bristolmotorspeedway.com or call the BMS ticket sales center at (866) 415-4158. You can also purchase tickets at your neighborhood Food City store until Wednesday, April 4.
About Bristol Motor Speedway Forged amid the scenic mountains of Northeast Tennessee near the Virginia state line, Bristol Motor Speedway is The Last Great Colosseum, a versatile multi-use venue that hosts major auto races, football games, concerts and many other captivating events, including an upcoming Major League Baseball game. The facility features a 0.533-mile concrete oval race track with 28-degree corner banking and 650-feet straightaways that offers racing in several NASCAR touring series, highlighted by two major Cup Series weekends each year. In 2025, the venue will transform into a baseball stadium to host the MLB Speedway Classic featuring the Atlanta Braves vs. the Cincinnati Reds on Aug. 2nd. In 2020, the track also served as host of the prestigious NASCAR All-Star Race, and from 2021-2023 the track converted to a temporary dirt track each spring to take the Cup Series back to its racing roots. While at the track, fans are offered a unique viewing experience courtesy of Colossus TV, the world’s largest outdoor center-hung four-sided video screen with a 540,000-watt audio system. The adjacent quarter-mile dragstrip, Bristol Dragway, offers more than 50 events annually, including the marquee NHRA Super Grip Thunder Valley Nationals. The Thunder Valley Amphitheatre presented by Ballad Health transforms Bristol Dragway into a premier outdoor concert venue for the world’s greatest music performers. Three football games have kicked-off inside the oval, most notably the 2016 Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol, where border rivals the University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech met before an NCAA-record crowd of 156,990. In existence since 1961, Bristol Motor Speedway was purchased in 1996 by Speedway Motorsports, a leading marketer and promoter of motorsports entertainment in the United States. For more information, please visit www.bristolmotorspeedway.com.
Cody Ware’s Yellow-and-Black Caterpillar-Inspired Paint Scheme is Most Associated With Two-Time Darlington Race Winner Ward Burton, but the Crew Chief for Those Wins was Rick Ware Racing Competition Director Tommy Baldwin
MOORESVILLE, N.C. (March 31, 2025) – In 146 career NASCAR Cup Series starts between 1994 and 1998, Ward Burton had just five top-five finishes and a best points result of 16th. Aside from a breakthrough win at Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway on Oct. 22, 1995, Burton was still in search of the kind of front-running consistency displayed by his peers, including his brother, Jeff, who already had five of his 21 career Cup Series victories before a dominant, six-win season in 1999.
Ward Burton and the team he was driving for, Bill Davis Racing, needed a jolt. Enter Tommy Baldwin Jr., who became Burton’s crew chief for the final eight races of the 1998 season and who now serves as the competition director for Rick Ware Racing (RWR).
Baldwin’s impact at Bill Davis Racing was immediate. They scored six top-15 finishes in those first eight races together, a run highlighted by a second-place drive Oct. 4 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway, and they rose from 21st to finish 16th in the championship standings.
While no wins were tallied in 1999, Burton scored more top-fives (six) than he had in his prior Cup Series career, and earned as many top-10s (16) as he had in his three previous seasons combined. Altogether, it placed Burton ninth in the season-ending standings, and it gave Bill Davis Racing the accolade of being the only single-car team to crack the top-10 in points.
“We went into the winter with a lot of momentum and a lot of confidence,” Baldwin said. “Finishing in the top-10 in points was pretty big, especially for us being a single-car team. That’s when you went up to New York City and got to go to the Waldorf Astoria and sit at the good tables and have your chest out because it really was a pretty big accomplishment.”
It was a prelude to an impressive three-year run where the drawling Burton of South Boston, Virginia, and the blunt Baldwin of Bellport, New York, put their signature yellow-and-black Caterpillar-sponsored racecar in victory lane four times.
They netted half their wins at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway, home to the Official Throwback Weekend of NACAR and site of this Sunday’s Goodyear 400. It is where Burton’s iconic paint scheme runs again, this time on the No. 51 Jacob Construction Ford Mustang Dark Horse of RWR driver Cody Ware, as a tribute to all that Burton and Baldwin accomplished together, particularly at Darlington.
A glimpse of the duo’s potential at Darlington was on display in the 1999 Southern 500. Burton qualified second and finished second, leading twice for 30 laps in between. When Burton returned to Darlington in March 2000 for the Mall.com 400, he dominated, leading 188 of the race’s 293 laps to take the win by 1.420 seconds over reigning Cup Series champion Dale Jarrett. Burton then finished sixth a little more than five months later in his return to Darlington for the Southern 500, and came home 12th in the 2001 spring race. It set the table for one of his grandest victories – the 2001 Southern 500.
“When I first saw the rendering of our throwback paint scheme, I started to remember that whole Southern 500 weekend and all that went into it,” Baldwin said. “It wasn’t the smoothest, that’s for sure. We ran first or second in practice, and then wrecked in qualifying. We had to put the car back together – whole right side, a rear end, truck arms – I remember it was a lot of work. We started way back, 37th I think, and we made some different changes than we normally would for that race. Ward seemed to like it, but we weren’t running well. Then with about 150 laps left, I brought him back into the pits at the last minute and took those changes out and he went from last to the lead very quickly.”
Burton led only 27 laps. His first time in the lead came with just 55 laps to go. He held the point for 18 tours around the venerable, 1.366-mile oval, and then reassumed the lead with a pass of defending Southern 500 winner Bobby Labonte on lap 359 to lead the final nine laps.
“That was a special weekend, for sure,” Baldwin said. “There were so many good people who were involved in that win on that day. All of us had to fight to get ready for that race, and then we had to fight throughout the race.
“You know, we didn’t have any anticipation of winning because so much had to be done just to even start the race. But when Ward took the lead for the final time and all of us were like, ‘Holy cow! We won that! We won the Southern 500!’ It just goes to show you that teamwork, and all the hard work you put into something, pays off.”
That mantra earned Baldwin two more wins with Burton – the 2002 Daytona 500 and the 2002 New England 300 at New Hampshire – and it remains front and center with Baldwin today at RWR where he is director of competition, a role he has held since April 2023.
“We have a really good team here at Rick Ware Racing. It’s a very small group compared to most teams out there, but it’s a solid group of people that work their tails off,” said Baldwin, who in addition to his 24 years as a Cup Series crew chief, spent a decade as a Cup Series team owner.
“I have so much experience working with teams who are maybe small in numbers, but really good when it comes to building fast racecars and getting results. I’ve made plenty of mistakes along the way, but have learned a lot of the right things too. You take all those positives and negatives, and when you put them together, you’re able to do more in a shorter period of time.
“It’s just basically getting all the ducks in a row, getting all your people to believe in who you are as a race team and where you want to go. When you believe, you work harder and you do all the right things. I think we’ve shown that the last couple of years.”
Darlington is a microcosm of that mindset.
“It’s a full team effort at Darlington,” Baldwin said. “You’ve got to have a car that can last all day and you’ve got to have a driver who can be patient when he needs to be patient, and then go when it’s time to go.”
While Baldwin watches on Sunday, it is Cody Ware who gets the honor of driving a car that pays tribute to such a significant portion of Baldwin’s career.
“Tommy’s really done it all, from crew chief to team owner. He understands all facets of racing, so what better guy than him to have at RWR,” Ware said.
“Tommy is very similar to my father, a guy that’s been a driver, been a team owner, and now, is watching his kids, Jack and Luke, race. It really is a perfect fit to have someone like that who brings the knowledge, the expertise and has the relationships to continually grow our program. To be able to honor that, and what he accomplished with Ward Burton, is very appropriate this weekend.”
The yellow-and-black No. 51 Jacob Construction Ford Mustang Dark Horse tours Darlington for the first time on Saturday when practice begins at 12:35 p.m. EDT followed by qualifying at 1:40 p.m. Prime Video will broadcast both sessions live. The Goodyear 400 goes green on Sunday at 3 p.m. with live coverage on FS1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
About Rick Ware Racing:
Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. More than a decade later, injuries would force Ware out of the driver’s seat and into full-time team ownership. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with his wife Lisa by his side, Ware has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that competes full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning successful teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Progressive American Flat Track and FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX).
Statesville, NC (March 31, 2025) – Headquartered in South Boston, Va., AJ Transport is pleased to announce a multi-race partnership with hometown driver, Jeb Burton in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Covering the entire mid-Atlantic region — and beyond — AJ Transport’s fleet of current, well-maintained vehicles feature; pneumatics tankers, dry-bulk carriers, flatbeds, straight- body dump trucks, and dump trailers.
As part of the partnership, Jeb Burton will drive a throwback paint scheme at Darlington Raceway’s upcoming throwback weekend to honor his father Ward Burton’s first season in the NASCAR Cup Series (1994).
The No. 27 AJ Transport Chevrolet will display the legendary vibrant blue, orange, and yellow colors proudly.
In addition to the Spring race at Darlington, AJ Transport will also serve as the primary partner for Atlanta’s June race and Bristol in September.
“Darlington is shaping up to be a really special weekend for my family and I” says Jeb Burton.
“I’m very proud of my family’s racing heritage and its connection to South Boston, Va., and to have a company from my hometown on the car makes it even more special. So grateful to MC, Benny, and everyone at AJ Transport for supporting me on this racing journey. “
AJ Transport, Manager of LLC, Benny Saunders echoed Burton’s excitement.
“With AJ Transport being headquartered in South Boston, and both MC and I being lifelong race fans, we are thrilled to partner for three races in 2025 with Jeb and Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport. The throwback to South Boston’s own Ward Burton at Darlington is especially exciting. We hope that all of Ward and Jeb’s fans enjoy the throwback scheme. For those CDL drivers out there, check out our exciting opportunities to come drive for us at AJ Transport.”
“We’re so excited to welcome AJ Transport for three races this season,” said Jordan Anderson, Owner of Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport.
“Their connection to South Boston and the Burton family makes this partnership really special. There’s something meaningful about a hometown company stepping up to support one of their own, and doing it with a throwback that means so much to Jeb and his family. We’re proud to have them on board and looking forward to a great run together.”
Tune in to the CW Network on Saturday, March 29th at 5 PM EST to catch the No. 27 AJ Transport Chevrolet take on the famed Darlington Raceway!
About AJ Transport
AJ Transport employs nearly 100 people in the South Boston Virginia area. Their 10-acre headquarters houses a 32,000 square foot office and shop complex. While servicing the entire eastern seaboard, they provide local hauling services. Our aim is to encourage your customer to continue purchasing from you because our service is safe, dependable, and accurate. Others may desire to grow into huge companies; AJ Transport just wants to satisfy customers one by one. Interested in Driving for AJ Transport? Check them out at AJTransportServices.com
About Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport
Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito AutoSport is a NASCAR Xfinity Series team, owned by owner/driver Jordan Anderson and Bommarito Automotive Group President, John Bommarito. Established in 2017 the organization is fueled by an incredible, close-knit team of employees, fans, and sponsors with a focus on integrity in the pursuit of excellence. Our goal is to embrace the journey we’re on and to never give up – whether on the track, in the pits, or in life. Every single team partner, and fan of ours, is what keeps our race cars running strong and our team performing at the highest level.
Cars, Firesuits, Trophies and More Available for Fans to Enjoy Year Round
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 31, 2025) – As part of a nearly two-year renovation, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum will reopen to the public on Wednesday, April 2, displaying more than a century of motorsports history within its 80,000-square-foot facility. Included in the new-look museum as a permanent exhibit is the Penske Gallery, which showcases the unparalleled traditions and success of Team Penske at the 2.5-mile speedway.
The Penske Gallery is an interactive experience that chronicles the performance of the most successful team at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). Featuring historic race cars, legendary trophies, unique artifacts, and displays honoring some of the most iconic and accomplished drivers in racing history, the Penske Gallery brings to life the innovation, teamwork and emotion that are all essential elements of the Penske experience at IMS.
“To be able to witness the evolution of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum from when it was in its original location outside of turn 1 to what is now, a world-class showcase, is truly remarkable,” said Team Penske INDYCAR President Tim Cindric. “It will, once again, become an iconic destination for race fans from around the world. In addition, it will also provide the local communities with a great way to continue the Indianapolis 500 tradition for generations to come. The addition of the Penske Gallery is really something special. It not only illustrates Roger’s unmatched successes on-track and his genuine passion for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but it also pays homage to so many that have played a part in establishing the Penske legacy at the Speedway.”
The state-of-the-art Penske Gallery multimedia display features an interactive retrospective that tells the story of Penske’s history at IMS. From Roger Penske’s first trip to IMS as a 14 year old with his father in 1951 to Team Penske scoring its 20th Indy 500 victory in 2024, the gallery will take visitors inside defining moments of the team’s history at 16th Street and Georgetown Road.
In addition to historic photography and never-before-seen video, the display features four of Team Penske’s Indianapolis 500-winning vehicles, along with Lee Wallard’s 1951 race winner from Roger Penske’s first visit to the facility. The cornerstone of the gallery is all 20 “Baby Borg” Warner trophies presented to Roger Penske for each individual Indy 500 victory. The gallery will include eight race-winning engines, highlighted by the innovative and powerful Illmor Mercedes-Benz pushrod, known simply as “The Beast,” that propelled Al Unser Jr. to Team Penske’s 10th Indy 500 win in 1994.
The gallery will see changes throughout the year to keep the viewing experience fresh for museum goers. Additional Penske artifacts can be found in the Mezzanine and Best of the Best: The Four-Time Winners rotating exhibition.
The museum is open more than 363 days per year and features special events throughout the calendar for members and the general public. To visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and explore the collections of the Penske Gallery, visit imsmuseum.org.
About the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum represents more than a century of motorsports history and is driven by its mission to celebrate and preserve the history behind the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500. Since 1956 when the IMS Museum first opened, it has brought to life the innovation, thrill, and cultural significance of motor racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. What began with only 12 cars on display has become one of the world’s premier collections of racing automobiles and artifacts – with more than 55,000 artifacts and over 150 vehicles. The IMS Museum ignites curiosity, sparks discovery, and embraces tradition.
About Team Penske
Team Penske is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Cars owned and prepared by Team Penske have produced more than 640 major race wins, nearly 700 pole positions and 47 championships across open-wheel, stock car and sports car racing competition. Over the course of its 59-year history, the team has also earned 20 Indianapolis 500 victories, three DAYTONA 500 Championships, a Formula 1 win, victories in the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, along with a win in Australia’s legendary Bathurst 1000 race. In 2025, Team Penske currently competes in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the NASCAR Cup Series. Through a Team Penske global partnership, Porsche Penske Motorsport races in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the FIA World Endurance Championship this season.
