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RFK Advance | COTA

By
Official Release
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COTA Event Info:
Date: Sunday, March 2
Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Austin, Texas
Format: 95 Laps, 228 miles, Stages: 20-45-95
TV: FOX
Radio: PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 11 a.m. ET, Practice (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 12:30 p.m. ET, Qualifying (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 3:30 p.m. ET, Race (FOX, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • Circuit of the Americas (COTA) hosts the first road course race of the 2025 season this weekend as the Cup Series rolls into Austin for just the fifth time ever.
  • The updated course this season will now feature a 17-turn, 2.4-mile layout compared to the 20-turn, 3.41-mile Grand Prix circuit last season.
  • This weekend’s schedule features two separate 20-minute practice sessions, beginning at 11 a.m. ET. Group sessions will still be employed, except with the addition of an extra 20-minute run prior to group qualifying.
  • There have been four different winners in each of the four Austin races – The winner has started eighth or better in three of four races.
  • Jack Roush has 16 wins all-time on road courses in NASCAR with six in the Cup Series, the most recent coming last season (Chris Buescher: Watkins Glen).

6 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jeremy Bullins
Partner: Castrol

17 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Scott Graves
Partner: Fastenal

60 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Derrick Finley
Partner: BuildSubmarines.com

Keselowski at COTA
Starts: 4
Wins: —
Top-10s: —
Poles: —

  • Keselowski makes his fifth start at COTA this weekend. His best finish at the circuit is 14th, which came three years ago after starting 26th.
  • Last season Keselowski finished 33rd, despite earning a sixth-place finish in the second stage.
  • In 46 NASCAR Cup Series races on road courses, Keselowski has 11 top-10s with a 17.1 average finish, and 17.3 average starting position.

Buescher at COTA
Starts: 4
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

  • Buescher has been one of the most consistent drivers on road courses over the past three seasons, registering 13 top-10 finishes in the last 16 events.
  • In the NextGen car, Buescher leads all Cup drivers with an 8.82 average finish on road courses.
  • He comes into this weekend’s event at COTA having posted eighth-place finishes in 2023 and 2024, and has an average finish of 12.5 in four starts at COTA.
  • In 35 races on road courses, Buescher has a 13.1 average finish and 14 top-10s, including his first win on a road course at Watkins Glen last season.

Preece at COTA
Starts: 3
Wins: —
Top-10s: —
Poles: —

  • Preece makes his fourth start at COTA where he finished 23rd last season, and has a career-best finish of 15th in 2021.
  • Across 21 career races on road courses, Preece has two top-10s and a 22.3 average finish.

RFK Historically on Road Courses
Cup Wins: 6 (Mark Martin, 1993-94-95, Watkins Glen; Mark Martin, 1997, Sonoma; Carl Edwards, 2014, Sonoma, Chris Buescher, 2024, Watkins Glen)

  • RFK on the Road: As an organization, RFK has made 263 starts on road courses in the Cup Series with five wins, 92 top-10s and 43 finishes inside the top five with a 17.4 average finish.
  • Martin Goes Three-Straight in N.Y.: NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin is responsible for four of Jack Roush’s road course wins all-time, including three-straight at Watkins Glen from 1993-95. Martin dominated the three years, leading a combined 183 laps, and won all three from the pole. He also won once in Sonoma, in 1997, after also starting from the point to lead 69 of the 74 laps.
  • Edwards Victorious Four Times, at Four Different Road Courses: Carl Edwards also visited victory lane for Jack Roush at Sonoma, driving to the win in 2014 after starting fourth. In Xfinity action, Edwards was victorious at WGI in 2012, Road America in 2010, and Montreal in 2009. In the 2012 event in New York, current crew chief Scott Graves was atop the box for one of his two Xfinity wins all-time on road courses.
  • Buescher, Graves Former Road Course Winners: In Buescher’s first full-time Xfinity season in 2014, he and Graves found victory lane at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in August, after leading 25 laps that day in the No. 60 entry for Roush. Last season, Buescher led 19 laps and fought off Shane van Gisbergen at Watkins Glen to secure the sixth victory under the RFK banner (since 2022) and 143rd overall for Jack Roush in NASCAR Cup Series action.

RFK Road Course Wins

1993-1 Martin WGI-Cup

1994-1 Martin WGI-Cup

1995-1 Martin WGI-Cup

1997-1 Martin Son-Cup

2014-1 Edwards Son-Cup

2024-1 Buescher WGI-Cup

2012-1 Edwards WGI-NXS

2010-1 Edwards RA-NXS

2009-1 Edwards Mon-NXS

2014-1 Buescher Mid-O NXS

1998-1 Ruttman WGI-Truck

2000-1 Biffle WGI-Truck

1997-1 Ruttman Top-Truck

1999-1 Bliss Top-Truck

1997-1 Ruttman Son-Truck

1999-1 Biffle Port-Truck

Last Time Out (Atlanta): The team’s early speed was undeniable, but unfortunate circumstances hindered their results. Buescher and Keselowski were each caught in unavoidable incidents, resulting in 30th- and 39th-place finishes, respectively. Despite battling handling issues late in the race, Preece fought through adversity to secure a solid 18th-place finish, showcasing his determination and resilience.

Points Standings (17: 16th, 60: 29th, 6: T31st): Buescher leads all RFK drivers as he currently holds the last playoff spot despite being involved in an incident last week. Preece finished 18th at Atlanta and moved up to 29th in points, while Keselowski is tied for 31st after a crash last weekend.

What Head-On Crashes Reveal About Road Safety

By
SM
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Head-on crashes are among the most devastating types of accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Recent data shows that these collisions account for a significant percentage of roadway deaths, highlighting critical gaps in traffic safety. Whether caused by distracted driving, impaired motorists, or poor road design, head-on crashes reveal weaknesses in driver behavior and infrastructure. 

Understanding these incidents helps identify areas for improvement, from stricter enforcement of traffic laws to enhanced road design and vehicle safety features. By analyzing the causes and consequences of head-on collisions, we can work toward reducing their frequency and making roads safer for all.

Common Causes of Head-On Crashes

Head-on crashes are among the most severe types of traffic accidents, often leading to devastating consequences. Several key factors contribute to these collisions, making it crucial to address their root causes.

  • Distracted Driving – Using mobile phones, adjusting in-car settings, eating, or engaging in other distractions can cause drivers to drift into oncoming traffic. Even a momentary lapse in attention can result in a catastrophic collision.
  • Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and reduce coordination. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to swerve into opposing lanes, increasing the likelihood of a head-on crash.
  • Speeding and Reckless Overtaking – High speeds reduce a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes. Attempting to pass another vehicle on a two-lane road without sufficient visibility can lead to fatal crashes.
  • Driver Fatigue – Drowsy driving affects concentration and alertness. Fatigued drivers may unknowingly drift into opposing lanes, causing serious accidents.
  • Poor Road Conditions – Faded lane markings, potholes, and inadequate lighting can make it difficult for drivers to maintain proper lane control, increasing the chances of an unintended lane departure.
  • Weather-Related Hazards – Rain, fog, and ice reduce visibility and road traction, making it harder for drivers to stay in their lanes.

By understanding these causes and implementing preventive measures such as stricter enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and road improvements, we can work toward reducing the number of head-on collisions and enhancing overall road safety.

Impact on Drivers and Passengers

Head-on crashes often result in catastrophic injuries due to the force of impact, especially at high speeds. Victims commonly suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal organ injuries. These injuries may require extensive medical treatment, surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation. 

In many cases, survivors face permanent disabilities that affect their quality of life, preventing them from returning to work or performing daily activities independently. The financial burden of medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing care can be overwhelming for both victims and their families.

Beyond physical harm, the emotional and psychological effects of head-on crashes can be long-lasting. Survivors may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, often requiring therapy and mental health support. 

Families dealing with the loss of a loved one or caring for an injured relative also face emotional and financial stress. The devastating impact of these crashes highlights the urgent need for improved road safety measures.

Road Design and Safety Measures

Proper road design plays a crucial role in preventing head-on crashes by guiding drivers and minimizing the risk of lane departures. Several safety measures can help reduce these collisions:

  • Divided Highways – Roads with physical medians or barriers help prevent vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic, significantly reducing head-on crashes.
  • Median Barriers and Rumble Strips – Installing concrete or cable barriers and rumble strips alerts drivers when they drift out of their lane, preventing accidental lane departures.
  • Improved Road Signage and Lighting – Clear lane markings, reflective signs, and well-lit roads enhance visibility, especially in low-light or hazardous conditions.
  • Roundabouts and Traffic Calming Measures – Replacing traditional intersections with roundabouts reduces high-speed collisions, while speed bumps and narrower lanes encourage slower, more controlled driving.
  • Regular Road Maintenance – Keeping roads in good condition by fixing potholes, repainting faded lane markings, and ensuring proper drainage minimizes hazards that can cause drivers to lose control.

Improving driver education and enforcing stricter traffic laws are crucial in preventing head-on crashes. Defensive driving courses teach motorists how to anticipate and respond to potential hazards, reducing risky behaviors such as distracted driving and reckless overtaking. Public awareness campaigns also emphasize the dangers of impaired and fatigued driving, encouraging responsible behavior on the road.

Stronger legal measures help deter dangerous driving practices. Stricter penalties for speeding, DUI offenses, and illegal passing can reduce the likelihood of head-on collisions. Advanced vehicle technologies, such as lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking, further enhance safety by assisting drivers in avoiding mistakes. 

Holding negligent drivers accountable through fines, license suspensions, and criminal charges reinforces the importance of responsible driving. Combining education, enforcement, and technology is essential in reducing head-on crashes and improving overall road safety.

Conclusion

Head-on crashes expose critical flaws in road safety, from driver behavior to infrastructure design. These collisions often result in severe injuries or fatalities, emphasizing the need for preventative measures. Addressing common causes, such as distracted driving and poor road conditions, requires a combination of enforcement, public awareness, and advanced vehicle technologies.

Road improvements like median barriers, rumble strips, and better lighting can significantly reduce the risk of such accidents. Additionally, stricter traffic laws and driver education programs play a vital role in promoting safer driving habits. By implementing these changes, we can work toward reducing head-on collisions and creating safer roads for all.

2025 NTT IndyCar Series Grid Overview

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Ron Olds for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season is four days from commencing at the Streets of St. Peterburg in St. Petersburg, Florida, for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

This upcoming racing season is set to mark the first implementation of IndyCar’s charter system, where 25 of 27 full-time entries entered for the season were awarded charters that would guarantee the entries starting spots for every scheduled event and contend for the series’ Leaders Circle program. As a result, each of the chartered teams (10 of 11 total) were awarded a maximum of three charters, with some set to field three full-time entries while others will field two in 2025.

The use of IndyCar’s new charter system for guaranteed starting spots for each scheduled events does not include the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The event’s 33-car field will remain solely determined by the drivers’ two-day qualifying trials that are scheduled to occur on May 17-18. The main event is scheduled to occur on May 25 with a starting broadcast time of 10 a.m. ET on FOX.

Speaking of FOX, this season will also mark a year where all 17-scheduled events will be televised on FOX, the latter of which replaces NBC and Peacock. It will also mark the first time where Doug Boles, president of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, will assume dual roles as he will also serve as the president of IndyCar, where he replaces Jay Frye.

Among additional updates made to the competition side of IndyCar entering the 2025 campaign include the use of Hybrid Assist Unit for additional horsepower and used for every event after being introduced midway in 2024, extra practice time at select venues, an implementation of a “pair up” location for competitors to line up in formation prior to restarts and an adjusted cockpit alert notifications of caution periods. In addition, select venues like the Streets of Long Beach, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Iowa Speedway’s doubleheader feature, Toronto’s Exhibition Place and the season-finale venue at Nashville Superspeedway will receive additional laps for extra racing time.

Lastly, the 2025 season will mark a year where a bevy of new names have new organizations to call home. Here is an overview of the driver roster for each team scheduled to compete, including a majority on a full-time basis and those scheduled to only compete in this year’s 109th running of the Indianapolis 500:

Chip Ganassi Racing

Under IndyCar’s new charter system in 2025, Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR), the reigning championship-winning team, has been reduced to fielding only three full-time entries for the first time since the 2020 season. Previously, CGR fielded four full-time entries from 2021 to 2023 before fielding five in 2024. Amid the entry reduction, CGR enters the upcoming season with a goal to both defend its title and claim its 17th overall.

The competitors who will represent Ganassi in 2025 are Alex Palou, Scott Dixon and Kyffin Simpson, all of whom are also set to remain at the organization.

  • Alex Palou, a native of Sant Antoni de Vilamajor, Spain, is the reigning three-time IndyCar champion with 11 career victories, including two this past season. He will continue to pilot the No. 10 Dallara-Honda entry, an entry he first drove when he first joined CGR in 2021 and proceeded to claim his first title during the same year. Having won the previous two titles in 2023 and 2024, Palou is one away from tying Mario Andretti, Sébastien Bourdais and Dario Franchitti for having the third-most titles in IndyCar competition at four. With a career-best runner-up result in 2021, Palou will also attempt to become the first Spaniard to win the Indy 500.
  • Scott Dixon, a six-time IndyCar champion and the 2008 Indy 500 champion with 58 victories from Auckland, New Zealand, is scheduled to compete in his 24th season with CGR and remain as the driver of his No. 9 Dallara-Honda entry in 2025. This past season, he claimed two victories and finished in sixth place in the final standings. As Dixon continues his pursuit to tie A.J. Foyt for the most IndyCar titles at seven, he is also nine victories away from also tying Foyt for the most IndyCar race victories all-time at 67.
  • Kyffin Simpson, the 2021 Formula Regional Americas champion who was raised on the Cayman Islands, is coming off his first full-time campaign in IndyCar competition as he recorded an average-finishing result of 19.5 while driving CGR’s No. 4 Dallara-Honda entry. For this upcoming season, Simpson will inherit the reigns of the No. 8 Dallara-Honda entry that had been previously filled by the reigning IndyCar Rookie-of-the-Year recipient Linus Lundqvist, the latter of whom was unable to acquire a seat for the 2025 campaign.

Andretti Global

For the 2025 IndyCar season, there are two teams that fielded three full-time entries for three competitors each in 2024 that will retain its current, respective driver roster. The first is Andretti Global, a four-time championship-winning team and six-time Indy 500 race-winning team. For this upcoming season, the team will retain its current full-time driver roster that consists of Colton Herta, Kyle Kirkwood and Marcus Ericsson.

  • Colton Herta, a nine-time IndyCar race winner from Valencia, California, is coming off a resurgent season, where he snapped a one-year winless drought, scored two victories, including the season-finale event at Nashville Superspeedway, and claimed a career-best runner-up result in the final driver’s standings. He will pilot the No. 26 Dallara-Honda entry for a fifth consecutive season as he also strives to be one spot higher in the final standings in 2025.
  • Kyle Kirkwood, the 2021 Indy Lights champion and two-time IndyCar race winner from Jupiter, Florida, will retain driving responsibilities of the No. 27 Dallara-Honda entry for a third consecutive season after finishing in seventh place in last year’s standings. The upcoming season marks a pivotal one for Kirkwood, whose latest IndyCar victory occurred at Nashville Street Circuit in August 2023.
  • Marcus Ericsson, the 2022 Indy 500 champion from Kumla, Sweden, returns to drive Andretti’s No. 28 Dallara-Honda entry for a second consecutive season despite enduring a difficult 2024 season, where he notched a single podium and finished in 15th place in the final standings. Like teammate Kirkwood, the 2025 season marks a pivotal season for Ericsson, whose latest victory occurred during the 2023 season-opening event at the Streets of St. Petersburg.
  • Amid its three-car stable for the entire 2025 season, Andretti Global will also be fielding a fourth entry, the No. 98 Dallara-Honda, for Marco Andretti, the latter of whom will both attempt to qualify for his 20th consecutive appearance in the Indy 500 and join his grandfather, Mario, as a champion of the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. Marco Andretti, a third-generation racer from Nazareth, Pennsylvania, is a two-time race winner in the IndyCar circuit who nearly won the Indy 500 during his debut in 2006 until he was overtaken by Sam Hornish Jr. through the final straightaway on the final lap. Through 19 previous Indy 500 attempts, Andretti has finished in the top five five times and has recorded a single pole in the event, which occurred in 2020.

Team Penske

Like Andretti, Team Penske, a 17-time championship-winning team and 20-time Indy 500 race-winning team, will retain its current three-driver roster from the previous season that includes Josef Newgarden, Scott McLaughlin and Will Power.

  • Josef Newgarden, a two-time IndyCar champion from Hendersonville, Tennessee, enters the 2025 season as the reigning two-time Indy 500 champion. Having won both of his Indy 500 events in back-to-back seasons and on last-lap passes, Newgarden strives to become the first-ever competitor to win the Great Spectacle in Racing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for three consecutive seasons this year. Despite ending up in eighth place in the 2024 standings while registering two victories, Newgarden, who inked a multi-year contract extension to remain at Team Penske not long after winning the 2024 Indy 500, returns to compete in his No. 2 Dallara-Chevrolet entry.
  • Scott McLaughlin, a three-time Supercars champion and the 2021 IndyCar Rookie-of-the-Year recipient from Christchurch, New Zealand, is coming off his fourth consecutive campaign in IndyCar competition that was a career year, where he recorded three victories, five poles, including the 2024 Indy 500, seven podiums and finished in third place in the final standings. He will continue to drive the No. 3 Dallara-Chevrolet entry.
  • Will Power, the 2018 Indy 500 champion and 2014 IndyCar champion from Toowoomba, Australia, is scheduled to enter his 17th IndyCar season at Team Penske as he will remain as the driver of the No. 12 Dallara-Chevrolet entry. This past season, Power snapped a one-year winless drought by notching three victories and finishing in fourth place in the final standings after coming within striking distance of challenging Palou for the title.

Arrow McLaren

This upcoming season, Arrow McLaren, which is solely owned by McLaren Racing following the departures of former owners Sam Schmidt and Ric Peterson, will feature a new name to its three-driver roster that also consists of two familiar names returning from the previous season. The name that is new to the team and the McLaren Racing family overall is Christian Lundgaard as he will compete alongside his new teammates Pato O’Ward and Nolan Siegel.

  • Christian Lundgaard, the 2022 IndyCar Rookie-of-the-Year recipient from Hedensted, Denmark, was announced to drive for the McLaren organization in 2025 this past July after spending the previous three seasons driving for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. Having achieved his first IndyCar victory at Toronto in 2023, Lundgaard finished in 11th place in the 2024 standings on the strength of a single podium and an average-finishing result of 13.0. He will be inheriting the No. 7 Dallara-Chevrolet entry, a ride that had been previously driven by veteran Alexander Rossi, as he strives to snap a one-year winless drought and draw himself to within championship contention.
  • Pato O’Ward, the 2018 Indy Lights champion from Monterrey, Mexico, is coming off a resurgent season where he snapped a one-year winless drought by winning three events, finishing a close second place in the Indy 500, notching six podiums and settling in fifth place in the final standings. Having inked a new multi-year contract extension to remain at McLaren in February 2024, O’Ward will pilot the No. 5 Dallara-Chevrolet entry for a sixth consecutive season in 2025 as he continues to strive for his first IndyCar title and become the first Mexican to win the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.
  • Nolan Siegel, winner of the 2024 Hours of Le Mans in the LMP2 class from Palo Alto, California, initially commenced his first IndyCar campaign in 2024 as a part-time competitor for Dale Coyne Racing. Beginning at Monterrey in June, he replaced Théo Pourchaire to drive McLaren’s No. 6 Dallara-Chevrolet entry. Despite recording an average-finishing result of 16.7 in 10 starts with McLaren in 2024, Siegel will continue to drive the organization’s No. 6 entry on a full-time basis in 2025 and as part of a multi-year deal.
  • Like the previous two seasons, Arrow McLaren will field a fourth entry, the No. 17 Dallara-Chevrolet entry, for the series’ annual Indy 500 this upcoming May as part of a collaborative effort involving Hendrick Motorsports, a 14-time NASCAR championship-winning team. Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion from Elk Grove, California, will rejoin the organization in a one-race deal to make his second consecutive “Double” attempt between the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, the latter of which occurs at Charlotte Motor Speedway, during Memorial Day weekend. During the 2024 season, Larson had his double duty plan foiled due to Mother Nature, which resulted with him only competing in the Indy 500 and missing the start of the Coke 600 before he then attempted to fly back for the latter event that was shortened due to rain and prevented Larson from competing. Nonetheless, he captured the 2024 Indy 500 Rookie-of-the-Year title.

AJ Foyt Racing

AJ Foyt Racing, a team that is led by four-time Indy 500 champion AJ Foyt, will feature a new name competing alongside a returning name within its two-car stable as David Malukas joins the organization for the first time in his career and compete alongside his new teammate Santino Ferrucci.

  • David Malukas, a 23-year-old Chicago native, is coming off a roller-coaster 2024 season that initially commenced on a low note when he had his plans of competing with Arrow McLaren evaporated prior to the season’s commencement due to undergoing surgical repairs from a mountain bike accident in late February. After missing the first seven-scheduled events, he was then hired by Meyer Shank Racing for the remaining nine. During the span, he qualified in the top three three times and registered an average-finishing result of 16.0. Despite ending up in 24th place in the final standings, Malukas was announced to be joining A.J. Foyt’s organization this past August as he is scheduled to pilot the No. 41 Dallara-Chevrolet entry in 2025. In the process, Malukas replaces the departing Sting Ray Robb.
  • Santino Ferrucci, a 26-year-old native of Woodbury, Connecticut, returns as the driver of the No. 14 A.J. Foyt Racing Dallara-Chevrolet entry for a third consecutive season. The 2024 season, which marked Ferrucci’s fourth as a full-time IndyCar competitor, was his strongest to date as he achieved his first pole position at Portland International Raceway, recorded an average-finishing result of 10.9 on the strength of 11 top-10 results and recorded a career-best ninth place in the final standings. Currently, Ferrucci is also six-for-six in finishing in the top 10 in every Indianapolis 500 event he has competed in since 2019. Having finished eighth during the 2024 Indy 500 and third in the previous season, Ferrucci will enter the 2025 season with an attempt to become the 56th American overall to win the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing

Rahal Letterman Lanigan (RLL) Racing, a two-time Indy 500 race-winning team, will field three full-time entries for a fourth consecutive season as Graham Rahal, the team’s veteran competitor, will be paired with new teammates Devlin DeFrancesco and rookie Louis Foster.

  • Graham Rahal, a native of New Albany, Ohio, is coming off his 12th consecutive season driving RLL Racing’s No. 15 Dallara-Honda entry, an entry he will continue to drive in 2025 after inking a multi-year contract extension with the organization in November 2023. He is also coming off his 18th consecutive season as an IndyCar competitor, where he recorded five top-10 results, an average-finishing result of 15.6 and finished in 18th place in the 2024 final standings. Despite recording six IndyCar career victories, he has yet to return to Victory Lane since he swept both Belle Isle events in 2017.
  • Devlin DeFrancesco, the 2017 Spanish F3 champion from Toronto, returns to IndyCar competition for the first time since he competed with Andretti Global during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. During his two-year campaign at Andretti, he recorded average-finishing results within the top-20 mark and finished within the top-25 mark in the final standings. After spending this past season making five starts in the IMSA SportsCar Championship GTD Class division with Forte Racing, he will pilot the No. 30 RLL Racing Dallara-Honda entry, where he replaces Pietro Fittipaldi, as he bids for his first victory in the series.
  • Louis Foster, the reigning Indy NXT champion from Odiham, Hampshire, England, will campaign in his inaugural season in IndyCar competition and behind the wheel of RLL Racing’s No. 45 Dallara-Honda entry, where he replaces the departing Christian Lundgaard. Foster’s announcement of his graduation to IndyCar was made nearly a month after the 2024 Indy NXT season concluded, where he won eight of 14-scheduled events and wrapped up the title by 122 points while driving for Andretti Global. Prior to IndyCar competition, he claimed the Indy Pro 2000 title in 2022 and claimed the 2020 BRDC British Formula 3 Rookie title. 

Meyer Shank Racing

Meyer Shank Racing (MSR), the 2021 Indy 500 race-winning team, will field two full-time entries and a single entry for Helio Castroneves, the latter of whom will bid for a starting spot for this year’s 109th Indy 500. The competitors who will represent MSR as full-time competitors for title bids are Felix Rosenqvist and Marcus Armstrong.

  • Felix Rosenqvist, the 2019 IndyCar Rookie-of-the-Year recipient from Värnamo, Sweden, who recorded his first IndyCar victory during a doubleheader feature at Road America in 2020, returns for a second consecutive campaign with MSR after enduring a decent season in 2024. Having previously competed for Chip Ganassi Racing and Arrow McLaren, Rosenqvist recorded a pole position in the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach and finished in the top 10 during the first four-scheduled events before he would tally up two additional for the remaining 13, which resulted with him settling in 12th place in the final standings. Despite recording an average-finishing result of 13.8 while also qualifying in the top five seven times, he inked a multi-year contract extension with MSR this past September and he will continue to pilot the No. 60 Dallara-Honda entry.
  • Marcus Armstrong, the 2023 IndyCar Rookie-of-the-Year recipient, from Christchurch, New Zealand, transitions to MSR to drive the team’s No. 66 Dallara-Honda entry in 2025. Previously, Armstrong, who is also a former champion in the Italian F4 division, spent the previous two seasons driving for Chip Ganassi Racing. During his two-year campaign with Ganassi, he recorded average-finishing results within the top-15 mark, led a total of 22 laps and recorded a single podium result by finishing third at the Streets of Detroit this past June. Compared to the 2023 season where he finished 20th in the final standings, he jumped to 14th this past season as he strives to contend for his first victory in IndyCar competition this upcoming season.
  • Like the previous season, MSR will field a third Honda entry for Hélio Castroneves, a four-time Indianapolis 500 champion who will attempt to qualify for his 25th consecutive appearance in this year’s Greatest Spectacle in Racing. After joining A.J. Foyt, Al Unser Sr. and Rick Mears as the only competitors to win the Indy 500 a record-tying four times with his latest victory in 2021, this upcoming season presents a grand opportunity for Castroneves to establish himself as the only five-time winner in the 500-mile event. Ironically, Castroneves is the competitor who delivered MSR its first-ever IndyCar victory during the 2021 Indy 500 event.

Ed Carpenter Racing

For an eighth consecutive season, Ed Carpenter Racing (ECR) will also field two full-time entries and a single entry for team owner Ed Carpenter, the latter of whom will bid for a starting spot for this year’s 109th Indy 500. As for ECR’s full-time entries, Alexander Rossi and Christian Rasmussen will both represent the team while contending for the 2025 title.

  • Alexander Rossi, the 2016 Indy 500 champion from Nevada City, California, joins ECR following a two-year campaign at Arrow McLaren as he also finished in the top-10 mark during both of the season’s final standings. For his 10th season overall in IndyCar competition in 2025, Rossi will pilot the No. 20 Dallara-Chevrolet entry as he strives to return to Victory Lane for the first time since winning at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course in July 2022.
  • Christian Rasmussen, the 2023 Indy NXT champion from Copenhagen, Denmark, is coming off his first season in IndyCar competition, where he competed in all but four of the 17-scheduled events. Throughout his part-time bid, he recorded an average-finishing result of 18.4, finished in 12th place during his first Indianapolis 500 bid and recorded a season-best ninth place at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. After splitting between ECR’s Nos. 20 and 33 entries, Rasmussen will have the No. 21 Dallara-Chevrolet entry entirely to himself in 2025. Previously, the No. 21 entry was piloted by Rinus VeeKay.
  • As previously announced, ECR’s team owner Ed Carpenter, a three-time IndyCar race winner from Indianapolis, will field a third entry for himself as he attempts to qualify for this year’s Indy 500, an event he has competed in since 2004. Having started on the pole position for the Indy 500 three times and finishing as high as second in 2018, Carpenter strives to make his 22nd appearance in the Greatest Spectacle in Racing his time to reign supreme for the first time ever.

Juncos Hollinger Racing

Juncos Hollinger Racing (JHR), which returns as a two-car team for a third consecutive season, will feature two new full-time drivers competing in the team’s entries for the 2025 season. The team’s competitors feature Conor Daly and Sting Ray Robb.

  • Conor Daly, a 33-year-old native of Noblesville, Indiana, is coming off a part-time IndyCar campaign, where he finished 10th during the 108th Indy 500 for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing/Cusick Motorsports before he finished 27th at Iowa Speedway while competing for Dale Coyne Racing. After replacing Agustín Canapino in JHR’s No. 78 Dallara-Chevrolet entry for the remaining five events of the 2024 season, he shined during the series’ doubleheader feature at the Milwaukee Mile by finishing in third place during the first doubleheader event, which marked the first-ever podium result for JHR and Daly’s first since he finished in second place at The Raceway in Belle Isle, Michigan, in 2016. Managing an additional top-10 result before the 2024 season concluded, Daly would wait another four months before he was officially announced to replace Romain Grosjean and drive JHR’s No. 77 Dallara-Chevrolet entry on a full-time basis in 2025.
  • Sting Ray Robb, a 23-year-old native of Boise, Idaho, will assume driving responsibilities of JHR’s No. 78 Dallara-Chevrolet entry as he is coming off his second consecutive season in IndyCar competition. This past season, he drove the No. 41 entry for A.J. Foyt Racing to an average-finishing result of 19.4 and settled in 20th place in the final standings. Previously in 2023, he drove for Dale Coyne Racing to an average-finishing result of 22.2 and a 23rd-place ranking in the final standings.

Dale Coyne Racing

Dale Coyne Racing (DCR), a six-time IndyCar race-winning team, was the latest organization to finalize its driver lineup for the 2025 season between January and February this year. The drivers who will compete for DCR are Jacob Abel and Rinus VeeKay.

  • Jacob Abel, a 23-year-old native of Louisville, Kentucky, is coming off a third consecutive campaign in the Indy NXT division for Abel Motorsports, where he scored three victories and finished in the runner-up spot in the final championship standings. Having previously competed in multiple series, including the GT World Challenge America, Indy Pro 2000 Championship and Formula 4 United States Championship divisions, Abel will be piloting the No. 51 Dallara-Honda entry for his first-ever IndyCar campaign. Previously, DCR’s No. 51 entry was split between Katherine Legge, Tristan Vautier and rookie competitors Colin Braun, Lucas Ghiotto, Nolan Siegel and Toby Sowery.
  • Rinus Veekay, a 24-year-old native of Hoofddorp, Netherlands, grabbed the final unoccupied seat to this year’s grid, which was DCR’s No. 18 Dallara-Honda entry that had been piloted between four different competitors throughout the 2024 season. VeeKay, the 2020 IndyCar Rookie-of-the-Year recipient, is coming off his fifth and final campaign at Ed Carpenter Racing, where he recorded a single top-five result and settled in 13th place in the driver’s standings. His lone victory to date spans back to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course in May 2021 while his latest podium result is a third-place run at Barber Motorsports Park in May 2022.

Prema Racing

Prema Racing will etch a new chapter in its rich legacy in motorsports competition by competing in IndyCar for the first time in 2025. Founded in 1983 and based in Grisignano di Zocco, Italy, the team has since achieved 80 championships across multiple motorsports regions, including the Formula 2 and 3 divisions, and featured a multitude of open-wheel stars, many of whom compete in Formula 1 and even included current IndyCar competitor Marcus Armstrong and former IndyCar star Ryan Briscoe. Despite being entered as a non-chartered team, Prema Racing will field two Chevrolet-powered entries for its inaugural campaign in IndyCar competition and feature Callum Ilott and Robert Shwartzman as its primary drivers while Romain Grosjean, a former Formula 1 competitor who lost his recent IndyCar ride at Juncos Hollinger Racing, will serve as the team’s reserve competitor.

  • Callum Ilott, a former Ferrari Driver Academy competitor from Cambridge, England, who notched a podium result in the GTE Am Class during the 2021 24 Hours of Le Mans, returns to full-time IndyCar competition for the first time since he competed at Juncos Hollinger Racing in 2023. This past season, he competed in two IndyCar events at Arrow McLaren, where he finished 11th during both the season-opening event at the Streets of St. Petersburg and the 108th Indy 500. Through 38 previous starts in IndyCar competition, Ilott has recorded four top-10 career results, two career-best fifth-place finishes, 13 laps led and an overall average-finishing result of 16.7. He will pilot Prema’s No. 90 Dallara-Chevrolet entry.
  • Robert Shwartzman, the 2019 Formula 3 champion from Tel Aviv, Israel, will also join Prema and drive the No. 83 Dallara-Chevrolet entry for his inaugural campaign in IndyCar competition. This past season, he competed in the Hypercar class of the FIA World Endurance Championship region with AF Corse, where he achieved a victory in the Lone Star Le Mans at Circuit of the Americas. Having served as both a test and reserve competitor for Ferrari, Shwartzman also campaigned in two seasons in Formula 2 with Prema, where he scored six victories and finished second in the 2021 final standings behind current McLaren F1 competitor Oscar Piastri. Prior to his Formula 3 title in 2019, Shwartzman claimed the 2018 Toyota Racing Series title with M2 Competition.

Dreyer & Reinbold Racing/Cusick Motorsports

Despite not entering the 2025 IndyCar season as a full-time organization and with no charters, Dreyer & Reinbold Racing/Cusick Motorsports will field two entries that will contend for starting spots for this year’s 109th Indy 500. The team’s driver lineup for its two-car effort features the return of Ryan Hunter-Reay and the addition of Jack Harvey.

  • Ryan Hunter-Reay, the 2014 Indy 500 champion and the 2012 IndyCar champion from Dallas, Texas, will drive DRR/Cusick’s No. 23 Dallara-Chevrolet entry for a third consecutive season in his one-race attempt to make his 17th career start in the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. Having last competed as a full-time IndyCar competitor in 2021, Hunter-Reay has recorded six top-10 results, including his 2014 victory, throughout his previous 16 Indy 500 starts. Since becoming a part-time competitor in 2023, he has finished 11th and 26th, respectively, during his previous two Indy starts with DRR/Cusick. Throughout the 2023 season, he also competed in the final 10 events with Ed Carpenter Racing. With all eyes on 2025, Hunter-Reay will attempt to become the 22nd competitor overall to achieve multiple Indy 500 victories.
  • Jack Harvey, the 2012 British Formula 3 champion from Bassingham, United Kingdom, will make his first-ever IndyCar attempt in a Dallara-Chevrolet entry and in DRR/Cusick’s No. 24 car as he also strives to qualify for his eighth Indy 500 after being absent from the event a year ago. Having previously competed with Meyer Shank Racing and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, Harvey spent this past season competing in all but three IndyCar events with Dale Coyne Racing. During his part-time effort, he recorded an average-finishing result of 19.9 and finished as high as 13th on the track twice. During his seven previous Indy 500 starts, he finished a career-best ninth in 2020. Harvey’s current best on-track result in IndyCar competition is third, which occurred at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course in 2019.

With the 2025 NTT INDYCAR Series grid set, the season is scheduled to commence at the Streets of St. Petersburg for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg this upcoming Sunday, March 2. The opener’s air broadcast coverage will commence at noon ET on FOX.

Berry and No. 21 Freightliner Team Ready for COTA

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After opening the 2025 season with drafting-style races at Daytona and Atlanta, NASCAR’s Cup Series now moves to a road-course race at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Josh Berry and his No. 21 Mustang Dark Horse will carry Freightliner colors for the race on COTA’s National Course, which is about a mile shorter than the full course that was used in earlier Cup races. The shorter course, which eliminates much of the backstretch, still has 20 turns but covers 2.3 miles instead of 3.41. Due to the shorter distance the race will be 95 laps rather than the 68 previously.

Berry said he’s fine with the new layout. “Selfishly I like the changes to the course,” he said. “Last year I was pretty solid with the majority [of the course] that they left.”

Berry said he’s worked hard to prepare himself for the upcoming weekend. “I spent some time at Ford with the simulator, getting acclimated to the new layout and working on things,” he said. “I feel good going there.”

Berry said he and the Freightliner team have done all they can to be as prepared as they can be, and he believes he has reasonable expectations for the race. “I’m continuing to gain experience on the road courses, so for me I think we just want to execute a solid race,” he said. “I want to be more competitive than I was there last year with no mistakes. If we can keep the car facing in the right direction and keep it on the race track, we can have a solid day.”

Practice for the EchoPark Automotive Texas Grand Prix is set for Saturday at 10 a.m. local time (11 a.m. Eastern Time) to be followed by qualifying at 11:30 a.m. (12:30 p.m. Eastern). Amazon Prime will carry the TV coverage of practice and qualifying.

Sunday’s 95-lap, 219-mile race is scheduled to get the green flag just after 2:30 p.m. (3:30 p.m. Eastern) with TV coverage on FOX. Stage breaks are planned for Laps 20 and 45.

About Wood Brothers Racing
Founded in 1950 by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood in Stuart, Virginia, Wood Brothers Racing holds a special place in NASCAR history as the sport’s longest-running team. Over eight decades, the team has earned 100 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, along with 120 poles, and remains proud of its longstanding relationship with Ford Motor Company, fielding only Ford products since its inception. Glenn’s brother, Leonard Wood, played a key role in shaping modern racing by developing the techniques behind today’s pit stops. With a rich legacy rooted in innovation and tradition, Wood Brothers Racing continues to honor its heritage while adapting for the future as it competes in NASCAR’s premier series with Josh Berry.

Kaulig Racing – Weekly Preview | Circuit of the Americas

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  • Matt Kaulig partners with St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway: Last week, Kaulig Giving partnered with St. Jude for the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway ticket sell-a-thon. Tickets cost $100 each with all proceeds going back to St. Jude and its mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®. With a goal of selling 26,000 tickets, thanks to Matt Kaulig, Kaulig Giving, and other partners, over one million dollars was raised in just seven minutes – a new St. Jude record.
  • In the NASCAR Cup Series, Kaulig Racing has earned a top five and two top-10 finishes at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), both from AJ Allmendinger.
  • Allmendinger also earned two wins for Kaulig Racing at COTA in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, along with a pole award. The team has also earned three top fives, seven top-10 finishes and led 101 laps.
  • Last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Christian Eckes recorded the fastest lap of the NASCAR Xfinity Series race in his No. 16 Chevrolet. The following day, AJ Allmendinger also recorded the fastest lap of the NASCAR Cup Series race in his No. 16 Camaro ZL1. Both were awarded one championship point.

 
10 Team Info

Crew Chief: Andrew Dickeson

Partner: Sea Best

Ty Dillon, No. 10 Sea Best Camaro ZL1
Sea Best: Sea Best will be on the No. 10 Chevrolet this weekend at COTA with Ty Dillon. Sea Best proudly serves as the flagship brand of Beaver Street Fisheries, a family-owned and operated company based in Jacksonville, Florida. As one of the nation’s largest importers, manufacturers, and distributors of seafood and meat, the Sea Best brand is synonymous with premium-quality seafood. Its product lineup includes a wide range of frozen fish fillets—such as ahi tuna, mahi-mahi, cod, and catfish—along with shrimp, scallops, and lobster.

Meet Dillon:

Saturday, March 1

Ty Dillon will make an appearance in the Lot H Campground on Saturday, March 1, from 8:00 – 8:15 p.m. local. Dillon will meet with campers, take photos, sign autographs, and participate in a Q & A session.

Sunday, March 2

Dillon will be on Trackside Live on the EchoPark Automotive Experience Stage in the COTA Fan Zone from 11:15 – 11:30 a.m. CT.
Following his appearance on Trackside Live, Dillon will make his way to the NASCAR Classics Merchandise trailer from 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. to meet fans and sign autographs.

At COTA:

Ty Dillon returns to a track where he has only five starts across all three of NASCAR’s top-tier series.
On Sunday, Dillon will make his fourth NASCAR Cup Series start at the track and looks to improve on his best finish of 20th in three previous starts. Dillon’s best finish across all series at the track came in last year’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race where he finished 11th.
 
“I love road course racing. It’s something I’ve always had a lot of confidence at, but I’m very excited this year for the opportunity to get to work with AJ [Allmendinger], probably the best in the business at road course racing, especially with Kaulig Racing. So, for me, it’s a shut mouth and open ears for the weekend and try to learn as much as I can. I can’t expect to go out and run AJ, but I can learn a lot and hopefully improve my past performances at the race track. I think it’s going to be a really fun weekend. I enjoy the discipline of road course racing, and then I love Austin, Texas, too. I’m a huge Longhorns fan, so I just love being in the city and everything it’s about.” – Ty Dillon on Circuit of the Americas  

16 Team Info

Crew Chief: Trent Owens

Partner: Celsius

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Celsius Camaro ZL1

Celsius: The No. 16 Chevy will feature the Celsius on-board camera during the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix race weekend. Allmendinger earned Celsius their first NASCAR win as a primary partner in the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series Pitboss 250 Presented by USA Today.

Meet Allmendinger:

Friday, February 28
NASCAR Classics merchandise trailer in the COTA Midway from 3:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Saturday, March 1
Circle K 12200 FM 969 Rd. Austin, Texas 78724 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

At COTA:

AJ Allmendinger earned one top five and two top-10 finishes at Circuit of the Americas. In 2024, Allmendinger finished in sixth place in Kaulig Racing’s part-time, third Cup entry.
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Allmendinger has made four starts and earned two wins, three top five and four top-10 finishes.
 
“I always enjoy going to COTA, I feel like we’ve had a lot of speed there in the past. We’ve had some success, but we’ve always been in the mix to run inside the top five. It’ll be a challenge this weekend with the new layout, but I feel good from where our road course program has been. If we can unload, have speed, and execute, we’ll give ourselves a shot to win the race.” – AJ Allmendinger on Circuit of the Americas  

10 Team Info

Crew Chief: Kevin Walter

Partner: Heise LED Lighting Systems

Daniel Dye, No. 10 Heise LED Lighting Systems Chevrolet

Heise LED Lighting Systems: Daniel Dye will pilot the No. 10 Heise LED Lighting Systems Chevrolet at Circuit of the Americas. Heise LED offers top-quality, innovative lighting solutions for vehicles of all kinds—everyday, off-road, and marine. Their products blend rugged construction with advanced LED technology, delivering both reliability and striking illumination. Whether you want better visibility or a bold style upgrade, Heise stands out for easy installation and sleek design.

At COTA:

  • Dye will make his first road-course start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series this weekend at Circuit of the Americas.
  • Dye made two NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series starts at the track and earned a top-20 finish.
  • Last weekend, Dye matched his career-best finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (Seventh) and first top-10 finish of the 2025 season.

“Coming off a top-10 finish in Atlanta, we are looking to carry some momentum heading into our first road course of the season. It will be my first time on a road course in the Xfinity car as well. I’m not a road-course ringer, but we’ve been working hard in preparation for this race. Hopefully some of that hard work shows this weekend.” – Daniel Dye on Circuit of the Americas  

11 Team Info

Crew Chief: Eddie Pardue

Partner: Alloy Employer Services

Josh Williams, No. 11 Alloy Employer Services Chevrolet
Alloy Employer Services: On road courses and other select races in 2025, Kaulig Racing will run a special Alloy Employer Services patriotic scheme. This will be the eighth time that the “Alloy Eagle” has made an appearance on track with the No. 11 Chevy.

At COTA:

  • Williams has made one start at Circuit of the Americas (2024). He was forced to retire early due to overheating issues for the No. 11.
  • Williams started at the back of the field in that race due to missing qualifying for the birth of his daughter. He had gained nine spots before pitting on lap 11 for what eventually became a host of radiator-based problems. He eventually retired after 24 laps.
  • Last week at Atlanta, Williams qualified third, his highest-career starting position.

“It’ll be nice to actually turn some laps at COTA for once. I missed [the race] for one reason or another for a while, and we had baby Williams during qualifying last year, so I’m kind of relieved they changed the layout so that everyone is on the back foot a little bit. Hopefully we get more laps in the race this year and get dialed in during practice.” – Josh Williams on Circuit of the Americas  

16 Team Info

Crew Chief: Alex Yontz

Partner: Celsius

Christian Eckes, No. 16 Celsius Chevrolet

Celsius: Christian Eckes will pilot the No. 16 Celsius Chevrolet for the first road-course race of the 2025 season, the Focused Health 250 at Circuit of the Americas. Eckes and Celsius previously teamed up for the rookie driver’s NASCAR Xfinity Series debut at Daytona International Speedway.

At COTA:

  • Christian Eckes will make his first road-course start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Circuit of the Americas.
  • Eckes has made four starts at the track in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and earned two top-10 finishes.
  • Last week, Eckes recorded the fastest lap of the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, awarding him one championship point. He was in position to earn a top-five finish, before being hooked into the outside wall on the final lap.

“I’m excited to get to a road course and rebound from our finish last week at Atlanta after showing a ton of speed. Getting on track for the first time in the Xfinity car will be challenge, but we’ve done a good bit of preparation on the simulator. Kaulig Racing has had quite a bit of success on this road course, and I’ve been able to lean on AJ [Allmendinger] quite a bit. I know he will be a great resource to us throughout this weekend.” – Christian Eckes on Circuit of the Americas  

Meet the Kaulig Racing Drivers:

Friday, February 28

AJ Allmendinger
NASCAR Classics merchandise trailer in the COTA Midway from 3:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Saturday, March 1

AJ Allmendinger
Circle K 12200 FM 969 Rd. Austin, Texas 78724 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Ty Dillon

Ty Dillon will make an appearance in the Lot H Campground on Saturday, March 1, from 8:00 – 8:15 p.m. local. Dillon will meet with campers, take photos, sign autographs, and participate in a Q & A session.

Sunday, March 2

Ty Dillon

  • Trackside Live on the EchoPark Automotive Experience Stage in the COTA Fan Zone from 11:15 – 11:30 a.m. CT.
  • Following his appearance on Trackside Live, Dillon will make his way to the NASCAR Classics Merchandise trailer from 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. to meet fans and sign autographs.

About Kaulig Racing

Kaulig Racing™ is a full-time, multi-car NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) team, owned by award winning entrepreneur, Matt Kaulig. Established in 2016, Kaulig Racing™ has earned 27 NXS wins, made the NXS Playoffs consecutively each season since the playoff system started, and won two regular-season championships. In 2021, the team competed in select NCS events, before expanding to a two-car, full-time NCS team in 2022 and adding a third, part-time entry during the 2023 season. Since its first NCS start in 2021, the team has earned two wins. Kaulig Racing is currently fielding two full-time entries in the NCS and continues to field three full-time NXS entries. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

Members of Florida rock band Shinedown named grand marshals of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding

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Bandmates Zach Myers and Barry Kerch to give the command for NTT INDYCAR SERIES drivers to start their engines

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Feb. 26, 2025) – Two members of the award-winning band Shinedown will proclaim the most famous words in motorsports “Drivers, start your engines!” for the 100-lap race on Sunday as the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES SEASON gets under way. Officials from the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding are proud to announce Zach Myers and Barry Kerch to serve in this honorary role as grand marshals.

Shinedown is one of rock’s most powerful and record-breaking bands from Jacksonville, Fla., known for its motivational and storytelling lyrics. Shinedown holds the record for the most No. 1 singles on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart with 19. In addition, the band was also ranked No. 1 by Billboard on its Greatest of All Time Mainstreams Rock Artists chart. Shinedown recently released two singles “Three Six Five” and “Dance, Kid, Dance” on January 24. The band hits the road starting in April for its two-leg American “Dance, Kid, Dance Tour.”

As announced by Meyer Shank Racing, the No. 60 SiriusXM Honda driven by Felix Rosenqvist will feature a livery with SiriusXM’s Octane (channel 37) and the multi-platinum rock band on the car. Myers and Kerch will join the team in pitlane to root on Rosenqvist adding to the race-day excitement for the duo after giving the command.

“We are very excited to welcome Jacksonville natives and rock legends Zach and Barry from Shinedown to our event this year!” said Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, organizers of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding. “This will add some extra Florida flare to a thrilling weekend as the INDYCAR season gets under way on the streets of downtown St. Petersburg.”

The 21st annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding will bring a full-weekend of high-speed action to the picturesque downtown St. Petersburg waterfront. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES headlines the event as the premier open-wheel series in North American opens its season in St. Pete for the 15th time on Sunday, March 2. The racing schedule will also feature the sport’s rising stars as INDY NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000 Presented by Continental Tire and USF2000 Presented by Continental Tire speed through the downtown streets. Additionally, Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin will provide fender-bending sports car competition.

On Thursday, Feb. 27, before the racing gets underway, two community events – INDYCAR Party in the Park and the 5K Run on the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Track – will kick off the event festivities in downtown St. Petersburg at North Straub Park. Free and open to the public, INDYCAR Party in the Park will feature driver appearances, music, giveaways, food trucks and more. Fans will be able to get up-close to race cars from all the series running during the race weekend in the park from 4-7 p.m. ET.

Additionally, runners and walkers have a unique opportunity to “race on track” during the 5K Run on the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Track set for 5 p.m. ET on Feb. 27. The race starts and ends on Bayshore Drive NE, adjacent to North Straub Park. Participants can register now at gpstpete5k.com while supplies last with all proceeds benefiting the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg.

Both 3-Day and Single Day Grandstand and General Admission tickets are available starting as low as $30. For complete pricing, schedule and festival information, visit gpstpete.com. Follow the event on social media using @gpstpete and #FirestoneGP for the latest updates. Joining the E-Club also provides insider access to the latest news and offers.

About Shinedown:

Multi-platinum band Shinedown have cemented their status as one of the most vital and forward-thinking powerhouses in music, embodying the kind of creative dynamism that transcends boundaries with over 6.5 billion global streams, a record-breaking 22 #1 rock hits, 15 platinum and gold singles, platinum or gold certification for all of their albums, 10 million albums sold worldwide, and major media acclaim. They are known for their timely and honest messages behind their chart-topping songs that resonate with not only their global audience and the rock community, but our culture at large. History continues to be made as Shinedown is the #1 artist on Billboard’s Greatest Of All Time Mainstream Rock Artists Chart, after notching the most ever #1s (19) in the history of the Mainstream Rock Songs Chart with a string of consecutive #1 hit singles. Mediabase has also cemented Shinedown as the greatest rock band in history with an award for the most No. 1’s, Top 5’s and Top 10’s in Mediabase Active Rock Chart history. The band’s latest juggernaut track “A Symptom Of Being Human,” (off of their 7th studio album Planet Zero) amassed over 100 million total streams and has connected with listeners worldwide across all genres with its uplifting and important message. Hailed for their high-octane live shows, explosive rock ‘n’ roll spirit, thought-provoking lyrics, and melodic sensibility, Shinedown continues to engender diehard love from millions of global fans and has racked up countless sold-out tours and festival headlining slots propelled by the undeniable power of front man Brent Smith’s voice. Shinedown is Brent Smith [vocals], Zach Myers [guitar], Eric Bass [bass, production], and Barry Kerch [drums]. 2025 sees the band ready to continue their history making rise as they recently released two singles “Dance, Kid, Dance” and “Three Six Five” as a way to kick off the year as well announced a massive arena tour making stops at Madison Square Garden, Kia Forum and more.

About Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding:

The 21st annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding is a race event held during Florida’s spring break season. Traditionally the site of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES’ season-opening race, St. Pete is a destination city hosting this annual motorsports tradition and offering a festival atmosphere with its downtown location. The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding airs live on a national broadcast on FOX. FOX Sports named the race one of its “50 Events You Can’t Miss in 2025.” The temporary circuit is a 1.8-mile, 14-turn configuration that uses the streets circling Pioneer Park, the Duke Energy Center for the Arts, The Dali Museum and extending onto the runway at Albert Whitted Airport, and borders the waterfront of Tampa Bay and picturesque St. Petersburg Harbor and Marina. The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding is owned and operated by Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC. Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC is owned by Green Savoree Racing Promotions 2, LLC whose other subsidiaries also promote three additional NTT INDYCAR SERIES races, The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio (July 4-6, 2025), Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto (July 18-20, 2025) and BITNILE.COM Grand Prix of Portland (Aug. 8-10, 2025).

For more information, visit gpstpete.com, ‘like’ its Facebook page @GPSTPETE or follow the event on X at @GPSTPETE and Instagram at @GPSTPETE using #FirestoneGP.

Toyota GAZOO Racing Weekly Preview 2.26.25

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This Week in Motorsports: February 24 – March 2, 2025

  • NCS/NXS: Circuit of the Americas – March 1-2

PLANO, Texas (Feb. 26, 2025) – NASCAR enters its first road course weekend of the 2025 season as the Cup and Xfinity Series head to the Lone Star State and Circuit of the Americas (COTA). This will be the fifth time NASCAR races on the Texas road course, and this year both series will run the shorter, 2.3-mile course compared to the 3.41 miles the sport previously ran the last four years.

NASCAR National Series – NCS/NXS

Five Toyotas in top-13 in points to start 2025 … Toyota GAZOO Racing has had a solid start to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season as five of its nine full-time drivers currently sit inside the top-13 of the series points standings, including Tyler Reddick (third), Bubba Wallace (fifth), John Hunter Nemechek (seventh), Christopher Bell (12th) and Denny Hamlin (13th). Bell is coming off a dramatic win at Atlanta last weekend and Nemechek is one of just two drivers who hold top-10 finishes in both races so far in 2025.

Bell continues top-10 runs … With his victory Sunday in Atlanta, Bell has now secured 13 top-10 finishes in the last 17 Cup Series races, dating back to Indianapolis last July. The Oklahoma native led the Cup Series in top-five (tied at 15) and top-10 (23) finishes last season and has already added his first of such finishes this season. Bell also returns to a favorable COTA circuit this weekend, where he has top-five finishes in half of his starts, including a second-place result last season.

Reddick looks to continue COTA success … COTA is a track that ideally suits Reddick and his driving style. The 23XI Racing driver has had tremendous success at the Texas road course in its four Cup Series races, finishing inside the top-10 in each race, including his win in 2023 – his first triumph with 23XI Racing. Additionally, Reddick has started inside the top-five in all four COTA races, including on the pole position in 2021.

Heim begins part-time Xfinity Series schedule … As a part of last weekend’s announcement, Corey Heim will run select races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series this season with Sam Hunt Racing that includes this weekend at COTA. The Georgia native makes his Xfinity Series debut at COTA, but was the victor in the Truck Series race a season ago. This weekend marks Heim’s 18th career Xfinity Series start, where he has three top-fives and five top-10s so far.

Herbst returns to a GR Supra … Riley Herbst will be driving the No. 19 GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) this weekend, taking on double duty this weekend along with his full-time ride with 23XI Racing in the Cup Series. This will be Herbst’s first Xfinity Series start with Toyota since 2020, as he ran one full-time and two part-time seasons with JGR from 2018-2020. Saturday will also be Herbst’s fifth career Xfinity Series start at COTA, with a career-best finish of 10th in 2023.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs nearly 64,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 49 million cars and trucks at our 14 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 31 electrified options.

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

Rebel Bourbon Rolls Out Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel Bourbon

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One-of-a-kind bourbon release takes the Rebel sponsorship of Richard Childress Racing to a new level

ST. LOUIS (Feb. 26, 2025) – Bardstown, Kentucky-based Rebel Bourbon – the Official Bourbon of Richard Childress Racing – announced the limited-edition release of Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel Bourbon. Every barrel was selected by two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle “Rowdy” Busch and bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV) in honor of Rebel’s sponsorship of RCR.

The new limited-edition release is handcrafted according to Rebel’s original time-honored wheated recipe since 1849 and aged for a full four years to provide robust flavor and a velvety smooth finish with a hint of spice. An allocation of 5,000 cases (6-in) of Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel is available nationwide at a suggested minimum retail price of $39.99 per 750mL bottle.

“We wanted to do something we’ve never done before, in the spirit of living against the grain and doing things your own way, and KB 108 is the perfect answer,” said Philip Lux, Rebel Bourbon brand manager. “Kyle selected every barrel for this one-of-a-kind release with the guidance of Master Distiller John Rempe. Each barrel was hand-bottled, giving each bottle a bit of rebellious character and a flavor profile to match! This special release is made to be enjoyed by collectors and fans of Rebel, Kyle and RCR alike.”

Every bottle’s front label includes prominent placement of the unique barrel number selected by Busch, plus the bourbon’s proof and “aged since” date details. The distinctive label also includes Busch’s signature, number and the RCR logo.

“This sponsorship really is about living life with a rebellious spirit, and I had fun picking barrels on my own terms for this special limited-edition release,” said Busch. “I’m proud to have my name on every bottle and excited for fans nationwide to experience something new from Rebel Bourbon and RCR.”

Rebel Bourbon has plans for more excitement and fan fun ahead in 2025, and the release of Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel takes the sponsorship’s momentum to a new level. Rebel is a multi-race sponsor of the No. 8 Chevrolet and Busch with an all-new paint scheme born from American white oak Rebel Bourbon barrels and designed to honor the brand’s craftsmanship. Busch takes the wheel of the No. 8 Rebel Bourbon Chevrolet in select NASCAR Cup Series races including the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix March 2 in Austin, Texas. To learn more about Rebel-RCR news and events in race markets, follow Rebel on Facebook and Instagram, and RCR on Facebook and Instagram, and visit RebelBourbon.com and rcrracing.com. Use the product locator to find Rebel Bourbon products in specific locations.

Rebel Bourbon and Richard Childress Racing remind everyone 21 and older to drink responsibly – and never drink and drive.

About Luxco:

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora Gonzalez Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com.

About Richard Childress Racing:

Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2025 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Jesse Love (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

Forte Racing VPRC Program Carries Momentum into Circuit of the Americas Race

By
Official Release
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Bronze Cup Success at Daytona Sets the Stage for COTA Weekend

Monrovia, California (Wednesday, February 26, 2025) — After a strong showing at the ROAR Before the 24, Forte Racing heads to Circuit of the Americas (COTA) for the next round of the IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge. Brian Thienes is bringing confidence and valuable experience to the Texas track after securing a combined two Bronze Cup podium finishes at Daytona.

Thienes’ teammate, Jon Hirshberg, also scored two Bronze Cup podium finishes at Daytona, but due to a scheduling conflict, he will not be racing at COTA.

Building on Daytona’s Success

In the season-opening weekend, returning veteran Brian Thienes delivered consistent performances, finishing 5th overall (2nd in Bronze Cup) on Saturday and 4th overall (1st in Bronze Cup) on Sunday.

“We had good results. The team gave me a great car,” Thienes said after Race 2. “I ran in second for a while, and then on the restart, I got up to first. That was my first time leading in an IMSA race. Hats off to Peter Jacobs; he always knows what to do. He puts a good horse underneath my saddle. I’m looking forward to the next race weekend where we hope to improve on our results.”

Jon Hirshberg, in just his third VPRC event weekend, impressed in his first races at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, navigating challenging conditions with determination and skill, while still learning the intricacies of multi-class racing.

“The race of my life!” Hirshberg said after Race 2. “Standing on the Bronze Cup podium was an unforgettable moment. Great job by the team with the car setup. I want to extend my thanks to Patrick Liddy, Peter Jacobs, and Garrison Masters for making the adjustments I needed to feel comfortable in the car. It really was a once-in-a-lifetime experience being in the rain in the straight and in the bus stop. Not being able to see while going a hundred and some miles per hour was a challenge. I learned a ton. It was a super exciting race, and I can’t wait to get back out there.”

“The drivers across the multiple different classes were incredibly professional,” Hirshberg added. “It was awesome to be out there sharing the track with them and navigating the pace differences. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Team engineer Peter Jacobs praised Hirshberg’s quick adaptation and steady improvement. “I think Jon did a good job, especially considering his lack of experience in the car. His fast lap was pretty close to that of the top Bronze Cup finishers, and he was running very consistent laps toward the end of the race. Once he’s got some more seat time, he’ll be a contender in the Bronze Cup.”

Looking Ahead to COTA

With momentum on their side, Forte Racing is ready to tackle the twists and elevation changes of Circuit of the Americas. Thienes’ experience has the team looking for another promising result this weekend.

Thienes heads to COTA leading the Bronze Cup Championship by 40 points. He currently sits in fifth place overall, just 10 points behind fourth place and 20 points back from third place. Having finished the 2024 season third overall, Thienes is looking to close the gap and move up in the overall standings with some strong finishes on Saturday.

“COTA is such a dynamic track, and we’re feeling good coming off Daytona,” said team principal Shane Seneviratne. “Brian and Jon both showed incredible resilience and speed in the opening rounds at Daytona. We’ve reviewed the data, and the crew is working hard to dial in the setup for Brian’s car. We’re excited to see what we can do in Austin.”

The VPRC field takes to the track this week, with practice sessions beginning Friday, followed by two races on Saturday. Saturday’s Race 1 will air on Peacock from 9:35 AM to 10:35 AM ET, with Race 2 airing also on Peacock from 5:55 PM to 6:45 PM ET. Tune in and support Forte Racing’s Brian Thienes.

ABOUT FORTE RACING

Founded in 2023, Forte Racing is a motorsports team based in Los Angeles and Charlotte, supported by Lamborghini Squadra Corse. Under the watchful eye of Shane Seneviratne, the team competes in various racing series, including the IMSA WeatherTech GTD Championship, the IMSA VP Racing Sportscar Challenge, and Lamborghini Super Trofeo and, in 2025, plans to expand by adding a single-car entry in the inaugural McLaren Trophy America Championship. Operating under the US RaceTronics banner, the team has quickly built a strong reputation with multiple podium finishes, race wins, and several North American and World Championships. For more information about the team, its drivers, and race operations, visit www.forteracing.com.

JR Motorsports – NXS Circuit of the Americas Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview
TRACK – Circuit of the Americas Road Course (2.4-mile road course)
NXS RACE – Focused Health 250 (65 laps / 156 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, PRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 2:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil
No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet
Kvapil 2025 NXS Stats
Starts: 2
Wins: 0
Top 5s: 1
Top 10s: 1
Laps Led: 0
Avg. Finish: 13.5
Points: 9th

  • Carson Kvapil will make his first start at Circuit of the Americas in the NASCAR Xfinity Series this Saturday.
  • Kvapil has one start on the previous layout of the Texas road course in the Trans Am 2 series. He qualified on the pole and finished one spot outside the top five in sixth.
  • Crew chief Andrew Overstreet also has one start at COTA, leading the No. 1 team to a top-10 finish in 2023.

Carson Kvapil

“We did not have the race we wanted last weekend, so this team is looking for redemption at COTA. I have run well there in the past with the TA2 series and I know this No. 1 Bass Pro Shops/Clarience Technologies team is working hard to unload a fast car this weekend. Hopefully we can apply what we have been working on and everything will fall into place to have us running up front when it counts. I want to bring home a great finish for Johnny Morris and everyone at Bass Pro Shops and Clarience Technologies.”

Justin Allgaier
No. 7 Brandt Professional Agriculture / Rev1 Energy Chevrolet
Allgaier 2025 NXS Stats
Starts: 2
Wins: 0
Top 5s: 1
Top 10s: 1
Laps Led: 11
Avg. Finish: 10
Points: 4th

  • Justin Allgaier makes his fifth career start at COTA in the NXS on Saturday afternoon.
  • In four previous starts at the Austin road course, Allgaier has earned two top fives, with a best finish of third coming in the inaugural event in 2021.
  • Allgaier is a three-time winner on road courses in the NXS, with two of the wins coming behind the wheel of a JRM Chevrolet in 2018 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Road America. Allgaier’s first victory on a road course in the NXS came during in the 2012 season at Montreal.
  • This weekend Allgaier’s BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet will be sharing their colors with REV1 Energy, the global leader in integrated commissioning and electrical services.

Justin Allgaier

“COTA has always been a fun road course to race on, but this weekend brings a whole new set of challenges with this reconfigured layout. We’ve always had strong Chevrolets on the road courses and I know that Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) will give me another strong BRANDT Professional Agriculture / REV 1 Energy Chevrolet when we hit the track for practice and qualifying on Friday. Hopefully we can keep all four fenders on the car all weekend long and be there when it counts on Saturday.”

Sammy Smith
No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet
Smith 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 2
Wins: 0
Top 5s: 1
Top 10s: 1
Laps Led: 1
Avg. Finish: 14
Points: 11th

  • Saturday afternoon marks Sammy Smith’s third start at COTA in the NXS.
  • In his two previous starts at the Texas road course, Smith has earned a best finish of fourth, coming in 2023.
  • Over the past three seasons, Smith has competed on a road course in the NXS 14 times, tallying three top fives and five top 10s.
  • According to NASCAR’s Loop Data Statistics, Smith is second in best average running position at COTA, averaging just over a 10th place running position throughout the course of a race at the 2.4-mile road course.

Sammy Smith

“I’m ready to get to COTA this weekend to continue the momentum from Atlanta and redeem ourselves from this race last year when we had a fast No. 8 Chevrolet but unfortunately got caught up in a late-race incident. This JR Motorsports crew has kept their heads down and focused on getting results so I know we’ll have a really competitive No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet to start off our first road course of the season.”

Ross Chastain
No. 9 Acceptance Insurance Chevrolet
Chastain NXS Career Stats
Starts: 208
Wins: 2
Top 5s: 24
Top 10s: 53
Laps Led: 680
Avg. Finish: 16.6
Points: N/A

  • Ross Chastain makes his third career NXS start at COTA this weekend, as well as his first start for JRM.
  • Saturday afternoon’s race marks Chastain’s first of five races behind the wheel of the No. 9 Acceptance Insurance Chevrolet for JRM this year.
  • The Chevrolet driver earned a best finish of 17th at the Texas road course in the 2022 NXS race.
  • Chastain has one NASCAR Cup Series win at COTA. In March 2022, he led 31 laps and captured the win in a thrilling finish. In addition to piloting the No. 9 Acceptance Insurance Chevrolet in the NXS, he will also compete in Sunday’s 95-lap Cup Series race.

Ross Chastain

“I’m excited to get to COTA with Acceptance Insurance on the car and for the other four Xfinity Series races we have coming up. Trackhouse Racing, Justin Marks, Acceptance Insurance and JR Motorsports have helped provide me with an opportunity to get more seat time in the Xfinity Series which I’m really looking forward to. JRM has always been strong and I can’t wait to see what we can do.”

Connor Zilisch
No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet
Zilisch 2025 NXS Stats
Starts: 2
Wins: 0
Top 5s: 0
Top 10s: 0
Laps Led: 1
Avg. Finish: 30.5
Points: 32nd

  • Connor Zilisch will compete at COTA for the first time in his NXS career on Saturday. The driver of the WeatherTech Chevrolet will be making just his second NXS road course start as well.
  • Zilisch made his first NASCAR national series start in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event at COTA in March 2024. He won the pole position on the way to scoring a fourth-place finish.
  • Zilisch made his NXS debut (and first road course start) in September 2024 with JRM at Watkins Glen International. In a remarkable accomplishment, Zilisch won the pole, led the most laps (45) and won the race.
  • NASCAR weekend at COTA will be a busy one for Zilisch. The 18-year old Mooresville, N.C., native will be making his Cup Series debut with Trackhouse Racing March 2 in the Echo Park Automotive Grand Prix at the Austin, TX, road course, marking the first time the JRM driver will be doing double duty.

Connor Zilisch

“I think we’re going to be one of the best cars on road courses all year long just because of my background and my confidence on these kind of tracks. Going into this weekend at COTA I feel confident that we’re going to be able to run really well. I’m excited to feel it out and just get a feel for what the WeatherTech Chevrolet is like there.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Circuit of the Americas: JR Motorsports has competed at COTA a combined 18 times in the NXS. In those starts at the 2.5-mile road course, the organization has recorded four top fives and eight top 10s. The average finish is 15.6.

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

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