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Daniel Suárez to headline Jan. 25 Speedway Open House at AMS

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Official Release
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HAMPTON, Ga. (Jan. 7, 2025) – Two-time NASCAR Cup Series winner Daniel Suárez will headline the slate of fan entertainment and activities at Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Speedway Open House on Saturday, Jan. 25, which is free and open to the public.

Suárez’s most recent NASCAR victory came in last year’s running of the Ambetter Health 400 at AMS, which saw the driver of the No. 99 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet triumph in a thrilling three-wide photo finish. Before he hits Atlanta’s high banks to defend his win in next month’s running of the Ambetter Health 400 (Sunday, Feb. 23 at 3 p.m. ET), Suárez will make an appearance at the Jan. 25 Speedway Open House for a Q&A with fans and an autograph session with eligible ticketholders in the speedway’s luxurious Club One suite.

The NASCAR Cup Series star’s fan engagement will be just one part of a day full of activities and entertainment for fans to enjoy during the Speedway Open House. The Speedway will open its doors to fans from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with live music by singer and songwriter Presley Barker and fan Q&As will special guests all happening in Club One. Attendees will also enjoy games and activities at the speedway and be welcomed explore the 1.54-mile oval and surrounding facility.

Following the Speedway Open House at 3 p.m., fans in attendance will also have an opportunity to enjoy grassroots Legends and Bandolero racing on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s ¼ mile Thunder Ring.

The Speedway Open House event is free to attend, however Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR event ticketholders will have the exclusive opportunity to participate in the Daniel Suárez autograph session. Fans interested in attending the Speedway Open House should let AMS know at https://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/openhouse/.

Atlanta Motor Speedway’s first major event of 2025 comes just four weeks after the open house when NASCAR visits Georgia for the Ambetter Health 400 weekend Feb. 21-23. The Speedway Open House will enable guests to scout the best seats for that race weekend as well as the June 27-28 Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart weekend and other events like Monster Jam, which comes to AMS April 12 and 13.

Fans can find updates on the Speedway Open House and more information about 2025 events at AMS at www.AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

About the Ambetter Health 400 weekend:

Atlanta’s spring NASCAR weekend is headlined by the Ambetter Health 400 on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, with intense, superspeedway pack racing that challenges NASCAR’s best and dazzles fans.

The race weekend also features the 11th year of Atlanta’s same-day NASCAR doubleheader on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. The thrills of the Fr8 208 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race and the Bennett Transportation and Logistics 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race all happen in one action-packed day.

More information on the Feb. 21-23, 2025, Ambetter Health 400 weekend and ticket availability can be found online at AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

About the Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart:

Atlanta’s Night Race returns with the Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart on Saturday night, June 28, 2025. Sparks will fly as NASCAR’s best duel under the lights on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s challenging high banks.

The rising stars of the NASCAR Xfinity Series bring the action Friday night in the Focused Health 250 on June 27.

Adding even higher stakes to the weekend is the first running of NASCAR’s $1 million In-Season Tournament. 32 of NASCAR’s stars will be paired against each other in a bracket-style elimination tournament that begins at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

More information on the June 27-28 Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart weekend and ticket availability can be found online at AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

About Atlanta Motor Speedway:

Atlanta Motor Speedway is a premier entertainment venue located about 30 miles south of Atlanta, Ga.

Since 1960, AMS has been a staple of the NASCAR calendar and currently hosts two weekends of racing in the spring and fall each year. When NASCAR isn’t in town, Atlanta Motor Speedway’s versatile facility hosts an assortment of events that attract visitors from near and far, from Monster Jam to the Georgia State Fair and everything between.

Keep track of all of Atlanta Motor Speedway’s events by following on Twitter, Instagram, and become a Facebook fan. Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Atlanta Motor Speedway mobile app.

CLARIOS AND OPTIMA BATTERIES ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP WITH FORD PERFORMANCE DAKAR RALLY PROGRAM

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Official Release
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The battery industry powerhouses continue their commitment to product development at the highest level of motorsport by partnering with four-vehicle Ford Raptor T1+ racing effort

GLENDALE (Jan. 7, 2025) – CLARIOS, the company behind OPTIMA Batteries, has announced an exciting new collaboration at the pinnacle of off-road racing – the Dakar Rally. Partnering with the legendary Ford Performance team, OPTIMA Batteries will be joining one of the world’s most grueling off-road races to back a four-vehicle racing effort driven by champions like Carlos Sainz Sr., Nani Roma, Mattias Ekstrom and Mitch Guthrie Jr.

To highlight the engineering capabilities and determination of the Ford Performance team, four Ford Raptor T1+ vehicles – considered the ultimate Raptor by Ford Performance – will be racing in the Ultimate T1+ category at the Dakar Rally and other rally-raid competitions. In partnership with Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries, the Ford Performance Raptor T1+ vehicles will flaunt OPTIMA Batteries’ signature rocker panel integrated into the Ford Performance livery and be supported by the OPTIMA Batteries team.

The four-vehicle Ford Raptor T1+ vehicles will sport OPTIMA Batteries signature rocker panel integrated into the Ford Performance livery.
The decision to partner with Ford Performance was driven by Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries’ continued efforts to push their battery systems to the limit. Using motorsport racing efforts as the highest level of research and field testing, Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries can test products in grueling terrain, inclement weather and high-stress scenarios.

“When you take on a challenge the size of Dakar, everything needs to be right,” said Global Director of Ford Performance Mark Rushbrook. “OPTIMA has a long tradition of building great products that meet demanding conditions.”

With the 14-day, 4,784-mile race already underway, the teams at Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries are looking forward to the conclusion of the ultimate shake-down.

“Very few other races have the lengthy run-time, variety of terrain and sheer adversity that comes with the Dakar Rally,” said OPTIMA Batteries Director of Marketing Cam Douglass. “When OPTIMA Batteries and Clarios can compete at this level alongside Ford Performance, we can have confidence in the products we provide to our daily drivers and recreational fun-haver community.”

Fans can see updates from the Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries-backed Ford Performance Dakar Rally drivers by following along with OPTIMA Batteries and Ford Performance social media.

About Clarios
Clarios is the global leader in advanced, low-voltage battery technologies for mobility. Our batteries and smart solutions power nearly every type of vehicle and are found in 1 of 3 cars on the road today. With around 18,000 employees in over 100 countries, we bring deep expertise to our Aftermarket and OEM partners, and reliability, safety and comfort to everyday lives. We answer to the planet with a rigorous sustainability focus – advancing best-in-class sustainability practices and advocating for them across our industry. We work to ensure 100% of our products sold are recyclable, and we recycle 8,000 batteries an hour in our network. Clarios is a Brookfield portfolio company.

About OPTIMA® Batteries
OPTIMA high-performance automotive, marine and heavy-duty AGM batteries are manufactured by Clarios, LLC, the world’s largest manufacturer of automotive batteries. OPTIMA REDTOP®, YELLOWTOP® and BLUETOP® batteries feature state-of-the-art SPIRALCELL TECHNOLOGY®. This patented design allows OPTIMA batteries to deliver superior performance in both starting and deep cycling applications. The OPTIMA product family also includes a line of Digital Chargers, with advanced multi-stage charging to charge and maintain a variety of vehicle batteries, maximizing battery life and performance. The newest additions to the OPTIMA YELLOWTOP line are now offered in DIN group sizes H6 and H7. This offering allows a variety of modern vehicles, ranging from late-model domestic performance to European models, to experience the power and performance of OPTIMA Batteries. To learn more or to purchase OPTIMA products, please visit www.optimabatteries.com, call 1-888-8OPTIMA (1-888-867-8462) or find @OPTIMABatteries on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

MINER and Spire Motorsports Launch Integrated Partnership for 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Season

By
Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 7, 2025) – Today, MINER Ltd., the self-perform, national service partner for smarter, safer loading docks and Spire Motorsports, announced a multi-faceted partnership that aligns two organizations committed to safety and reliability.

The partnership includes MINER serving as the exclusive dock and door services provider for Spire Motorsports’ facilities, as well as the primary sponsor of Carson Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevrolet for multiple NASCAR Cup Series races in 2025. MINER will also maintain an associate sponsorship presence with Hocevar and the No. 77 Cup Series team across the 2025 season.

MINER specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining critical logistics equipment—including warehouse dock doors and levelers, commercial sectional overhead doors, HVLS fans, and related facility accessories. MINER delivers unparalleled service and expertise, ensuring facilities have access to innovative solutions that drive efficiency, reliability, and safety. The initial installation in Spire Motorsports’ race shop and showroom integrates durable glass doors and supporting equipment, enhancing security while preserving visibility and introducing a sleek, modern aesthetic.

The company’s nationwide service footprint delivers proactive maintenance strategies and rapid emergency response, ensuring clients’ equipment operates at peak performance. The company also supports end users, general contractors, architects, and developers, from ground-up developments to tenant improvement or remodels.

“This is a unique opportunity to align with a sport that truly exemplifies speed, safety, performance, and teamwork— values that resonate deeply with MINER’s mission and culture,” said MINER President, Dave Wright. “We’re thrilled to partner with Spire Motorsports and excited to build a successful partnership for the future.”

Hocevar, a Portage, Mich., native earned top 2024 rookie honors on the strength of one top-five, six top-10 and 13 top-15 finishes. In his first full season at the controls of the No. 77 Chevrolet, Hocevar brought home a career best third-place finish in the Cup Series September visit to Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International. The 21-year-old impressed throughout his rookie campaign and was the top finishing rookie in 15 races on NASCAR’s senior circuit in 2024. He out-distanced his next closest competitor by a handsome 107-point advantage when the checkered flag fell on the season finale at Phoenix Raceway. Hocevar made his NCS debut for Spire Motorsports on June 4, 2023 at World Wide Technology Raceway.

“It’s exciting to carry the momentum from 2024 and winning the Cup Series rookie of the year into the off season by adding MINER to Spire Motorsports’ family of partners,” said Hocevar. “We’ve got a lot of great things happening and we’re already off to a good start. MINER is a great company, and we share the same commitment to performing at the highest level. It seems like we just wrapped last season but we’re full speed ahead for 2025.”

In its first season as a three-car operation in NASCAR’s premier division, Spire Motorsports campaigned the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets. The Mooresville, N.C., team collected four top-five and 13 top-10 finishes while also fielding the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.

About MINER …
Miner Ltd. is the leading self-perform, national service partner for smarter, safer loading docks and a division of OnPoint Group. As the premier expert in loading docks, commercial doors and more, Miner’s team of best-in-class service professionals help large-scale facilities and Fortune 500-class companies mitigate risk and improve efficiency. With over 400 service professionals in more than 40 markets, Miner is the only company of its kind with a coast to coast footprint, offering the largest self-perform network in the country for supporting all doors, loading dock products, vehicle restraints and safety products, HVLS fans, service, aftermarket and more. Miner also supports end users, general contractors, architects, and developers, from ground-up developments to tenant improvement or extensive remodels. Learn more about how Miner delivers speed, consistency and results at https://www.minercorp.com.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022 at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on April 12, 2024, when Kyle Busch took the checkered flag in the SpeedyCash.com 250 at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team will also field the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.

Zane Smith’s Return to Front Row Motorsports is a Strategic move for the 2025 NASCAR Season

By
SM
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Photo by Stephanie McLaughlin for SpeedwayMedia.com

Zane Smith is making a noteworthy return to the racing world, bringing his skills back to Front Row Motorsports. This move is seen as a strategic alignment for both Smith and the team in the 2025 NASCAR season. Understanding the implications of this return offers insights into the dynamics of motorsports strategy.

For those following NASCAR, Zane Smith’s name is synonymous with youthful talent and ambition. Front Row Motorsports (FRM) fans and analysts want to see how this seasoned driver will impact the upcoming racing season. The 25-year-old Huntington Beach native has previously left a mark in the series, and his return is laden with expectations. This reunion signifies personal growth for Smith and hints at promising prospects for FRM. 

Zane Smith’s Racing Journey

Smith’s career in NASCAR has been marked by significant achievements, establishing him as a formidable contender on the track. His previous tenure with Front Row Motorsports showcased his potential and set the stage for future successes. During his time away from the team, Smith honed his skills, gaining invaluable experience and insights that he now brings back to the No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

His growth during this period cannot be understated. As he navigated various racing circuits, Smith developed a deeper understanding of race dynamics and vehicle mechanics, which has enhanced his performance and strategy planning. His level of knowledge is likely equivalent to that of an electrical and computer engineering masters as he has truly engrossed himself in this aspect of racing.

This technical background he now has provides him with a unique edge, enabling him to better communicate with engineers and understand the intricacies of vehicle enhancements. It positions him well within a team increasingly reliant on technology to gain competitive advantages.

The Strategic Move

The decision for Smith to return to Front Row Motorsports is not merely about rekindling past associations – it’s a calculated step that aligns with both personal ambitions and team objectives. By rejoining Front Row Motorsports, Smith aims to leverage his expanded skill set while aligning with a team eager to elevate its performance.

This strategic move comes at a critical juncture as both Smith and FRM seek a harmonious blend of experience and innovation to tackle the challenges of the 2025 season. The synergy between driver expertise and engineering prowess is expected to enhance race outcomes significantly.

Moreover, this alignment reflects an overarching trend in motorsports where teams prioritize technological integration as part of their core strategy. The ability to utilize advanced engineering solutions is becoming increasingly crucial in crafting winning formulas on the track.

Technological Advancements in Motorsports

In today’s NASCAR landscape, technology plays an indispensable role in shaping race strategies and outcomes. From aerodynamics to data analytics, every aspect of racing is influenced by technological advancements that provide teams with competitive edges.

For instance, utilizing cutting-edge simulation tools allows teams to test various scenarios without physical trials, saving time and resources while optimizing performance strategies. Similarly, innovations in materials science contribute to building lighter yet sturdier vehicles that can withstand the rigors of high-speed racing.

FRM recognizes these trends and invests in integrating such technologies into its operations. Doing so ensures they remain at the forefront of competitive racing while adapting swiftly to evolving technological landscapes.

The Role of Engineering in Racing Success

Engineering disciplines such as electrical and computer engineering are pivotal in developing technologies that propel motorsports teams toward success. These fields significantly enhance vehicle efficiency, improve safety measures, and optimize race strategies through data-driven insights.

Electrical engineering plays a crucial role in sports car racing, where performance is paramount. Advanced electrical systems control crucial components such as engine management, telemetry, and aerodynamics – ensuring optimal performance on the track. Real-time data from sensors monitors tire pressure, fuel levels, and temperature, allowing teams to make quick adjustments. Hybrid powertrains, utilizing both traditional engines and electric motors, rely on sophisticated electrical systems for energy regeneration and distribution. Additionally, cutting-edge communication and GPS technologies enable seamless coordination between drivers and pit crews.

Future Prospects for Front Row Motorsports

With enhanced capabilities stemming from technological integrations coupled with seasoned driving expertise embodied by Smith himself – expectations run high regarding potential outcomes from this collaboration.

FRM aims not just for immediate gains but strives towards establishing itself as one of the top-tier contenders within competitive circuits – an ambition fueled by strategic investments into human resources alongside technological advancements, ensuring sustained growth over timeframes extending beyond current projections alone!

Smith’s return to Front Row Motorsports for the 2025 NASCAR season marks a significant step for the driver and the team. With Smith’s refined skills and the team’s commitment to technological innovation, this collaboration promises to elevate their performance on the track. As both parties work together, the future looks bright, setting the stage for potential successes in the seasons ahead.

Hélio Castroneves joins Trackhouse Racing for first NASCAR & Daytona 500 bid in 2025

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Joe Skibinski (Penske Entertainment).

Hélio Castroneves will etch a new chapter to his iconic racing career by attempting to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut for this year’s 67th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.

The four-time Indianapolis 500 champion from São Paulo, Brazil, will join forces with Trackhouse Racing’s PROJECT91 program and pilot the organization’s No. 91 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry sponsored by Wendy’s throughout Daytona Speedweeks that leads to the 2025 Great American Race, which is scheduled to occur on February 16. In addition, Darian Grubb, the 2011 Cup Series championship-winning crew chief, will work atop the No. 91 pit box.

The news comes as Castroneves is coming off a part-time campaign in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES with Meyer Shank Racing (MSR), an organization that he is an ownership partner to and delivered the team’s first victory during the 105th running of the Indianapolis 500 in 2021. Throughout the 2024 season, he competed in three events, including the 108th Indy 500. He will compete with MSR for a starting spot in this year’s 109th Indy 500 in May, which would mark his 25th consecutive start in the Great Spectacle in Racing.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would enter a NASCAR race and certainly not the Daytona 500 with a team like Trackhouse Racing,” Castroneves said. “This is an opportunity that nobody in their right mind could ever turn down. I am so thankful to Wendy’s for allowing me to wear their uniform and drive their car, [Trackhouse owner] Justin Marks and everyone that made this happen. I wish the race were tomorrow!”

Castroneves, who grew up competing in go-karts before his career blossomed within open-wheel and sports car competition, is a four-time champion of the Indianapolis 500, where he claimed his first two victories in back-to-back seasons in 2001 and 2002. After winning his third in 2009, the Brazilian endured a 12-year winless journey, where he finished second twice within the span before he claimed his fourth in 2021, which placed him in a tie with AJ Foyt, Al Unser Sr. and Rick Mears for the most Indy 500 victories of all time.

In addition to his four Indy 500 victories, Castroneves has accumulated a total of 25 INDYCAR victories and has finished in the runner-up spot in the final championship standings four times. He also claimed three consecutive 24 Hours of Daytona victories (2021-23) and is the 2020 IMSA SportsCar champion, the latter of which he accomplished while driving for Team Penske.

Should he both qualify and win this year’s Daytona 500, Castroneves would join Mario Andretti and A.J. Foyt as the only competitors to win both the Great American Race and the Indianapolis 500.

“I know how much of a challenge this is going to be, but I also know the type of people and team Trackhouse Racing will bring to the effort,” Castroneves added. “I can’t wait to get to the Trackhouse race shop in North Carolina to meet everyone and prepare for Daytona. There is so much I must learn and I’m ready to get started.”

The addition of Castroneves to Trackhouse Racing’s PROJECT91 program brings enthusiasm and excitement for owner, Justin Marks. The team debuted PROJECT91 in 2022, featuring iconic motorsports competitors around the globe to compete in NASCAR’s premier series.

Thus far, PROJECT91 has made a total of four appearances in the Cup Series between the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Kimi Räikkönen, the 2007 Formula 1 champion, debuted the program at Watkins Glen International in 2022 before he returned to compete at Circuit of the Americas in 2023. Then in July 2023, Shane van Gisbergen, a three-time Supercars champion, took the occasion by storm when he won at the Chicago Street Course during his NASCAR debut. After making an additional start with Project 91 a month later at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, van Gisbergen landed a full-time Xfinity Series ride at Kaulig Racing this past season. In 2025, he will compete on a full-time Cup basis with Trackhouse Racing.

The 2025 Daytona 500 will mark the first time Trackhouse Racing has fielded four entries in a single event if Castroneves successfully qualifies. It will also be the first Cup event featuring PROJECT91 since Indianapolis in 2023. Trackhouse is fielding three full-time entries in a Cup season for the first time in 2025. Van Gisbergen, Ross Chastain and Daniel Suarez will all return as full-time competitors for the organization.

“Hélio is one of the greatest drivers of all time and exactly the type of driver we want to bring to NASCAR,” Marks said. “I think race fans around the world will be excited to see Hélio in NASCAR’s most prestigious race. It also exposes our sport to a global audience and allows them to see just how great of a series we have in NASCAR.”

To make this year’s Daytona 500 as a non-chartered entry, Helio Castroneves’ 2025 Daytona Speedweeks schedule commences with the Busch Light Pole Qualifying session on February 12 at 8:15 p.m. ET on FS1. He will have to out-qualify any non-chartered entries to be guaranteed a spot. His alternative form of qualifying for the main event would next be the Daytona Duel qualifying races that will occur the following day, February 13, beginning at 7 p.m. ET on FS1, where he would have to outduel any non-chartered entries on the track to claim a starting spot.

The 2025 Daytona 500 will occur on February 16 with its coverage slated to commence at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

Austin Cindric to join Ford Multimatic Motorsports for the Rolex 24 At Daytona

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Jan. 6, 2025 – Ford Performance NASCAR Cup driver Austin Cindric has been selected to the Ford Multimatic Motorsports line-up for the IMSA-sanctioned 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona. Cindric will substitute for endurance driver Ben Barker, who broke his collarbone while skiing during the holidays. He will join the full season pairing of Mike Rockenfeller and Sebastian Priaulx in the No. 64 Ford Multimatic Motorsports Ford Mustang GT3.

“The 24 Hours of Daytona has become a very meaningful event for me and my career,” said Cindric. “This will be my sixth opportunity to run this race, and with the Ford Mustang GT3, it’s one of the best opportunities I’ll have had at taking one of those watches home.

“It’s important that I wish Ben all the best in his recovery as I get to keep his seat warm. I’m keen to do my part in contributing to a great result, but also representing Multimatic and Ford properly as they start their season in IMSA.”

The Mooresville, N.C. native is a multi-race winning driver in the premier NASCAR Cup series, including the 2022 Daytona 500 in a Team Penske Mustang.

“We have great momentum moving into the season opening round at Daytona,” offered Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “It is a difficult situation with Ben’s injury coming when it did, but we are excited to have Austin step into the Ford Mustang GT3. Austin is one of the most diverse drivers we have, a proven winner with Mustang in NASCAR and sports cars. He is a perfect fit to step in and team with Seb and Rocky at Daytona.”

Prior to a career in stock car racing, Cindric competed in major sports car racing series across North America. He proved his talent as a Ford development driver in Mustang GT4 which has included four Michelin Pilot Challenge appearances with Multimatic Motorsports at Daytona, and a 2019 race win alongside Priaulx at Road Atlanta.

“In 2025, it’ll be 10 years exactly since the first time I came down to Daytona to race for Multimatic and Ford in Michelin Pilot Challenge,” Cindric said. “That nervous 16-year-old would be happy to learn where things would be 10 years on. Needless to say, there are a lot of familiar faces. I’m grateful to get the nod, and I’m looking forward to getting to work soon.”

“It is a real shame for Ben and for the team that he will miss Daytona, but accidents happen. He is already on the mend and will be back in action soon,” said Pascal Zurlinden, Executive Vice President, Multimatic Engineering & Special Vehicle Operations. “We’re delighted to welcome Austin back to the team and we are sure he will do an excellent job, as he has always done for us.”

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 175,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com

About Ford Performance Motorsports

Ford Performance is based in Dearborn, Mich. It is responsible for Ford’s performance vehicle development and major racing operations globally, including NASCAR, IMSA, SRO British GT, FIA World Rally Championship, Supercars Championship, World of Outlaws, Ultra4, SCORE-International, FIA Rally-Raid, Formula Drift, NHRA, Rebelle Rally, Thailand Super Series and our latest commitment in Formula 1 with Red Bull Ford Powertrains. Ford Performance also maintains a constantly evolving fleet of electric performance demonstrators to showcase the limits of electrification technology. In addition, the organization also oversees the development of Ford’s racing engines, as well as the outreach programs with all Ford Clubs and Ford enthusiasts. For more information regarding Ford racing’s activities, please visit Performance.Ford.com or follow @FordPerformance on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, TikTok and YouTube.

About the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA)

The International Motor Sports Association, LLC (IMSA) was originally founded in 1969 and owns a long and rich history in sports car racing. Today, IMSA is the sanctioning body of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the premier sports car racing series in North America. IMSA also sanctions the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge and Historic Sportscar Racing, as well as five one-make series: Ferrari Challenge North America, Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America, Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin, Mustang Challenge and Porsche Carrera Cup North America. IMSA – a company within the NASCAR family – is the exclusive strategic partner in North America with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) which operates the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a part of the FIA World Endurance Championship. The partnership enables selected IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship competitors to earn automatic entries into the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. For more information please visit www.IMSA.com, x.com/imsa, www.facebook.com/IMSA or www.instagram.com/imsa_racing.

TRICON UNVEILS 2025 “ALL-STAR” TRUCK LINEUP

By
Official Release
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No. 1 Truck to Feature Four Different Drivers

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 6, 2025) – TRICON Garage (TRICON) has revealed its lineup for the No. 1 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for the upcoming NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) season. The team will compete in all 25 NCTS events, featuring a rotating cast of drivers including Brent Crews, Brandon Jones, William Sawalich and Lawless Alan.

Crews, a 16-year-old Toyota Driver Development prospect, is set to make nine starts, beginning with his debut at North Wilkesboro Speedway in May. Hailing from Hickory, North Carolina, Crews boasts a diverse racing background, having earned two ARCA Menards Series (AMS) victories and three CARS Tour Late Model Stock (LMSC) wins, along with being named the LMSC Rookie of the Year in 2024. Additionally, he captured the 2024 World Series of Asphalt super late model title at New Smyrna (FL) Speedway earning a top-five finish in all five races of the series. He also made history as the youngest winner (14 years, 3 months, 6 days) and champion (15 years, 7 months, 3 days) in Trans-AM TA2 Pro-Am Series history, in addition to numerous karting and open-wheel dirt victories.

The 27-year-old Jones is set to return to the NCTS for the first time since 2020, when he claimed a victory at Pocono (PA) Raceway and earned two top-10 finishes in a Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for Kyle Busch Motorsports. Currently the full-time pilot of a Toyota GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS), Jones brings a bevy of experience to TRICON for his seven scheduled starts. With over 350 national series appearances, Jones has accumulated six wins across both the NCTS and NXS, with a best finish of sixth in the 2020 NXS championship points standings.

For the third consecutive season, rising-star William Sawalich will make several starts with the team. The longest-tenured member of the 2025 No. 1 lineup, the 19-year-old will compete in five NCTS races, alongside his full-time duties behind the wheel of a Toyota GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Xfinity Series. In 2024, the Eden Prairie, Minnesota native made 10 starts with TRICON, highlighted by becoming the youngest polesitter in Talladega Superspeedway history. Sawalich also recently completed an impressive AMS campaign, securing 9 wins and capturing his second consecutive ARCA East Championship.

2018 Irwindale Speedway Late Model Track Champion and 2019 Trans AM TA2 Rookie of the Year, Lawless Alan will round out the TRICON lineup with four starts in 2025. Coming off his third full-time NCTS season, the 24-year-old secured his career-high finish of fifth at Talladega alongside a top five and four top-10 finishes in seven AMS starts with Reaume Brothers Racing. Alan makes the transition to the Toyota pipeline where he is slated to run the full AMS schedule for Venturini Motorsports in addition to his four truck appearances.

Jake Hampton, who has been with the organization since 2019 as a race engineer, will lead the No. 1 team from atop the pit box. In 2023, Hampton oversaw the No. 17 team as interim Crew Chief in 10 races, guiding Gray to three top-five finishes. As lead engineer in 2024, the 29-year-old played a key role in Gray’s first-career playoff berth while achieving eight top-fives, 14 top-10s, and a sixth-place finish in the final series standings.

A complete list of races for each driver is below.

Brent Crews: North Wilkesboro, Lime Rock, IRP, Richmond, Bristol II, New Hampshire, Charlotte ROVAL, Martinsville II, Phoenix

Brandon Jones: Homestead-Miami, Bristol I, Rockingham, Texas, Kansas, Charlotte, Pocono

William Sawalich: Daytona, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Nashville, Watkins Glen

Lawless Alan: Martinsville I, Michigan, Darlington, Talladega

About TRICON Garage

TRICON Garage is a professional racing organization fielding five full-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series entries. Serving as the flagship Truck Series partner of Toyota Racing Development, the team plays an integral role in the NASCAR development ladder. Headquartered in Mooresville, North Carolina, TRICON has quickly established itself as the premier home for cultivating the next generation of motorsports industry professionals. Actively involved in three different industries – racing, fabrication and transportation, the team operates out of three buildings totaling 60,000 square feet.

Niece Motorsports Drivers & Partners Team Up for International 500 Snowmobile Race

By
Official Release
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NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Drivers to Attend 56th Annual I-500

Salisbury, NC / Sault Ste. Marie, MI (Jan. 6, 2025) – Two weeks before the start of the NASCAR season, Niece Motorsports will trade its traditional set of four tires for skis and chains as it joins the International 500 snowmobile race in collaboration with several of its primary partners.

Located in Michigan’s upper peninsula in the town of Sault Ste. Marie, the International 500 (I-500) is a race like no other. Since its inception in 1969, and in the decades that have followed, the event has captured a sizable following, thanks to its unique format.

Teams of riders work in shifts to complete the 500-mile distance all while battling subfreezing temperatures on grueling terrain. Specialized snowmobiles, capable of withstanding speeds of over 120 MPH, race handle-to-handle for several hours in a true competition of endurance.

The historic race is held on the only one-mile ice oval track in North America, attracting teams, fans, and media alike from the United States and Canada.

This year, Niece Motorsports and Precision Vehicle Logistics have partnered with the Hoos Racing team which fields the No. 67 Polaris for riders Jordan Carlson and LJ Quick. Hoos Racing has competed in the event for over 25 years, most notably winning the race in 2004.

NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series drivers Kaden Honeycutt and Bayley Currey will be in attendance for the event and will interact with fans through autograph sessions prior to the start of the race.

From asphalt, to dirt, and now to snow, as part of a crossover between the various motorsports disciplines, Niece Motorsports’ No. 4 Dirt Late Model will pace the field of riders with the vehicle specially outfitted with studded tires, fit to make exhibition laps around the ice track.

Primary partners, Precision Vehicle Logistics, DQS Solutions & Staffing, Masked Owl Technologies, Wheeler Trucking, and Owosso Speedway – all companies based in the state of Michigan – look forward to supporting the event for the first time in conjunction with the race team.

“We are more than enthused to be a part of this unique and exciting event,” said Jason Wilson, VP of Precision Vehicle Logistics. “Being a part of the I-500, being held in the great state of Michigan, falls in line with what we are trying to accomplish within our relationship with Niece Motorsports. Jumping on board, and being a part of this event, with our other Michigan based partners reflects the representation, and love of motorsports that flows out of the state of Michigan, home of the Big Three (Detroit Three). Racing is a part of this states DNA, and we want to do what we can to highlight that alongside of Niece Motorsports, and our partners at DQS, MOT, Owosso Speedway and Wheeler Trucking.”

“I would like to thank Ric Federau for extending the invite to Niece, Precision, and all of our partners,” Wilson continued. “I would also like to thank Rex Wheeler, for letting us be a part of his title sponsored event there in Sault Ste. Marie, and we look forward to seeing our friends from North Carolina brave the elements in the month of January/February.”
Ric Federau, Chairman of the I-500, promotes the event as a chance to bridge the seasonal gap allowing race fans the opportunity to enjoy the thrills and excitement racing provides throughout the traditional offseason.

“Racing doesn’t stop when the leaves fall,” said Federau. “The I-500 is the NASCAR of snowmobile oval ice endurance racing. Every bit of ‘high octane’ excitement generated watching competitive racing within any motorsports racing arena will be experienced when watching the I-500 snowmobile race. Our objective is to build a year-round professional racing platform that provides fans with memories of competitive racing second-to-none creating memories that last a lifetime. It’s all left turns from here.”

The 56th running of the International 500 will take place the week of January 26th, leading up to the main event taking the green flag at 10:00 AM ET on February 1st. FloRacing will broadcast live coverage of the race in its entirety.

Visit niecemotorsports.com for all the latest news.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is owned by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2025, Niece Motorsports enters its tenth season in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Niece also owns Niece Equipment, which has for over 40 years provided clients with reliable products at competitive prices. Niece Equipment’s reputation is built on service, integrity and dependability. The company provides water and fuel/lube trucks that are engineered with quality and durability in mind for the construction and mining industry. Follow the team on Facebook and Instagram @NieceMotorsports as well as X @NieceMotorsport.

TRICON Garage reveals No. 1 Toyota drivers for 2025 Truck season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

TRICON Garage revealed its driver lineup for the organization’s No. 1 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro entry, dubbed the “all-star” entry, that will be fielded for the entire 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series schedule.

The competitors who will split the driving duties of TRICON’s No. 1 entry for the upcoming season are Lawless Alan, Brent Crews, Brandon Jones and William Sawalich.

Sawalich, the reigning two-time ARCA Menards Series East champion from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, will first pilot the entry for the first three-scheduled events that include Daytona International Speedway (February 14), Atlanta Motor Speedway (February 22) and Las Vegas Motor Speedway (March 14). He will then return to compete at Nashville Superspeedway (May 30) before making his fifth and final scheduled start of the year at Watkins Glen International (August 8).

Sawalich, who is also set to campaign in his first full-time Xfinity Series season with Joe Gibbs Racing, is no stranger to TRICON as he has made a total of 16 Truck starts with the organization over the previous two seasons. Throughout his previous 16 Truck starts, he notched his first career pole at Talladega Superspeedway this past October and has finished in the top 10 three times.

Next, Jones, a 27-year-old racing veteran from Atlanta, Georgia, will make his first Truck start of the season at Homestead-Miami Speedway (March 21) before he proceeds to compete at the spring Bristol Motor Speedway event (April 11), Rockingham Speedway (April 18), Texas Motor Speedway (May 2), Kansas Speedway (May 10), Charlotte Motor Speedway (May 23) and at Pocono Raceway (June 20).

While he is new to the TRICON organization, Jones is no stranger to the Truck Series division as he has made a total of 49 career starts over eight part-time seasons (2013-20). Within the span, he scored his first career victory at Pocono while driving for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2020. He has also registered five runner-up results, 14 top-five results, 24 top-10 results, 85 laps led and an average-finishing result of 13.1 as he strives to add more Truck victories to his resume. Aside from his part-time Truck campaign, Jones is set to reunite with Joe Gibbs Racing for a full-time Xfinity campaign after spending the previous two seasons at JR Motorsports.

Alan, a 24-year-old native from Van Nuys, California, will make his first Truck start of the 2025 season at the spring Martinsville Speedway event (March 28) before he returns to race at Michigan International Speedway (June 7), Darlington Raceway (August 30) and at Talladega Superspeedway (October 17).

Alan’s part-time Truck campaign with TRICON comes hours after he was announced to be scaling back down to the ARCA Menards Series and contending for the 2025 series’ title with Venturini Motorsports. Previously, the Californian, who claimed the 2018 NASCAR Home Tracks championship at Irwindale Speedway, spent the previous three seasons as a full-time Truck competitor for Niece Motorsports (2022-23) and Reaume Brothers Racing. This past season, he recorded his first top-five career finish in the series after finishing fifth at Talladega.

Lastly, Crews, a 16-year-old racing prospect from Hickory, North Carolina, will campaign in his first nine Truck Series career events that commence at North Wilkesboro Speedway (May 17) before he returns for the series’ inaugural event at Lime Rock Park, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park (July 25), Richmond Raceway (August 15), the fall Bristol Motor Speedway event (September 11), New Hampshire Motor Speedway (September 20), the series’ inaugural event at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course (October 3), the fall Martinsville Speedway event (October 24) and the season-finale event at Phoenix Raceway (October 31).

Crews, who is also a Toyota Driver Development competitor, is coming off a productive 2024 season, where he claimed the World Series of Asphalt Super Late Model and CARS Late Model Stock Car Tour Rookie-of-the-Year championships. Over the previous two seasons, he earned his first two ARCA Menards Series career victories while driving for Venturini Motorsports. To date, Crews is the youngest Trans-Am Series champion at age 15 years, seven months and three days, and the youngest Trans-Am winner at age 14 years, three months and six days.

As announced in mid-December, the No. 1 Toyota team will be led by crew chief Jake Hampton, who was atop the pit box for returning full-time TRICON competitor Tanner Gray for a single event in 2021 and for Tanner’s younger brother, Taylor, for 10 events in 2023. Each of TRICON’s “all-star” competitors (Alan, Crews, Jones and Sawalich) will compete alongside the organization’s full-time competitors which include Tanner Gray, Corey Heim and rookies Toni Breidinger and Gio Ruggiero.

With the No. 1 Toyota entry’s driver lineup set, which completes its full driver lineup, TRICON Garage’s 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season is scheduled to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 14. The event’s broadcast time is scheduled to commence at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

Lawless Alan joins Venturini Motorsports for 2025 ARCA season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Kirk Schroll for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Lawless Alan will join Venturini Motorsports forces and contend for the ARCA Menards Series championship in 2025.

Alan, a 24-year-old native of Van Nuys, California, will be piloting the No. 20 Toyota Camry entry on a full-time basis with continuous sponsorship support from AUTOparkit.

The news comes as Alan is coming off his third consecutive full-time campaign in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series division, where he achieved his first top-five career result by finishing fifth at Talladega Superspeedway this past October. In addition, he recorded a total of six top-20 results and an average-finishing result of 24.2 before he settled in 24th place in the final standings, all while competing with Reaume Brothers Racing.

“Super excited to make this announcement with Venturini Motorsports,” Alan said in a released statement. “This is a great opportunity to be in topflight equipment each week and have the reassurance of the team and amazing manufacturer like Toyota behind me. I can’t thank everyone enough for making this deal happen, especially the ongoing support from AUTOparkit, they make this happen. It feels good to have this type of confidence going into the season. Knowing Venturini has the resources allows me to be more aggressive with my mindset. I fully expect to compete each week for wins. I think once I see my name at the top of the speed charts, I know we’ll be ready for business.”

Alan, who grew up racing in Legends cars and Late Models, captured the NASCAR Home Tracks championship at Irwindale Raceway and the Winter Showdown at Kern County Raceway in 2018. He elevated his racing career to the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli the following season and campaigned across the ARCA Menards Series divisions, between the 2019 and 2020 seasons.

In 2021, Alan made his Truck Series debut at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course with Reaume Brothers Racing, where he finished 36th. He made four additional starts with the Reaume Brothers organization before he campaigned in four of the final six Truck events with Niece Motorsports.

The following season, Alan drove Niece’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST entry for his first full-time campaign in the Truck Series. Throughout the season, he recorded eight top-20 results, a season-best 11th-place run at Circuit of the Americas and an average-finishing result of 24.2 before settling in 22nd place in the standings. He would finish 22nd in the final standings for a second consecutive time during the following season, but he accumulated 23 additional points at 317 overall as he notched a career-best average-finishing result of 22.3 and notched his first top-10 career result at Talladega.

Throughout the 2024 season, Alan also competed in six ARCA starts with Reaume Brothers, where he recorded four top-nine results and a season-best fifth place at the Milwaukee Mile in late August.

Alan is the second confirmed competitor full-time driver for Venturini Motorsports in the upcoming ARCA Menards Series season. He will be a teammate to Isabella Robusto, who was announced as the driver of the team’s No. 55 Toyota entry in mid-December. In addition, Chase Pinsonneault, the 2024 CRA JEGS All-Stars Tour Rookie-of-the-Year recipient, will drive Venturini’s No. 15 Toyota entry for the 2025 season-opening event at Daytona International Speedway in mid-December.

With his plans for this upcoming season set, Lawless Alan’s bid for the 2025 ARCA Menards Series championship with Venturini Motorsports will commence at Daytona on February 15 at noon ET on FOX.

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