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Max Taylor Sets Pace To Lead Andretti 1-2-3 in Opening St. Pete Practice

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Friday, Feb. 27, 2026) – Max Taylor backed up his preseason performance in the first practice session of the 2026 INDY NXT by Firestone season Friday at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, leading a 1-2-3 sweep for Andretti Global.

Connecticut native Taylor, entering his first full season in the INDYCAR development series, topped the 45-minute session with a best lap of 1 minute, 5.0852 seconds in the No. 28 Susan G. Komen entry fielded by Andretti Global. That’s the same machine that Dennis Hauger drove to the INDY NXT championship last season before a promotion to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season this year.

Taylor, who made six INDY NXT starts in 2025 amid a full-time effort in USF Pro 2000, led the INDY NXT Group Test last November at Barber Motorsports Park, was second fastest at the Chris Griffis Memorial Test in October on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course and ranked in the top two in all four sessions at a group test last month at Sebring International Raceway.

“A good first session,” Taylor said. “Always loved driving around this place. Missed it. It was a really good session working with team, developing the setup, fixing my driving, as well. A really good start to the weekend, and I’m excited to keep on attacking it.”

Series veteran and Andretti newcomer Josh Pierson was a distant second behind Taylor with a best lap of 1:05.5358 in the No. 29 Starchive Andretti entry. Second-year INDY NXT driver Seb Murray completed Andretti Global’s sweep of the top three spots with his best time of 1:05.5368 in the No. 27 Prosperity entry.

Myles Rowe was fourth at 1:05.5845 in the No. 99 Abel Motorsports with Force Indy car. Series rookie Enzo Fittipaldi, the grandson of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Emerson Fittipaldi, rounded out the top five at 1:05.7017 in the No. 67 HMD Motorsports entry.

The session was slowed by two red flags.

Rookie Jack Beeton backed into the wall in Turn 10 in the No. 45 HMD Motorsports about 15 minutes into the session. The rear of the car was damaged, but Beeton was able to drive to the pits for repairs.

About 20 minutes later, Lochie Hughes nosed into the barrier in Turn 7 in the No. 26 Andretti Global entry. Hughes, the top returning driver this season in the series, drove to the pits without a front wing for a replacement.

Up next is another practice at 8:35 a.m. ET Saturday, followed by qualifying at 3:45 p.m. ET. FS1 will televise practice live, with qualifying on FS2. FOX One, the FOX Sports app and INDYCAR Radio, powered by OnlyBulls also will provide live coverage of both sessions.

The 45-lap race starts at 10 a.m. ET Sunday.

SETH WADLEY AUTO GROUP JOINS ELITE MOTORSPORTS

WYNNEWOOD, Okla. (Feb. 27, 2026) – Elite Motorsports is proud to announce Seth Wadley Auto Family, Oklahoma’s premier stop for a diverse selection of new and used vehicles, as a new partner heading into the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season.

As part of this relationship, Seth Wadley Auto Family, which operates 9 dealership locations across Oklahoma, has outfitted Elite Motorsports with the Ford Super Duty F-350 Dually that will haul The Official Line – the Tony Stewart Racing / Elite Motorsports merchandise trailer, to all 20 NHRA national events. The team is also equipped with a Dodge Durango GT Blacktop AWD HEMI V8 supported through Seth Wadley Auto Family, to serve as the tow vehicle for the R+L Carriers Top Fuel dragster driven by Tony Stewart.

Adding to the partnership’s strength, Royce Lee Freeman, brother of Elite Motorsports President Richard Freeman, will serve as the on‑site liaison for Seth Wadley Auto Family at NHRA events, supporting partner relations, customer engagement, and trackside coordination throughout the season.

“I’ve been a customer at Seth Wadley Auto Group for a lot of years now. I won’t shop for a vehicle anywhere else. Their customer service is top-of-the-line and I know it’s not just for me but for anyone who steps into one of their dealerships or searches online. Anytime I have someone, my family, an employee, a partner, and they come to me asking where they should car shop, the answer is always Seth Wadley Auto Family,” said Richard Freeman, President of Elite Motorsports. “I’m excited to show Seth and his company the opportunities that NHRA presents for them to make connections and ultimately make sales. My brother, Royce, he’ll be a big part of helping to make that happen. He’s a sales guy through and through and he’s been around Seth as long as I have. We know their business and we know we can help to keep it growing.”

“We’re excited to have an official partnership with Richard and the Elite Motorsports team. We’ve been friends of Richard’s and done business with him for a lot of years. Jumping on board as they expand into yet another class of drag racing just feels natural. Their needs are growing, their contacts are growing and if we can be part of helping fulfill Elite and the rest of the team’s partners transportation needs, we’re going to do it,” said Seth Wadley. “Having Royce Lee, someone who knows sales, knows our business and knows Elite inside and out, as our point person at the track every weekend is going to be a game changer. Having him answer questions for potential customers, entertain guests in hospitality and help bridge the gap between the track and the showroom is going to be key. We’re excited to see what this year brings.”

The 2026 Mission Food NHRA Drag Racing Series season, the 75th Anniversary for the NHRA, begins March 6-8 with the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway in Florida.

The Seth Wadley Auto Family services central Oklahoma and the greater Oklahoma City metro, with dealerships in Pauls Valley, Ada, Perry and Purcell. For more information, go to SethWadley.com.

HOOSIER RACING TIRE NAMED PRESENTING SPONSOR OF NHRA SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT SERIES AS PROGRAM EXPANDS IN 2026

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 27, 2026) – NHRA announced today that Hoosier Racing Tire has been named the presenting sponsor of the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Series, the world’s largest motorsports program when it comes to racer participation, as part of an impressive expansion for the 2026 season.

The popular program, which has been expanded by 50 percent, will now include 12 E.T. Finals in 2026 across the United States and Canada, as well as an increase to 16 racers in each category and doubling the number of racers who will be competing at the world championship in Las Vegas.

It shows the notable growth in the NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier over the past several seasons. In 2024, an Eastern Canada E.T. Finals took place for the first time, while last year, winners in the Eastern Canada Division advanced to compete for a world championship in Las Vegas. Now, four additional E.T. Finals have been added, including new events in Northern Mississippi (Holly Springs), Western Kansas (SRCA Dragstrip), Northern California (Redding Motorsports Park) and Western Canada (RAD Torque Raceway).

NHRA will also create a $30,000 Hoosier Prize Pool, which will be shared among the E.T. Finals winners and national champions who use Hoosier Tire.

“Becoming the presenting partner of the NHRA Summit E.T. Series is a natural fit for Hoosier,” said Paul Menting, VP of Sales, Hoosier Racing Tire. “The series represents the passion, dedication, and competitive spirit that define grassroots drag racing. We’re excited to deepen our partnership with the NHRA and continue supporting the racers and tracks that drive the future of our sport.”

The expansion gives racers a better opportunity to compete close to home and advance to the NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier World Championship, which takes place Oct. 29-Nov. 1 as part of the NHRA Las Vegas Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Drivers in Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman and Motorcycle will compete at NHRA member tracks across North America during the 2026 season. The four class champions from the 12 E.T. Finals events, along with wild card entries from Divisions 1, 2, 3 and 4, will earn their spot to compete for a world championship in Las Vegas.

Summit Racing Equipment, an industry leader in the distribution of auto racing parts and equipment through catalogs and the Internet, remains a massive supporter of the program with a partnership that spans nearly 25 years.

“With the expansion of the NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier to 12 E.T. finals, it’s super exciting to see thriving series continue to grow,” said Jim Greenleaf, Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports & Events Manager. “There are so many great opportunities for racers to compete across North America and Summit Racing Equipment is thrilled to continue this partnership.

“These competitors are so talented and this series provides such a deserved spotlight for them. We look forward to working with Hoosier Racing Tire on this program and we can’t wait for an incredible year in 2026.”

On the “Road to Vegas,” tens of thousands of drivers will compete for event wins. The 12 E.T. Finals winners receive an impressive prize package, including a Wally trophy, jacket, and purse, along with bonus travel money for all 64 qualifiers to attend the world championship in Las Vegas.

At the national event, each championship contender can enjoy a memorable experience that includes a welcome dinner, an introduction during pre-race ceremonies at the NHRA national event and a huge spotlight all weekend as they compete for a world championship in front of a huge Las Vegas crowd.

“This is a landmark moment for bracket racers in the NHRA,” NHRA Sportsman Manager Jason Galvin said. “Thank you to Jim Greenleaf and everyone at Summit Racing Equipment for being open to expansion and pushing for new opportunities, and to the entire Hoosier team for jumping at the opportunity to provide more racing across the country for the true heartbeat of this sport, bracket racers. The NHRA cannot wait to show off this expanded program and to celebrate the 64 racers who will qualify for the finals in Las Vegas. They are in for the experience of a lifetime on the grandest stage.”

National champions in 2025 included Matt Witkowski (Division 1) in Super Pro, Michael Fornwalt (Division 1) in Pro, Gage Wilson (Division 4) in Sportsman and Michael Schamlle (Division 3) in Motorcycle.

For more information on the NHRA Summit Racing Series, visit www.nhra.com/sportsman. For more information on NHRA, including the 2026 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.

2026 NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier E.T. Finals Schedule

Division 1 Canada – Toronto Motorsports Park, Cayuga, ON, Aug. 28-30
Division 1 – Lebanon Valley Dragway, West Lebanon, N.Y., Aug. 28-30
Division 2 – Carolina Dragway, Aiken, S.C., Oct. 2-4
Division 3 – Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio, Sept. 11-13
Division 4 East – Holly Springs, Holly Springs, Miss., Sept. 25-27
Division 4 West – Texas Motorplex, Dallas, Sept. 11-13
Division 5 East – Tri-State Raceway, Earlville, Iowa, Sept. 17-20
Division 5 West – SRCA Dragstrip, Great Bend, Kan., Sept. 24-27
Division 6 Canada – RAD Torque Raceway, Edmonton, AB, Aug. 29-Aug. 30
Division 6 – Qlispé Raceway Park, Airway Heights, Wash., Sept. 4-6
Division 7 South – The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Oct. 9-11
Division 7 North – Redding Motorsports Park, Redding, Calif., Oct. 2-4

NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier World Championship

The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Oct. 29-Nov. 1
(as part of the NHRA Las Vegas Nationals)


About Hoosier Racing Tire

Hoosier Racing Tire, the largest race tire manufacturer in the world, has continually promoted passion, pride, and success in the racing industry since 1957. Based in Plymouth, Ind. its state-of-the-art facility, including a fully integrated technology and R&D center, is solely dedicated to engineering, designing, supporting, and manufacturing the over 1,000 different types of racing and high-performance tires currently produced. Instilled with the heritage of champions, Hoosier utilizes a model sales and distribution network to deliver winning results globally. Hoosier Racing Tire is a 100% subsidiary of Continental AG.

About Summit Racing Equipment

Summit Racing Equipment has been the World’s Speed Shop® for over 50 years! Summit Racing is the world’s largest e-commerce, mail order, and retailer of performance automotive parts and accessories. Summit Racing offers a huge selection of parts in stock from over 1,500 manufacturers for all forms of racing, street performance, off-roading, restoration, tools, and yes, diesel. It also offers fast ground service shipping to most areas of the country and same-day shipping on in-stock items. Summit Racing has the industry’s top-rated customer service and a full-time technical department to answer your questions. With headquarters in Tallmadge, Ohio, Summit operates distribution and retail stores in Tallmadge, Sparks, NV, McDonough, GA, and Arlington, TX.

Summit Racing Equipment
www.summitracing.com
1-800-230-3030

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Shell Starship Returns to NTT INDYCAR SERIES for 2026 Season

Energy-Efficient Class 8 Natural Gas Truck To Transport INDYCAR Administrative Trailer

INDIANAPOLIS (Friday, Feb. 27, 2026) – Shell and INDYCAR announced Feb. 27 that Shell Starship will return to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES transportation fleet for the 2026 season, continuing its role as a visible demonstration of advanced, lower-emissions freight technology operating in a motorsports series.

Shell Starship, powered by a Cummins X15NTM natural gas engine and lubricated with Shell Rotella® natural gas engine oil, will be the transport vehicle for the INDYCAR Administrative Trailer, traveling to nearly every race on the 2026 calendar.

“Shell Starship is more than a concept; it’s a working demonstration of what’s possible when advanced vehicle design, efficient powertrains and renewable fuels come together,” said Thomas Mueller, general manager of Commercial Road Transport at Shell. “Returning to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2026 allows us to continue learning in real-world conditions while supporting a partner that shares our ambition to advance more sustainable mobility solutions.”

The return builds on a successful debut season in 2025, when Shell Starship joined the series following the Indianapolis 500 and became the first natural gas-powered Class 8 truck to operate within a national racing series fleet in North America. For the 2026 season, the anticipated plans for Starship are to increase the use of renewable natural gas (RNG) compared to the 2025 season.

“INDYCAR is continuously evaluating ways to grow on and off the track – including how we move people and equipment,” INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles said. “The Shell Starship program helps us assess advanced vehicle technologies and renewable fuel solutions in a meaningful way and support our sustainability goals, demonstrating solutions that can scale beyond racing. Judging by how many times Shell Starship is photographed in the paddock, it is clear our fans enjoy the program, as well.”

In addition to its logistics role, Shell Starship will have multiple marquee moments throughout the 2026 season, including:

  • Leading the truck parade at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington
  • Participating in the 500 Festival Parade ahead of the Indianapolis 500
  • A feature in INDYCAR video game titles for console and PC, produced by iRacing Studios

Shell Starship’s return builds on the broader collaboration between Shell and INDYCAR, including Shell’s role as Official Fuel of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the introduction of 100% renewable race fuel in 2023. By returning to INDYCAR in 2026, Shell Starship continues to demonstrate how advanced vehicle design, efficient powertrains and renewable fuels can support lower-carbon, real-world logistics, on race weekends and beyond.

For more information about Shell Starship and Shell’s work in transport decarbonization, visit shell.com/starship.

FOX Sports’ Clint Bowyer To Take Ride of Lifetime in Fastest Seat at Phoenix

INDIANAPOLIS (Friday, Feb. 27, 2026) – NASCAR champion and FOX NASCAR analyst Clint Bowyer will climb back into a race car for a thrill ride in the Fastest Seat in Sports at the Good Ranchers 250 on Saturday, March 7 at Phoenix Raceway.

Bowyer will ride in the custom INDYCAR SERIES car with a special back passenger seat, leading the field to green for the first NTT INDYCAR SERIES race at the 1-mile desert oval since 2018. The 250-lap race is part of a special NASCAR-INDYCAR doubleheader that weekend at Phoenix Raceway, as the Straight Talk Wireless 500 for the NASCAR Cup Series takes place Sunday, March 8 at the track. Bowyer will serve as an analyst for FOX Sports’ coverage of that NASCAR race.

Kansas native Bowyer joined FOX’s NASCAR coverage full time in 2021 as an analyst after a driving career that saw him win 10 Cup Series races and the 2008 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series championship. He drove for such prominent NASCAR teams as Richard Childress Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing and Stewart-Haas Racing.

Bowyer joins a long list of celebrated INDYCAR Fastest Seat in Sports passengers as he leads the field to green in a custom INDYCAR SERIES car with a special back passenger seat. This high-speed, high-octane, super-charged thrill ride has been taken by the likes of Tom Brady, Simu Liu, Jon Bon Jovi, Lady Gaga, Channing Tatum and Alex Rodriguez.

Coverage of the Good Ranchers 250 begins at 3 p.m. ET on FOX, FOX One and the INDYCAR Radio Network.

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is North America’s premier open-wheel racing series, with drivers competing at speeds of 200+ mph across a thrilling and demanding set of ovals and road and street circuits. More information is available on INDYCAR.com.

RCR Race Preview: Circuit of The Americas

Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series at Circuit of The Americas… Richard Childress Racing has ten NASCAR Cup Series starts at Circuit of The Americas, earning three top-five and six-top 10 finishes. Kyle Busch holds the organization’s best result of second (2023). Additionally, Tyler Reddick holds RCR’s only pole position at the Austin, Texas road course during the track’s inaugural Cup Series race in 2021. This is the second time that NASCAR will utilize the “National Course” layout, which features a 2.3-mile course and 20 turns.

Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Circuit of The Americas… Richard Childress Racing has nine starts in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, owning a pair of second-place finishes by Austin Hill (2022, 2024). The Welcome, N.C., team has collected three top-five and seven top-10 finishes.

Catch Saturday’s Action… The Focused Health 250 at Circuit of The Americas will be televised live on Saturday, February 28 at 3 p.m. ET on The CW. The live radio broadcast can be heard on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. Friday afternoon’s practice and qualifying sessions will be shown for free on The CW App beginning at 5 p.m. ET.

Catch Us on FOX… The DuraMAX Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas will be televised on Sunday, March 1 at 3 p.m. ET on FOX. The live radio broadcast can be heard on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. Saturday morning’s practice and qualifying sessions will be shown live on Prime Video beginning at 10 a.m. ET. Ride shotgun all season long with live, in-car camera feeds and scanner audio with a paid subscription to Max as part of their NASCAR driver cam experience during the race.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Chevrolet at Circuit of The Americas… Austin Dillon has made five NASCAR Cup Series starts at Circuit of The Americas, posting a best finish of 10th in 2022.

Turning Left, and Right… Although Dillon did not grow up competing on road courses, the North Carolina native has gained experience at the discipline as the number of road courses on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule have steadily increased over his career. Dillon heads into this weekend with 42 road course starts to his credit and countless laps made on the simulator. The veteran driver had a strong race going at Circuit of The Americas last year when the No. 11 car slid into him near the end of the race, causing Dillon to get stuck in the gravel and ending the No. 3 team’s race early.

Pickle Baller… Dillon picked up the sport of pickleball as a hobby during the COVID-19 pandemic and has developed into a serious pickleball player over the past several years. He relies on the sport as a low-impact way to keep in shape and work on hand-eye coordination, an important skill for a professional racecar driver. With Austin, Texas being a hotbed for professional pickleball players, Dillon plans to spend a significant portion of his time in ATX playing pickleball when he’s not at the track.

Surprise and Delight… Dillon has several surprises planned for race fans at COTA this weekend. Hint: You never know who you will find scanning your ticket into the race on Saturday afternoon or riding the tram around the outskirts of the track on Sunday morning. Follow @austindillon3 on Instagram to see where the driver will pop up this weekend.

BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Teams Up with Dillon… Dillon and the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing team will be supported by BREZTRI AEROSPHERE®, an AstraZeneca product, at Circuit of The Americas. This partnership is about more than just racing. You can learn more about Dillon and his family’s personal connection to the brand at Breztri.com. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and Biopharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.

Meet Dillon… On Sunday, March 1 at 10:20 a.m. Local Time, Dillon is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Hauler located in the Grand Plaza at Circuit of The Americas. Stop by to meet Dillon and purchase new No. 3 gear.

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:

What are your thoughts on racing at Circuit of The Americas?

“Racing in Austin, Texas is fun. It’s an exciting and technically challenging road course with lot of havoc created in Turn One. I feel like the key to having a good race will be having solid pit stops and keeping our Breztri Chevrolet clean.”

How tough is it to gain momentum at the start of the season?

“To get going in the first part of the season is tough. You want a fast start for your team and partners, and we didn’t get that the last two weeks with the wrecks. We need to come out of this weekend with a good finish, just to feel confident that we can get back into the swing of things with points. With two drafting tracks and a road course, the meat of the schedule starts in Phoenix. That’s where you feel like more is in your control. There is a lot in your control at road courses as well, and we have put a lot of effort into COTA. I feel like our Breztri Chevrolet should be able to go out there and compete.”

Kyle Busch and the No. 8 Rebel Bourbon Root Beer Whiskey Chevrolet at Circuit of The Americas… Sunday’s 95-lap race at Circuit of The Americas will mark Kyle Busch’s sixth career NASCAR Cup Series start at the Austin, Texas road course. Busch has two top-five and four top-10’s in his previous starts in the Cup Series. Last year’s race saw the Las Vegas native finish top-five in both stages, led a race-high 42 laps and remain in contention for the win before ultimately finishing in fifth place. In his three starts at Circuit of The Americas under the RCR banner, Busch has two top-fives and three top-10 finishes with an average finish of 5.3.

Road Course Prowess… Busch has 61 career road course starts at NASCAR’s highest level and has racked up four wins (two at Sonoma Raceway and two at Watkins Glen International), 20 top-five and 31 top-10 finishes. The veteran racer has additionally earned two poles and led a total of 472 laps.

Previous Winner… In his lone NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at Circuit of The Americas, Busch started from the pole and led 35 of 46 laps, en route to securing the victory.

Did You Know? Last weekend at EchoPark Speedway, Kyle Busch etched his name in the record books, surpassing Kevin Harvick for the most starts by a driver across NASCAR’s top three national series with 1,300 starts.

Shoot The Root… Rebel Bourbon has announced the return of fan-favorite Rebel Root Beer Whiskey to its award-winning Rebel Bourbon lineup, set to prominently be featured on the No. 8 Chevrolet this weekend at Circuit of The Americas. An unconventional twist on Rebel’s time-honored wheated recipe, Rebel Root Beer features Rebel Straight Bourbon Whiskey infused with the bold and creamy flavor of root beer. The Rebel team went through 25 samples of root beer extract to capture the spicy, sharp taste of the root beer barrel candies enjoyed by many. Rebel Root Beer is bottled at 70 proof (35% ABV) and available nationwide this month. Rebel Root Beer features aromas of classic sassafras and vanilla coupled with aged bourbon whiskey. Its taste profile includes classic sharp root beer flavors of sassafras, vanilla, licorice and molasses plus bourbon whiskey and caramel and honey notes, and a lingering sweetness and spicy sassafras finish.

KB108 Gets A New Release… Rebel Bourbon fans have a new reason to get rowdy this season. Earlier this month the official bourbon of Richard Childress Racing announced the release of Rebel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Selected By Kyle Busch. With guidance from Rebel Bourbon Master Distiller John Rempe, Busch hand-picked every barrel for this limited-edition release, which is bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV) in honor of Rebel’s RCR sponsorship.

Getting Rowdy with Rebel… Fans will have several chances to get up-close and personal with the No. 8 Rebel Bourbon Chevrolet and Busch prior to the green flag waving at Circuit of The Americas. The No. 8 Rebel Bourbon Chevrolet will make several stops throughout the greater Austin area from February 25-February 28. Busch is scheduled to sign bottles of Rebel Bourbon at Specs 224 (1500 W 35th St, Austin, Texas 78703) at 5 p.m. CT on Friday, February 27.

About Rebel Bourbon… Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe, Rebel Bourbon features a wheated mash bill true to its original recipe dating back to 1849, when it was invented at the Stitzel-Weller distillery. Our defiantly smooth premium wheated bourbon celebrates those who embrace bold originality and a rebellious spirit. Our products have earned top spirits industry honors including Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year for Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel also won a double platinum medal at the 2025 ASCOT Awards, a double gold medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a double gold medal and Consumer’s Choice Award at the 2025 SIP Awards. To learn more, visit RebelBourbon.com and follow @rebelbourbon on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

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 with a mission to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Luxco operates as MGP Ingredients Inc. (Nasdaq: MGPI) Branded Spirits division since its acquisition in 2021. The company’s extensive and award-winning premium portfolio includes brands from four distilleries: Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Penelope and Remus bourbon are produced; Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Rebel, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath bourbons; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Bourbon; and Arandas, Mexico-based Destiladora Gonzalez Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas including Cortada, El Mayor, Escasa and Exotico. For more information, visit Luxco.com.

Meet Busch… On Sunday, March 1 at 11:35 a.m. Local Time, Busch is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Hauler located in the Grand Plaza at Circuit of The Americas. Stop by to meet Busch and purchase new No. 8 gear.

KYLE BUSCH QUOTES:

How excited are you coming back to Circuit of The Americas after last season’s performance?

“Looking forward to COTA, I always love going there. We really had a good car last year at COTA. We were on the right side of strategy and coming to pit road when we did. We had a four second gap to the next guy behind us for the last couple laps of the race, and I don’t think they would have caught us. Unfortunately, a yellow came out and I had to try to race it out through a couple of restarts. Our two lap older tires were just enough that Christopher Bell was able to get us, so we gracefully faded to fifth.”

How big of a factor do you expect tire falloff and strategy to be this weekend?

“I think there will be a good amount of tire falloff and more than what we’ve seen in years past. Last year, we saw a good bit of tire falloff. I just mentioned how we only had two lap older tires than Christopher Bell, and he was able to outrace me at the end of the race. Tires are going to be more paramount this weekend. You might see guys, if there’s a late caution with 10 to go, that got three or four lap old tires might come, pit, and try to drive back through the field and hope that the front guys burn their stuff up. Fresher tires more times than not, especially with more horsepower you’re going to want them.”

Jesse Love and the No. 33 C4 Ultimate Energy Chevrolet at Circuit of The Americas… This weekend marks Love’s first NASCAR Cup Series start this season, and his first in a Cup car at the Austin, Texas road course. The 21-year-old has made two prior starts at Circuit of The Americas in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, where he finished sixth on both occasions.

Love in the Cup Series… Last season, Love made his debut in the Cup Series at Bristol Motor Speedway, where he qualified a career-best 19th. Love also ran Texas Motor Speedway, Kansas Speedway, Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Richmond Raceway. Love’s career-best finish came at Indianapolis Motor Speedway piloting the No. 62 Beard Motorsports entry to a 24th place finish.

Mango Fuego… Love will represent C4 Energy and its newest flavor, Mango Fuego, on his No. 33 car this weekend as part of his partnership with the brand. Mango Fuego is a bold tropical-meets-heat addition to C4’s Performance Energy line, delivering energy, focus and endurance with 200mg of caffeine.

About Nutrabolt… Nutrabolt is a fast-growing, global active health and wellness company with a portfolio of market-leading, performance-driven brands that fuel active lifestyles. Its disruptive products compete in the Functional Beverage and Active Nutrition categories under four consumer-loved brands: C4® (one of the fastest-growing energy drink brands in the U.S. and the #1 global pre-workout brand), XTEND® (America’s #1 BCAA brand), Cellucor® (an award-winning sports nutrition brand founded in 2002), and Bloom® (a leading wellness brand offering approachable, high-quality supplements and functional beverages).

For more than 20 years, Nutrabolt has been committed to serving performance athletes and fitness enthusiasts while empowering a broader global community to live active, healthy lives. Nutrabolt products are distributed in more than 125 countries and available through company-owned DTC platforms, Amazon, leading online marketplaces, and top U.S. retailers including Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, Walgreens, Kroger, H-E-B, Publix, GNC, and The Vitamin Shoppe. For more information, please visit nutrabolt.com and follow @C4Energy, @Cellucor, @Xtend, and @Bloomsupps on social media.

Meet Love… On Sunday, March 1 at 11 a.m. Local Time, Love is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Hauler located in the Grand Plaza at Circuit of The Americas. Stop by to meet Love and purchase new gear before the green flag waves.

JESSE LOVE QUOTE:

What are you looking forward to on the Cup side this weekend, and what will be key for you to have a successful race?

“On the Cup side, I’m looking forward to the challenge of it and continue to learn from racing these Cup races. I’ve learned a lot from the ones I ran last year and I’m just excited for a new challenge and learning new things and aggressively trying to adapt to the things that I learn throughout the weekend. Obviously, it’s going to be really important to do the little things right this weekend as always with the Cup stuff. For me, I just want to control the things I can control, and it would be very cool to be in position to capitalize on some crazy restarts at the end and see what kind of finish we can get out of it.”

Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet at Circuit of The Americas… Jesse Love has two career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at Circuit of The Americas with the 2025 Champion finishing sixth on both occasions. Love also competed in three endurance racing events at the Austin, Texas road course in 2023.

Did You Know? Love is one of only two drivers who have finished inside the top-10 in both O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races this season. The 21-year-old earned a seventh-place result in the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway and a fifth-place effort last week at EchoPark Speedway, totaling a 7.0 average finish.

Still Streaking… Love currently holds the longest active streak of running at the finish of races, as the Menlo Park, California native has 16 straight events without a DNF. The young gun also has the longest active top-10 streak with three, dating back to his winning performance in the final race of the 2025 campaign.

Points Check… Through two events, Love currently sits in the fourth position in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series driver championship point standings. The No. 2 driver is 24 points behind leader Austin Hill.

About Whelen Engineering… Whelen Engineering is a family-owned company with a pioneering spirit and a passion to protect the lives of those who protect and serve others. The company mission is to provide industry-defining safety solutions around the world, while creating a community of problem-solvers who are inspired to push boundaries and continue our legacy of delivering ground-breaking innovation. As a global leader in the emergency warning industry, Whelen has been trusted to perform since 1952, when George Whelen III invented the first rotating aviation beacon. Whelen now encompasses two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Connecticut and New Hampshire with over 750,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing space and the largest design staff in the industry. Every part of every Whelen product is proudly designed and manufactured in America. We embrace quality as our foundation, and we celebrate innovative engineering in every product we produce.

JESSE LOVE QUOTES:

How excited are you to be back competing against some of the top road course racers this weekend?

“I’m looking forward to racing this weekend. I’ve learned a lot from Connor (Zilisch) and Shane (van Gisbergen) over the last couple years that I hope to implement. Just to get back racing against them two is going to be a lot of fun. They’re always really good at these races, so trying to come out on top this time would be amazing and I always look forward to having the opportunity to race against those guys.”

Talk about how important these next few weeks in terms of the NOAPS points battle and what’s your mindset heading into this stretch?

“I think if we can have a good solid weekend, especially these next few weeks, we should be in a good spot to be the points leader pretty soon, so that’s one thing I’m thinking about as well. I just want to have a good solid weekend and execute and do all those things right and put ourselves in a position to win and not overthink it too much.”

Austin Hill and the No. 21 Bennett Transportation & Logistics Chevrolet at Circuit of The Americas… Austin Hill has four career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at Circuit of The Americas, posting a best finish of second twice (2022, 2024). Last season, Hill started 12th and drove his way into contention, led laps, and finished fourth. The Winston, Georgia native also has one NASCAR Truck Series start at the Austin, Texas facility, earning a ninth-place finish in 2021.

Best Average Finish… With a win in the season opener at Daytona International Speedway and a 12th-place recovery after last lap contact at EchoPark Speedway, Hill currently holds the best average finish (6.5) in the series.

Did You Know? In O’Reilly Auto Parts Series history, Hill is third all-time for the most top-five finishes (15) and fourth all-time for the most top-10 results (19) on road courses.

Chasing a Road Course W… Hill continues the search to securing his first O’Reilly Auto Parts Series road course victory – the only style of track that the veteran racer has not won at thus far into his series career. In seven road course events in 2025, Hill earned five top-five finishes. With scheduling changes, the 2026 campaign will only have four road course races – the fewest since 2020.

Top of the Standings… Through two races, Hill remains the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series driver championship points leader. The 31-year-old holds a 24-point lead over second-place Rajah Caruth.

About Bennett Family of Companies… McDonough, Ga. based Bennett Family of Companies is a woman-owned, Women’s Enterprise Business Council (WBENC) certified, diversified transportation and logistics company. Through its 14 affiliated operating companies, the Bennett Family of Companies delivers integrated transportation and supply chain management solutions worldwide. Bennett has 4,625 drivers/owner-operators, over 1,000 employees and 600 agents located across the United States. For more information, visit bennettig.com.

Meet Hill… On Saturday, February 28 at 11:30 a.m. Local Time, Hill is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Hauler located in the Grand Plaza at Circuit of The Americas. Stop by to meet Hill and purchase new No. 21 gear.

AUSTIN HILL QUOTES:

Circuit of The Americas is the first road course on the schedule this season. What is unique about the track?

“Since the configuration has changed, it’s definitely a unique racetrack. It always has been but it’s even more so now. The way that you go up the steep banking, the hill into Turn 1 is unlike any other track we go to throughout the season. You can drive it in so much deeper than anywhere else on the course. You almost have to trick your mind a little to go an extra two or three car lengths deeper because you have the banking to slow you down. There are a ton of elevation changes throughout the entire course as well, with a lot of off-camber areas where the car is falling away from the track. The esses are tough to get through. Overall, there are places to gain a lot of time and places where you can lose a lot of time if you don’t hit your marks perfectly. It’s an extremely technical racetrack.”

How important is it to you to get your first road course win in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series?

“Being able to get my first road course win would be huge and take a lot of stress off my back. If I had to pick one thing to do this year, outside of winning the championship, it would be to win on a road course. We have been so close so many times. We have been runner up, third, fourth, or fifth more times than I can count, but coming up first has eluded us for a long time now.”

Five of the finest games for motorsport fans to play in 2026

Photo by Nino Souza at pexels.com

When the NASCAR Cup Series is over, many motorsport fanatics indulge in the various motorsport games out there. From IndyCar to Formula 1, there are some entertaining titles to consider playing right now. 

Be it through a smartphone device or a mobile phone, motorsport fans are immersing themselves in top releases. These titles can be played alongside other favorites, with many players also dabbling in popular puzzle games like Candy Crush Saga and online casino slot games like Bigger Piggy Bank. Motorsport titles are also fairly diverse. For example, some games offer a realistic simulation package, while others focus on team management. 

Overall, motorsport enthusiasts certainly aren’t short of options. So, with all that in mind, below we highlight five of the finest games for the motorsport community to play in 2026. From PC products to console masterpieces, there are some truly brilliant games out there.

Forza Horizon 5

Although Forza Horizon 6 arrives in May, many players are still enjoying Forza Horizon 5. Additionally, with the new version of the game coming out soon, you can get your hands on this one for a reduced price. A great way to see if the game’s for you before investing in the latest version of it, Forza Horizon 5 is a stunning game to look at, all while players explore the beauty of Mexico while driving around in supercars. Along the way, you’ll be able to customize your vehicle, take part in epic races on a variety of surfaces, and smash through challenges to win new cars. Also offering even more to get your teeth into, Forza Horizon 5 is a great game. 

F1 Manager 2024

As we briefly mentioned, some games in this arena come with a team management aspect. That’s exactly what’s on offer in F1 Manager 2024, with players being in charge of their very own F1 team. A detailed management simulation where you have to build your own legacy and triumph on the track on a consistent basis, F1 Manager 2024 is fantastic. 

Gran Turismo 7

A long-running series of games, the latest instalment from the Gran Turismo franchise is worth looking at. Called Gran Turismo 7, it’s particularly impressive to play on a PS5 console, given the glorious visuals and truly authentic experience on offer due to the PlayStation 5’s unrivalled power. Also boasting over 500 vehicles to drive and new inclusions like dynamic weather features to mirror the testing conditions drivers contend with in the real world, Gran Turismo 7 is packed full of good stuff that all racing lovers will adore. 

MotoGP 25

If you prefer to race on two wheels, then MotoGP 25 is a title you simply have to try. Featuring an entire roster of riders, plus the bikes they own and the famous tracks they race on, this immaculate product is hard to fault. It also contains smooth graphics which provide an unrivalled bike racing package, realistic physics that the sport’s purists will admire, and so much more. If you have access to a PC, a PS5, or a Nintendo Switch, then you simply have to experience MotoGP 25. 

iRacing

iRacing

If you’re serious about your racing-related gaming marathons, then iRacing is a title you have to bring into your life. With a huge and highly competitive community behind it, this subscription-based offering is for the biggest of racing fans. Once you’ve signed up to it, this top-notch racing title provides the ultimate experience for racing purists. From the testing matchups you’ll encounter to the structured, license-based system you’ll be hoping to smash your way through, iRacing is perfect. 

From Pit Road to the Playing Field: How NASCAR’s Branding Playbook Is Changing Custom Sports Uniforms Forever

Motorsports fans get something that most of the sporting world is just now figuring out. In NASCAR, every stitch on a fire suit, every color on a paint scheme, and every logo placement on a pit crew uniform is calculated down to the millimeter. It’s not vanity — it’s strategy. And that same strategy is now driving a massive shift in how teams across baseball, basketball, football, and dozens of other sports approach their custom sports uniforms. The era of pulling generic jerseys off a rack and ironing on numbers is over. Today’s coaches, athletic directors, and league organizers want the same level of intentional branding that NASCAR teams have perfected for decades — and suppliers like HAMCO Sports are making that possible for programs at every level.

The timing makes sense. The global sports apparel market sits at roughly $220 billion in 2025, and within that massive number, the custom sportswear segment is growing at over 10 percent annually. North America accounts for nearly 40 percent of the global share, fueled by everything from youth travel ball to adult recreational leagues. Teams aren’t just buying uniforms anymore — they’re investing in identity. And if there’s one industry that understands the return on identity investment, it’s motorsports.

NASCAR Wrote the Rulebook on Uniform Branding

Think about what makes a NASCAR team instantly recognizable. It’s not just the car number or the driver’s name. It’s the complete visual package — the fire suit that matches the paint scheme, the pit crew uniforms that carry the same sponsor colors, the hauler graphics that turn heads in the paddock. Every element works together to tell a cohesive story about who that team is and who stands behind them.

This didn’t happen by accident. NASCAR teams invest serious money and creative energy into their visual identity because they understand a fundamental truth: perception drives value. When a sponsor sees their logo presented professionally on a fire suit, they feel confident in the partnership. When fans see a clean, sharp-looking team, they associate that team with competence and success. The uniform becomes a trust signal.

Now translate that principle to a high school baseball diamond, a youth basketball court, or a community football field. The same psychology applies. When a team shows up in sharp, professionally designed custom team uniforms, it changes the dynamic before the first pitch is thrown or the first whistle blows. Opponents take notice. Parents feel proud. And the athletes themselves carry a different energy when they know they look the part.

The Diamond Gets the Full Treatment: Custom Baseball Uniforms

Baseball has always had a deep connection to uniform culture. From the classic pinstripes of the Yankees to the bold color choices of modern travel ball programs, the baseball jersey carries weight. But for most youth and high school programs, the reality of getting quality custom baseball jerseys used to mean either spending a fortune with a big brand or settling for generic stock options that looked like everyone else on the tournament circuit.

Custom Baseball Uniforms

That’s changed dramatically. Specialist manufacturers now offer full sublimation printing on every baseball jersey — the same technology that embeds graphics permanently into fire suit materials in the racing world. A custom baseball jersey produced through sublimation won’t crack, peel, or fade no matter how many slides into second base it endures. The colors stay vivid. The numbers stay crisp. The uniform looks as good in the championship game as it did on opening day.

HAMCO Sports has become a go-to name for programs that want custom baseball team uniforms without the headaches. Their process mirrors the kind of attention to detail you’d expect from a racing operation: free professional mockups, unlimited design revisions, and no production until the team approves every element. The custom team uniforms baseball category covers everything from traditional full-button home whites to bold sublimated road jerseys with tackle twill lettering.

For coaches managing baseball uniforms on a real-world budget, the math works too. Most programs can outfit players in quality custom baseball jerseys for $35 to $75 per piece, depending on customization level. HAMCO requires no minimum order — meaning a single replacement custom baseball jersey for a mid-season roster addition costs the same per unit as a full team order. That kind of flexibility used to be unheard of in the baseball uniform space.

Court-Side Identity: Custom Basketball Uniforms

If baseball’s uniform tradition is rooted in heritage, basketball’s is driven by culture. A basketball jersey isn’t just what you wear to play — it’s what kids wear to school the next day. It’s what gets posted on social media after a big win. It’s a statement piece, and programs that understand this invest accordingly in their basketball jersey design.

The technology behind custom basketball uniforms has caught up to the demand. Custom sublimated basketball jerseys allow for gradients, geometric patterns, and full-panel graphics that were impossible with traditional screen printing. The design is infused directly into the performance mesh fabric — lightweight, moisture-wicking, and built to handle the constant movement and sweat of a full-court game. For programs that want basketball uniforms that still look brand new at the end of a 30-game season, sublimation is the only way to go.

HAMCO Sports offers custom basketball jerseys with the same white-glove design process they bring to every sport. Free mockups, unlimited revisions, and a design team that actually listens to what the coach wants. Whether a program is going for a clean, classic look or an aggressive modern basketball jersey design with bold graphics, the options are wide open. Sizes run from Youth XS to Adult 5XL, so a single order can fit every player on the roster without anyone being left out.

The feedback from basketball programs tells its own story. Teams have reported receiving complete uniform sets in under two weeks when their original suppliers fell through. Others have noted that the professional look of their custom basketball jerseys caught the attention of college scouts — proof that how you present yourself matters at every level, just like it does on pit road.

Why the NASCAR Approach Works for Every Sport

What makes NASCAR’s branding philosophy so effective isn’t just the quality of the uniforms — it’s the consistency. A race team doesn’t have one department handling the fire suits and another handling the pit crew gear with no communication between them. Everything is designed as a unified visual system.

Smart athletic programs are now applying this same thinking. A high school that orders custom baseball jerseys, custom basketball jerseys, and football uniforms from the same supplier — with a consistent color palette and logo treatment — creates a program-wide identity that’s instantly recognizable. It’s the same principle that makes Hendrick Motorsports look different from Joe Gibbs Racing. The distinction is engineered, not accidental.

HAMCO Sports makes this easy because they cover virtually every team sport under one roof: baseball, basketball, football, soccer, ice hockey, lacrosse, rugby, volleyball, wrestling, softball, flag football, and esports. They keep all designs on file, so reorders and additions for new seasons are seamless. For multi-sport organizations, this means one supplier, one design language, one point of contact — the kind of operational efficiency that any crew chief would appreciate.

The Technology Driving the Shift

Just as NASCAR has embraced advanced materials science — from heat-resistant Nomex in fire suits to aerodynamic fabric in pit crew uniforms — the custom sports uniform industry has undergone its own materials revolution. Modern custom jerseys feature moisture-wicking polyester that pulls sweat away from the body, reinforced stitching at every stress point, and sport-specific cuts designed for the way athletes actually move during competition.

Sublimation printing is the headline technology. Unlike screen printing or heat press — which sit on top of the fabric and eventually crack or peel — sublimation converts dye into gas that bonds permanently with polyester fibers. The result is a custom jersey where the graphics literally become part of the fabric. It’s the same principle behind the embedded graphics in motorsports gear, and it’s why a sublimated baseball jersey or basketball jersey can survive an entire season of hard use and industrial washing without losing a shade of color.

Technology Driving the Shift

HAMCO also offers tackle twill for programs that want that premium sewn-on look for player names and numbers, plus embroidery for logos and crests. Many teams combine sublimation for the body graphics with tackle twill for the lettering — getting the best of both worlds on a single uniform.

Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think

The process at HAMCO Sports is built for speed and simplicity. Teams visit hamcospo.com, fill out a quick inquiry form, and a real person — not a chatbot — responds within an hour during business hours. From there, it’s mockups, revisions, approval, and production. Standard turnaround is 2 to 3 weeks after design sign-off, with rush options for tighter timelines.

There are no hidden fees, no setup charges, and shipping is included. For clubs and organizations looking for an ongoing partnership, HAMCO offers a club registration program with dedicated account support, priority ordering, and exclusive team pricing.

In a world where NASCAR teams spend millions perfecting their visual identity, it’s remarkable that youth leagues and school programs can now access the same caliber of design thinking, materials technology, and customization for a fraction of the cost. The playing field — and the pit road — has never been more level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are custom sports uniforms and how do they differ from stock jerseys?

Custom sports uniforms are designed from scratch with your team’s specific colors, logos, names, and numbers. Unlike stock jerseys pulled off a shelf, every element is tailored to your program’s identity — similar to how a NASCAR team’s fire suits are uniquely designed for each driver and sponsor.

How long does it take to receive custom baseball jerseys or custom basketball jerseys from HAMCO?

Standard production takes 2 to 3 weeks after you approve the final design mockup. Rush options are available for teams working with tighter deadlines.

Is there a minimum order for a custom jersey from HAMCO Sports?

No. HAMCO has no strict minimum order requirement. You can order a single custom baseball jersey or a single basketball jersey, and it costs the same per unit as a full team order. Volume discounts are available for larger quantities.

What’s the difference between sublimation and screen printing on a basketball jersey or baseball jersey?

Sublimation infuses dye directly into the fabric fibers, making the design permanent — it won’t crack, peel, or fade. Screen printing sits on top of the fabric and tends to deteriorate over a season of heavy use. Sublimation is the preferred method for custom sublimated basketball jerseys and custom baseball jerseys that need to last.

Can HAMCO Sports handle uniforms for multiple sports across an entire athletic program?

Yes. HAMCO covers baseball, basketball, football, soccer, ice hockey, lacrosse, rugby, volleyball, wrestling, softball, flag football, and esports. They keep designs on file for easy reordering, making them ideal for schools and clubs that want consistent branding across every sport — the same unified approach that NASCAR teams use for their visual identity.

How Thieves Target Unsecured Trailers

Thief stealing unattended cargo trailer

Thieves can steal your unsecured trailer in less than 60 seconds by simply hitching it to their vehicle and driving away. They specifically look for trailers with minimal security measures, often targeting those parked in low-visibility areas or showing signs of extended inactivity, which signals an opportunity for theft with reduced risk of discovery.

Protecting your valuable trailer from theft might seem challenging, but understanding how criminals operate gives you a significant advantage. This guide will help you identify vulnerabilities and implement effective security measures to keep your property safe.

Typical Tactics Thieves Use

Why Most Trailer Thefts Start At The Hitch Point 

Because speed is the thief’s greatest advantage, the hitch point is almost always the first target. If a trailer can be coupled quickly, it can be stolen just as fast. This is why unsecured or lightly protected couplers are such an attractive opportunity for criminals.

Heavy-duty mechanical solutions like AMPLock’s quality semi-trailer locks directly address this vulnerability by physically blocking unauthorized hitching. When access to the coupler is completely denied, the most common “hook-and-go” theft method is eliminated.

By forcing thieves to spend more time, make noise, or use specialized tools, coupler locks turn a quick theft into a high-risk operation, something most trailer thieves actively avoid.

Exploiting Low-Visibility Areas

Trailer thieves actively seek out locations where their activities won’t attract attention. Your trailer becomes significantly more vulnerable when parked in secluded or low-traffic areas where criminal activity can proceed without witnesses.

Many property owners make the mistake of parking trailers in remote corners of their property, thinking distance from the main building provides safety. This actually creates perfect conditions for theft. Criminals prefer these spots because they can work methodically without interruption.

Contrary to what you might expect, familiar locations don’t always offer protection. Thieves often monitor areas regularly, learning patterns and identifying which trailers remain unattended for extended periods. They’ll observe your routine, noting when you’re away, giving them ample time to execute their plans.

Some thieves operate during daylight hours, wearing high-visibility clothing or driving vehicles that resemble service or delivery trucks. This disguise allows them to blend in, making their presence seem legitimate to casual observers.

Removing Identification Marks

Once thieves take possession of your trailer, they immediately focus on eliminating evidence of ownership. The vehicle identification number (VIN) serves as your trailer’s unique fingerprint, but criminals have developed various techniques to alter or completely remove these crucial identifiers.

Some use grinding tools to physically erase stamped numbers, while others apply acid to deteriorate the markings. More sophisticated criminals might attempt to restamp new numbers, creating false documentation to match these fabricated identifiers.

Registration stickers and manufacturer plates get removed quickly after theft. Without these identification markers, law enforcement faces significant challenges connecting recovered trailers to their rightful owners. This explains why maintaining detailed records of all identifying features becomes essential for recovery efforts.

The speed at which thieves can transform a trailer’s appearance compounds the problem. A stolen trailer might receive a new paint job within hours, making visual identification nearly impossible for witnesses or security cameras that captured the original theft.

Bypassing Basic Factory Latches

Standard factory latches provide minimal security against determined thieves. Most trailers come equipped with basic locking mechanisms designed primarily for keeping doors closed during transport rather than preventing theft.

Factory couplers typically feature simple latch designs that experienced thieves can manipulate in seconds. Many can disengage these mechanisms using common tools or specialized devices created specifically for defeating trailer security.

The connection point between your trailer and towing vehicle represents a particular vulnerability. Without additional security measures, criminals can quickly disconnect your trailer and attach it to their own vehicle. This process might take less than a minute for experienced thieves.

Factory locks often use universal keys or predictable key patterns, meaning criminals might already possess tools that work across multiple trailer models. Your standard lock might offer psychological comfort but provides limited physical security against someone who knows its weaknesses.

Using Simple Tools Against Trailers

Trailer thieves rarely need sophisticated equipment to accomplish their goals. Common household and hardware store items become powerful theft tools in experienced hands. Bolt cutters make quick work of chain locks, while pry bars can force open compartments and storage areas.

Sledgehammers prove effective against padlocks and hasps, allowing thieves to break securing points rather than the locks themselves. Portable power tools, particularly battery-operated angle grinders, can cut through chains, locks, and security devices in moments.

Roll-up doors on enclosed trailers present particular vulnerabilities. Thieves can force these upward with minimal effort if proper locks aren’t installed. Similarly, swing doors can be compromised by attacking the hinges rather than the locking mechanism itself.

Some criminals use specialized tools like coupler locks that appear legitimate but actually defeat security measures. These devices, sometimes called “lock picks” for trailers, allow them to manipulate factory locking systems without visible damage, making the theft less obvious to passersby.

Types Of Trailer Thieves

Opportunistic Thieves

Trailer theft often happens because someone spots an easy target. Opportunistic thieves operate without elaborate plans, simply taking advantage of situations that present themselves. These individuals typically carry basic tools like crowbars and sledgehammers to break locks or hitches.

Unlike professional criminals, opportunistic thieves lack specialized knowledge about trailers but compensate with boldness and quick decision-making. They scout for trailers left unattended in accessible locations, particularly those with minimal security measures.

What makes these criminals particularly dangerous is their unpredictability. They might target any trailer that appears vulnerable, regardless of its contents or value. Your trailer could become a target simply because you parked it in an isolated area or failed to secure it properly.

Most opportunistic thefts occur during brief windows when owners leave trailers unattended. These criminals rely on speed rather than sophistication, aiming to complete the theft before anyone notices.

Organized Gangs And Career Criminals

Professional trailer thieves operate with precision and purpose. Career criminals in this field possess extensive knowledge about different trailer types, security systems, and valuable cargo. Their operations function like businesses, with defined roles for each participant.

Organized gangs target specific trailers based on research and intelligence gathering. They monitor schedules, security patterns, and valuable cargo movements before executing thefts. These groups often have connections to black markets where stolen trailers or their contents can be quickly sold.

The scale of organized theft operations can be substantial, with some gangs responsible for stealing dozens of trailers across multiple states. Their methods evolve constantly to counter security improvements, making them challenging adversaries for law enforcement.

Many professional thieves use sophisticated equipment to defeat locks, GPS trackers, and other security devices. Their technical expertise allows them to overcome obstacles that would deter opportunistic thieves.

Insider Threats: Past Employees

Former employees represent a unique security risk for trailer owners. These individuals possess intimate knowledge of your security protocols, schedules, and valuable assets. Their familiarity with your operation provides advantages that outside thieves lack.

Past workers might retain keys or access codes long after their employment ends. Without proper security updates following staff departures, your trailers remain vulnerable to unauthorized access.

Disgruntled ex-employees may target your business specifically, motivated by perceived grievances rather than purely financial gain. This personal motivation can make them particularly determined thieves.

The risk extends beyond direct theft. Former staff members might share sensitive information with external criminals, creating partnerships that combine insider knowledge with criminal expertise.

Protecting against insider threats requires vigilance during employee transitions. Changing locks, updating access codes, and modifying security procedures should become standard practice whenever staff members leave your organization.

Effective Trailer Security Measures

Visual Deterrents And Markings

Making your trailer visually distinctive serves as a powerful theft deterrent. Thieves typically prefer anonymous-looking trailers that won’t draw attention during or after theft. You can make your trailer less appealing to criminals by adding custom paint jobs, company logos, or unique decals that make it instantly recognizable.

Consider applying reflective tape in unusual patterns or using bright, distinctive colors that stand out. These modifications make your trailer easily identifiable from a distance, increasing the risk for potential thieves. Permanent markings etched into the trailer’s surface or frame provide another layer of protection since they cannot be easily removed.

Vehicle identification numbers (VINs) should be prominently displayed but also hidden in secondary locations known only to you. This practice helps law enforcement identify your property if recovered after theft. Taking photographs of these unique markings creates documentation that proves ownership and assists police investigations.

Some owners opt for warning stickers indicating the presence of tracking devices or alarm systems, even if none exist. The mere suggestion of security measures often discourages opportunistic thieves looking for easy targets.

Mechanical Locks And Wheel Clamps

Physical security devices form a critical barrier against trailer theft. Heavy-duty hitch locks prevent unauthorized coupling by blocking access to the hitch mechanism. These devices range from simple pin locks to sophisticated coupler locks designed for specific trailer types.

Wheel clamps offer excellent protection by immobilizing your trailer completely. These visible devices wrap around one or more wheels, preventing rotation and making towing impossible without removal. Quality wheel clamps require specialized tools to remove, creating significant obstacles for thieves working under time pressure.

Chains and padlocks provide versatile security options when used correctly. You can secure your trailer to fixed objects like trees, posts, or dedicated anchors. Select hardened steel chains that resist cutting tools, paired with high-security padlocks featuring protected shackles.

King pin locks work specifically for fifth-wheel trailers by blocking the connection point to towing vehicles. These specialized devices prevent the trailer from being hitched to unauthorized trucks. For maximum effectiveness, choose models made from hardened materials resistant to drilling and cutting.

Alarm Systems And GPS Trackers

Modern technology offers powerful tools for trailer protection. Unlike vehicles, most trailers lack built-in security systems, creating vulnerability that thieves readily exploit. Adding aftermarket alarm systems addresses this weakness directly.

Motion-activated alarms detect unauthorized movement and trigger loud sirens, drawing attention to theft attempts. Some advanced systems send notifications to your smartphone when triggered, allowing immediate response even when you’re away from your property.

GPS tracking technology transforms how you monitor and recover stolen trailers. Compact tracking devices can be hidden throughout your trailer, transmitting location data to your phone or computer. Many trackers feature geofencing capabilities that alert you when your trailer moves outside predetermined boundaries.

Battery-powered trackers work independently of the trailer’s electrical system, functioning even if thieves disconnect standard power sources. Some models offer extended battery life measured in months rather than days, providing long-term monitoring without frequent maintenance.

Recovery rates for stolen trailers increase dramatically when GPS tracking is employed. Law enforcement can use precise location data to recover your property quickly, often before significant damage occurs. Some insurance companies offer premium discounts for trailers equipped with approved tracking systems, recognizing their effectiveness in reducing claims.

NASCAR DASH 4 CASH AND TRIPLE TRUCK CHALLENGE BRING HEFTY BONUS PAYOUTS TO BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY IN APRIL

The NASCAR Dash for Cash will award $100,000 to the driver with the highest finish among four eligible drivers during the Suburban Propane 300 on April 11 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Last year Justin Allgaier claimed the coveted bonus with a third place finish in the SciAps 300.

BRISTOL, Tenn. (Feb. 26, 2026) – NASCAR officials recently announced that that a pair of lucrative bonus programs are returning to Bristol Motor Speedway in 2026, the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Dash 4 Cash and the NASCAR Triple Truck Challenge.

The bonus races will be held during the iconic track’s Food City 500 weekend, April 10-12. The Dash 4 Cash will be contested during the Suburban Propane 300 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race on Saturday. The Triple Truck Challenge will be held during the Tennessee Army National Guard 250 Truck Race on Friday under the lights.

Bristol is the only carry-over track in the Dash 4 Cash program and joins Rockingham as the only two carry-overs in the Triple Truck Challenge. Bristol is the second of five races in the Dash 4 Cash and the final of the three-race series in the Triple Truck Challenge.

Both highly-coveted programs offer eligible drivers the opportunity to receive bonus paydays in the early part of the race season.

Dash 4 Cash rules in 2026 will be similar to 2025. A qualifying race will determine the four participants for the first official program race. The highest finish will collect the $100,000 prize and automatically qualify for the next Dash 4 Cash contest. The next three highest-finishing O’Reilly Auto Parts Series regulars will also qualify. These rules will repeat for subsequent Dash 4 Cash races. In order to qualify for the program, drivers must be declared to collect O’Reilly Auto Parts Series championship points.

The 2026 Triple Truck Challenge also will follow similar rules to those in previous years. During the three-race stretch, drivers will compete for a $50,000 bonus for winning a race. Should a driver win multiple events, the bonus money increases. If a driver wins two out of three races, he or she will be awarded a $150,000 total. If a driver wins all three Triple Truck Challenge races, a $500,000 total will be collected. In order to qualify for the Triple Truck Challenge, drivers must be declared to collect Craftsman Truck Series championship points.

The Dash 4 Cash program began in 2009, while the Triple Truck Challenge had its inaugural season in 2019.

Bristol Motor Speedway hosted both programs in 2025. Chandler Smith won the Craftsman Truck race in the spring and cashed in on the Triple Truck Challenge, which paid $50,000. Justin Allgaier finished third in the SciAps 300 O’Reilly Auto Parts race that was won by Kyle Larson, but as the highest finisher among the eligible Dash 4 Cash drivers, Allgaier scored the $100,000 bonus.

Six drivers have claimed Dash 4 Cash bonuses at Bristol Motor Speedway. In addition to Allgaier last year, other winners have included Daniel Suarez (2015), Erik Jones (2016), Daniel Hemric (2017), Ryan Preece (2018), and Christopher Bell (2019). Smith is Bristol’s lone Triple Truck Challenge winner.

The schedules for both programs this season are as follows:

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Dash 4 Cash schedule

April 4: Rockingham Speedway (qualifier)
April 11: Bristol Motor Speedway
April 18: Kansas Speedway
April 25: Talladega Superspeedway
May 2: Texas Motor Speedway

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Triple Truck Challenge schedule

March 20: Darlington Raceway
April 3: Rockingham Speedway
April 10: Bristol Motor Speedway

The racing action heats up at Bristol Motor Speedway April 10-12 during a weekend of NASCAR action when the Craftsman Trucks hit the Bristol high banks on the evening of April 10 for the Tennessee Army National Guard 250 Truck Race (7:30 p.m., FS1, PRN Radio, SiriusXM Radio); On Saturday, April 11, it will be action-packed with the Suburban Propane 300 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race (7:30 p.m., The CW, PRN Radio, Sirius XM Radio) and Bush’s Beans Qualifying; The tradition-rich Food City 500 NASCAR Cup Series race will thrill fans on Sunday afternoon, April 12 (3 p.m., FS1, PRN Radio, Sirius XM Radio) and bring the fun weekend to a triumphant finish.

In addition to cheering on their favorite drivers on the track, fans at Bristol Motor Speedway will definitely want to take advantage of so many activities to make a complete weekend of family fun. There will be great video entertainment provided by Colossus TV, the world’s largest center-hung video screen, plenty of music throughout the event, premium VIP experiences, tailgating, on-site camping, a pre-race track walk on the legendary oval, and other entertainment at the Food City Fan Zone Stage headlined by Trackside Live with Kenny Wallace, John Roberts and Jose Castillo, great food and beverages in the concession stands throughout the property, and so much more.

To purchase tickets to the Food City 500 weekend of races or any events at Bristol Motor Speedway, please visit the track’s website or call the BMS Ticket Sales Center at (866) 415-4158. You can also purchase tickets at any neighborhood Food City store while supplies lasts.

About Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol Motor Speedway, known as The Last Great Colosseum, sits in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee near the Virginia state line. The 0.533-mile concrete oval, with 28-degree banking, hosts two major NASCAR Cup Series weekends each year, the tradition-rich Food City 500 weekend in April and the crown jewel Bass Pro Shops Night Race Chase weekend in September. The venue has staged iconic moments such as the 2016 Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol football game between the University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech (NCAA-record 156,990 fans), the 2025 MLB Speedway Classic between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds (MLB regular-season record crowd of 91,032), the 2020 NASCAR All-Star Race, the rebirth of NASCAR Cup Series racing on dirt from 2021–2023 and sold-out concerts for Morgan Wallen and Kenny Chesney. Fans enjoy Colossus TV, the world’s largest outdoor center-hung four-sided screen video board. The adjacent Bristol Dragway is the home to the NHRA Super Grip Thunder Valley Nationals, and the dragway can transform into the Thunder Valley Amphitheatre for music concerts. Opened in 1961 and acquired by Speedway Motorsports in 1996, BMS remains one of America’s most unique and versatile sports and entertainment destinations. For more information, please visit www.bristolmotorspeedway.com.