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TOP FUEL SET FOR EPIC FINISH AT IN-N-OUT BURGER NHRA FINALS IN POMONA

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Official Release
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Points leader Justin Ashley leads the way, but eight Top Fuel standouts remain alive for thrilling finish at 2024 finale

POMONA, Calif. (Nov. 11, 2024) – With a thrilling finish all but guaranteed in Top Fuel heading into this weekend’s 59th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals at legendary In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, it’s Justin Ashley who takes the points lead into the final race of the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

But it’s an epic showdown that could go down to the final run of the season for the second straight year, as an incredible eight drivers are still in contention heading to the hallowed grounds of Pomona.

It all comes down to Pomona and the scenarios are nearly endless for a road to the championship in the loaded category. It’s Ashley who leads the way in his 11,000-horseppower Scag Power Equipment/Toyota dragster, as the young standout looks to win his first Top Fuel championship.

Ashley, though, knows it won’t be easy and he’ll need a near-flawless weekend, with Antron Brown only 44 points back and Shawn Langdon just 45 points behind. With Pomona a points-and-a-half race (30 points per round), there’s a host of other stars still in contention, including Steve Torrence and Doug Kalitta, who are both 85 points back, Clay Millican (-93), Vegas winner Brittany Force (-118) and Tony Schumacher (-127).

“Coming into Pomona in this position, it’s exciting and we’re looking forward to it,” said Ashley, who has four wins in 2024. “We have a team that has a lot of championship experience and we’re going to lean on that this weekend. We’re grateful and excited about the opportunity, but we’re definitely going to try to have a near-perfect weekend and hopefully win a championship. As a team, we’re focused on the present. There’s a lot more on the line, but we have to go in with the same mindset we’ve had all year long. It is meaningful to be in this situation and this is why we do what we do, to be in these situations.”

The 2023 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals saw Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Chad Green (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock), and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) take home event wins, while Kalitta (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) clinched world titles. The year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1 to close the season in style, including eliminations at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 17.

Brown, looking for his fifth win of the year, started the Countdown to the Championship red-hot, winning the first two races, but he’s struggled since then, falling in the second round at the most recent race in Las Vegas. But a big weekend in Pomona could mean a fourth world championship for Brown in his 11,000-horsepower Matco Tools/Toyota dragster and his first since the 2016 campaign.

“We have to come in there with our best foot forward. There’s so many cars running so well right now,” Brown said. “We have to get our stuff right. We had a good hot-weather setup to open the Countdown and you’re going to have to run 3.60s to get the job done in Pomona on a consistent basis.

“We feel a lot better heading into Pomona after testing and we’re excited to get there. Everybody knows the stakes are high. You’ve got to put the work in to make it happen and we’re going there to try and win. A (fourth) championship would be huge for all of us on this team, but it’s going to be a tough road. We’ve got this last shot and we’re going to go in there and be aggressive.”

Langdon had his own share of adversity in Vegas, crossing the center line and hitting a timing cone in the semifinals against Kalitta. It was a heartbreaking finish to the weekend and the team has been hard at work in recent days to put the car back together, putting a new front and back half on Langdon’s 11,000-horsepower Kalitta Air Careers/Toyota dragster.

Langdon praised the efforts of his Kalitta Motorsports team to get the car ready for Pomona and the former world champion, who has two victories this year, looks to end his year on a high note.

“You don’t want to overplay it and you get all this nervousness, but you always want everyone to embrace it and embrace this situation,” Langdon said. “We’re going to enjoy it. This is what we’ve worked for and you just have to trust the process. The car started off really well at the beginning of the year and the whole year we’ve felt like we’ve had a competitive car. We’ve always had a car that has qualified well and we’re looking to put it all together this weekend in Pomona.

“Las Vegas was a hard pill to swallow and it was tough, but the guys did a great job getting everything back together and we’re focused on what’s in front of us.”

The Funny Car championship is all but decided, as class newcomer Austin Prock takes a 188-point lead into Pomona. He’ll clinch his first career world title – and the 21st Funny Car title for John Force Racing – when he attempts his first qualifying pass. He’s also after a ninth Funny Car win, though the likes of Hagan, Ron Capps, Jack Beckman and Bob Tasca III will try to close out 2024 with a victory.

Pro Stock is down to a three-car race, with Aaron Stanfield jumping into the lead with his Las Vegas win. He leads Dallas Glenn by 32 points as both drivers are seeking their first championship. Veteran Greg Anderson is only 58 points back, while the likes of Erica Enders and Jeg Coughlin Jr. look to finish the year with a Pomona win.

The Pro Stock Motorcycle division has once again dominated by Herrera, the defending world champion. He heads to Pomona with 10 wins this year and a 123-point advantage over six-time world champion Matt Smith. With a strong qualifying effort, Herrera can claim his second straight world title before eliminations.

Along with racing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, fans can also see the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series in Pomona, while the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department will hold a special racing exhibition.

Fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage in the pits all weekend long, where they can take part in Nitro School, meet and greets, influencer interviews and much more. Pomona race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday, where fans are invited to congratulate the world champions and event winners.

As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. They can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes displays, merchandise, food, and fun.

The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will feature two qualifying rounds at 1 and 3:30 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 15, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, Nov. 17. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 a.m. ET on Sunday and then live eliminations on FS1 at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday.

To purchase tickets to the 59th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult.

Top Fuel
1. Justin Ashley, 2,475
2. Antron Brown, 2,431
3. Shawn Langdon, 2,430
4. (tie) Doug Kalitta, 2,390
Steve Torrence, 2,390
6. Clay Millican, 2,382
7. Brittany Force, 2,357
8. Tony Schumacher, 2,348
9. (tie) Shawn Reed, 2,215
Tony Stewart, 2,215		Funny Car
1. Austin Prock, 2,662
2. John Force, 2,474
3. Ron Capps, 2,411
4. Matt Hagan, 2,404
5. Bob Tasca III, 2,380
6. Blake Alexander, 2,311
7. Daniel Wilkerson, 2,290
8. J.R. Todd, 2,256
9. Chad Green, 2,220
10. Cruz Pedregon, 2,212
Pro Stock
1. Aaron Stanfield, 2,587
2. Dallas Glenn, 2,555
3. Greg Anderson, 2,531
4. Erica Enders, 2,459
5. Jeg Coughlin, 2,375
6. Matt Hartford, 2,273
7. Cristian Cuadra, 2,260
8. Jerry Tucker, 2,213
9. Troy Coughlin Jr., 2,206
10. Eric Latino, 2,189		Pro Stock Motorcycle
1. Gaige Herrera, 2,658
2. Matt Smith, 2,535
3. Richard Gadson, 2,427
4. Hector Arana Jr, 2,424
5. Chase Van Sant, 2,375
6. Angie Smith, 2,361
7. John Hall, 2,291
8. Jianna Evaristo, 2,282
9. Steve Johnson, 2,214
10. Chris Bostick, 2,160

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

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 Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X, Pingel Top Fuel Motorcycle and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock 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 110 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.

Why Small Chips in Your Windshield Can Lead to Bigger Problems If Not Repaired

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

A small chip in the windshield is easy to ignore. After all, it’s just a minor blemish on an otherwise clear view, right? However, that small imperfection is much more than a cosmetic flaw—it’s a vulnerability. Left untreated, a tiny chip can quickly become a major issue that affects not only your vehicle’s appearance but your safety as well. Ignoring a windshield chip can lead to further complications when it comes to repairs, turning what could have been a simple fix into an inconvenient ordeal.

That said, it’s crucial to have your vehicle’s windshield inspected by car care experts, like those that offer professional auto glass replacement in Ontario CA or in your local area. In this article, we’ll break down why it’s crucial to deal with windshield chips early and how doing so can prevent bigger problems down the line.

Small Chips Weaken Windshield Integrity

Windshields are designed to be a robust component of a vehicle. The glass in modern models is constructed using a special laminate that allows windshields to withstand impacts and support the car’s structure. In the event of an accident, windshields can help maintain the vehicle’s structural integrity, preventing the roof from collapsing and providing a barrier that protects occupants from external hazards. 

Should a windshield develop small chips, the entire component is considered compromised. A chip, regardless of its size, disrupts a windshield’s carefully engineered glass. It introduces a weak point that can undermine the windshield’s ability to absorb shock, which is critical in protecting passengers during an accident. Over time, as the car is exposed to the elements, the damaged area can become increasingly susceptible to more significant deterioration, placing both the driver and passengers at risk.

Minor Chips Can Quickly Turn into Larger Cracks

A seemingly harmless chip can quickly escalate due to various factors. For instance, hitting a pothole or navigating over rough terrain can jolt the windshield, causing the chip to spread. Even everyday driving experiences, such as sudden stops or rapid acceleration, can place stress on the windshield, increasing the likelihood of further damage. This progression often happens without warning, and once a chip has expanded into a crack, the repair options can become limited and costly. If the damage is significant, a complete windshield replacement may be necessary. 

Temperature Fluctuations Accelerate Damage

Windshields experience thermal expansion and contraction as temperatures rise and fall. When a small chip is exposed to sudden temperature shifts, such as when a driver turns on the heater on a cold morning or blasts the air conditioning on a hot day, the glass can react unpredictably. This stress can cause the chip to spread more rapidly than it would under consistent conditions. The expansion and contraction create tension around the damaged area, which can easily turn a minor flaw into a lengthy crack that compromises the entire windshield.

Potential  Safety Hazards

Beyond structural concerns, small chips in windshields pose significant safety hazards that should not be overlooked. A compromised windshield can impair a driver’s visibility, especially when sunlight or headlights glare off the damaged area. This distraction can lead to dangerous driving situations where a driver’s reaction time is slowed, increasing the likelihood of accidents. 

Furthermore, a chip can compromise the windshield’s ability to provide adequate protection during a collision, as a weakened windshield is more prone to shattering upon impact. This can jeopardize the effectiveness of airbags, which rely on the windshield to deploy correctly. In this way, even minor windshield damage can have serious implications for the safety of all vehicle occupants.

Windshield Repairs Become More Expensive

When a chip is ignored, the potential for that chip to expand into a crack increases—along with the costs associated with repairs. A simple chip repair is typically quick and straightforward, but once it develops into a crack, the expenses can grow significantly. Significant cracks may even necessitate a full windshield replacement, which often requires much more time and resources compared to a simple repair. Thus, addressing a small chip promptly can save you significant money in the long run.

Legal Consequences

Ignoring a chip in your windshield can also lead to legal consequences that many drivers may not consider. In many states, there are strict laws regarding the condition of a vehicle’s windshield. A chip or crack that obstructs the driver’s view can result in a traffic violation, leading to fines or citations. 

In addition, vehicles with significant windshield damage may not pass state inspections, which can prevent them from being legally driven. This can lead to additional costs, such as re-inspection fees or penalties. Being proactive about windshield maintenance not only enhances safety but also ensures compliance with the law, helping drivers avoid unnecessary legal troubles.

Many drivers underestimate the importance of addressing minor windshield damage. However, these seemingly insignificant chips can have surprising consequences over time. Understanding why immediate repairs matter, and how they can help preserve your vehicle’s integrity and ensure your safety, might just change your perspective the next time a small chip appears on your vehicle’s windshield.

The Journey of a New Player in Online Slot Gaming

By
SM
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Starting in the world of online slot gaming can feel like a thrilling adventure filled with flashing lights, exciting themes, and the possibility of winning big. However, for new players, it can also be a bit overwhelming. Between finding the right game, understanding the rules, and learning how to manage a bankroll, the journey of a new player in slot gaming has plenty of twists and turns. 

In this article, we’ll walk through everything a new player might experience and offer some useful tips to make the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Getting Started with Online Slot Gaming

The first step in any new player’s online slot journey is choosing the right platform. With so many online casinos and gaming sites out there, it can be challenging to figure out where to start. The ideal choice is a reputable online casino with secure payment options, strong customer support, and a variety of slot games to keep things interesting.

Most new players are drawn to online slots because of their simplicity. Unlike other casino games like poker or blackjack, slots don’t require prior knowledge or experience to start. It’s as easy as picking a game, setting your wager, and hitting the “spin” button. However, even though it may seem simple, there’s still a lot to learn if you want to make the most out of your online slot gaming experience at slot 88.

Understanding the Basics of Online Slot Games

For beginners, it’s essential to understand the basics of how online slot games work. Most online slots are based on a combination of reels, paylines, and symbols. Reels are the vertical sections of the game that spin with each play, paylines are the lines that determine winning combinations, and symbols are the icons that appear on the reels.

Different types of slots come with various numbers of reels and paylines. Some online slots have classic three-reel setups, while others feature five or even seven reels. Similarly, paylines can range from just one to hundreds, with each payline offering a different chance to win.

Exploring Different Types of Slot Games

A big part of a new player’s journey involves discovering the variety of online slot games available. Here are some popular types you might encounter:

  • Classic Slots: Often designed to look like the traditional slot machines you’d find in a physical casino, these are simple, three-reel games with straightforward gameplay.
  • Video Slots: Video slots are more advanced and usually have five reels, unique themes, and engaging animations. Many also include special features like bonus rounds and free spins.
  • Progressive Slots: These are slots where a portion of each bet contributes to a larger jackpot. This jackpot keeps growing until someone hits the winning combination, often resulting in a life-changing payout.

Each of these types has its appeal, so experimenting with different slots can be part of the fun. As a new player, you may want to start with classic slots to get a feel for the game, and then move on to more advanced video or progressive slots once you’re comfortable.

Managing Your Bankroll

An essential skill for any online slot player, especially beginners, is bankroll management. Without a plan, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and spend more than you intended. Bankroll management simply means setting a budget for your online slot gaming and sticking to it.

To help manage your bankroll:

  • Decide how much money you’re willing to spend before you start playing.
  • Divide your budget into smaller amounts for each session.
  • Don’t chase losses; if you hit your limit, it’s better to step away and try another day.

By setting these limits, you can enjoy online slot games responsibly and avoid unnecessary stress.

Enjoying the Journey as a New Slot Player

The journey of a new player in online slot gaming is about more than just winning. It’s about learning the games, finding your favorite slots, and discovering what type of player you are. Some players enjoy the thrill of high-risk progressive slots, while others prefer the steady fun of classic slots. Whatever you choose, remember to have fun and play responsibly.

By keeping an open mind and practicing responsible gambling habits, you can make the most out of your journey and truly enjoy the world of online slot gaming. Whether you’re in it for the occasional thrill or hoping to score big, every player’s journey is unique. So get out there, spin those reels, and enjoy the ride!

FORD PERFORMANCE AND ROUSH YATES ENGINES WIN THIRD NASCAR CUP SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP IN A ROW

By
Official Release
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Photo courtesy of NASCAR Media & Getty Images

AVONDALE, AZ – November 11, 2024 – Team Penske’s Joey Logano won Sunday’s Championship race at Phoenix Raceway, marking his 36th career NASCAR Cup Series victory, fourth of the year, and his fourth at Phoenix. This win also marks the first time Ford has won the NASCAR Cup Series title three years in a row (Logano in 2022, Blaney in 2023, and Logano in 2024) and the first time that has been achieved by Team Penske. Logano is the first Ford driver to win at least three Cup Series championships and the 10th driver in NASCAR history, joining fellow three-time winners Tony Stewart, Cale Yarborough, Darrell Waltrip, David Pearson and Lee Petty; four-time champion Jeff Gordon; and seven-time champions Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty.

“Congratulations to Roger, Tim, Paul, Joey, and everyone at Team Penske on a 1-2 finish at Phoenix and the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Championship!,” said Doug Yates, President and CEO of Roush Yates Engines. “Both of the Team Penske cars were fast throughout the race and Joey did an amazing job on that last restart. We’re proud to have powered three NASCAR Cup Series Championships in a row, and it’s an honor to stand alongside such a talented and hardworking team.”

“I love the playoffs. I love it, man. What a race. What a Team Penske battle there at the end. I had a good restart and was able to get in front of the 12. He had a lot of long run speed there and that was all I had there to hold him off. We have three of them. That’s really special. What a team to fight through today. We went through a little bit of adversity in throughout the race. I can’t thank Ford enough and Shell and Pennzoil and Hunt Brother’s Pizza. Paul Wolfe, what a crew chief I have. I’ve got the best team. I don’t know if I’m the best driver, but I’ve got the best team and together we’re very well-rounded and can show up when it matters the most. We’ve got a mentally tough team that can make things happen when it matters,” commented Logano.

Team Penske’s Joey Logano started Sunday’s race for the championship in P2 with teammate and fellow championship contender Ryan Blaney in P17. On lap 10, Logano took the lead and held on to win Stage 1. Following pit stops during the caution, Logano fell to fifth with teammate Ryan Blaney just ahead. Blaney passed Christopher Bell for the lead on lap 178 to win Stage 2. The race only had two cautions for incidents, the first on lap 2 and the second on lap 250. The yellow flag for the second caution waved with only seven cars on the lead lap – three of which were Championship 4 contenders – Blaney, Logano and Reddick. Byron stayed out during the caution period to restart from the lead with fresh tires. Logano took the lead for the final time after gaining four spots in two laps on the final restart with 52 laps remaining, passing teammate Ryan Blaney and Christopher Bell. Logano was able to hold off Blaney in the closing laps and won by 0.330 seconds for a 1-2 finish for Team Penske. Since NASCAR introduced the elimination style playoffs, Logano is the only three-time champion (2018, 2022, and 2024). Team owner Roger Penske’s organization scored its third consecutive Cup championship, having won all three titles since NASCAR introduced the Next Gen car in 2022.

A total of three Ford Performance drivers finished in the top-10: Team Penske’s Joey Logano in P1, Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney in P2, and RFK Racing’s Chris Buescher in P9.

The Xfinity Series also raced for the Championship at Phoenix on Saturday, with Stewart-Haas Racing’s Cole Custer in contention. Teammate Riley Herbst started the race from P3 and Custer started in P7. After taking the lead on lap 10, Herbst won Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the race. After 2 overtime restarts, Herbst passed Justin Allgaier for the race win, while Justin Allgaier won the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship and Cole Custer finished second.

“I knew we were going to have a fast race car. These guys have been working on this Phoenix car as if we were in the playoffs. I knew we were going to be really fast. It has been a really tough week this past week at the shop and a lot of really emotional people. This place has been home for a lot of people for a long time, including myself and it has built me into who I am the last four years. I am grateful to every man and woman at Stewart-Haas Racing. They gave me a really fast car today and we capitalized on it. I can’t thank Monster Energy enough and everyone on the 98 team. They deserve to win. That is a championship caliber team and crew chief. I wish we could have cleaned some stuff up over the last summer but I am proud of these guys and we will see what next year has,” commented Riley Herbst.

About Roush Yates Engines
Roush Yates Engines is a leading-edge engine development company based in Mooresville, NC consisting of two state-of-the-art facilities – Roush Yates Engines and Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions, a world class AS9100 Rev D/ISO 13485 certified CNC manufacturing facility. The company’s core business includes designing, building and testing purpose-built race engines.

Ford Performance in partnership with Roush Yates Engines is the exclusive engine builder of the NASCAR FR9 Ford V8 engine.

With an unparalleled culture of winning and steeped in rich racing history, Roush Yates Engines continues to follow the company’s vision to lead performance engine innovation and staying true to the company’s mission, provide race winning engines through demonstrated power and performance.

PRESCOTT RACEWAY JOINS NHRA MEMBER TRACK FAMILY IN DIVISION 4

By
Official Release
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PRESCOTT, Ark. (Nov. 11, 2024) – NHRA is pleased to announce the addition of Prescott Raceway to the network of NHRA Member Tracks, within the NHRA’s South Central Division (Division 4).

Located just outside of Prescott, Ark., Prescott Raceway has been a standout venue for grassroots drag racing since it opened in 1977. The facility has displayed a strong commitment to local racing and high-quality events, aligning with NHRA’s mission for safe and exciting drag racing across the country.

“This is a milestone moment for Prescott Raceway,” said Prescott Raceway owner Jackie Lewis, who purchased the facility in 2010. “Becoming an NHRA Member Track allows us to offer more to our racers and fans, while also elevating our events to new heights. We are excited to collaborate with the NHRA and continue building a strong future for drag racing in Arkansas.”

As one of the over 100 NHRA Member Tracks, Prescott Raceway will be eligible to offer racers in the area a variety of NHRA racing opportunities in the future, including the NHRA Summit Racing Series, the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League, NHRA Street Legal, NHRA Jr. Street and more. Additionally, the track will have the chance to host NHRA specialty events like the NHRA Summit King of the Track and more.

Prescott Raceway will host a range of NHRA events starting in the upcoming 2025 season, with schedules to be announced soon. NHRA’s expansion in the region also affirms its commitment to providing opportunities for racers and fans in the local area.

“We are thrilled to welcome Prescott Raceway to the NHRA family,” said Jonathan Johnson, NHRA Division 4 Director. “The track’s passion for motorsports and dedication to its racers perfectly complements our mission to grow the sport at the grassroots level. We look forward to seeing Prescott Raceway thrive as part of the NHRA network and deliver exceptional events for the racing community.”

For more information about Prescott Raceway and upcoming NHRA events, visit www.prescottraceway.net. For more information on NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

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 Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock 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 110 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.

Flying Lizard Motorsports Takes on World Finals in Spain

By
Official Release
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JEREZ, Spain. (November 11, 2024) – After five doubleheader race weekends across North America since April, Flying Lizard Motorsports’ Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America program has arrived in Jerez, Spain, to conclude the 2024 race season at the Lamborghini World Finals. Three of the team’s four entries will compete in four races this weekend: two to finish their North American championships and two to challenge their European and Asian series counterparts for the coveted title of World Finals Champion.

“The World Finals events for the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Series are always great race weekends,” said Program Manager Darren Law. “We love coming to Europe to not only race against the top Lamborghini teams from around the world, but it is also great for our drivers and crew to experience some of these iconic tracks in Europe. Jerez is new for most of the US teams, so we will have to get up to speed quickly. We have done our research, our drivers have been training on the sim, and we are looking forward to some great racing and a great experience in Spain.”

The Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto, nestled in the scenic Spanish countryside about 292 miles southwest of Madrid, will host the final rounds of the 2024 Lamborghini Super Trofeo championships. This 2.751-mile permanent road course features 15 flowing corners and nearly 98 feet of elevation change, providing a challenging yet balanced playing field for the competitors—many of whom are racing on this circuit for the first time.

Slade Stewart and Andy Lee enter the weekend fourth in the Pro-Am championship standings with 70 points. With one win and seven top-five finishes, they’re aiming to close the 28-point gap to the championship leaders as they compete in Pro-Am lass in their No. 14 Lamborghini, affectionately known as “Sparklefarts,” the pink unicorn car that’s become a fan favorite. The duo celebrated a victory and additional podium at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, as well as a podium finish at the iconic Sebring International Raceway.

Returning in the No. 141 car, Paul Nemschoff and Marc Miller are ready to compete after sitting out the Indianapolis Motor Speedway doubleheader. Despite a chaotic season with high car counts, the pair secured a top-five finish in the Pro-Am class at Watkins Glen International and are determined to earn their first podium or victory of 2024.

This weekend will also mark the close of Sam Shi’s first season in professional sports car racing. Competing in the Am class, Shi has shown impressive pace and steadily refined his racecraft in the No. 194, achieving pole position at Sebring International Raceway, one podium at Watkins Glen International, and four additional top-five finishes at premier North American tracks.

Absent this weekend is the No. 54 entry of Tim Pappas and Jeroen Bleekemolen, due to schedule conflicts for Pappas.

The Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America competitors will have two remaining 50-minute races on Thursday and Friday, November 14 and 15, to determine the North American champions in each class. The slate then resets on Saturday, when North America’s top drivers will go head-to-head with their counterparts from Europe and Asia in two final 50-minute races to determine the World Finals champions. All races will be streamed live on imsa.com/tvlive or the Lamborghini Squadra Corse YouTube page.

Event Schedule

Wednesday, November 13

9:25 AM – 10:10 AM CET [3:25 AM – 4:10 AM EST] Practice 1

1:05 PM – 1:50 PM [7:05 AM – 7:50 AM EST] CET Practice 2

3:55 PM – 4:15 PM CET [9:55 AM – 10:15 AM EST] Qualifying 1

4:25 PM – 4:45 PM CET [10:25 AM – 10:45 AM EST] Qualifying 2

Thursday, November 14

12:25 PM – 1:15 PM CET [6:25 AM – 7:15 AM EST] North America Race 1

Friday, November 15

1:40 PM – 2:30 PM CET [7:40 AM – 6:30 AM EST] North America Race 2

Saturday, November 16

8:50 AM – 9:05 AM CET [2:50 AM – 3:05 AM EST] Warm Up – Am

9:15 AM – 9:30 AM CET [3:15 AM – 3:30 AM EST] Warm Up – ProAm

10:35 AM – 10:55 AM CET [4:35 AM – 4:55 AM EST] Qualifying 1 – Am

11:05 AM – 11:20 AM CET [5:05 AM – 5:20 AM EST] Qualifying 2 – Am

11:35 AM – 11:55 AM CET [5:35 AM – 5:55 AM EST] Qualifying 1 – ProAm

12:05 PM – 12:25 PM CET [6:05 AM – 6:25 AM EST] Qualifying 2 – ProAm

1:55 PM – 2:45 PM CET [7:55 AM – 8:45 AM EST] World Finals Race 1 – Am

5:10 PM – 6:00 PM CET [11:10 AM – 12:00 PM EST] World Finals Race 1 – ProAm

Sunday, November 17

11:50 AM – 12:40 PM CET [5:50 AM – 6:40 AM EST] World Finals Race 2 – Am

2:40 PM – 3:30 PM CET [8:40 AM – 9:30 AM EST] World Finals Race 2 – ProAm

About Flying Lizard Motorsports

Flying Lizard Motorsports is a premier motorsport team known for its unwavering commitment to excellence and success on the racing circuit. With a rich history spanning over two decades, Flying Lizard Motorsports has earned a formidable reputation as a powerhouse in the world of motorsports, boasting 24 championship titles and a legacy of podium finishes across North America and at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. Fueled by passion, expertise, and a relentless drive for perfection, the team continues to push boundaries and set new standards of performance in every competition it enters. Through strategic partnerships and a dedicated team of professionals, Flying Lizard Motorsports remains at the forefront of motorsport innovation, delivering thrilling racing experiences and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.

Apex Motor Club

Apex Motor Club is Arizona’s premier motorsports club located just 35 miles southwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and the only private motorsports club located within a major metropolitan area. APEX is the ultimate country club for automotive enthusiasts where car culture, racing and country club lifestyles converge. Enjoy an hour of track time in your latest acquisition, drive off track, into your privately-owned garage and join like- minded enthusiasts in the clubhouse for food, beverages, and activities.

APEX Motor Club features only the best in racing technology. The APEX phase one track is a 2.27-mile circuit with an additional 2.15-mile circuit in phase 2, beginning construction in 2023. APEX is paved using the latest techniques and premium materials, creating the smoothest and most durable racing surface, rarely found on most race tracks.

Furthermore, APEX incorporated extensive run off and installed an LED flag-lighting system to offer members a premium and safe racing atmosphere.

APEX has something for everyone from world-class racing circuits to private collection tours, as well as a clubhouse with amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant and more. The APEX experience offers everything from the APEX Academy, which not only teaches members their new track, but provides the fundamentals in performance driving techniques, to private one-on-one coaching with industry experts and racing professionals. In addition, APEX features on-site fueling and offers concierge-level service for preparing your vehicle prior to as well as during lapping and racing sessions. The APEX off-track experience is just as valuable! APEX members enjoy special invitations to a variety of unique experiences throughout the valley and country all year long.

Website: www.apexmotorclub.com.

About Lamborghini Newport Beach

Lamborghini Newport Beach is the authorized sales & service franchise for Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. serving Orange County, California.

Representing Lamborghini since 2010, Lamborghini Newport Beach is continuously one of the top US retailers year after year. With many years of combined experience, their team of professionals has all the knowledge and expertise necessary to assist you with purchasing the Lamborghini of your dreams, or properly maintaining the one in your garage. All Lamborghini Newport Beach technicians are fully factory certified, and all sales staff holds master certifications. Their newly opened state of the art facilities are now located at 44 Auto Center Drive, inside the Irvine Auto Center.

Rick Ware Racing: NASCAR Season Finale from Phoenix

By
Official Release
-

RICK WARE RACING
NASCAR Season Finale

Date: Nov. 10, 2024
Event: NASCAR Cup Series Season Finale (Round 36 of 36)
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Phoenix Raceway (1-mile oval)
Format: 312 laps, broken into three stages (60 laps / 125 laps / 127 laps)
Champion: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)

Race Winner: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)
Stage 1 Winner: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)
Stage 2 Winner: Ryan Blaney of Team Penske (Ford)

RWR Race Finish:

● Corey LaJoie (Started 20th, Finished 32nd/ Running, completed 309 of 312 laps)
● Kaz Grala (Started 31st, Finished 34th/Running, completed 308 of 312 laps)

RWR Points:

● Corey LaJoie (33rd with 489 points)
● Kaz Grala (35th with 206 points)

RWR Notes:

● This was LaJoie’s 15th NASCAR Cup Series start at Phoenix. His best finish remains 18th, earned in November 2022.
● This was Grala’s second NASCAR Cup Series start at Phoenix. His best finish remains 30th, earned on March 10.

Race Notes:

● Joey Logano won the NASCAR Cup Series Season Finale to score his 36th career NASCAR Cup Series victory, his fourth of the year and his fourth at Phoenix. His margin over second-place Ryan Blaney was .33 of a second.

● Logano earned the NASCAR Cup Series championship at Phoenix by virtue of his win. It was Logano’s third NASCAR Cup Series championship (2018, 2022 and 2024), making him the 10th different driver to win three or more championships all-time, and the only active fulltime driver to accomplish the feat.

● This was Ford’s 740th all-time NASCAR Cup Series victory, its 12th of the season and second straight. Blaney won last Sunday at Martinsville for the Blue Oval.

● This was Ford’s series-leading 20th NASCAR Cup Series victory at Phoenix. The manufacturer won the first two races at Phoenix with NASCAR Hall of Famers Alan Kulwicki on Nov. 6, 1988, and Bill Elliott on Nov. 5, 1989. It has now won three of the last six races at Phoenix with Briscoe (March 2022) and Logano (November 2022 and 2024).

● Ford’s NASCAR Cup Series championship streak extended to three in a row with Logano’s victory in the season finale at Phoenix.

● Ford has won the Cup Series championship 12 times by nine different drivers. In addition, Ford has won at least two NASCAR championships in each of the last three seasons, including a sweep of all three last year.

● Logano is the first Ford driver to win at least three NASCAR Cup Series championships and the 10th driver in NASCAR history to do so, joining fellow three-time winners Tony Stewart, Cale Yarborough, Darrell Waltrip, David Pearson and Lee Petty; four-time champion Jeff Gordon; and seven-time titleholders Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty.

● There were four caution periods for a total of 33 laps.

● Only 19 of the 40 drivers in the race finished on the lead lap.

Next Up:

The 2025 season begins with the non-points Busch Light Clash on Feb. 2 at historic Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, before kicking off its 36-race slate of points-paying events with the 67th Daytona 500 on Feb. 16 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. Both races will be broadcast live on FOX and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Stewart-Haas Racing: NASCAR Season Finale from Phoenix & End of the SHR Era (2009-2024)

By
Official Release
-

STEWART-HAAS RACING
NASCAR Season Finale

Date: Nov. 10, 2024
Event: NASCAR Cup Series Season Finale (Round 36 of 36)
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Phoenix Raceway (1-mile oval)
Format: 312 laps, broken into three stages (60 laps/125 laps/127 laps)
Champion: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)

Race Winner: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)
Stage 1 Winner: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)
Stage 2 Winner: Ryan Blaney of Team Penske (Ford)

SHR Finish:

● Noah Gragson (Started 21st, Finished 12th / Running, completed 312 of 312 laps)
● Josh Berry (Started 39th, Finished 24th / Running, completed 311 of 312 laps)
● Chase Briscoe (Started 12th, Finished 29th / Running, completed 310 of 312 laps)
● Ryan Preece (Started 33rd, Finished 37th / Running, completed 302 of 312 laps)

SHR Points:

● Chase Briscoe (14th with 2,184 points)
● Noah Gragson (24th with 612 points)
● Ryan Preece (26th with 584 points)
● Josh Berry (27th with 579 points)

SHR End of an Era (2009-2024):

● Phoenix marked SHR’s 576th and final NASCAR Cup Series race. The team made its official debut on Feb. 15, 2009 in the Daytona 500 with drivers Tony Stewart and Ryan Newman, who finished eighth and 36th, respectively. However, that was not the team’s first on-track outing. Some important dates led up to that moment…

●  Dec. 17, 2008: Newman tests at North Carolina Speedway in Rockingham. It is the first-ever on-track activity for SHR. 

●  Jan. 14, 2009: Stewart and Newman test at New Smyrna (Fla.) Speedway. It marks the first SHR test for Stewart, and the first test where both SHR teams are on track together.

●  Feb. 4,  2009: SHR’s two transporters leave the team’s Kannapolis, North Carolina-based shop at exactly 1:08 p.m. EST bound for Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

●  Feb. 6,  2009: Stewart drives his No. 14 machine during Budweiser Shootout practice at Daytona. It marks the first official on-track activity for SHR.

●  Feb. 8, 2009: Newman and Stewart place both SHR cars within the top-10 during Daytona 500 time trials. Newman posts the third-quickest time and Stewart notches the 10th-fastest time.

● Twenty different drivers have competed for SHR in the NASCAR Cup Series: Kevin Harvick (360 starts), Stewart (262 starts), Aric Almirola (216 starts), Newman (180 starts), Danica Patrick (180 starts), Kurt Busch (177 starts), Chase Briscoe (144 starts), Clint Bowyer (144 starts), Cole Custer (108 starts), Ryan Preece (72 starts), Josh Berry (36 starts), Noah Gragson (36 starts), Daniel Suárez (36 starts), Mark Martin (12 starts), Brian Vickers (five starts), Regan Smith (four starts), Ty Dillon (three starts), Austin Dillon (two starts), Jeff Burton (two starts) and Max Papis (one start).

● SHR’s final win tally stands at 106: 70 points-paying NASCAR Cup Series wins, six non-points-paying NASCAR Cup Series wins, 29 NASCAR Xfinity Series wins and one ARCA Menards Series win.

● SHR’s final championship tally stands at four: two in the NASCAR Cup Series (2011 with Stewart and 2014 with Harvick) and two in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (2018 owners’ championship and 2023 drivers’ championship with Cole Custer).

SHR Race Notes:

● This was Gragson’s milestone 75th career NASCAR Cup Series start.

● Gragson earned his 16th top-15 of the season and his second top-15 in three career NASCAR Cup Series starts at Phoenix.

● This was Gragson’s fourth straight top-20. He finished 18th Oct. 20 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 19th Oct. 27 at Homestead-Miami Speedway and 11th last Sunday at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway.

● Gragson’s 12th-place result equaled his previous best finish at Phoenix, originally earned in March.

Race Notes:

● Joey Logano won the NASCAR Cup Series Season Finale to score his 36th career NASCAR Cup Series victory, his fourth of the year and his fourth at Phoenix. His margin over second-place Ryan Blaney was .33 of a second.

● Logano earned the NASCAR Cup Series championship at Phoenix by virtue of his win. It was Logano’s third NASCAR Cup Series championship (2018, 2022 and 2024), making him the 10th different driver to win three or more championships all-time, and the only active fulltime driver to accomplish the feat.

● This was Ford’s 740th all-time NASCAR Cup Series victory, its 12th of the season and second straight. Blaney won last Sunday at Martinsville for the Blue Oval.

● This was Ford’s series-leading 20th NASCAR Cup Series victory at Phoenix. The manufacturer won the first two races at Phoenix with NASCAR Hall of Famers Alan Kulwicki on Nov. 6, 1988, and Bill Elliott on Nov. 5, 1989. It has now won three of the last six races at Phoenix with Briscoe (March 2022) and Logano (November 2022 and 2024).

● Ford’s NASCAR Cup Series championship streak extended to three in a row with Logano’s victory in the season finale at Phoenix.

● Ford has won the Cup Series championship 12 times by nine different drivers. In addition, Ford has won at least two NASCAR championships in each of the last three seasons, including a sweep of all three last year.

● Logano is the first Ford driver to win at least three NASCAR Cup Series championships and the 10th driver in NASCAR history to do so, joining fellow three-time winners Tony Stewart, Cale Yarborough, Darrell Waltrip, David Pearson and Lee Petty; four-time champion Jeff Gordon; and seven-time titleholders Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty.

● There were four caution periods for a total of 33 laps.

● Only 19 of the 40 drivers in the race finished on the lead lap.

Sound Bites:

“Today was a good improvement from where we were in practice, and then from where we qualified we just continued to stay in the fight and inch our way up front. We were looking at a top-10 day and just faded a little bit too much there on the last run. But, overall, today’s about the memories and the people. The people of Stewart-Haas are in a challenging position right now with everything that’s gone on this year, but we all rally behind each other and support each other. And today is about all those people who are looking for jobs, who build these racecars, got our race team to the racetrack and back, and work so hard and sacrifice so much. So, overall, I’m super grateful and I’ll cherish this moment today.” – Noah Gragson, driver of the No. 10 Nitro Circus Ford Mustang Dark Horse

“Man, this is just such a special group and I can’t say thank you enough to everyone at SHR for all they did this season. We had some really tough circumstances and a lot of uncertainty, and the No. 4 group still showed up and gave it their all and I am just so thankful.” – Josh Berry, driver of the No. 4 Texas A&M University Ford Mustang Dark Horse

“That was definitely not the day we wanted? Just couldn’t really ever get the car driving right, definitely not the finish we wanted, but I told the guys before we took off whether we win or finish 36th, let’s just have fun today and enjoy it. I mean, this is probably the most smiling and laughing we’ve ever had after a 29th-place finish. So, yeah, we obviously would’ve loved to have a better result, but at the end of the day, it was all about just enjoying each other and the people and everything that makes Stewart-Haas so special. It’s been a place I’m so thankful to have called home for the last seven years. I knew, honestly, it was going to be a little bit emotional but, I mean, I was crying before we rolled off pit road. Just appreciative of the opportunity Tony (Stewart) and Gene (Haas) gave me. My dream was to make it to the Cup Series and the 14 car was the car I always cheered for, so the fact that I got to drive it and do it for my childhood hero was pretty cool. Definitely something I never took for granted.” – Chase Briscoe, driver of the No. 14 Mahindra Tractors Ford Mustang Dark Horse

“It was a good year and I really appreciate all the hard work.” – Ryan Preece, driver of the No. 41 HaasTooling.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Next Up:

The 2025 season begins with the non-points Busch Light Clash on Feb. 2 at historic Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, before kicking off its 36-race slate of points-paying events with the 67th Daytona 500 on Feb. 16 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. Both races will be broadcast live on FOX and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race Report – Logano Wins His Third NCS Title!

By
Official Release
-

NASCAR Cup Series Championship
Avondale, AZ – November 10, 2024

AUSTIN CINDRIC No. 2 DISCOUNT TIRE FORD MUSTANG

START: 11TH STAGE ONE: 10TH STAGE TWO: 13TH FINISH: 13TH POINTS: 11TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Austin Cindric and the No. 2 Discount Tire Ford Mustang team finished 13th in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway, adding to a solid day for Team Penske that ended with teammate Joey Logano’s win and championship. After qualifying in the 11th position, Cindric showed solid speed in his No. 2 Ford throughout the first stage as he finished 10th. After the first pit stops of the day, the No. 12 team was part of a pit crew reshuffling as the jackman for the No. 22 Ford came down with an illness. Cindric’s jackman, Pat Gray, was moved to Logano’s team and Cindric’s crew was backfilled thanks to the depth of the Team Penske pit crews. Despite the changes to his team, Cindric continued to maintain a position in the first half of the running order, nearly racing himself into position for a top-10 finish in the series’ final standings before finishing 13th in the 312-lap event and coming just 10 points short of the top 10 in points. The No. 2 Discount Tire Ford Mustang team picked up their second NCS victory earlier this year at World Wide Technology Raceway, and Cindric’s 11th-place points finish is his career-best mark.

CINDRIC’S THOUGHTS: “First off a huge congratulations to Joey, Mr. Penske and everyone on the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil team. Three championships in a row just shows what kind of team we have at Team Penske. Those guys set a high bar and it makes me hungry to get to Daytona for next season. Great effort today, all year really, by this Discount Tire Ford Mustang team. We took some big steps in our growth, and I’m proud to go racing with Brian (Wilson) and all the guys. A great season and looking forward to next year.”

RYAN BLANEY No. 12 MENARDS/RICHMOND WATER HEATERS FORD MUSTANG

START: 17TH STAGE ONE: 6TH STAGE TWO: 1ST FINISH: 2ND POINTS: 2ND

RACE RUNDOWN: Ryan Blaney and the No. 12 Menards/Richmond Water Heaters Ford Mustang team came only a few feet from winning their second-consecutive NASCAR Cup Series title on Sunday afternoon at Phoenix Raceway before finishing second to Team Penske teammate Joey Logano. In Saturday’s qualifying session, Blaney was one of several drivers to bobble in the center of Turns 1 and 2, resulting in a 17th-place starting position. Many in the garage, however, pointed to the race speed in the No. 12 Ford and Blaney wasted little time in driving to the front of the field after the green flag dropped. Following a sixth-place finish in the first stage, Blaney restarted fourth for stage two to set up a run to the race lead as that stage concluded. A caution on Lap 66 brought Blaney and other leaders down pit road for four fresh Goodyear tires as Championship 4 contender, William Byron, elected to stay out with tires only 16 laps old. After restarting from the sixth position, Blaney became boxed in by Byron’s teammate, Kyle Larson, as he attempted to run down Byron and Logano, who drove to the lead after restarting fifth. Once he dispatched of Larson, Blaney began to take chunks of time out of Logano’s lead, eventually making it a Team Penske battle at the front for the last six laps of the race. As the two raced cleanly, Blaney gave it a valiant effort before crossing the finish line in second. The No. 12 team finished the year with three wins, helping give Team Penske its first 1-2 finish in the NASCAR Cup Series Championship standings.

BLANEY’S THOUGHTS: “Yeah, just worn out really and just couldn’t quite get there. And tried really hard to do so, just restart didn’t really work out and just got too far away from me and took me a while to pass a couple guys and just could never get by Joey. Yeah, ran out of time.

“But congrats to him, congrats to the 22 team and Pennzoil and Ford. They put together a great playoffs, and we’re happy. If we’re going to race somebody, I’m happy it was him for the championship, and happy to be one-two for Roger, three in a row for Roger, super amazing, and Ford.

“But on my side, I hate it for Menards, Advance Auto Parts, Body Armor, Dex Imaging, Wabash, the Wurth group, everybody who really puts a lot of effort into our program.”

JOEY LOGANO No. 22 SHELL-PENNZOIL FORD MUSTANG

START: 2ND STAGE ONE: 1ST STAGE TWO: 3RD FINISH: 1ST POINTS: 1ST

RACE RUNDOWN: Joey Logano and the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang team fought through more adversity than any of the other Championship 4 drivers in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway, but sheer perseverance won out as he took the checkered flag to capture his third NCS title. Logano joins a list of five other NASCAR legends with his third career title and gives Team Penske its 47th championship in team history. The third-consecutive NCS title for Team Penske places a capstone on a remarkable season for the team as a whole, adding to wins in the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the Indianapolis 500 along with championships in IMSA and WEC. Logano began the 312-lap race from the second position before quickly assuming the to win the first stage with ease. As issue on the first pit stop of the day and the loss of jackman Graham Stoddard to illness dealt the team significant curveballs in the first half of the race, but over the second half of the event Logano stayed within sight of the lead and passed the No. 24 of William Byron for the top spot with 53 laps to go following a yellow-flag pit stop for fresh tires after a Lap 66 incident. As the race wound down, Team Penske teammate Ryan Blaney was able to drive to the rear bumper of the No. 22 Ford but could not muster a run to make the pass through clean racing between the last three NCS champions (Logano – 2022 and 2024, Blaney – 2023). The No. 22 team finishes the 2024 season with four points-paying wins – three in the NCS Playoffs – and a dominating victory in the NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

LOGANO’S THOUGHTS: “I love the playoffs. I love it, man. What a race! What a Team Penske battle there at the end. Had a good restart and was able to get in front of the 12. And he had a lot of long run speed there, and it was all I had there to hold him off.

“Man, three of them, that’s really special to get that. What a team. To fight through today, we went through a little bit of adversity throughout the race. I can’t thank Ford enough and Shell and Pennzoil and Hunt Brothers Pizza, Paul Wolfe. What a crew chief do I have?

“I’ve got the best team. I don’t know if I’m the best driver, but I’ve got the best team, and together we’re very well-rounded and can show up when it matters the most. We’ve got a mentally tough team that can make things happen when it matters.”

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season kicks off with the return to the historic Bowman Gray Stadium for the NASCAR Clash. The non-points event is scheduled for Sunday, February 2, 2025 and will be broadcast live on FOX.

NASCAR Top-10 Power Rankings: Phoenix

By
Jeffrey Boswell
-

Note: The quotes in this article are fictional.

1. Joey Logano: Logano won Stage 1 and held off Ryan Blaney in the closing laps to win at Phoenix and claim his third Cup championship.

“I’m already excited for next season,” Logano said. “If I win the Cup championship next year, I’ll likely be known as the ‘four-time, four-eyed champion.'”

2. Ryan Blaney: Blaney won Stage 2 but came up just short in his quest for his second Cup championship, finishing second to Joey Logano.

“I was attempting to be the first back-to-back Cup champion since Jimmie Johnson in 2010,” Blaney said. “I don’t mind at all being mentioned in the same breath with Jimmie, as long as it’s the 2010 Jimmie and not the current Jimmie.”

3. William Byron: Byron finished third at Phoenix as Joey Logano won the race and the Cup championship.

“Congratulations to Joey,” Byron said. “That’s three Cup championships in the last seven years. I feel like me and all the other drivers should sue him for monopolizing championships.”

4. Tyler Reddick: Reddick finished sixth at Phoenix, coming up short in his attempt to win his first NASCAR championship.

“Winning the championship would have been a great way to stick it to NASCAR,” Reddick said. “Especially after they revoked our charter after we sued them. But now I guess we’ll see how courts rule. I doubt we’ll win, especially because we’ll be facing a handpicked judge known as the Honorable Richard Petty.”

5. Denny Hamlin: Hamlin finished 11th at Phoenix.

“It’s really been a trying year for me,” Hamlin said. “If I’ve learned one thing, it’s don’t sue NASCAR. That’s because NASCAR is omnipotent, which is probably because someone who runs NASCAR is impotent.”

6. Christopher Bell: Bell came home fifth at Phoenix.

“I think it was cool that everyone was able to say their goodbyes to Martin Truex, Jr.,” Bell said. “I apologize if I made that sound like Martin is dying; he’s not. Martin’s not going to be on death’s bed; he’s going to be on home’s couch.”

7. Alex Bowman: Bowman finished 14th at Phoenix.

“The pace car hit the barriers trying to enter pit road at the start of Stage 2,” Bowman said. “That caused a red flag. I don’t know who was driving that pace car, but I bet he handed Juan Pablo Montoya a beer and told him to hold it right before that accident.”

8. Kyle Larson: Larson finished fourth at Phoenix as three Hendrick Motorsports cars finished in the top 8.

“It’s been a long season,” Larson said. “And I plan on having a quiet off-season. Which means I plan to do a lot of SIM racing and hope I can be quiet.”

9. Chase Elliott: Elliott finished eight at Phoenix, posting his 19th top 10 of the year.

“Noah Gragson’s No. 10 car has ‘Nitro Circus’ sponsorship,'” Elliott said. “I’m not really sure what that ‘Nitro Circus’ is referring to, but back at the Dawsonville Pool Room, ‘Nitro Circus’ is what happens when someone gets hold of some dental anesthesia and shares it with everyone at the bar.”

10. Martin Truex, Jr.: Truex started on the pole at Phoenix and finished 17th.

“It’s gonna be tough to walk away from this sport,” Truex said. “That’s why I’m not walking; I’m driving.”

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