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Research Paper Format Made Easy: APA, MLA, and Chicago Styles

The research paper format can be as important as the content. When writing a dissertation, academic essay, or report, using the correct format style is essential in presenting one’s work to appear professional and authoritative. Of the most common formats used in academic writing, APA, MLA, and Chicago are the three most used. They each possess laws and regulations, which can intimidate one at first sight. But catching a glimpse of the contrast in general and applying them wisely, writing your research paper will be child’s play.

This book will make APA, MLA, and Chicago styles understandable to you, and this book will instruct you on tips, rules, and formatting tricks that will enable you to make your writing beautiful. If you are a student seeking assignment help or an individual seeking to improve his or her academic writing, this book will guide you through the fundamentals of each style and how to utilize them to your benefit.

What is the Organization of Research Papers?

Research paper organization is a unique process for preparing and organizing university work. It refers to how the paper should be reorganized, font usage, line space, quotes, and title location. Universities and research zones are specific about organization type, and one has to select which to use to legalize one’s work at the university level.

The Three Academic Writing Modes: APA, MLA, and Chicago

  • The three most popular modes of academic writing are APA (American Psychological Association), MLA (Modern Language Association), and Chicago. They are applied specifically and broadly to particular topics.
  • APA is traditionally applied in social sciences, i.e., psychology, sociology, and education.
  • MLA is traditionally applied in humanities, i.e., arts, literature, and philosophy.
  • Chicago style is prevalent in business, history, and social sciences but is also prevalent in publishing and nonfiction.

If you stick to the common features of the majority of applied styles, then you are well-placed to select the most suitable one for your area of study and prepare your research paper professionally and classily.

APA Format: A Guide That Covers It All

What Is APA Style?

APA style is utilized in the majority of research papers, particularly social science papers. APA employs the simplest and most standardized referencing and citation methods that benefit studies. APA demands a strict format in the organization of the papers, from the title page to the references.

Essential Features of APA Style

  • Title Page: APA demands that your paper include a title page with the paper’s title, your name, and the institution.
  • Abstract: Your abstract is placed on the second page. The abstract summarizes your study, usually 150 to 250 words.
  • Headings: APA uses a five-level system of headings. Headings can help organize your paper and make it more readable.
  • References: The APA component most widely utilized is the referencing system. In APA, the author-date referencing system is used, where the author’s surname and publication year are cited in parentheses as early as possible after the needed information. References are supplied generously at the end of the paper.

MLA Format: An Overview

What is MLA Style?

The MLA style is used mainly for languages and literature in general and the humanities. Compared to APA, greater emphasis is placed on the author’s name and source title than the publication date in MLA style. The MLA style is format—and reference-prescriptive but flexible in the form of the paper.

Significant Features of MLA Style

  • Title Page: No title page exists in MLA. The date, author, course title, and instructor’s name are in the center at the top of page one.
  • Headings: MLA uses shorter headings than APA, which uses a single-level heading in most research studies.
  • References and Works Cited: The Author’s last name and page number are in-text references. A “Works Cited” page is placed after the essay that numbers cited works in the paper.

Chicago Format: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is Chicago Style

Chicago style is one of the citation and bibliographic forms widely employed in book publishing, the social sciences, and even history. There are two Chicago style formats: the Author-Date and the Notes and Bibliography styles. The social sciences use the Author-Date format, whereas the humanities use the Notes and Bibliography format.

Key Features of Chicago Style

Title Page: In Chicago style, a title page, on which your paper title, institution, and name must be emphasized, is obligatory.

  • Headings: The Chicago style also follows a free-floating headings system where authors are free to place headings with varying levels anywhere they desire. Chicago style is not elaborate with many rules but once the headings are already provided; however, authors also enjoy the freedom to change the headings according to convenience.
  • Citations and Bibliography: Chicago citations are lenient. The Notes and Bibliography system employs footnotes or endnotes, while the Author-Date system employs parenthetical citations, such as APA.

Mistakes to Avoid When Formatting a Research Paper

Career students are no exception to mistakes since they structure their papers. Some of the things that one should avoid include:

  • Incorrect Citation Style: Mixing citation styles (e.g., using MLA in-text citations and an APA reference list) can confuse your readers. Always double-check that your citations match the style you’ve chosen.
  • Failure to Follow Margins and Spacing: Always ensure that your paper is double-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. These details can be easily overlooked, but they make a big difference in the overall presentation of your work.
  • Incorrectly Formatted References: Reference errors are the most frequent mistakes to commit in a research paper. When writing an APA, MLA, or Chicago paper, ensure that your references are well-formatted and consistently applied.

Conclusion

Assignment help is significant in terms of making your paper scholarly, readable, and acceptable. A slightly stricter adherence to APA, MLA, or Chicago will make your research paper scholarly, legible, and sufficient. You’re a new writer or a prospective writer scholar, but making structure distinctions and putting them according to requirements will significantly differ in the context of good work.

If you’re amazed at the complexity of writing your research paper, do not worry. There are several sites and companies that you may approach to help you, enabling you to write a paper in competition with the best minds within your class of academic capability.

By mastering the rules of APA, MLA, and Chicago formats, you’ll be well on your way to crafting research papers that are both informative and visually appealing.

Protect & Preserve: The Key to Maintaining Your Car’s Original Appeal

Photo by Erik Mclean at pexels.com

Keeping a vehicle looking new requires consistent care and attention. Exposure to the sun, dust, and road debris can take a toll on its appearance over time. Without proper maintenance, the paint may fade, the interior can wear out, and minor damages may become more noticeable. Regular upkeep is essential to preserving both aesthetics and resale value.

Owners can prevent long-term damage by following simple protective measures and maintaining a fresh look. This guide provides essential tips to help keep a vehicle in top condition. From cleaning routines to protective treatments, these steps ensure lasting appeal and protection from everyday wear.

Wash Regularly with the Right Products

Dirt, grime, and pollutants can accumulate quickly, leading to a dull finish. Frequent washing helps remove harmful substances before they cause stains or damage. However, using the right cleaning materials is just as important as washing. Harsh soaps or rough sponges can create scratches, making the surface look worn. It’s best to use a mild automotive shampoo, a microfiber mitt, and a soft drying towel. Rinsing thoroughly before washing prevents dirt particles from causing swirl marks. Regular cleaning, at least once a week, helps maintain a polished look and prevents buildup that could be harder to remove later.

Invest in Professional Window Tinting for UV Protection

Direct sunlight can cause fading, not just on the exterior but also inside the car. The heat and UV rays accelerate wear on upholstery, dashboards, and other surfaces. Over time, this exposure leads to a tired and outdated appearance, reducing overall value. Blocking out harmful rays is a smart way to protect against sun damage. High end tinting reduces glare, minimizes heat, and protects the interior from fading. Professionally installed tints, like those offered by New Image, ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting durability. Their high-quality films comply with legal requirements while enhancing both style and comfort.

Apply a High-Quality Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Even with careful driving, scratches and chips are hard to avoid. Road debris, minor impacts, and harsh weather conditions can leave permanent marks. A protective layer helps safeguard against these elements, reducing the risk of visible damage. Paint protection film (PPF) is a clear, self-healing shield applied to vulnerable areas. It absorbs small impacts and prevents dirt from embedding into the paint. This film is especially useful for frequently used cars or those driven on highways, where debris exposure is higher.

Wax and Seal for Long-Term Shine

Waxing is a simple but effective way to maintain a glossy surface. It provides a protective layer that repels dirt and water, reducing the chances of staining. Without this barrier, contaminants settle easily, making the finish appear dull. Using a quality wax or paint sealant every few months helps maintain a fresh look. Sealants offer longer-lasting protection than traditional waxes, making them ideal for those who prefer less frequent applications. When applied correctly, these products enhance shine and keep surfaces protected.

Park Smart: Avoid Environmental Damage

Where a vehicle is parked plays a big role in its long-term appearance. Direct exposure to the sun, tree sap, bird droppings, and harsh weather can all contribute to wear. Leaving it in an open area without protection speeds up aging, leading to faded paint and other visible damage. Whenever possible, park in shaded spots or a garage. If shade isn’t available, using a high-quality cover can help reduce exposure to harmful elements. Taking small precautions like these can make a significant difference in preserving the original look.

Keep the Interior Clean and Conditioned

The exterior isn’t the only part that needs regular upkeep. Interior surfaces also suffer from dirt buildup, spills, and sun exposure. Dust can accumulate in vents and crevices, while stains on seats and carpets can become difficult to remove if left untreated. Over time, neglecting the inside of a vehicle makes it look older than it is. Vacuuming regularly and wiping down surfaces with appropriate cleaners helps maintain a fresh look. Leather seats should be conditioned to prevent cracking, while fabric upholstery benefits from stain-resistant treatments. Using sunshades or window tints can also help reduce interior wear caused by UV rays.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Improper Cleaning Techniques

Not all cleaning products are safe for use on a vehicle’s surfaces. Some household detergents contain chemicals that strip away protective coatings, leaving paint vulnerable to damage. Similarly, rough sponges or dirty cloths can create fine scratches that dull the finish. To avoid these issues, always use automotive-specific cleaning products. A microfiber towel is ideal for drying, as it prevents streaks and swirl marks. Pressure washers should be used with caution—too much force can remove protective layers or push water into areas that are not meant to be exposed.

Maintain Wheels and Tires for a Polished Look

Wheels and tires play a big role in a vehicle’s overall appearance. Even a clean exterior won’t look as impressive if they are covered in dirt and brake dust. Over time, neglecting them can also lead to corrosion or cracking, reducing their lifespan. Using a dedicated wheel cleaner helps break down dirt without damaging the finish. Tires should be conditioned to prevent drying out, which can cause cracks. Regular maintenance enhances appearance and improves safety by ensuring tires remain in good condition.

Repair Scratches and Chips Before They Worsen

Minor scratches and rock chips may not seem like a big problem at first, but they can quickly lead to rust if left untreated. Moisture and dirt settle into these small imperfections, causing further deterioration. If ignored, what starts as a small blemish can turn into costly repairs. Touch-up paint can help cover minor scratches, while more serious damage may require professional polishing or paint correction. Regularly inspecting for imperfections and addressing them early prevents long-term issues. Keeping a vehicle in top shape is easier when problems are fixed as soon as they appear.

Schedule Regular Professional Detailing Services

Even with routine maintenance, professional detailing provides deeper cleaning and protection. Over time, everyday washing may not be enough to remove embedded contaminants or restore fading areas. Detailing services include thorough cleaning, paint correction, and protective coatings that extend the life of the exterior and interior. Professionals use advanced techniques to achieve a flawless finish. Treatments like ceramic coating offer long-term protection, making future cleaning easier. Regular detailing ensures a well-maintained vehicle that looks newer for longer.

Preserving a vehicle’s original appeal takes effort, but the results are worth it. Regular cleaning, protective treatments, and smart parking choices all contribute to long-term maintenance. By following these steps, owners can prevent premature wear and keep their investment looking fresh. Taking preventive measures provides extra security against damage. Whether it’s shielding against UV rays, preventing scratches, or maintaining interior quality, small actions make a big difference. Staying consistent with these care tips ensures a polished and well-maintained vehicle for years to come.

O’Ward Out Front in First Day of Sebring Test

SEBRING, Fla. (Monday, Feb. 17, 2025) – Pato O’Ward was quickest overall as the countdown to the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season accelerated Feb. 17 during the first of two days of a Group Test at Sebring International Raceway.

O’Ward led the overall time charts with a top lap of 52.3470 seconds during the morning session in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet on the 1.67-mile “short course” at the historic circuit in Central Florida. The 26 participating drivers were separated into morning and afternoon groups, with each receiving four hours of track time.

“Oh, man, it’s the best feeling in the world; it’s the best job in the world,” O’Ward said. “I was so excited to come back to Sebring and get into an INDYCAR SERIES car, getting to work with the engineers again. It definitely feels like home, and it’s a second family to me. So always excited to get rolling.”

Marcus Armstrong was second overall with the quickest time in the afternoon session, 52.3675, in the No. 60 SiriusXM Honda of his Meyer Shank Racing teammate Felix Rosenqvist. The Swede was ill with a fever and didn’t participate in testing today.

“In the end, we limited the running on the 60 car to save tires for Felix, but I feel really fresh,” Armstrong said. “Feel like I haven’t done anything. Feel like I could do it all again. So happy that I’m not tired after doing so many laps.”

The time sheets showed there was no clear advantage in track and weather conditions during either of the two sessions. Three of the five quickest times came in the morning, two in the afternoon. The top 10 times overall were split evenly between the two groups.

Two-time defending and three-time series champion Alex Palou was third overall at 52.4948 from the morning session in the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Honda. Conor Daly produced a strong afternoon session in the No. 78 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet, ending up fourth overall at 52.5931.

“We were fast all day in our group,” Daly said. “So, that’s really encouraging. We made a lot of progress with a lot of changes that we wanted to get through. And that’s what this testing is for. It’s so important. To be fast and at the front, that’s our goal every day.”

Christian Lundgaard rounded out the top five at 52.6626 in the No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, as he helped the team put two cars in the top five. Lundgaard joined Arrow McLaren after driving for the last three seasons for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

Arrow McLaren wasn’t the only team flexing its muscle in the Florida sunshine. Juncos Hollinger Racing, one of the smaller teams in the series, put two cars in the top six when Sting Ray Robb ended up sixth overall at 52.7761 while running in the morning session in the team’s No. 77 Chevrolet. Robb joined Juncos Hollinger after driving last season for AJ Foyt Racing.

There was one incident with contact. Nolan Siegel was unhurt in the afternoon session after hitting a barrier at the exit of Turn 7 in his No. 6 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, which suffered moderate damage to the right side and rear of the car.

Drivers combined to turn 1,311 laps between the two sessions. But one driver whose track time was limited was six-time series champion Scott Dixon, who turned only two laps in the afternoon in his No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda due to a mechanical problem.

The 2025 season opens Sunday, March 2 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida (noon ET, FOX, FOX Deportes, INDYCAR Radio Network).

Aric Almirola returns for nine-race Xfinity campaign with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025

Photo by Ron Olds for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Aric Almirola will return to Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) for a nine-race NASCAR Xfinity Series campaign in 2025.

The 40-year-old Almirola from Tampa, Florida, will be piloting JGR’s No. 19 Toyota Supra entry sponsored by Young Life, beginning this upcoming weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Seth Chavka will be serving as the team’s crew chief.

The news comes as Almirola is coming off a 14-race Xfinity campaign with JGR in 2024, where he made 12 starts in the No. 20 Toyota entry while his remaining two starts occurred in the No. 19 Toyota entry. During the 14-race stretch, he swept both Martinsville Speedway events and won at Kansas Speedway in September during the Playoffs, all of which occurred while driving the No. 20 entry. He also recorded eight top-five results, nine top-10 results, a career-high 415 laps led, and an average-finishing result of 9.2. Ultimately, Almirola placed JGR’s No. 20 team to a runner-up result in the 2024 Xfinity owner’s standings as he strives to contend for more victories and contend for an owner’s title in 2025.

“I’m excited to have this opportunity to get behind the wheel again and have Young Life represented on the car with me,” Almirola said in a released statement. “I know Young Life was a central focus in the life of my friend J.D. Gibbs and it means so much to me to have this opportunity to bring awareness to the great work they do introducing Christ to young people all over the world.”

Almirola made his first Xfinity career start with JGR at Richmond Raceway in 2006. Since then, he has made a total of 118 career starts in the series through 13 years. Within his 118 starts in the series, Almirola has notched a total of seven victories, five poles, 22 top-five results, 48 top-10 results, 805 laps led, and an average-finishing result of 14.6.

In 2007, Almirola, who was driving for JGR, was credited with his first Xfinity career victory at the Milwaukee Mile despite relinquishing his seat early to Denny Hamlin, only for the former to be credited with the win due to starting the event. After departing JGR at the season’s conclusion, the Floridian would spend 10 of the next 16 years competing between eight different organizations in the Xfinity circuit, primarily on part-time campaigns. His lone full-time Xfinity campaign was in 2011, where he finished in fourth place in the final driver’s standings while driving for JR Motorsports.

After stepping away from full-time Cup Series competition at the conclusion of the 2023 season, Almirola ultimately reunited with JGR for a part-time Xfinity campaign in 2024. By then, he had campaigned in four full-time Cup seasons with Richard Petty Motorsports and six at Stewart-Haas Racing.

To go along with his success in the Xfinity circuit, Almirola has accumulated three victories through 460 Cup starts and two victories through 78 Craftsman Truck Series starts. Between the latter two series, he notched a career-best runner-up result in the 2010 Truck driver’s standings and made five appearances in the Cup Playoffs (2014, 2018-21).

“I am thrilled for Young Life and JGR to be partnering this season,” Newt Crenshaw, president/CEO of Young Life, said. “It’s Young Life’s goal and ministry to reach and know kids by name, engage them with fun and adventure, and introduce them to Jesus Christ. This partnership is playing a part in making that happen, as we’ll be poised to reach more kids, make a lasting impact, and show them the love and excitement that both racing and faith can offer.”

“The ministry of Young Life has played a key role in my life and my entire family’s lives and was also a huge part of my friendship with J.D. Gibbs,” Dave Alpern, president of Joe Gibbs Racing, added. “To see that ministry highlighted on one of our race cars is an incredible blessing to me and everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing.”

For the 2025 season, Almirola becomes the fourth competitor confirmed to pilot JGR’s No. 19 “all-star” Toyota entry. Justin Bonsignore, who piloted the No. 19 entry during this past weekend’s season opener at Daytona International Speedway, will return for eight additional events, beginning at Homestead-Miami Speedway in mid-March. Chase Briscoe will drive the No. 19 entry at Charlotte Motor Speedway in late May during Memorial Day weekend while Christopher Bell will compete at Darlington Raceway in early April.

Additional details of Almirola’s remaining eight venues, along with the rest of JGR’s No. 19 driver lineup, remain to be determined as the 2025 NASCAR season commences.

Aric Almirola’s first start of the 2025 Xfinity Series season is scheduled to commence this Saturday, February 22, at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Bennett Transportation & Logistics 250. The event’s broadcast time is slated to begin at 5 p.m. ET on the CW Network.

Kyle Busch Returns to Spire Motorsports for Five Race NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Effort

Series All-Time Winner to Defend Atlanta Trophy Aboard Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Entry

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (February 17, 2025) – Two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion and the winningest driver in NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series history is set to return to Spire Motorsports for a five-race campaign in 2025, beginning with this weekend’s FR8 208 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Busch, 39, earned a pair of CRAFTSMAN Truck Series wins for Spire Motorsports in 2024 and is the defending winner of the FR8 208. In addition to his victory last February at the high-speed 1.54-mile suburban Atlanta quad-oval, Busch also collected the checkered flag last April in the SpeedyCash.com 250 at Texas Motor Speedway.

“With my long-standing relationship with Jeff (Dickerson) and having a lot of my former employees still working on the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series teams at Spire Motorsports, it’s cool to be able to hop back in their Chevy Silverados five times and work towards filling those trophy cases,” said Busch. “I still really enjoy being a part of the process of evaluating their equipment and being a mentor to the young drivers in Spire’s lineup. It’s fun trying to help speed up their learning curve by passing on a few pointers here and there.”

Once again, Busch will work with crew chief Brian Pattie and Spire Motorsports No. 7 team for a pair of races including Atlanta and later this season at Charlotte Motor Speedway (May 23). He will also see time behind the wheel of the team’s No. 07 Chevy at North Wilkesboro Speedway (May 17), Nashville Superspeedway (May 30) and finally Watkins Glen International (August 8). Crew chief Allen Hart calls the No. 07 team’s efforts in 2025.

“My schedule will consist of some tracks where I’ve had a lot of success in the Truck Series, like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville but also two tracks that I’ve never raced at in a truck – North Wilkesboro and Watkins Glen,” added Busch. “So, I’m looking forward to hopefully adding a couple more tracks to the list of places where I’ve won across my Truck Series career.”

Busch is one of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR’s modern history. The Las Vegas native advanced to the Championship 4 for the Cup Series in five consecutive seasons from 2015-2019 and has won some of NASCAR’s most prestigious races, including the Brickyard 400 (2015 and 2016), Southern 500 (2008) and Coca-Cola 600 (2018). Busch enters the 2025 season with 63 wins in NASCAR’s premier division and is one of only two active multi-time champions.

In addition to his two Cup Series titles, he won the 2009 NASCAR Xfinity Series championship and is the all-time wins leader in that series (102) as well as the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (66). Busch also ranks first all-time among Truck Series drivers with an average finish of 6.5 and second all-time with 8,050 laps led.

Busch has made 58 starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series. In 28 races in Cup Series competition, the father of two has logged two wins,10 top-five and 15 top-10 finishes. His resume includes three Xfinity Series wins in 14 starts, 10 top fives and 11 top 10s. In 14 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at the iconic Hampton, Ga., venue, Busch has compiled two poles, seven wins, 10 top-five and 11 top-10 showings.

“I’m thankful to have Kyle back with our NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team this year,” said Spire Motorsports co-owner Jeff Dickerson. “Having one of the best drivers in NASCAR history in our equipment and in our shop makes everyone better. He won a couple last year with us and we all know when he straps in that we have one goal and that is to add to the trophy case in the shop that, ironically, he built. I think people sometimes overlook how good Kyle is working with young drivers and his ability to teach them. The standard he sets is one that both Rajah (Caruth) and Andres (Perez de Lara) can benefit from.”

The FR8 208 from Atlanta Motor Speedway will be televised live on FS1 Saturday, Feb. 22, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The second of 25 races on the 2025 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

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

In 2025, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team will also field the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and the No. 77 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series in select events.

Luke Fenhaus secures multi-race Truck campaign with ThorSport Racing in 2025

Photo by Adam Lovelace for SpeedwayMedia.com.

ThorSport Racing announced that Luke Fenhaus will be returning to compete in multiple NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events behind the wheel of the organization’s No. 66 Ford F-150 entry in 2025.

Fenhaus’ part-time Truck campaign will commence this upcoming weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway and he will be receiving support from crew chief Doug George.

The announcement comes as Fenhaus, the 2022 CARS Pro Late Model Tour champion from Wausau, Wisconsin, made his first three Truck career starts with ThorSport this past season. During his three-race stint, he recorded two top-10 results and notched a career-best seventh-place finish at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in July. He was also one of four competitors to pilot ThorSport’s No. 66 Ford entry throughout the 2024 season, with the entry being fielded in 19 of 23-scheduled events.

Fenhaus, who was a part of the Kulwicki Driver Development program, previously achieved championships in the Alive for 5 Super Late Model Series, the Dells Icebreaker and the Slinger Nationals, all of which occurred in 2021. In 2023, the Wisconsin native campaigned on a full-time basis in the ARCA Menards Series East division for Pinnacle Racing Group. Throughout the season’s eight-race schedule, he notched his first two career victories and finished in the runner-up spot in the final driver’s standings.

This past weekend, ThorSport Racing fielded the No. 66 Ford entry for veteran Johnny Sauter at Daytona International Speedway. During the event, Sauter finished in 17th place despite qualifying in 10th place.

With full details of his 2025 schedule remaining to be determined, Luke Fenhaus’ first start of the 2025 Craftsman Truck Series season is scheduled to occur this upcoming Saturday, February 22, at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Fr8 208. The event’s broadcast time is scheduled to commence at 1:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

Front Row Motorsports: Daytona 500 Race Report (Noah Gragson, Todd Gilliland, Zane Smith)

Noah Gragson | Todd Gilliland | Zane Smith
Daytona 500 Race Report
Daytona 500 Overview
Date: February 16th, 2025
Event: Race 2 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Daytona International Speedway (2.5-miles)
Length of Race: 201 Laps over 3 hours, 53 minutes, and 26 seconds.

FRM Finish:

● Noah Gragson (Started 32nd, Finished 28th / Running, completed 198 of 201 laps)
● Todd Gilliland (Started 14th, Finished 27th / Running, completed 199 of 201laps)
● Zane Smith: (Started 37th, Finished 36th / DNF, completed 108 of 201 laps)

Noah Gragson Key Takeaways

Noah Gragson made his first visit to the Daytona International Speedway for Front Row Motorsports (FRM) in the No. 4 Ford Mustang Dark Horse on Sunday night.

Gragson qualified 32nd for the event. Gragson finished 29th in Stage One and 21st in Stage Two.

Through pit strategy and drafting with other Fords, Gragson made his way to the front on the pack and controlling the race from within the top-10. With 15 laps remaining, Gragson was collected in an on-track incident which resulted in damage to his No. 4 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Crew chief Drew Blickensderfer and the team made the necessary repairs to finish the race.

“We had a really fast car until we got caught up in the wreck,” said Gragson. “The guys did what they could to get me back out there. We’re going to take what we learned in Daytona and keep building and fine tuning the little things as we head to Atlanta.”

Todd Gilliland Key Takeaways

Todd Gilliland made his fourth appearance in the Daytona 500, qualifying 14th for the event, marking his sixth top-15 qualifying result on superspeedways.

Gilliland finished 15th in Stage One and 5th in Stage two, earning valuable stage points in Stage Two.

Drafting with other Fords and strategy calls made by interim crew chief Kevyn Rebolledo, Gilliland showed off his plate racing skills throughout the event, competing heavily with in the top-10 and top five. With 15 laps remaining in the race, Gilliland was collected in an on-track incident resulting in a broken right rear suspension.

“It’s always disappointing when we have finishes like this, but sometimes that’s just how these superspeedway races go,” said Gilliland. “The team brought a really fast No. 34 Love’s Travel Stops Ford Mustang Dark Horse and we were in contention, but we just got caught up in a wreck and weren’t able to get our laps back. Regardless, I’m looking forward to Atlanta next week, the speed is there for sure and I think we will be able to contend.”

Zane Smith Key Takeaways

After cutting his right front tire and suffering damage in his Daytona Duel, Zane Smith qualified 37th for the Daytona 500.

Smith didn’t let the qualifying effort hinder him from making his way to the front, getting as high as P2 and competing within the top-20.

With three laps remaining in Stage One, Smith was involved in an accident, suffering damage to his No. 38 Speedy Cash Ford Mustang Dark Horse. The team made the necessary repairs to get back on track but ultimately retired from the race.

“Definitely not how we wanted our race to go, but I am really proud of this 38 group,” said Smith. “From cutting a tire in our Duel to getting in a wreck in the race, we had almost everything go wrong for us this weekend and Ryan (Bergenty) and the team never gave up. I have a good team supporting me, and I am really looking forward to what we accomplish.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Craftsman Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 Craftsman Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 34 and No. 38 Craftsman Truck Series teams from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Josh Berry’s Tough Break at Daytona

Josh Berry,

The 67th running of the Daytona 500 got off to a memorable start for the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team as the Wood Brothers team owners served as Honorary Starters with Eddie Wood waving the green flag to start the race. However, the rest of the race was disappointing as Josh Berry was swept up in a multi-car crash on Lap 63 and wound up finishing 37th.

Berry, who had a fast Mustang Dark Horse throughout the preliminary events at Daytona, started 29th and was running 28th when rain halted the race after 11 laps. After a lengthy delay, drivers returned to the track and ran 11 laps under the caution before a brief shower led to another stoppage. Finally, the skies cleared and the race got under way for good.

With three laps remaining in the first Stage, a wreck unfolded just ahead of Berry and the Motorcraft/Quick Lane Mustang. He initially avoided the spinning cars, until one of them slid up the track in front of him and made contact. There was substantial damage to the left front of the Motorcraft Mustang, and Berry headed to pit road for repairs to the cooling system, suspension, front splitter and fender. Berry returned to the track, met minimum speed and got back on the lead lap, but his mechanical problems weren’t over and he went to the garage for repairs. Berry returned to the track 39 laps in arrears, but returned to the garage for good after completing 105 laps.

Eddie Wood said that despite the disappointing outcome of the race, he and his family will long remember the reaction to their selection as Honorary Starters for the 500.

“We all were humbled by the respect shown to us by the fans, the people from NASCAR and the Hall of Fame and by [track president] Frank Kelleher and his staff,” Wood said. “And it was a great honor for me to get to throw the green flag, especially knowing some of the people, including my dad, who had done it before me. Despite our bad luck in the race, there were a lot of positive aspects of this trip to Daytona, and we’re leaving here optimistic about the rest of the season.”

Berry and the Wood Brothers team now head to Atlanta Motor Speedway for next Sunday’s Ambetter Health 400.

About Motorcraft®
Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to under hood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center
Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.”

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 177,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

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

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

Prospects bright for new Cadillac alliance

Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA two-car Hypercar program prepares for Qatar

DETROIT (Feb. 17, 2025) – Three months removed from the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season-ending race as competitors, a new adventure is on the horizon for Cadillac Racing and JOTA Sport.

JOTA Sport enters its first season as a WEC Hypercar works team with Cadillac Racing following two decades of success as a privateer, while Cadillac Racing expands to a two-car program (Nos. 12, 38 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA) moving into its third season of WEC competition.

While there’s much to learn – about each other, the circuits, the Dallara LMDh platform powered by the purpose-built 5.5-liter DOHC V8 engine – the prospects are bright for the Anglo-American alliance entering the February 28 opener at Lusail International Circuit in Qatar.

First up is the February 21-22 Prologue on the 5.38-kilometer, 16-turn course.

“We can’t wait to see what we can do together this year,” said David Clark, co-founder and director of JOTA Sport, which is celebrating its 25th year.

An experienced and championship-winning roster will lead the charge during the eight-race schedule through November that includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Third-year Cadillac Racing WEC driver Alex Lynn, who drove to the pole at Fuji Speedway last season, will team with Norman Nato and Will Stevens, who co-drove to victory at Spa-Francorchamps in 2024, in the No. 12 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA entry.

Cadillac Racing veterans Earl Bamber and Sebastien Bourdais are paired with 2009 Formula One champion Jenson Button in the No. 38 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R.

Qatar interview opportunities

A different view

Watch the February 28 race via the Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA in-car camera livestream. Tune in at 6 am. ET/2 p.m. AST HERE.

“During pre-season testing, we’ve seen an incredible team spirit already build between our drivers and their crews and this is extremely encouraging but we don’t take anything for granted,” Clark added.

Last year in the 10-hour race in Qatar, the No. 12 Hypercar led the team with a runner-up finish after qualifying third. Bamber, Bourdais and Lynn co-drove to fourth place in the No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R, but the result was voided because of a technical infraction.

Season highlights included the victory at Spa and Hertz Team JOTA earning its second successive Hypercar World Championship. In addition to its maiden WEC pole in Japan and advancing to Hyperpole in six of the eight races, Cadillac Racing recorded a best finish of fourth at Circuit of The Americas.

Now the successful programs will tackle the challenging courses and Hypercar competition together.

What they’re saying

No. 12 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R

Alex Lynn: “I’m excited to get the season started. It’s hasn’t been that long of an off-season, but I think we’ve made some good progress. JOTA is settling in really well. I’ve got two new teammates in Norman and Will, who are really good guys. I think as a trio we make a really strong lineup. I’m excited to feel the sun on my face; it’s been a long British winter. It’s a fresh start but with the same car. That’s a cool one to still be driving the same car but with a different team. I think we can have good expectations. Qatar is a track that suited our car last year and everyone is starting from zero, which is always fun.”

Norman Nato: “I’m really looking forward to kicking off the season in Qatar, our first time as a team with Cadillac. The Prologue is always a good opportunity to get to grips with the package, test our limits a little and it will give us a further opportunity to work together as a team — both old and new. We know we won’t be at our best yet due to the relatively short amount of time we’ve had to prepare but we are all really motivated to make steps forward every time we hit the track. I really can’t wait to this new chapter started.”

Will Stevens: “Qatar is a track that’s actually quite different from all from all the others because it’s so smooth. It’s very high speed. I’d say it’s a very different characteristic to a lot of other places. I think also for us as a team going into our first race with Cadillac there’s going to be a lot of new things and processes to learn as quickly as we can. But obviously, that’s what we’ve been working on over the past few months — to try and make sure we’re as best prepared as we can. I can’t wait to get the Prologue started. It’ll be nice to have a few days under our belt with our full car crew, working with both cars and a team. I just started to build a big picture of what we want to work on ahead of the race week, so I think for us it’s an extremely important few days. I think going to a circuit that we will be racing on means we can be much more focused on track-specific things, so a lot of work to get for in the Prologue for sure, but we’re ready for that.”

No. 38 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R

Earl Bamber: “I think our off-season tests were productive. I think what JOTA brings to the project is really exciting. They’ve got great knowledge of the WEC in general, a great team, so I think everyone’s really excited and eager to get out on track again. After our Abu Dhabi test and then going to Qatar, everyone is eyes forward with a lot of excitement and enthusiasm and a lot of expectation to do well as well. We know the car is quick there and it’s one of the tracks that suits it. We’re hoping that with the injection of knowledge of JOTA we can raise our game on the tracks where we’ve got a little bit of low hanging fruit and overall we have a have a strong season. I think it is a stouter effort, and I think everyone’s got a lot of high expectations.”

Sebastien Bourdais: “Quite excited to get the season started. I’m happy to join Earl and Jenson in the 38. I think it’s two great crews and we all get along really well. We have a lot of potential to extract out of the system. It’s a new organization and a lot to learn. Thankfully, there is the Prologue prior to the race and we’ll use it to dial ourselves in and get race ready. Looking forward to the challenge with JOTA and hopefully we can put the Cadillac V-Series.R to the front and get the season underway in the best way possible.”

Jenson Button: “I can’t wait. Looking forward to getting on the circuit that I have fond memories of from last year. We have to build on that with the Cadillac. Their performance last year seemed to be very good. This is such a great team, bringing two different families together being Cadillac and JOTA. Already, you can see how well everyone is working together including drivers. We bring a lot of experience, a lot of excitement and a lot of experience working with JOTA and with Cadillac. I think we can do something very special this year. We want to start on a high; we don’t want to build up to it. We should be hitting the ground running in Qatar and racing for the win.”

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

Daytona Recap – RFK Racing Showcases Speed and Grit at Daytona 500

Buescher: 10th, Keselowski: 26th, Preece 32nd in Daytona 500.”

Daytona Beach, FL (February 16, 2025) – After an interrupted start to Sunday’s Daytona 500 due to intermittent rain showers, Chris Buescher thundered his way to a strong top-10 finish for Roush Fenway Keselowski (RFK) Racing. Teammate Ryan Preece, in his official debut for RFK, unleashed impressive speed, leading twice for 6 laps. Brad Keselowski displayed early promise, charging from the tail of the field to finish second in the race’s first stage before suffering damage late in the race.

6 Brad Keselowski – RECAP

Blistering early speed and pure determination defined Brad Keselowski’s race in Daytona, but misfortune ultimately hindered his efforts, leaving the No. 6 Cottonelle Ford with a 26th-place finish.

Determined to overcome a series of challenges, Brad Keselowski turned in a gutsy effort in Sunday’s race. Driving a backup car, which had entered the Daytona 500 with the fastest time in final practice, Keselowski fought his way from the rear to nearly win the race’s first stage, finishing second.

As the race wore on, the intensity increased. While navigating traffic, Keselowski narrowly avoided an early incident where several drivers crashed. However, that luck did not hold throughout the race as he sustained damage during two late-race incidents. The No. 6 team made repairs on pit road, and Keselowski was able to complete the race.

17 Chris Buescher – RECAP

Chris Buescher skillfully worked the draft, avoided multiple incidents, and secured a strong top-10 finish in the No. 17 Fastenal Ford at the Daytona 500.

Showing great patience and teamwork, Buescher sought out his RFK teammates on multiple occasions Sunday, helping push them in the draft. Most notably, he helped Ryan Preece capture the lead at lap 80. The Fastenal Ford could work the middle and top grooves with ease but needed more help to work the bottom lane.

As the laps wound down, Buescher navigated through spinning cars, avoiding multiple crashes. He recorded a solid 10th-place finish but wasn’t satisfied.

“It was just a race that didn’t play out like we needed it to. We practiced a lot of things as a group and got really efficient at it in practice,” said Buescher. “We had a ton of potential in this race if it would have started at the right time and had played out a little bit differently.”

60 Ryan Preece – RECAP

Ryan Preece’s No. 60 BuildSubmarines.com Ford was among the fastest cars in this year’s Daytona 500. The Berlin, Connecticut driver led the field twice Sunday for a combined 6 laps before ultimately having his day ended when Christopher Bell’s spinning race car collided with Preece, sending him airborne. Preece was taken to the care center and released without injury after the spectacular crash.

Preece started the day with a patient approach, studying the draft and biding his time. By lap 75, though, he had hooked up with teammate Chris Buescher in the draft and found himself leading the pack by lap 80 and again on lap 98.

Preece, however, would not get the finish he deserved after his car received a direct hit from Bell’s damaged machine. Preece’s crash ended what was a very promising day with a 32nd-place finish.

“I was in line, pushing, and when you get down to the end of these races, we are all just really aggressive because you have to be aggressive. It’s just the position we’re in. We had a really fast BuildSubmarines.com Ford Mustang, and it’s just frustrating when you can’t do anything with it,” said Preece.

Up Next
The Atlanta Motor Speedway: Sunday, February 23, 2025 @ 3:00pm FOX Sports

About RFK Racing
RFK Racing, in its 38th season in 2025, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, with NASCAR Champion Brad Keselowski and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988, and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass 300 wins and capture eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, is the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Champion. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content, and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit rfkracing.com and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.