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TEAM CHEVY NASCAR DAYTONA 500 MEDIA DAY: William Byron Quotes

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Official Release
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NASCAR CUP SERIES
DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY
DAYTONA 500 MEDIA DAY
TEAM CHEVY DRIVER QUOTES
FEBRUARY 12, 2025

 William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet – DAYTONA 500 Media Day Quotes

Is the drive to win the Daytona 500 the same motivation, same desire now that you already have one?

“Yeah, I do. I have more joy coming down here than I did before. I have more passion and excitement for this race than I did before. I feel like having experienced it the way it was last year really changed my perspective on the race as a whole in a good way, obviously. I feel that’s created some more motivation to get another one. This race, it’s a lifetime achievement. It’s something people reference everywhere you go. It’s something that the first time in my career I’ve had something like that. It makes it cool, it makes it more special, because you can tell people care about the race.”

What are the things at Daytona as a driver you can control?

“I think there is so many aspects. The way that you position yourself at the end of the race. It starts tonight. You can get yourself on the front row, and that gives you a great opportunity to not have to stress about the Duels. And then if you’re not locked in on the front row, you have to race the Duels and understand what your car has and try to keep it in one piece. It’s a process throughout the week, then obviously, Sunday is about positioning yourself as the stages go along and really like the last 20 laps of the race essentially. It’s just a process. You really can’t think too far ahead. I’m not thinking about Sunday at all yet. Just trying to get through tonight and check the boxes that I need to to have a good qualifying lap.”

As the track surface gets older, has handling become more of a premium since you started at the Cup level?

“Yes and no. This car has a lot of drag, so with that comes lower speeds and more downforce. This car doesn’t really require as much handling, but it’s still going to matter. If we were back on the old surface or with the old Gen 6 car, yeah, we’d be slipping around quite a bit. This car is pretty stuck to the track here. It’s all relative, though. I think that the cars are going to get more and more trimmed out as the teams get smarter, so we’re probably going to have something a bit more unique here than we’ve seen in years past with the way it handles.”

How does the lack of practice here affect you?

“It doesn’t affect us at all. Practice here is like such a façade, really. You’re not around enough cars There’s not enough energy in the pack to really know what the car is going to do. The Duels are your best practice. That’s when everyone is at ten-tenths. The thing about practice at a speedway is like, especially if you’re going out drafting, guys are pulling on and off the track, so the energy is changing every lap. That’s not really conducive to what the race is like. The Duels are our best chance to learn, and then really like maybe some laps on Friday, you might learn here or there. But you’re going to learn mostly in the Duels and obviously, in the race on Sunday.”

Is it kind of cool to race against a four-time Indy 500 champion (in Helio Castroneves)?

“It is sweet. The funniest thing about that is I look over next to my bus right when I got back from practice, and it’s Helio’s bus. I didn’t even realize that when I got here, but that’s pretty neat to have an Indy 500 champion like that next to you in the bus lot, and then obviously, racing on the racetrack. Yeah, it’s awesome.”

Talk about the entry list and the wide variety of drivers…

“Yeah, it shows kind of the momentum of the sport really. We went through a dip where we didn’t really have a lot of open drivers or people trying to make the race, and now we’re back to having a few more. It’s awesome. It’s good that it’s quality cars, and I’ll be excited to look and see what’s going on. I’ve got to understand the system and how it all works, because apparently one guy is locked in but I’ve got to understand who is on the bubble to watch that race when I’m not racing myself.”

Depending on where you qualifying, how much will you be aware of other open cars trying to qualify?

“I don’t have any awareness of that. For me, if I’m on the racetrack, I’m just going to try and win. If they’re racing in the other Duel or if I get out of the car, I’ll look at it.”

Having such a marathon week to start the season, does that help with the suddenness of the grueling schedule?

“It does. I honestly look forward to this week. It’s kind of like a little bit of a Spring Break. You’re down here forever, and you have obviously a lot of obligations, but I enjoy it because it’s a nice lead in versus The Clash. It’s so sudden, and you’re in such a different environment. You don’t have the garages or your hauler. This race gives you a chance to kind of settle in, get all of your stuff acclimated, and then you hit the road after that.”

Is there anything cool you get now rather than before you won the Daytona 500?

“I think just the trophy itself is probably the coolest thing. The side effect I always thought about was all the media you had to do and what that would feel like, but it’s honestly been great. It’s not bad, but just the trophy itself is such a historic trophy and it’s unlike any other one I’ve had.”

Is there anything you can learn from this race and take to Atlanta?

“I don’t know. I don’t feel like the answer for me is no because I feel like here, you really have to… it’s a totally different positioning race. Atlanta has that hybrid effect where you have a little bit of drafting but you also have lifting, and it’s kind of that five-fifty style mile-and-a-half race.”

Does your confidence go up on speedways after winning this race?

“Not exactly, no. I feel like for me, it was honestly the success we had after that throughout the year on drafting tracks where I felt like we were constantly up to the front. It wasn’t instant, perse, but as soon as we continued to have a good year on drafting tracks, I felt like that built some confidence.”

Talk about the case of NASCAR athletes being athletes…

“That’s a great question. I think with the way tech is now, like having my Whoop band on when I’m in the racecar, it’s one of the hardest workouts that I do throughout my week. Your heartrate is elevated, you’re in this kind of iso-position, which nowadays with yoga and everything people are doing, they understand how difficult that is to kind of fight the g-forces and hold yourself in that position. You’re making micro-adjustments all the time. I think that ten years ago, it was ‘Oh, drivers aren’t athletes,’ but if you’re not an athlete nowadays, you’re going to have a tough time. It’s just the nature of these cars and how rigid they’ve got, and how close the racing gets.”

What does it feel like coming back here after August?

“I feel like in the summer, it’s just kind of weird because you’re so in the middle of your season, you’re focused on that. Coming back here, being back for the (Daytona) 500 definitely feels special. Just have that excitement and genuine joy for the race. I think I’m just excited for the week.”

How much has the racing changed in the last three years here at Daytona?

“The racing has just got really tight and competitive, and everybody is sort of in a really tight gridlock. So it’s really hard to make moves. Three-wide is tough to make. I feel like you’ve got to be up towards the front. Track position is really important, and you have to be towards the front side coming down to the end. I think in the past, that was the case, but you could see a guy win from 10th on the last lap. I just don’t think that’ll happen in this package anymore.”

How do you approach the “Big One?”

“It’s just the nature of the race. I think, for me, I don’t really focus on that aspect. It’s just the nature of the event and I feel like it makes it exciting.”

With being close to the championship the past few years, how big of a deal is it to you to get started off right?

“It’s not a huge deal. I think that this season is really long. I would like for us to continue to improve. I think that’s the biggest thing. Yeah, you want to get a win in early. It takes some pressure off from the outside, but really you continue to strive for more. Sometimes you don’t see the champion get really hot until the second half of the year. Not saying that’s the right formula, but I’m just saying you’ve got to be consistent throughout the year and try to win every week. That’s our goal. We’re not really thinking about trying to make a statement or anything like that, it’s just trying to go out there and execute every week.”

How much does a really good paint scheme affect you walking up to your car? Does it affect your psyche?

“It does. You know when you’re stepping into a really nice looking racecar and something that you’re proud of. Also, the attention and the craft with my guys and how much effort they put into the racecar. It does. For me personally, it affects how I feel getting into the racecar. Obviously, once I put the helmet on, it is what it is, but I think having a good-looking racecar, having a car that your guys have put a lot of effort into, that means a lot.”

Have you thought about what a back-to-back Daytona 500 would mean to you?

“No, I don’t really think about the history. There are so many things, so many boxes to check as this week goes. Obviously, that’d be a great footnote after the race is over, but right now, there are so many things to get to that point. It’s just thinking about all of my processes to get to the end on Sunday.”

One more win gives Hendrick Motorsports the most all time. You’re known to win some big races. Where would that factor in if winning another one?

“Hendrick Motorsports has so much history as it is, and I feel like they just add in another win would be more to that. I’m excited for the week. I’m really ready to get going. I feel like all of our teams are really prepared and we’re just ready to go.”

About General Motors

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.

Toyota GAZOO Racing – NCS Daytona 500 Media Day Quotes – Christopher Bell – 02.12.25

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Official Release
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Toyota GAZOO Racing – Christopher Bell
NASCAR Cup Series Quotes

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 12, 2025) – Joe Gibbs Racing driver Christopher Bell was made available to the media on Wednesday prior to the Daytona 500.

CHRISTOPHER BELL, No. 20 DeWalt/Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry XSE, Joe Gibbs Racing

Can you talk about the practice session?

“It was definitely an awkward practice session.”

How so?
“It is just so laid back. I don’t know. Everyone was on different agendas. I don’t even really know what to think of it. It was kind of like – why are we doing this?”

Was it good to get on track to confirm that the car doesn’t have any gremlins?

“My team did. The mechanics joked around about not running practice today, but Adam (Stevens, crew chief), of course, being the leader that he is, was like we have to do this. We have to dot our i’s and cross our t’s, but for me, I had no concern. I knew that it would be completely fine.”

What does getting back on pavement last night for 200 laps do to help get your body into a rhythm?
“Well, I didn’t expect it to be long, but it ended up being a freaking Cup race length (laughter), but I mean, I think the conditioning is good. Whenever you get into June, July – you’ve been doing these races – it feels normal and it feels, I don’t want to say easier, but you know what to expect. The start of the year, certainly, Daytona is a speedway, Atlanta is a speedway now too. By the time you get to COTA, Phoenix – those are races that get your attention, so the Clash was a good acclimator and yes, last night was too.”

Can you see yourself doing any more of those short track races?

“I don’t know. It is all going to depend on the schedule. I was really excited about yesterday, being just a one-day show, being able to not spend multiple days there practicing – that was one thing I didn’t care about late model racing as a kid was just how long the events were. If the schedule works out, I would.”

What is it like to race whatever you want again?

“It is weird. (laughter). I’m taking it all in though, that is for sure.”

What is it like being able to race whatever you want again?

“I hope it keeps me sharper – the more that you race – we don’t really have any practice. There is very little seat time compared to what I’m used to, so hopefully being in the seat will help me perform on Sundays. That is what it is all about.”

What is the mindset coming into the Daytona 500?

“The Daytona 500 is a huge event. It is a huge race. Running all of my other races that I’ve got to do, everyone talks about this race. It is all about Daytona. I’m honored, and I’m thrilled, and I’m blessed to be in this opportunity to compete in another Daytona 500, but with that being said, the race itself is a lot of luck. We’ve come out on the good end of it the last couple of years now, and we will go roll the dice again. The racing has kind of homed in on the fuel conservation and strategy of how the green flag cycle works – that is going to be super important. Hopefully, we are on the winning side of it, and we are going to try to do our best to control what we can control and miss the wrecks and be away from the wrecks. It is going to be an exciting one – it always is.”

So you are okay if when we come back we don’t have practice before qualifying?

“Absolutely. I told them that this practice was just really weird because nobody – it just didn’t feel necessary. It kind of just felt like we were out there spinning our wheels a little bit.”

How do you feel about having more Toyotas to draft with?

“(speaking about Chase Briscoe) Yeah, and then he comes over here and we are going to have the most we’ve ever had. It’s not going to be a fair shake for (Chase) Briscoe. We’ve been telling him about how bad speedway racing is on the Toyota side, and now we almost have a third of the field, so that is really good. Hopefully, it means that this race will look different for us. We’ve always kind of blamed it on numbers, and now we don’t have that excuse – we are going have the numbers.”

Can you talk about your car having a little bit of a mix of sponsorship?

“Yeah, it has been good. Last year was the first year we had Interstate and DeWalt – the co-brand – we did it at Daytona and Phoenix last year, and I think this year is the same way. We will have Interstate and DeWalt at Daytona and to close the season at Phoenix. It is a really good partnership. With DeWalt and Interstate, you have to have – electric tools, you have to have batteries with it, so I’m sure they are working together to get something going.”

Can you talk about the commercial that you are in?

“I made a cameo in a commercial – big time actor over here (laughter).”

Is there some joy that you’ve been able to have being back racing other forms of cars?

“It has been refreshing. The dirt racing is so raw, and it feels like the driver makes a difference – more so on asphalt. I’ve enjoyed that, because you go asphalt racing and you feel like your hands are tied to the equipment, to the car, and dirt racing, you are able to overcome that. The good drivers usually shine.”

Do you feel any extra pressure coming to Daytona?

“I mean, not any more pressure than what it is. The Daytona 500 is the granddaddy of them all. I’m well aware of that, and I’m excited about the opportunity. We all know how this race goes, so we try to take it with a grain of salt once it is over, and certainly, preparing for it, we know that it is a big deal.”

What has it been like integrating Chase Briscoe into Joe Gibbs Racing?

“It has been awesome. Chase (Briscoe) has been a huge – I don’t know what the right word is. It has been different having Chase around and completing the four of us. Martin (Truex Jr.) – just wasn’t around very much the last couple of years. It has been fun to hear his feedback, especially after Bowman Gray. It ended up being a really good test session for him because the tendencies that we fought there, it really related towards Martinsville. I thought he brought some good insight into what our cars did well and what they did worse than his previous ride. I’m excited to see that trend continue through the year.”

How does it feel to have so many years with Joe Gibbs Racing?

“It is a dream come true. I’m so, so blessed to be in this position, driving the no. 20 car. It truly is a dream come true, and hopefully I will be in Denny’s (Hamlin) spot in a few years.”

What would it mean to you to bring a Daytona 500 win to Toyota and Joe Gibbs?

“You hit it big there. Toyota winning the Daytona 500 is a big deal. I just go back to 2016, when they ran 1,2,3 – they were in position to run 1,2,3,4 on the white flag lap. That is what we are striving to get back to. The Next Gen car has definitely changed the way that Daytona is, and the way that it races. Toyota frankly, we haven’t been performing on the superspeedways, so we are putting a big effort in trying to improve our superspeedway performance.”

About Toyota

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

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

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

THRILLING 2025 NHRA SUMMIT RACING SERIES SEASON LEADS TO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN LAS VEGAS

By
Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 12, 2025) – The standout competitors in the NHRA Summit Racing Series, the world’s largest motorsports program when it comes to racer participation, will now have the opportunity to race for a world championship in Las Vegas, as the 2025 Summit Racing E.T. Series schedule was announced today.

For the first time, winners in the Eastern Canada Division will advance for the chance to compete for a world championship in 2025. An Eastern Canada E.T. Finals took place for the first time a year ago, and now winners will advance to the NHRA Summit Racing Series World Championship, which takes place Oct. 30-Nov. 2 as part of the NHRA Nevada Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

It also adds an eighth official division to the thrilling Summit E.T. Series, as drivers will in Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman and Motorcycle will compete at NHRA member tracks across North America for a chance at a world championship. The Street Legal EV Finals will be contested at the eight divisional championships in 2025. Super Pro will move from 1/4-mile to 1/8-mile at the world championship to stay more in line with most common style of racing in the category at NHRA member tracks.

With the addition of the eighth division, there will also be no wild card entry to fill the eighth spot in each category. Winners from the eight Summit Racing E.T. Finals will make up the 32 world championship contenders racing for a chance at glory, a huge purse and prizes in Las Vegas.

On the “Road to Vegas,” tens of thousands of drivers will compete for event wins and divisional titles. The eight Summit Racing E.T. Finals begin on Aug. 28-31 in Division 6 at Mission Raceway Park in Mission, British Colombia and continuing throughout September with Division 2 on Sept. 9-12 at Gainesville Raceway, Division 3 at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, on Sept. 11-13, Division 5 on Sept. 12-14 at Tri-State Raceway in Earlville, Iowa, Division 1 Canada on Sept. 18-20 at Luskville Dragway in Québec and Division 1 on Sept. 19-21 at Numidia Dragway in Numidia, Pa.

The action at the E.T. Finals wraps up in October, with Division 4 taking place on Oct. 3-4 at Texas Motorplex in Dallas and Division 7 racing Oct. 3-5 at Firebird Motorsports Park in Phoenix. From there, the eight winners in Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman and Motorcycle will advance to Las Vegas with a world championship on the line.

Summit Racing Equipment, an industry leader in the distribution of auto racing parts and equipment through catalogs and the Internet, remains a huge supporter of the program, boasting a partnership of more than 20 years.

“We’re thrilled with the continued growth of the NHRA Summit Racing Series. It’s exciting to see an eighth Summit Racing E.T. Finals take place in Eastern Canada as this program continues to expand and provide great opportunities to the amazing racers across North America,” said Jim Greenleaf, Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports & Events Manager.

“There are so many talented competitors in the series that just winning a divisional championship is a huge accomplishment. We’re honored to present a unique opportunity to those racers to compete for a world championship. It’s always an exciting weekend in Las Vegas and we can’t wait to crown world champions this year.”

National champions in 2024 included Zach Meziere (Division 6) in Super Pro, Alvie Merrill (Division 4) in Pro, C.W. Hoefer (Division ) in Sportsman, James Paulson (Division ) in Motorcycle and Omar Leon (Division 7) in Street Legal EV.

The eight E.T. Finals winners in the NHRA Summit Series receive an impressive prize package, including a Wally trophy, jacket, and purse, along with bonus travel money to attend the world championship in Las Vegas. At the national event, each championship contender can enjoy a memorable experience that includes a champions’ welcome dinner, an introduction during the pre-race ceremonies at the NHRA national event and a huge spotlight all weekend as they compete for a world championship in front of a huge Las Vegas crowd.

The championship competitors will compete for a huge purse that is paid out to the 32 competitors attending the finals, plus contingency bonuses, a national championship Wally trophy, a championship jacket, and more.

“Anytime we can expand opportunities for our racers in North America, it’s a big deal, and today’s announcement is no different,” said Jason Galvin, NHRA Sportsman Racing Manager. “The addition of Canada as a participant in the ET Championships has been years in the making, and the support of Summit Racing Equipment is the only reason this is possible. We have eight great ET Finals events on tap, all leading into what has become a banner weekend for bracket racers in Las Vegas. Our goal in Las Vegas is to make that event unique and make those 32 drivers feel like the superstars we know they are. Last year was a big step, and this year will be even bigger.”

For more information on the NHRA Summit Racing Series, visit www.nhra.com/sportsman. For more information on NHRA, including the 2025 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.

2025 NHRA Summit Racing Series E.T. Finals Schedule

Division 1 Canada – Luskville Dragway, Luskville, Québec, Sept. 18-20
Division 1 – Numidia Dragway, Numidia, Pa., Sept. 19-21
Division 2 – Gainesville Raceway, Gainesville, Fla., Sept. 9-12
Division 3 – Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio, Sept. 11-13
Division 4 – Texas Motorplex, Dallas, Oct. 3-4
Division 5 – Tri-State Raceway, Earlville, Iowa, Sept. 12-14
Division 6 – Mission Raceway Park, Mission, British Colombia, Aug. 28-Aug. 31
Division 7 – Firebird Motorsports Park, Phoenix, Oct. 3-5

NHRA Summit Racing Series World Championship

The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Oct. 30-Nov. 2
(as part of the NHRA Nevada Nationals)

About Summit Racing Equipment

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

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

About NHRA

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

Daytona 500 – Did you know?

By
Angie Campbell
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Photo by Mike Biskupski for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 67th running of the Daytona 500 is set for this upcoming Sunday. But did you know that it has been the season-opener only since 1982?

The first “Great American Race” occurred on February 22, 1959. Lee Petty won in his No. 42 Oldsmobile Super 88 in his first appearance at the event. He led 38 laps, winning by two feet in a photo finish with Johnny Beauchamp and Joe Weatherly.

Coincidentally, twenty-five years later, his son, Richard Petty, captured his 200th win at Daytona in the Firecracker 400 on July 4, 1984.

The Daytona 500 trophy is arguably the most coveted award in the NASCAR Cup Series but did you know that 43 different drivers have won the Daytona 500?

Richard Petty leads the series with seven wins (1964, 1966, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1979, 1981), followed by Cale Yarborough with four wins. Bobby Allison, Dale Jarrett and Jeff Gordon have each won three Daytona 500s. Bill Elliott, Sterling Marlin, Michael Waltrip, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jimmie Johnson and Matt Kenseth have won the Daytona 500 two times.

Denny Hamlin leads active drivers with three wins (2016, 2019, 2020) but did you know that he is one of eight active drivers who will participate in this weekend’s race?

They include Jimmie Johnson who has 2 previous wins in 2006 and 2013, and William Byron (2024), Ricky Stehouse Jr. (2023), Austin Cindric (2022), Michael McDowell (2021), Austin Dillon (2018) and Joey Logano (2015) with one win each.  

Thirty years separate the oldest and youngest drivers who have won the 500. Trevor Bayne became the youngest driver (20 years, 0 months, 1 day) on Feb. 20, 2011, when he captured the checkered flag in his first start in the Daytona 500. It was also his first career Cup Series victory. Bobby Allison won his third Daytona 500 on Feb. 14, 1988, making him the oldest Daytona 500 winner (50 years, 2 months, 11 days).

Many say that where you finish is more important than where you start. However, when it comes to the Daytona 500, qualifying well is a key factor. Did you know that the pole position has produced more winners (nine) than any other position?

Sixteen of the 66 DAYTONA 500s (24.24%) have been won from the front row. Nine have been won from the pole and seven have been won from the second-place starting position.

The Daytona 500 is one of the most sought-after wins in NASCAR’s premier series, and for good reason.

Five drivers who won the 500 went on to become the Cup Series Champion the same year. The list includes Richard Petty (1964, 1971, 1974, 1979), Johnson (2006, 2013), Lee Petty (1959), Cale Yarborough (1977) and Jeff Gordon (1997).

The 67th Daytona 500 will kick off the 2025 season Sunday with television coverage on Sunday, Feb. 16 on FOX at 2:30 p.m. Radio coverage will be available on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR.

Follow @angiecampbell_ on Twitter for the latest NASCAR news and feature stories.

Hettinger Racing Enters NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Season Opener at Daytona With Driver Mason Maggio

By
Official Release
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20-Year-Old Racer To Drive No. 4 Tantillo Auto Group Chevrolet Silverado

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 12, 2025) – Hettinger Racing has entered the season-opening NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway with driver Mason Maggio.

The 20-year-old racer from Palm Beach Garden, Florida, will drive the No. 4 Tantillo Auto Group Chevrolet Silverado in Friday’s Fresh From Florida 250, which will be broadcast live at 7:30 p.m. EST on FS1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

The Fresh From Florida 250 will be Maggio’s 22nd career Truck Series start and his second on a superspeedway. Maggio’s first superspeedway start came in his most recent Truck Series race – Oct. 4, 2024 at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway, where he finished 18th.

“As far as the overall basics of superspeedway racing and how to navigate it, Talladega definitely gave me a great feel of what to expect,” Maggio said. “I’ve been putting in the work watching film between practice, qualifying and the race, and then I’ve got some really good people here at Hettinger Racing to lean on for advice. Talladega gave me a lot of good pointers and it just makes me feel even more prepared than I would’ve been if I didn’t do that race last year.”

Daytona marks Hettinger Racing’s third Truck Series start. The team ran the final two Truck Series race of the 2024 season at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway and Phoenix Raceway with driver Brett Moffitt after team owner Chris Hettinger bought the assets of Bret Holmes Racing.

Hettinger is a second-generation racer whose father, Jim, raced open-wheel Midgets and Sprint Cars and won two championships in 1984 and 1990, accolades that earned him a spot in the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame. Chris began his racing career behind the wheel, winning in Midgets and Late Models before becoming a fulltime team owner.

“Daytona marks another step in the growth of our race team,” Hettinger said. “We’ve got our Late Model and ARCA program, and the Truck Series represents the top step of the ladder program we have available to our drivers. Mason is ready for this opportunity and we are too.”

Maggio is an accomplished Late Model racer who began his career in Bandolero and Legend Cars. He made his Truck Series debut on June 4, 2022 at Worldwide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois, and his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut on April 1, 2023 at Richmond (Va.) Raceway.

“I broke into the Truck Series in 2022, and then did my first Xfinity start in 2023. Just been kind of going back and forth there, really hustling with smaller-to-mid-pack teams trying to make a name for myself and continuing to show the NASCAR world what I can do,” Maggio said. “I feel like I’ve done a pretty decent job of that, from well-established, small teams to even startup teams, so I’m not afraid to grab the bull by the horns and take on a new challenge. It’s what’s led me to this opportunity with Hettinger Racing and, knowing I’ve got good equipment and good people, it’s the most excited I’ve been in a long time.”

Niece Motorsports NCTS Race Preview: Daytona International Speedway

By
Official Release
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NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE ADVANCE: DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY
Event: Fresh From Florida 250 (100 laps / 250 miles)
Round: 1 of 25 (Regular Season Opener)
Track: Daytona International Speedway
Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
Date & Time: Friday, February 14th | 7:30 PM ET
Tune-In: FOX Sports 1 | Motor Racing Network (MRN) | Sirius XM Ch. 90

Team Stats & Notes

  • 10th Season Celebration: 2025 marks Niece Motorsports’ 10th consecutive season competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Starting in Daytona, all of the team’s race trucks will carry special decals commemorating the milestone. Social media content and merchandise will be centered around the campaign in forthcoming weeks.
  • Niece Motorsports Daytona Stats: Niece drivers have made a combined 20 starts for the organization at Daytona International Speedway. Historically, the team runs well at this track, having posted four top-fives and eight top-10s over the years, including a best result of third with Ross Chastain in 2019. Last year, Bayley Currey was the highest-performing team driver finishing in 13th-place.

No. 42 J.F. Electric / Utilitra Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Matt Mills | Crew Chief: Mike Shiplett

  • On the Box: Recently joining the organization in October, veteran crew chief, Mike Shiplett, will continue to call the shots for the No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST. Shiplett, a 24-time NXS winner, has claimed victories in all three NASCAR national series. Before his time at Niece Motorsports, Shiplett spent years working with several established teams such as Evernham Motorsports, Turner Motorsports, Richard Petty Motorsports, Chip Ganassi Racing, Stewart-Haas Racing, and Richard Childress Racing, among others.

During his tenure as a NXS crew chief, Shiplett’s team qualified for the Playoffs on four occasions – including a runner-up finish with Ganassi in 2018. He also made the Cup Series Playoffs in 2020 while at Stewart-Haas. Outside of racing, Shiplett enjoys exploring the ocean as a licensed scuba dive master. At 52, he resides in Salisbury, North Carolina, with his wife, Brooke.

  • On the Roof: Spotting for the No. 42 team this year will be TJ Majors, who primarily fills the role for Brad Keselowski’s No. 6 Cup Series team at RFK Racing. Majors is a former driver turned multi-time race-winning spotter with decades of experience. He spotted for Mills in several races last year, having shifted over from the No. 41 team midway through the season.
  • Mills’ Daytona Stats: Matt Mills has made one prior NCTS start at Daytona International Speedway which came in last year’s season opener. After starting fourth, Mills finished 26th after he was collected in an early multi-truck crash. In eight NXS starts at the famed 2.5-mile super speedway, Mills holds one top-10 following a 10th-place run in the summer race held in 2019.
  • Shiplett’s Daytona Stats: Mike Shiplett has been atop the pit box for one NCTS race at Daytona International Speedway, working with Bret Holmes who finished fourth in last year’s race. In the Cup Series, Shiplett has called 13 races here with two top-10s (best of ninth with Reed Sorenson in 2009). Shiplett is a past Daytona winner in the Xfinity Series, having claimed the summer race with Kyle Larson in 2018.
  • On the Truck: Mills’ No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from longtime partners J.F. Electric and Utilitra, who will serve as his anchor partners for the entire 25-race season.
  • Previewing 2025: As he enters his second full-time season, Mills is ready to step up to the plate and contend for wins in the Truck Series. Before last year, Mills spent seven years in the Xfinity Series, using the majority of last year acclimating to the tendencies of NCTS racing. Now, with a year’s worth of experience behind him, Mills believes he is the most prepared on what it takes to exceed expectations heading into 2025.
  • Testing, Testing: Mills recently visited Rockingham Speedway for the first time as he participated in last month’s two-day NCTS organizational test. Sharing his No. 42 truck with Ross Chastain, Mills unofficially placed the seventh-quickest timed lap around the historic track.
  • Quoting Mills: Your team had a great truck last time out at Talladega, so what were you able to learn in that race that can help at the start of the year?

“Having a great spotter like TJ Majors taught me a lot in Talladega. He really helped explain all the work that you have to do when you’re in the first couple of rows when you’re dictating the field and setting the pace. I’m looking forward to going back to Daytona; we prepared really fast trucks at the super speedways last year, so having a fast race truck and having TJ up top spotting, I think we have another good shot at having a great weekend for J.F. Electric and Utilitra.”

About J.F. Electric: J.F. Electric is an electrical contractor that provides engineering expertise, backed by construction and installation know-how in a diverse range of service offerings, from utilities and commercial projects, to industrial and telecommunications customers. When having a long family history in an industry, a company not only builds on its knowledge and experience, it takes pride in cultivating a solid understanding of client needs, all the while nurturing strong relationships with its employees. Evolving through five generations of the Fowler family, J.F. Electric has matured into a well-managed and thoughtfully diversified electrical contractor which is poised to continue its growth and expansion into the future.

About Utilitra: Utilitra is a woman-owned firm specializing in utility and technology solutions with a diverse team of specialized professionals. Utilitra is committed to solving their client’s unique challenges, whether one expert or a team of experts is needed. By adapting to the needs of their respective industries, Utilitra has built a range of services for their utility and technology partners.

No. 44 Masked Owl Technologies / DQS Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Bayley Currey | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers

  • On the Box: As one of the most experienced crew chiefs in the NCTS garage, Wally Rogers has spent over 30 years dedicating his life to the sport. Rogers will oversee the No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST this year. Born in New Jersey, Rogers began his career as a mechanic in the IROC Series, later joining Andy Petree Racing in 1996. From there, he spent time at Evans Racing, Kevin Harvick Incorporated, Evernham Motorsports, Richard Petty Motorsports, Levine-Family Racing, GoFAS Racing, Tri-Star Motorsports, All-Out Motorsports, and Jordan Anderson Racing, before joining Niece in 2020.

An avid outdoorsman, Rogers enjoys hunting and camping on his weeks off. The 52-year-old lives in Lexington, North Carolina, with his girlfriend, Marlene. Rogers is a father of twin daughters, Cali (19), and Emma (19).

  • On the Roof: One of Niece Motorsports’ original drivers, TJ Bell, will spot for the No. 44 team this season. After completing his driving career, he transitioned into the spotting role. Last year, Bell worked with the No. 45 team, and recently picked up a LMP2 class win at the 24 Hours of Daytona with United Autosports.
  • Currey’s Daytona Stats: Bayley Currey made his first NCTS start at Daytona International Speedway last February. Rolling off from the ninth position in qualifying, his No. 41 Silverado finished 13th on that day. Currey has also made four NXS starts at Daytona, posting a best result of 20th in the 2022 season opener.
  • Rogers’ Daytona Stats: Wally Rogers has called five NCTS races held at Daytona International Speedway since 2004, when he made his first series start. Rogers has built some considerably fast trucks in the draft, toting two top-fives including a second-place finish with Jordan Anderson in 2020. Rogers is a two-time winner in the Xfinity Series at this track, having visited victory lane with Randy LaJoie in 2001 and Tony Stewart in 2006. He’s also made eight Cup Series starts, finishing as high as seventh.
  • On the Truck: Currey’s No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Masked Owl Technologies and DQS Solutions & Staffing.
  • Previewing 2025: After completing his first full-time season driving the No. 41 Chevrolet last year, Currey returns to Niece Motorsports with the No. 44 team. As the highest-finishing team driver in points in 2024 (18th), Currey looks to parlay his momentum to produce breakout runs heading into the new year.
  • Tying the Knot: On January 11th, Currey married his fiancée, Lexie, in the picturesque snowfall of Cleveland, North Carolina surrounded by family, friends, and teammates. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds traveled to Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands for a memorable, week-long honeymoon.
  • Bayley on Ice: Two weeks ago, Currey traveled to Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, for his first experience attending the I-500. Through sub-zero temperatures in a rigid climate, the driver helped bridge the gap between stock car and snowmobile racing. He drove the team’s Dirt Super Late Model around as the pace car for the iconic race that was put on by Owosso Speedway and Precision Vehicle Logistics.
  • Quoting Currey: With how well your truck ran in last year’s race, do you think you’ll try to stay up front again this time?

“For sure, that’s got to be my game plan. It was a blast to be up front pushing the leaders last year, and I think we’ll have the truck to do it again this time. Our trucks always seem to qualify and race pretty well at the super speedways and everyone in the shop has been pouring their hearts into these pieces ever since we came back home from Phoenix last year. I’m hungry and really want to make everyone proud at Masked Owl, DQS, and Niece Motorsports.”

About Masked Owl Technologies: Masked Owl Technologies (MOT) is an industrial solutions integrator specializing in developing customized automation and controls processes. They take a consulting-based approach to identify the root cause of system challenges and incorporate tested, emerging technology into industrial solutions that mitigate risk and solve complex problems, the first time.

About DQS Solutions & Staffing: Guided by a mission to achieve excellence and adaptability, DQS partners with clients to create custom solutions that address unique business challenges. Recognized as Michigan’s fastest-growing company and #22 in the nation on the Inc. 5000 list, DQS drives industry growth while giving back through its nonprofit, Foundation for Pops, and partnerships like the River Rouge School District.

No. 45 AutoVentive / Precision Vehicle Logistics Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Kaden Honeycutt | Crew Chief: Phil Gould

  • On the Box: Niece Motorsports’ longest-tenured and winningest crew chief, Phil Gould, returns for his seventh season with the team. Remaining in place, Gould will lead the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST. Gould, who has been associated with the organization since 2019, has won eight NCTS races on top of the pit box with Ross Chastain and Carson Hocevar. His team has made the Playoffs for four seasons – including last year competing for the owner’s title.

At the start of his career, Gould joined Mike Stefanik’s NXS team before moving to Evernham Motorsports. From there, he spent 12 seasons at Richard Childress Racing – before moving to Roush-Fenway Racing – where he won his first NXS race as a crew chief and qualified for the Playoffs three years straight. The 47-year-old lives in Salisbury, North Carolina, with his fiancée, Nacole. Gould is a father of two sons, Matt (19) and Justin (18).

  • On the Roof: Accomplished driver-turned spotter, Stevie Reeves, will spot for the No. 45 team this year. Reeves, a two-time USAC Midget champion, actively spots for Christopher Bell’s No. 20 Cup Series team for Joe Gibbs Racing. Last year, Reeves worked with the No. 44 team’s array of drivers.
  • Honeycutt’s Daytona Stats: Kaden Honeycutt is looking to make his first-career NCTS start at Daytona International Speedway on Friday night. The 21-year-old attempted to qualify into the race in 2023, but was unable to do so.
  • Gould’s Daytona Stats: Phil Gould has called six NCTS races at Daytona, posting one top-five and two top-10 finishes (best of third with Ross Chastain in 2019). In 2017, Gould won his first Xfinity Series race as a crew chief here while working with Ryan Reed. In total, Gould has achieved three top-fives and five top-10 finishes in 12 NXS starts at this track.
  • On the Truck: Honeycutt’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from AutoVentive and Precision Vehicle Logistics, who will serve as his anchor partners for the majority of the upcoming season.
  • Previewing 2025: Coming off an impressive stint in a partial schedule last year, Kaden Honeycutt enters 2025 looking to contend for the championship in his first full-time effort. Despite only making 14 starts, Honeycutt excelled with six top-10 finishes, highlighted by a pair of fourth-place runs in both Kansas races. With the No. 45 team staying in tact from last year, the group aims to build off their momentum found in 2024.
  • Testing, Continued: Honeycutt joined teammates, Matt Mills and Ross Chastain, in a two-day NCTS organizational test at Rockingham Speedway in January. Though the layout was new to him, the driver of the No. 45 team felt right at home, unofficially posting the second-quickest timed lap overall.
  • Off-Season Fun: Kaden Honeycutt had one of the busiest off-seasons this past winter, starting off with a marquee victory in the 57th Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway. In late December, Honeycutt and team visited the NFL stadium that hosts the Detroit Lions for a flag football tournament with employees from Precision Vehicle Logistics and DQS Solutions & Staffing. At the start of the year, Honeycutt finished second in a US Legends car race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, and wrapped up the month attending the I-500 snowmobile race.
  • Quoting Honeycutt: What does the significance of racing at Daytona mean to you?

“Racing at Daytona means a lot considering it’s the starting point for my first full-time year. It is going to be a battle all night to win this race like every year, but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding considering how much effort has been put into our trucks. I have never raced here before, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and starting the year off strong with our No. 45 AutoVentive / Precision team.”

About AutoVentive: AutoVentive is an industry-leading Software as a Service (SaaS) applications developer providing customized solutions to the automotive logistics industry. The company is part of Liberty Hill Equity Partners, LLC, a Cincinnati-based private equity firm.

About Precision Vehicle Logistics: Precision Vehicle Logistics is a customer-focused group of professionals committed to service excellence in finished vehicle logistics. Precision offers a unique combination of talented experience, industry-leading software and systems, and a network of partners and resources to deliver customized solutions to the world’s leading automakers.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2025, the team celebrates its 10th consecutive season competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) where it fields the Nos. 41, 42, 44 and 45. Since its founding in 2016, Niece Motorsports has garnered nine wins, 50+ top-fives, 100+ top-10s, 190+ top-15 finishes and made five playoff appearances. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a trusted build shop for the Chevrolet Silverados of multiple NCTS teams as well as a customizable fabrication shop for any manufacturing needs.

Follow the Team: To keep up to date with the latest team news, visit niecemotorsports.com or connect on Facebook and Instagram (@NieceMotorsports) as well as X (@NieceMotorsport).

Daytona 500 race info, stats and trivia

By
SM Staff
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Photo by Mike Biskupski for SpeedwayMedia.com

We head into this weekend’s race at Daytona International Speedway, better known as the “World Center of Racing,” for the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500. The racing action begins with the DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light on Wednesday, February 12th. This will set the field for the Duel At DAYTONA, which will be on Thursday, February 13th, with the drivers battling it out for a spot in the DAYTONA 500.

This will also mark the season opening for all three of NASCAR’s national series and the ARCA Menards Series. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Fresh From Florida 250 will be on Friday, February 14th at 7:30 p.m. ET. On Saturday, February 15th, a double-header with the ARCA race will be followed by the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 300 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

On Sunday, February 16th, we will feature “The Great American Race,” the DAYTONA 500, at 2:30 p.m. ET. It will feature GRAMMY® Award Winning Artist Pitbull’s pre-race show with the USAF Thunderbirds flyover. Anthony Mackie has been named the grand marshal for the race. Mackie portrays Captain America in Marvel Studios’ new film Captain America: Brave New World, releasing February 14th in theaters.

For more information, please visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com.

Race Information and Stats

Race No. 1 of 36 – Daytona 500 – 500 miles (200 laps) on February 16, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. ET
You can also view our schedule for 2025 Daytona Speedweeks here.

  • Purse: $30,331,250
  • Track Size: 2.5 miles
  • Banking/Corners: 31 degrees
  • Banking/Straights: 3 degrees
  • Banking/Tri-Oval: 18 degrees
  • The 2024 pole winner was Joey Logano (181.947 mph, 49.465 secs., 02-14-2024), driving a Ford Mustang for Team Penske.
  • The 2024 race winner was William Byron (157.178 mph, 03:10:52, 02-19-2024), driving a Chevrolet Camaro for Hendrick Motorsports.

The Stages

  • Stage 1 Length: 162.5 miles (65 laps)
  • Stage 2 Length: 162.5 miles (65 laps, Ends on Lap 130)
  • Final Stage Length: 175 miles (70 laps, Ends on Lap 200)

Can Byron repeat?

William Byron and Hendrick Motorsports delivered the final ultimatum that sent them to Victory Lane in the rain-postponed 66th annual running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Monday, February 19th, 2024. The 26-year-old Byron from Charlotte, North Carolina, led the final four of 200-scheduled laps in an event where he started 18th and was consistent amongst a bevy of competitors running in tight two and three-stacked lanes from start to finish. Byron cycled to the front and made his presence at the front known for the first time during the final restart. With four laps remaining, he fended off late challenges from Ross Chastain and Austin Cindric to emerge as the winner of the Great American Race for the first time in his career.

Amber Balcaen, ICON & Gambit Technologies Unveil Game-Changing AI Sponsorship at Daytona 500

By
Official Release
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ICON and Gambit Technologies Unveil Game-Changing Sponsorship with Amber Balcaen for the Daytona 500

Winkler, MB – ICON, a leader in premium RV parts, and Gambit Technologies, a trailblazer in AI-driven sponsorship innovation, are thrilled to announce an innovative partnership with ARCA driver Amber Balcaen for the week of the 2025 Daytona 500. This partnership introduces the groundbreaking “Ask Amber” AI tool—a first-of-its-kind platform that blends cutting-edge technology with the excitement of motorsports, setting a new standard for fan engagement and customer interaction.

Innovation on Motorsport’s Biggest Stage

Launching on February 12th during Amber’s scheduled practice, AskAmber.io will debut as part of the excitement surrounding the iconic Daytona 500 weekend. Amber Balcaen will compete in the Daytona Hard Rock Bet 200 ARCA race on February 15th, giving fans an exciting new way to connect with her story while introducing a transformative AI-powered sponsorship experience. By integrating Amber Balcaen’s AI-powered personality into the fan experience, ICON and Gambit Technologies are breaking barriers in how brands connect with audiences.

“AskAmber.io isn’t just a tool—it’s a way to bring fans closer to the action and create meaningful interactions with RV owners, RV Dealers, and Race Fans,” said John Loewen, ICON Founder & CEO. “We’re thrilled to debut this innovation at such a meaningful event.”

Race Day Launch of the AskAmber.io RV Parts Tool

On February 12th, fans will gain access to Amber Balcaen through the “Ask Amber” tool, available at AskAmber.io. This unique platform allows users to:

  • Access a personalized shopping experience on ICONdirect.com, where RV owners, dealers, and repair professionals can easily find and purchase premium RV parts.
  • Ask Amber questions about her racing career, journey to NASCAR, and experiences at the Daytona 500.
  • Engage in real-time interactions, creating a deeper connection with their favorite driver and brand.
  • This campaign redefines the sponsorship model by showcasing how AI personalities can deliver entertainment, value, and a seamless customer experience.

Groundbreaking Fan Interaction, Meaningful business tool

“Ask-Amber is intended for more than fan interaction, it’s meant to be a reputable, useful tool for RV Parts customers, notably RV Dealers,” said John Loewen, ICON Founder & CEO. “The digital representation of Amber has been trained on all of our part details, making it easy for someone like an RV Parts professional to find the correct part for their application.”

Quotes from Key Partners

Amber Balcaen shared her enthusiasm about the initiative:
“I’m so excited to partner with ICON and Gambit Technologies to bring something groundbreaking to the Daytona 500. Fans will finally get a chance to connect with me in real time while also discovering a whole new way to shop for RV parts. This is the future of fan interaction!”

Pat Belliveau, Co-Founder of Gambit Technologies, said:
“At Gambit, we build AI personalities people actually want to talk to. Launching AskAmber at the Daytona 500 marks the beginning of a new era for sponsorships—where engagement, personalization, and innovation come together to deliver incredible value to fans and brands.”

About ICON

ICON is a leading manufacturer of premium RV parts, specializing in high-quality plastic components for RV owners, dealers, and manufacturers. ICON’s dedication to innovation and excellence has earned it a reputation as a trusted name in the RV industry.

About Gambit Technologies

Gambit Technologies specializes in creating AI solutions that connect technology with human interaction. By building AI personalities people love to engage with, Gambit transforms customer conversations and humanizes digital experiences.

As creators of AskEllyn, the world’s first AI companion for breast cancer support, Gambit has a proven track record of innovation. Their expertise spans caregiving, legal access, research, health support, media optimization, and customer engagement, creating tools that revolutionize how users interact with brands. Learn more at Gambitco.io.

About Amber Balcaen

Amber Balcaen is a professional race car driver and rising star in motorsports. She made history as the first Canadian woman to win a NASCAR-sanctioned race in the United States and achieved a career-best 6th-place finish in the 2024 ARCA season.

For more information, visit ICONdirect.com/racing or AskAmber.io.

START YOUR ENTRIES! Win $1 million at NASCAR Championship Weekend

By
Official Release
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NASCAR Powerball Playoff™ returns for third edition alongside 2025 NASCAR® season

JOHNSTON, Iowa (Feb. 12, 2025) – The highly anticipated NASCAR Powerball Playoff™ is back for its third edition, offering lottery players a chance to win an exclusive trip to 2025 NASCAR Championship Weekend™ and cash prizes up to $1 MILLION!

Powerball® and NASCAR® announced the return of the national promotion today, which will run alongside the 2025 NASCAR season. The promotion will culminate with four lottery players winning a VIP trip for two to 2025 NASCAR Championship Weekend™ at Phoenix Raceway®, Oct. 31 – Nov. 2. In addition, the four lottery players will have the chance to win $1 million in a special drawing televised live on NBC before the start of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race™.

“This promotion offers our players the ultimate motorsport experience, combining the excitement of NASCAR Championship Weekend with the chance of a lifetime to win $1 million,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO. “The four finalists and their guests will be flown to Phoenix to be immersed in the action, including pace car rides, access to exclusive areas, and front-row seats to some of the biggest NASCAR races.”

“This promotion has been such a great avenue to further engage NASCAR fans all across the country over the past two seasons,” said Michelle Byron, NASCAR Executive Vice President, Chief Partnership and Licensing Officer. “The synergies the Powerball Playoff has with the different stages of the NASCAR Playoffs allows for increased excitement and anticipation throughout the year, culminating with someone winning $1 million right before we crown a champion in Phoenix.”

Lottery players can enter the national Powerball® promotion through a participating state lottery. Lotteries will hold in-state contests and second-chance drawings throughout the 2025 NASCAR regular season to form a national pool of entrants. Entry periods and method of entry will vary by lottery. At the end of the NASCAR regular season, 16 semi-finalists will be drawn from the national pool to advance to the Powerball Playoff drawings, with no more than one semi-finalist per lottery advancing.

The Powerball Playoff drawings are a series of elimination drawings that mirror the elimination rounds of the NASCAR Playoffs™. As the 2025 playoff field of drivers is reduced, Powerball will reduce its playoff field of semi-finalists eligible to win the $1 million grand prize. Through a series of drawings, the field of semi-finalists will be reduced from 16 to 12 to 8 to 4 – with the remaining four finalists winning a VIP trip for two to the NASCAR Championship Weekend™ at Phoenix Raceway and entry into the $1 million drawing.

The results of each Powerball Playoff drawing will be revealed during select race broadcasts, beginning with the Round of 16 announcement on Aug. 23 at the NASCAR regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway. Cash prizes will be awarded to all 16 national semi-finalists based on their elimination position, ranging from $2,500 to the $1 million top prize:

PowerballPlayoff DrawingsDateRace AnnouncementNotes
Round of 16Aug. 23Coke Zero Sugar 400, Daytona Intl Speedway, Daytona, FL16 semi-finalists advance
Round of 12Sept. 13Bass Pro Shops Night Race, Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, TN12 semi-finalists advance4 eliminated win $2,500
Round of 8Oct. 5Bank of America ROVAL™ 400, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, NC8 semi-finalists advance4 eliminated win $5,000
Championship 4Oct 26NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Race, Martinsville Speedway, Martinsville, VA4 finalists advance & win VIP trip4 eliminated win $7,500
$1 Million ChampionshipNov. 2NASCAR Cup Series Championship, Phoenix Raceway, Avondale, AZ(1) $1 million winner(3) $10,000 winners

The VIP trip includes roundtrip airfare for two to Phoenix, three nights hotel accommodations – double occupancy, two Ally Curve Hospitality Club passes for both the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race on Nov. 1 and the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on Nov. 2, two passes for VIP experiences at Phoenix Raceway during the NASCAR Championship Weekend including NASCAR Cup Series™ VIP access, NASCAR team hauler tour, MRN radio booth tour, pace car rides, Victory Lane access,  all meals, and ground transportation to scheduled events and activities.

Players should stay tuned to their local lotteries for more information on how to enter. Participating lotteries include Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana (Hoosier), Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin. Additional lotteries may join the Powerball promotion at a later time.

Players can also follow the NASCAR Powerball Playoff on Facebook, Instagram, and online at Powerball.com.

Last year, Louisiana Lottery player Meagan Lewis, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was declared the NASCAR Powerball Playoff Champion and $1 million winner in a special drawing broadcast live from Phoenix Raceway before the start of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race™.

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season officially begins this Sunday with live action of the DAYTONA 500 from Daytona International Speedway. The race will air live at 2:30 p.m. EST on FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Powerball

Powerball® holds the current world record for largest national lottery jackpot at $2.04 billion. Since its first drawing in 1992, the game has helped generate more than $32 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Powerball tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on Powerball.com.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook. 

JR Motorsports — NCS & NXS Daytona International Speedway Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports Cup Team Preview

TRACK – Daytona International Speedway (2.5-mile superspeedway)
NCS RACE – Daytona 500 (200 laps / 500 miles)
TUNE IN – FOX, MRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 2:30 p.m. (ET)

Justin Allgaier

No. 40 – Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet

Justin NCS Career Stats

Starts: 82

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 0

Top 10s: 1

Laps Led: 17

Avg. Finish: 27.4

Points: N/A

JR Motorsports, along with 10-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Chris Stapleton, have come together to field the inaugural entry for JRM in the NASCAR Cup Series in the 2025 running of the DAYTONA 500. In partnership with Buffalo Trace Distillery, the World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery, JRM will field the No. 40 Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet, inspired by the Blend No. 40 utilized in every bottle of Traveller Whiskey, for their maiden voyage in “The Great American Race” with the reigning and defending NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion Justin Allgaier behind the wheel.

Allgaier has experience in the DAYTONA 500 having made two starts in the hallowed event during the 2014 and 2015 seasons, respectively.

Allgaier most recently competed at the Cup level during the 2024 season in substitution for 2021 Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson at Charlotte Motor Speedway, taking the checkered flag in the 13th position.

JRM’s quest for the DAYTONA 500 marks the first time that Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt-Miller have entered a race in the Cup Series as team owners. Under their leadership in the NXS, JRM has been a pillar of success, earning 88 wins and four championships with drivers Chase Elliott, William Byron, Tyler Reddick and most recently with Allgaier.

Justin Allgaier

“This weekend at Daytona is going to be extremely special. To be able to have the opportunity to be driving JR Motorsports’ first entry into the Cup Series is something that I will forever cherish. I know that we are going to have extremely fast Chevrolets in both series this weekend, and I can’t wait to get our Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet locked in. Once we accomplish that, I see no reason why we won’t be up front fighting for the win on both Saturday with our BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet, and on Sunday. I can’t say thank you enough to Traveller Whiskey, Dale (Earnhardt Jr.), Kelley (Earnhardt-Miller), Chris Stapleton, Rick Brandt, and everyone at JR Motorsports for all of their hard work throughout this offseason in order to make this weekend happen. JRM has always built unbelievably strong speedway cars, and I can’t wait to see what we can do when we get down there this weekend.”

JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview

TRACK – Daytona International Speedway (2.5-mile superspeedway)
NXS RACE – United Rentals 300 (120 laps / 300 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, MRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 5:00 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet

Kvapil 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 9

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 3

Top 10s: 4

Laps Led: 63

Avg. Finish: 13.2

Points: N/A

Carson Kvapil will make his full time NXS debut this weekend at Daytona after making nine starts for JRM during the 2024 season.

Across his nine previous NXS starts, Kvapil has recorded three top fives and four top 10s, with a best finish of second coming at Dover Motor Speedway last spring.

Kvapil is a two-time zMAX CARS Tour Late Model Stock Car champion for JRM, winning the crown in both 2022 and 2023. In his career, the 21-year-old driver made 47 starts, earned 12 victories and eight poles, notching 36 top-five and 40 top-10 finishes in one of the premier short-track series in the country.

Bass Pro Shops and Clarience Technologies will continue their support of Kvapil for the first of 23 primary paint schemes at the season opener this weekend.

Carson Kvapil

“I am really looking forward to getting to Daytona this weekend and getting the season started. We have been putting in a lot of work during the offseason at the sim and I know Andrew (Overstreet, crew chief) and the rest of this No. 1 Bass Pro Shops/Clarience Technologies team is going to set me up for success. I can’t thank Johnny Morris and everyone at Bass Pro Shops and Clarience Technologies enough for their support and I hope we can get some great finishes for them. I know we have a lot to learn, but we’re going to take it one race at a time and try not to have too many bad days along the way.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

Allgaier 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 33

Wins: 2

Top 5s: 10

Top 10s: 20

Laps Led: 709

Avg. Finish: 13.5

Points: 1st

Allgaier kicks off his NXS title defense at “The World Center of Racing” with cornerstone partner BRANDT Professional Agriculture onboard his No. 7 Chevrolet.

In 28 career NXS starts at Daytona, the reigning, defending, undisputed NXS Champion has scored one win, eight top fives and 14 top 10s.

Allgaier’s lone victory at the famed superspeedway came in dramatic fashion, as the JRM driver captured the checkered flag in a photo finish during the summer event in 2023.

The Illinois native comes into the new year fresh off a 2024 championship campaign that saw Allgaier earn two wins, 10 top fives and 20 top 10s.

Sammy Smith

No. 8 TMC Chevrolet

Smith 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 33

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 16

Laps Led: 65

Avg. Finish: 15.2

Points: 11th

Sammy Smith returns for his second year with JRM and his first full season with crew chief, Phillip Bell after the pair came together for the final 10 races of 2024.

Smith will run a familiar looking No. 8 in 2025 as the new season marks the return of the iconic stylized No. 8 previously driven by team owner Earnhardt Jr,

Smith is the most recent winner in the NXS on a drafting track, having gone to Victory Lane last fall at Talladega Speedway.

TMC Transportation, based out of Des Moines, IA, will be kicking off the season with Smith with the first of six primary races for their hometown driver.

Sammy Smith

“I’m really proud of the work Phillip (Bell, crew chief) and this entire No. 8 team has done the past few months to start the season off strong. We came together for the final 10 races of last year and I think we learned a lot in a short amount of time that we can apply to this 2025 season. We know that these superspeedways aren’t always a good reflection of all the hard work we put in because anything can happen and it happens fast. Our win at Talladega last year proves that we have what it takes though and we expect to go out and do the same this weekend in Daytona with TMC.”

Connor Zilisch

No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet

Zilisch 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 4

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 3

Top 10s: 3

Laps Led: 45

Avg. Finish: 5.3

Points: N/A

Connor Zilisch is set to begin his first full-time NXS season in the United Rentals 300 at Daytona on Saturday afternoon.

Zilisch enters the 2025 season on the heels of a successful debut with JRM in 2024 when he won in his first-ever NXS start at Watkins Glen International. Zilisch started on the pole and led the most laps (45 of 90) on the way to scoring the victory. He also led all drivers with an average running position of 4.39 during the 200-mile event.

This will be Zilisch’s first NASCAR race on the 2.5-mile oval at Daytona. He has previously competed in the NASCAR Truck Series race at Talladega this past October, giving him familiarity to the drafting style of racing.

Zilisch is no stranger to success at the World Center of Racing. He won the 2024 Rolex 24 IMSA race in the LMP2 class with ERA Motorsports.

Connor Zilisch

“It’s going to be really important to have a good run in Daytona. Starting off the season on a positive note is obviously good for my confidence and for the WeatherTech team’s confidence as well. There are definitely some challenges going to a superspeedway race with not a lot of experience. Those tracks are a lot different than what I’m used to. One of the biggest things at Daytona is making it to the end of the race. A lot can happen at Daytona. We’re going to do everything we can with my spotter and team to keep us out of trouble and keep us in the race.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Daytona International Speedway: JR Motorsports has competed at Daytona International Speedway, the organization’s winningest track, a combined 116 times in the NXS. In those starts at the 2.5-mile superspeedway, the organization has recorded eight wins, 29 top-fives and 46 top-10s. The average finish is 16.1.

Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith and Connor Zilisch will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / Legacy MC souvenir rig on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET.

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