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Weekend Schedule for the NASCAR at Circuit of The Americas Tripleheader

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Official Release
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Christopher Bell (No. 20) chases Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Ty Gibbs (No. 54) in the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix NASCAR Cup Photo Credit: NASCAR at COTA/Harold Hinson Photography
  • Fifth annual NASCAR weekend at Circuit of The Americas to feature the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series as well as the IMSA-sanctioned VP Racing SportsCar Challenge.
  • Drivers will compete on the 2.4-mile, 17-turn National Course for the first time.
  • EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix NASCAR Cup Series race will be extended from 68 laps to approximately 100 and provide nearly 50 percent more racing in front of fans in attendance.

AUSTIN, Texas (Jan. 17, 2025) – The fifth annual NASCAR at COTA event will once again play host to the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and Xfinity Series (NXS) across a three-day race weekend, but this time on the 2.4-mile, 17-turn Circuit of The Americas (COTA) National Course layout. This will be the first road course event and first of two Texas visits of the season for both series. The weekend will also feature the IMSA-sanctioned VP Racing SportsCar Challenge (IMSA).

The tripleheader race weekend will be highlighted by the NXS Focused Health 250 sandwiched between two 45-minute IMSA races on Saturday, March 1, and then the marquee NCS EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix on Sunday, March 2. NASCAR had competed previously on COTA’s 3.41-mile, 20-turn Full Course layout, but all three series will now compete on the National Course.

On-track action begins Friday, Feb. 28, with IMSA and NXS practice and qualifying sessions beginning at 12 p.m. CT. IMSA will be first on track with two practice sessions (12 p.m. and 2 p.m.), followed by NXS practice (4 p.m.) and qualifying (5 p.m.) and IMSA qualifying (6:30 p.m.).

All three series will be on track Saturday, March 1, with IMSA leading off with the first of two races at 8:40 a.m. The NCS takes over at 10 a.m. for their first practice followed by a second practice (10:45 a.m.) and qualifying (11:30 a.m.). The jam-packed day continues with the Focused Health 250 NXS race (1:30 p.m.) and ends with the second IMSA race (5 p.m.).

The weekend concludes with the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix on Sunday, March 2, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Click HERE for the full weekend schedule.

The NCS and NXS will return to the Lone Star State along with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series for a May 2-4 visit to Fort Worth and Texas Motor Speedway (TMS). Fans can take advantage of the “Texas Two-Step” promotion between NASCAR at COTA and TMS. Speedway Motorsports will offer ticket purchasers of either NCS race a 20 percent discount if they would like to attend both. Click HERE for more information on the “Texas Two-Step” promotion or to purchase tickets.

Tickets:

Tickets for children ages 12 and under are just $10 for the March 2 EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix NCS race and free for the March 1 NXS Focused Health 250 and IMSA-sanctioned VP Racing SportsCar Challenge. For individual tickets, weekend packages and camping, fans can visit NASCARatCOTA.com.

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Keep track of all things NASCAR at COTA by following on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@NASCARatCOTA). Keep up with all the latest information on the NASCAR at COTA website and mobile app.

Ackerman Toyota Remains Title Sponsor for Spike Kohlbecker Racing in 2025 Toyota GR Cup North American Championship

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Official Release
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“Kohlbecker continues his partnership with Ackerman Toyota in 2025”

St. Louis, MO (January 17, 2025) – Spike Kohlbecker, the St. Louis, Missouri native and rising star in the world of motorsport, is excited to announce the continuation of his partnership with Ackerman Toyota. Continuing as Title Partner for the 2025 Toyota GAZOO Racing GR Cup North American Series, Kohlbecker and Ackerman Toyota are looking for big things in 2025.

“I am deeply honored to be the first driver in the Toyota GR Cup series to be sponsored by an award-winning Toyota dealership,” expressed Kohlbecker. “Continuing this partnership with Ackerman Toyota, the #1 volume Toyota dealer in St. Louis for the second consecutive year, is a testament to the success we achieved together in 2024. I am incredibly grateful for the support from the entire Ackerman Toyota team and look forward to representing them in the pursuit of the 2025 Toyota GR Cup National Championship.”

Jay Ackerman, owner of Ackerman Toyota, added his enthusiasm for the ongoing collaboration. “Spike and I share a passion for St. Louis, Toyota vehicles, and racing,” explained Ackerman. “After seeing how well Spike represented Ackerman Toyota during the 2024 season, we were eager to support his championship aspirations in 2025. Spike embodies the spirit of St. Louis, and we are proud to be part of his journey, both on and off the track.”

Reflecting on his 2024 season, Kohlbecker continued, “It was an incredible year, and I am thrilled to continue building on the momentum gained from my sophomore season. Earning the Vice Championship in just my second year of sports car racing was a milestone, and the collaboration with Ackerman Toyota was integral to our success. Together, we supported meaningful events such as the NASCAR Toyota 200 at World Wide Technology Raceway and raised awareness for breast cancer with Valeda’s Hope during Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I am eager to continue that legacy of success and community impact in 2025.”

With just 28 races in his career, Kohlbecker will join RVA Graphics Motorsports by Speed Syndicate for the 2025 season.

“Spike is a competitive force every time he gets behind the wheel,” added Farran Davis, Team Development Manager at RVA Graphics Motorsports. “I look forward to working with him and helping him achieve his short- and long-term racing goals.”

About Ackerman Toyota

Ackerman Toyota, located at 2020 Hampton Avenue in St. Louis, is the area’s #1 volume Toyota dealership. Known for its exceptional customer service, timely vehicle maintenance, and the exclusive Ackerman Advantage program, Ackerman Toyota has built a strong relationship with the St. Louis community. The dealership is proud to support Spike Kohlbecker Racing in his pursuit of the 2025 Toyota GR Cup National Championship. To learn more, visit www.AckermanToyota.com.

About Spike Kohlbecker

Spike Kohlbecker is a 22-year-old professional driver from St. Louis, Missouri, currently studying at Boise State University’s College of Business and Economics. After transitioning from open-wheel racing to sports car racing, Kohlbecker competed in the inaugural 2023 Toyota GAZOO Racing GR Cup North American Championship and is now focused on the 2025 season. For sponsorship opportunities and more information about Spike Kohlbecker, visit SpikeKohlbeckerRacing.com.

About RVA Graphics Motorsports by Speed Syndicate

RVA Graphics Motorsports by Speed Syndicate competes in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and Toyota GR Cup North America. Established in 2007, the team began with an endurance racing program that led to two championships. In 2023, they expanded into professional sports car racing, fielding multiple entries in the Toyota GR Cup North America. The team is committed to developing young drivers both on and off the track to help advance their careers. For more information, visit www.RVAGraphicsMotorsports.com.

RACE OF CHAMPIONS MANAGEMENT ANNOUNCES “THE BULLRING” WYOMING COUNTY INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY DATES AND THE “FAMILY OF SERIES” SCHEDULES

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Official Release
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— Nearly 30 Nights of Racing and Over 70 Features for 2025 All Concludes at “The Shootout” at “The Bullring” Wyoming County International Speedway –

Buffalo, NY – (January 17, 2025) – Race of Champions and “The Bullring” Wyoming County International Speedway management have agreed on the 2025 schedule, which will conclude much of the scheduling for the 2025 Race of Champions “Family of Series” season.

The Race of Champions “Family of Series” will visit “The Bullring” on Saturday, May 24, which will signify the opening event for the Race of Champions Sportsman Modified Series. Saturday, June 14 and conclude the season on Saturday, October 4, with “The Shootout”, the traditional closing event to the regions asphalt racing programs.

The Race of Champions “Family of Series” will compete in nearly 30 nights of racing, running over 70 features for the 2025 season.

Highlights include a return to Evans Mills Raceway Park for the Modified Series as well as the Saturday, October 11 Race of Champions at Thompson (CT) Speedway Motorsports Park.

The announcement of the Sportsman Modified Series “Triple Crown” events. The “Triple Crown” will include the George Decker Memorial at Holland (NY) Speedway, the Maynard Troyer Classic IV at Spencer Speedway in Williamson, NY and the Sportsman Modified Series portion of Race of Champions Weekend at Lake Erie Speedway in Northeast, PA. Each race will pay a minimum of $3,000-to-win with more information regarding these events to come.

The Race of Champions Late Models; Super Stock; Street Stock; FOAR SCORE Four Cylinder Dash; Rocket Performance 602 Sportsman Modified and Dirt 602 Sportsman Modified Series will all once again play an integral roles in the 2025 season.

All Race of Champions “Family of Series” events will continue be streamed on RoCModifiedSeries.TV powered by Racing America in 2025. For more information in regard to the Racing America streaming platform visit; offer.racingamerica.com/race-of-champions/. In addition to the entire year featuring all Race of Champions Series races, subscribers will receive access to 200+ live short track races from tracks across North America as well as expanded media coverage throughout the sport and more than 10 years of short track racing archives. (www.racingamerica.tv)

The Race of Champions is a sanctioning body presenting Modified and Stock Car racing on asphalt and dirt surfaces throughout the Northeast, with events in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey with primary marketing partners Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, Racing America, Airport Collision, Rocket Performance, Waddell Communications, Image X Design, Sherwood Racing Wheels, DirtTrackDigest.com and Speed Sport. The 72nd and 75th annual Race of Champions weekend will take place in 2025 and remains the second longest consecutive auto-racing event in North America, second only to the Indianapolis 500.

GMG Racing Debuts in IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge at Daytona International Speedway

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Official Release
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  • Kyle Washington Drives No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R in Saturday and Sunday 45-Minute Doubleheader Sprint Races in Debut of New GT Daytona X (GTDX) Class for GT3 Cars
  • VP Racing Challenge Debut Begins Dynamic and Diverse 2025 Sports Car Racing Season for Race and Championship Winning GMG Racing Team

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (January 16, 2025) – Championship-winning sports car racing team GMG Racing adds another racing series to its broad competition lineup with the team’s debut in the IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge this weekend at Daytona International Speedway (DIS). Longtime team driver Kyle Washington pilots the No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R in a doubleheader lineup of 45-minute sprint races Saturday and Sunday at DIS in the all-new GT Daytona X (GTDX) class for GT3 cars.

No strangers to single-driver sprint race success, Washington and GMG Racing Founder and Principal James Sofronas have contested several different sprint race series the last few years, including race-winning and podium-finishing results in the IMSA Carrera Cup North America championship.

“In our nearly 25 years of competition, GMG Racing has proudly excelled in all types of sports car racing,” Sofronas said. “From multiple driver endurance events to 90-minute GT World Challenge races with two drivers to a variety of single-driver sprint race series, we have always raced with intensity and a great desire to win in any format. With GT3 machinery added to the VP Racing Challenge series this year, we didn’t hesitate to add another IMSA sprint-based series to our packed annual competition schedule. The Daytona weekend and entire 2025 racing season can’t come soon enough for us.”

In last October’s season-finale Carrera Cup weekend at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), Washington stepped up for his best race finish of the year with a Masters Class second-place result in the weekend’s opening race. The P2 finish topped Washington’s third-place showing in the Carrera Cup support race at the Canadian Grand Prix Formula 1 race in June and his first third-place run of 2024 in the season-opening Carrera Cup race weekend last March in Sebring.

Washington won in 2024 in Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West sprint race competition at Utah Motorsports Campus. He and teammate Tom Sargent also co-drove to their first GT World Challenge Pro-Am race win last July at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR).

A full three-day race weekend, the VP Racing Challenge Daytona schedule calls for a pair of 40-minute practices on Friday. Qualifying takes pace at 8:40 a.m. EST Saturday to set the stage for that afternoon’s first 45-minute race at 2:00 p.m. EST. Sunday’s second sprint at 1:20 p.m. EST closes the VP Racing schedule, and both races stream live Saturday and Sunday on NBC’s Peacock.

About GMG Racing: Founded in 2001, GMG Racing quickly established itself as North America’s premier performance tuning facility. What began as a small 1,200 sq. ft. shop, maintaining two race cars, has grown into a state-of-the-art performance tuning, racing and service facility recently relocated to The Thermal Club and with a 28,000 sq. ft. trackside motorsports facility. The staff, attention to detail and passion are what make GMG the choice of professionals and enthusiasts worldwide. GMG, in its early years, was located directly across the street from Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA). This close proximity allowed GMG to build a strong relationship with the legendary racing brand which has helped the company support its customers to the highest level possible. From club racing to Sebring, Daytona, Montreal, COTA and The Thermal Club, GMG can take you as far as you want to go. More information can be found at www.gmgracing.com.

Bass Pro Shops and Martin Truex Jr. Reunite For 2025 Daytona 500

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Official Release
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Future Hall of Famer will drive the Bass Pro Shops No. 56 Toyota Camry XSE as he chases victory at the “Great American Race”

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Jan. 16, 2025) – Bass Pro Shops announced today that it will be the primary sponsor for longtime partner Martin Truex Jr. for the 67th running of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 16.

Daytona will reunite the winning team that has been together since 2001 and included such career highlights for Truex as the 2017 Cup Series championship, the 2017 and 2023 Cup Series regular-season championships and the 2004 and 2005 Busch Series championships. His 34 race victories over a 21-year career include the 2016 and 2019 Coca-Cola 600 and the 2016 Southern 500.

“We are fired up to be back with Martin again at Daytona,” said Johnny Morris, noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder. “We have had so many unforgettable moments throughout our more than 20-year relationship with Martin, on the track and out hunting and fishing together, and are looking forward to supporting him and conservation this year at Daytona!”

Truex announced his retirement from full-time racing last June, capping a memorable career that included nearly 700 NASCAR Cup Series races and will undoubtedly land him in the Hall of Fame. He was named one of 75 Greatest Drivers by a NASCAR panel in 2023.

“It’s such a blessing to have Bass Pro Shops with us again,” Truex said. “Johnny Morris and the entire Bass Pro family have supported me throughout my career, and I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish what I did without them in my corner. I can’t thank them enough for being by my side as we go back to Daytona.”

Truex will be driving the No. 56 Bass Pro Shops Toyota Camry XSE with Tricon Garage as it attempts to make its Cup Series debut at the “Great American Race” at Daytona International Speedway.

Daytona Speedweek will kick off with practice and qualifying on Wednesday, Feb. 12, followed by the Duels on Thursday, Feb. 13. The Daytona 500 will be televised live on FOX on Sunday, Feb. 16 at 2:30 p.m. ET, with radio coverage provided by the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

A long and storied history of NASCAR partnerships

Bass Pro Shops has been a proud NASCAR sponsor and partner for the last 25-plus years. In addition to Truex, drivers sporting the Bass Pro Shops logo include legends like Dale Earnhardt Sr., Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jamie McMurray, Ryan Newman, Austin Dillon and Noah Gragson.

Additionally, it has sponsored and hosted the wildly popular Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway since 2016.

About Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops is North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company. Founded in 1972 when avid young angler Johnny Morris began selling tackle out of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri, today the company provides customers with unmatched offerings spanning premier destination retail, outdoor equipment manufacturing, world-class resort destinations and more. In 2017 Bass Pro Shops united with Cabela’s to create a “best-of-the-best” experience with superior products, dynamic locations and outstanding customer service. Bass Pro Shops also operates White River Marine Group, offering an unsurpassed collection of industry-leading boat brands, and Big Cedar Lodge, America’s Premier Wilderness Resort. Under the visionary conservation leadership of Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops is a national leader in protecting habitat and introducing families to the outdoors and has been named by Newsweek as “America’s Most Trusted Retailer for Outdoor Gear.”

Trans Am Series Unveils GT1 Challenge For 2025

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Official Release
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Five-Race Challenge Creates Flexible Class for SCCA Club GT1 Cars

CHARLOTTE (January 16, 2025) — The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli announces the unveiling of a new class for the 2025 season. The GT1 Challenge will provide competitors that race in SCCA Club Racing’s GT1 class with an opportunity to compete for a title in the Trans Am Series with a shorter, more flexible schedule and reduced entry fees.

The GT1 Challenge is a class that focuses on offering vehicles competing in the SCCA Club GT1 class a way to easily cross over to Pro racing in the Trans Am Series. The GT1 Challenge allows drivers to compete in a maximum of nine races per season, with their five highest points-scoring races making up their championship points total. The driver with the most points accumulated in their five best races will be recognized and awarded a championship trophy at the year-end Trans Am Awards Gala in November.

Additionally, the GT1 Challenge will allow teams to use older equipment that is no longer eligible for the TA National Championship, providing car owners with more opportunities to utilize their current equipment. The GT1 Challenge will have more flexible vehicle eligibility, with fewer changes from their SCCA Club GT1 setups. Tube-frame vehicles with a silhouette body from 1982 or later that are legal for the SCCA Club Racing GT1 class will be eligible for this class. Drivers with current TA class cars that are unable to do the full National Championship schedule may also compete in this championship if their cars are prepared per the SCCA Club Racing GT1 class rules.

As an additional benefit to newcomers to the Trans Am Series, a rookie driver entered in the GT1 Challenge will have their TA class rookie status preserved throughout their first season, allowing them to move up to the TA class in the National or Western Championships and compete for Rookie of the Year honors.

“Due to the roots of the Trans Am Series being tied so closely to SCCA, we have always tried to foster crossover between our TA class and the SCCA GT1 class, and many of the TA teams do run in both the TA and GT1 classes throughout a season,” said TA Technical Director Aaron Coalwell. “As the current TA cars have developed, a performance gap between the current TA cars and the older cars competing in the GT1 class has developed. SCCA has balanced that performance difference through various weight adjustments. The new GT1 Challenge championship will utilize the same rules and weights as the SCCA GT1 class so that no setup changes need to be made to bring a GT1 car over to the Trans Am Series. Now that we have a separate championship for the GT1 cars, they will not be competing at a disadvantage with the cars currently in the TA class.

“It is said that the best way to improve your skills is to compete against better drivers,” Coalwell continued. “This makes it very easy for teams with GT1 cars to come out to the Trans Am races in their area, enjoy competing in a professionally-run series with longer races, and see how they stack up against the TA drivers.”

“I think this is an awesome chance to give GT1 competitors a chance to come together with Trans Am for an amazing combination of big V8-car racing that I know our fans will love,” said Trans Am President Andy Lally. “This is also a way for an older generation Trans Am car to compete on a more level playing field.”

Any parties interested competing in GT1 can reach out to Lally with any questions at ALally@GoTransAm.com.

The Trans Am Series will kick off the 2025 season with the Sebring SpeedTour at Sebring International Raceway, February 20-23.

About the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli: The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli is the longest-running professional road racing series in North America. The Trans Am Series was founded in 1966 for racing factory pony cars on iconic road courses. More than 55 years after the series’ launch, Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers continue to be sold today, with Trans Am racing credited as playing a major role in their success and longevity. With several diverse and competitive classes of racecars and both National and Western Championships, Trans Am offers something for every fan and every competitor. The series will host 15 events nationwide in 2025. For more information, visit GoTransAm.com.

2025 Trans Am Series Schedule

SPENCER SPEEDWAY TO OPEN WITH 35TH ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO TOMMY DRUAR AND TONY JANKOWIAK 110

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Official Release
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  • 110 Laps of Race of Champions Modified Series Action to Open 70th Season at Spencer –

Williamson, N.Y. – (January 16, 2025) – Race of Champions management along with the Druar and Jankowiak families have agreed to run the “35th Annual Tribute to Tommy Druar and Tony Jankowiak 110” on the 70th annual opening night at Spencer Speedway in Williamson, NY, on Friday, May 23rd.

The race was postponed twice in 2024 at Lancaster (NY) Motorplex and will now take place on Friday, May 23 at Spencer Speedway. The 36th annual Tribute to Tommy Druar and Tony Jankowiak 110 will take place later in the Summer at Lancaster on Saturday, August 16.

“This race is very important to the families associated with it,” stated Joe Skotnicki, Race of Champions. “The families wanted to make sure it was run and we came to an agreement to make it possible as a highlighted event and part of the Spencer Speedway schedule. It is an honor to host this event. We are looking forward to a great night to celebrate two of the greatest competitors in our region as well celebrate the sport they loved.”

This event completes the scheduling process for the Race of Champions Modified Series in 2025.

Six (6) events will highlight the 2025 schedule at Spencer Speedway along with an open practice early in the season.

The “Food Truck Frenzy” featuring local food trucks and tastes from the area will also make its return with some unique additions.

Advanced discount tickets will be available online at MyRacePass on the Race of Champions website; www.rocmodifiedseries.com. Skip the lines by purchasing tickets online and the Series management will be creating a “Season Ticket” which will be announced and eligible for purchase in the New Year.

All Race of Champions “Family of Series” events will be streamed on RoCModifiedSeries.TV powered by Racing America. For more information in regard to the Racing America streaming platform visit; offer.racingamerica.com/race-of-champions/. Subscribing provides fans who “tuned in” to every Race of Champions Modified Series event in 2024 the entire year featuring all Race of Champions Series races, plus access to 200+ live short track races from tracks across North America as well as expanded media coverage including NASCAR and more than 10 years of short track racing archives. (www.racingamerica.tv)

The Race of Champions is a sanctioning body presenting Modified and Stock Car racing on asphalt and dirt surfaces throughout the Northeast, with events in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey with primary marketing partners Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, Racing America, Airport Collision, Rocket Performance, Waddell Communications, Image X Design, Sherwood Racing Wheels, DirtTrackDigest.com and Speed Sport. The 72nd and 75th annual Race of Champions weekend will take place in 2025 and is the second longest consecutive auto-racing event in North America, second only to the Indianapolis 500.

Follow us on Twitter; Instagram and Facebook; @RoCModSeries or visit our website: www.rocmodifiedseries.com

2025 Race of Champions Modified Series Schedule

Day Month Date Track
Saturday April 12 Lake Erie Speedway
Saturday April 19 Mahoning Valley Speedway
Saturday May 10 Chemung Speedrome
Friday May 23 Spencer Speedway
Thursday June 26 Lancaster Motorplex
Saturday July 5 Evans Mills Raceway Park
Friday July 11 Spencer Speedway
Saturday July 26 Holland Speedway
Saturday August 9 Chemung Speedrome
Saturday August 16 Lancaster Motorplex
Friday August 29 Spencer Speedway
Saturday September 13 Lake Erie Speedway
Saturday October 11 Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park

CONCHO VALLEY DRAGWAY JOINS NHRA MEMBER TRACK FAMILY IN DIVISION 4

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Official Release
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SAN ANGELO, TEXAS (Jan. 16, 2025) – NHRA officials are thrilled to announce the addition of Concho Valley Dragway to the NHRA Member Track Network in the NHRA’s South Central Division (Division 4).

Located in the heart of West Texas, Concho Valley Dragway has quickly become a hub for motorsport excitement. The Winger family, led by Mark Winger, transformed the track from concept to reality, emphasizing a commitment to safety, community and the future of drag racing, establishing the facility as a premier destination in the area.

“Becoming an NHRA Member Track solidifies our commitment to providing a safe, family-friendly environment for racing,” Concho Valley Dragway Owner Mark Winger said. “The NHRA brings a wealth of knowledge and resources that help tracks like ours thrive. With their guidance, we’re able to ensure the safety of our racers, the enjoyment of our fans, and the bright future of drag racing here in San Angelo.”

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

Joining the NHRA Member Track network also connects Concho Valley Dragway with a larger community of motorsport enthusiasts. Fans and racers can look forward to a packed schedule of thrilling competitions, exciting family events, and the opportunity to see some of the region’s best talent at the facility.

“The Winger family has shown incredible passion and perseverance in bringing Concho Valley Dragway to life,” NHRA Division 4 Director Jonathan Johnson said. “Their hard work and attention to detail have made this track not only a top-notch facility, but also a welcoming space for racers and fans alike. It’s an honor to welcome them to the NHRA Member Track family, and we’re excited to see the positive impact they’ll continue to make in the drag racing community.”

For more information about Concho Valley Dragway, including their event schedule for the season, visit www.conchovalleydragway.com. For more information on NHRA, including the 2025 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, 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.

Jimmie Johnson confirms his 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Race Schedule

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Official Release
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  • 7x NASCAR champion will campaign a two-race schedule in the No. 84 Carvana Toyota

STATESVILLE, N.C. (January 16, 2025) – Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB’s co-owner Jimmie Johnson announced today his racing plans for 2025.

Johnson, who ran nine NASCAR Cup Series races in 2024, will once again attempt the DAYTONA 500 on Feb. 16th marking his 22nd appearance in “The Great American Race.” Additionally, Johnson will race in NASCAR’s ‘longest’ event, the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, on May 25. Both races will have the branding and colors of Phoenix, Arizona-based Carvana on the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE, as the special partnership between Johnson and Carvana enters its fifth season together.

“I’m so proud of the relationship we have built with Carvana,” said Johnson. “They have always been supportive of my dreams and always find innovative ways to connect with fans. As my days behind the wheel of a racecar continue to wind down, the partnership with Carvana continues to celebrate my career and it’s such an honor.”

Not only will Johnson feel the homecoming vibes, but he will surpass a significant milestone. As he takes the green flag at Charlotte for 600 miles of racing action, it will mark his 700th NASCAR Cup Series start. It is such a fitting place to make a significant start at, noting that he has visited victory lane at Charlotte eight times throughout his career, four of which coming from the Coca-Cola 600.

Carvana, an industry pioneer for buying and selling used cars online, and a partner known for its innovative and thoughtful paint schemes, will announce Johnson’s livery in late January, just ahead of the two-time DAYTONA 500 winner’s return to the iconic Florida track.

“We’re incredibly excited to support Jimmie and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB for a third season,” said Ryan Keeton, Carvana’s co-founder and Chief Brand Officer. “Jimmie’s legacy in NASCAR is unparalleled, and our team is committed to creating a special livery that measures up to his 700th start milestone. Stay tuned for what we have in store!”

“I’m thrilled to be returning to competition in 2025,” said Johnson. “These two races hold a special place in my heart, and I’ve always loved the energy and excitement that surrounds them. The DAYTONA 500 is a crown jewel of NASCAR – there’s nothing like it. Charlotte Motor Speedway is where I made my first start in the NASCAR Cup Series, and it’s always felt like ‘home’ to me.”

The DAYTONA 500 will take place on Sunday, February 16, at 2:30 p.m. ET, live on FOX, kicking off the official start of the NASCAR Cup Series season.

ABOUT CARVANA: Carvana’s mission is to change the way people buy and sell cars. Since launching in 2013, Carvana has revolutionized automotive retail and delighted millions of customers with an offering that is fun, fast, and fair. With Carvana, customers can find a car, get financing, trade-in, and complete a purchase entirely online with the convenience of delivery or local pick-up as soon as the same day. Carvana’s unique offering is powered by its passionate team, differentiated national infrastructure, and purpose-built technology.

For more information, please visit www.carvana.com. 

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a premier auto racing organization co-founded by entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmie Johnson. Drawing from a rich tradition of success, LEGACY MC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and setting new standards of excellence. The club competes under the Toyota Gazoo Racing banner in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE piloted by Erik Jones and the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE driven by John Hunter Nemechek. Jimmie Johnson also races on a limited basis in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. With NASCAR legend and Hall of Famer Richard Petty – “The King” – serving as CLUB Ambassador, LEGACY MC blends timeless racing traditions with a new forward-thinking vision. As an inclusive community for motorsport enthusiasts, LEGACY MC honors both its storied past and the promising future of its members, always striving for victory and championship glory at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition. For more information: www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com 

Jimmie Johnson confirms two-race Cup schedule for 2025 season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Jimmie Johnson revealed his NASCAR Cup Series racing schedule for the 2025 season that will feature the seven-time champion from El Cajon, California, pilot his No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE entry from Legacy Motor Club (LMC), his own organization, for select events.

For the 2025 season, Johnson will attempt to qualify for this year’s 67th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, an event he has won twice (2006 & 2013), scheduled for February 16. He will then compete in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, an event he has won four times (2003-05, 2014), on May 25. During both events, Carvana will return to sponsor his entry.

The news comes as Johnson, who is in his third consecutive season as a co-owner of LMC, is coming off a nine-race Cup campaign during the 2024 season, which included competing in the Daytona 500, the Coca-Cola 600 and the series’ return of the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Throughout his nine-race campaign, the Californian notched an average-finishing result of 30.6 and recorded a season-best 26th-place finish during the season-finale event at Phoenix Raceway last November.

“I’m thrilled to be returning to competition in 2025,” Johnson said in a released statement. “These two races hold a special place in my heart, and I’ve always loved the energy and excitement that surrounds them. The DAYTONA 500 is a crown jewel of NASCAR – there’s nothing like it. Charlotte Motor Speedway is where I made my first start in the NASCAR Cup Series, and it’s always felt like ‘home’ to me.”

Johnson made his first three career starts in NASCAR’s premier series in the closing events of the 2001 season while driving the No. 48 Chevrolet entry for Hendrick Motorsports. Since becoming a full-time Cup competitor in 2002 before retiring from full-time competition in 2020, he established a Hall of Fame career that included winning 83 career events and seven championships, which placed him in a tie with Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt for the most Cup Series championships. Johnson is also the only competitor to win five of his titles in consecutive seasons, which he accomplished from 2006 to 2010.

After retiring from full-time NASCAR competition following the 2020 season, he spent the next two years competing in the NTT IndyCar Series with Chip Ganassi Racing before he returned to NASCAR competition on a part-time basis and in an ownership role for LMC that had been rebranded from Petty GMS Motorsports and Richard Petty Motorsports. During his inaugural season as a co-owner/driver of LMC, he competed in three Cup events, including the Daytona 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. He also represented Garage 56, a NASCAR-endurance team that involved Hendrick Motorsports, during the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans as he competed alongside former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button and former Le Mans champion Mike Rockenfeller.

Amid Johnson’s two-scheduled Cup starts in 2025, a significant milestone start is on the line. Should Johnson qualify for both of his crown-jewel events, he will become the 21st competitor overall to reach 700 starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

Since Johnson is entering this year’s Daytona Speedweeks without a charter for his No. 84 LMC Toyota entry, he will have to rely on either his speed during the Busch Light Pole Qualifying session on February 12 at 8:15 p.m. ET or through his result in the Daytona Duels scheduled for February 13 at 7 p.m. ET to outduel additional non-chartered entries and earn a starting spot for the Great American Race. Both sessions will air on FS1.

The 2025 Daytona 500 is scheduled for February 16 with a coverage time slated to commence at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

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