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JR Motorsports — NOAPS Nashville Superspeedway Preview

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Official Release
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JR Motorsports O’Reilly Auto Parts Team Preview
TRACK – Nashville Superspeedway (1.33-mile tri-oval)
NOAPS RACE – Sports Illustrated Resorts 250 (188 laps / 250.04 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, PRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 7:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Jarrett Chevrolet

Kvapil 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 15

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 4

Top 10s: 7

Laps Led: 51

Avg. Finish: 14.3

Points: 8th

Carson Kvapil will make his third start at Nashville Superspeedway this weekend in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. In his 2025 start at Nashville, he finished in the ninth position.

In 30 career starts on tracks that measure 1-2 miles in length, Kvapil has recorded seven top-fives and 12 top-10s.

Through 15 races in the NOAPS season, Kvapil sits eighth in the championship standings.

Jarrett, an industry leading third-party logistics provider, returns as a primary partner this weekend, for the first time on the No. 1 Chevrolet this season.

Carson Kvapil

“This No. 1 Jarrett team is ready for this weekend in Nashville. We have had great speed all year long on these kinds of tracks and the concrete surface really fits my driving style. Rodney (Childers, crew chief) and everyone on this Jarrett team have been working hard all week to give us a car that I know will be capable of running up front and contending for the win on Saturday.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 TradeMark Nitrogen / BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

Allgaier 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 15

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 10

Top 10s: 12

Laps Led: 372

Avg. Finish: 8.4

Points: 1st

Justin Allgaier heads to Nashville as the most recent NOAPS winner in “The Music City,” taking the checkered flag in dominating fashion in this event last year, sweeping both stages and leading for 101 of 188 laps.

Overall, Allgaier is a two-time winner in Nashville, scoring the win in 2022 to accompany last season’s triumph.

In 11 NOAPS starts at the concrete oval, Allgaier has amassed six top-fives and seven top-10s in addition to the two wins.

Heading into Nashville, Allgaier currently leads the NOAPS in wins (three), top-fives (10) and top-10s (12).

Justin Allgaier

“Nashville is such a fun track to race on. Since it made its return to the schedule, I feel like we have unloaded with a chance at the win each time we’ve hit the track. Hopefully that will be the case again this weekend with our co-branded TradeMark Nitrogen / BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet. I know that this group is ready for a bounce-back after last week and we just need to go out there and execute like we know we can.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 15

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 5

Top 10s: 8

Laps Led: 17

Avg. Finish: 10.3

Points: 7th

Sammy Smith has three starts at Nashville with the NOAPS with a best finish of 10th coming in this event last season.

In 57 starts on tracks measuring 1-2 miles, Smith has tallied two wins, nine top-fives, 27 top-10s and led 176 laps.

Smith currently sits seventh in the championship standings, only 13 points from sixth.

Pilot will share the TV panel this Saturday with Christenson Transportation, a local company based in Lebanon, TN and servicing all 48 contiguous states. Christenson is a premier family-owned truckload carrier with over 35 years of experience, specializing in full truckload hauling of high-value, time-sensitive freight.

Sammy Smith

“We had a fast No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet last year at Nashville and really the whole JRM team was fast. All five cars finishing in the top-10, along with a win is impressive so I have no doubt this No. 8 team will bring another fast car capable of getting the job done. We have an off-week next weekend so I’m looking forward to Nashville, finishing strong and heading into an off-week on a positive note.”

Kyle Larson

No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

Larson 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 4

Wins: 2

Top 5s: 4

Top 10s: 4

Laps Led: 477

Avg. Finish: 2.0

Points: N/A

Kyle Larson returns to JRM competition this weekend at Nashville behind the wheel of the No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet.

In four NASCAR O’Reilly Series starts this season for JRM, Larson has recorded two wins, four top-fives and led 477 laps.

Saturday’s race will mark Larson’s first NASCAR O’Reilly Series start at Nashville.

In five NASCAR Cup Series starts at Nashville, Larson has earned one win, three top-fives and led 329 laps.

Kyle Larson

“Nashville is a really challenging track because of how slick the concrete surface gets and how much tire management comes into play over a long run. It’s important to keep up with the balance as the track changes throughout the race and make sure you don’t lose rear grip over a run. I’m looking forward to working with Mardy (Lindley, crew chief) and all the guys on the No. 88 team again this weekend. Hopefully we can unload with good speed, keep making our HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet better throughout the day, and put ourselves in position to contend at the end.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Nashville Superspeedway: JR Motorsports has competed at Nashville Superspeedway a combined 40 times in the NOAPS. In those starts at the 1.33-mile tri-oval, the organization has recorded three wins, 14 top-fives and 24 top-10s. The average finish is 10.8.

Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith and Rajah Caruth will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / HMS WB + AB souvenir rig on Saturday, May 30 from 3:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. CT.

2026 Niece Motorsports NCTS Race Preview: Nashville Superspeedway

By
Official Release
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NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE PREVIEW: NASHVILLE SUPERSPEEDWAY

Event: Allegiance 200 (150 laps / 199.5 miles)
Round: 11 of 25 (Regular Season)
Track: Nashville Superspeedway
Location: Lebanon, TN
Date & Time: Friday, May 29 | 8:00 PM ET
Tune-In: FOX Sports 1 | NASCAR Racing Network (NRN) | SiriusXM Ch. 90

Team Stats & Notes

  • Niece Motorsports Nashville Stats:

NCTS Starts: 16; Wins: 1 (Carson Hocevar, 2023) Top-Fives: 3; Top-10s: 6.

No. 4 TCS Bus Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Stefan Parsons | Crew Chief: Mike Shiplett

  • Parsons Returns: Second-generation driver Stefan Parsons returns to Niece Motorsports this weekend driving the No. 4 Chevrolet Silverado. Parsons has competed in one prior race with the team (Phoenix, 2024) and has made five starts at Nashville Superspeedway across two series. It will be his first NCTS start of 2026.
  • Parsons’ Nashville Stats:

NOAPS Starts: 3; Best Finish: 15th (2022).

NCTS Starts: 2; Best Finish: 22nd (2022).

  • Shiplett’s Nashville Stats:

NCS Starts: 2; Best Finish: 26th (2022).

NOAPS Starts: 2; Best Finish: 22nd (2007).

NCTS Starts: 2; Best Finish: 22nd (2025).

  • On the Truck: Parsons’ No. 4 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from TCS Bus, a company which specializes in charter bus and entertainer coach services.
  • Recapping Charlotte: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and the J.F. Electric team had a roller coaster day in Charlotte, but made the most out of it and nabbed another top-10 finish. Stenhouse Jr. rolled off from the trunk of the field due to the qualifying metric system, but he quickly found a way forward. The No. 4 Silverado broke into the top-10 on several occasions, but received damage late in the race after contact on restarts. Stenhouse Jr.’s pit crew made damage repairs which kept him in the hunt, and the Cup Series veteran was able to rally back for a solid ninth-place result.
  • Roles Reversed: Parsons’ full-time role is spotting for Connor Zilisch and the No. 88 Trackhouse Racing team on Sundays. On Friday, however, Zilisch will serve as Parsons’ eyes in the sky as the spotter for the No. 4 team. It will be the young rookie’s first time spotting on an oval – but he has experience spotting on road courses.
  • Quoting Parsons: With Nashville being a concrete track, how does the racing compare to a typical intermediate track?

“Track position is definitely important at Nashville. It’s a little better since they’ve been laying resin down because we are able to move around a little bit, but you definitely want to make sure you can get your truck rotated. That’s going to be really important for when you are in traffic. The most important thing is firing off well in practice and qualifying and getting up to speed. I haven’t been in a truck since Phoenix last year, so I need to go out there and get a good starting spot. Hopefully we can pick them off from there and make our way to have a good finish for our No. 4 TCS Bus Chevrolet.”

  • Quoting Zilisch: On spotting for Parsons and the No. 4 team.

“It’s going to be a lot of fun experiencing something new. I’m glad that Stefan trusts me to do it. There’s a lot of guys who could probably do it better than me but it’s going to be cool to do that and learn what it’s like from a new perspective. I’ve spotted on road courses and at the Cup race at Indy but leading the charge at the truck race at Nashville is going to be different.”

What are the do’s and don’ts of being a good spotter?

“I think it’s a little easier as a driver to be a spotter than just having no experience at all. I know what a good spotter sounds like and as a driver what I want to hear. I think not being panicked and staying calm and feeding the information when I can without talking too much. I feel like I have a good understanding of what I need to do. I hope I’m able to relay the information that I need to throughout the good situations and the bad. Stefan is a really good dude and helps me a lot as a driver in the Cup Series with the notes that he takes.”

About Transportation Charter Services: Transportation Charter Services (TCS), headquartered in Orange County, California, has been a trusted leader in group passenger transportation since 1988.

With a modern fleet and an unwavering commitment to safety, cleanliness, and service excellence, TCS delivers premium motorcoach transportation paired with a first-class customer experience. The company proudly serves professional and collegiate sports teams, tour and travel clients, corporate organizations, high-profile special events, and elite clientele throughout Southern California, Western Canada, and Nashville’s entertainer coach market.

Combining decades of industry expertise with a forward-thinking approach to innovation and operational excellence, TCS continues to elevate the standard in luxury ground transportation. As part of a distinguished family of brands — including Royal Coach, serving San Jose, Las Vegas, and Phoenix, and Polynesian Adventure in Hawaii — TCS remains a premier provider known for exceptional service, reliability, and professionalism.

No. 42 Comprehensive Logistics Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Tyler Reif | Crew Chief: Landon Polinski

  • Reif Returns: Tyler Reif will make his fifth start of the season behind the wheel of the No. 42 Silverado this weekend at Nashville Superspeedway. Reif’s best finish so far this season came in his last race at Watkins Glen International, where he finished in 14th-place.
  • Reif’s Nashville Stats:

Tyler Reif will make his first-career start in any series at Nashville on Friday.

  • Polinski’s Charlotte Stats:

Landon Polinski will call his first-career race as a crew chief at Nashville on Friday.

  • On the Truck: Reif’s No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Comprehensive Logistics. The company specializes in warehouse management logistics and has sponsored Niece Motorsports in several races this year.
  • Recapping Charlotte: Conner Jones and the Comprehensive Logistics team had some close calls throughout the race in Charlotte, but never gave up and earned a top-15 result. Jones started the time-shortened event in 22nd and was moving forward when he received damage on the right front of his truck in the opening stage. Jones nearly avoided a spinning truck on the backstretch, but picked up additional damage after getting slightly clipped on the right side. The No. 42 crew repaired his truck and made adjustments to tighten the handling up for the final run to the checkered. Jones crossed the line in 14th-place – marking his best finish of the year so far.
  • Owner Points Outlook: Jones’ 14th-place finish at Charlotte elevated the No. 42 team one position in the owner point standings – now up to 25th-place. The team is 15 points behind Niece Motorsports’ No. 44 team in 24th, and is four points ahead of Rackley W.A.R.’s No. 26 team in 26th. Entering Nashville, the team is 113 points below the Chase cutline.
  • Quoting Reif: The only concrete track that you’ve ever raced on is Bristol, so what have you been focusing on in terms of preparation for your first laps at Nashville?

“I’m trying to do everything in my power to study up on Nashville with my spotter, TJ Majors. Luckily, with TJ having connections in the Cup Series world, he has access to a lot of data from those races along with past truck races. We’ve already gone over a lot of that, and I’m sure we will go over it the night before the race. That stuff isn’t as good as practicing or seeing the track in real life, but it should be beneficial for me when we unload our Comprehensive Logistics Chevy. I’m excited for Friday night.”

About Comprehensive Logistics: Comprehensive Logistics (CLI) is a full-service inbound-to-manufacturing logistics partner specializing in high-volume, high-velocity, and highly complex operations, including warehouse management, value-added services, sequencing, transportation, and sub-assembly manufacturing. By integrating advanced technology, data-driven insights, and process engineering with experienced teams, CLI delivers high-precision, reliable logistics solutions tailored to evolving customer needs. For more information, please visit complog.com.

No. 44 Acceptance Insurance Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Andres Perez de Lara | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers

  • Pérez de Lara’s Nashville Stats:

NCTS Starts: 1; Best Finish: 19th (2025).

  • Rogers’ Nashville Stats:

NOAPS Starts: 11; Poles: 1 (Randy LaJoie, 2003); Top-Fives: 2; Top-10s: 4; Best Finish: 4th (twice – 2001 & 2003).

NCTS Starts: 5; Top-10s: 2; Best Finish: 7th (2004).

  • On the Truck: Pérez de Lara’s No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Acceptance Insurance, who serves as the team’s anchor partner this season.
  • Recapping Charlotte: Andrés Pérez de Lara and the Acceptance Insurance team showcased resilience in Charlotte. Pérez de Lara had to start towards the rear of the field once qualifying was cancelled due to rain, but he navigated through the pack in the opening stage. The No. 44 truck had speed, and his pit crew gained him spots on multiple occasions. While running just outside the top-10 in the final stage, however, Pérez broke loose while running under another truck and went for a spin. Luckily, the truck did not sustain any damage, and Pérez was able to continue on in the race. He was credited with a 19th-place finish.
  • Driver Points Outlook: Pérez de Lara’s 19th-place finish at Charlotte dropped him two positions in the driver point standings. Now sitting in 17th-place overall, Pérez de Lara is eight points behind Grant Enfinger in 16th, and 21 points ahead of Dawson Sutton in 18th. The sophomore driver is 40 points below the Chase cutline heading into the 11th race of the season in Nashville.
  • Quoting Pérez de Lara: What characteristics separate this track from most others on the circuit?

“Nashville is smaller than a mile-and-a-half track, so there’s a lot more involved when it comes to how you have to approach the corners here. I think the fact that this place is concrete makes it trickier than what we’re used to. There’s a track in Mexico called Aguascalientes that is exactly the same. It feels very similar, and I’ve won there before in the NASCAR Mexico Series, so that gives me confidence. Last year, we didn’t have a great race here, but I feel like if we have a good handling Acceptance Insurance Chevy this weekend, we can put together a good race. Pit stops are going to be important here, and our pit crew is really good, so I’m looking forward to it.”

About Acceptance Insurance: Acceptance Insurance is a proud member of Confie, the largest personal lines agency in the U.S. We believe in investing in the communities we serve by offering affordable insurance solutions so our customers can have peace of mind. Our agents and team members uphold our values, which include promoting excellence, responsibility and caring.

Acceptance has been in business for over 50 years. We have over 700 agents in over 288 neighborhood locations ready to give you the service, respect and savings you deserve. We come to you so you can find the solutions you need, regardless of your background and driving record. We offer easy solutions to meet your unique needs.

No. 45 Use Your Melon Tennessee Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Ross Chastain | Crew Chief: Phil Gould

  • Chastain’s Nashville Stats:

NCS Starts: 5; Wins: 1 (2023); Poles: 1 (2023); Top-Fives: 3; Top-10s: 3.

NOAPS Starts: 2; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 1; Best Finish: 5th (2025).

NCTS Starts: 1; Best Finish: 21st (2021).

  • Gould’s Nashville Stats:

NCTS Starts: 5; Wins: 1 (2023); Top-Fives: 2; Top-10s: 3.

  • On the Truck: Chastain’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from the Tennessee Highway Safety Office and the Use Your Melon campaign, which encourages fans to drive sober every time they get behind the wheel.
  • Recapping Charlotte: Ross Chastain and the Protect Your Melon team contended for the race win in Charlotte, but unfortunately were not able to finish. Chastain started mid-pack, but it did not take him long to find the leaders. Noting a tight-handling truck, the team made adjustments to free Chastain up in the second stage where he moved up to third. After contact from another competitor on the backstretch, Chastain’s right front tire deflated and prompted him to lose track position in the final stage. Through strategy, the No. 45 made it back into the top-five once again, but the battery became disconnected in the closing laps of the race. With too little time to change it out, the team was done for the day in 29th-place.
  • Owner Points Outlook: Charlotte dropped the No. 45 team two positions in the owner point standings. Ahead of Nashville, the team is seeded in eighth-place overall. They are three points behind Front Row Motorsports’ No. 38 team in seventh, and 23 points ahead of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 team in ninth. The team currently has a 30-point gap above the Chase cutline.
  • Quoting Chastain: Nashville is a track that you haven’t raced a truck at in a while, and the traction compound has changed since then. How big of a difference does that make?

“This weekend will be my first time back there in a while in the truck, so I’ll be going off what Phil Gould has done there in the past. I’ve never driven for him there before, so I’ll be curious to find out how his truck drives. Nashville is a flat track that feels like it’s a mile-and-a-half, but we’re slowing down for the corners a lot. We’re off the gas way more than a bigger track, then it’s important for us to get back on the gas and get the truck pointed. I don’t really know what to expect, but I’ll learn a lot more as I run throughout the weekend.”

About the Tennessee Highway Safety Office: The Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) is a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security advocating for traffic safety. The THSO works in tandem with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to implement statewide programs addressing occupant protection, impaired driving, speed enforcement, pedestrian and bicycle safety, and crash data collection and analysis. Programs administered by the THSO are 100 percent federally funded. The THSO’s mission is to effectively develop, implement, and evaluate these programs. To learn more, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team that has competed in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series since 2016. The team is owned by Josh Morris of DQS Solutions and Staffing and the Fowler Family of J.F. Electric and Utilitra, and was founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a full-service race vehicle build shop 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).

Front Row Motorsports: Nashville Superspeedway NCTS Race Advance (Layne Riggs / Chandler Smith)

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Official Release
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Layne Riggs | Chandler Smith
Nashville Superspeedway NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race Advance
Allegiance 200

Date: Friday, May 29, 2026
Event: Race 11 of 25
Series: NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series
Location: Nashville Superspeedway (1.3-miles)
#of Laps: 150
Time/TV/Radio: 8:00 PM ET on FS1/SiriusXM channel 90

FRM Points Standings:

Layne Riggs (2nd)
Chandler Smith (5th)

Layne Riggs Notes

Coming off of their Charlotte Motor Speedway win, Layne Riggs and the No. 34 team look ahead to the Nashville Superspeedway for the venue’s 150-lap race. In three previous NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at the 1.3-mile oval, Riggs’ best finish came in the 2025 event, finishing third. Heading into Friday’s race, Riggs is second in the standings, just 11 points behind leader Kaden Honeycutt.

Love’s Travel Stops returns with Riggs and the No. 34 team for Friday’s race. Love’s Travel Stops rolls out a major update to the Love’s App, introducing a unified Love’s Rewards program that now benefits every customer who stops at Love’s. Whether fueling up, grabbing a snack, or stocking up on Love’s-branded products, customers can now save and earn points at every turn simply by scanning the Love’s App in-store or at the pump. The new Love’s Rewards program focuses on delivering meaningful value at every stop and aims to make Love’s the first stop drivers think of on the road. Love’s Rewards App users can also save 10¢ per gallon on gas and up to 25¢ per gallon on auto diesel. Fans can download the app from Google Play and the Apple App Store. To explore all the new benefits of the Love’s Rewards program, visit www.loves.com/loves-rewards.

Riggs and the No. 34 team will also have Fleetguard on the truck this weekend. A global leading filtration brand within the Atmus Filtration Technologies portfolio, Fleetguard offers a full suite of filtration products for nearly all makes of vehicles and equipment across the truck, bus, agriculture, construction, mining, marine, and power generation vehicle, and equipment markets. Fleetguard heavy-duty filters give customers the ultimate protection for all their equipment. With availability in more than 45,000 independent aftermarket retail outlets globally, including approximately 5,800 locations in North America, Fleetguard products are available where customers need them and are backed by the competitive Fleetguard warranty.

“Winning at Charlotte was an unbelievable feeling, that’s our home race,” said Riggs. “We’re heading into Nashville with a ton of momentum, and just 11 points from leading the standings, so it would be awesome to knock down another win and grab that lead. Nashville is a challenging track, but our mile and mile-and-a-half program has really picked up this season so I know Front Row Motorsports will bring a fast track, it’s just a matter of minimizing mistakes and being there in the end.”
Road Crew

Driver: Layne Riggs

Hometown: Bahama, North Carolina

Crew Chief: Dylan Cappello

Hometown: Peoria, Arizona

Truck Chief: Brandon Selph

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Engineer: Jonathan Coates

Hometown: Hudson, Ohio

Mechanic: Clark Houston

Hometown: Hickory, North Carolina

Mechanic: Robert Benzenhafer

Hometown: Niceville, Florida

Interior Specialist: Brian Sliney

Hometown: Milford, New Hampshire

Spotter: Josh Williams

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Transport Driver: James O’Neal

Hometown: Palm Bay, Florida

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Blake Hickman

Hometown: Ocala, Florida

Rear Tire Changer: Stephen Chereek

Hometown: Tuckerton, New Jersey

Tire Carrier: Alvin Wilson

Hometown: Lexington, Mississippi

Jackman: Kendall Futrell

Hometown: Greenville, North Carolina

Fueler: Patrick Gaddy

Hometown: Kannapolis, North Carolina

Chandler Smith Notes

Following the race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, Chandler Smith and the No. 38 team look to regain momentum this Friday in Nashville. Smith has two NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at the track with his best finish coming in 2024 with Joe Gibbs Racing, where he finished second. In the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, Smith has three starts. His best finish came in 2025 driving the No. 38 Ford, where he started 23rd and finished seventh.

Matheus Lumber will join Smith for the event. Founded in 1932, and family owned and operated ever since, Matheus Lumber Inc. is a premier supplier of forest products and building materials serving customers nationwide. Matheus proudly operates as a mill-direct distributor for the multifamily, mixed-use, and commercial construction markets, offering full-scope construction packages that include framing lumber, sheathing, engineered wood products, engineered trusses, rough framing hardware, building envelope systems, exterior siding and trim, windows, railings, and exterior doors. In addition to its construction expertise, Matheus also supports industrial customers with materials for bridge construction, pier and marina assembly, crane mats, and concrete form applications.

“Charlotte didn’t go as planned, and as a result we dropped a little bit in the standings, but there was a lot of positives to take away from that race,” said Smith. “Our mile-and-a-half program is getting stronger. It gives me a lot more confidence heading into Nashville knowing that our shop is churning out fast Fords that can be there in the end in any given race. I made a mistake on my end, in Charlotte, but all I can do is put that race behind me and take full advantage of the opportunities ahead, in Nashville.”
Road Crew

Driver: Chandler Smith

Hometown: Talking Rock, Georgia

Crew Chief: Jon Leonard

Hometown: Vinton, Iowa

Truck Chief: Ron Schutte

Hometown: Shakopee, Minnesota

Engineer: Roland Kummel

Hometown: Mitterberg, Austria

Mechanic: Rowan Mason

Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska

Mechanic: Mahlon Borkholder

Hometown: Ulysses, Pennsylvania

Interior Specialist: Kyle Clark

Hometown: Ashville, North Carolina

Spotter: Ryan Blanchard

Hometown: Bethlehem, Connecticut

Transport Driver: Mark Hadley

Hometown: Panama, New York

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Josh Francos

Hometown: Weirton, West Virginia

Rear Tire Changer: Curtis Thompson

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Drew Baum

Hometown: Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania

Jackman: Shane Perry

Hometown: Holly Springs, North Carolina

Fueler: Anthony Bryarly

Hometown: Columbiana, Ohio

ABOUT LOVE’S TRAVEL STOPS

Love’s has been fueling customers’ journeys since 1964. Innovation and perseverance continue to lead the way for the family-owned and -operated business headquartered in Oklahoma City with more than 40,000 team members in North America and Europe. The company’s core business is travel stops and convenience stores with 640 locations in 42 states. Love’s continues its commitment to offer products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, four-wheel customers, RVers, alternative fuel and wholesale fuel customers. Giving back to communities Love’s serves and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workplace are hallmarks of the company’s award-winning culture.

ABOUT MATHEUS LUMBER

Founded and family owned since 1932, Matheus Lumber Inc. is a premier supplier of forest products and building materials. Matheus is proud to serve as a comprehensive mill-direct distributor to Multifamily, Mixed-Use, and Commercial sectors nationwide. Our experience as a full-scope vendor allows us to provide complete construction packages to include: framing lumber, sheathing, EWP, engineered trusses, rough framing hardware, building envelope, exterior siding and trim, windows, railings, and exterior doors. In addition, Matheus also serves the Industrial consumer with materials for bridge construction, pier and marina assembly, crane mats, and concrete form.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization competing in the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Founded in 2004 by entrepreneur Bob Jenkins, FRM has earned top honors including a 2021 Daytona 500 victory and the 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series championship. Based in Mooresville, N.C., FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and No. 38 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, along with the No. 34 and No. 38 teams in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. For more information, visit FrontRowMotorsports.com and follow Front Row Motorsports on social media — X: @Team_FRM, Instagram: @teamfrm, Tik Tok: @Team_FRM, YouTube: @FrontRowNASCAR, and Facebook: facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

What Motorsports Fans Should Know About Vehicle Maintenance

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

Watching a high-performance stock car or an open-wheel racer tear around a circuit at high speeds highlights the absolute peak of automotive engineering. In professional closed-course competition, split-second decisions and microscopic mechanical tolerances make the difference between a podium finish and a premature exit. While daily commuting is vastly different from navigating a speedway, the core principles of mechanical health remain identical. For racing aficionados, understanding how race-tested technology applies to personal cars and street motorcycles can transform their approach to routine upkeep.

Thermal Management and Fluids

On the tarmac, heat is the ultimate enemy. High-performance engines run at extreme operating temperatures, requiring specialized high-viscosity lubricants and highly efficient cooling assemblies to prevent catastrophic failure.

While a typical street commuter does not face the sustained high RPMs of an oval raceway or a winding course, thermal management is still vital. Engine oil acts as both a lubricant and a secondary cooling agent. Over time, heat degrades the chemical properties of oil, reducing its ability to protect moving metal parts. Car and bike enthusiasts should prioritize consistent oil changes, opting for synthetic blends that provide superior stability under temperature extremes.

Furthermore, the cooling loop deserves periodic inspections. A simple coolant flush prevents the buildup of deposits that can clog the radiator. This is particularly crucial in regions with diverse weather patterns, such as the Midwest. In an urban environment like Chicago, commuters frequently face brutal winter freezes followed by humid summer heat waves, putting immense pressure on hoses, thermostats, and water pumps.

Braking Systems: Friction and Force

A racing setup relies on its brakes just as much as its engine to maintain speed through corners. Competition configurations utilize carbon-ceramic materials or highly ventilated steel rotors capable of withstanding searing temperatures while avoiding brake fade.

On public streets, the demands on brakes are less extreme but far more frequent. City traffic, characterized by constant stop-and-go situations, subjects brake pads and rotors to continuous wear. Performance motorists and commuters should pay close attention to brake pedal or lever feedback. If the brake exhibits a spongy resistance, it commonly points to moisture or air in the lines, which diminishes stopping power. Systematically checking pad thickness and flushing the brake fluid every two years prevents performance degradation and helps the assembly remain responsive.

Suspension and Tire Dynamics

On the raceway, tires are the primary factor governing grip and lap times. Teams monitor tire pressure and tire temperature constantly, adjusting them to suit asphalt conditions.

For everyday commuters, particularly motorcycles, where contact patches are incredibly small, maintaining proper suspension and tire inflation is critical. Correct pressure secures even wear, optimizes fuel economy, and maintains predictable stability. Furthermore, pavement imperfections can easily disrupt structural geometry. In cities like Chicago, heavy winter snows and subsequent freeze-thaw cycles leave streets filled with severe asphalt craters. Hitting these obstacles can damage suspension forks, bend control arms, or knock wheels out of position. Consulting local powersports professionals like EPM Motorsports for specialized chassis checks and suspension analysis can help identify hidden damage prior to it leading to uneven tire wear or stability imbalances.

The Race-Inspired Upkeep Checklist

To help an everyday commuter run with the precision of a professional racing unit, followers of the sport can implement a structured service protocol. Here is a simple, professionally inspired checklist to follow:

  • Weekly Fluid Diagnostics: Inspect engine oil levels and check coolant transparency. Look for any discoloration that might indicate fluid contamination or early thermal breakdown.
  • Bi-Weekly Tire Inspections: Measure tire pressure when the rubber is cold to safeguard an optimal contact patch. Inspect tread depth and look closely for any uneven wear patterns.
  • Monthly Brake Assessments: Look through the wheel assembly to evaluate pad thickness. Pay close attention to any squeaking noises, grinding sensations, or soft lever resistance.
  • Seasonal Geometry Checks: Especially after navigating harsh winter seasons or encountering heavily damaged pavement, have the suspension setup inspected to prevent stability imbalances.

Sourcing Quality Care

A racing team relies on a skilled pit crew to maintain the equipment in prime condition. For everyday riders and motorists, finding experienced technical support is just as important. When upgrading components or tackling complex repairs, working with a dedicated facility that appreciates performance is highly beneficial. Professional technicians assure that service is completed with precision and a deep understanding of unique mechanical configurations.

Ultimately, proper vehicle care is about preserving the joy of the open pavement. By applying the disciplined mindset of a racing team to consistent care, speed

What Are Gearbox Bearings? Types, Symptoms & Replacement Tips

By
SM
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Gearbox bearings are important components in a gearbox. Without them, cars and other automotive systems cannot run smoothly. So, what are gearbox bearings? I am sure many of you will ask this question if you are not familiar with cars or gearboxes.

I understand this, so in this guide, I will explain gearbox bearings for automotive applications in detail. This includes their meaning, the difference between gearbox bearings and transmission bearings, gearbox bearing functions, the types of bearings used in gearboxes, and more.

After understanding gearbox bearings, if you want to buy them, you can contact BKZ Industry by submitting the form or sending an email to sales@bkzindustry.com. BKZ Industry is a bearing manufacturer with 2 factories, ISO 9001 certification, and 15 years of bearing manufacturing experience. It can provide the gearbox bearings you need.

Part 1. What Are Gearbox Bearings?

So let’s explain what gearbox bearings are. To understand gearbox bearings, you first need to understand what a gearbox is and its structure in a car or other automotive system. In automotive applications, the gearbox usually refers to the gearbox or transmission assembly. It can include the gearbox housing, input shaft, output shaft, clutches, gears, bearings, synchronizers, lubrication system, seals, and, in some designs, a differential or center differential.

gearboxes from bkz industry

So when we talk about gearbox bearings, they do not refer to one single type of bearing. They refer to different bearings used in different positions inside the gearbox or transmission assembly. Common examples include input shaft bearings, output shaft bearings, countershaft or layshaft bearings, gear shaft bearings, needle roller bearings for gears, clutch bearing / clutch-related bearing, differential bearings, pinion shaft bearings, and idler gear bearings, depending on the gearbox design.

Part 2. Gearbox Bearings vs Transmission Bearings: Are They the Same?

Now, you have a general idea of what gearbox bearings are. But when searching for gearbox bearings, you may also see another term: transmission bearings. So, are gearbox bearings and transmission bearings the same thing?

The answer is: they are closely related, but they are not always exactly the same.

In automotive applications, when the gearbox refers to the transmission assembly, and this assembly includes gear sets, shafts, bearings, synchronizers, clutches, lubrication system, seals, and a differential or center differential, you can use gearbox bearings and transmission bearings in a similar way.

However, if we look at the meaning more strictly, transmission bearings usually have a broader meaning.

Gearbox bearings usually refer to the bearings used in the gearbox section or gearbox assembly. They support rotating parts such as the input shaft, output shaft, countershaft, gear shaft, clutches, idler gears, pinion shaft, and differential assembly.

Transmission bearings can cover a wider range. They may include the gearbox bearings mentioned above, but they may also refer to bearings used in the final drive section or other rotating parts of the whole transmission system.

So, gearbox bearings can be considered one important group of transmission bearings. In simple words, gearbox bearings can be transmission bearings in automotive applications, but not all transmission bearings are limited to the gearbox section.

Part 3. Gearbox Bearing Functions

After understanding gearbox bearings, you may want to know their major functions. Here are the main ones:

  1. Supporting the Shafts: Gearbox bearings support rotating shafts, such as the input shaft, output shaft, countershaft, gear shaft, and pinion shaft.
  2. Reducing Friction: They reduce friction between rotating and stationary parts, helping the gearbox run more smoothly.
  3. Keeping Gear Alignment: Bearings help keep shafts and gears in the correct position, so the gears can mesh properly.
  4. Carrying Radial and Axial Loads: Gearbox bearings carry loads from gear rotation, torque transmission, and axial forces created by some gear designs.
  5. Reducing Noise and Vibration: Good bearings help reduce abnormal noise, vibration, and unstable shaft movement inside the gearbox.
  6. Improving Power Transmission Efficiency: By reducing friction and keeping rotating parts stable, bearings help the gearbox transfer power more efficiently.
  7. Protecting Gears and Internal Parts: Proper bearing support can reduce uneven wear and help protect gears, shafts, seals, and other gearbox components.

Part 4. Types of Bearings Used in Gearboxes

So, what types of bearings are used in automotive gearboxes? Gearboxes can use different bearing types depending on the shaft position, gear load, speed, available space, lubrication condition, and axial force. When the gearbox assembly includes the clutch system and differential area, the bearing types can be even more diverse.

Deep Groove Ball Bearings: Mainly used at the ends of the input shaft and output shaft. They support high-speed rotation and carry radial loads with limited axial load capacity.

Tapered Roller Bearings: Mainly used on the pinion shaft, differential assembly, and heavy-load shaft positions. They handle combined radial and axial loads.

Cylindrical Roller Bearings: Mainly used on the countershaft, gear shaft, and other heavy radial load positions. They provide stronger radial support than ball bearings.

Needle Roller Bearings: Mainly used inside gears, idler gears, and gear-to-shaft rotating positions. They save space while carrying high radial loads.

Angular Contact Ball Bearings: Mainly used where high speed and axial load support are both required. They may appear on some input shafts, output shafts, or precision gearbox designs.

Clutch Release Bearings: Used in the clutch system, usually between the clutch fork or actuator and the pressure plate. If the gearbox assembly includes the clutch system, they are a related gearbox bearing type.

Needle Roller Cage Assemblies: Mainly used inside idler gears, free gears, and compact gear support positions. They guide needle rollers and allow gears to rotate smoothly around the shaft.

Bronze Bushings: Not rolling bearings, but sometimes used as sliding supports. They may appear in low-speed support points, selector mechanisms, idler gear supports, or older gearbox designs.

Part 5. What are the Symptoms of a Bad Gearbox Bearing?

There are many signs of a bad gearbox bearing. Some symptoms are easy to notice, such as noise, vibration, or oil leakage. Other problems may require inspection by an experienced mechanic or gearbox engineer.

The table below can help you understand the common symptoms and what they may mean.

SymptomWhat It May Mean
Unusual noise from the gearboxWorn, damaged, or poorly lubricated bearings may create whining, grinding, humming, or rumbling noise.
Noise changes with vehicle speedIf the sound becomes louder as vehicle speed increases, the bearing on the shaft or gear support position may be worn.
Vibration during drivingDamaged gearbox bearings can cause unstable shaft rotation and transfer vibration to the gearbox or vehicle body.
Difficulty shifting gearsExcessive bearing wear may affect shaft alignment, making gear shifting rough, stiff, or difficult.
Gear slipping or poor engagementSevere bearing wear can cause gear misalignment and affect proper gear engagement.
Gearbox overheatingPoor lubrication, high friction, or bearing damage can increase the operating temperature inside the gearbox.
Metal particles in gearbox oilBearing wear, peeling, or surface damage may produce metal debris in the lubricant.
Oil leakage around the gearboxWorn bearings may cause shaft movement, which can damage seals and lead to oil leakage.
Burning smellOverheated gearbox oil or excessive friction inside the gearbox may create a burnt smell.
Complete gearbox failureIf the damaged bearing is not repaired in time, it may damage gears, shafts, seals, and the gearbox housing.

If these signs appear, the gearbox should be checked as soon as possible. 

Part 6. Can You Replace Gearbox Bearings?

When you notice the signs above, you may want to know whether gearbox bearings can be replaced. The answer is yes. Gearbox bearings can be replaced, but it is not a simple repair job.

Replacing gearbox bearings usually requires gearbox removal, housing disassembly, bearing inspection, correct bearing matching, shaft checking, and proper installation. If the bearing is installed incorrectly, it may cause noise, overheating, poor gear alignment, short service life, or early gearbox failure.

So, gearbox bearing replacement is usually handled by experienced mechanics, gearbox repair companies, or engineers who understand gearbox structure and bearing installation.

Part 7. How to Replace Gearbox Bearings?

This guide is only for mechanics, repair technicians, or engineers with experience in gearbox bearing replacement. The exact process may vary depending on the gearbox type, vehicle model, and bearing position.

StepWhat to Do
1. Diagnose the problemCheck gearbox noise, vibration, oil condition, leakage, shifting problems, and possible bearing play.
2. Remove the gearboxDisconnect the related parts and remove the gearbox from the vehicle or machine.
3. Disassemble the gearbox housingOpen the gearbox carefully and keep gears, shafts, spacers, washers, and other parts in the correct order.
4. Identify the damaged bearingFind the worn, noisy, loose, cracked, overheated, or contaminated bearing.
5. Check related partsInspect the shaft, gear teeth, bearing seat, housing bore, seals, and lubrication passages.
6. Remove the old bearingUse proper pullers, presses, or heating methods. Avoid damaging the shaft, housing, or gear parts.
7. Match the correct new bearingConfirm the bearing number, inner diameter, outer diameter, width, clearance, cage type, seal type, and load requirement.
8. Install the new bearingPress the bearing correctly on the right ring. Do not apply force through the rolling elements.
9. Reassemble and lubricateRebuild the gearbox with correct bearing fit, preload or clearance, seals, fasteners, and lubricant.
10. Test the gearboxCheck rotation, noise, vibration, temperature, leakage, and gear shifting after assembly.

Final Words

Now, you have a clear understanding of gearbox bearings, including where they are used, what types are common, what symptoms appear when they fail, and how replacement is usually handled.

If you need to buy gearbox bearings for repair, wholesale, OEM production, or industrial supply, you can contact BKZ Industry. We can help you match the required bearing number, size, and application details for your gearbox bearing needs.

NHRA POTOMAC NATIONALS: ELITE MOTORSPORTS EVENT PREVIEW

By
Official Release
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MECHANICSVILLE, Md. (May 26, 2026) – Elite Motorsports enters this weekend’s inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway with momentum after Aaron Stanfield and the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage / Melling Performance / Janac Brothers Racing team rallied to victory at the Route 66 Nationals.

Elite Motorsports Earns First Pro Stock Win of 2026

Stanfield, who entered race day at the NHRA Route 66 Nationals as the No. 7 qualifier, took down rival Matt Hartford, teammate and five-time Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin Jr., his father Greg Stanfield and six-time world champion Greg Anderson to take home the victory at Route 66 Raceway just outside of Chicago. It was Elite Motorsports’ first Pro Stock victory since six-time world champion Erica Enders brought home the Wally at the 2025 U.S. Nationals and it was Stanfield’s first win since the Nevada Nationals in the fall of 2024.

“For Elite Motorsports, that was a special win. Hopefully it kind of sets the tone for the rest of the year. But you’re only as good as your last race, so we have to keep our heads down and keep grinding,” Stanfield said. “We’ve definitely made some performance gains but I don’t feel like everyone else had the best weekend. So, I still think we have some work to do but it’s definitely a huge step in the right direction. It’s a huge confidence boost for the team and myself as a driver. It doesn’t matter where we’re at, what we’re doing, when I strap in the race car, I’m trying to do the absolute best I can do for all the guys and all our partners that allow us to be able to do all this. Losing’s not fun, it turns out, and we’ve got some very competitive guys and girls on our team, and we take it very personally when we’re not doing well. I do think the win allows everybody to take a breath and maybe see some light at the end of the tunnel.”

Elite Motorsports dominated race day with three of the four semifinal positions. As a result, Stanfield will be joined by father Greg Stanfield in the Janac Brothers entry and winningest female in motorsports history Enders in the #2Fast2Tasty Challenge during Saturday qualifying at Maryland International Raceway.

New Venue on NHRA Schedule

The Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series debut at Maryland International Raceway marks the second of four new tracks during NHRA’s 75th Anniversary campaign.

“It’s always a fun experience racing at a new facility. Everyone is relatively on the same playing field,” said Jeg Coughlin Jr. “We have made some performance strides at Elite and we are fresh off a No. 1 qualifying effort and #2Fast2Tasty win with Erica Enders and an impressive win with Aaron Stanfield in Joliet, Illinois, so I think we’re all looking forward to hitting Maryland International Raceway.”

After her No. 1 qualifying position, #2Fast2Tasty win and semifinal finish, Enders made a jump from seventh to fifth in the NHRA points standings.

“I believe we are taking steps in the right direction and I look forward to redeeming myself in Maryland. It should have been an all elite final at Route 66 Raceway and that’s on me. Aaron did a fantastic job for our team and I can promise you it’s our goal, to make sure Elite is victorious again,” said Enders.. “I’ve been doing this a long time. Pro Stock goes in cycles and it had just not been our cycle the last year and a half. We will never quit, we will never give up. I have the best team in the world and I would go down in flames with them, before I’d stand next to anyone else.”

“I haven’t raced at Maryland yet but I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve heard great things about the facility,” said Troy Coughlin Jr., who had a runner-up finish at South Georgia Motorsports Park, the first of the four new facilities on the 2026 schedule.

JEGS Named Presenting Sponsor

JEGS, a DTC, e-commerce retailer and distributor of high-performance automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, has been named the presenting sponsor of the NHRA Potomac Nationals. Founded in 1960 by drag racing champion Jeg Coughlin Sr., JEGS Performance has grown into one of the most recognized and trusted names in the automotive aftermarket industry. Six-time NHRA world champion Jeg Coughlin Jr., son to Jeg Sr., and versatile driver Troy Coughlin Jr., grandson to Jeg Sr. and nephew to Jeg. Jr., represent the family brand with JEGS Pro Stock entries

“Excited to head to the inaugural Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway this weekend and experience one of the East Coast’s fastest tracks,” Jeg Jr. said. “Having JEGS as the event sponsor, will add an additional element to perform and come home victorious on Sunday. I’m looking forward to seeing how we stack up in Maryland.”

“There’s definitely added motivation to drive my best for my team and the people of JEGS,” Troy Jr. said. “Everyone at Elite has been grinding hard and we’re ready to get after it. I’m hoping there’s a JEGS celebration in the winners circle this weekend.”

Competition at the NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS begins with four rounds of qualifying Friday at 1:30 and 4 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Eliminations are slated for Sunday at 11 a.m. Television coverage of the event will be on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) and FOX Broadcasting Network (FOX). Qualifying shows will air Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. ET on FS1. Eliminations will air Sunday at 3 p.m. ET on FOX.

What is the Cost of a Garage in Edmonton?

By
SM
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Photo provided by Complete Garage & Construction

Car garages are a smart investment for any homeowner. Car garages are great at protecting assets, increasing the home’s property value, and providing additional storage or hobby space. If you’re living in Edmonton or the surrounding Alberta region, continue reading to learn more about garage builders prices to better assess what’s best for you.

We recommend Complete Garage & Construction, which offers professional garage construction services with a wide range of customization options. This company serves homeowners in Edmonton and other nearby communities with custom garage construction solutions tailored to their needs.

Factors that Affect Garage Construction Costs

Garage construction costs can vary widely depending on numerous factors. Every project is different and requires special care to ensure it is done properly.

Garage Size

Undoubtedly, the biggest cost factor is the size of the garage. Generally speaking, each additional car space increases the overall cost, as more labor and materials are required. The most commonly chosen garage size is a double-car garage, as it meets the family’s needs while also providing space for tools and additional storage.

Additionally, if a garage is detached from the house, the garage site will require additional preparation to ensure a safe foundation, which heavily influences the total cost.

Estimated Costs*:

  • Single-car garages – approximately $15,000 – $25,000
  • Double-car garages – approximately $25,000 – $45,000
  • Large or fully custom garages – $50,000+

*As mentioned, costs can vary greatly and can either be much lower or higher depending on circumstances.

Material & Features

The materials used and the special features added during construction will also significantly affect the garage’s cost. Basic garages are much more affordable, but each additional upgrade or customization increases costs. A common feature added in Alberta is insulating the garage to deal with cold winter temperatures.

Common garage upgrades include:

  • Insulation
  • Custom roofs and/or siding
  • Heating systems
  • Additional windows, doors, and lighting options
  • Workshop areas
  • Storage lofts

While each upgrade will increase the total cost, they all provide comfort, improved quality of life, or additional utility for the garage.

Permits & Preparation

Before beginning construction, take some time to research whether you need permits and inspections. Edmonton has specific building regulations, and failure to comply could mean you spend a lot of money only to be forced to demolish it afterward. Additionally, site preparation is another key component before construction begins. Depending on the location and property, contractors may need to level the ground and prepare a concrete foundation in advance.

Why Quality is Important

When building a garage, choosing only the lowest price is not the best decision. Building a garage that lasts five years is very different from building one designed to withstand Edmonton’s climate for decades. A poorly built garage will likely be susceptible to problems such as poor insulation, structural issues, or moisture damage.

A professionally constructed garage at a good price means it is designed to last long-term. Benefits include better durability, reduced maintenance costs, and increased energy efficiency. Additionally, the overview and aesthetics can better align with the existing property to further increase its value.

Choosing the Best Garage Builder

Choosing a professional building company means not only getting the best, but you also have the extra peace of mind that the job will be done correctly. A professional garage contractor can provide assistance with:

  • Garage planning, design, and preparation
  • Applying for permits to meet garage construction regulations
  • Estimated garage construction timeline and material costs
  • Material recommendations
  • Custom garage designs and features

If you are in the market for a garage construction service in Edmonton or the surrounding area, look no further than Complete Garage & Construction. They are proven to provide custom garage construction services tailored to your needs.

Bottom Line

As you can see, garage construction costs depend on a wide range of factors. Investing in a professionally built garage can provide long-term value for the property, quality of life, and asset security.

Whether you want a simple detached garage or a large custom-built structure, careful planning and preparation are essential. Working with professional construction companies, like the one mentioned before, helps ensure that your future garage is built to last a lifetime in Canada’s harsh climates.

Carson Ferguson returns for second Truck career start at Nashville

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Andrew Boyd for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Carson Ferguson returns for a second NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series career start with Kaulig Racing this upcoming Friday, May 29, at Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon, Tennessee, for the Allegiance 200.

The 26-year-old Ferguson from Lincolnton, North Carolina, will pilot Kaulig Racing’s No. 25 Free Agent RAM 1500 entry. It’s the exact entry in which he made his Truck Series debut at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 10. He finished 21st after starting 29th.

Compared to the 0.533-mile oval short track venue of Bristol, Ferguson will make his first-ever start on a track that is a little above a single mile across NASCAR’s top three national touring series as he prepares to tackle the 1.330-mile tri-oval intermediate speedway venue of Nashville Superspeedway.

“I am a dirt racer who always watched NASCAR on television and dreamed of this opportunity,” Ferguson said. “Bristol was a dream come true. I learned so much at that amazing place, and it was a blast. Nashville Superspeedway is almost three times as big as Bristol, so it’s another huge learning curve, but I’ll give it everything I’ve got,” he said. “It’s an honor to get back in the No. 25 Ram 1500.”

Ferguson competes full-time in the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series for Paylor Motorsports. He is the only competitor to win all INEX Legends Cars nationals finals events, which he achieved in 2014. He is also a two-time Schaeffer’s Oil Spring Nationals Series champion. Ferguson claimed both the overall championship and the rookie-of-the-year title of the FASTRAK Racing Series in 2019.

He was also a contestant in Kaulig Racing’s inaugural “Race for the Seat” reality TV series. The goal was to achieve a full-time Truck Series ride with Kaulig and RAM for the 2026 season. Despite settling in the runner-up spot in the competition to Timothy “Mini” Tyrrell, Ferguson won the competition’s final event at South Boston Speedway. He won a $50,000 prize and claimed a seat with Kaulig for Martinsville Speedway in mid-October. Ultimately, Ferguson’s NASCAR Truck Series debut was bumped up six months in advance for Bristol.

Kaulig Racing launched its free-agent driver program ahead of its inaugural Craftsman Truck Series campaign in November 2025. The program features various competitors from multiple racing divisions and disciplines. Each will compete in at least a single Truck event in one of Kaulig’s RAM 1500 entries numbered 25. The competitors who compete in the entry will not compete for the 2026 Truck Series driver’s championship. But they will be evaluated on their on-track performance for a season-ending program prize.

Kaulig Racing’s No. 25 entry is currently led by crew chief Alex Yontz. It is ranked in 23rd place in the 2026 owner’s standings through 10 of the 25-race schedule. The entry is one of five fielded by Kaulig. It competes alongside the No. 10 entry piloted by Corey LaJoie, the No. 12 entry piloted by rookie Brenden “Butterbean” Queen, the No. 14 entry piloted by Mini Tyrrell, and the No. 16 entry piloted by Justin Haley.

Tony Stewart, Ty Dillon, Colin Braun, Corey LaJoie, Parker Kligerman, AJ Allmendinger, Clint Bowyer, and Travis Pastrana have piloted the entry at least once. Dillon is the only competitor who has piloted the No. 25 entry twice. Allmendinger has recorded the entry’s highest-finishing result of sixth place at Watkins Glen International in early May.

Kligerman is scheduled to make his second Truck start in the No. 25 entry next weekend at Michigan International Speedway (6/6). Jamie McMurray will pilot the entry for the series’ inaugural event at Qualcomm Circuit in San Diego, California (6/19). Kaulig’s selection and reveal of drivers for the remainder of this season remains to be determined.

The 2026 Allegiance 200 at Nashville Superspeedway is scheduled to occur on Friday, May 29, at 8 p.m. ET on FS1, NASCAR Racing Network, and SiriusXM.

The Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway Outlook and Picks

By
SM Staff
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Photo by Simon Scoggins for SpeedwayMedia.com

The NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) heads to Nashville Superspeedway for the Cracker Barrel 400 on Sunday, May 31, at 7 p.m. ET on Prime Video.

Last season, Chase Briscoe captured the pole with a lap of 164.395 mph (29.125 secs.), and Ryan Blaney combined a dominant performance and pit strategy to win the fifth annual running of the Cracker Barrel 400 on Sunday, June 1.

Track & Race Information for the Cracker Barrel 400

Race Purse: $11,233,037
Track Size/Type: 1.33 Mile Concrete Paved D-Shaped Oval
Banking/Turns: 14 degrees
Banking/Frontstretch: 9 degrees
Banking/Backstretch: 6 degrees

Length and Race Stages for the Cracker Barrel 400

Race Length: 300 laps / 399 miles
Stage 1 Length: 90 laps
Stage 2 Length: 95 laps (End on Lap 185)
Final Stage Length: 115 laps (Ends on Lap 300)

Who and what should you look out for at Nashville Superspeedway?

From 2021-2025, five different drivers have won the five NCS races at Nashville. Kyle Larson won the inaugural race on June 20, 2021; Chase Elliott won on June 26, 2022; Ross Chastain won on June 25, 2023; Joey Logano won on June 30, 2024; and Ryan Blaney won on June 30, 2025.

Kyle Larson leads all active drivers in average finish with a 5.2 in five starts, and Denny Hamlin leads the NCS in laps led with 344 laps led in five starts.

RankActive DriversAverage FinishRaces
1Kyle Larson5.25
2Zane Smith7.52
3Joey Logano8.65
4Carson Hocevar92
5Denny Hamlin95
6Ross Chastain10.45
7Bubba Wallace125
8William Byron13.65
9Christopher Bell145
10Daniel Suárez14.45

The Driver Picks for the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway

  • Denny Hamlin has two poles, two top fives, three top 10s, and an average finish of 9.200.
  • Tyler Reddick has one top five, two top 10s, and an average finish of 15.800.
  • Kyle Larson has one win, three top fives, five top 10s, and a series-best average finish of 5.200.
  • Joey Logano has one win, two top fives, four top 10s, and an average finish of 8.600.
  • Ryan Blaney has one win, two top fives, three top 10s, and an average finish of 16.800.

Spire Motorsports Allegiance 200 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In seven NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway, Spire Motorsports has earned one win and three top five finishes. Rajah Caruth took the checkered flag in last year’s Rackley Roofing 200 after leading 61 laps.
  • The Allegiance 200 will be televised live on FS1 Friday, May 29 beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 11th of 25 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Rajah Caruth – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Rajah Caruth will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado RST in Friday’s Allegiance 200 at Nashville Superspeedway.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • Caruth will pull double duty this weekend, where he’ll also race Jordan Anderson Racing’s No. 32 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Camaro in Saturday’s NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series’ Sports Illustrated Resorts 250.
  • Caruth competes full time in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and splits his driving duties between JR Motorsports and Jordan Anderson Racing. Over the first 15 races of the 2026 season, he has logged one pole, one top five, five top 10s and sits 13th in points.
  • The 23-year-old driver will make his fourth CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start at the 1.33-mile concrete oval. Last season, Caruth held off a hard-charging Corey Heim and Layne Riggs to earn his second-career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series victory. After hitting pit road for the final time in the third position, the No. 71 pit crew nailed the stop, putting their driver out front to start the Final Stage where he led the final 51 laps en route to the win.
  • Prior to the victory, the Winston-Salem (N.C) State University graduate qualified fifth and finished fourth in the 2024 event at Nashville. In his first visit to the facility in 2023, Caruth led his first lap in a NASCAR national series race on Lap 36, only to immediately report fuel pick-up issues and drop outside the top 20. He ultimately fell 32 laps down as the team addressed the issue.
  • In 75 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts, the Washington, D.C., native has racked up two poles, two wins, 10 top fives, 29 top 10s and paced the field for 259 laps.
  • Caruth will be at the controls of Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-089 Friday night. This is the same Spire Motorsports-prepared Chevy Silverado Carson Hocevar drove to Victory Lane last May at Kansas Speedway. Most recently, Kyle Busch raced this truck to a runner-up finish at Texas Motor Speedway.

Rajah Caruth Quote
How does it feel to return to Spire Motorsports and drive the No. 7 truck?
“I’m happy to be back in the building at Spire and see a lot of familiar faces. I wish it were under better circumstances but it’s still a privilege to be behind the wheel of the No. 7 Silverado. I hope we can continue to honor Kyle Busch with a winning effort this weekend.”

You won at Nashville last season and have run up front in all three starts. Why is it in your wheelhouse?
“To be honest, I’m not too sure. It is a great mix of speed like an intermediate track, and corners that share similarities to some short tracks across the country. I personally love the concrete tracks and expect Nashville is going to put on a great show.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Brian Pattie

  • Brian Pattie is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see a host of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel across the 2026 season.
  • Through the season’s first 10 races, the No. 7 team sits third in the division’s owner points standings on the strength of two wins, four top-five and six top-10 finishes.
  • Pattie has called three NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at Nashville Superspeedway, highlighted by a runner-up finish last season with Corey Day. He adds a pair of Cup Series races at the venue, where he secured a sixth-place finish in 2021 with driver Ricky Stenhouse.
  • The 51-year-old is familiar with Nashville’s Victory Lane after leading Reed Sorenson to a dominant first-career Xfinity Series victory in the March 2005 Pepsi 300. Sorenson qualified on the pole, led 197 of the event’s 225 laps, lapped up to the eighth position and managed a whopping 14.417 second margin of victory.
  • The 24-year industry veteran spent 14 seasons in NASCAR’s premier division. As a crew chief, he has amassed six wins in Cup Series competition, 11 in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and nine in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. He stands as one of 11 crew chiefs to win races across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.

Jesse Love – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Jesse Love will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Delaware Life Chevrolet Silverado RST in Friday’s Flote 200 at Nashville Superspeedway. Love is the defending NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion and full-time driver of Richard Childress Racing’s No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet.
  • Delaware Life is an insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings LLC, Delaware Life focuses on delivering a seamless experience for advisors. The company understands how important it is to find the right fit for every client, every situation and every individual need. Delaware Life is passionate about equipping advisors with annuities that give their customers peace of mind and a successful future, allowing them to plan, with confidence, for whatever’s next.
  • The 150-lap event will mark Love’s fourth CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start and first with Spire Motorsports. In three previous starts, he has recorded one top-five (Phoenix ’23) and one top-10 finish (Gateway ’23).
  • Love will pull double duty at Nashville this weekend, where he’ll also race the No. 2 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing in Saturday’s NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series’ Sports Illustrated Resorts 250. He is currently second in the division’s championship point standings and boasts six top-five and 10 top-10 finishes over the first 15 races of the 2026 campaign. Last weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Love started 17th and raced his way to a spirited runner-up finish.
  • The Menlo Park, Calif., native has made a pair of O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at Nashville Superspeedway, where he finished third in 2024 and eighth last season.
  • Love will drive Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-092 Friday evening in its third start. This is the same truck Carson Hocevar drove to Victory Lane earlier this season at Texas Motor Speedway.

Jesse Love Quote
You’ve only made three Truck Series starts, but already have a top-five and two top-10 finishes. What are your expectations heading into Nashville?
“I’ve ran well in the trucks and the couple of races that I did run, I came pretty close to winning. I’m not really sure why I adapt well to it, but I think it’s probably because it’s kind of similar to ARCA that I got to run a good bit of when I was younger so for whatever reason, when I do get to run a truck, it comes somewhat naturally to me. It seems like Spire Motorsports and everybody involved on the 77 team does a really good job and always executes good weekends, building fast Chevrolet Silverados. I’m looking forward to being in that position and it’s always a lot of fun watching, seeing, and learning from how they run the truck races. Being in a Spire truck is a winning situation. I’m just excited to get out there. I’m not really big on setting expectations but obviously, I’m going to the racetrack with the mindset that I’m going to try to win the race and bring a trophy home to Spire Motorsports. That’s the plan. That’s how I’ll prepare for it but as a driver, you know you always want to go there with the most confidence so I’m looking forward to getting out there and exploring, feeling new things, working with new people and a new team. I’m super grateful for Spire Motorsports, Jeff Dickerson, Dan Towriss and everybody at Delaware Life for making this happen. I really appreciate Richard Childress Racing for allowing me to do this and continue to work on my craft. Without RCR, opportunities like this wouldn’t be possible either.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Chad Walter

  • Chad Walter is the Crew Chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Delaware Life Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see multiple all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2026 season.
  • Walter has called four CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at Nashville Superspeedway, highlighted by a fourth-place finish in 2024 with Rajah Caruth at the controls.
  • In nine NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series events atop the box at Nashville, the Cornell (N.Y.) University graduate has collected two top fives and four top 10s, including a Kennametal Pole Award.
  • Between NASCAR’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, the Albion, N.Y. native has racked up seven wins, 52 top fives and 142 top 10s.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

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