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JR Motorsports — NOAPS Sonoma Raceway Preview

JR Motorsports O’Reilly Auto Parts Team Preview
TRACK – Sonoma Raceway (1.99-mile road course)
NOAPS RACE – Pit Boss/FoodMaxx 250 (79 laps / 157 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, PRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 5:30 p.m. (ET)

Connor Zilisch

No. 1 – Roto-Rooter Chevrolet

Zilisch 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 7

Wins: 2

Top 5s: 2

Top 10s: 5

Laps Led: 112

Avg. Finish: 9.4

Points: N/A

Connor Zilisch will make his eighth NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start of the 2026 season Saturday afternoon at Sonoma Raceway

Zilisch won the NOAPS race in 2025 at Sonoma, his first victory at the 1.99-mile road course. The victory came in a thrilling duel with Trackhouse Racing teammate Shane van Gisbergen, and he officially scored the victory by .438 seconds. Zilisch won in his first start at Sonoma and led the most laps (46 of 79). The victory at Sonoma was also Roto-Rooter’s first as a team primary sponsor in NASCAR.

Zilisch has seven wins in 10 previous NOAPS road-course starts, including a victory earlier this season at Watkins Glen International. He has nine top-five finishes and seven pole positions. Zilisch has led 369 of a possible 724 laps in those 10 races (50.96 percent). His average starting position when turning right and left is 6.10.

Zilisch has won from the pole position five times on road courses in the NOAPS: Watkins Glen (2024, 2025), Circuit of the Americas (2025), Portland International Raceway (2025), and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval (2025).

Connor Zilisch

“I’m really pumped about getting back to Sonoma with JR Motorsports. Shane (Van Gisbergen) and I had a great race for the win last year, and fortunately, we came out on top. I remember how excited everyone from Roto-Rooter was when I first saw them in Victory Lane. That was so cool, and hopefully we can get back there this weekend. It’s always great to race with Rodney (Childers, crew chief) and everyone on the No. 1 team. Getting the extra track time on Friday and Saturday is really valuable to prepare for the Cup race.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

Allgaier 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 18

Wins: 5

Top 5s: 12

Top 10s: 14

Laps Led: 457

Avg. Finish: 8.9

Points: 1st

In three NOAPS starts at Sonoma, Justin Allgaier has finished no worse than seventh, with a best finish of sixth coming in the last two events in the Sonoma Valley.

Overall, his average finish at the California road course is 6.3, which is second only to Portland (6.0) among all tracks he has competed on in the NOAPS.

In 65 starts in his NOAPS career on road courses, Allgaier has earned a combined three wins, 18 top-fives and 39 top-10s.

Two of Allgaier’s three NOAPS wins on road courses came with JRM, as the veteran driver went to Victory Lane in 2018 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Road America.

Justin Allgaier

“Sonoma has been a solid track for us since it joined the schedule a few years ago. Andrew (Overstreet, crew chief) and all the guys on this BRANDT Professional Agriculture team are ready to bounce back from last week and I know we will have a car capable of doing that on Saturday. If we can keep all four fenders clean and the car on track, I see no reason why we won’t find ourselves in a great position when the checkered flag falls Saturday night.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 18

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 6

Top 10s: 10

Laps Led: 17

Avg. Finish: 10.5

Points: 8th

Sammy Smith heads to Sonoma this weekend with momentum after a top-five finish at Naval Base Coronado. This increases his season top-five finishes to six along with 10 top-10s.

Of Smith’s three NOAPS races at Sonoma, he qualified in the top-10 on all occasions and finished in the top-10 twice.

Smith competed in the ARCA Menards Series West at Sonoma in 2023 where he qualified third and brought home a second-place finish.

The 22-year-old Iowa native has 26 NOAPS road-course starts with seven top-five and 13 top-10 finishes.

Pilot will share the TV panel with Aman Truck Lines (ATL) in Sonoma. ATL began in 2002 and is now one of the preferred trucking companies in Northern California with their state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated staff.

Sammy Smith

“This No. 8 Pilot team has had good qualifying runs and finishes at Sonoma in the past so I’m looking forward to getting there and building on that with the momentum from a good run in San Diego last weekend. Crazy that this is already the last road-course of the season since we had so many last year. That’s even more motivation to get the No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet into Victory Lane.”

Shane van Gisbergen

No. 9 Superfile Chevrolet

Van Gisbergen 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 2

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 1

Top 10s: 2

Laps Led: 38

Avg. Finish: 4.5

Points: N/A

Shane van Gisbergen will make his third NOAPS series start at Sonoma on Saturday, piloting the No. 9 SuperFile Chevrolet. Van Gisbergen is on a quest for his second NOAPS win at the 1.99-mile road course, after having gone to Victory Lane in 2024.

Last year at Sonoma, van Gisbergen started on the front row for the 79-lap NOAPS race. He led 24 laps while battling teammate Connor Zilisch. The two teammates put on a competitive showing, but ultimately, van Gisbergen finished second.

In February, Van Gisbergen captured his fifth NOAPS win at COTA in Austin, Texas, and his second win for JRM. Van Gisbergen started second and led 31 of the 65 laps.

Van Gisbergen has made five starts with JRM. He has claimed two wins, two pole positions, three top-fives and has led 100 laps.

Shane van Gisbergen

“I really like Sonoma. I’ve had good success there. Last year in the O’Reilly race we came up a bit short, but it was one of the best races for everyone to watch. I really enjoyed being in it and racing Connor (Zilisch). It’s really cool to race in O’Reilly and Cup, and I learn a lot about the track throughout the weekend and what I need from the cars. Looking forward to having a good crack at it this weekend. I really appreciate everyone at JR Motorsports. I’ve had a lot of fun driving the 9 car this season. Hoping to get a good result for SuperFile and the No. 9 team this weekend.”

Rajah Caruth

No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

Caruth 2026 NOAPS Stats

Starts: 18

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 1

Top 10s: 6

Laps Led: 52

Avg. Finish: 17.3

Points: 14th

Rajah Caruth returns to the No. 88 JRM HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet this weekend at Sonoma, making his first career NASCAR O’Reilly Series start at the road course.

In four career NASCAR O’Reilly Series road course starts, Caruth’s most recent outing resulted in a 12th-place finish at Watkins Glen earlier this season.

Caruth enters Sonoma just nine points below the NASCAR O’Reilly Series Chase cut line with six races remaining in the regular season.

Crew chief Mardy Lindley returns to Sonoma after guiding Connor Zilisch to victory at the 1.99-mile road course last season. Lindley and Caruth will look to put the No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet back in Victory Lane this weekend.

Rajah Caruth

“Sonoma is a place I’ve been looking forward to racing. I’ve never been there before, so it’ll be a new challenge for me, but that’s part of what makes it exciting. It’s a technical track with a lot of elevation change, and you have to be precise every lap. Road courses are all about staying disciplined, managing the braking zones, and putting yourself in position when it matters most. Our No. 88 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevy should have good speed, so I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do this weekend.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Sonoma Raceway: Since the NOAPS debuted at Sonoma Raceway in 2023, JR Motorsports has made 13 starts at the 1.99-mile road course. In that span, the organization has earned one win, three top-fives, nine top-10s and an average finish of 13.6.

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, June 27 from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. PT.

How to Coordinate Transportation for a Destination Wedding in Miami

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

Planning a destination wedding comes with unique challenges. While couples often focus on venues, catering, photography, and guest accommodations, transportation is one of the most important details that can determine how smoothly the entire celebration unfolds.

In a city like Miami, where weddings frequently attract guests from across the country and around the world, transportation planning becomes even more important. Airport arrivals, hotel transfers, ceremony schedules, and reception logistics all require careful coordination to ensure guests enjoy a seamless experience from start to finish.

Whether you’re planning an intimate beachfront ceremony or a large luxury celebration, understanding how to coordinate transportation effectively can help reduce stress and create a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Why Transportation Matters More Than Many Couples Realize

Transportation is often viewed as a minor logistical detail until problems arise.

Guests who cannot find their transportation, family members who arrive late to the ceremony, or wedding parties stuck in traffic can quickly create unnecessary stress on an already busy day.

The best destination weddings feel effortless because the logistics have been carefully planned in advance. Guests know where they need to be, how they will get there, and when transportation will arrive.

When transportation is organized properly, couples can focus on enjoying their wedding rather than managing last-minute issues.

Consider Your Guest List Early

One of the first steps in transportation planning is understanding where guests will be traveling from.

Destination weddings often involve multiple arrival schedules, different hotels, and guests with varying transportation needs. Some guests may fly into Miami International Airport, while others arrive through Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Creating a guest transportation plan early allows couples to identify potential challenges before they become problems.

Airport Transportation Can Improve the Guest Experience

For many destination wedding guests, the experience begins the moment they land.

Travel can be exhausting, especially for guests arriving after long flights. Providing clear transportation recommendations helps eliminate confusion and creates a more welcoming experience.

Some couples choose to provide transportation information within their wedding website or welcome packets. Others coordinate an airport limo service Miami for close family members or wedding party participants who may have more demanding schedules.

Transportation Between Venues Requires Careful Planning

Many Miami weddings involve multiple locations.

Guests may travel between hotels, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions, and post-wedding events throughout the weekend.

While each transfer may seem simple on its own, transportation delays can quickly affect the entire schedule if not managed properly.

Choosing the Right Transportation Option

Different weddings require different transportation solutions.

For smaller weddings, luxury sedans or SUVs may provide sufficient transportation for the couple and immediate family members. Larger celebrations often require a combination of shuttle buses, executive vehicles, and specialty transportation.

Many couples also choose a professional wedding limo service for key moments of the celebration. In addition to providing comfortable transportation, limousines can create a memorable experience for the couple while simplifying logistics between venues.

Miami Traffic Should Never Be Ignored

Miami is one of the most popular destination wedding markets in the United States, but it is also known for heavy traffic in certain areas. It is in these cases where booking a wedding limo service Miami is absolutely crucial to meet all of your itinerary.

Transportation schedules should account for these realities.

Don’t Forget About Special Guests

Transportation planning should also consider guests who may need additional assistance.

Parents, grandparents, elderly relatives, and guests with mobility concerns often benefit from dedicated transportation arrangements.

Build Transportation Into Your Wedding Timeline

One of the most effective ways to reduce wedding-day stress is to incorporate transportation directly into the master event timeline.

This timeline should include airport arrivals, hotel check-ins, ceremony transportation, reception transfers, vendor arrival schedules, and end-of-night transportation.

The Goal Is Less Stress

Ultimately, successful wedding planning is not about creating more work. It is about reducing uncertainty.

Every major decision completed ahead of schedule creates additional breathing room as the wedding date approaches.

Final Thoughts

A successful destination wedding depends on more than beautiful venues and great photography. Behind every memorable celebration is a carefully coordinated plan that keeps guests comfortable and events running smoothly.

Transportation plays a significant role in that process. By considering guest arrivals, venue logistics, traffic patterns, and transportation needs early in the planning process, couples can create a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Top Benefits of Upgrading the Cold Side Intercooler Pipe on a 6.7 Powerstroke Diesel

People who own the Powerstroke really, like the Powerstroke because it can tow things well. The Powerstroke also lasts a long time and the Powerstroke is very reliable. Owners of the Powerstroke really like that the 6.7L Powerstroke engine is used in Ford F-250 trucks, Ford F-350 trucks and, in Ford F-450 and Ford F-550 Super Duty trucks. These trucks are meant for carrying stuff over distances and doing tough jobs. 

Even a robust diesel platform, though, has parts that the owner can enhance over time. The cold-side pipe (cold-side intercooler) is one of the most talked about upgrades in the 6.7 Powerstroke community. Though it appears to be a minor part, it is an integral part of the engine that helps with proper air flow, increases pressure and overall engine efficiency.

Understanding the Role of the Intercooler System 

A turbocharger forces air into the engine prior to its arrival. In the process the temperature of the air will rise. Cooler, denser air is then sucked into the combustion chamber by the intercooler which decreases this heat.

A well-functioning intercooler system aids:

  • Improve combustion efficiency
  • Provide uniform turbocharger output.
  • Provide reliable engine performance under load.

This is achieved by the intercooler pipe, which brings the cooled air to the engine effectively. If the system develops leakages or restrictions, the engine’s airflow efficiency will suffer and the turbocharger will have to work harder to keep boost going.

What is the reason that Factory Piping can be a weak point?

Most truck owners are not concerned with the intercooler pipes until they start to have issues. While the factory components are designed for daily use, years of vibration, towing stress, heat cycles and engine movement can all take their toll and cause wear.

Common issues include:

  • Cracks in factory plastic sections
  • Damaged couplers
  • Tighten up any connection points that are leaking.

The symptoms of these issues can build up over time. The truck could still run, but owners may experience slower pick-up, less power, or uneven power distribution.

These little problems may be more pronounced for people who regularly tow large loads, as the engine is running at a higher pressure for longer than normal.

Here are some of the advantages of a better air flow

One reason that owners change intercooler piping is for better airflow. Smoother bends, stronger materials and better designs are applied to many after-market systems to minimize charge-air restrictions.

Applying a better airflow path can help to achieve:

  • Higher peak power output in the boost mode.
  • Improved throttle response
  • Improved performance at start-up.

Upgrading the intercooler pipe on a stock truck doesn’t really make it more powerful. Many Powerstroke owners like that it makes the truck run smoothly and reliably. This is especially important when towing or driving in conditions. 

Stronger Materials Improve Reliability 

To many diesel owners, it isn’t always about the maximum horsepower, it’s about durability. The components of a work truck should be able to withstand high temperatures, pressure changes, and constant stress.

Aluminum construction is common in many systems that have been upgraded, as it is more resistant to heat and pressure than some factory materials.

Frequently, owners investigating reliability upgrades will look into a cold side intercooler pipe 6.7 powerstrok solution due to the fact that it will help reinforce a crucial part of the charge-air system.

Many people will rather upgrade before problems arise than wait for them to happen during a towing trip or on a workday.

The benefits of towing is that it makes the air flow more important

Towing is the hallmark of the Ford Super Duty platform, but towing loads puts additional strain on the engine and turbocharger. The long uphill pulls, high temperatures and extended boost demands make it essential for having a reliable airflow system.

During heavy towing:

  • Intake temperatures can increase
  • Turbocharger workload rises
  • Control of airflow is more important.

An improved intercooler piping system allows to deliver a consistent air flow with the engine working under his maximum demand. Hence, many owners who are more into tow service consider it to be a reliability upgrade and not a performance modification.

Preventive Upgrades Are Growing in Popularity 

Today’s diesel owners are more proactive on maintenance. Many drivers take the matter of upgrading substandard components into their own hands, rather than waiting for them to break.

This has raised awareness of the need for better cooling, improved drivetrains, and better flow.

These reliability-oriented changes often include considering a good intercooler pipe setup to keep airflow at its best and avoid any boost-related issues.

Minor performance improvements may be less important than avoiding downtime for individuals who rely on their trucks for business.

Supporting Future Performance Modifications 

As time goes on 6.7 Powerstroke owners decide to make some changes to their Powerstroke trucks. They might upgrade their carburetors, intakes, and exhaust systems. Improve their turbochargers. The 6.7 Powerstroke engine seems to be an one, for making these kinds of enhancements to their Powerstroke. These adjustments raise the air flow need and demand on the factory components.

A higher quality intercooler piping system can offer further modified truck support for more durability and boost-holding capacity.

Benefits may include:

  • Better boost retention
  • Increased strength under pressure
  • Better support for future upgrades 

Intercooler piping can be a significant supporting modification, as it is a major factor in diesel performance.

What is driving this upgrade to get attention in the diesel community?

The intercooler pipe upgrade is still a topic of conversation among the diesel community as it addresses practical issues. Truck owners often report cracked pipes, leaking couplers and erratic boost performance.

This is a part upgrade, as opposed to cosmetic, to enhance a functional component of the engine system. It’s growing in popularity because of its superior durability, airflow and reliability.

Final Words

The 6.7L Powerstroke continues to be one of Ford’s most powerful diesel engines for heavy duty applications. But the crucial thing to consider for long-term performance is the engine’s accompanying parts, which aid in its efficient operation.

The cold-side intercooler pipe can be upgraded to make it more durable, air-flow and have more confidence when towing, and for future modifications.

If it’s a daily, everyday driver, such as many Super Duty are, it can make sense to make the intercooler piping system more efficient for many years of consistent performance. 

Kingbull Announces 2026 Anniversary Discounts on Ranger & Full E-Bike Lineup

Kingbull has announced its Anniversary Sale that will run from June 15 to June 30, 2026. As part of this event, several models, including the popular Ranger, will be offered at significantly reduced prices.

For Ranger, the discount is $600, which brings its new price to $799. Customers can also receive an additional $150 discount when purchasing two bikes during the promotional period.

In addition to Ranger, several other Kingbull models will also be available with major savings, with discounts of up to $1,000 off on select e-bikes.

With that said, here’s an overview of the Ranger to help you decide if it’s worth considering.

Kingbull Ranger

Kingbull Ranger | Vintage Off-Road Electric Bike

Specs

Motor: 750W
Battery: 864Wh
Tires: 20″ x 4.0″
Weight: 88 lbs

Pros

Full suspension for a comfy ride
High-capacity removable battery
Reliable braking system
Classic vintage design

Cons

Seat height is not adjustable
Basic 7-speed drivetrain

Deal

$600 off, Now $799

Overview

The Kingbull Ranger is a vintage-style fat tire electric bike designed for riders who want daily practicality with a more adventurous edge. Its moped-inspired frame, vintage leather saddle, and CST 20″ x 4.0″ fat tires give it a distinctive look while adding stability on city streets, rough pavement, gravel paths, and light trails.

Power comes from a 750W motor, which provides enough support for commuting, weekend rides, and moderate climbs. Paired with a 48V/18Ah Lithium battery delivering up to 80 miles per full charge, the Ranger is built for longer rides and easier charging, especially for riders who prefer to charge the battery indoors.

Comfort is one of its key strengths. The full-suspension system is tuned for balance and control, helping smooth out potholes, gravel, and uneven roads. Together with the reinforced high-carbon steel alloy frame and 350 lbs max payload capacity, the bike feels stable under heavier loads and is practical for daily cargo or longer rides.

For braking, the Ranger uses hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors, offering responsive and consistent stopping power across different road conditions. Its Shimano 7-speed transmission gives riders enough gearing flexibility for flat roads and moderate inclines, while the centrally mounted 3.5-inch display shows speed, battery status, and assist level at a glance.

There are a few trade-offs. At 88 lbs, the Ranger is not lightweight, so carrying or storing it in tight spaces may be difficult. The seat height is not adjustable, and the Shimano 7-speed drivetrain, while practical, is still fairly basic compared with higher-end systems.

Overall, the Kingbull Ranger combines eye-catching retro styling with reliable all-around performance. Marked down by $600 to $799 for the 2026 Anniversary Sale, the bike comes bundled with a lock, pump and rear footrest pegs, delivering outstanding value for all enthusiast riders.

Other Kingbull Deals

During the Anniversary Sale, Kingbull is offering major discounts on all its models, with savings of up to $1,000 off on the biggest deal.

Ranger: $600 off, Now $799
Hunter 2.0: $850 off, Now $849
Hunter 2.0S: $800 off, Now $899
Literider 2.0: $720 off, Now $979
Rover 2.0: $700 off, Now $1,199
Voyager 2.0: $810 off, Now $1,089
Discover 2.0: $800 off, Now $1,099
Jumper GO: $1,000 off, Now $1,499
Trekker: $750 off, Now $1,349
Verve: $750 off, Now $1,349
Double Ranger: $1,350 off, Now $1,448
Double Hunter 2.0S: $1,750 off, Now $1,648
Double Discover 2.0: $1,750 off, Now $2,048

The brand’s Anniversary Sale runs from June 15 to June 30, 2026. During the promotional period, customers can save up to $1,000 on the biggest deal and get an extra $150 off when purchasing two bikes.

Essential Shark Tooth Hunting Tools for a Productive Beach Search

The right shark tooth hunting tools can help beachcombers search more efficiently, sort wet material faster, and avoid overlooking small fossils hidden among shells and gravel.

Finding shark teeth is partly about location, but equipment also plays an important role. Many teeth are small, dark and easy to confuse with broken shells or stones. They may be buried in wet sand, mixed into shell beds or collected in shallow areas after waves and tides move the shoreline.

A useful hunting kit does not need to be complicated. It should simply help the hunter collect material, wash away sand and inspect what remains.

The sifter is the center of the setup

A shark tooth sand sifter is one of the most practical tools for shoreline hunting. Sand and fine debris pass through the mesh, while teeth, shells, pebbles and fossil fragments stay inside for closer inspection.

A floating sifter for shark teeth is particularly convenient in shallow water. Since the basket stays near the surface, the user does not have to hold the full weight of wet sand while sorting it. The tray can float beside the hunter and serve as a temporary collection area during the search.

Some hunters call this tool a shark tooth net or shark tooth basket, although its function is closer to a screening tray. The mesh needs to be open enough to release sand but fine enough to retain smaller finds.

What else should be in the kit?

Besides a sifter, several simple items can make a beach search more comfortable:

  • a small scoop or hand shovel;
  • a container for finished finds;
  • gloves for handling sharp shells;
  • waterproof footwear;
  • a brush for cleaning fossils;
  • a small bag for carrying tools;
  • drinking water and sun protection.

A scoop helps collect material from shell lines, shallow holes and compacted areas. It also reduces the need to dig directly with bare hands.

shark tooth hunting

A secure container is equally important. Shark teeth can be surprisingly easy to lose after they are found, especially when the hunter continues walking through water or loose sand.

Where these tools work best

Shark tooth hunting tools are most effective in places where natural movement concentrates heavier material. Shell beds, gravel patches, tidal channels and areas below eroded banks are often worth checking.

After storms or strong tides, new material may become exposed. Instead of searching random sand, experienced hunters often focus on areas where shells and darker fragments collect together.

The sifter should not be overloaded. Smaller batches rinse faster and are easier to examine. Once the sand passes through, the remaining material can be spread across the basket and checked from different angles.

Choosing a durable sifter

A shark tooth sifter with a handle may be useful for hunters who want extra control while standing in the surf. However, handle design is only one factor.

The frame should remain stable, the mesh should resist repeated contact with salt water, and the basket should be large enough for sorting without becoming difficult to carry. Stainless steel mesh is a practical choice because it offers a firm surface for screening sand and wet debris.

Anyone searching for a shark tooth sifter for sale should also consider portability. The best tool is one that can be carried to the beach easily, rinsed after use, and stored without special maintenance.

A better search starts with a simple system

Successful fossil hunting is usually a combination of patience, observation and consistent sorting. Good equipment does not guarantee a rare discovery, but it helps the hunter cover more material and examine each load more carefully.

With a floating sifter, small scoop and safe storage container, beachcombers can build a practical kit for finding shark teeth, shells, fossils, sea glass and other shoreline treasures.

CKG creates beach-hunting and treasure-recovery tools for outdoor searches in sand, shallow water and coastal environments.

5 Mistakes That Can Reduce Your Car Accident Settlement

After a car accident, the steps that you take next determine the success of your insurance claim. Making any mistake can significantly reduce your settlement amount. Mistakes that can impact your car accident settlement include delaying medical treatment, admitting fault, giving statements without legal guidance, failing to collect necessary evidence, and accepting the first settlement offer. 

El Cajon, located in San Diego County in Southern California, is a vibrant city that is known for its rich cultural diversity. This city is part of the larger San Diego metropolitan area and is connected to major roadways that see regular commuter and local traffic. With a good number of residents and tourists, the roads of El Cajon can be buzzing with traffic most days, making it more prone to accidents.

If you have been involved in a car accident, avoiding mistakes that could affect your settlement amount is important. Getting support from a trusted car accident law firm in El Cajon, CA, can help you understand your rights and make informed decisions throughout the claims process.

To help you protect your claim, below are five common mistakes that can reduce the settlement amount of your car accident case.

1. Delaying or Ignoring Medical Treatment 

Even though delaying or ignoring medical treatment may not seem like a big deal, it is, in fact, one of the biggest mistakes that can affect your accident settlement claim. So if you are ever in a car accident, remember to get yourself examined by a doctor immediately, even if the injuries seem minor. 

Delaying medical care allows insurance companies to reduce your claim by arguing that your injuries are not serious, as you didn’t take medical care, or that your injuries were not caused by that accident. 

Medical records also serve as proof of the incident, thereby helping to strengthen your claim and secure the right compensation. 

2. Admitting Fault or Apologizing at the Scene 

Sometimes, people have the tendency to apologize after an accident, even if they are not at fault. But admitting fault or apologizing at the scene of the accident can turn the case against you. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used by insurance companies to misinterpret your statement as admitting fault. 

So ensure that you do not go for any unnecessary exchanges and just collect the necessary details, such as contact information of the other party. 

3. Giving Statements to Insurance Companies 

Most often, after an accident, insurance companies may call you to get a statement on what happened. But giving statements without any legal advice may cost your settlement amount. Getting legal help immediately is best so that your attorney can help you handle the insurance companies with careful consideration.

4. Failing to Collect Evidence 

For any personal injury claim, evidence plays the most important role. By having strong evidence, you can easily strengthen your car accident claim. This is why the first steps after a car accident should be to collect as much evidence as possible from the scene. Evidence can include photos of the damage, video of the accident scene, witness information, etc. 

Missing or failing to collect evidence makes it more difficult to establish liability in the accident, thereby affecting your claim. 

5. Accepting the First Settlement Offer 

When recovering from an accident, victims usually don’t have the energy to run after insurance companies. So when an offer is received early, people find it tempting to close the case by accepting the offer. But most early offers usually offer a very low amount that is less than what the victim is eligible for. 

By accepting an early offer, victims may also not consider factors like future medical expenses, making it difficult in the future. Before accepting an offer, ensure that you consider all factors into account. 

Key Takeaways 

  • The steps you take after a car accident determine the value of your claim. 
  • Making mistakes like delaying treatment, admitting fault, giving statements, not collecting evidence, and accepting the first offer can significantly impact the settlement amount.
  • Medical records are proof of your injuries, and delaying treatment makes it hard to connect the injuries with the accident. 
  • Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene can turn the case against you. 
  • Give statements to insurance companies only after proper legal advice. 
  • Failing to collect evidence makes it difficult to establish liability. 
  • Accepting the first offer may result in you receiving lower compensation than what you deserve.

2026 NASCAR In-Season Challenge Overview

Photo by David Myers for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 2026 NASCAR In-Season Challenge is officially in full swing.

The In-Season Challenge commences this upcoming weekend at Sonoma Raceway, the first of a five-race summer stretch from mid-June to the end of July. With five distinct racing venues forthcoming, big names squaring off against one another and a big prize value up for grabs, this year’s tournament presents numerous reasons for epic bragging rights to be made on (and even off) the track.

In-Season Challenge 101

NASCAR’s In-Season Challenge is a tournament that occurs within the summer stretch of a Cup Series season, particularly within the early stages of the schedule’s second half. The tournament features 32 competitors participating in a single-elimination competition over a five-race stretch as part of TNT Sports’ coverage of Cup competition. Compared to the competition’s inaugural occurrence in 2025, where seeding events determined who would qualify for the competition, this year’s field of 32 competitors was determined based on the points position standings following the Cup event at Pocono Raceway on June 14.

At the conclusion of the Pocono event, the following names that include Tyler Reddick, Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney, Chase Elliott, Ty Gibbs, Kyle Larson, Chris Buescher, Daniel Suarez, Carson Hocevar, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Chase Briscoe, Bubba Wallace, Shane van Gisbergen, Erik Jones, Austin Cindric, Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano, Ryan Preece, Michael McDowell, AJ Allmendinger, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Ross Chastain, Zane Smith, Todd Gilliland, John Hunter Nemechek, Riley Herbst, Austin Dillon, Noah Gragson, Josh Berry, Ty Dillon and Alex Bowman qualified for the 2026 In-Season Challenge. The competitors mentioned were listed based on their respective seed rankings. Reddick, seeded first, and Bowman, the last competitor to acquire a seeded spot for the tournament, were seeded 32nd.

Notables that did not qualify for this year’s In-Season Tournament are Cole Custer, rookie Connor Zillisch and Cody Ware as they were ranked 33rd or below in the 2026 driver’s standings after the Pocono event.

For the first-round In-Season Challenge matchup at Sonoma, the 32 competitors will square off as follows:

  • 1. Tyler Reddick vs. #32. Alex Bowman
  • 16. Austin Cindric vs. #17. Brad Keselowski
  • 8. Daniel Suarez vs. #25. Todd Gilliland
  • 9. Carson Hocevar vs. #24. Zane Smith
  • 12. Chase Briscoe vs. #21. AJ Allmendinger
  • 5. Ty Gibbs vs. #28. Austin Dillon
  • 13. Bubba Wallace vs. #20. Michael McDowell
  • 4. Chase Elliott vs. #29. Noah Gragson
  • 2. Denny Hamlin vs. #31. Ty Dillon
  • 15. Erik Jones vs. #18. Joey Logano
  • 7. Chris Buescher vs. #26. John Hunter Nemechek
  • 10. Christopher Bell vs. #23. Ross Chastain
  • 11. William Byron vs. #22. Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
  • 6. Kyle Larson vs. #27. Riley Herbst
  • 14. Shane van Gisbergen vs. #19. Ryan Preece
  • 3. Ryan Blaney vs. #30. Josh Berry

Each competitor advances to the following round by finishing ahead of their respective competitor with whom they are squared off against one another. Following the first In-Season Challenge event at Sonoma, the field will be reduced by half, from 32 to 16, before the second event at Chicagoland Speedway (July 5). The field will be reduced a second time by half, 16 to 8, after Chicagoland and before the third event at EchoPark Speedway (July 12). Afterwards, only four contenders will square off against one another in the penultimate event at North Wilkesboro Speedway (July 19).

Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 2026 In-Season Challenge concludes with the prestigious Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (July 26) for a second consecutive year. For this event, the two finalists who transfer will square off against one another on the track for 160 laps. The highest-finishing finalist will be awarded the tournament’s $1 million prize.

Fans’ Involvement

The 2026 NASCAR In-Season Challenge is a competition that is not solely designated towards the competitors duking it out on the track. Fans can register for the challenge through NASCAR.com, with registrations commencing on June 8 and bracket selections occurring on June 15. Fans who fill in their brackets would then have to submit to NASCAR by June 28 to be eligible to compete against other race fans for an opportunity to achieve the competition’s prize.

Participants who correctly pick competitors who transfer through each round will be awarded points, with the first round awarding 10 points, the second round awarding 20, the third round awarding 40, the fourth round awarding 80, and the fifth and final round awarding 160. The fan who achieves the top prize title will be awarded $10,000, the runner-up will be awarded $5,00,0 and the third-place finisher will be awarded $2,500. A grand prize of $1 million will only be awarded to any fan who correctly predicts the overall outcome of the entire bracket (drivers’ transfer of each round), while split winners will have the grand prize split equally.

2025 NASCAR In-Season Challenge Recap

NASCAR’s inaugural In-Season Challenge tournament featured a Ty vs. Ty showdown as Ty Gibbs and Ty Dillon, both of whom transferred through the tournament’s four events, squared off for the $1 million prize during the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In the end, Gibbs claimed fame as being named the inaugural champion of the In-Season Challenge despite finishing in 21st place, but finishing seven spots ahead of Dillon.

Photo by Adam Lovelace for SpeedwayMedia.com.

This season, both Ty Gibbs and Ty Dillon return as two of 32 competitors squaring off against one another for the In-Season Challenge’s prize, with Gibbs aiming for another million-dollar bonus and Dillon striving for redemption following his Cinderella run a year ago. Gibbs enters the tournament as the fifth seed, as he will square off against Ty’s brother, Austin, in the first round. Austin Dillon did not transfer past the first round a year ago. Meanwhile, Ty Dillon, who enters in the 31st seed, will square off against Denny Hamlin, the latter of whom has been victorious four times this season. Ironically, Hamlin was outfinished by Dillon during the tournament’s first round a year ago.

Who will claim the $1 million prize this season? Which competitor will have the epic bragging rights of being crowned a NASCAR In-Season Challenge champion?

Tune in as the 2026 NASCAR In-Season Challenge commences this Sunday, June 28, at Sonoma Raceway for the Toyota/Save Mart 350. The event’s broadcast is slated to commence at 3:30 p.m. ET on TNT Sports, PRN Radio, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.

Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 team penalized for detached wheel at Naval Base Coronado

Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

NASCAR penalized the No. 23 23XI Racing Toyota Camry XSE team piloted by Bubba Wallace for a detached wheel. The incident occurred during this past weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series’ Anduril 250 at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, California.

On Lap 18 of 75, Wallace’s right-front wheel detached from the No. 23 Xfinity Toyota Camry XSE entry in Turn 10. The issue occurred after the reigning Brickyard 400 champion from Mobile, Alabama, made a green-flag pit stop prior to the first stage’s conclusion. Despite being held two laps in his pit stall as a penalty during Sunday’s event, Wallace recovered to notch a runner-up result as he finished more than 10 seconds behind his teammate and race winner, Corey Heim.

Due to the detached wheel, Wallace’s rear tire changer, Adam Hartman, and jackman, Nathan Ricketts, will not be allowed to participate in the next two Cup Series events at Sonoma Raceway (June 28) and Chicagoland Speedway (July 5). No points penalties were issued for Wallace’s No. 23 team, as Wallace is ranked in 11th place in the 2026 standings. He is also 62 points above the top-16 cutline to be in contention for the Chase with nine regular-season events remaining on this year’s schedule.

There were no additional penalties levied against the remaining teams that competed in Sunday’s Cup event at Naval Base Coronado. In addition, no O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and Craftsman Truck Series teams were penalized following their scheduled events at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado on June 19-20. Layne Riggs and Austin Hill won the Truck and O’Reilly events, respectively.

The 2026 NASCAR season resumes with a doubleheader feature at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, California. The O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competes in the fourth annual Pit Boss/FoodMaxx 250 at Sonoma this Saturday, June 27, at 5:30 p.m. ET on the CW Network, PRN Radio and SiriusXM. The Cup Series competes in the 37th running of the Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Sonoma this Sunday, June 28, at 3:30 p.m. ET on TNT Sports, PRN Radio, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.

Enzo Fittipaldi Tops Open Test in First Trip to Milwaukee Mile

MILWAUKEE (Tuesday, June 23, 2026) – Enzo Fittipaldi felt right at home at Milwaukee Mile after his first visit to the fabled track Tuesday, leading a busy INDY NXT by Firestone Open Test.

Fittipaldi’s top lap was 152.012 mph in the No. 67 HMD Motorsports car as he and 23 other drivers prepared for the INDYCAR development series race Sunday, Aug. 30 on the 1.015-mile oval. Rookie Fittipaldi, grandson of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Emerson Fittipaldi, is third in series points and has two victories this season.

“It was a really cool track to drive,” Fittipaldi said. “It’s very different to the other ovals that I’ve tested on, Nashville and Gateway. It just feels like two high-speed corners, and there’s not much banking, so there’s a lot you can do in your driving to extract the most from the car and the setup. So, it’s a really fun track.”

There were two surprises right behind Fittipaldi on the time sheet. Veteran Niels Koolen, 15th in points, was second at 151.779 in the No. 10 Chip Ganassi Racing entry. His CGR teammate and fellow veteran James Roe, 21st in points, ended up third at 151.559 in the team’s No. 8 car.

Alessandro de Tullio, who leads the series with seven poles in 10 races this season, clocked in fourth at 151.494 in the No. 14 AJ Foyt Enterprises car. Rookie Jack Beeton rounded out the top five at 151.433 in the No. 45 HMD Motorsports machine.

There were two incidents with contact. In the morning, series veteran and three-time oval-race winner Myles Rowe hit the SAFER Barrier in Turn 2 with his No. 99 Abel Motorsports with Force Indy car. In the afternoon, rookie Carson Etter brushed the SAFER Barrier and continued in his No. 11 Chip Ganassi Racing entry. Neither driver was hurt.

Last year’s race was 90 laps on the historic oval, and every driver except Rowe easily exceeded that distance in the test. Fifteen drivers turned more than 200 laps, led by Lochie Hughes at 266 in the No. 26 Andretti Global car.

The next INDY NXT by Firestone event is a doubleheader July 4-5 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Spire Motorsports NASCAR Cup Series Sonoma Race Advance

  • In 13 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, Spire Motorsports has logged one top-five and seven top-20 finishes. Michael McDowell owns the team’s best result, a forth-place effort, earned in last year’s annual visit to the popular northern California road course. Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the Cup Series with Daniel Suarez, McDowell and Carson Hocevar, respectively.
  • The NASCAR Cup Series race from Sonoma Raceway will be televised live on TNT Sunday, June 28 beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time and will mark the halfway point of the season. The 18th of 36 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series calendar will also be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Daniel Suárez – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Daniel Suárez will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Freeway Insurance Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Sonoma Raceway.
  • Freeway Insurance was established in 1987 and is one of the largest and fastest-growing personal lines insurance brokers in the United States, offering coverage through a “click, call, or come in” approach that connects customers nationwide. The company continually researches, grows, and diversifies its product offerings to stay responsive to the evolving insurance market. Freeway provides a wide range of options – from basic to premium coverage – in auto, truck, commercial vehicle, homeowners, renters, small business, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, fire, and flood insurance. In 2008, Freeway Insurance became part of Confie, the nation’s leading personal lines insurance distribution company. Customers can access Freeway Insurance through neighborhood offices, online at www.freeway.com, or by calling (800) 300-0227.
  • As the 2026 season approaches the halfway mark this weekend, the 34-year-old driver sits eighth in the NASCAR Cup Series championship standings with 478 points. Over the last five weeks, Suárez has outscored nearly the entire field, posting the third-most points in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Suárez captured his first career NASCAR Cup Series victory at Sonoma Raceway in 2022, in his 195th start, to become the first Mexican-born driver to win a race in NASCAR’s premier division. He led 47 of 110 laps, to capture the checkered flag by a nearly four-second margin of victory.
  • Suárez earned his best road-course start of the season last weekend at Naval Base Coronado, where he qualified sixth. He collected four stage points in Stage 2 and went on to finish 13th in the Anduril 250 to record his 10th top-15 finish of the year.
  • Suárez owns 43 starts combined on roadcourses and street circuits where he’s recorded one win, six top fives, four top 10s and led a total of 85 laps. Over the past decade, across both configurations, he has posted a 12.25 average start and a 21.05 average finish.
  • Sonoma marks the fourth and final non-oval events on the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule. The Monterrey, Mexico native opened the road course stretch with a 25th-place finish at Circuit of the Americas and went on to finish 13th at both Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International and Naval Base Coronado.
  • In NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition, Suárez won at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, on June 14, 2025, coming from the tail of the field in a back-up car to earn a dramatic home-country victory.
  • The 2026 Coca-Cola 600 race winner is a veteran of 340 Cup Series starts and has notched three wins, 26 top fives and 80 top-10s in NASCAR’s premier division. Suárez has led 935 laps and earned three poles since making his series debut in 2017.

Daniel Suárez Quotes
When you think back to the moment you won at Sonoma, what does it mean to you?
“Sonoma is always special to me. It’s one of those road courses where you really have to earn everything you get. Nothing comes easy. When I first came into NASCAR, tracks like this were a big challenge, but over time I’ve learned how to be more patient and how to manage the race better. Every time I come back, I think about the journey – coming from Mexico, learning these tracks, and now competing and trying to win at this level. That means a lot to me.

How did your 2022 win at Sonoma Raceway change the way you think about strategy and patience on road courses?
“Sonoma is one of those places where you have to stay disciplined all day long. You’ve got to take care of your tires, be smooth, and make the most of every lap. Strategy is always important, so communication with the team makes a big difference. We’ve had some ups and downs at Sonoma over the years, but every time we come back, we learn something. Hopefully, we can put together a solid race, execute when it matters most, and be there at the end.”

Ryan Sparks – Crew Chief, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Ryan Sparks is the Crew Chief of Spire Motorsports No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Last week in San Diego at Naval Base Coronado, Sparks guided Suárez to his 10th top-15 finish of the season. Dating back to 2020, the veteran crew chief has called 33 road and street races. His best finish came in 2024 when he led former driver Corey LaJoie to an eighth-place showing at Wakins Glen (N.Y.) International.
  • Sparks has called 219 NASCAR Cup Series races since making his crew chief debut in 2020 and has recorded one victory, six top-five and 15 top-10 finishes. Sparks called his first career NASCAR Cup Series win at this year’s the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.
  • Sparks joined Spire Motorsports in 2021, where he served as both Crew Chief and Competition Director, leading the organization’s competitive and technical efforts. In 2026, Sparks serves in a singular role as crew chief for Daniel Suárez. He brings more than a decade of experience across all three national series, highlighted by 13 seasons at Richard Childress Racing and contributions to title-winning campaigns in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (2011) and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (2013).

Michael McDowell – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Delaware Life Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Sonoma Raceway.
  • Delaware Life is a life insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001 Insurance, Delaware Life was born out of the advisor industry and 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 its clients with annuities that give customers peace of mind and a successful future, allowing them to plan with confidence for whatever’s next.
  • McDowell owns 13 starts at the 10-turn, 1.99-mile road course, where he’s earned three top-five and four top-10 finishes in NASCAR Cup Series competition.
  • Over his last four starts at the famed northern California roadcourse, the 19-season Cup Series veteran has posted an average starting position of 9.75 and a stellar fourth-place average finish. Across that same stretch, McDowell has three top fives, including a 2024 runner-up effort, and hasn’t finished worse than seventh. His average finish marks the best average in the Series over the last four seasons.
  • Before making the move to the Charlotte, N.C., area, McDowell spent a portion of his young career in Sonoma and Northern California building his resume working in local race shops outside of Sonoma Raceway.
  • Cole Markle, tire specialist and engineer for Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 team, is a former Golden State resident. Markle spent his childhood four hours south of Sonoma Raceway in Hanford, Calif., and returns to Sonoma looking for a win in his home state.
  • The 2021 Daytona 500 Champion will have a familiar voice on the spotter stand this week where McDowell’s cousin, Jason Noll, will assist primary spotter Michael Fisher during the Cup Series’ second leg of the west coast swing.
  • Last weekend at Naval Base Coronado, McDowell qualified ninth and finished 10th to notch his fourth top-10 of the season.
  • McDowell has 56 combined Cup Series road and street course starts over his career where he’s logged one win, nine top-five and 19 top-10 finishes. He owns a 16.7 average start paired with a 19.1 average finish, a career-best at any track configuration for drivers with a minimum of 50 attempts.
  • In his four most recent starts on street courses, the 41-year-old has tallied an average starting position of fifth paired with an average finish of 13.5, on the strength of one top-five and three top-10 finishes.
  • McDowell collected the 2016 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series win at Road America, where he led 24 of 48 laps, before collecting the checkers in his lone start behind the wheel of Richard Childress Racing’s No. 2 Chevrolet.
  • Sonoma marks the start of NASCAR’s second annual In-Season Challenge, where McDowell will be matched against Bubba Wallace.
  • After 17 points-paying races on the 2026 calendar, McDowell currently sits 21st in the Cup Series standings. With nine races remaining before “The Chase”, McDowell sits just 34 points below the cutline on the strength of two top-five and four top-10 finishes.
  • Across his last six points-paying races, the 19-year Cup Series regular holds an average finish of 14th, while pacing the field two times for eight laps (Watkins Glen/Charlotte)

Michael McDowell Quote
What are the keys to getting around Sonoma?
“Sonoma is a lot of fun. It’s one of those tracks where I have a lot of seat time. I spent a lot of time there before moving to North Carolina. Before going NASCAR racing, my wife and I actually lived not too far from there for a season of life. When I was young and coming up through formula cars, I worked outside of Turn 11. For me, the track is super straightforward. It’s one line, there’s not a lot of tricks, you have to manage your tires and be technical to be fast. So, I enjoy it, and it’s been good for us across the last couple of years. I think we finished second and third the last few years and picked up a top-five finish last year. I think we are close. So, it’s just a place that I am comfortable with, which is great after San Diego, where there were a lot of unknowns. I know my marks, I know my rhythm, and it all comes together well. I do think it’s still one of the tracks if you save your tires, it will pay off. At Watkins Glen now, every lap is like qualifying, just hammering down, which is fun, too. Sonoma is its own fun where you still have that technical aspect of managing everything pretty well to have a shot at the end.”

Travis Peterson – Crew Chief, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Travis Peterson is the crew chief for Michael McDowell and Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Peterson has called three Cup Series races for McDowell at Sonoma Raceway, where the potent duo has combined for a solid 10.0 starting average and an even-more-impressive 4.3 average finish.
  • In addition to calling McDowell’s second-place finish in 2024, Peterson played a key role in Chris Buescher’s 2022 runner-up effort while serving as a race engineer for RFK Racing.
  • The Wisconsin native has earned nine Cup Series top fives, eight of which have come on roadcourses.
  • Peterson called McDowell’s win in the 2023 Verizon 200 at the Brickyard on the roadcourse at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Carson Hocevar – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Carson Hocevar will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Classic Collision Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s 110-lap race at Sonoma Raceway, his third start at the 1.99-mile racecourse in NASCAR’s premier division.
  • Classic Collision, founded in 1983 in Atlanta, Ga., is built on a foundation of quality, integrity, and honesty. With a skilled team and unwavering standards, Classic Collision delivers exceptional service to its customers and partners. As one of the largest privately held auto body repair providers in the U.S., Classic Collision operates 350 state-of-the-art facilities nationwide. For over 40 years, safety has been our top priority. Our highly trained technicians, cutting-edge equipment, and manufacturer certifications make us a leader in collision repair.
  • Drifter, a feature film set to release later this year, will be featured on the tail and decklid of Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevy this weekend. Written, directed and starring Sung Kang, Drifter is a high-octane underdog story that follows a lonely racetrack janitor whose hidden gift for drifting catapults him into the adrenaline-fueled world of professional motorsports. As the stakes rise on and off the track, he must outrun his past, embrace an unlikely family and risk everything for a shot at redemption and glory.
  • Hocevar will face Zane Smith in the opening round of this year’s In-Season Challenge. He’s outperformed Smith in 11 races this season, as well as 54 of the 90 Cup Series races where the former teammates competed head-to-head.
  • Through 17 races, the Portage, Mich., native sits ninth in points, just one marker out of eighth. His one win, four top fives, seven top 10s, 476 points scored, average starting position of 11.3 and 14.8 average finish are all career highs through the first 17 points-paying races of the season. The team’s average starting position has improved by seven spots while its average finish is nearly eight positions better compared to this point in 2025.
  • Hocevar has made two Cup Series starts at Sonoma, highlighted by a 17th-place finish in 2024.
  • Hocevar captured his first and only CRAFTSMAN Truck Series pole position at Sonoma Raceway in his lone appearance at the venue in 2022, just one week removed from sustaining a leg injury at World Wide Technology Raceway near St. Louis. He was ultimately relieved during a Lap 11 pit stop by current Spire Motorsports teammate Daniel Suárez. Despite falling a lap down due to the driver swap, Suárez drove the truck to a sixth-place finish, which was ultimately credited to Hocevar in the history books.
  • Last Sunday on the streets of Naval Base Coronado, the 23-year-old driver earned a career-best qualifying effort on a road course with a second-place showing. Hocevar maintained his footing in the top-10 most of the afternoon and led twice for four laps. With 12 laps remaining, Hocevar was turned by a fellow competitor while racing for the lead, leaving him with a disappointing 19th-place finish.
  • The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year registered his first-career victory earlier this season at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. He survived a late-race restart with three laps remaining with help from his Chevrolet teammates and brought home the checkered flag. Hocevar became the 13th driver to earn his inaugural series victory at Talladega, and registered Spire Motorsports’ first win since the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway with driver Justin Haley.

Carson Hocevar Quotes
While you didn’t get the finish you were hoping for last week, you put together, arguably, the strongest road course performance of your career. How do you build off that momentum heading into Sonoma?
“I am excited. I probably wasn’t super excited heading into San Diego from a performance standpoint. I was looking forward to the event and everything around it, but we were a straight-up contender throughout the weekend. Going to Sonoma, I have two great teammates to lean on. Michael (McDowell) really loves that place and is arguably one of his best tracks and Daniel (Suarez) has won there. So, I have some good data points with them, a good idea for the car, and a good setup. We had a really fast car last weekend, and I know our team will have a fast Classic Collision Chevy this week. It makes me excited that we can run strong there.”

Luke Lambert – Crew Chief, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Luke Lambert is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Lambert is in his third season at Spire Motorsports and fourth with driver Carson Hocevar. The duo has logged two pole awards, one win, seven top-five and 22 top-10 finishes in 97 races.
  • In 10 NASCAR Cup Series events at Sonoma Raceway, the Mount Airy, N.C., native earned a venue-best eighth-place finish in 2016 with driver Ryan Newman.
  • The 16-year veteran crew chief has called 45 Cup Series road and street course races, earning a best finish of third at Watkins Glen with Hocevar in 2024.

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 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.