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Spire Motorsports Atlanta NASCAR Cup Series Race Advance

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Official Release
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  • In 26 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS), Spire Motorsports has logged three top-five, four top-10 and seven top-15 finishes. Carson Hocevar, driver of the team’s No. 77 Spectrum Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, posted a team-best runner-up finish in last February’s Ambetter Health 400 at the 1.5-mile quad-oval. Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the Cup Series for Daniel Suarez, Michael McDowell and Hocevar, respectively.
  • The NASCAR Cup Series race at AMS will be televised live on FOX, Sunday, Feb. 22 beginning at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The second of 36 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series calendar will 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 Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Atlanta.
  • On February 25, 2024, Suárez earned his second career NASCAR Cup Series victory when he took the checkered flag at AMS, by winning the Ambetter Health 400 in one of the closest finishes in series’ history. Suárez prevailed in a dramatic three-wide sprint to the checkered flag, edging out Ryan Blaney and Kyle Busch by a scant 0.003 seconds. The victory was his first since 2022 at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway and secured Suárez’s spot in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs.
  • The two-time NASCAR Cup Series winner has made 14 starts at Atlanta, earning one victory, four top-five, six top-10 and eight top-20 results. He holds an average starting position of 21.6 and an average finishing position of 17.2 at the 1.54-mile quad-oval. In total, he has led 32 laps at AMS.
  • Last Sunday, Suárez started from the rear of the field in the Daytona 500 in a back-up car, after his primary car was damaged in Thursday’s qualifying race. He climbed the leaderboard, earning stage points with fifth- and 10th-place finishes in the race’s first and second stages. Suárez ran a fuel-saving strategy during the final stage and earned a respectable 13th-place finish in his No. 7 Freeway Insurance Chevrolet.
  • This weekend, One Inc., will step into an associate sponsor role aboard Suarez’s No. 7 machine. One Inc. is modernizing the insurance industry through a unified and frictionless payment network. Focusing only on the insurance industry, One Inc helps carriers transform their operations by reducing costs, increasing security, and optimizing customer experience. The comprehensive end-to-end digital payments platform provides expanded payment options, multi-channel digital communications, and rapid digital claim payment, even for the most complex insurance use cases. As one of the fastest growing digital payments platforms in the insurance industry, One Inc manages billions of dollars per year in premiums and claims payments. For more information, please visit www.oneinc.com.
  • 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.
  • Suárez has made two NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at AMS prior to the track reconfiguration in 2022, earning one top-10 and two top-20 finishes. He recorded his career-best series result at Atlanta with a seventh-place finish in March 2016.
  • The Monterrey, Mexico native earned a fourth-place finish in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at AMS in 2015.
  • The 34-year-old is a veteran of 324 Cup Series starts and has notched two wins (Sonoma, June 2022 and AMS, Feb. 2024), 25 top fives and 76 top 10s in NASCAR’s premier division. Suarez has led a total of 907 laps and has earned three poles since entering the series full time in 2017.

Daniel Suárez Quotes
How do you view Atlanta? Is it a superspeedway or an intermediate racetrack?
“I don’t think it’s either in my opinion. I think it’s a hybrid track and the reason why I like it so much is because it is very different. It doesn’t race like a 1.5-mile track but it also doesn’t race like a superspeedway, either, because everything happens so quick. The way the track is built, the speed in the corners, the banking is just completely different when you compare it to another 1.5 mile track, for example, Kansas Speedway. So, the way I see it, yes maybe on paper people call Atlanta a superspeedway with that style of racing, but to me it’s a hybrid.”

How mentally taxing is Atlanta compared to other tracks?
“Atlanta is very mentally exhausting. At most 1.5-mile tracks, you usually get some space after five or 10 laps to move around, and at superspeedways, it’s intense but mostly in the first 15 laps. At Atlanta, you never get space—you can’t relax or reset. Even running 25th, it’s still super intense. You have to go full speed and constantly learn and adjust during the race. There’s no time to think about what just happened because everything happens so fast.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Ryan Sparks

  • Ryan Sparks has called 203 NASCAR Cup Series races, earning five top-five and 11 top-10 finishes since making his Cup Series debut atop the pit box in 2020.
  • The Winston-Salem, N.C., native’s best finish at AMS came in the 2023 Ambetter Health 400, where he led the No. 7 team to a fourth-place result. Sparks has called nine races at Atlanta, producing one top-five and two top-10 finishes. Overall, Sparks has led the charge in 96 races on drafting-style tracks.
  • 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 the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, Sparks serves as crew chief for Daniel Suárez.
  • Sparks 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 2011 CRAFTMAN Truck Series and 2013 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

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

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 B’laster Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at AMS.
  • McDowell owns 20 NASCAR Cup Series starts at AMS, highlighted by one top five, two top 10s and 58 laps led. He started 20th and claimed a venue-best fourth-place finish in fall 2022.
  • In last year’s spring race at the Hampton, Ga., quad-oval, McDowell ran into power steering issues early in the race and was forced to retreat to the garage where he lost six laps while the team effected repairs. With the help of a handful of timely cautions and savvy work from the driver’s seat, McDowell raced his way back to the lead lap to earn a respectable 13th-place finish.
  • In 2024, McDowell and crew chief Travis Peterson swept qualifying in both races at AMS, leading the field to green at both events.
  • Across his last five attempts at AMS, the 41-year-old driver holds an average finish of 13th with only one finish outside of the top 20.
  • B’laster will return as the primary partner for this weekend’s 400-mile contest. The No. 71 Chevrolet will feature two of its PB penetrant products as part of the livery. Founded in 1957 with PB B’laster Penetrant, B’laster offers a full line of high-performance penetrants, lubricants, solvents, greases, refrigerants and protectants. B’laster products are trusted in garages and race shops nationwide to break loose, clean up, and protect.
  • In last week’s season-opener at Daytona International Speedway, the No. 71 Modo Casino Chevrolet finished fourth in Thursday night’s qualifying race, to earn a 10th-place starting spot for the Daytona 500. McDowell led 10 laps and was second in the running order when the white flag was displayed, but was collected in a last-lap melee and left with a disappointing 22nd-place finish.
  • With 35 points-paying races left on the 2026 schedule, McDowell is 17th in the driver standings, after earning additional points in Thursday’s qualifying race and stage points on Sunday.

Michael McDowell Quote
What did you learn during Atlanta last year that you can use for this weekend?
“I am looking forward to going to Atlanta with B’laster on our Spire Motorsports Chevy.
We obviously had some troubles there on the No. 71 last year and rallied back to the lead lap, but 77 had a great run there at the end of the race; Carson was one of the fastest cars. So, we have a good notebook and good momentum coming off Daytona with having cars that had lots of speed and handled well, now going to another drafting semi-speedway track to hopefully redeem ourselves from Daytona.”

Atop the No. 71 Box – Crew Chief Travis Peterson

  • Travis Peterson, in his fourth season as McDowell’s crew chief, led his driver to both pole positions at AMS in 2024.
  • Peterson also served as race engineer on the No. 9 JR Motorsports Chevrolet that Chase Elliott drove to a pole in qualifying at Atlanta in 2014.
  • Peterson contributed to several victories during his tenure at RFK Racing, Hendrick Motorsports and JR Motorsports, highlighted by clinching the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series title in 2014 and racking up three Cup Series wins with Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and the No. 88 team in 2015.
  • Peterson is a mechanical engineering graduate of the Williams States Lee College of Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The West Bend, Wis., native earned his degree in 2012.

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

  • Carson Hocevar will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Spectrum Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s 400-mile NASCAR Cup Series race at AMS.
  • Hocevar came within 2.5 miles of victory in last weekend’s Daytona 500 before chaos enveloped the field with one lap to go. He led the field to the white flag, but contact initiated by another competitor heading into Turn 1 sent him into the outside retaining wall, ultimately spinning in front of the field. He was eventually scored 18th in the final rundown.
  • The 23-year-old diver will pull double duty this weekend at AMS, where he’ll pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevy Silverado prior to his traditional NASCAR Cup Series duties aboard the team’s No. 77 Spectrum Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s 266-lap race.
  • Last February, Hocevar started 26th at the 1.54-mile quad-oval, but was quick to climb the leaderboard. He picked up stage points in each of the first two segments and positioned himself to contend for his first Cup Series win in NASCAR Overtime. He made a three-wide move for the lead, but a caution for an incident while the leaders were making their way through Turns 3 and 4 brought the race to an end. Hocevar was ultimately scored with a second-place finish.
  • Hocevar put on a statistical showcase last February, averaging a top-10 running position (9.59) while spending 90.6 percent (241-of-266 laps) of the race within the top 15, all while registering the most green flag passes and quality passes and calculating a 105.0 driver rating.
  • In four Cup Series starts at Atlanta, the Portage, Mich., native has finished no worse than 19th, tallying one top-five and two top-10 results. He finished 10th in the series’ most recent visit to the 1.54-mile venue last September.
  • The five-time CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race winner owns three previous starts at AMS, where he earned a venue-best 16th-place finish in 2021, one year prior to the track’s reconfiguration.
  • In 14 Cup Series starts on drafting-style tracks, Hocevar has tallied one top-five, four top-10 and 10 top-20 results, highlighted by his runner-up finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway last February.
  • Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company available to 58 million homes and small to large businesses across 41 states. Founded in 1993, Charter has evolved from providing cable TV to streaming, and from high-speed Internet to a converged broadband, WiFi and mobile experience. Over the Spectrum Fiber Broadband Network and supported by our 100 percent U.S.-based employees, the Company offers Seamless Connectivity and Entertainment with Spectrum Internet®, Mobile, TV and Voice products. More information can be found at corporate.charter.com.

Carson Hocevar Quotes
What does it take to win at Atlanta?
“You just have to make moves. All offense, no defense.”

What about the new configuration at Atlanta has clicked for you?
“I’ve been envious and watched a bunch of races at the old bumpy Daytona. Every time I get to run Atlanta it just makes me think about bumpy Daytona where you can draft by yourself. You don’t need anybody. You can just make moves and time things. It’s basically all offense. It just works for me. If this move didn’t work, I’ll get back in line and make the next one. And if that didn’t work, I’ll make the next one. Eventually, one of my six moves is going to work and I’ll gain spots. Ultimately, I’m just smiling the whole time because it reminds me of those nostalgic 2000s era races at Daytona. Atlanta provides the opportunity and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do, so that’s the best thing we got.”

How do you balance the disappointment of the finish of last weekend’s Daytona 500 with the optimism of Atlanta this weekend?
“Well we ran second in the Duel on Thursday, and were right where we needed to be on Sunday. We were leading coming to the white, but obviously, things just didn’t work out. I’m not too disappointed knowing we were where we needed to be and there isn’t really anything I could have done to prevent the outcome. If anything, I am more confident for Atlanta this weekend.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Luke Lambert

  • Crew chief Luke Lambert enters his third season at Spire Motorsports and fourth with Carson Hocevar. The duo has logged one pole award, three top-five and 15 top-10 finishes in 81 races together.
  • The 16-year veteran crew chief has called 17 NASCAR Cup Series events at Atlanta, six of which have come since the track’s 2022 reconfiguration, where he’s tallied one top-five and five top-10 finishes. He also played a key role in Jeff Burton’s trio of top fives from 2007-2010 as a race engineer at Richard Childress Racing.
  • In three NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races atop the box at AMS, Lambert, 43, snagged one top-five and two top-10 results, highlighted by a fourth-place finish on the previous configuration with Elliott Sadler in 2012.

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 on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 30, 2025, when Rajah Caruth took the checkered flag in the Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports will campaign 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 will also field the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

1,000TH FUNNY CAR RACE COMING TO LUCAS OIL NHRA WINTERNATIONALS IN POMONA

By
Official Release
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POMONA, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2026) – In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip will again make history this spring during NHRA’s milestone 75th season, as the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals will play host to the 1,000th Funny Car race in NHRA history on April 9-12 on the hallowed grounds at Pomona.

Funny Car made its first-ever appearance at the 1966 World Finals in Tulsa, with Eddie Schartman picking up the victory. NHRA’s milestone year in 2026 will begin with the 998th Funny Car race at the season-opening Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, with the historic moment coming two races later in Pomona.

The 12,000-horsepower, 340-mph Funny Cars have made history for 60 years, but only one driver will lay claim to being the winner of the 1,000th Funny Car race in NHRA history. Last year, Shawn Langdon took the honors at the 1,000th Top Fuel race, while a host of standouts will have their shot in Pomona to etch their own place in history.

To get here, this list showcases the first and then every 100th Funny Car winner heading into the historic Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona:

  1. Eddie Schartman, 1966 Tulsa, World Finals
  2. Tripp Shumake, 1981 Atlanta
  3. Bruce Larson, 1989 Winternationals
  4. John Force, 1994 Topeka
  5. Tim Wilkerson, 1999 Chicago
  6. Wilkerson, 2003 U.S. Nationals in Indy
  7. Jack Beckman, 2008 Phoenix
  8. Johnny Gray, 2012 Englishtown
  9. Force, 2016 Denver
  10. Cruz Pedregon, 2021 Norwalk

So who will win the 75th anniversary Diamond Wally at the 1,000th race in Funny Car history? Will it be back-to-back world champion Austin Prock, who has dominated the past two seasons? Others, including John Force Racing standouts Beckman, who won the Winternationals last year, and his new teammate, Jordan Vandergriff, while Top 75 drivers like Ron Capps, Matt Hagan and Pedregon would love to win the magical 1,000th race. One thing is for certain: it will be one of the highlights of NHRA’s milestone 2026 campaign.

Cruz Pedregon, 2021 Norwalk win

Legends from those landmark races will all be on hand in Pomona to add to the celebration, while the winner of the 1,000th Funny Car race in Pomona will also receive a special trophy to go along with the diamond Wally.

NHRA legend Kenny Bernstein will also be on hand in Pomona to help celebrate this monumental moment and NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. His historic run at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in 1994 – becoming the first to break the 310-mph barrier – will be the commemorative ticket and moment for the weekend, with the first 4,000 fans in attendance on Friday set to receive a special NHRA 75th anniversary Winternationals event poster.

In 2025, Clay Millican (Top Fuel), Beckman (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) claimed Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals wins. This year’s race will be broadcast on FS1, with elimination coverage on Sunday April 12 beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Millican, a Top Fuel fan-favorite, claimed his eighth career win last season – and first in Pomona – when he took out motorsports legend Tony Stewart in the final round. Millican advanced to two more finals in 2025, while Stewart won NHRA’s first regular season title. However, it was Top Fuel veteran Doug Kalitta who claimed his second world title at Pomona at the conclusion of the season. Others to look for will be multi-time Pomona winners Tony Schumacher, Antron Brown and Justin Ashley.

Greg Anderson, the winningest active NHRA driver, won his 16th race at the famed facility over KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn. The duo battled all season for the championship, but it was Glenn who earned his first title. Anderson, Glenn and the rest of KB Titan Racing will again be up against their longtime rivals at Elite Motorsports, led by six-time world champ Erica Enders, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Aaron Stanfield.

Along with racing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, fans will also be treated to action in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. The Nitro Alley Stage is a huge attraction all weekend and is the main entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, Total Seal Tech Talk, the NHRA Insider Live, meet and greets, and much more. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds and get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun.

Race fans at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying features qualifying at 1:30 and 4 p.m. PT on Friday, April 10, and the final two rounds on Saturday, April 11 at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, April 12.

To purchase tickets to the 2026 Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. Fans can get closer to the action with a Top Eliminator Club experience, offering the best seats in the house and a premium experience, as well as a members-only hospitality center, complimentary food and beverage, driver appearances, a premium view and more. For more information about the NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Ford Racing NASCAR – Atlanta 1 Advance

By
Official Release
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ATLANTA

Saturday, February 21 – NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, 1:30 p.m. ET (FS1)
Saturday, February 21 – NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, 5 p.m. ET (CW)
Sunday, February 22 – NASCAR Cup Series, 3 p.m. ET (FOX)

After opening the 2026 season at Daytona International Speedway, Ford Racing teams in all three of NASCAR’s top series will head to EchoPark Speedway (formerly known as Atlanta Motor Speedway) for the first of two visits this year. Chandler Smith will be looking to start the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season with back-to-back wins after his Daytona victory while Nick Sanchez goes for consecutive track wins in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. The weekend culminates with the NASCAR Cup Series on Sunday afternoon.

QUALIFYING DOMINANCE

When it comes to qualifying in recent years, no manufacturer has been more dominant than Ford, which has captured the NASCAR Cup Series pole six straight times. The Blue Oval hasn’t only won the pole, but it has swept the front row in each of those qualifying sessions. Team Penske has led the way during this two-year stretch as all three drivers – Joey Logano, Ryan Blaney and Austin Cindric – have qualified in the top 10 for each race. The organization has also had at least one driver start on the front row in each of the last six races. Here’s a list of Ford’s qualifying success since 2023.

FORD LOOKING TO EXTEND ATLANTA POLE STREAK TO SEVEN

  • Joey Logano ran Ford Racing’s streak of Cup poles at EchoPark Speedway to six after putting his No. 22 Autotrader Ford Mustang Dark Horse on the pole in June.
  • The list of pole winners during that span includes: Joey Logano and Michael McDowell (twice each), Aric Almirola and Ryan Blaney (once each).
  • Ford has swept the front row in six straight AMS qualifying sessions – Logano/Berry (2025-2), Blaney/Cindric (2025-1), McDowell/Blaney (2024-2), McDowell/Logano (2024-1), Almirola/Blaney (2023-2), Logano/Cindric (2023-1).
  • Team Penske has had at least one driver start on the front row in each of the last six races (Logano, 2025-2; Blaney and Cindric, 2025-1; Blaney, 2024-2; Logano, 2024-1; Blaney, 2023-2; Logano and Cindric, 2023-1)
  • Ford swept the top 8 spots in the 2023 spring race.
  • Ford swept the top 6 spots in the 2023 summer race.
  • Ford swept the top 5 spots in the 2024 summer race.
  • Ford swept the top 5 spots and 9 of the top 10 in the 2025 spring race.
  • Ford swept the top 8 spots in the 2025 summer race.

KESELOWSKI GETS FIRST CUP WIN FOR MUSTANG

In 2019, Brad Keselowski gave Mustang its first NASCAR Cup Series victory as he held off Martin Truex Jr. at the finish line to win the Folds of Honor 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Keselowski, who was battling an illness all weekend and had Austin Cindric standing by in case he needed relief, led the final 33 laps to post his 28th career victory. In all, Ford Racing led 177 of the 325 laps and won for the third straight year at the 1.5-mile track.

SANCHEZ RETURNING TO SITE OF FIRST WIN

Nick Sanchez will be looking to make it back-to-back wins in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at EchoPark Speedway after he took the checkered flag there in June. The win was his first in the series and came after he qualified on the pole. Sanchez, who is in his first year with AM Racing, led three times for 18 laps and passed Jesse Love with six circuits remaining to claim the victory.

SMITH TURNS HEARTBREAK INTO TRIUMPH

Ford F-150 driver Chandler Smith seemingly did everything right in his attempt to make last week’s Daytona 500, but circumstances on the final lap of his Duel qualifying race kept him from making the field. One night later, that disappointment turned into joy as he scored a dramatic season-opening victory in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Smith entered turn three of the final lap in fifth place, but thanks to a push from fellow Ford driver Ty Majeski, Smith rode the inside lane to victory as the four trucks in front of him battled each other. The win marked the third time in the last five years that Ford Racing and Front Row Motorsports have captured the first race of the year at Daytona International Speedway. A win this weekend in Atlanta would make Smith the first driver since Ben Rhodes in 2021 to capture back-to-back races to start the season.

FORD’S ATLANTA CUP SERIES WINNERS

1961 – Fred Lorenzen

1962 – Fred Lorenzen

1963 – Fred Lorenzen

1964 – Fred Lorenzen and Ned Jarrett

1965 – Marvin Panch (Sweep)

1967 – Cale Yarborough and Dick Hutcherson

1968 – LeeRoy Yarbrough

1969 – LeeRoy Yarbrough

1975 – Buddy Baker

1978 – Bobby Allison

1981 – Neil Bonnett

1985 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1987 – Ricky Rudd and Bill Elliott

1990 – Morgan Shepherd

1991 – Mark Martin

1992 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1993 – Morgan Shepherd

1994 – Ernie Irvan and Mark Martin

1997 – Dale Jarrett

2002 – Kurt Busch

2005 – Carl Edwards (Sweep)

2008 – Carl Edwards

2017 – Brad Keselowski

2018 – Kevin Harvick

2019 – Brad Keselowski

2020 – Kevin Harvick

2021 – Ryan Blaney (1)

2023 – Joey Logano (1)

2024 – Joey Logano (2)

FORD’S ATLANTA NOAPS WINNERS

1992 – Jeff Gordon

1997 – Mark Martin

1998 – Mark Martin

2000 – Mark Martin

2004 – Matt Kenseth

2005 – Carl Edwards

2008 – Matt Kenseth

2011 – Carl Edwards

2012 – Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

2018 – Kevin Harvick

FORD’S ATLANTA TRUCK SERIES WINNERS

2020 – Grant Enfinger

As the spirit of America, the Ford Mustang is the world’s best selling sports car and one of the planet’s most popular race cars. With Mustang-based race cars competing in international sports car competition (GT3 and GT4), NASCAR, NHRA, Formula Drift, in Supercars, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and in its own bespoke regional one-make series – Mustang Cup and Mustang Challenge – the platform has an unprecedented global reach. This weekend, 24 Mustang race cars are scheduled to race across all disciplines. Learn more about Mustang at www.FordRacing.com .

Rebel Bourbon rolls out Rebel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel 2026 Selected By Kyle Busch

By
Official Release
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The Official Bourbon of Richard Childress Racing launches annual limited-edition release for a second year with every barrel hand-picked by Busch

ST. LOUIS (Feb. 17, 2026) – Rebel Bourbon fans have a new reason to get rowdy. The official bourbon of Richard Childress Racing announced the release of Rebel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel Selected By Kyle Busch. With guidance from Rebel Bourbon Master Distiller John Rempe, the two-time NASCAR® Cup Series champion and driver of the No. 8 Chevrolet hand-picked every barrel for this limited-edition release, which is bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV) in honor of Rebel’s RCR sponsorship.

Handcrafted according to Rebel’s original time-honored wheated recipe since 1849, Rebel Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel is aged for a full four years to ensure robust flavor and a velvety smooth finish with a hint of spice. The special edition ships this month and will be available nationwide at a minimum suggested retail price of $39.99 per 750mL bottle.

“Kyle and the RCR team stand out as real rebels, doing things their own way with a defiant attitude to drive to win, and that lifestyle is what Rebel Bourbon is all about,” said Philip Lux, Rebel Bourbon brand manager. “Every bottle of our new Rebel Single Barrel is a one-of-a-kind, made in tribute to that rebel spirit in Kyle and all of us.”

Bottled in the signature Rebel Bourbon bottle featuring Lux Row Distillers embossing, Rebel Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel features a distinctive gold label with a checkered flag pattern underneath bold RCR branding and the No. 8 graphic along with Busch’s signature. Each label also displays the bottle’s unique barrel details including the number and fill date.

“For the third year now I’m proud to race with the Rebel brand, and having the opportunity to create another run of KB 108 with Rebel’s John Rempe has been a total thrill,” said Busch. “I’m proud to have my name and the No. 8 on every bottle and I think fans are really going to enjoy it.”

Rebel Bourbon plans to host bottle signings with Busch and Rempe in key race markets throughout the 2026 NASCAR season. Busch will be behind the wheel of the No. 8 Rebel Bourbon Chevrolet in select NASCAR Cup Series races including the DuraMAX Grand Prix March 1 in Austin, Texas. To learn more about Rebel-RCR news and events in race markets, follow Rebel on Facebook and Instagram, and RCR on Facebook and Instagram, and visit RebelBourbon.com and rcrracing.com. Use the product locator to find Rebel Bourbon products in specific locations.

About Rebel Bourbon

Distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by Lux Row Distillers Master Distiller John Rempe, Rebel Bourbon features a wheated mash bill true to its original recipe dating back to 1849, when it was invented at the Stitzel-Weller distillery. Our defiantly smooth premium wheated bourbon celebrates those who embrace bold originality and a rebellious spirit. Our products have earned top spirits industry honors including Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year for Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. Rebel 10-Year Single Barrel also won a double platinum medal at the 2025 ASCOT Awards, a double gold medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a double gold medal and Consumer’s Choice Award at the 2025 SIP Awards. To learn more, visit RebelBourbon.com and follow @rebelbourbon on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

About Luxco

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products with a mission to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Luxco operates as MGP Ingredients Inc. (Nasdaq: MGPI) Branded Spirits division since its acquisition in 2021. The company’s extensive and award-winning premium portfolio includes brands from four distilleries: Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Penelope and Remus bourbon are produced; Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Rebel, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath bourbons; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Bourbon; and Arandas, Mexico-based Destiladora Gonzalez Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas including Cortada, El Mayor, Escasa and Exotico. For more information, visit Luxco.com.

About Richard Childress Racing

Richard Childress Racing is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 17 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2026 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series program with defending series champion Jesse Love (No. 2 Chevrolet) and 2023 regular season champion Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

B’laster Holdings Partners with McDowell, Spire Motorsports for Two Races in 2026

By
Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 17, 2026) – B’laster Holdings, home to trusted automotive brands B’laster and GUNK, will return to the NASCAR Cup Series as a primary partner with Spire Motorsports and veteran driver Michael McDowell for two races in 2026.

The No. 71 Chevrolet will showcase the B’laster brand at Atlanta Motor Speedway Feb. 22, followed by the GUNK brand at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway April 26, where McDowell earned his second pole of the 2025 season last October.

B’laster Holdings first partnered with Spire Motorsports in 2025, with McDowell earning a 13th-place finish at the famed 2.66-mile Alabama tri-oval last spring with GUNK serving as the team’s primary partner. The former open-wheel racer topped that effort with his first top-five finish of the year at Mexico City’s Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, where the B’laster livery was showcased aboard his No. 71 machine.

“Racing is the ultimate proving ground, and that mindset is deeply embedded in everything we do at B’laster,” said Matt Bender, Marketing Director at B’laster Holdings. “Partnering with Michael and Spire Motorsports allows us to put our brands in front of passionate fans while reinforcing what B’laster and GUNK stand for – performance, reliability, and getting the job done under the toughest conditions.”

McDowell, a veteran of NASCAR’s premier division with 18 years behind the wheel, has earned two wins, eight poles, 14 top-five and 50 top-10 finishes, highlighted by victories at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway (2021) and Indianapolis Motor Speedway (2023), including playoff berths both seasons.

“I’m thankful to represent B’laster Holdings again in 2026,” said McDowell. “We’ve built a strong partnership over the years, and their support means the world. Atlanta and Talladega are tracks we feel good about and real opportunities for us to race our way to Victory Lane.”

Founded in 1957, B’laster products are trusted in race shops and garages nationwide, offering a broad lineup that includes penetrants, lubricants, greases, solvents, protectants, refrigerants and specialty chemicals designed to help professionals and DIYers get the job done right.

McDowell’s B’laster-branded No. 71 Chevrolet will compete at Atlanta Motor Speedway Sunday, Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, followed by the GUNK-branded car at Talladega Superspeedway for the Jack Link’s 500 on Sunday, April 26 at 3 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Both races will be broadcast live on FOX and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

About B’laster Holdings…
B’laster Holdings is a leading manufacturer of specialty chemical products trusted by professionals and DIYers to get the job done. The company is home to a portfolio of iconic brands known for performance, reliability, and innovation across the automotive, industrial, and home improvement markets. B’laster Holdings takes pride in its customer-first mindset, operational flexibility, and people-focused culture, delivering solutions that work when it matters most. Its family of brands includes B’laster, GUNK, Liquid Wrench, AC Avalanche, Casite, and Titeseal.

About B’laster…
Founded in 1957 with PB B’laster Penetrant, B’laster offers a full line of high-performance penetrants, lubricants, solvents, greases, refrigerants and protectants. B’laster products are trusted in garages and race shops nationwide to break loose, clean up, and protect.

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 on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 30, 2025, when Rajah Caruth took the checkered flag in the Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports will campaign 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 will also field the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

Oh, Brother! Oberhofer Brothers Together Again at Rick Ware Racing

By
Official Release
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Jim Oberhofer (left), Nicky Boninfante (center), Jon Oberhofer (right)

Jim and Jon Oberhofer To Serve as Crew Chiefs for Top Fuel Drivers Tony Schumacher and Clay Millican in 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series

Nicky Boninfante Named Co-Crew Chief of Both Top Fuel Dragsters

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 17, 2026) – For as long as they have been brothers, Jim and Jon Oberhofer have been involved in drag racing. Since attending races with their father, Dave, the Oberhofer Brothers have been nearly inseparable, working with their dad on the Top Fuel dragsters he was a part of and eventually carving their own drag racing paths, most prominently with Kalitta Motorsports.

In 2026, Jim and Jon Oberhofer are together again, this time at Rick Ware Racing (RWR) where the duo will serve as the crew chiefs for Top Fuel drivers Tony Schumacher and Clay Millican, respectively, in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Joining them as co-crew chief for both entries will be another NHRA veteran, Nicky Boninfante.

“When you look at what Jim and Jon have accomplished in this sport, it’s remarkable. Championships, U.S. Nationals wins, decades of experience at the highest level, but what really stands out to me is that they’ve grown up in this business together. There’s built-in trust and understanding that isn’t manufactured. Pair that with Nicky’s experience and success, and you’ve got three guys who have seen every scenario drag racing can throw at you,” said team owner Rick Ware.

“In NHRA, performance comes down to thousandths of a second, and chemistry matters just as much as horsepower. We feel like we’ve assembled a leadership group that gives both Tony and Clay the tools to compete for wins and contend for championships.”

Jim Oberhofer had been Millican’s crew chief since 2022 and when RWR acquired the team in 2023, Jim remained in the role and an integral part of the operation, which has gone on to win five Top Fuel event victories, including the 2024 U.S. Nationals. With the addition of eight-time Top Fuel champion Tony Schumacher to RWR for the final seven races of 2025, Jim was moved to crew chief of Schumacher’s No. 15 American Communications Construction dragster. The best person to lead Millican’s No. 51 Parts Plus Top Fuel program and maintain its winning ways was, of course, another Oberhofer.

Jon Oberhofer comes to RWR from Kalitta where he rose from cylinder head specialist on the double championship-winning Top Fuel dragster of Scott Kalitta in 1994-1995 to co-crew chief for Top Fuel drivers Dave Grubnic (2004-2007) and Doug Kalitta (2007-2008), and Funny Car drivers Jeff Arend (2009-2013), Del Worsham (2014-2016) and J.R. Todd (2017-2025). In addition to the two Top Fuel titles Jim was a part of in 1994-1995, he won two Funny Car championships via Worsham in 2015 and Todd in 2018. And, like his brother, Jon has tasted victory at the prestigious U.S. Nationals, winning back-to-back with Todd in 2017-2018.

“Jim and I have worked together a lot over the years, so there’s already an understanding before you even open the trailer in the morning,” Jon said. “We don’t have to explain much because we already know what each other is thinking. Coming into Rick Ware Racing with Tony and Clay and having Nicky there too, it just felt comfortable right away. It’s competitive, but it’s also fun, and that’s usually when you do your best work.”

Jim Oberhofer began his time at Kalitta as a parts washer in 1983. After working with Frank Cook and Chuck Landers on their Alcohol Funny Car in 1984-1986 and Jay Meyer’s Top Alcohol dragster in 1987, Jim retuned to Kalitta in 1988 as a crew member for Scott Kalitta and his Top Fuel dragster. He soon took on many roles, from cylinder head specialist for Scott Kalitta to co-crew chief for Top Fuel driver Doug Kalitta (2000-2003) to crew chief for Scott Kalitta (2004-2005), Hillary Will (2006-2008) and Doug Kalitta (2009-2018), all while serving as the team’s general manager for 18 years (2000-2017).

“Jon and I have spent our whole lives around these cars, so getting the chance to do this together again is pretty special,” Jim said. “We’ve both worked different paths over the years, but the approach never really changes. You pay attention to the details and take care of the people around you. Tony and Clay give great feedback, Nicky brings a steady hand across both teams, and that makes our job easier. It feels like a group that knows how to work together before the season even starts.”

Like the Oberhofers, Nicky Boninfante began his drag racing career attending races in the early 1970s with his father, Nick Boninfante Sr. Nicky has also curated an impressive resume that includes previous crossovers with the Oberhofers, as he spent two stints at Kalitta – Top Fuel in 1994-1995 as clutch specialist for Scott Kalitta before returning in 2008 as crew chief for Doug Kalitta in Top Fuel and then co-crew chief in Funny Car from 2009 through 2019 with drivers Arend (2009-2013), Worsham (2014-2016), Alexis DeJoria (2017) and Shawn Langdon (2018-2019). In 2015, Boninfante pulled double duty by also serving as crew chief for Worsham, where they won the 2015 NHRA Funny Car championship.

“After being around this sport as long as I have, you recognize when a group fits. There’s respect here. Nobody guards information and nobody panics when things don’t go perfectly. That lets you make smarter decisions, and over a long season that usually shows up on the scoreboard,” said Boninfante, who has been with RWR since 2024.

The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series kicks off its milestone 75th season with the NHRA Gatornationals March 5-8 at Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway. Livestreaming of every round can be seen on NHRA.tv with FS1 providing tape-delayed coverage.

About Rick Ware Racing:

Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with wife Lisa by his side, Ware transitioned out of the driver’s seat and into fulltime team ownership. He has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that competes full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning winning teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Progressive American Flat Track (AFT), FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) and zMAX CARS Tour.

Why Do European Cars Need Special Repair and Maintenance Care?

By
SM
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Las Vegas is a world-famous city in southern Nevada. It is located in the Mojave Desert, about 270 miles northeast of Los Angeles and roughly 120 miles southeast of Death Valley. It’s a fast-growing metro area with major neighborhoods and suburbs like Summerlin, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Paradise. 

The city is full of energy, bright lights, and fast roads. Many locals drive luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Land Rover. European cars need special repair and maintenance care because they use advanced engineering, precise parts, and brand-specific systems that require expert tools, diagnostics, and trained technicians. 

If you are searching for European auto repair in Las Vegas, make sure you choose a certified specialist with experience handling luxury brands, proper diagnostic tools, and a strong reputation for reliable, high-quality service.

European cars are built differently from most domestic vehicles. Their engineering is more complex. Their parts are more advanced. And their systems require special tools and training. You cannot treat them like standard American cars.

Let’s break it down.

Advanced Engineering and Design

European cars focus on performance and precision. They often use turbocharged engines, tight suspension systems, and high-performance braking setups. The goal is better handling and smoother rides.

That precision comes with strict standards. These vehicles have tighter tolerances. Parts must fit perfectly. Fluids must meet exact factory specs. Even a small mistake during service can cause bigger problems later.

For example, many European engines require synthetic oil that meets specific manufacturer approvals. Using the wrong oil can lead to buildup, leaks, or engine damage. In the Las Vegas heat, that risk increases. Engines already work harder in extreme temperatures.

Specialized Diagnostic Systems

Modern European cars are packed with technology. They use advanced onboard computers. Sensors monitor fuel systems, steering angles, emissions, and more.

When a warning light turns on, a basic scan tool is often not enough. Many European brands require factory-level diagnostic equipment. These tools connect directly to the vehicle’s software.

Without the right tools, a repair shop may misread the issue. That can lead to unnecessary repairs. It can also leave the real problem unsolved. A trained European technician knows how to interpret the data correctly and fix the issue at its source.

Unique Parts and Components

European vehicles use parts that are different from most domestic models. Even simple components like brake pads, filters, or suspension pieces may be unique.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are usually recommended. Aftermarket parts do not always match the same quality or performance standards. Using low-quality parts can affect safety and handling.

In Las Vegas, heat adds more stress to vehicle components. Rubber seals, batteries, and cooling systems wear out faster. Cheap parts may fail quickly in desert conditions. A European specialist knows which parts hold up best in extreme weather.

Factory-Recommended Maintenance Schedules

European brands follow detailed maintenance schedules. These may include:

  • Specific oil change intervals
  • Brake fluid flushes
  • Transmission service
  • Cooling system inspections

Some models also use condition-based service systems. These systems track driving habits and engine data. They adjust service reminders based on real-time performance.

A general repair shop may overlook these systems. Missing a scheduled service can void warranties or cause expensive repairs later. Following factory guidelines protects both your investment and your vehicle’s performance.

Performance and Safety Standards

European cars are known for strong safety ratings and sharp handling. But these features depend on proper maintenance.

Suspension systems in brands like BMW and Audi are designed for balance and control. If one part wears down, it can affect alignment and tire life. Brake systems are also built for performance. They may use softer materials for better stopping power. That means they can wear faster than standard brakes.

Technicians trained in European models understand these details. They know what signs to look for during inspections. Preventive care saves money in the long run.

The Impact of Las Vegas Climate

Desert heat is no joke. Summer temperatures in Las Vegas can push engines and cooling systems to the limit. Batteries drain faster. Air conditioning systems work harder. Fluids break down more quickly.

European vehicles are often engineered for different climates. Regular inspections are essential in hot regions. Coolant levels, belts, hoses, and AC performance should be checked often.

If you are searching for “European Auto Repair in Las Vegas,” choose a technician who understands how the city’s extreme heat, dry air, and dusty conditions impact European vehicles and can tailor maintenance plans to protect performance and longevity.

Key Takeaways

  • European cars use advanced engineering and require precise service.
  • Specialized diagnostic tools are needed for accurate repairs.
  • OEM and high-quality parts protect performance and safety.
  • Factory maintenance schedules must be followed closely.
  • Las Vegas heat makes proper care even more critical.

The Role of Castor Oil in Anti-Aging Skincare

By
SM
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As we age, maintaining youthful, healthy skin is a priority for many. While the beauty industry offers countless creams, serums, and treatments, natural remedies have gained popularity due to their safety and effectiveness. Among these, castor oil has emerged as a powerful ingredient in anti-aging skincare routines. Packed with nourishing compounds, castor oil can help hydrate, repair, and rejuvenate the skin. In this article, we’ll explore the role of castor oil in anti-aging skincare, its benefits, and practical ways to add it into your routine.

What is Castor Oil?

Castor oil is a vegetable oil that is thick extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It is rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. For centuries, castor oil has been used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and African natural remedies for its healing, moisturizing, and protective benefits.

Companies like The GoodBye Company now offer high-quality, pure castor oil that can be safely used in daily skincare routines, providing a natural alternative to chemical-laden anti-aging products.

Why Castor Oil is Effective for Anti-Aging

1. Deep Moisturization

One of the leading causes of premature aging is dry, dehydrated skin. Castor oil is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the environment into the skin and locks it in. Regular hydration helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a plump, youthful look.

2. Promotes Collagen Production

While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that fatty acids in castor oil can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, proteins responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. By supporting these structural components, castor oil may help slow down sagging and maintain skin suppleness.

3. Antioxidant Protection

Castor oil contains antioxidants that fight free radicals—unstable molecules that contribute to aging and damage from environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation. Antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress, which is a major factor in the formation of wrinkles and age spots.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Ricinoleic acid in castor oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritated or sensitive skin. Reducing inflammation helps minimize redness and puffiness, creating a smoother, more even skin tone.

5. Heals and Repairs Skin

Castor oil is known for its regenerative properties. It promotes the healing of damaged skin, improves texture, and helps reduce the appearance of scars, fine lines, and age spots. Its emollient properties also create a protective barrier that shields the skin from external irritants.

How to Use Castor Oil in Anti-Aging Skincare

1. Nighttime Facial Serum

Mix a few drops of castor oil with a lighter carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil. Apply this mixture to your face before bedtime. The oil will deeply hydrate your skin while you sleep, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Eye Area Treatment

Castor oil is gentle enough to be applied around the eyes to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and puffiness. Dab a small amount on the outer corners of the eyes and gently massage before bedtime.

3. DIY Anti-Aging Masks

Combine castor oil with natural ingredients like honey, aloe vera, or avocado to create a nourishing facial mask. Apply for 15–20 minutes once or twice a week to boost hydration and improve skin elasticity.

4. Lip Care

The delicate skin on your lips can show signs of aging quickly. Apply a thin layer of castor oil to moisturize and soften lips, preventing dryness and fine lines.

5. Body Moisturizer

Castor oil can also be used on dry areas such as elbows, knees, and hands, which often show early signs of aging. Regular use helps maintain smooth, youthful skin across the body.

Precautions and Tips

  • Patch Test First: Apply a small amount on your inner arm to ensure you are not allergic.
  • Use Sparingly: A few drops go a long way; overuse can leave the skin greasy.
  • Combine with Other Oils: Because castor oil is thick, mixing it with lighter oils improves absorption and feel.
  • Choose High-Quality Oil: Use pure, cold-pressed castor oil from reputable brands for the best results.

Read the article: Top Skin Care Tips as You Age

Conclusion

Castor oil is a natural, versatile ingredient that offers multiple benefits for anti-aging skincare. Its ability to deeply moisturize, promote collagen production, and protect against oxidative stress makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to maintain youthful, healthy skin.

While castor oil is not a magical solution that completely reverses aging, consistent use as part of a balanced skincare routine can reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin texture, and create a radiant, youthful glow. For anyone interested in natural anti-aging remedies, incorporating high-quality castor oil into your regimen is both safe and effective.

By sourcing natural ingredients such as castor oil from trusted suppliers, you can enjoy healthier, more resilient skin while avoiding harsh chemicals commonly found in conventional anti-aging products.

When to Hire a Long-Term Disability Lawyer: Key Signs

By
SM
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Navigating the world of long-term disability (LTD) claims can be complex and emotionally draining. While many individuals are able to manage their claims independently, there are situations where hiring a long-term disability lawyer can make a significant difference. Understanding when to seek legal assistance is crucial to protecting your rights, ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve, and avoiding these costly mistakes that may jeopardize your claim.

Understanding the Long-Term Disability Claims

Long-term disability insurance will provide financial protection for individuals who cannot work due to injury or serious illness. These policies, whether offered through an employer or purchased privately, are designed to replace a portion of your income during extended periods of disability.

Despite the intent of these policies, insurance companies often scrutinize claims closely, requiring extensive documentation, medical evidence, and sometimes even independent medical examinations. Many claims are delayed, reduced, or denied entirely due to missing paperwork, procedural errors, or ambiguous policy language. This is where a long-term disability lawyer can become invaluable.

Key Signs You Should Hire a Long-Term Disability Lawyer

1. Your Claim Has Been Denied

A denial is perhaps the most obvious reason to contact a long-term disability lawyer. Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, including insufficient medical documentation, alleged inconsistencies in your application, or questions about your ability to perform work duties.

A disability lawyer specializes in analyzing denial letters, identifying weaknesses in the insurance company’s reasoning, and helping you gather the necessary evidence to strengthen your appeal. In many cases, a lawyer’s involvement can turn a denial into an approval, ensuring you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

2. You Are Facing a Complex Medical Condition

Some disabilities are straightforward, while others involve chronic or complex medical conditions. When your condition is difficult to diagnose, fluctuates over time, or requires specialized medical knowledge, having a lawyer can help you navigate the complexities.

Lawyers can coordinate with medical professionals to ensure your records clearly document your limitations. They also know how to present evidence to meet the insurer’s standards, avoiding common pitfalls that could delay or jeopardize your claim.

3. The Insurance Company Is Delaying Your Claim

Even approved claims can become stressful when insurance companies delay payments. Sometimes, insurers request repeated medical documentation or prolong reviews unnecessarily.

A long-term disability lawyer can advocate on your behalf, enforcing deadlines, and communicating with the insurance company to prevent further delays. Their knowledge of policy terms and legal obligations ensures that insurers adhere to the rules and timelines mandated by law.

4. You Are Unsure About Your Rights or Policy Terms

Disability policies are often filled with legal jargon that can be confusing to someone without legal expertise. Understanding your rights, the definition of “disability,” and what benefits you are eligible for is crucial.

A long-term disability lawyer can interpret your policy, explain your entitlements, and guide you through the claims process. This helps prevent mistakes that could cost you benefits, such as missing filing deadlines or failing to provide the required documentation.

5. You Are Being Pressured to Settle Quickly

Insurance companies may offer a settlement early in the process, sometimes before you fully understand the long-term implications. Accepting a settlement without legal guidance could result in receiving less than what you are owed or forfeiting future benefits.

A lawyer can review any settlement offers, negotiate for a fair amount, and ensure that your rights are protected. They can also advise whether it is in your best interest to appeal a denial rather than accept a low settlement.

6. You Need Help With Appeals

If your claim has been denied, the appeals process can be daunting. Insurance companies have strict timelines and requirements for submitting appeals, and failing to meet them could result in you losing all your rights to benefits.

Long-term disability lawyers are experienced in filing appeals, gathering evidence, and presenting compelling arguments. They understand what the insurer looks for and can anticipate potential challenges, increasing your chances of success.

Conclusion

Filing a long-term disability claim is often a complex and stressful process. While not every situation requires legal representation, certain signs clearly indicate that hiring a long-term disability lawyer could significantly improve your chances of receiving all of the benefits you need.

If your claim has been denied, is delayed, involves complex medical conditions, or you are unsure about your policy terms, seeking legal advice can protect your financial security and peace of mind. Ultimately, having a knowledgeable lawyer by your side ensures that you are not navigating the challenges of long-term disability alone.

Remember, your health and financial well-being are too important to leave to chance. Professional legal guidance can make a substantial difference in achieving a more favorable outcome.

Which Tyre Factors Affect Driving Safety?

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

Driving safety depends on many vehicle components, but tyres play a unique and critical role. As the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road, tyres directly influence braking distance, steering control, traction, and overall stability. Choosing the right tyres and maintaining them properly can significantly reduce accident risk in both everyday driving and challenging road conditions. Even the most advanced safety technologies—such as ABS, traction control, and electronic stability systems—can only function effectively when tyres maintain adequate grip on the road surface. Without proper tyre performance, these systems cannot compensate for poor traction or worn rubber, which means tyre condition directly determines how much safety margin a driver truly has in emergency situations.

Tyre Type and Seasonal Performance

Selecting the correct tyre type is essential for maintaining grip and vehicle control. Tyres are manufactured with different rubber compounds designed to perform within specific temperature ranges. In cold weather, summer or all-season tyres may harden, leading to reduced traction. This is why winter tyres designed with softer compounds and deeper tread patterns that improve braking and stability on snow, ice, and wet surfaces. Using season-appropriate tyres enhances safety and driving confidence during colder months.

In simple terms, summer tyres deliver shorter braking distances and sharper handling in warm conditions, while winter tyres provide superior traction and stability when temperatures drop below about 7°C. Using summer tyres in winter can significantly increase stopping distances on cold or icy roads, whereas winter tyres used in hot weather may wear faster and reduce steering precision. Choosing the correct seasonal tyre is therefore not just about performance but about maintaining consistent safety throughout the year.

Similarly, summer tyres are engineered to remain firm at higher temperatures, providing superior handling, shorter braking distances, and improved fuel efficiency on dry and wet roads during warm seasons. Drivers in regions with significant seasonal variation benefit greatly from switching tyres as conditions change rather than relying on a single tyre type year-round.

Correct Tyre Size and Vehicle Stability

Tyre size has a direct impact on how a vehicle handles and responds on the road. Manufacturers specify tyre dimensions to ensure optimal balance, steering precision, and braking efficiency. A widely used option such as 205 55 r16 tyre provides a balanced driving experience by combining comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliable road grip.

Tyre size markings may look complex, but each number has a specific meaning. For example, in 205/55 R16, “205” indicates the tyre width in millimetres, “55” represents the aspect ratio (the sidewall height as a percentage of the width), “R” stands for radial construction, and “16” refers to the wheel diameter in inches. Understanding these measurements helps drivers choose compatible tyres that preserve vehicle handling, ride comfort, and safety features.

Installing incorrect tyre sizes can affect suspension geometry, reduce stability, and compromise electronic safety systems. Oversized tyres may cause rubbing against wheel arches, increase fuel consumption, and place additional stress on suspension components, while undersized tyres can lead to inaccurate speedometer readings, reduced load-carrying capacity, and diminished high-speed stability. For this reason, following manufacturer recommendations is essential for preserving both safety and mechanical integrity over the long term.

Load Index and Speed Rating

Every tyre carries markings that indicate its load index (how much weight it can safely support) and speed rating (the maximum speed it can sustain safely). Using tyres with ratings lower than the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements can increase the risk of overheating, structural failure, or blowouts—especially when the vehicle is fully loaded or driven at highway speeds. Selecting tyres that meet or exceed recommended ratings ensures the tyre structure can handle real-world driving stresses, including passengers, cargo, and long-distance travel.

Tread Depth and Road Grip

Tread depth is a crucial safety factor, particularly in wet conditions. Adequate tread allows tyres to channel water away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. As tread wears down, braking distances increase and grip decreases. Regular inspection and timely replacement ensure consistent performance and improved safety on both dry and wet roads. Most safety experts recommend replacing tyres before they reach the legal minimum tread depth, especially for drivers who frequently encounter rain or high-speed highway conditions. Uneven tread wear can also signal alignment or suspension issues that should be addressed promptly.

Tyre Pressure and Braking Performance

Maintaining correct tyre pressure is vital for safe driving. Under-inflated tyres reduce steering accuracy and increase stopping distances, while over-inflated tyres decrease traction and road contact. Keeping tyre pressure at manufacturer-recommended levels helps maintain predictable handling and efficient braking. Proper pressure also prevents excessive heat buildup inside the tyre, which can lead to premature wear or even blowouts during long journeys. Checking tyre pressure regularly, especially before extended trips or significant temperature changes, helps ensure consistent safety and performance.

Tyre Profile and Driving Dynamics

Tyre width and profile also influence safety, especially at higher speeds. Wider, lower-profile options such a 225 45 r17 tyre improve cornering stability and steering response. Choosing the right profile based on driving habits and road conditions ensures better control without sacrificing comfort. However, lower-profile tyres typically provide less cushioning against road imperfections, which may increase the risk of wheel damage on potholes or rough surfaces. Drivers should balance performance benefits with everyday practicality when selecting tyre profiles.

Driving safety is closely linked to tyre selection and maintenance. By choosing the correct tyre type, size, tread depth, and pressure, drivers can significantly improve vehicle control, reduce braking distances, and ensure safer journeys in all conditions. Regular inspections, timely replacements, and awareness of how tyres interact with changing weather and road surfaces form the foundation of responsible vehicle ownership and long-term driving safety.

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