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What went down in the Great American Getaway 400 at Pocono

By
SM Staff
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Photo by Kirk Schroll for Speedwaymedia.com

Ryan Blaney returned to victory lane Sunday at Pocono Raceway in the Great American Getaway 400. This was Blaney’s second NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) win in the last five races this season and the 12th of his career. The 2023 NASCAR champion won the inaugural NCS race last month at Iowa Speedway, and the Penske No. 12 Ford team could win the championship again this season.

The win also marks Team Penske’s 97th series win and Ford’s 733rd all-time in NCS competition.

“I am super proud of the whole 12 team. The Wabash Ford Mustang was amazing. I appreciate Menards, Body Armour, the Wurth Group, Advance Auto Parts, DEX Imaging, and everyone that makes this possible. It is so cool to win here again. I won here seven years ago for my first Cup win. The crowd, you guys, were amazing. Thank you for being here all weekend.” Blaney said.

Race Notes

  • There were eight caution flags for 34 laps.
  • There were eight lead changes among eight drivers.
  • Blaney led the most laps with 41.
  • Martin Truex Jr. won stage one.
  • Denny Hamlin won stage two.
  • The race lasted 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 59 seconds.
  • The margin of victory was 1.312 seconds.

What went down behind Blaney

Denny Hamlin started fourth, led 31 laps, won stage 2, and drove his No. 11 Toyota Camry XSE to second place finish, 1.3 seconds back. This was Hamlin’s eighth top-five of the season.

“Hats off to this whole Mavis Tires and Brakes team. Dave (Sorbaro), the CEO and 100 associates were here today, so we were proud to host them. Would’ve loved to give them a victory, but second is close and at least, it’s good to get back on track. We’ve had some slides over the last month-and-a-half.” Hamlin said.

Alex Bowman and the No. 48 Ally Best Friends Camaro ZL1 team finished third. Bowman ran in the top-10 throughout most of the race most of the race and collected points in both stages. Bowman has six top-fives and 12 top-10s this season.

“Proud of my No. 48 Ally Best Friends Chevy team. It was a good run; we just needed a little bit more to get to the No. 12 (Ryan Blaney). Once I abused the right-rear tire for so long, it made Denny’s (Hamlin) job pretty easy to get around me. But yeah, it was a solid third-place day.” Bowman said.

William Byron finished fourth, and Joey Logano finished fifth.

“We were just kind of okay. Definitely had a decent No. 24 Raptor High Heat Chevy. Really good execution and everyone did a good job of just keeping their heads in it.” Bryon said. “Not every situation went our way with the strategy, but we were able to have decent restarts, especially at the end there, and just kind of maintained it to the end. Definitely a lot of things to dissect, but really proud of the team and just good to get a top-five, for sure.”

“Overall, a top five, you have to be somewhat happy with that. We had speed there toward the end of the race and I think we could have run in the top two. I don’t know if we could have been better than Ryan or not, but it just took us too long to get the balance right.” Logano said.

RFK Racing had a great day. Brad Keselowski finished seventh, Chris Buescher finished 11th, and both drivers led a series of laps.

It was another bad day for Kyle Busch. An on-track incident ended the day early for Busch, resulting in a 32nd finish.

“We ended up getting hit from behind and it ended our day early. That’s just racing these days and it’s what happens. I just want to give thanks to all of our partners.” Busch said. “It’s just unfortunate circumstances. Thank you to Rowdy Nation and all the fans for their continued support. We’ll go back to work and get ready for Indianapolis.”

What’s Next

The NCS heads to Indianapolis Motor Speedway with the 30th running of the Brickyard 400 on Sunday, July 21, at 2:30 p.m. ET. Live coverage can be found on NBC and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Kyle Busch to make 700th Cup career start at Indianapolis

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Mike Biskupski for SpeedwayMedia.com.

As the NASCAR Cup Series makes a historic return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s oval-shaped circuit for the Brickyard 400 after three years of competing on the circuit’s road-course layout, Kyle Busch is set to achieve a milestone start of his own. By competing in this weekend’s Brickyard 400, the driver of the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will reach 700 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

A native of Las Vegas, Nevada, Busch made his inaugural presence in the Cup Series at his home track, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, in March 2004. By then, he had made seven career starts in the Craftsman Truck Series and 10 in the Xfinity Series as he was also contending in the latter series for Hendrick Motorsports. Driving the No. 84 Chevrolet for HMS, Busch started 18th and finished 41st in his Cup debut after retiring early following an early incident. He made five additional Cup starts throughout the 2004 season and achieved a season-best 24th-place run at Auto Club Speedway in September.

The following season, Busch graduated to a full-time Cup role in the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, where he replaced two-time series champion Terry Labonte as Labonte retired from full-time competition. After finishing 38th in his first Daytona 500 career start at Daytona International Speedway, Busch notched his first Cup career pole position at Auto Club in February, where he ended up in 23rd place, before he recorded a runner-up finish behind teammate Jimmie Johnson and in front of older brother, Kurt Busch, at Las Vegas in March. Throughout his next 21 starts, Kyle Busch recorded a total of seven top-10 results, including another runner-up result at Dover Motor Speedway in June. Then at Auto Club in September, he capitalized on a two-lap shootout to score his first Cup career win in his 31st series start and become the youngest winner in series’ history at age 20 years, four months and two days. Despite missing the 2005 Cup Playoffs, Busch would notch another runner-up result at Dover in September before capturing his second Cup career victory at Phoenix Raceway in November following a late duel against Greg Biffle. With a 20th-place finish in the final standings to coincide with nine top-five results, 13 top-10 results 362 laps led and an average-finishing result of 21.0, Busch captured the 2005 Cup Rookie-of-the-Year title.

Busch would remain as the driver of the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet for the following two Cup seasons. During the two-year span, he claimed one victory per season and made the Playoffs during both seasons. In 2006, he won at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in July amid a two-lap shootout and recorded one pole, 10 top-five results, 18 top-10 results, 571 laps led and an average-finishing result of 15.5 before settling in 10th place in the final standings. The following season, he fended off a hard-charging Jeff Burton to win at Bristol Motor Speedway in March and record the first victory for the Car of Tomorrow stock car as he also recorded the 200th NASCAR national touring series victory for Hendrick Motorsports and the 600th in the Cup circuit for Chevrolet. Busch would proceed to record 11 top-five results, 20 top-10 results, 637 laps led and an average-finishing result of 14.1 throughout the 2007 campaign before boosting to fifth place in the final standings. By then, he surpassed 100 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series.

In June 2007, Busch was announced of his departure from Hendrick Motorsports at season’s conclusion, where he would be replaced by Dale Earnhardt Jr. Two months later, he announced his move to Joe Gibbs Racing to pilot the No. 18 Toyota Camry for the 2008 Cup season. Throughout the 26 regular-season stretch, Busch’s move to JGR made both the driver and team a lethal combination for the competition that commenced with top-four finishes through the first three-scheduled events. Then at Atlanta Motor Speedway in March, the Las Vegas native led a race-high 173 laps en route to his first Cup victory of the season and first driving for JGR as he also recorded the first Cup Series win for the Toyota nameplate. Five races later, Busch rallied from losing a lap and nearly getting collected in an incident with Jamie McMurray to assume the lead with five laps remaining and retain the top spot prior to a multi-car wreck on the final lap to claim his second victory of the season at Talladega Superspeedway in May. Busch’s early hot streak extended throughout the regular-season stretch as he claimed victories at Darlington Raceway in May Dover Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway in June, Daytona, Chicagoland Speedway in July and at Watkins Glen International in August. To go along with a total of 17 top-10 results, Busch secured his spot into the 2008 Cup Playoffs as he also earned the top seed in his bid to win his first title. Throughout the Playoffs, however, Busch’s title hopes evaporated as he commenced the Playoffs with a 34th-place finish at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in September after plummeting from first place and being involved an early multi-car wreck followed by a last-place finish during the following event at Dover after his engine expired. Despite recording four top-10 results during the final eight events on the schedule, he could only climb his way up to 10th place in the final standings. Amid his early exit in the championship bid, Busch achieved a career-high eight victories, two poles, 17 top-five results, 21 top-10 results, 1,673 laps led and an average-finishing result of 12.5 in his first season driving for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Poised for another title bid in 2009, Busch commenced the season by finishing in 41st place in the 51st running of the Daytona 500 after being involved in a late multi-car wreck despite leading a race-high 88 laps. He would rally by finishing third at Auto Club before notching his first victory of the season at Las Vegas in an event where he rallied from starting at the rear of the field. Two races later, he won at Bristol for the second time in his career after leading a race-high 378 laps before collecting his third victory of the season at Richmond Raceway five races later in May, the latter victory making Busch the second competitor to win on a birthday date.

Busch would then endure a difficult summer stretch as he would only record three top-10 finishes in 13 events, results that eventually dropped him below the top-12 cutline to make the 2009 Playoffs. Despite claiming his fourth victory of the season at Bristol in August following a late battle with Mark Martin, Busch would end up 13th and fifth, respectively, during the final two regular-season events of the season, which resulted in him missing the Playoffs by eight points.

He would proceed to finish in the top 10 four times during the final 10 events on the schedule before settling in 13th place in the final standings. By then, Busch only earned half the total victories accumulated from the previous season (four) along with eight less top-five (nine) and top-10 (13) results as he capped off the season with an average-finishing result of 15.3 and 1,157 total laps led.

Busch would return to the Playoffs in 2010 as he claimed three victories throughout the regular-season stretch, starting at Richmond in May followed by Dover two races later and then at Bristol in August as part of his historic NASCAR top three national touring series sweep. Amid the three races where he was victorious, he racked up a total of 13 top-10 results. With four top-10 results recorded throughout the 2010 Cup Playoffs, Busch ended up in eighth place in the final standings as he also surpassed 200 Cup career starts. The following season, he would rack up four victories throughout the regular-season stretch (Bristol in March, Richmond in May, Kentucky Speedway in July and at Michigan International Speedway in August) along with 16 top-10 results. Then after recording only two top-10 results throughout the first seven Playoff events, including a strong runner-up result at Charlotte Motor Speedway in October, Busch was suspended from competing in the Cup Playoff event at Texas Motor Speedway in November following his actions during the Truck Series event at Texas two days earlier, where he intentionally wrecked Ron Hornaday Jr. under caution at full speed. Returning for the final two events on the schedule, where he finished 36th and 23rd, respectively, Busch ended up in 12th place in the final standings. With seven victories recorded throughout the two-year span, which accumulated his wins total to 23, he also achieved three poles, 24 top-five results, 36 top-10 results, 2,726 laps led and average-finishing results within the top 15.

The 2012 Cup Series season initially commenced with a hot start for Busch as he rallied from two near spins to edge reigning three-time champion Tony Stewart by 0.013 seconds to win the non-points Budweiser Shootout at Daytona in February. After recording three top-10 results during the first eight events on the schedule, Busch claimed his first points victory of the season at Richmond after muscling away from the field during a nine-lap shootout. Despite finishing in the top four during his next three starts, he would then finish in the top 10 only three additional times during the following 13 events as he was left battling within the cutline to make the Playoffs. Despite notching back-to-back sixth-place finishes at Bristol and Atlanta between August and September that kept him within the cutline, Busch ended up in 16th place during the regular-season finale at Richmond, which left him three points below the cutline and out of the Playoffs for the first time since 2009. With his championship hopes of the season evaporated, Busch concluded the 2012 campaign on a strong note by finishing in the top seven in eight of the remaining 10 events before settling in 13th place in the final standings.

In the early stages of the 2013 Cup Series season, Busch finished in the top five twice during the first four-scheduled events before capitalizing on a last-lap skirmish involving teammate Denny Hamlin and ex-teammate Joey Logano to claim his first victory at Auto Club in March and deliver the first Auto Club Speedway win for both Joe Gibbs Racing and Toyota. Two races later, Busch achieved his second victory of the season at Texas in April, which marked his 300th Cup career start as he joined Ned Jarrett, Rusty Wallace and Kasey Kahne as competitors to win on the milestone start. Despite recording eight top-10 results during his next 14 starts, Busch would record his third victory of the season at Watkins Glen in August following a late duel against Brad Keselowski before winning for the fourth time of the year at Atlanta in September, victories that enabled him to clinch his spot into the Playoffs. With a total of five top-five results and seven top-10 results recorded throughout the Playoffs, Busch settled in fourth place in the final standings. By then, he recorded three additional top fives (16) and two additional top 10s (22) compared to his previous season. Despite leading 209 less laps (1,227) compared to the previous season, Busch boosted his final average-finishing result from 13.3 to 12.7.

Like the 2013 season, Busch emerged victorious for the first time in 2014 at Auto Club, the fifth event on the schedule, amid a two-lap shootout that resulted with the driver of the No. 18 JGR Toyota navigating his way from fifth to first, which kept his winning streak in the Cup Series alive to 10 consecutive years. To go along with a total of nine top-10 results, including three runner-up results, throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, he made the Playoffs for a seventh time. Despite transferring from the Playoff’s Round of 16 to 12 amid three consecutive top-10 results followed by two top-five runs during the first two Round of 12 events, Busch’s title hopes came to a crashing end during the Round of 8 finale at Talladega in October after he was involved in a late multi-car wreck and could only salvage his way up to 40th place in the final running order, which prevented him from advancing past the Round of 12. Managing only a single top-five finish during the final four-scheduled events, Busch ended up in 10th place in the final standings for the fourth time of his career and with an average-finishing result of 17.6 amid a total of 15 top-10 results.

The 2015 season was a breakthrough year for Busch that commenced with the driver potentially having his racing career ending following a harrowing accident during the Xfinity Series’ season-opening event at Daytona in February that resulted with the driver hitting head-on into a concrete wall and suffering both a massive compound fracture in his right leg and a minor fracture to his left foot. With the injuries causing Busch to miss the first 11 events on the schedule, he made his return at Charlotte Motor Speedway for the All-Star Race in May, where he ended up sixth. Needing at least one victory and enough garnered points to remain above the top-30 cutline in the standings that would guarantee him in Playoff contention as part of his medical waiver by NASCAR, Busch finished no higher than ninth in his first four races back in contention before accomplishing his first feat: a victory that occurred at Sonoma in June, which marked his 30th victory in the Cup Series and extended his winning streak to 11 seasons.

Despite finishing 17th during the next event at Daytona, Busch notched three consecutive victories at Kentucky, New Hampshire and Indianapolis Motor Speedway in July. Managing four top-10 results, including two runner-up results, throughout the final six regular-season events in 2015, Busch was able to climb his way inside the top-30 cutline and make the Playoffs. Utilizing consistency throughout the Playoffs in the form of five top-five results and six top-10 results, he proceeded to transfer from the Round of 16 into the Championship 4 round at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November. Then during the finale, Busch capitalized on a seven-lap restart to overtake Keselowski and fend off title rival Kevin Harvick to win both the finale and his first Cup Series championship. With the title occurring in his 11th season in competition, Busch became the 31st different competitor to win a championship in NASCAR’s premier series as he also delivered the first Cup title for Toyota and the fourth for Joe Gibbs Racing. In total, he accumulated five victories, one pole, 12 top-five results, 16 top-10 results, 736 laps led and an average-finishing result of 10.8 in 25 starts, which made him the first competitor to win a championship despite not competing in every scheduled event since Richard Petty made the last accomplishment in 1971.

Commencing the 2016 Cup season as the reigning champion, Busch recorded four top-five finishes during the first five-scheduled events before notching back-to-back victories at Martinsville Speedway and at Texas in April. Four races later, he notched his third Cup victory of the season at Kansas Speedway in May before winning at Indianapolis for a second consecutive season nine races later. To coincide with 16 top-10 results throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, Busch made the Playoffs for a ninth time. Implementing consistency throughout the Playoffs, he finished in the top eight in eight of the first nine Playoff events, which enabled him to transfer from the Round of 16 and back into the Championship 4 round for a second consecutive season. During the finale, however, Busch, who made a late pit stop, could only climb his way up to sixth place on the track, which resulted in him settling in third place in the final standings. Despite falling two spots short of defending his title, Busch concluded the 2016 campaign on a strong note with four victories, two poles, 17 top-five results, 25 top-10 results, 1,379 laps led and an average-finishing result of 11.5. By then, he also surpassed 400 Cup career starts.

The following two Cup seasons would feature Busch making competitive championship runs as he notched multiple victories and transferred all the way to the Championship 4 round. In 2017, Busch endured the first 20-scheduled events winless before notching his first victory at Pocono Raceway in July. In the midst of the winless streak, he achieved his first All-Star Race win at Charlotte in May, which marked his 12th attempt of winning the event’s million dollar prize. Busch would proceed to win at Bristol in August as part of his second triple series weekend sweep before winning the following Playoff events at New Hampshire, Dover and Martinsville. During the finale, however, Busch ended up in the runner-up spot both on the track and in the final standings to Martin Truex Jr. In 2018, Busch achieved a career-high eight victories, which marked his second time achieving the feat since 2008. His victories included winning three consecutive races at Texas, Bristol and Richmond in April before emerging triumphant for the first time at Charlotte Motor Speedway during the Coca-Cola 600 in May. He would then bump and overtake Kyle Larson amid a last-lap skirmish to win at Chicagoland in early July before muscling away from teammate Daniel Suarez during a two-lap shootout to win at Pocono in late July.

Once the Playoffs commenced, Busch, who claimed the 2018 Cup Series regular-season title, would win at Richmond during the Round of 16 and at Phoenix during the Round of 8 finale in November, to which by then, he had made the Championship 4 round for a fourth consecutive season. Ultimately, he would end up in fourth place both during the finale at Homestead and in the final points standings in 2018. During the two-year span, Busch notched 13 victories, bringing his wins total to 51. He also recorded a total of 36 top-five results, 50 top-10 results, 12 poles, with 20,285 laps led and average-finishing results within the top 11, with the 2018 season generating career-high stats in top fives (22), top 10s (28) and average-finishing result (8.3) while the 2017 season generated the most poles (eight) and laps led (2,023) in a season.

For the 2019 season, which marked his 12th season driving for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Cup Series, Busch commenced the season by finishing in the runner-up spot during the 61st running of the Daytona 500 before finishing sixth at Atlanta, which marked his 500th Cup career start. Two races later, he secured his first victory of the season at Phoenix in March and backed it up with a dominant win at Auto Club, where he achieved his 200th NASCAR national touring series victory. As Busch proceeded to win at Bristol in April before winning at Pocono in June, he would accumulate a total of 21 top-10 results throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch before qualifying for his 12th appearance in the Playoffs and winning his second consecutive regular-season title. Then after finishing in the top 10 five times throughout the Playoffs that enabled him to transfer from the Round of 16 into the Championship 4 for a fifth consecutive time, Busch led a race-high 120 laps en route to his second Cup Series championship during the finale at Homestead.

With his accomplishment, Busch became the 16th different competitor to achieve multiple Cup Series titles as he also delivered the fifth championship to Joe Gibbs Racing and the third for Toyota. Overall, Busch capped off his second championship season with five victories, one pole, 17 top-five results, 27 top-10 results, 1,582 laps led and an average-finishing result of 8.9.

Compared to the 2019 season, the 2020 Cup Series season generated a difficult season for Busch both during the regular-season stretch and throughout the Playoffs that prevented him from contending for his third series title. Despite recording 11 top-five results and 13 top-10 results throughout the regular-season stretch that enabled him to make the 2020 Cup Playoffs, Busch finished no lower than sixth throughout the Round of 16 before transferring into the Round of 12. Then amid respective finishes of sixth, 27th and 30th throughout the Round of 12, he was eliminated from title contention. Busch quickly rallied during the second Round of 8 event by notching his first elusive Cup victory of the season at Texas in October following a late battle against Martin Truex Jr. and having enough fuel to snatch the victory, which extended his winning streak to 16 consecutive seasons. Managing respective finishes of ninth and 11th during the final two events on the schedule, Busch settled in eighth place in the final standings.

In 2021, Busch notched two victories that occurred during the regular-season stretch: the first at Kansas in May as he won on his birthday for a second time and the second at Pocono in July after overtaking teammate Denny Hamlin prior to the final lap while running on fumes with a low gas tank. Amid the victories, he also won the non-points Busch Clash at Daytona in February following a last-lap skirmish involving the reigning champion Chase Elliott and Ryan Blaney. The pair of victories along with 16 top-10 results throughout the regular-season stretch allowed Busch to make the Playoffs for a 14th season, which he would record five top-10 runs throughout the Playoffs and transferred past the Rounds of 16 and 12 before coming up three points short of transferring into the Championship 4 round, which resulted with the two-time champion settling in ninth place in the final points standings. By then, Busch had recorded a total of 14 top-five results, 22 top-10 results, 334 laps led, an average-finishing result of 12.8 and surpassed 600 Cup career starts.

For the 2022 season, Busch’s lone victory of the season occurred during the Bristol Motor Speedway Dirt Course in April, where he capitalized on a final lap incident involving Tyler Reddick and Chase Briscoe to beat Reddick by 0.330 seconds. The victory not only marked Busch’s 60th in NASCAR’s premier series, but it also marked his 18th consecutive season of winning at least one event in a Cup season, a record feat that was also made by Richard Petty. Despite recording a total of 13 top-10 results, including his Bristol Dirt victory, throughout the regular-season stretch that enabled him to make the Playoffs, Busch was eliminated from title contention following respective finishes of 30th, 26th and 34th throughout the Round of 16. Managing four top-10 results throughout the final seven events on the schedule, Busch ended up in 13th place in the final standings in a season where he accumulated a total of 17 top-10 results, 627 laps led and an average-finishing result of 16.7.

In September 2022, Busch announced his move to Richard Childress Racing to pilot the No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for the 2023 Cup season, where he replaced the departing Tyler Reddick. The move came amid a termination to Busch’s 15-year partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing due to longtime sponsor Mars, Incorporated departing NASCAR following the 2022 season and JGR unable to secure a primary sponsorship for Busch prior to the 2023 season. After ending up in 19th place during the 65th running of the Daytona 500 while being collected in a final lap, multi-car wreck, Busch achieved his first victory of the season and his first driving for RCR at Auto Club in February, which made him the new holder of the longest winning streak in Cup Series history at 19 consecutive seasons. Eight races later, he dodged a final lap, multi-car wreck to notch his second victory of the season at Talladega in April before grabbing his third Cup win at World Wide Technology Raceway in June, where he led a race-high 121 laps. The three regular-season victories along with a total of 14 top-10 results enabled Busch to make his 16th entrance into the Playoffs. Despite transferring into the Round of 12 amid no finishes lower than 20th throughout the Round of 16, Busch was unable to transfer into the Round of 8 amid respective finishes of 34th, 25th and third throughout the Round of 12. Finishing as high as third for the final four events on the schedule, he concluded his first campaign with RCR in 14th place in the final standings. By then, he had also accumulated a total of 17 top-10 results, 241 laps led and an average-finishing result of 15.0.

This season, Busch has started on pole position once, which occurred at Dover in late April and has finished in the top 10 six times through 21-scheduled events, with his best result being a third-place run at Atlanta in February. With his current average-finishing result being a 19.4, Busch is currently ranked in 18th place in the 2024 regular-season standings and trails the top-16 cutline to make the 2024 Playoffs by 102 points as he also strives to collect his first victory of the 2024 season that would extend his record-setting wins of consecutive seasons to 20.

Through 699 previous Cup starts, Busch has achieved two championships, 63 victories, 34 poles, 248 top-five results, 378 top-10 results, 19,280 laps led and an average finishing result of 14.0. He is set to become the 20th competitor overall to reach 700 career starts in NASCAR’s premier series. Should he win this weekend’s Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis, Busch would become the first competitor to win in a 700th Cup start.

Kyle Busch is scheduled to make his 700th Cup Series career start at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the return of the Brickyard 400 on Sunday, July 21. The event’s broadcast time is slated to commence at 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC.

Matt Swiderski to call 100th Cup event as crew chief at Indianapolis

By
Andrew Kim
-
Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

In his fourth season as a crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series and first paired with Daniel Suarez and Trackhouse Racing, Matt Swiderski is primed to reach a milestone feat. By participating in this weekend’s return of the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Swiderski will call his 100th career event as a crew chief in NASCAR’s premier series.

Swiderski, a Chicago native who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at Kettering University and a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University, spent the early portions of his career as a data acquisition and race engineer for Richard Childress Racing across the Xfinity and Cup Series divisions before becoming a loads engineer for SpaceX in 2012. Returning to NASCAR eight months later and reuniting with Richard Childress Racing, where he became a chief race engineer before working his way up to being the head of vehicle performance.

In 2017, Swiderski made his inaugural presence as a crew chief in the Xfinity Series, where he worked atop the pit box of RCR’s No. 3 Chevrolet team piloted between Ty Dillon, Scott Lagasse Jr. and Brian Scott throughout the season, with the entry recording 18 top-10 results and finishing in 11th place in the owner’s standings. He then spent the following three seasons as a part-time Xfinity crew chief for Team Penske, where he worked with Ryan Blaney, Austin Cindric, Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano and Paul Menard, before working as Ty Dillon’s crew chief for two events in 2021.

During the 2021 season, Swiderski made his inaugural presence as a crew chief in the Cup Series as he joined forces with Kaulig Racing to lead the team’s No. 16 Chevrolet entry on a part-time basis that was split between AJ Allmendinger, Justin Haley and Kaz Grala.

After leading the No. 16 team to three top-seven results during the entry’s first five starts between February and June, Swiderski achieved his first NASCAR career victory as a crew chief during the Cup Series’ inaugural event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course in August after Allmendinger capitalized on an overtime shootout to achieve his second Cup career win and the first for Kaulig Racing in NASCAR’s premier series. The No. 16 Kaulig entry would end up finishing no higher than 20th in its final three starts between mid-August to October.

The following season, Kaulig Racing’s No. 16 entry led by Swiderski became a full-time Cup Series entry as Allmendinger, Noah Gragson and Daniel Hemric took turns splitting the entry. During the season, Swiderski was suspended for four events throughout May, including the non-points All-Star Race, due to a loose wheel that came unattached at Dover Motor Speedway in early May. In the remaining 33 points-paying events, Swiderski led the No. 16 entry to a total of three top-five results and nine top-10 results, including a season-best runner-up result at Watkins Glen International in August, before the team settled in 26th place in the final owner’s standings.

In 2023, Swiderski was paired with Allmendinger on a full-time basis as Allmendinger became a full-time competitor of Kaulig’s No. 16 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the Cup Series. Despite commencing the season with a sixth-place result during the 65th running of the Daytona 500, the duo would proceed to finish in the top five twice and rack up two additional top-10 results throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, but they fell short of making the 2023 Cup Series Playoffs.

Then after finishing no higher than 13th during the first five Playoff events, Swiderski and Allmendinger made triumphant returns to Victory Lane at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course after Allmendinger led a race-high 46 of 109 laps en route to his third Cup career win and the second for Kaulig Racing. Managing a single top-five finish during the final four events on the schedule, Allmendinger settled in 21st place in the final driver’s standings.

In early January 2024, Kaulig Racing and Trackhouse Racing engaged in a crew chief swap that resulted in Swiderski replacing Travis Mack to serve as the crew chief for Daniel Suarez and the No. 99 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 team while Mack took over Swiderski’s role as crew chief for Kaulig’s No. 16 Cup team. After ending up in 34th place due to crashing out of the 66th running of the Daytona 500, the new duo of Swiderski and Suarez emerged victorious during the following event at Atlanta Motor Speedway when Suarez edged the reigning champion Ryan Blaney and two-time champion Kyle Busch in a three-wide finish to snap a 57-race winless drought and record both a second Cup victory for himself and the third for Swiderski.

Despite recording only three top-10 runs through 21 scheduled events of the 2024 season, Swiderski and Suarez, both of whom are in 17th place in the regular-season standings, are currently guaranteed a spot into the Playoffs based on the Atlanta victory.

Through 99 previous Cup events, Swiderski has achieved three victories, 11 top-five results and 23 top-10 results while working with six different competitors.

Matt Swiderski is scheduled to call his 100th Cup Series event as a crew chief at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the return of the Brickyard 400. The event is scheduled to occur on Sunday, July 21, and air at 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC.

Chris Gayle to call 200th Cup event as crew chief at Indianapolis

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images.

In his sixth full-time campaign as a crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series, Chris Gayle, who works as a crew chief for Ty Gibbs and the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota Camry XSE team, is within reach of achieving a milestone feat. By participating in this weekend’s return of the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Gayle will call his 200th event as a crew chief in NASCAR’s premier series.

A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, and a graduate of the University of North Carolina in Charlotte with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Gayle made his inaugural presence as a Cup Series crew chief at Kansas Speedway in April 2013, where he was atop the pit box of the No. 81 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota Camry team piloted by veteran Elliott Sadler. By then, he had recently served as a senior engineer for Kyle Busch and was serving as Sadler’s full-time crew chief in the Xfinity Series. In Gayle’s first event as a Cup crew chief, Sadler, who started 24th, finished 40th after being eliminated in an early accident.

Four years later, Gayle was named a full-time Cup Series crew chief of the No. 77 Furniture Row Racing Toyota Camry entry piloted by Erik Jones, who was set to compete in the series for the first time following a four-win season during the previous Xfinity season. Despite being suspended for two races in August due to a post-race infraction at Pocono Raceway in July, Gayle led Jones to his first Cup career pole at Bristol Motor Speedway in August, where he went on to finish a career-best second place following a late duel against Kyle Busch. Despite earning 11 top-10 results throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, the duo did not make the 2017 Cup Playoffs. Nonetheless, they went on to post two top-10 results during the 10-race Playoff stretch before finishing in 19th place in the final standings. By then, Jones captured the 2017 Cup Rookie-of-the-Year title and became the first competitor to achieve a rookie title across NASCAR’s top three premier series (Truck, Xfinity and Cup divisions).

In 2018, Gayle and Jones moved back to Joe Gibbs Racing and took over the No. 20 Toyota Camry team for the upcoming Cup season. Following a consistent start to the season that was highlighted by six top-10 results during the first 16-scheduled events, Gayle and Jones earned their first career victory in the Cup Series at Daytona International Speedway in July after Jones overtook former teammate Martin Truex Jr. on the final lap to win. After notching six additional top-10 results during the following eight events, the duo qualified for the 2018 Cup Playoffs. Their title hopes, however, came to an early end following respective finishes of 40th, 11th and 30th during the Round of 16. Despite rallying to finish in the top 10 four times during the final seven events, Gayle and Jones capped off the season in 15th place in the final standings.

Remaining as Jones’ crew chief in 2019, Gayle led the No. 20 team to a strong third-place result during the 61st running of the Daytona 500. After enduring an up-and-down regular-season stretch highlighted with eight top-five results and 12 top-10 results during the first 24 regular-season events, Gayle and Jones achieved their first elusive victory of the season in the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway in September, where Jones held off teammate Kyle Busch to win in his 100th Cup career start and notch the second career victory for himself and Gayle. The Southern 500 victory was more than enough for the duo and the No. 20 team to clinch a Playoff spot for a second consecutive season. Following another early exit from the Playoffs after posting three consecutive results outside the top 30 during the Round of 16, Gayle and Jones went on to finish 16th in the final standings.

Gayle and Jones commenced the 2020 season on a high note by winning the Busch Clash at Daytona in February, where Jones rallied from being involved in three multi-car wrecks to nurse his damaged car to the win with drafting help from teammate Denny Hamlin. The rest of the season, however, ended up being a struggle for the duo as they recorded seven top-10 results during the regular season and failed to make the Playoffs. In addition, Gayle served a one-race suspension during the second of a Darlington Raceway doubleheader feature in May after Jones’ No. 20 Toyota had two unsecured lugnuts during the first Darlington feature. Five finishes in the top 10 during the 10-week Playoff stretch, however, were enough for Gayle and Jones to end up in 17th place in the final standings, the highest-finishing team in the standings to not make the Playoffs.

Following the 2020 season, Gayle and Jones were replaced by Adam Stevens and Christopher Bell, respectively, for the 2021 season. While Jones moved on to Richard Petty Motorsports, Gayle remained at JGR and scaled back as a full-time Xfinity Series crew chief for the team’s No. 54 Toyota Supra entry piloted by a multitude of competitors. Between 2021 and 2022, Gayle earned 17 Xfinity victories between Christopher Bell, Kyle Busch, Ty Gibbs and John Hunter Nemechek. He also won the 2022 Xfinity Series championship with Ty Gibbs in a season where the duo notched seven victories, including the season finale to claim the fourth Xfinity title for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Nearly a week and a half after winning the previous season’s Xfinity championship, Gayle was promoted back to the Cup Series to serve as Gibbs’ crew chief in 2023, with Gibbs retaining the No. 54 and embarking in his first full-time campaign in NASCAR’s premier series. The duo would rally by finishing no higher than 16th during the first four-scheduled events before notching four consecutive top-10 finishes in their next four events. Gayle and Gibbs would proceed to collect two top-five results and another top-10 result throughout the remaining 18 regular-season events on the schedule, but they would miss the cutline to the 2023 Cup Series Playoffs. Nonetheless, they proceeded to record two top-five runs during the final 10-scheduled events before ending up in 18th place in the final driver’s standings. As a result, Gibbs claimed the 2023 Cup Series Rookie-of-the-Year title, which marked the second time and the first since being paired with Erik Jones in 2017 where Gayle navigated a competitor to a Cup rookie title.

Through 199 previous Cup events, Gayle has achieved two victories, four poles, 40 top-five results and 78 top-10 results while working with three different competitors. He and Ty Gibbs are currently ranked in 11th place in the 2024 regular-season standings on the strength of five top-five results, nine top-10 results and two poles, including this past weekend at Pocono Raceway, through 21-scheduled events. In addition, they are 40 points above the top-16 cutline to make this year’s Playoffs with five regular-season events remaining on the schedule.

Chris Gayle is scheduled to call his 200th Cup Series event as a crew chief at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the return of the Brickyard 400. The event is scheduled to occur on Sunday, July 21, and air at 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC.

Tips To Enhance The Value And Performance of Your Truck

By
SM
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Photo by Kool C on Unsplash

If you want to improve the performance and boost your truck’s value, it is essential to be careful about your steps. You will come across several options, but it will only waste your money and add nothing of value. Hence, remember to invest your time and money carefully. Here are a few tips to help you with the same.

Be careful about where you spend 

Different people will be drawn to various things. Some would want a high-priced stereo system and a top-notch navigation, and others would like to invest in safety equipment. Remember that putting expensive stuff in the truck will not increase its value. By adding a part costing $500 or more, you will not see the truck’s value improve by $500. You will only be faced with disappointment. Hence, to add value, be careful about the products you pick. Simple add-ons can also boost the value in no time. More money does not mean more value.

Ensure regular maintenance and check-ups 

No matter the type of vehicle you own, regular maintenance is of utmost importance. You will need to do all the maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer including changing the air filter, changing the oil, or checking the tire pressure. To enjoy the best performance, you need to use the right items. Always park it in a shade or garage and protect the vehicle from corrosion or rust using a spray on bedliner for trucks. This will ensure that the vehicle is in the best condition. It will not only save you money on constant repairs but will also improve the truck’s value.

Update its computer system

You can boost the diesel performance by updating the computer system of the truck. This way, you can take advantage of the latest technology and get more power from the engine. All new trucks come with systems that are more powerful than the older models. It should not be overlooked as it can be what you need to take the truck’s performance to a new level. 

Watch the mileage 

If you plan to sell your truck, the resale value will depend on the mileage. The average mileage is close to 13,500 miles annually, and if you drive more than that, it might disappoint the buyers. Hence, if you intend to put the truck for sale in a few months, keep your traveling at a minimum. 

Keep the engine clean

To see an improvement in the truck’s performance, you must keep the engine clean. With time, the engine starts gathering grime and dirt, and it can impact its ability to run properly. Hence, make it a point to clean the engine regularly by using a pressure washer. Every few months, you can take it to a professional for cleaning.  

Test the tires

Another way to boost the truck’s performance is to inspect the tires. Similar to the engine, the tires will see wear and tear and could lose their grip. It could lead to many issues like getting fewer miles for each gallon of diesel. Hence, keep an eye on the tires and check the pressure regularly. It will also help improve road safety, as worn tires can cause accidents. 

Change the oil regularly

To boost the performance of your truck, you need to change the oil regularly. With time, oil will start to break down and will become less effective which is why you need to keep changing it. Always use high-quality oil that is designed for your truck’s engine. It will improve the performance and help you get the most out of the amount you spend on oil. If you use low-quality oil, you will spend more money on replacing it. 

Invest in a turbocharger

Consider installing a turbocharger to boost the performance of your truck. They enhance the power that the engine produces and work by forcing more air into the engine. Thus, improving its efficiency. 

Maintain the appearance 

Whether you want to sell the truck or not, maintenance is everything. If the vehicle is not cared for, it will impact its performance and overall value. Take time to clean the truck regularly, and if you live in a cold environment, wash the truck’s body often. It will not take too long but will make a big difference to the paint and appearance. Remember to clean the exterior regularly and care for the interior well. Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the cabin, so the seats are in top condition. If you ever notice any dents, get them repaired immediately. Additionally, if you see a drop in the truck’s performance, it means you need to take some action. 

As a truck owner, keep these tips in mind and remember to get the truck professionally cleaned and serviced from time to time. This will make it look and perform efficiently in the following months. 

Guide to F1 betting: key factors to consider for successful betting

By
SM
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Formula 1 is one of the top motorsports in the world, and this high-speed racing event offer up some equally exhilarating betting experiences. In order to become a successful F1 bettor, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of the sport. And this guide will reveal the main factors that can boost your betting strategy.

What are the key factors to consider when betting on F1 races?

Grid Position

Grid position (aka starting position) is a significant factor in F1 betting. The starting order is decided by qualifying results and being at the front often offers a huge advantage, especially on a circuit where it’s difficult to overtake. Historically, a large number of race winners have started near the front. So it’s crucial to take this into consideration when betting.

Tyres

Tyres are super important in F1 races. Teams can choose from different compounds (types of tyres), each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Generally, softer tyres give better grip but wear down quicker. On the other hand, harder tyres last longer but might not offer the same performance. In addition, knowing the tyre strategies for teams, like the number of pitstops, what tyres they use, and how teams use tyres in practice and past races, can provide insights into a team’s race plan and give you a betting edge.

Team Strategies

Even though most of the focus is on drivers, F1 is a team sport. So, bettors should never overlook team strategies, as these can significantly impact race outcomes. For instance, a team may have a particular way of doing pit stops, managing tyres, and putting in fuel. Some teams have a history of doing better in wet races or high-speed circuits than others. Paying attention to how teams plan and change their strategies during races can also help you make more accurate predictions.

Track Characteristics

Each F1 circuit is different. Some are made up of lots of long straights. Others have lots of high braking zones or medium-speed corners. A circuit like the Bahrain GP offers a layout with a mix of all these. You need to consider the kind of track in relation to the driver and car capabilities. For example, circuits with long straights may favour cars with higher top speeds, while tracks with many tight corners may benefit drivers with superior handling skills. Familiarising yourself with each track’s characteristics will significantly enhance your betting strategy.

Rule Changes

F1 regulations are subject to change, and new rules can really shake up the sport. Car design changes, tyre specifications, and race procedures may favour one team over another. So make sure to stay updated on rule changes in order to make the most informed wagers.

Weather

Weather conditions are one of the unforeseen circumstances that can drastically affect F1 races. Rain, in particular, can create unpredictable and challenging race environments, making the races tricky and affecting the outcomes. Excessive hot temperatures may have adverse effects as well. As a result, it is necessary to check weather conditions ahead of race weekends. Then, consider how the forecasts may impact driver performances since some drivers excel in wet conditions while others may struggle.

Why analysing past performances is important

Most of the betting strategies discussed above require you to look for patterns and tendencies from past races, such as drivers who consistently perform well at specific tracks or under certain conditions. The top F1 bookmakers that have been vetted and reviewed by Cheekypunter also utilise historical analysis when setting the odds. They perform extensive research combined with current season performance to determine who’s likely to be favourite or an underdog. In the same way, reviewing historical data can provide insight into future outcomes and help you place bets with the highest rate of success.

Betting on F1 may be exciting, but that’s only when you understand the sport and its many variables. By considering factors such as grid position, tyres, team strategies, track characteristics, weather, etc., you can develop a well-rounded betting strategy.

Unlocking Performance and Comfort: The Benefits of Suspension Kits

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SM
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In the world of automotive enthusiasts, the quest for improved performance and enhanced driving comfort often leads to exploring aftermarket upgrades. Among these, suspension kits stand out as transformative additions to vehicles, offering a blend of practical benefits that cater to both performance-driven individuals and everyday drivers seeking a smoother ride. From improved handling dynamics to increased safety and customization options, suspension kits play a pivotal role in enhancing the driving experience across various terrains and conditions.

Enhanced Handling and Stability

One of the most significant advantages of installing a front suspension kit is the enhancement in handling and stability it brings to a vehicle. Stock suspension setups are designed with a balance that caters to the average driver in typical driving scenarios. However, for those who push their vehicles to their limits or navigate challenging roads frequently, aftermarket suspension kits provide stiffer springs, upgraded shocks, and often sway bars that reduce body roll and improve cornering capabilities.

By replacing factory components with high-performance alternatives, suspension kits allow for precise tuning of suspension geometry and damping characteristics. This translates into sharper turn-ins, reduced understeer or oversteer tendencies, and overall better control during spirited driving or adverse weather conditions. Enthusiasts often find that the improved responsiveness and feedback from the road enhance both the driving pleasure and safety margins.

Customizable Ride Quality

Beyond handling improvements, suspension kits offer a customizable approach to ride quality. Modern kits often feature adjustable components such as coilovers that allow drivers to fine-tune ride height and stiffness settings according to personal preferences or specific driving conditions. This flexibility is particularly valuable for those who enjoy track days and weekend drives but also need a comfortable commute during weekdays.

Adjustable suspension systems not only cater to different driving styles but also accommodate modifications such as larger wheels and tires without compromising on comfort or performance. The ability to adapt suspension settings ensures that drivers can optimize their vehicle’s dynamics for various road surfaces, from smooth highways to bumpy backroads, thereby maintaining stability and comfort across diverse terrains.

Improved Durability and Safety

Another compelling reason to invest in a suspension kit is the potential for increased durability and safety. Factory suspension components can wear out over time, especially under harsh driving conditions or when subjected to heavy loads. Upgrading to aftermarket kits often means replacing worn-out parts with high-quality materials and advanced engineering, which enhances the longevity and reliability of the suspension system.

Moreover, improved suspension dynamics contribute to safer driving experiences by minimizing body sway, reducing the risk of rollovers, and maintaining better traction control. This is particularly beneficial in emergency maneuvers or sudden braking situations where stability and responsiveness can make a crucial difference in avoiding accidents.

Aesthetic and Resale Value

Beyond functional benefits, suspension kits can also enhance the visual appeal of a vehicle. Lowering kits, for instance, offer a sleeker appearance by reducing the ride height and creating a more aggressive stance. This aesthetic transformation not only reflects personal style preferences but also enhances the overall presence of the vehicle on the road.

Furthermore, investing in quality suspension upgrades can positively impact resale value. Potential buyers often appreciate vehicles that have been well-maintained and equipped with performance-enhancing components like suspension kits. The assurance of improved handling, comfort, and durability can make a vehicle more desirable in the competitive used car market.

Considerations and Installation

While suspension kits offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider factors such as compatibility with your vehicle’s make and model, as well as local regulations regarding modifications. Professional installation by experienced technicians ensures proper fitment and alignment, maximizing the effectiveness of the suspension upgrades and minimizing potential risks associated with DIY installations.

Before purchasing a suspension kit, research thoroughly to understand the specific improvements it offers and how they align with your driving needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize track performance, off-road capability, or daily comfort, there’s a suspension kit tailored to enhance your vehicle’s capabilities accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, suspension kits represent a significant upgrade for automotive enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, offering tangible benefits that range from improved handling and safety to customizable ride quality and enhanced aesthetic appeal. By investing in quality suspension upgrades, drivers can unlock the full potential of their vehicles, transforming ordinary commuting into an exhilarating driving experience. Whether you seek better cornering ability, smoother rides, or a more striking appearance, suspension kits provide a versatile solution that elevates both performance and comfort on the road.

Top Esports Games of 2024: Ranked by Profitability

By
SM
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Image Source: Valve

As we enter 2024, the esports landscape continues to evolve, bringing new titles and updates to the forefront of competitive gaming. Several games stand out this year as the premier arenas for professional players and passionate fans. Let’s explore the top esports games that have shaped the competitive scene in 2024.

1. Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)

Counter-Strike 2 has masterfully built upon the strong foundation laid by its legendary predecessor. This new iteration impresses with visually stunning graphics, meticulously refined gameplay mechanics, and the introduction of engaging new modes that push the boundaries of tactical shooters. CS2 has quickly become a pillar of the esports world, beloved for its commitment to updates led by the community and its staunch uphold of competitive fairness. The excitement reaches a crescendo during the CS2 Major Championships, events that draw huge crowds and feature the best teams vying for not just significant prize money, but also the glory that comes with victory.

2. Valorant

Riot Games’ Valorant has only soared higher in popularity in 2024, further refining its winning formula that combines precise tactical shooting with a diverse array of character abilities. This fusion brings a novel twist to the traditional FPS genre, setting Valorant apart in the crowded esports arena. The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) remains a key event each year, drawing attention for its fierce competition and deeply strategic gameplay. With the introduction of new agents and the unveiling of inventive maps, Valorant continues to evolve, maintaining its dynamism and keeping both players and fans thoroughly engaged and invested in its expansive world. For more information and updates on esports marketing, visit Hella Good Marketing.

3. League of Legends

League of Legends continues to stand as an unyielding titan within the esports world. Its deep strategic gameplay, regularly updated content, and intricate lore keep it at the cutting edge of competitive gaming. The League of Legends World Championship remains one of the esports calendar’s most esteemed events, attracting millions of viewers worldwide. In 2024, the introduction of new champions and innovative game modes has infused the gameplay with fresh dynamics, further cementing the League’s dominant position in the industry.

4. Dota 2

Dota 2 remains a cornerstone of the esports landscape, renowned for its intricate mechanics and demanding skill requirements. These elements have also contributed to the growth of a Dota 2 boosting industry. The International, Dota 2’s flagship tournament, stands out as one of the most eagerly anticipated events each year, renowned for its staggering prize pools that attract the top teams from around the world. In 2024, Dota 2 rolled out substantial updates to its hero lineup and game balance, revitalizing the meta to ensure it remains dynamic and fiercely competitive.

5. Fortnite

Epic Games’ Fortnite continues to thrive in the esports scene with its unique blend of building and shooting mechanics. The Fortnite Champion Series (FNCS) is a major highlight, featuring solo and team competitions that showcase the incredible skill and creativity of its players. In 2024, Fortnite’s innovative events and crossovers with popular culture have kept it relevant and exciting for both the competitive and casual audience.

6. Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 has revitalized Blizzard’s team-based shooter, introducing new heroes, maps, and game modes. The Overwatch League (OWL) remains a key fixture in the esports calendar, with teams from around the world competing at the highest level. The game’s focus on team coordination and hero diversity continues to attract a dedicated player base and a passionate fan following.

7. Rocket League

Psyonix’s Rocket League combines the thrill of soccer with the excitement of rocket-powered cars, creating a unique and accessible esports experience. The Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) has seen significant growth in 2024, with increased participation and viewership. The game’s easy-to-understand mechanics but hard-to-master gameplay make it a favorite for both new and veteran players.

8. Call of Duty: Warzone

Activision’s Call of Duty: Warzone has solidified its place in the competitive gaming scene with its fast-paced battle royale action. The Call of Duty League (CDL) has embraced Warzone, incorporating it into its competitive format and offering substantial prize pools. In 2024, Warzone has introduced new maps and game modes, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for its player base.

9. Apex Legends

Respawn Entertainment’s Apex Legends continues to make waves with its unique blend of hero abilities and battle royale gameplay. The Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) remains a major esports event, showcasing high-level competition and strategic play. In 2024, the game has expanded its roster of legends and introduced new content, maintaining its position as a top-tier esports title.

10. Rainbow Six Siege

Ubisoft’s Rainbow Six Siege is known for its tactical depth and destructible environments. The Rainbow Six Siege Pro League remains a crucial part of the esports landscape, featuring intense matches and strategic gameplay. In 2024, Siege has continued to evolve with new operators and seasonal updates, ensuring that the game stays fresh and competitive.

Conclusion

The esports industry in 2024 is as vibrant and dynamic as ever, with a diverse range of games offering something for every type of competitive gamer. From the tactical precision of CS2 and Valorant to the strategic complexities of League of Legends and Dota 2, these titles have set the standard for excellence in esports. As the scene continues to grow, these games will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences and inspire the next generation of professional players.

The Different Betting Types for Sports on Mobile Apps

By
SM
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Picture of Gambling Items
Photo by Josh Appel on Unsplash

Participating in mobile betting has never been easier and more accessible and can easily be done through utilizing a wide array of well-designed apps. With the availability of smartphones, mobile gambling apps have become available anywhere in the world including the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas.

Mobile gambling apps offer plenty of betting options for a wide range of sports. If you want to find these apps, you can easily use a search engine, or our recommended app, 22Bet login.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular betting options for each common sport that you may find on gambling apps:

Motorsports

Unlike ball-related sports, motorsports typically don’t offer betting options such as point spread or totals. Typically, motorsports bets are centered around individual performance and lap speeds. Below are some of the most common options for motorsports betting:

  • Race Winner: The simplest option, betting on which driver or team will win the race.
  • Podium Finish: Betting on whether a driver will finish in the top three. There are also options to bet for specific positions.
  • Head-to-Head: Betting which of two specified drivers will finish ahead of the other.
  • Fastest Qualifier: Betting on pole position, like podium finish, you can bet on specific pole positions.
  • Futures: Wagers on future events. An example in NASCAR would be betting on which drivers will be in the playoffs, for example.

Basketball

Moving on to ball sports, these focus more heavily on points, and team performance. There are many similarities between basketball to other sports, like soccer, and American football.

  • Winner: This bet is where you choose which team will win the game.
  • Props: Wagers specific events or performances, such as points scored, rebounds, passes, penalties, or assists.
  • Totals: Betting on whether the total points scored in the game will be over or under a specified number.

American Football

Similar betting options to basketball. The scoring system is different and much more rigid due to how the teams swap offensive and defensive positions.

  • Winner: Like basketball, this bet is where you choose which team will win the game.
  • Totals: Similarly to basketball, this bet is on whether the total points scored in the game will be over or under a specified number.
  • Props: A wager on specific events within the game, such as the first touchdown, first penalty, or even weather.
  • Parlays: A higher risk, but higher reward combination of multiple bets into a single wager. All bets must succeed to payout.

Boxing

Boxing moves back towards individual performance. The way winners are decided in boxing is via judges and a scoring system based on hits, dodges, and more. Boxing makes for a very interesting betting option because there are many outcomes to any boxing match, each round could be the last.

  • Winner: Betting on which boxer will win the match overall.
  • Round Finish: Betting on which round a fight will end or if it will go the entire distance.
  • Type of Victory: Betting on how the boxing match will end. Victory can be achieved via a knockout, disqualification, etc.
  • Props: Specific outcomes like total punches, knockdowns, or even objects thrown into the ring during the match.

Benefits of Mobile Gambling Apps

Mobile gambling apps have made participating in betting types much more accessible. These apps are just as capable now as dedicated websites and real-life bookmakers. These apps offer real-time odds updates, easy installation, secure payment options, and the convenience of placing bets from anywhere at any time.

Another benefit is that apps on their respective app stores must be compliant with the laws and regulations of the country you reside in. There is no gray area on whether the app you participate in is illegal. Hopefully, you learned a bit more about the types of betting you can encounter on gambling apps, and remember to bet responsibly!

Flying Lizard Increases Footprint as SRO America Season Resumes at VIR

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Official Release
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ALTON, Va., (July 16, 2024) – Summer break is over for the series under the SRO America umbrella, and Flying Lizard Motorsports has another action-packed weekend ahead at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR). As the group heads into the second half of the season, the driver roster remains unchanged but Flying Lizard will expand to seven entries between the Fanatec GT World Challenge America, GT America, and GT4 America efforts.

“We can’t wait to get things going again for the second half of the season,” said Program Manager Darren Law. “It has been a bit of a long break, but it gave us time to go through the primary cars as well as prepare second cars for both Elias Sabo and Damir Hot and get some testing in. VIR is an amazing circuit, it is fast, technical, and takes a lot of commitment in the high-speed sections. We have had success here in the past and hope to break through with some podium finishes this weekend.”

Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS

Race Length: 90 minutes
Classes: Overall, Pro-Am, AM
Race Start: 7/20 at 3:10 PM EDT; 7/21 at 2:15 PM EDT
Race Stream: YouTube.com/GTWorld

Elias Sabo and Andy Lee (No. 8 Aston Martin Vantage GT3) continue to be the sole Lizard entry in the top series of the SRO America organization. With six rounds complete, the pair remain on their quest to secure their first podium together at the GT3 level. Last year at VIR, the pair earned a pair of top-five finishes, showing strength on the 3.270-mile, 17-turn course.

GT America powered by AWS

Race Length: 40 minutes
Classes: SRO3, GT2, GT4
Race Start: 7/20 at 1:00 PM EDT; 7/21 at 8:45 AM EDT
Race Stream: YouTube.com/GTWorld

The Lizard GT America program grows by two cars this weekend, bringing the total count to four entries. Elias Sabo (No. 48 Aston Martin Vantage GT3) and Damir Hot (No. 05 Nissan Z GT4) will join Jason Bell (No. 2 Aston Martin Vantage GT4) and Todd Parriott (No. 31 Aston Martin Vantage GT4). The team currently holds four top-five finishes in the championship reserved for bronze-rated drivers. The four-car effort will add a considerable flurry to the team’s garage this weekend but also gives the four drivers a suitable additional amount of track time to continue their racing development.

Pirelli GT 4 America

Race Length: 60 minutes
Classes: Silver, Pro-Am, Am
Race Start: 7/20 at 5:00 PM EDT; 7/21 at 10:55 am EDT
Race Stream: YouTube.com/GTWorld

After the previous four-hour endurance round at Circuit of the Americas, competitors of the GT4 America Series return to their regular two-race, 60-minute format. Todd Parriott and Tom Dyer (No. 13 Aston Martin Vantage GT4) secured a well-earned fourth-place finish in the endurance event, and will look to build on that momentum this weekend at VIR. Damir Hot and Rodrigo Baptista (No. 5 Nissan Z GT4) showed great pace at the Austin event as they entered their first race weekend as co-drivers, but the Nissan Z was forced to retire early. The new duo anxiously looks forward to this weekend’s activities at VIR, hopeful to see what they can accomplish come weekend’s end.

Event Schedule | All Times EDT

All Races Live on YouTube.com/GTWorld

Friday, July 19

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM GT America Practice 1

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM GT World Challenge Practice 1

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM GT4 America Practice 1

1:45 PM – 2:15 PM GT America Practice 2

3:15 PM – 4:15 PM GT World Challenge Practice 2

5:15 PM – 6:00 PM GT 4 America Practice 2

Saturday, July 20

8:05 AM – 8:20 AM GT America Qualifying

9:05 AM – 9:20 AM GT World Challenge Qualifying 1

9:25 AM – 9:40 AM GT World Challenge Qualifying 2

10:25 AM – 10:40 AM GT4 America Qualifying 1

10:45 AM – 11:00 AM GT4 America Qualifying 2

1:00 PM – 1:40 PM GT America Race 1

3:10 PM – 4:40 PM GT World Challenge Race 1

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM GT4 America Race 1

Sunday, July 21

8:45 AM – 9:25 AM GT America Race 2

10:55 AM – 11:55 AM GT4 America Race 2

2:15 PM – 3:45 PM GT World Challenge Race 2

About Flying Lizard Motorsports

Based out of Sonoma, California, Flying Lizard Motorsports is one of the most iconic sports car teams in motorsports, having celebrated ten driver and team championships, as well as competed internationally at the 24 Hours of Le Mans eight times.

The Lizards burst on the American Le Mans Series scene in 2004, competing in the GT class until 2012. In 2013, the team moved to the GTC class, still competing in legendary events such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Daytona. In 2014, the team expanded its program to include running two Audi R8 LMS in the TUDOR Championship, and in 2015, again expanded the program to include two Porsches in Porsche Club racing. Flying Lizard closed out the season with a dominating win at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill with Toyo Tires, a win they repeated in 2016, 2017, and 2018. The 2020 season proved the team’s most successful to date, earning four titles in the GT4 America championship. Flying Lizard Motorsports has proven to be a championship contender no matter the race series or race car. For more information, visit lizardms.com.

About 5.11
With offices around the globe, 5.11 ABR Corp. and its subsidiaries, including 5.11, Inc., work with end users to create purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear designed specifically to enhance the safety, accuracy, speed, and performance of tactical professionals and technical enthusiasts worldwide. 5.11 products exceed rigorous standards, which have allowed the brand to establish a reputation for innovation and authenticity, and become the premier choice for those who always have to be ready. 5.11 products can be purchased online, through authorized dealers and retailers, as well as at 5.11 company-owned retail stores.

Learn more about 5.11’s best-selling gear and accessories at www.511tactical.com. Find a full list of 5.11 company-owned retail stores at https://www.511tactical.com/locations/. Connect with 5.11 on Facebook, Twitter @511Tactical and on Instagram @511Tactical and #511tactical

5.11 ABR Corp. is a subsidiary of Compass Diversified (NYSE: CODI).

5.11, 5.11 Tactical and Always Be Ready are registered trademarks of 5.11, Inc. All rights reserved.

About Apex Motor Club

Apex Motor Club is Arizona’s premier motorsports club located just 35 miles southwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and the only private motorsports club located within a major metropolitan area. APEX is the ultimate country club for automotive enthusiasts where car culture, racing and country club lifestyles converge. Enjoy an hour of track time in your latest acquisition, drive off track, into your privately-owned garage and join like- minded enthusiasts in the clubhouse for food, beverages, and activities.

To learn more about the newest racing circuit in the country, visit https://apexmotorclub.com

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