Toyota Racing – Sonoma Post-Practice Quotes NASCAR Cup Series Quotes
SONOMA, Calif. (June 7, 2024) – Joe Gibbs Racing drivers Christopher Bell, Ty Gibbs and Denny Hamlin, along with 23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick were made available to the media after practice for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Sonoma Raceway on Friday.
CHRISTOPHER BELL, No. 20 Rheem Toyota Camry XSE, Joe Gibbs Racing
Do you have to drive turn 11 differently?
“No, I didn’t really notice much difference. I guess it is probably going to make it a little more congested if there is a crash and you aren’t going to have anywhere to go, but other than that, normal racing conditions. I didn’t notice a difference.”
Did you notice any changes with the sight lines?
“It definitely makes it harder to see but running your normal line – you are just trying to keep it tight there. It was a little bit harder to see, but other than that it wasn’t really any change.”
Does it still feel like Sonoma?
“No. It does not. The grip level is just really different than what we’ve had in the past, and the name of the game here was managing your tires and knowing how to create grip when the tires started falling off. There is not any of that now.”
Does the change to the track, change where you are at this weekend?
“No, it doesn’t. Really practice went – at least my team – went exactly how we expected it too. It was a struggle for our team, but the grip level stayed consistent throughout the entire run. We never saw any tire wear or tires losing grip, and I didn’t run very long, because I was struggling out there. Maybe that is why I didn’t see what other guys saw.”
Is the speed what you thought it was going to be?
“Honestly, it is a little faster than we thought it would be. We expected to run in the .74’s, and I think guys were in the low .73’s.”
TY GIBBS, No. 54 He Gets Us Toyota Camry XSE, Joe Gibbs Racing
What do you think of the repave?
“I feel like it is not as different that I thought it would be. It’s okay. It’s pretty smooth so far, so they did a good job. It is definitely a lot faster, but it doesn’t feel like it changed a lot, so that is good.”
What is the mindset for a track like this?
“The mindset is about the same for me every weekend. Just going and working as hard as I can, preparing as hard as I can to be the best I can, so I can come out here and go race for a win every week. I feel like that is the fun part of my racing career. It’s fun to get better and it’s fun to be in racing.”
Can you talk about some of the differences in the turns out there?
“I haven’t had too much of an issue. It is definitely easy to over drive the corner with the way the repave is. I only ran twice here last year – in my whole career – I didn’t get used to it as much. This track is relatively new to me, and we go at it with a bang.”
Do you like coming here?
“I enjoy coming here. I just like the environment. I really like the road course too – it is a fun place to come. Hopefully I can get my first win here, too.”
“It feels like Sonoma. Not much difference. Just you’re hitting the gas a little bit sooner, a little bit harder. It definitely feels just like the old track, just you’ve got a lot more speed.”
Does it feel like you’re four seconds faster out there?
“Yeah, it’s just, on a track this big you can make up four seconds like – you can lose half a second in one corner and you don’t even realize it’s that much time. We have that much more grip, global grip in the track. It’s not one section that you notice you’re way faster. It’ just generally the whole track.”
Does turn 11 feel different with the big wall there?
“Yeah, a little bit. It’s a little bit blind but you’re kind of getting used to it and understanding the radius of how far I’ve got to turn the wheel to make the corner without hitting it. I think there will definitely be a few that cut it too tight and risk knocking a toe link out but hopefully it’s not us.”
Is there any tire wear at all?
“Not that we’ve seen. It’s typical kind of heat in the tires that’s kind of making it drop off a little bit in time but once it cools off it will go right back where it was.”
TYLER REDDICK, No. 45 Monster Energy Toyota Camry XSE, 23XI Racing
Were there any issues during practice today?
“No issues.”
Will the patches on the track hold all weekend?
“You never know, but we’re good.”
Is turn 11 different with the wall there?
“Yeah, it was kind of hard to see the tire packs before the wall. It’s kind of hard to see too, but it’s kind of in the blind spot you have on the right side of the windshield. I know what they had in mind by doing it. Just to keep cars from crashing across turn 11. Guys like me with a flat come across it and back to pit road.”
Does the track feel faster than in the past?
“Yeah, it really does. It’s pretty wild. The feel out there. You feel like you’re doing something – it feels like you’re doing something wrong, it feels like you’re going to crash going into turn 1 because you’re going in there way faster than you should but it’s workable.”
Is it more fun out there?
“It feels sketchy at times, but when it sticks it’s fun, yeah. When you lose grip it’s not good. We have a little bit of room in turn 1 and a couple corners – turn 3. But when you get stepped out of shape through the esses coming back down in turn 10 – turn 10 is going to be a place I feel like gets a few people over the course of the weekend.”
Do you think this will fit your style of racing?
“To a degree, yeah. We still gotta work on our car and try to find some things. I definitely think it helps. In the past year, it’s just added another element that some of the vets were a little better at than I was at road courses. Now, for the most part I think that’s going to be gone to some degree. I still feel like if you get out of shape, slide a tire, it gets hot, it’s going to have to cool back off, so you still have to keep it straight in some manner. Tires don’t wear away as fast – it’s going to be more about fuel strategy.”
Is the simulator still as beneficial with a newly paved track?
“Yeah, it can be. Always think making use of our TRD simulator is always a big help on these weekends. Sim time always helps.”
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 26 electrified options.
NASCAR CUP SERIES SONOMA RACEWAY TEAM CHEVY MEDIA AVAILABILITY QUOTES JUNE 7, 2024
Will Brown, driver of the No. 33 Mobile X / Shaw and Partners Camaro ZL1, met with the media in advance of his NASCAR Cup Series debut at Sonoma Raceway.
Media Availability Quotes:
How do you feel about being here at Sonoma Raceway for your NASCAR Cup Series debut?
“It’s cool to come over here. For myself, watching what SVG did last year, a lot of Aussies have paid a lot of attention to NASCAR now and I’m pretty excited to come over and have a go. I was lucky enough to put a deal together with Richard (Childress). We were able to have him out to Australia at the end of last year, and yeah, made that connection. So, for myself, it was cool to put a deal together last minute and hopefully we’ll have a good weekend.”
Could you just talk a little bit about the reception and getting to know others? I guess you haven’t had a ton of time to really immerse yourself totally in that, but just a little bit about that and kind of what your realistic expectations are.
“Yeah, I haven’t had a long time to meet everyone just yet. I came over about four weeks ago for about three days to do a seat fitting and everything. I’ve been racing a lot in Australia and that was the only time I could fit in. I raced last weekend and got here Monday afternoon, and I’ve been into since then. I was able to meet a couple of the guys this morning. It’s been pretty cool to be watching NASCAR and then meet a few of them.
The expectations are a really hard thing for this weekend and to know what to expect. Shane (van Gisbergen), obviously coming over last year and doing what he did, makes it hard for the Aussies to come out now. It’s like a let down if we don’t win. It’s one of those things – I think Shane’s been running inside the top-10 for his last couple of road course runs, so that would be great if we could do that. There are a lot of cars out there that have good drivers in them, so I really don’t know what to expect until after practice and qualifying.”
What has your preparation been for this weekend?
“Yeah, I was really lucky when I came over three weeks ago, I got an hour in the simulator. So that was good just to familiarize myself with this track. I’ve never seen it before. I hadn’t driven it before that. And then this week, I was able to piggy-back off the end of Austin’s (Dillon) session and get an hour there. And then with Kyle (Busch) doing the test at one of the tracks, I was able to get his whole simulator session. That’s something we don’t use back at home. For drivers, there are no simulators. We can use a cheaper sort of one in our house, but yeah we don’t have that sort of facility or infrastructure. So yeah, it was cool to get on it. I think we had a really good simulator session on the last time on Wednesday, and yeah, I seem to know the track pretty well.”
You get one, short practice here today. What can you accomplish and what do you want to accomplish during that practice session to make you feel as comfortable as possible?
“Yeah, it’s a tough one. When I found out the practice session was getting a lot longer due to the repave, I was pretty excited about that. The 50-minute practice session should be good. But yeah, for me, it’s about running laps around here; getting used to the car. In Australia, Supercars run at a high level and learning new tracks. But for me, it’s going to be learning a new track and a car. So yeah, just build up into it; hopefully no mistakes and see where we end up at the end of the session.”
In terms of experience, I think SVG had said he had never had a right-side shifter car.. anything like that. Where are you on that front? Have you done this before?
“Yeah, Supercars are very similar cars, but they are a right-hand drive. Also, I raced in GT cars, so I’ve raced left-hand drive, but they’re pedal, so I haven’t shifted with the right-hand yet, so we’ll see how I go with that. But in the simulator, it wasn’t hard at all. It was sort of just – I don’t know.. I’m used to racing different cars, so you sort of switch over. Yeah, it’ll be interesting once I’m out on track, but so far, I haven’t found it too bad.”
New surface here at Sonoma Raceway.. Did the time in the simulator teach you anything about this place or is this going to be an ongoing learning, on-the-fly, kind of thing?
“I feel good after the simulator. I think it’s a very good tool to use to get a driver ready for the track. But yeah, nothing is the same as the real thing at the end of the day. So yeah, you can prep that way, but until I get out there, I don’t really know what to expect. I know the layout; know where I’ve got to go and the bumps. But we’ll see how the real car reacts to it.”
There haven’t been a whole lot of Australians here in NASCAR, but did you follow Marcos Ambrose at all growing up?
“Yeah, so I wouldn’t say I followed it massively when I was younger. I got into racing a little bit later. Marcos (Ambrose) was actually coming back to Australia when I was coming into the Supercars scene. So yeah, I’ve definitely kept an eye on it. I think since Shane (van Gisbergen) came over, it’s really put it on the map. I think for a lot of Australians, it wasn’t that we didn’t love watching NASCAR, but we probably didn’t think it was possible to get a team to look at us and give us the opportunity to drive in NASCAR. After Shane did that, it’s opened up some doors, and with meeting Richard (Childress) last year, it sort of kind of came on from there and I’ve stayed in contact. I didn’t think I’d be in this position a year ago, so it’s pretty exciting.”
You don’t necessarily remember the year that Marcos (Ambrose) almost won here, right?
“No, I don’t.. no. Sorry.”
In the Supercars and the other series you run in, you run against a lot of the same people so you learn their tendencies and you know how to race them. How do you approach this race? Besides the car, you’re racing with a bunch of people you’ve never raced with before. What do you look for?
“Yeah, it’s going to be interesting. We race hard back at home, but it’s sort of scrutinized. Where over here, obviously it’s not as much. So, I’m used to the argy-bargy, but I don’t know who sort of does that and who doesn’t, so it’ll be interesting. But that’s life – it’ll be a lot of learning out there this weekend and I’m excited for that. We’ll see what comes of it, really.”
What do you think of the track and the area around here?
“Yeah, it’s awesome. It’s been cool to have a look. I walked the track for the first time this morning and the angulation, how steep it is going into turn two, I didn’t expect that. I don’t think the simulator shows that as much, or even onboard footage. There’s a lot of uphill and downhill, but we do have tracks similar to that in Australia, so it’s not unusual. But yeah, probably didn’t expect that. It’ll just be cool to see everyone come out here on Sunday and see what it’s like to race over here in front of a crowd.”
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
THE ROAD HOME: This weekend NASCAR visits wine country in Sonoma, California. The event is a homecoming for Kyle Larson, who is from Elk Grove, California, and considers Sonoma Raceway his home track on the Cup Series circuit. Located less than 100 miles from his hometown, the 1.99-mile road course is a place Larson looks forward to racing annually. During his 2021 championship season, he led 57 laps en route to a win at the venue.
OUT FRONT: In 2024, Larson has led 656 laps – the most of any driver by 48. The 2021 NASCAR Cup champion also has a series-high seven stage wins and three pole positions.
SONOMA SUCCESS: Larson, who will drive the No. 5 Valvoline Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 this weekend, holds the record for most consecutive poles at Sonoma (2017-2019, 2022). The track did not host a race in 2020, and although time trials were not held in 2021, the driver still started from the top spot via NASCAR’s qualifying metric. With an average starting position of 3.7, Larson holds the best mark of all drivers to ever compete at the California road course.
VICTORIOUS: Larson, 31, has visited victory lane twice in 2024. In March at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the 2014 rookie of the year led 181 laps and won both stages before winning at the desert track. In May at Kansas Speedway, Larson nosed ahead of Chris Buescher at the finish line to win by 0.001 seconds – the closest finish in Cup Series history.
ROAD RANKS: With four road course wins, Larson is tied for third-most among active Cup Series drivers. All four have come with crew chief Cliff Daniels, who ranks second among active crew chiefs for victories on serpentine layouts. Both marks trail the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports duo of driver Chase Elliott and crew chief Alan Gustafson, who have combined for seven road course wins.
FOUR TIRES FAST: In 2024, the No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM pit crew holds the seventh-fastest average four-tire pit stop time in the Cup Series at 10.91 seconds. Larson’s over-the-wall crew consists of Blaine Anderson (front-tire changer), R.J. Barnette (tire carrier), Brandon Harder (fueler), Brandon Johnson (jackman) and Calvin Teague (rear-tire changer).
VALVOLINE ON BOARD: At Sonoma, Valvoline will appear for its second of three 2024 primary races with the No. 5 team. Valvoline Inc. is a global leader in vehicle care and supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services. Since 2014, Hendrick Motorsports has earned a NASCAR-best three Cup Series championships (2016, 2020 and 2021) with Valvoline products in its Chevrolet racing engines. Off the track, Valvoline is the preferred lubricant of Hendrick Automotive Group, which operates 95 car dealerships across the United States. See every angle of the paint scheme that will be on track here.
9 CHASE ELLIOTT
Age: 28 (Nov. 28, 1995)
Hometown: Dawsonville, Georgia
Resides: Dawsonville, Georgia
Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson
Standings: 3rd
No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Gold Filters Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
SONOMA REWIND: Last season at Sonoma Raceway, Chase Elliott qualified 10th for the 110-lap NASCAR Cup Series event. The 28-year-old driver finished the first stage 12th and the second stage 16th before ultimately taking the checkered flag in fifth position. Elliott led twice for a total of seven laps, marking his fourth consecutive race pacing the field at Sonoma. It was his third straight finish of eighth or better at the Napa Valley track.
ROAD RUNDOWN: While it has been three years since Elliott’s last Cup Series victory on a road course, he has continued to be among the best in the field since the 2022 introduction of the Next Gen race car. Since then, he is ranked second in laps run inside the top five (474) and third in laps run inside the top 10 (708). Elliott also holds the second-best average finish (10.08) and fourth-best average start (8.67) on serpentine tracks in the Next Gen era. His six top-five finishes are tied for most by active drivers and his eight top-10s have him tied for third.
KING OF THE ROAD (COURSE): Elliott, who will drive the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Gold Filters Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 this weekend, leads active drivers with seven Cup Series victories on road courses and is tied for the most stage wins with eight. He’s also third on the all-time road course victories list, trailing only NASCAR Hall of Famers Jeff Gordon (nine) and Tony Stewart (eight). Elliott has triumphs across five different road courses, the most in series history. In 31 Cup starts on tracks with left and right turns, Elliott has an average finish of 8.74, which is not only the best among active drivers, but fifth all-time (minimum of five starts). He also leads active drivers with 486 laps led on road courses.
SEEKING A WINE COUNTRY WIN: Sonoma and the Chicago Street Course are the only two road courses on the current Cup Series schedule where Elliott has yet to win. The 2020 Cup Series champion has been impressive on the Napa Valley track, earning a best finish of second in 2021. In just seven Sonoma starts, Elliott has three top-five finishes and five top-10s with 49 laps led. The Dawsonville, Georgia, native holds the third-best average starting position all-time at Sonoma (6.43). In fact, he’s started from the front row in two of his last three starts on the California road course.
FIRST VICTORY: Elliott’s first career Cup Series victory came at a road course: Watkins Glen International in 2018. The six-time National Motorsports Press Association Most Popular Driver Award winner started the race from the third position and led 52 of 90 laps en route to the win.
TALKIN’ 2024: Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, continues his strong 2024 Cup Series campaign. Following a solid points day at WWT Raceway on Sunday, Elliott improved to third in the standings, just 27 points behind the leader. His average finish of 9.87 is the best in the series and is also his best average finish through 15 races in his Cup career. Elliott is the only driver this season to finish every event inside the top 20. He has posted a top-five result in five of the last nine races and has seven top-10s in 2024.
VIEW FROM THE TOP: This Sunday at Sonoma, No. 9 crew chief Alan Gustafson will call his 53rd road course race from atop the pit box. In those starts, he’s led his team to seven wins – a series high among active crew chiefs – along with 20 top-five finishes and 28 top-10s.
FASTEST FIVE: In April at Texas Motor Speedway, the No. 9 pit crew laid down the fastest four-tire pit stop (9.076 seconds) of any team in 2024. The over-the-wall squad has remained the same since 2018 and currently holds the fastest average four-tire pit stop time (10.557 seconds) this season. The 2021 Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew is comprised of Chad Avrit (rear-tire changer), Jared Erspamer (tire carrier), John Gianninoto (fueler), Nick O’Dell (front-tire changer) and T.J. Semke (jackman).
GOLD STANDARD: Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will have a different look this weekend at Sonoma. Primary partner NAPA Auto Parts is trading in its iconic blue and yellow for a black and gold livery, highlighting its line of NAPA Gold™ oil filters. Since 1966, NAPA Gold™ oil filters have earned the trust of generations of drivers and car enthusiasts. Each one is built to offer better strength, performance benefits and is specifically designed to remove contaminants to keep engines running at peak performance. Elliott raced this scheme for the first time last fall at Bristol Motor Speedway, earning a seventh-place finish.
24 WILLIAM BYRON
Age: 26 (Nov. 29, 1997)
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Resides: Charlotte, North Carolina
Crew Chief: Rudy Fugle
Standings: 5th
No. 24 RAPTOR Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
24 IN ‘24: William Byron’s 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season continues to be nothing short of impressive. The Charlotte, North Carolina, native is tied for the series lead in wins with three, has five top-five finishes and is tied for the most top-10s with nine. After 15 races, he has the fifth-best average finish (12.0) while sitting fifth in the 2024 Cup standings with 16 playoff points.
NEXT GEN DUO: Since the Next Gen Cup Series car was introduced in 2022, Byron and crew chief Rudy Fugle have a series-leading 11 wins. Byron also has the second-best average finish (13.05) in the Next Gen car behind teammate Chase Elliott. On road courses, he is tied for the fifth-best average finish (12.00) and has four top-10 results (tied for the fourth-most) with 352 laps run in the top five and 468 laps in the top 10 (both ranked sixth-most), all in the Next Gen era.
ROAD COURSE RINGER: Byron picked up his first Cup Series road course win at Watkins Glen International in August 2023 and his second at Circuit of The Americas in March 2024. In fact, in the 2023 season, he scored the most points on road courses (213) and led the most laps (94). In 2024, the series has competed on one road course, COTA, where Byron dominated by capturing the pole before going on to earn the win. The driver of the No. 24 RAPTOR Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has won two of the last three road course races and is on a three-race streak of consecutive top-10 finishes (tied for the second-longest) in which all were top-two results.
OVER-QUALIFIED: In 28 Cup Series starts on road courses, Byron has five pole awards on four different layouts. He is the only driver in history to earn Cup pole positions at four different road courses: the Charlotte ROVAL, the Indianapolis Road Course, COTA and Road America.
SONOMA STATS: Sunday’s race will mark Byron’s sixth career Cup start at Sonoma Raceway. In five previous appearances, his best qualifying effort came in 2019 when he captured the outside pole position and he notched his top finish of ninth in 2022.
FUGLE FILES: So far in 2024, the Cup Series has raced on one road course, Circuit of The Americas, where crew chief Fugle and the No. 24 team captured the pole and the win. All told, Fugle has 29 NASCAR national series starts on road courses (19 Cup Series, three Xfinity Series and seven CRAFTSMAN Truck Series). With triumphs at Watkins Glen and COTA, he is tied for the fourth-most road course wins by active Cup Series crew chiefs. He also has a road win in the truck ranks in 2015.
WHAT’S IN A NUMBER: With his third straight multi-victory season, Byron continues the winning tradition of the No. 24 team. In the Cup Series, the iconic car number is third on the all-time wins list with 106, trailing only the No. 11 (233) and the No. 43 (200). All of Byron’s 13 premier series wins have come in the No. 24 car, while Jeff Gordon accounts for 93 race victories in the number. The No. 24 also has 11 Cup wins on road courses – two with Byron and nine with Gordon – which is tied with the No. 9 for the most on serpentine layouts.
PIT ROAD PROWESS: After 15 races in the 2024 season, the No. 24 pit crew continues its success from last year. The five-person crew ranks second in the Cup Series for the fastest average four-tire pit stop (10.747 seconds). The No. 24 pit crew consists of Spencer Bishop (jackman), Jeff Cordero (front-tire changer), Orane Ossowski (rear-tire changer), Ryan Patton (tire carrier) and Landon Walker (fueler).
RAPTOR® TOUGH: For this weekend at Sonoma Raceway, Byron will sport his Raptor paint scheme that will continue to run the majority of the season on the No. 24 Chevy. RAPTOR® is a durable protective coating that is designed to tolerate the toughest climatic conditions and can be applied to a wide range of items, including truck beds, lawnmowers, outdoor furniture and more. With 16 pre-mixed colors available, it’s easy to personalize anything you want to protect. RAPTOR® is available at local paint distributors, auto parts stores and online retailers.
48 ALEX BOWMAN
Age: 31 (April 25, 1993)
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Resides: Concord, North Carolina
Crew Chief: Blake Harris
Standings: 10th
No. 48 Ally Pride Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
2024 SO FAR: Following the 15th race of the season, Alex Bowman and the No. 48 Ally Racing team are tied for 10th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings, 117 points behind the leader. The team has secured four top-five finishes, tied with 2021 for Bowman’s most through 15 races in a season. The Tucson, Arizona, native has also earned an impressive nine top-10 finishes, tied with 2022 for his most through 15 starts. The nine top-10 results place him in a three-way tie for the most in 2024 alongside Tyler Reddick and Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron. Bowman has finished in the top 10 in eight of the last 11 races.
SONOMA DEETS: This weekend, the Cup Series will compete at Sonoma Raceway in northern California wine country. Bowman has seven Cup starts at the 12-turn road course. In these Golden State starts, the 31-year-old driver has secured two top-10 finishes (2018 and 2021).
ROAD #RALLY48: Since the introduction of the Next Gen race car in 2022, Bowman is in a five-way tie for second in top-five finishes on road courses. The driver of the No. 48 Ally Pride Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 ranks second in the sport’s premier series for the most runner-up finishes on road courses (two) without a win. His second-place performances occurred at the Charlotte ROVAL (2019) and Circuit of The Americas (2022).
ALLY PRIDE: On Wednesday, primary sponsor Ally released the No. 48 Ally Pride Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 that will unload for competition this weekend at Sonoma Raceway. June is Pride Month, and Ally will celebrate by running a Pride-themed scheme for the fourth consecutive year. The 2024 design features the logo of Pride Allys on the hood and a rainbow treatment to the digital bank’s motto “do it right” on the rear-quarter panel. Pride Allys is Ally Financial’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group. Check out all angles of the entry here.
FIRST LAP: In Sonoma, Ally’s First Lap initiative returns to the track for a third time this season. The second-year program focuses on introducing NASCAR to new fans from minority communities. In conjunction with June’s Pride Month, Ally will host a group of more than 20 individuals from Positive Images on race day. Positive Images is a community center based in Sonoma County dedicated to providing essential services that encompass mental health support, advocacy and education to California’s LGBTQIA+ population. These first-time race-goers will meet Bowman and receive a tour of the garage area, the No. 48 team transporter and more.
GOLDEN GATE BASSET RESCUE: Did you know Basset Hounds were originally bred in France for hunting small game such as rabbits? Today these short-legged dogs known for their long ears and droopy eyes are a fond pet of Americans nationwide. 2024 marks the fourth consecutive year Bowman and Ally are supporting Best Friends Animal Society and its vast network of partners. This weekend, the pair’s weekly donation of $4,800 will go to Golden Gate Basset Hound Rescue. The shelter is located at 1032 Crinella Drive, Petaluma, CA 94954, just 13 miles northwest of the track.
ALLY RACING PIT CREW: This year, the Ally Racing pit crew ranks ninth in the Cup Series for the best average four-tire stop (10.978 seconds). The five-man No. 48 crew is comprised of jackman Allen Holman, tire carrier Brandon Grier, front-tire changer Donnie Tasser, rear-tire changer Andrew Bridgeforth and gasman Jacob Conley.
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS /
2024
All-Time
Sonoma
Races
15
1,360
34
Wins
6*
307*
7*
Poles
4*
250*
10*
Top 5
20*
1,252*
34*
Top 10
32*
2,144*
61*
Laps Led
1,031
80,788*
808*
Stage Wins
9
107
5*
*Most **Most (tie)
ROAD RULE: Entering Sunday’s event at Sonoma Raceway, Hendrick Motorsports has accumulated a NASCAR Cup Series record 28 points-paying wins on road courses. The total includes 13 victories from its active drivers: Chase Elliott (seven), Kyle Larson (four) and William Byron (two). Joe Gibbs Racing is second in all-time road course wins with 15. No other organization has accumulated more than eight.
RIVERSIDE TO SONOMA: Hendrick Motorsports will take on Sonoma Raceway this weekend, but its success on road courses began at another famed California track. On Nov. 18, 1984, driver Geoff Bodine punctuated the organization’s inaugural season with a win at the now-defunct Riverside International Raceway, which was located east of Los Angeles. It was Bodine’s third victory of the year and represented the team’s first on a road course. Hendrick Motorsports is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024.
NO FLUKE: Eight different drivers have won on road courses for Hendrick Motorsports, the most for a single team in Cup Series history. Jeff Gordon (nine) is the all-time leader in road course wins, while Elliott (seven) is the active leader. Larson (four wins), Tim Richmond (three), Byron (two), Jimmie Johnson (one), Ricky Rudd (one) and Bodine (one) have all earned road course victories for the team.
STATISTICS COURSE: In addition to its 28 wins, Hendrick Motorsports holds the Cup Series road course records in the following categories: pole positions (26), top-five finishes (91), top-10s (153) and laps led (2,331). On road courses, it has twice as many poles as any other team and has led 1,076 more laps than its closest competitor.
SAID HEADS UNITE: This weekend, Hendrick Motorsports is back in NASCAR Xfinity Series action at Sonoma Raceway with veteran road racer Boris Said behind the wheel of the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Camaro. He has one career victory in the series, which came in 2010 at Montreal. Elliott (Charlotte Motor Speedway) and Larson (Circuit of The Americas) have driven the No. 17 Chevrolet to victory already this season.
CELEBRATING 40: In 2024, Hendrick Motorsports is celebrating its 40th anniversary. The team holds the all-time NASCAR Cup Series records in every major statistical category, including championships (14), wins (307), pole positions (250) and laps led (80,788). This season, it leads all Cup organizations with six points-paying victories through 15 races.
QUOTABLE /
Kyle Larson, driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on racing in northern California: “It’s always a fun race weekend since I grew up pretty close (in Elk Grove, California) to there. I was pretty good there – at least in qualifying – before I joined Hendrick (Motorsports), and then we put a whole weekend together in 2021 to get the win. We’ll see what the repave is like during practice on Friday and hopefully adjust and stay on top of those conditions throughout the weekend.”
Cliff Daniels, crew chief of the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on practice and the Sonoma race weekend: “I can’t wait to get to Sonoma. It’s a great track for Kyle and it’s a great track for our team. It’s certainly gonna be challenging with the repave and just trying to get the feel for the track. The new pavement, I’m sure it’s gonna evolve throughout the weekend when it starts to take rubber and then we’ll just have to stay on top of that. But we do get a full practice on Friday to run through some changes and really try to get an understanding of what we need. Kyle always does a great job there. You know it’s really close to home for him so I know it’s a meaningful race for him.”
Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on expectations for Sonoma: “I would like to think we can go out there and have a shot to win. It’s basically a new track for all of us except for the three drivers that got to test. It’s going to take a little time. We do get extra practice on Friday, which is nice, especially for a repave. I think that it (the practice) is warranted, and it’ll give us a few extra laps. We’ll go to work and see where we stack up.”
Alan Gustafson, crew chief of the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on the consistency the team has shown this season: “I’m really proud of the effort we’ve put forth so far this season. We are all focused doing our jobs to the best of our ability and I think that shows with our performance on the track. Our pit stops have been consistently strong all year and we continue to prepare fast race cars. We’re working really well together as a group. If we have a bad race, we don’t dwell on it. We keep looking to how we can improve for the next race. I think that’s all you can ask for in your team.”
William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on how he feels about Sonoma Raceway: “I’m interested to see how this weekend goes at Sonoma (Raceway). Road courses have really become a strength for our team lately, but we haven’t been to Sonoma since those improvements have been made. That paired with the new pavement from the repave will make for some challenges we all have to overcome, but I think we’ll be in a good spot.”
Rudy Fugle, crew chief of the No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on his expectations for Sonoma Raceway: “Sonoma (Raceway) is the road course that we probably need to do the most work at as a team. We’ve improved our road course program significantly, but Sonoma just seems to be one we still struggle with. The repave, though, could change that. The test showed that speeds should be much higher, so we’ll see how things go in practice. I’m optimistic for how the weekend should go for the No. 24 team.”
Alex Bowman, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on racing at the newly repaved Sonoma Raceway: “It (Sonoma Raceway) is going to be completely different than what we’ve ever seen there. Going to a place that’s always been really slick, I feel like it (the track) is probably going to have a ton of grip and be a lot faster with a lot less tire fall off. It’s kind of a different style race. I think qualifying is going to be super important. Hopefully our Ally Racing team can position ourselves to fall on the right side of all that.”
Blake Harris, crew chief of the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on driver Alex Bowman racing at road courses and competing at the newly repaved Sonoma Raceway: “The fact that we are sitting top 10 in points at this point in the season is great. Our Ally Racing team just needs to go to Sonoma and have a solid weekend. We’ve had a lot of good runs and good pace at road courses this year. Really, Alex does great at these tracks (road courses). I think this weekend is kind of a reset for everybody. Not a lot of people have been on (Sonoma Raceway’s) new pavement, and we as a team need to go capitalize on that and put a full race together. We let a few extra points slip away last weekend (at WWT Raceway) with some issues that we had, so hopefully we can go get back on track and earn a good finish this Sunday.”
Toyota Racing – Martin Truex Jr. NASCAR Cup Series Quotes
SONOMA, Calif. (June 7, 2024) – Joe Gibbs Racing driver Martin Truex Jr. was made available to the media prior to practice for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Sonoma Raceway on Friday.
MARTIN TRUEX JR., No. 19 Bass Pro Shops Toyota Camry XSE, Joe Gibbs Racing
Do you think the turn 11 wall can affect racing this weekend?
“It is definitely different. We are used to having the tires down there – which at some point during the race – the tires just kind of keep getting moved back a bit, and you can use more of that paint in turn 11, which really helps you get through there. It is going to be a little bit trickier. We have seen contact in that corner, many times before, so there is not really anywhere to escape when you have a guy kind of squeezing you going in there, so it could cause some problems, we will see.”
Are you any closer to making a decision for 2025, and is Joe Gibbs Racing putting any pressure on you?
“Every week. I’m closer every week.”
How does the new pavement affect you this weekend?
“It is definitely going to be a lot different, than it’s been. I think for as long as I can remember – you would come to Sonoma and you would think, worn out track, tire wear – the approach is a lot different than it is now. Now it is really going to be, pretty much, running qualifying laps every lap with the tires that don’t really wear out, or fall off much. Totally different approach than we’ve done at Sonoma in the past, but with that being said, we tested out here – I felt good about it, and it is still the same course. New challenges, same course – and hopefully we can figure it out and go win number five here.”
Were you upset to hear about the repave and does that change your strategy for this weekend?
“I wish they didn’t. We had something really good here working, and certainly, last year, we did really well with it. I don’t know. We’ve won on both configurations of track here. I’ve won in some different race cars here, over the years, different models of cars, different generations of cars – really it is just about adapting. We tested out here and I thought it went really well, but I think this could be probably the hardest one to win – of all of them, because it is going to come down to track position, and being on the right strategy, having good pit stops – we could see a guy gamble on when to pit, and catch a caution and win the race – kind of come from nowhere. I think there is going to be more – there is more of a chance for an upset or for a guy surprising the field I think, this time around – where before, if your car was really good, you could drive through the field – simple as that. You could pass cars, on old tires, and that is going to be a challenge this time around, I feel like.”
Do you think that the top teams have to assume going in, there won’t be many yellows?
“I think you always try to plan for every possible thing that could happen. If there is no cautions, here is our game plan – and if there is, you have to change, you have to adapt and you have to try to make the right decisions in that moment. I think everybody will have a play sheet, so to speak, on what they think is going to be right and you just wait to see how it plays out, you never know – a lot can happen here. It is a narrow track, certainly narrower than COTA, and there is potential for guys getting into each other is there, so we will just see how it plays out.”
What did you think when you saw the track came up in a few places?
“Yeah, I don’t know. I was interested in seeing them. I was surprised. The track was in really good shape when we were here, and now watching on TV, Xfinity practice and I see a lot of patchwork, and a lot of things that look totally different than we were here. I think it is going to be different – no question. I don’t know what they used. Anytime, they mess with the circuit, you mess with the grip level in all of those corners – it changes a lot. You just have to get out there. Fortunately, we have a little bit of practice, and we will get a feel from that – and we have the opportunity to make some changes on the car, which we don’t normally. Hopefully, we can figure it out better than everyone else – that is all that matters. The track is the track, it is going to be the same for all of us.”
Does the changes with the addition of the wall in turn 11 affect you how you enter it?
“I think it is going to be a little different. Different visual for sure, not having just tires there, having a wall. There was always a little bit of wiggle room – you could move around there in turn 11 and find some grip, especially on the curb, and now there is less room there, I think it just depends on what the track is like. If it is really slippery down there, sometimes the curb gains grip as there is rubber put down on it and things like that. We will just have to see how things work this time around – it is definitely going to be a little bit harder to hit your marks down there, I think.”
What do you remember about your first race here at Sonoma?
“My first race here, I just remember making a big mistake qualifying. I think I went from third to second in qualifying, instead of third to fourth coming out of turn 11, and if I remember right, we had to change engines for the race, so we started in the back – had a really fast car, and passed a lot of cars, and had a lot of fun. The first time here, I fell in love with this place and always have loved it ever since. Definitely remember that day. It was a ton of fun to pass a lot of cars, and we had a good day overall.”
What is your initial goal in practice with the additional laps you got with the tire test?
“Probably not much different than everyone else, just go out there and get a feel for the track. It is a lot hotter than it was then – I’m not even sure on what tires they landed on, I know my guys have worked hard to prepare and they do a great job coming here. I look forward to getting in the car and getting warmed up and trying to find some speed. That is really what it is all about – and get ready for qualifying tomorrow. Excited for that – and see what we can do.”
Does the extra speed change braking at all?
“Yeah, a little bit. Your marks are going to be a little bit different. I think the biggest thing is just that – the tire fall off is not there, and the track is going to continue to get faster the more we run on it, and so, it is going to be different tomorrow, it is going to be different on Sunday. It is going to continue to change, and we are going to need to figure out what direction to go and what direction the track is going to go, and hopefully keep our car good all weekend.”
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 26 electrified options.
Men’s Basketball Chief of Staff VandeWettering To Ride in Fastest Seat in Sports at Road America
INDIANAPOLIS (Friday, June 7, 2024) – Marc VandeWettering, the chief of staff for men’s basketball operations at the University of Wisconsin, will ride in the Fastest Seat in Sports at the XPEL Grand Prix at Road America presented by AMR on Sunday, June 9, leading the field to the green flag of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES race.
VandeWettering was promoted to his current role in 2023 and continues to serve as the program’s director of basketball operations, a position he has held since returning to his alma mater in 2017.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, VandeWettering also will participate in the honorary role as part of INDYCAR’s Pride Month celebrations and in recognition of the importance of ongoing efforts to create a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere in the sporting world. VandeWettering also will meet two-time and reigning NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Alex Palou, whose No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda features a Pride Month-themed livery.
A 2015 graduate of the University of Wisconsin, VandeWettering served a one-year stint as the assistant director of basketball and football operations at the Big Ten. VandeWettering assisted with logistics for the 2016 Big Ten Football Championship Game, both the 2017 Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments and the 2017 Big Ten Softball Tournament.
The 2023-24 season was VandeWettering’s 11th campaign overall working with the Wisconsin men’s basketball program. He spent two years serving as the team’s program assistant, including the 2014-15 season during which the Badgers reached the 2015 national championship game.
Before taking over the program assistant duties, VandeWettering served as a student-manager for UW and took on the role of head manager in 2013-14 during Wisconsin’s Final Four run.
VandeWettering will join a long list of celebrated INDYCAR Fastest Seat in Sports passengers as he leads the field to green in a custom INDYCAR SERIES car with a special back passenger seat. This high-speed, high-octane, super-charged thrill ride already has been taken by Jon Bon Jovi, actors Judge Reinhold and Dylan Sprouse, and country music star Riley Green during the 2024 INDYCAR season.
Live coverage of the XPEL Grand Prix at Road America presented by AMR starts at 3:30 p.m. ET Sunday, June 9 on NBC, Peacock and the INDYCAR Radio Network.
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES represents the ultimate challenge in racing, with drivers competing at speeds of 200+ mph across a demanding set of ovals and road and street courses. The full schedule can be viewed here.
Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series at Sonoma Raceway… In 79 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Sonoma Raceway, Richard Childress Racing owns two victories. Dale Earnhardt claimed the first win for the organization in 1995, leading the final two laps of the race to secure the victory. Earnhardt also won the pole for that same event, the first for the Welcome, N.C.-based team. Robby Gordon won at Sonoma in 2003, leading 81 of 110 laps and holding off Jeff Gordon for the victory. One year ago, Kyle Busch led RCR with a second-place finish. RCR has racked up 15 top-five and 27 top-10 finishes since the NASCAR Cup Series made its debut at the track in 1989. The team has led 157 laps at the California road course and has completed 8,142 of a possible 8,202 laps (99.26 percent).
Welcome to the NASCAR Cup Series, Mate… Repco Supercars Championship star Will Brown is scheduled to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut with Richard Childress Racing this weekend at Sonoma Raceway. Brown is a native of Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, and will drive the No. 33 MobileX/Shaw and Partners Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
Round 2 for the NASCAR Xfinity Series in Wine Country… Austin Hill led RCR in the first-ever NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Sonoma Raceway in 2023, scoring an eighth-place finish after leading the race twice for four laps on the way to an eighth-place finish.
Catch Saturday’s Action at Sonoma Raceway… The Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 at Sonoma Raceway will be televised live on Saturday, June 10 beginning at 8 p.m. ET on FS1 and will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.
Follow Sunday’s Action at Sonoma Raceway… The Save Mart 350 at Sonoma Raceway will be televised live on Sunday, June 9 beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX and will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.
Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Get Bioethanol Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at Sonoma Raceway… Dillon has made nine previous NASCAR Cup Series starts at Sonoma Raceway, earning his best finish of 11th at the 10-turn, 1.99-mile road course in 2022. He has completed every lap he has attempted (952 of 952 laps) at the track.
Gaining Momentum… The No. 3 team enters Sonoma Raceway on the strength of earning their season-best finish of sixth at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois last Sunday. Dillon started the race 18th and quickly moved forward, earning points in both Stage 2 and Stage 3.
Delivering Performance on the Track and For the Planet… Dillon will race the Get Bioethanol Chevy at Sonoma Raceway, showcasing the performance benefits of racing with earth kind and engine-smart bioethanol blended fuel, Sunoco Green E15. Whether it’s delivering cleaner and cooler high-octane on the racetrack or a more affordable option for summer road trips, plant-based bioethanol makes a positive impact on our planet. NASCAR drivers have now officially raced 23 million NASCAR miles driven on Sunoco Green E15, a notable milestone for the environment as NASCAR’s partnership with Get Bioethanol has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent across its three national touring series while also increasing horsepower on the track. Learn more about bioethanol at getbioethanol.com.
AUSTIN DILLON QUOTE:
How do you prepare for Sonoma Raceway?
“We prepare for Sonoma Raceway by spending a lot of hours on the Chevrolet simulator. I could probably run Sonoma in my sleep. We’ve put a lot of effort into this race. I can’t wait to get there in the No. 3 Get Bioethanol Chevrolet Camaro. It’s a fun road course and the recent repave of the full course will test everyone’s setup during practice on Friday.”
Kyle Busch and the No. 8 zone Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at Sonoma Raceway… Kyle Busch will be making his 19th NASCAR Cup Series start at Sonoma Raceway this weekend. Busch has two wins at the Northern California road course, winning in 2008 and 2015. He scored a dominating victory in 2008 despite starting 30th, leading 78 of 112 laps. His average running position in the race was 5.92, the best of any driver. In 2015, Busch scored a thrilling victory, crossing the finish line .532-seconds ahead of his brother Kurt. Busch claimed his second Sonoma victory after leading 17 of 110 laps. In 2023, Busch claimed a second-place finish, his seventh top-five at Sonoma Raceway.
Stat of the Week… Busch has racked up seven top-10 finishes in his last 8 starts at Sonoma Raceway. He has scored a top-10 in 50 percent of his career starts (9 in 18 races) at the 1.990-mile road course. Since joining RCR in 2023, the Las Vegas, Nev., native has racked up five top-10 finishes in seven road/street course events, including four top-fives.
Points Update… Busch enters this weekend 17th in the NASCAR Cup Series Driver Standings, 20 points below the Playoffs cutline.
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KYLE BUSCH QUOTES:
Sonoma Raceway has been repaved for the first time in 23 years. What are some of the challenges that you expect with the new asphalt?
“I would say some of the challenges with new asphalt is the difficulty in passing. There’s going to be so much grip that it’ll be hard to find any sort of advantage over guys. There won’t be much tire fall off. I would say that a repave on a road course differs from an oval just based off of the tire and tire choice that is determined.”
Do you think the new pavement will radically change how you race at Sonoma Raceway?
“Normally at ovals they have to come out with such a hard tire and at a road course I don’t think you have to have as hard of a tire for heat reasons. I do not think the new payment will radically change anything at Sonoma because there’s still going to be pit strategy and fuel strategy involved. You’ll still run the race like a typical road course from the finish and back your strategy up from there.”
You ran really well last year at Sonoma Raceway, scoring a second-place finish at leading 17 laps. Is there anything you can take from that strong performance and apply it to this race?
“We did have a really good run last year at Sonoma, but with the track being repaved and constant change happening around the series with this new car, I don’t think anything really applies from last year specifically to this year. Obviously just having laps around Sonoma for the last 20 years is helpful.”
Will Brown and the No. 33 MobileX/Shaw and Partners Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at Sonoma Raceway… Brown, who is currently leading the Repco Supercars Championship point standings, is scheduled to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut under the helm of the No. 33 MobileX/Shaw and Partners Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing this weekend. The Australian native has prepared for this weekend through simulator time at RCR and raced with the team as recently as December in an endurance race at Circuit of the Americas as a third driver alongside Kyle Busch and Austin Dillon.
The Team Behind the Driver… Keith Rodden will be making the calls as crew chief for the No. 33 MobileX/Shaw and Partners Chevrolet.
Experience Freedom on the Track and Save Dollars in Your Wallet with MobileX… MobileX, the world’s most customizable mobile carrier, gives you the flexibility you need and savings you deserve by providing the ultimate in choice and price control for your mobile plan. MobileX will serve as the primary sponsor of Australian Supercars Champion Will Brown in his NASCAR Cup Series debut, driving the No. 33 MobileX Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. With MobileX’s smart AI technology, you can predict your data usage, saving you money on America’s most reliable 5G network.
Welcome Shaw and Partners… Shaw and Partners is Australia’s preeminent investment advice and wealth management firm focused on tailored advice and investment solutions, financial planning and corporate advisory services. They will be serving as a sponsor on the No.33 Chevrolet during Brown’s debut in Sonoma.
Complete Parts and Equipment Solutions … The No. 33 team welcomes Complete Parts and Equipment Solutions, suppliers of mining, earthmoving components and parts to the Australian mining industry to the team this weekend.
Questions, Please … Brown is scheduled to visit the Infield Media Center at Sonoma Raceway for a media availability on Friday at 12:15 p.m. Local Time.
WILL BROWN QUOTES:
How do you prepare to come to a racetrack that you’ve never seen before in a car you’ve never driven before. What kind of process do you go through to prepare to be competitive?
“This is what we do in Australia, we race road courses. When we raced in New Zealand it was a completely new track to us that we all had to learn before we got there. I learned by watching a lot of footage and looking at data before we got there. The best thing about coming over here is the ability to jump on the simulators. We don’t have that sort of infrastructure in Australia, so we don’t use simulators at this level. It’s something new to me. I spun out a few times and I thought “I hope they don’t think this is how I drive on the track.” I have to get used to it, but luckily enough I have time to get used to the simulator while I’m over here for this round. That’s probably the best way I can prepare for this Sonoma race.”
Is there anything specific to Sonoma that is similar to what you would normally run?
“Sonoma is probably similar to what we have a lot of. The elevation change at Bathurst is quite significant, but also Phillip Island is quite similar to Sonoma. They just resurfaced the track so it’s really high grip right now. I don’t think the track is foreign as far as the characteristics to it. It’s just more learning a whole new car; you get one practice and then straight into qualifying. You have to maximize those sessions to put your best foot forward.”
What is the hardest challenge coming into NASCAR?
“To be honest it’s probably learning pit lane and pit stops. I have to make sure I don’t speed in the pits. The crew running out really scares me, it looks like you’re about to run them over every time. I’m going to have to make sure I get used to that. I think I can pick up on the on-track stuff with the simulator. We always plan on my time, the execution and the things that can catch us. I think pit lane, restarts and all those little bits and pieces are things I’m going to have to learn.”
Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet Camaro SS at Sonoma Raceway… Jesse Love has made one career stock car start at Sonoma Raceway, driving in the ARCA Menards Series West event in 2021. The current Sunoco Rookie of the Year points leader started from the eighth position before a mechanical issue forced an early exit from the race.
Coming Home… This weekend’s event at Sonoma Raceway marks a California homecoming for Love. The 19-year-old is native of Menlo Park – a short one-hour drive from the 1.99-mile asphalt facility.
About Whelen Engineering… Whelen Engineering is a family-owned company with a pioneering spirit and a passion to protect the lives of those who protect and serve others. The company mission is to provide industry-defining safety solutions around the world, while creating a community of problem-solvers who are inspired to push boundaries and continue our legacy of delivering ground-breaking innovation. As a global leader in the emergency warning industry, Whelen has been trusted to perform since 1952, when George Whelen III invented the first rotating aviation beacon. Whelen now encompasses two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Connecticut and New Hampshire with over 750,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing space and the largest design staff in the industry. Every part of every Whelen product is proudly designed and manufactured in America. We embrace quality as our foundation, we celebrate innovative engineering in every product we produce.
Meet Love… On Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m. PT, Love and his Richard Childress Racing teammate Austin Hill are scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Trailer in the Midway at Sonoma Raceway. Stop by to meet the home state young gun and purchase new No. 2 gear before the green flag waves.
JESSE LOVE QUOTES:
What are your thoughts heading into Sonoma Raceway, coming off the first of back-to-back road course events?
“Our Whelen team really needs to rebound off our run at Portland International Raceway last week. It was overall a bad race for our group, but during the last few months, we have made huge gains. Our finishes might not show it – with power steering issues at Charlotte Motor Speedway, a flat tire at Dover Motor Speedway – but we are making improvements. At Dover, we had a top-three car. At Darlington, we showed speed. At Charlotte, we made the biggest gains, because I felt like it was the first time that we could have won on our speed alone during the race. The biggest key for this weekend at Sonoma Raceway is to have a solid run for our team morale and to feel good about our road course package going into the Playoffs.”
What do you like or dislike about Sonoma Raceway?
“Sonoma Raceway is a place that I know really well, and having attended races there as I was growing up brings a certain comfort level. The grip level helps me personally. I am a high grip type of driver, which is typically why I qualify well and have solid races at fast tracks. With Team Chevy drivers (specifically Ross Chastain) participating in the tire test earlier this year on the repave surface, I am able to lean on their advice heading into the weekend. The track itself is unique, which I appreciate as a driver.”
Austin Hill and the No. 21 Bennett Transportation and Logistics Chevrolet Camaro SS at Sonoma Raceway… Austin Hill has made one career start at Sonoma Raceway, driving the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in last season’s inaugural NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the California road course circuit. The Winston, Georgia native completed all 79 laps in route to an eighth-place finish.
About Bennett Family of Companies… McDonough-Ga. based Bennett Family of Companies is a woman-owned, Women’s Enterprise Business Council (WBENC) certified, diversified transportation and logistics company. Through its 14 affiliated operating companies, the Bennett Family of Companies delivers integrated transportation and supply chain management solutions worldwide. Bennett has 4,625 drivers/owner-operators, over 1,000 employees and 600 agents located across the United States. For more information, visit www.bennettig.com.
Meet Hill… On Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m. PT, Hill and his Richard Childress Racing teammate Jesse Love are scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Trailer in the Midway at Sonoma Raceway. Stop by to purchase your new No. 21 gear and get items signed by the 30-year-old driver.
AUSTIN HILL QUOTE:
Do you have to prepare differently mentally or physically for a road course, regardless of if you have raced there in the past or not?
“The biggest thing for me is watching a lot of videos. I print out a track map that has all of the corner numbers listed and study it. When you get out on the track during practice and need to the tell the team a certain corner, say Turn 7 that you are having trouble with, you need to know the corner numbers all around. I put it in the memory bank and try to memorize the corner numbers at a certain track. It’s important to know that information when you need to communicate with your crew chief and team to make your car better in a short amount of time. I also try to watch in car camera footage to see how much curbing other guys are using or not using through certain corners and where brake marks are since every corner is different and you’ll be braking a different spot for each turn. Visually, a lot more goes into road course racing than your normal oval track.”
Set to race the No. 66 AutoNation / Arctic Wolf Honda for remainder of INDYCAR Season
Pataskala, Ohio (7 June 2024) – David Malukas will race in the Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) No. 66 AutoNation / Arctic Wolf Honda for for the remainder of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season starting with the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey on June 23. Ahead of his debut race with the team, Malukas will gain experience with MSR at the test at Milwaukee Speedway on June 11th.
Meyer Shank Racing will look to build momentum with the No. 66 AutoNation / Arctic Wolf Honda entry, which will be driven in this weekend’s Xpel Grand Prix at Road America by Helio Castroneves.
“This whole process has been extremely difficult on myself and (team co-owner) Jim Meyer,” said Mike Shank. “There were so many things for us to consider as we need to do everything we can to make up ground in the championship and Leader Circle standings. We are pleased to have David (Malukas) join us as he has both experience and potential and we are looking forward to having him start with us in Milwaukee for the test and then go racing with him at Laguna.”
Malukas had his 2024 plans change following a pre-season training injury, and the young American-Lithuanian racer is eager to open the next chapter in his INDYCAR career with MSR.
“I am extremely grateful to Jim Meyer, Mike Shank and the entire Meyer Shank Racing team for the opportunity to finish out the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season,” said Malukas. “Despite setbacks earlier this year, I have been diligently focusing on my recovery, putting in the necessary effort and dedication to get back to peak condition. I am ready and excited to be back in the car, aiming to make the most of this chance and deliver strong performances for the team and our supporters. This opportunity means a great deal to me, and I am determined to repay the faith shown in me with my best efforts on the track.”
Meyer Shank Racing thanks Tom Blomqvist for his efforts through the first six INDYCAR events and the Brit remains a part of the MSR family.
Meyer Shank Racing heads to Road America this weekend with Felix Rosenqvist (No. 60 AutoNation / SiriusXM Honda) currently ninth in the championship points standings. Castroneves will sub one again in the No. 66 AutoNation / Arctic Wolf Honda for the Road America weekend.
Team goes into Rounds 10/11/12 at the fan favorite course as championship contenders
Elkhart Lake, Wis. (June 7, 2024) – Turn 3 Motorsport is back on track at the 4.014-mile, 14-turn road course of Road America this weekend for Rounds 10/11/12 of the USF Pro 2000 Championship Presented by Continental Tire. Along with the USF Pro 2000 series, the fan favorite Grand Prix of Road America will be headlined by the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and will also feature the USF2000 Championship, INDYNXT, and Radical Cup North America series for a packed weekend of racing.
Turn 3 Motorsport had an excellent weekend at Road America last year, topping every test and official practice session and earning a pole position, race win, and additional podium with current INDYNXT drivers Michael d’Orlando and Jonathan Browne, setting the bar high for the three race weekend this year.
The team goes into the race weekend just one point away from the championship lead with driver Lochie Hughes and is looking to score some valuable points to increase the tally during the triple header round.
3 Danny Dyszelski // USF Pro 2000
Vera Guitars / Formula Imports / Charlotte Mechanical
“I am ready to go racing at Road America this weekend,” said Dyszelski. “I always really enjoy racing at this track, so I’ve been looking forward to this event on the calendar. We have been strong in testing here as well, so I expect myself to perform and hopefully bring home another podium for myself and the team.”
33 Tyke Durst // USF Pro 2000
FHI / Relay Payments / Drive Toward a Cure
“I am just happy to reset my season and have some fun at our home race at Road America this weekend,” said Durst. “Elkhart Lake is such a fantastic venue with great fans and even better food. Our plan this weekend is simply to learn as much as we can and build some momentum for the rest of the year.”
44 Lochie Hughes // USF Pro 2000
The McGinley Group / Private Wealth Planning / Grip Auto Timepieces
“I’m really excited to be racing at Road America this weekend,” said Hughes. “It’s probably my favorite track on the calendar, and we’ve been quick here in testing ahead of the event. I can’t wait to get racing and hopefully score a lot more championship points this weekend.”
68 Ethan Ho // USF Pro 2000
Fubon Bank / Triple S / KRC / Molecule / JiuZhou
“I am looking forward to racing this weekend at Road America,” said Ho. “After a tough run at the last round, I am looking to rebound and turn our luck around going into the midway point of the season. I was really happy with the testing we did here before this weekend, so my goal is to keep learning and improving and hopefully come away with some strong results.” This weekend’s events kicked off yesterday for the USF Pro 2000 series with pre-event testing where Lochie Hughes ended up the quickest driver of the day. On track activity will continue today with an official practice and two qualifying sessions followed by two races tomorrow and one race on Sunday.
Live video coverage will be available on the USF Pro Championships app and YouTube channels throughout the weekend. To stay up to date on Turn 3 Motorsport, follow the team on social media using the handle @turn3motorsport.
For more information or images, please contact Mandy Dempsey at turn3motorsport@gmail.com.
Friday, June 7 8:40-9:10am – USF Pro 2000 Practice 10:45-11:15am – USF Pro 2000 Qualifying 1 1:00-1:30pm – USF Pro 2000 Qualifying 2
Saturday, June 8 8:00-8:40am – USF Pro 2000 Race 1 4:10-4:50pm – USF Pro 2000 Race 2
Sunday, June 9 10:00-10:50am – USF Pro 2000 Race 3
All times CST. About Turn 3 Motorsport: Turn 3 Motorsport is a full-service operation specializing in racecar preparation, engineering, and driver development. Founded and managed by racecar driver and coach Peter Dempsey, T3M is focused on professional service, team member growth, and high-level performance across multiple racing series.
In 2019, the team secured the Blue Marble Cocktails Radical Cup North America championship titles in the 1340cc, 1500cc, and overall classes. Later that year, Peter and Turn 3 Motorsport achieved a record-breaking win at the NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill endurance race, piloting the #10 Eastern Racing / Turn 3 Motorsport Radical SR3 RSX 1340 to a dominating win, leading 638 out of 672 laps, and becoming the first car under two liters to achieve the overall win.
In the team’s rookie season, Turn 3 Motorsport attracted attention out of the gate by winning the season opener of the 2020 Indy Pro 2000 Championship Presented by Cooper Tires in a sweeping performance with Singaporean driver Danial Frost. Frost and the team went on to achieve a pole position, six podium finishes, and third overall in the championship in 2020.
In 2021, T3M expanded its presence in the Road to Indy by introducing a two-car program into the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship alongside its Indy Pro 2000 Championship campaign. In its debut USF2000 season, the team found victory at the season finale with American driver Josh Green as well as earning an additional podium and fifth overall in the championship. The team earned further accolades in the Indy Pro 2000 series with a race win at the season finale by Irish driver James Roe as well as a pole position at World Wide Technology Raceway and seventh overall in the championship.
In 2022, T3M showed its strength and teamwork by achieving a podium, win, and/or pole at 7 of the 9 events on the Road to Indy calendar with rookie drivers Josh Green, Jonathan Browne, and Christian Weir each earning the aforementioned results across two different series (USF2000 and Indy Pro 2000).
In 2023, T3M tied for the most amount of wins in the USF Pro 2000 season with drivers Michael d’Orlando and Christian Brooks earning a total of five wins for the team. The team also earned seven pole positions, the most of any other team, and finished second overall in the Team Championship.
Production of all-new 2025 CR-V e:FCEV fuel cell electric vehicle begins at Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, OH – the only FCEV made in America
Honda experience with fuel cell vehicles spans over 20 years starting with the 2003 Honda FCX, the world’s first zero-emission fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) to receive government certification
MARYSVILLE, Ohio, June 7, 2024 – (JCN Newswire) – Honda today celebrated the start of production of the all-new 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Ohio. The all-new CR-V e:FCEV is the only FCEV made in America, as well as the first production1 hydrogen FCEV in the United States to combine an all-new U.S.-made fuel cell system with plug-in EV charging capability. A fun-to-drive compact CUV, the CR-V e:FCEV received a 270-mile EPA driving range rating, combining the fuel cell system with plug-in charging to provide up to 29 miles2 of EV driving around town with the flexibility of fast hydrogen refueling for longer trips.
“The Performance Manufacturing Center was conceived as a small volume manufacturing facility with a focus on craftsmanship, and I’m proud of how our production technicians leveraged their experience building the Acura NSX to take on the challenge of making this all-new Honda CR-V e:FCEV,” said Patrick McIntyre, lead of PMC. “Producing a zero-emission fuel cell electric vehicle is one more step toward Honda’s global goal of achieving carbon neutrality for our products and operations.”
In addition to producing the Honda CR-V e:FCEV in America, the next gen fuel cell system that powers it is also made in the U.S. at Fuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC, in Brownstown, Michigan – the joint venture production facility established by Honda and General Motors (GM). The new fuel cell system was co-developed by Honda and GM, achieving higher efficiency and increased refinement, with durability performance doubled and cost reduced by two-thirds compared to the previous fuel cell system in the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell.
PMC Innovations for CR-V e:FCEV Production
Production technicians at PMC navigated several challenges related to new production equipment and processes to effectively transition from building the Acura NSX supercar to the Honda CR-V e:FCEV. Following is a look at several of these key initiatives.
New components:
PMC technicians are taking on multiple new assembly processes specific to producing a vehicle powered by both a fuel cell system and a plug-in EV battery, requiring multiple connections for the vehicle’s two power sources and the Power Supply Connector that can provide electrical power for various external devices. These include:
Sub-assembly of two hydrogen tanks, attaching high pressure piping and other parts and then installing the tanks in the vehicle
Compressing hydrogen to 10,000 PSI via a new onsite station used to fill the CR-V e:FCEV hydrogen fuel tanks
Installation of the fuel-cell system along with connecting high pressure piping and wiring
Sub-assembly and installation of the under-floor battery
New Weld System:
Transitioning to the CR-V e:FCEV required a complete transformation of the Weld Department, from a highly-automated welding system created for an aluminum spaceframe to a multi-material unibody construction.
The previous robotic weld system was removed and replaced with new steel welding robots which were installed with characteristics of a traditional weld system but are unique from mass production plants with a flexible fixture system that rolls around on a track.
PMC technicians also now perform some manual MIG welding to apply welds that are difficult for robots to reach to attach closure parts for the doors, hood and tailgate.Paint System Modifications:
The larger and heavier all-steel body of the CR-V e:FCEV requires a different corrosion protection application process than the smaller, all-aluminium Acura NSX.
The CR-V e:FCEV marks the first application in Honda North America of zirconium to a mixed metal, uni-body, and utilizes the same high-appearance paint coating as the NSX. The E-coat dip tank was designed for the smaller surface area of the NSX spaceframe, not a full frame vehicle like CR-V with more surface area inside. So, engineers had to modify the dip tank to enable the CUV body shape to enter at a 38-degree angle, steeper than the 15-degree angle for NSX. More precise control of the E-coat pumps also was required for CR-V, to create higher circulation of the E-coat to cover the surface area inside the frame.
Following e-coating, but prior to application of the final paint finish, sealer is applied to prevent water leaks. The CR-V body is mounted on a rotisserie, but unlike the previous equipment arm used to turn the lighter NSX spaceframe, a more robust arm that can maintain stability of the heavier CR-V steel frame is used to turn the frame on its side. This enables associates to manually apply sealer similar to the application for the NSX.
Production of the FCEV at the PMC also is laying the groundwork for production of battery-electric vehicles at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio from the standpoint of software for the Integrated Power Unit (IPU).
Video of these manufacturing innovations can be found here.
CR-V e:FCEV Product Highlights
The Honda CR-V is America’s best-selling CUV of the past quarter century, and the CR-V e:FCEV builds on that foundation to deliver top class cabin space, cargo capacity and power.
Honda engineers optimized CR-V e:FCEV’s steering and suspension tuning to deliver the same sporty driving experience and class-leading refinement as turbo and hybrid-powered CR-V models.
Moreover, the driver can customize the driving experience of the CR-V e:FCEV with selectable drive modes, including EV modes to maximize efficiency and a Sport mode to prioritize acceleration and responsiveness.
Refueling with hydrogen takes about the same time as filling a tank with gasoline. Recharging the Honda CR-V e:FCEV takes just 1.8-hours using a level 2 charger and adds up to 29 miles of battery-powered range for short trips around town.
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV also features the Honda Power Supply Connector, turning the CUV into a clean power source capable of running small home appliances, power tools or camping equipment, as well as charging the new Honda Motocompacto e-scooter.
Honda has identified four core domains for the utilization of its fuel cell system. In addition to fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV), the Honda hydrogen business strategy includes commercial vehicles, stationary power stations and construction machinery. Honda is engaged in collaboration with other companies in pursuit of these business opportunities.
Honda recently debuted a Class 8 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Truck Concept powered by three Honda fuel cell systems to showcase the start of a new demonstration project aimed at future production of fuel cell-powered products for the North American market.
Honda also began demonstration testing of a stationary fuel cell power station on its Torrance, Calif. campus in March 2023, marking the company’s first step toward future commercialization of zero-emission backup power generation.
Honda also is looking at the application of its fuel cell system to equipment such as excavators and wheel loaders, which account for a large segment of the construction machinery market.
Honda Electrification Strategy
Honda has a vision to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of its new vehicle sales by 2040. Toward this goal, Honda is establishing its “Honda EV Hub” in Ohio where the company will begin production of EVs in North America. Honda also recently announced plans to build a comprehensive EV value chain in Canada with an approximate investment of USD$11 billion, to strengthen its EV supply system and capability to prepare for a future increase in EV demand in North America. It is the role of the Honda EV Hub in Ohio to establish the expertise and experience for EV production that will be shared across the Honda production network in North America, including the EV value chain initiative in Canada.
Moreover, each Honda auto production facility in North America has a critical role to play in Honda’s electrified future. Even as Honda accelerates preparation for EV production, the company plans to sustain current ICE and hybrid-electric vehicle production to meet continued strong customer demand. The sales growth of ICE and hybrid-electric vehicles also will support the required investment in the electrified future.
Importantly, Honda expects to maintain employment stability across all locations during these key next steps in the transition to the electrified future.
Using domestic and globally sourced parts
EPA-estimated 29-mile all-electric driving range when fully charged. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual range will vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age & condition, loading, use and maintenance.
Honda Manufacturing in America
Honda has been producing automobiles in America for over 40 years, beginning in November 1982 with the start of automobile production at the Marysville Auto Plant.
In 2022, more than two-thirds of all Honda and Acura automobiles sold in the U.S. were made in America, using domestic and globally sourced parts. Honda’s cumulative auto production in America now exceeds 30 million vehicles.
Honda established manufacturing operations in America in 1979 with the start of motorcycle production in Marysville, Ohio, and today has one of the largest and most diverse U.S. manufacturing footprints of any international company. More than 23,000 U.S. associates support the company’s 12 manufacturing plants in America, supporting operations that have an annual capacity of more than 1.27 million automobiles, 1.52 million engines, 500,000 power equipment products and 300,000 powersports products, as well as the HondaJet advanced light jet and GE Honda HF120 turbofan engines.
Cumulatively, Honda has invested $19 billion in its U.S. manufacturing operations, including more than $3.6 billion over the past five years alone. The company also works with 600 U.S. original equipment suppliers, with U.S.-sourced parts purchases of approximately $492 billion since 1979.
Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR Xfinity Series Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway | Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250
Fast Facts No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Team: Driver: Leland Honeyman Jr. Primary Partner(s): Young’s Building Systems | Randco Industries Inc. Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro Crew Chief: Andrew Abbott 2024 Driver Points Position: 21st 2024 Owner Points Position: 23rd Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing
Movin’ on Up!: In January, Young’s Motorsports announced it would graduate from the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series to the NASCAR Xfinity Series full-time in 2024 with rising star Leland Honeyman Jr. behind the wheel of the team’s No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro for the entire 33-race season continuing with Saturday afternoon’s Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway.
About Leland: The Phoenix, Ariz. native began honing his racing skills at the tender age of two racing Quads. By four years old, he moved into Trophy Karts and then collected three series championships in off-road racing Trophy Karts.
After an instrumental tenure in Go Karts, he moved into the Bandolero competition in 2015 and was crowned a Bandolero National Champion two years later. From there, he moved into Limited Late Models before graduating to the Carolina Pro Late Model Series division in 2021, where he earned championship-runner-up honors and picked up an astounding victory in the annual Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway Fall Brawl.
Honeyman, 19, returns to the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization, where he ran an impressive ARCA Menards Series East Series campaign, finishing third in the 2022 championship standings.
During the 2023 season, he made eight NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, highlighted by a 21st-place finish at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Road Course.
All-Aboard!: For the 14th of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races this season, Young’s Motorsports welcomes back Texas-based Young’s Building Systems and Randco will partner with the Mooresville, N.C.-based team as the primary partners on the No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro for the 79-lap race on Saturday afternoon.
Since 1981, Young’s Building Systems has been providing West Texas with all their metal building needs. This family-owned and operated business has become an industry favorite due to the experience gained and the professional results completed. Young’s Building System is a division of Randco Industries, Inc. We have expanded into a company that has the ability to erect any type of building, from a small single story to a city high-rise.
Our customers have multiple uses for our buildings, including commercial, residential, agricultural, industrial, skid-mounted buildings and compressor station buildings.
We also have a team that specializes in stairs and railings of all shapes and sizes. Young’s Building Systems is fully insured for your peace of mind, so we carry workmen’s compensation and general liability coverage that goes above and beyond State requirements.
Our company is fully equipped with moving and lifting equipment along with compressors, generators and welding equipment. We have the tools and equipment needed to support large, demanding projects. Our work ethic is based on the principles of quality, promptness, and customer experience.
Young’s Building Systems continuously raises our standard of excellence and works hard to make sure that each and every one of your needs are met.
Leland Honeyman Jr. NASCAR Xfinity Series Sonoma Raceway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 will mark Honeyman’s inaugural Xfinity Series start at the 1.99-mile road course, nestled in the southern Sonoma Mountains of Sonoma County, California.
This weekend’s third Xfinity Series road course race of the season will mark Honeyman’s sixth career road course start since 2023.
Leland Honeyman Jr. NASCAR Xfinity Career Stats: Entering Sonoma, Honeyman has 21 career NASCAR Xfinity Series races to his credit, earning a career-best fourth-place finish at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway after starting 33rd in the Ag-Pro 300 for Young’s Motorsports in April 2024.
Since 2023, he has carried an average finish of 23.3.
Portland International Raceway | Pacific Automation 147 Race Recap: In the 13th race of the 2024 Xfinity Series season, Young’s Motorsports and Honeyman searched for another solid finish in the team’s inaugural trip to Portland, Oregon.
Qualifying on speed in the 32nd position last Saturday morning, Honeyman battled throughout the race and utilized track position and determination to climb through the field.
Continuing to progress in his second Xfinity Series start at Portland International Raceway, Honeyman found himself on the verge of entering the top-10 late in the race. While battling for his second Xfinity Series top-10 finish of the season, an overaggressive driver turned the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro on the final lap of the race.
The untimely spin dropped Honeyman in the running over the final 1.967-mile of the race with the Xfinity Series rookie taking the checkered flag in a frustrating 26th position.
Calling the Shots: Guiding Honeyman Jr. as crew chief of the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro is longtime crew chief Andrew Abbott.
On Saturday, he will be crew chief in his 111th NASCAR Xfinity Series race. In his previous 110 races, he has four top-five and 12 top-10 finishes.
The season’s 14th race will be his first tango in Wine Country as crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ first NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Sonoma Raceway.
However, the team participated in the 2022 Door Dash 250 with three NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series entries with a track-best finish of 14th with Cup Series driver Kaz Grala at the helm.
Additionally, the team registered a 17th-place finish, with former Daytona 500 winner Austin Dillon and former Young’s Motorsports driver Spencer Boyd registering a 23rd-place effort in the 36-truck field.
Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series History: Since entering the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2024, the Mooresville, N.C. – based organization has logged 13 starts and maintains an average starting position of 27.5 and an average finish of 22.0.
Follow on Social Media: For more on Leland Honeyman Jr., please visit LelandHoneymanRacing.com, like him on Facebook (Leland Honeyman Racing) and follow on Instagram (@lelandhoneymanjr) and X |Twitter (@lelandhoneyman3).
For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).
Leland Honeyman Jr. Pre-Race Quote:
On Sonoma Raceway: “After an almost great run at Portland last weekend, I’m very excited to head into Sonoma weekend with it being another road course.
“We showed amazing speed this past weekend and we are ready to double it this weekend!”
Race Information:
The Zip Buy Now, Pay Later 250 (79 laps | 156.95 miles) is the 14th of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2024 schedule. An extended practice begins on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 1:05 – 1:55 p.m. Qualifying is set for race day, Saturday, June 8 from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. with the 38-car field set to take the green flag later in the day shortly after 5:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m. ET) with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the Performance Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (Pacific).
