As AJ Allmendinger prepares for his 500th NASCAR Cup Series start at Sonoma Raceway, the Kaulig Racing veteran isn’t focused on the milestone. Instead, he’s focused on getting better. From studying Shane van Gisbergen’s road-course approach to earning praise from teammate Ty Dillon, Allmendinger’s career continues to be defined by growth, perspective and an unwavering commitment to improvement.

Photo: Eric Thompson/Shamboozled Photography

Sonoma Raceway will posthumously induct two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Busch into its Wall of Fame on Sunday, honoring one of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR history and one of the road course's most successful competitors.

“We said from the start this is more than a race, this is a mission,” NASCAR Chief Operating Officer Ben Kennedy said following Sunday’s race. “I think we all looked around the room today and we said mission has been accomplished.”

Credit: SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 21: Corey Heim, driver of the #67 Mobil 1/O'Reilly Auto Parts Toyota, celebrates after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Anduril 250 at Naval Base Coronado on June 21, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images) Editor’s Note: This story was provided by NASCAR Wire Service and has been published with permission. It has been edited for Racing Refresh style and formatting. June 21, 2026 By Reid Spencer NASCAR Wire Se

Credit: SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 19: Layne Riggs, driver of the #34 Mattermost Ford, celebrates with a burnout after winning the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Navy 250 at Naval Base Coronado on June 19, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images) be