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- Hendrick Motorsports Celebrating 40th Anniversary Season in 2024
Press Release | HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 15, 2024) – In a press conference today at Daytona International Speedway, Hendrick Motorsports announced several public-facing initiatives to commemorate its 40th anniversary season in NASCAR. The yearlong ruby anniversary celebration will include special paint schemes, fan events, a line of Chevrolet Camaro street cars and more. Founded by NASCAR Hall of Fame owner Rick Hendrick in 1984, Hendrick Motorsports is the winningest team in Cup Series history with all-time records of 301 points-paying race victories and 14 championships. The organization holds every major statistical record at NASCAR’s top level, including pole positions, top-10 finishes, top-fives and laps led. Hendrick Motorsports Stats and Facts Hendrick Motorsports Timeline “When I think back on our story, I have a hard time believing it myself,” Hendrick said. “In 1984, we had five employees, 5,000 square feet of rented space and a lot of desire to make it work. I dreamed of one day winning a race, but I never imagined it would grow into what it is now. Every bit of success we’ve had is due to the contributions of our people and the incredible support we’ve received over 40 years. We’re here because of the commitment, the passion and the sacrifices made by so many. “It’s been an incredible ride, and we’re just getting started.” With drivers Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, William Byron and Alex Bowman, Hendrick Motorsports will seek a record-tying ninth DAYTONA 500 win on Sunday (2:30 p.m. ET on FOX). It will mark nearly 40 years to the day since the team made its debut on Feb. 19, 1984, in “The Great American Race.” RUBY RED CARS AT MARTINSVILLE In the eighth race of the 1984 season at Martinsville Speedway, driver Geoff Bodine recorded Hendrick Motorsports’ first Cup Series win, which kept owner Hendrick from shutting down the fledgling team. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of that key victory, today Hendrick Motorsports unveiled four ruby red paint schemes it will field April 7 at Martinsville – the eighth race of 2024: · Larson’s No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 · Elliott’s No. 9 UniFirst Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 · Byron’s No. 24 Axalta Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 · Bowman’s No. 48 Ally Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 In addition, Chevrolet surprised Hendrick by naming him the honorary pace car driver for the spring race, and the track announced Bodine and nine-time Martinsville Speedway winner Jeff Gordon as the event’s grand marshals. Hendrick Motorsports has fielded only Chevrolet race cars in the Cup Series since it was established and has 28 Cup-level victories at Martinsville, which is the all-time record for team wins at a single track. Today, Martinsville Speedway also announced a special ticket offer to Hendrick Motorsports fans, which is one of several initiatives by the track to celebrate the team’s 40th anniversary during its April race weekend. For the April 7 NASCAR Cup Series race, discounted adult tickets are available at $40 and youth tickets (12 and under) at just $10. The offer expires March 1. 40 YEARS, 40 CAMAROS, ONE BIG WINNER In 2024, a limited line of Hendrick Motorsports 40th Anniversary Edition Chevrolet Camaro street cars will be sold exclusively through select Hendrick Automotive Group Chevrolet dealerships . Prepared at Hendrick Motorsports, the vehicles will feature the radiant red tintcoat color, a custom graphics package, 40th anniversary branding and a unique owner’s kit with an invitation for a behind-the-scenes tour of the team’s facilities. Only 40 of the cars will be produced by Hendrick Motorsports. In addition, a lucky fan will drive home one of the special cars thanks to a pair of the team’s partners. With the Ally “Win Your Wheels” sweepstakes fueled by HendrickCars.com , people can enter to win a Hendrick Motorsports 40th Anniversary Edition Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE by visiting the Ally Fan Zone at Daytona International Speedway and other select tracks. An entry can also be submitted online at Ally.com/sweepstakes/nascar . The promotion launched today and will end Sept. 20. HENDRICK HOMECOMING As Hendrick Motorsports gears up for the grueling Coca-Cola 600 at its home track of Charlotte Motor Speedway and the team’s inaugural appearance in the storied Indianapolis 500, the organization will host “Hendrick Homecoming,” a free 40th anniversary fan event on its campus in Concord, North Carolina, over Memorial Day weekend. On May 24-25, Hendrick Motorsports will offer appearances and autograph sessions with current and past drivers, crew chiefs and other personalities from the team’s history. The all-ages, family-friendly event will include food trucks, displays, games, giveaways, live music and more. Official information will be available at HendrickMotorsports.com/homecoming and via the team’s official social media accounts. 40 YEARS IN THE BOOK In September 2024, publisher Motorbooks will launch “Hendrick Motorsports: 40 Years,” the only officially licensed book commemorating the 40th anniversary of the 14-time Cup Series champions. Authored by veteran auto racing writer Ben White and illustrated with images from top NASCAR photographer Nigel Kinrade, the retrospective will include 40 different stories from the team’s history. “Hendrick Motorsports: 40 Years” is currently available for pre-order at the Hendrick Motorsports online store and other book retailers. HALL OF FAME EXHIBIT The NASCAR Hall of Fame today announced it will introduce a special Hendrick Motorsports 40th anniversary exhibit in 2024. Details of the display will be shared at a later date. The NASCAR Hall of Fame has enshrined 13 people with ties to Hendrick Motorsports, including team owner Hendrick in 2017, four-time Cup Series champion and current vice chairman Gordon in 2019, and most recently seven-time champions Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus in 2024. Past inductees Dale Earnhardt Jr. (2021), Ray Evernham (2018), Ron Hornaday Jr. (2018), Terry Labonte (2016), Mark Martin (2017), Benny Parsons (2017), Tony Stewart (2020), Darrell Waltrip (2012) and Waddell Wilson (2020) all have Hendrick Motorsports connections. GEAR UP Officially licensed apparel and merchandise inspired by Hendrick Motorsports’ 40th anniversary are available via the team’s online store and at its museum located in Concord.
- The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series™ Revs Up for the 2024 Season
Press Release | NASCAR CRAFTSMAN TRUCK SERIES TOWSON, Md., Feb. 14, 2024 – This week, Stanley Black & Decker’s (NYSE:SWK) iconic CRAFTSMAN® brand is gearing up for the start of the 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series™ season at Daytona International Speedway. CRAFTSMAN is celebrating its second season as the title sponsor, after serving as the series’ title sponsor from its inception in 1995 through 2008. This season, fans can score deals on featured CRAFTSMAN tools with the return of Deal of the Race™ and participate in an interactive exhibit at the Daytona International Speedway’s Midway Zone, where they can meet several CRAFTSMAN Truck Series drivers including Ben Rhodes, Steward Friesen, Nick Sanchez and Grant Enfinger. “We are gearing up for an exciting 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series™ season with action-packed racing and unforgettable moments,” said Tony Merritt, Vice President of Sponsorships for Stanley Black & Decker. “This season the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will offer fans a truly immersive experience that captures the energy, excitement and passion of racing.” The Deal of the Race™ Returns: Discounts for CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series Fans Throughout the 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series™ season, CRAFTSMAN® will offer different Deal of the Race™ promotions during Truck Series events. Fans can score deals on featured CRAFTSMAN® tools live as they watch their favorite NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series drivers battle to the finish line or through CRAFTSMAN® social media channels. During FS1 and FOX race broadcasts a QR code will be displayed on screen during CRAFTSMAN® ads, directing fans to purchase the featured tool at a special discount. The first CRAFTSMAN® Deal of the Race™ promotion features a 61 pc. 3/8-In Drive Mechanics Tool Set which includes CRAFTSMAN’s new Low Profile Ratchet that has up to a 25% thinner head* that helps deliver greater access in confined spaces (CMMT45161L) now for $49.98 (originally $74.98). Estimated retail prices. Offer available from Feb. 1 – April 30, 2024, at Lowe’s and Ace Hardware stores and online (US only). For more information, visit craftsman.com/dealoftherace. CRAFTSMAN® Fan Experience CRAFTSMAN® will host an interactive exhibit in Daytona International Speedway’s Midway Zone from Feb. 14 – 18. The CRAFTSMAN® exhibit will showcase various CRAFTSMAN® products from outdoor and storage solutions to power and hand tools, as well as display a CRAFTSMAN® branded show truck. Visitors can participate in interactive demos and giveaways, meet with several CRAFTSMAN™ Truck Series drivers and have the chance to be upgraded to VIP tickets for the Friday, Feb. 16 race. NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series™ Driver Visits Schedule: Thursday, February 15 3:30 – 3:45 PM ET – Ben Rhodes 3:45 – 4:00 PM ET – Stewart Friesen Friday, February 16 1:00 – 1:15 PM ET – Nick Sanchez 1:15 – 1:30 PM ET – Grant Enfinger Catch the first race of the 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series on FS1 this Friday, Feb. 16 at 7:30PM ET or listen live on MRN and SiriusXM radio. Follow @CRAFTSMAN on Facebook and Instagram for more information and special moments from the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series. 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series™ Schedule: *1/4” DR and 3/8” DR Only – As Compared To CMMT81747, CMMT81748, & CMMT81749
- NASCAR for Beginners - Daytona 500 Qualifying
By Adam Carabine If you’re newer to NASCAR, learning the ins and outs of the sport can seem overwhelming at times. This series is designed to help out with some of the complicated parts that come along with watching and enjoying NASCAR. This week, let’s take a look at Qualifying for the Daytona 500, which has a different procedure than any other race throughout the NASCAR season. The Cup Series has a field limit of 40 cars per race. Regardless of where they qualify, there are also 36 regular full-time entries guaranteed to make each race, which are referred to as charters. For some prestigious events such as the Daytona 500, you may have more entries than spots available on the track, and therefore you may have some entries that fail to qualify for the big race. The Daytona 500 starts with a single-car qualifying session - this takes place on the Wednesday evening before race day. Every single entry (including both charters and open entries) will take a lap around Daytona. The 10 fastest will then move on to a second round of qualifying, where they get another chance to set the fastest lap they can. Whoever runs the fastest lap in that second round will be crowned the pole-sitter for the Daytona 500. The second-fastest will start beside them on the front row. The remaining drivers who did not finish in the top-2 will then compete in the “Bluegreen Vacation Duels,” which will take place on Thursday night. The cars are separated into two fields. One duel features all of the cars who qualified in EVEN positions, and the other one has all of the ODD positioned qualifiers. The duel races are each 60 laps (150 miles), and finishing positions will help to set the final Daytona 500 starting grid. Even though the top two qualifiers from Wednesday night are locked into the front row, there is reason for them to join in the duels as well, as the top 10 finishing positions also receive points (10 pts for 1st, 9 for 2nd, etc.). Other than the two who are locked into the front row, one duel sets the starting order of the INSIDE line, while the other one will set the order for the OUTSIDE line. Because the 36 charters are guaranteed their spot in the Daytona 500, things get a little trickier for the “open” cars. The highest finishing open car in each duel will earn a spot in the big race (bringing the field up to 38 cars, and leaving two more open spots). The final two spots go to the two open cars who have yet to qualify, and were the fastest at Wednesday’s qualifying session. This rounds out the field to 40, and unfortunately for the rest of the entries, their Daytona adventure is done here. It might seem confusing, and maybe overly complicated just to set the lineup for the biggest race of the year, but it’s also an opportunity for fans to get their first look at their favourite teams and drivers.
- AdventHealth Renews Sponsorship of Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway
Press Release | DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 13, 2024) – Daytona International Speedway and AdventHealth will extend their partnership through the 2028 season, building upon their presenting sponsorship of the season-opening Speedweeks. “AdventHealth has been a founding partner at Daytona International Speedway since 2015 and it brings me joy that we are continuing to collaborate with an amazing health care group who has the health and wellness of our fans in mind with this partnership,” said Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher. “Speedweeks is truly a special time for all our fans and employees here, and I’m excited to celebrate AdventHealth being our presenting sponsor of Speedweeks for years to come.” “We are excited to renew our great partnership and kick off another Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway, one of the greatest sports venues and one that is close to our hearts. Speedweeks is an outstanding racing event for our community and all race fans, and we are proud to be a part of it and honored to provide care to the teams and the fans,” said Terry Shaw, president/CEO for AdventHealth. As part of the new deal, AdventHealth will also have exclusive naming rights for five new Mothers’ Nursing Rooms for fans, industry members, and partners when the gates are open at the Daytona International Speedway. A first of its kind within the racing industry, these rooms provide breastfeeding mothers with a private, clean, and comfortable space. These one-person rooms lock and have an “in-use” sign on the exterior of the door when occupied. Side tables, changing tables, and diaper genies are all included in the rooms. Fans can learn more about the AdventHealth Mothers’ Nursing Rooms by reviewing Speedway maps or asking any guest services representative. This comes on the heels of AdventHealth and Women in NASCAR (WIN) partnering in 2023 to open Mothers’ Nursing Rooms at the IMC Building that hosts Daytona International Speedway and NASCAR office space. WIN is an employee resource group that aims to create a supportive community for women and allies in NASCAR offices to foster dialogue and promote professional growth. “These dedicated lactation rooms will create a more inclusive environment for postpartum mothers in the sport of racing. Extensive research highlights the benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers, and this will give mothers a comfortable and dignified setting to pump or breastfeed their babies,” said Audrey Gregory, Ph.D., RN, Executive Vice President and CEO of the AdventHealth East Florida Division. “By upholding our core values of respect and inclusivity, we hope this will help new mothers at the Speedway feel valued and supported on race day.” The multi-day racing festival known as Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth is Feb. 14–18 and encompasses multiple events, including the DAYTONA 500. The action kicks off on Feb. 14 with Qualifying Presented by Busch Light, where drivers will fight for a front row start for Sunday’s race. Then on Feb. 15, the rest of the field will battle for the remaining spots in The Great American Race during the BlueGreen Vacations Duel. Feb. 16 is the first of four NASCAR season-opening races with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series kicking off in the Fresh From Florida 250, followed by a doubleheader on Feb. 17 with the ARCA Menards Series Hard Rock Bet 200 and the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 300. On Feb. 18, after a pre-race show from Pitbull and a gripping command given by Dwayne Johnson, Miss America herself will lead the field as she revs up her pace car before DJ Khaled waves the green flag to kick off the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500. As the Official Health Care Provider of the Daytona International Speedway, AdventHealth cares for more than 6,000 patients annually at the Speedway, including drivers, pit crews, NASCAR officials and fans. In recent months, AdventHealth announced a partnership with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, owned by the legendary, seven-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson and Erik Jones will drive the No. 43 AdventHealth Toyota Camry in the DAYTONA 500. For more information regarding the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com .
- Quad Lock Joins Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Xfinity Chevrolet
(Photo Source: Twitter.com/QuadLockCase ) Press Release | KAULIG RACING, TRACKHOUSE RACING CONCORD, North Carolina – New Zealand three-time Supercars Champion Shane van Gisbergen is bringing his driving talents to the NASCAR Xfinity Series in America in 2024. He’s also bringing along one of his most valued partners – Quad Lock. The Melbourne, Australia based outdoor lifestyle brand enjoys global success selling its innovative and market leading phone mounting products in more than 100 countries around the world including America. The Quad Lock Chevrolet and Van Gisbergen will make their first appearance June 1 at Portland (Ore.) International Raceway. The company will also serve as an associate sponsor with Van Gisbergen throughout the season. “It’s pretty cool that Quad Lock is joining me in America,” said Van Gisbergen who makes his Xfinity Series debut on Feb. 17 at Daytona (Fla.) international Speedway. “They joined me in Supercars in 2022 and neither of us ever dreamed we would be coming to America together to run in the NASCAR Xfinity and Cup Series. I hope NASCAR fans take a look at their products and come to rely on them as much as I do.” Van Gisbergen, the winner of the inaugural Chicago Street Race in his NASCAR Cup Series debut in July, will race full-time in the Xfinity Series driving the No. 97 Chevrolet Camaro with Kaulig Racing. The effort is part of an alliance with Trackhouse Racing. Van Gisbergen will also race in a minimum of seven Cup Series races in 2024 with Kaulig. The 34-year-old burst on the American scene when he won in his NASCAR debut at the inaugural Chicago Street race in July. Van Gisbergen became one of six foreign-born drivers to win a Cup Series race and the first driver since Johnny Rutherford in 1963 to win his first Cup Series start. It was just the latest entry in a resume that includes three Supercars titles, 80 wins and 48 pole positions making him the fourth most successful driver in Supercars series history. He also won the Bathurst 1000, the premier race in Australia, in 2020, 2022 and 2023. Trackhouse founder and owner Justin Marks brought Van Gisbergen to NASCAR and Trackhouse last year as part of the team’s PROJECT91 program created to give international stars a chance to compete in the sport. Through PROJECT91, 2007 Formula One champion Kimi Raikkonen raced in NASCAR in 2022 and 2023. Van Gisbergen’s Chicago victory and 10th-place finish on the road course at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Aug. 13 are his only two Cup Series starts. His only other NASCAR experience came Aug. 11 at Indianapolis Raceway Park where he made his paved oval career debut. He kept a lead lap position until the final few laps, finishing 19th. The Auckland, New Zealand native moved to the United States in December and lives near the Trackhouse and Kaulig race shops. Van Gisbergen joins a Kaulig Racing organization that has won two Cup races and 23 Xfinity races since the team’s inception in 2016. The Welcome, North Carolina team won the 2023 Bank of America ROVAL 400, as well as four Xfinity races with a variety of drivers. Van Gisbergen will join Kaulig Racing teammates Josh Williams, driver of the No. 11 Chevrolet and AJ Allmendinger, driver of the No. 16 in 2024 Xfinity season. Van Gisbergen isn’t the only one entering NASCAR for the first time. Quad Lock is thrilled to venture into the world of NASCAR as a primary sponsor,” said Dominic Storey, Quad Lock Sponsorship Manager. “As Quad Lock continues its growth in the US market, the collaboration with Trackhouse Racing, Kaulig Racing and the inclusion of our brand ambassador, Shane van Gisbergen, presents a fantastic alignment for everyone involved. We eagerly anticipate achieving success together, both on and off the track in the coming future.” The Quad Lock story began when its founder rode bikes on empty roads, explored mountains on foot, and deserts in the car. But they didn’t have total confidence taking their phones out there. So, they did something about it. A few years after the release of the first iPhone, Quad Lock was born. And a Kickstarter campaign in 2011 launched a premium iPhone mount – loved by cyclists worldwide. The range has since expanded to other pursuits, with enthusiasts all over the world exploring more with their phones securely in sight. Quad Lock products withstand extreme weather, falls, and impact, featuring a patented dual-stage locking mechanism and secure mount tailored to each activity. Van Gisbergen’s Xfinity series debut is set for Feb. 23 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. FS1 will broadcast the race live at 5 p.m. ET.
- Zeigler Auto Group, Gainbridge Pair with Carson Hocevar, Spire Motorsports for Daytona 500
(Photo Source: Twitter.com/SpireMotorsport) Press Release | SPIRE MOTORSPORTS MOORESVILLE, N.C. (February 12, 2024) – Zeigler Auto Group and Gainbridge, a Group 1001 company, will serve as co-primary sponsors aboard Carson Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s 66th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. The unique collaboration pairs Zeigler Auto Group with Gainbridge at the Great American Race, providing both partners the opportunity to showcase their brands at the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) annual season opener. Hocevar, who will compete for Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in 2024, signed a multi-year agreement with Spire Motorsports in October to drive the team’s No. 77 entry and will make his first Daytona 500 start. “It’s a dream come true to have Zeigler Auto Group and Gainbridge on board our No. 77 Chevrolet,” said Hocevar. “Both organizations have shown so much faith in me and that really gives me an added boost of confidence. I’m definitely ready to get the season going. It’s surreal to be able to go to the Daytona 500 with two incredible Midwest companies supporting me. I grew up driving past Zeigler stores near my hometown in Michigan so to be able to carry those colors at Daytona means more than I can really put into words.” Zeigler Automotive Group is one of the largest privately-owned dealer groups in the U.S. with 84 franchises across 41 locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Vehicle brands represented include all the domestic and majority of the imported manufacturers. The family-owned and -operated organization has been a regular on the NCS tour since 2019, previously partnering with Spire Motorsports and the No. 77 team for 15 races in 2022. “Having Carson represent not only Zeigler, but the entire city of Kalamazoo and the state of Michigan, is a huge source of pride for me and our entire team,” said Aaron J. Zeigler, president and CEO of Zeigler Auto Group and Zeigler Racing. “We know he will make us proud on and off the track.” Gainbridge, a Group 1001 Company, offers an online digital platform, offering trusted financial products simplified for the modern age. The Indianapolis-headquartered organization carries a vast presence across multiple disciplines of motorsports and promotes its suite of services as a multi-year presenting sponsor of the Indianapolis 500, and a founding partner of the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. In addition to Hocevar’s effort, Gainbridge will serve as the primary sponsor on Nick Sanchez’s No. 2 Chevrolet Silverado in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. “The Daytona 500 is one of the most iconic races in the world and Gainbridge is thrilled to support Carson Hocevar as he makes his debut in the Great American Race,” said Mike Nichols, Chief of Sponsorship Strategy & Activation at Group 1001. “It’s been a very busy off-season, and we can’t wait for the 2024 NASCAR season to take the green flag. We’re looking forward to seeing Carson mix it up on the high banks at Daytona and put himself in position to have a great day.” The 66th running of the Daytona 500 will be televised live on FOX, Sunday February 18 beginning at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The first of 36 races on the 2024 NCS schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.
- Tire Pros Renews Partnership for Fourth Year with JR Motorsports
Press Release | JR MOTORSPORTS MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 12, 2024) – JR Motorsports announced today that North Carolina-based Tire Pros will enter its fourth year of partnership with the team, joining Sam Mayer and the No. 1 entry for primaries at Phoenix Raceway (March 9) and Charlotte Motor Speedway (May 25) with associate placement for the remaining 31 races in 2024. In addition, Tire Pros will expand its presence as a segment sponsor of The Dale Jr. Download in 25 shows this season. “Tire Pros is excited to partner and further our relationship with Sam Mayer and the No. 1 race team,” says Tire Pros President, Greg Bell. “It’s been great watching Sam’s success on the track and we look forward to supporting his quest for a championship run this year. We’re equally excited about the opportunity to continue working alongside Dale Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller and the entire JR Motorsports team in ’24.” Headquartered in Huntersville, N.C., Tire Pros is the nation's largest network of elite, independent and locally owned tire dealers. With more than 650 locations under a shared national brand, Tire Pros provides a broad suite of specialized tools and resources to help franchisees drive consumers to its stores, enhance operations and maximize profitability. The company is backed by the power of American Tire Distributors (ATD), one of the largest independent suppliers to the replacement tire market with 113 distribution centers and over 80,000 customers across North America. “I’m really looking forward to getting this season started and partnering with Tire Pros again,” said Mayer, who made two starts with the brand during his rookie campaign in 2021. “It’s great to have them back at JR Motorsports, especially with the No. 1 team.” After spending their first three seasons with JRM’s No. 8 team, Tire Pros will transition to the No. 1 entry for the first time, joining Carolina Carports as recently announced partners for Mayer. A native of Franklin, Wis., Mayer earned a career-best four wins and a third-place finish in the NXS championship in 2023. “Integration across all Dale Jr. companies is when a partnership is activating at its best, and we welcome to the content side of our business a partner that has been important to this organization for years,” said Mike Davis, president and executive producer of Dirty Mo Media. “The Dale Jr. Download audience will serve Tire Pros well and vice versa.” Hosted by Dale Earnhardt Jr., The Dale Jr. Download began its 12th season as the No. 1 motorsports podcast and a top-25 podcast in all of sports. Tire Pros’ presence on DJD will be on the popular Tuesday segment called Dirty Air, in which Earnhardt Jr. airs his opinions, observations and life stories in the most transparent version of himself available. The Dale Jr. Download airs every Tuesday and Wednesday during the NASCAR race season on all major podcasting platforms and Dirty Mo Media’s YouTube channel.
- CITGARD®, Front Row Motorsports Reunites to Partner with Gilliland
Press Release | FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS MOORESVILLE, N.C. (February 12, 2024) - Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is proud to announce a multi-race and all-season associate sponsorship with the CITGARD® brand for select NASCAR Cup Series events with Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 team. CITGARD®, a CITGO Petroleum Corporation brand, is a line of heavy duty, next generation engine oils formulated with proprietary additive technology that protects engines from running at higher temperatures and higher fuel injection pressures, while meeting tighter wear limits and lower emission requirements. The CITGARD® brand will serve as the primary sponsor on the No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in two NASCAR Cup Series events this season. Gilliland will carry the CITGARD® colors at Bristol Motor Speedway (Tenn.) in March and at the Atlanta Motor Speedway (Ga.) playoffs in September. CITGARD® returns to FRM after last partnering with the team during the 2022 NASCAR season for Gilliland’s rookie year in the Cup Series. The heavy-duty engine oil brand has partnered with FRM in the past, previously teaming up with John Hunter Nemechek, Anthony Alfredo, and David Ragan. “Reuniting with Front Row Motorsports, Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 team is a great opportunity to showcase the durability of our CITGARD® heavy duty engine oil,” said Mike Curtis, CITGO General Manager, Lubricants. “Todd and his team continue making waves in the NASCAR Cup Series and CITGARD® is the perfect product to support another successful season.” "It's awesome to have CITGARD® return to Front Row Motorsports this season," said Gilliland. "We need a reliable, heavy duty engine lubricant when traveling thousands of miles from track to track and CITGARD is just that —reliable. I want to thank everyone at CITGARD® for returning to our race program.” Fritz Sports & Event Enterprises (FSE) continues to oversee the partnership. “We are thrilled to see the iconic CITGARD® brand return to the Front Row Motorsports family again,” said FSE CEO Doug Fritz. “This partnership has been beneficial for everyone involved and we look forward to continuing that positive momentum this season with Todd.” For more information about CITGARD®, visit www.citgolubes.com.
- Faction46 to Debut at World Center of Racing
Press Release | FACTION46 MOORESVILLE, N.C. (FEBRUARY 12, 2024) — Faction46 will make their NASCAR debut this week at the World Center of Racing, the Daytona International Speedway. Behind the wheel, Thad Moffitt will pilot the No. 46 Chevrolet Silverado. Customers Bank will be the primary sponsor of the team in its much-anticipated beginning led by crew chief Doug George. Faction46 is owned by Lane Moore, owner of Venture Food Stores, and has an alliance with Niece Motorsports. Moffitt said the team has worked hard in what has been a busy offseason putting the team together. “We just introduced this team in December and now it’s time to go race,” said Moffitt. “It is a little bit crazy to think how far we have come in such a short time. We could not have done it without Doug’s leadership and the support of Niece Motorsports and our alliance. Starting a new team is not easy, but we had a great foundation, and everyone has done their part to build a fast Silverado for Daytona.” There is no better track for Faction46 to turn its first laps. Moffitt has three starts at the track in the ARCA Series and one previous start in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Moffitt has a best start of second and finish of fifth in the ARCA Series and an 18th-place result in the truck series at Daytona. “It may sound weird to some, but this really is a track that I’m the most comfortable at,” continued Moffitt. “I grew up here watching my grandfather (“The King” Richard Petty) and my uncle (Kyle Petty) and the rest of my family racing here. It’s just my DNA to be racing at Daytona in February. It feels good to make our debut here and start making our mark in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.” Moffitt and Faction46 will have plenty of support this week in Florida. With Customers Bank on the hood and sides, the team will also be sponsored by Clean Harbors, Safety-Kleen, Pristine Auction, Joe Jurgielewicz and Son - America’s Tastiest Duck, Induction Innovations, and Best Working Wipes. Moore is thankful for the partners and the team who are ready to compete for the win on Friday evening. “You only make your debut once and I know that everyone associated with the program is excited,” said owner, Moore. “I want to thank all the hard-working men and women who have worked tirelessly in getting this truck ready to race. We know that Thad will be in the mix on Friday night and make everyone on this team venture proud.” The new Faction46 team can be found online at www.faction46.com and on social media on Twitter (@TeamFaction46), Instagram (@TeamFaction46), TikTok (@TeamFaction46), and on Facebook and YouTube. Faction46 and Moffitt can be seen live during the Fresh From Florida 250 at the Daytona International Speedway on Friday and televised live on FS1 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
- GRAMMY® Award Winning Artist DJ Khaled Named Honorary Starter for DAYTONA 500
Press Release | DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 12, 2024) – GRAMMY® award winning DJ, artist and music producer DJ Khaled will waive the green flag ahead of the 66th Running of The Great American Race on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024. Khaled will be reminding fans to Go Biggie as he joins forces with longtime NASCAR partner Wendy’s® in promotion of Wendy’s Biggie™ Bag to bring together his love for fast cars, fresh beef, music, and golf. This one-of-a-kind infield experience at the Daytona International Speedway is bringing the big race day energy to Daytona’s biggest fans complete with a drive-thru experience to score the best deal in fast food and mini-golf activation like you’ve never experienced before, so sports fans can feel that biggie energy all day long whether in the stands or in the infield! “We always love welcoming back our friends from Wendy’s, and introducing DJ Khaled into the mix as our Honorary Starter just amplifies an already spectacular list of pre-race dignitaries,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “There’s truly nothing like the experience of hearing those cars take the first lap at Daytona, and who knows, maybe the sounds of the engines rumbling past that starter stand as he waives the green flag will provide DJ Khaled with some inspiration for another chart-topping hit.” Khaled Khaled, known professionally as DJ Khaled, has produced decades’ worth of award-winning and chart-topping songs and albums. Throughout his career, he’s worked with artists such as Jay-Z, Justin Bieber, Rhianna, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Beyonce and many more. He frequents the Billboard Hot 100 Chart, producing popular songs like “All I Do Is Win,” “I’m The One,” “Wild Thoughts,” “Popstar,” and “No Brainer.” Over the course of his career, DJ Khaled has received 10 GRAMMY® Award Nominations, and won the coveted record trophy in 2020 for Best Rap/Sung Performance alongside co-artists Nipsey Hussle and John Legend for the hit song “Higher.” “I’ve always respected the Biggie lifestyle at Wendy’s and being chosen as this year’s honorary starter lets me turn that dream into reality,” said Grammy-Award winning artist, producer, and CEO DJ Khaled. “Going Biggie means going all out in everything, every day and challenging expectations at every turn. And being this year’s honorary starter is yet another way for me to do just that! I’m looking forward to seeing all the fans at the track and in the infield at the Wendy’s activation, you won’t want to miss it!” The DAYTONA 500 is just one event taking place during the multi-day racing festival known as Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth. The action kicks off on Wednesday, Feb. 14 with Qualifying Presented by Busch Light, where drivers will fight for a front row start for Sunday’s race. Then on Thursday, Feb. 15, the rest of the field will battle for the reaming spots in The Great American Race during the BlueGreen Vacations Duel. Friday is the first of four NASCAR season openers with the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series kicking off in the Fresh From Florida 250, followed by a doubleheader on Saturday, Feb. 17 with the ARCA Menards Series Hard Rock Bet 200 and the Xfinity Series United Rentals 300. Then, on Sunday, Feb. 18, DJ Khaled will join Dwayne Johnson and Pitbull for an epic pre-race, as he waives the green flag to signal the start of the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500. For more information regarding the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.













