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Press Release | RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING WELCOME, NC (January 26, 2024) – Richard Childress Racing announced this week key leadership appointments designed to strengthen the organization’s operations. Mike Verlander has been named chief operating officer of Richard Childress Racing. The long-time motorsports executive will work closely with chairman and CEO Richard Childress and RCR president Torrey Galida to provide oversight and strategic direction in all areas of day-to-day operations for the 16-time NASCAR championship-winning organization. Verlander joins RCR with close to 20 years of experience in the motorsports industry, most recently serving as president and chief revenue officer for Kyle Busch Companies, where he led Kyle Busch Motorsports and managed all personal and commercial revenue for the Busch family. Verlander has a proven track record of delivering results and building strategic partnerships with world class brands. Verlander will join a robust C-level suite that includes newly appointed chief marketing officer Jennifer White, who becomes the first female to hold the CMO title at RCR. White, a 15-year veteran of RCR, most recently served as sr. vice president of marketing and communications, and will continue to lead the organization’s partnership marketing, communications, content and licensing departments. “Mike Verlander is a highly respected industry veteran who will bring a wealth of knowledge and industry experience to RCR as he helps us chart the course for the long-term future during a very dynamic time in our sport,” said Torrey Galida, president of RCR. “I’m excited for Mike to work with the leadership team in all aspects of our business operations and know that he will do a great job. I’d also like to congratulate Jennifer White on her new position as chief marketing officer for RCR. She has done an outstanding job setting the standard for our partners and building a strong team of marketing and communications professionals.” For more information, please visit rcrracing.com.

Press Release | DAYTONA 500 DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 26, 2024) – He knows you want to have a good time. And if you’re going to be at the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500 you’ll get it, as Daytona International Speedway today announced that Armando Christian Pérez, Pitbull, will kick-off the Great American Race on Sunday, Feb. 18 by performing the pre-race show on the ballfield.     “There’s no better way to get the energy flowing than with Pitbull performing our pre-race concert for the Daytona 500,” said Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher. “Pitbull has continued to release major hits for over a decade and has shown tremendous longevity as an artist over the years. He’ll bring all the South Florida vibes and culture up here to put on quite the show for the 66th running of The Great American Race.”     Pitbull announced the next iteration of the “TRACKHOUSE” album series, set for release in February. The lyrics and cover of the EP titled “ TRACKHOUSE: Daytona 500 Edition ” reflect key elements of NASCAR’s biggest race. Pitbull joined Trackhouse Racing as a co-owner in 2021, connecting the world of music and racing to unite and inspire fans globally.     “It’s an honor to once again be part of the Great American Race, this time performing at the Daytona 500,” said Trackhouse team co-owner Armando Christian Perez (Pitbull). “So Everyone start your engines, Get Ready and Dale!”     “Mr. Worldwide” has earned 46 total awards throughout his career, sold 25 million studio albums, has over 40 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and passed 18 billion YouTube views. Most recently his Billboard Hot 100 global hit “Give Me Everything,” featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack and Nayer surpassed 1 Billion streams on Spotify, his third record to join Spotify’s billion streams club.     He’ll continue touring with fellow artists Enrique Iglesias and Ricky Martin on The Trilogy Tour during the first part of 2024.     Pitbull has collaborated with numerous famed artists including Jennifer Lopez, Usher, Enrique Iglesias, Kesha, Christina Aguilera, Ne-Yo and many more. Some of his most notable songs include “On the Floor,” “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love,” “I Like It,” “Timber,” “Feel This Moment,” and “Give Me Everything.” At the 2016 Grammy Awards, Pitbull’s second Spanish album Dale won the award for Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Album.     Pitbull’s concert serves as just one of the many highlights during Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth.     It all starts on Wednesday, Feb. 14, with DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light determining the front row for the DAYTONA 500. That’s followed up on Thursday, Feb. 15, with the Bluegreen Vacations Duel, where drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series battle it out for the chance to race on Sunday.       Friday, Feb. 16 sees the return of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in the Fresh From Florida 250. Then, the racing continues with a doubleheader on Saturday, Feb. 17, with the ARCA Menards Series Race, followed by the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 300.     Then, on Sunday, Feb. 18 directly following Pitbull’s performance, drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series will make their 2024 season debut in the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500 at 2:30 p.m. ET. The concert will take place on pit road, visible from the grandstands, but fans with a Hard Rock Bet Fanzone Pass can watch Pitbull’s set up-close. Fans can still purchase the Infield Admission and Hard Rock Bet Fanzone Access Package , even without grandstand admission, which also grants access to driver and VIP appearances, a glimpse into the NASCAR Cup Series garages, up-close access to driver introductions and more. Fans who have already purchased a grandstand admission to The Great American Race can upgrade to include Hard Rock Bet Fanzone access to their experience.      Fans are encouraged to reserve their place in history during Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth by logging onto DAYTONA500.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP. Additionally, fans can buy or sell reserved seats for the DAYTONA 500 by visiting SeatGeek , the Official Ticket Marketplace of NASCAR.      Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway via www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram , as well as the NASCAR Tracks App , for the latest speedway news.

By Adam Carabine & Logan Morris This year, in preparation for the 2024 NASCAR season, we present our Team Previews Series. Each day until the end of January, a new Team Preview will be live on our website. Check back every day to see what we have to say about your favourite team! Adam Carabine:  We’re down to our final five teams in our Team Preview Series! Today we’re examining Stewart-Haas Racing, who might be the team with the biggest changes this season.  There’s a lot to unpack here, let’s get started.  Chase Briscoe suddenly becomes the most senior member of this team with the departures of Aric Almirola and Kevin Harvick.  Does he need to start taking on a bigger leadership role here, Logan? Logan Morris: Only if it comes naturally to him. I don’t think you want to force yourself as the leader of the team. That comes with time, experience and noteworthy performances on the track. In my estimation, it’s Tony Stewart who is going to have to lead and mentor these guys, all while balancing other professional pursuits. AC: I’m not convinced that Tony Stewart (or anyone, for that matter) has enough mental bandwidth to take that task on.  I think someone needs to step up, I’m just not sure which driver it’ll be. Ryan Preece has been around the block a few times, though this is only his second year with this team. What can we expect from him this season? LM: I think we can expect some improvements. I don’t expect it  to be vast, but I think you’ll see more top 20’s and things like that. I think Preece is a solid driver. However, I firmly believe SHR is in the midst of a downturn that’s going to take at least a few seasons to come out of. The equipment just isn’t what it used to be. AC: Let’s not forget they also lost Busch and Smithfield, two of the bigger sponsors in the Cup Series field.  It’s looking to be a year of growing pains for the club.  Who do you think will be the highest performer on the team? LM: They lost GearWrench as well. I think Briscoe will far and away be the best performer on the team. He’s the only one I see as potentially sneaking up and maybe winning a race. Gragson will likely be the public face of the team. His personality is a different breed. We got a taste of that during his brief tenure at Legacy MC last season. However, on the track Briscoe may be the only saving grace. AC: How could I forget GearWrench! I think I may be on track for a Loganity Hot Take here, but I think Josh Berry will be the top performer of SHR this year. He really did a great job filling in here and there last year, as basically the understudy to any injured Cup driver.  I’m interested to see how he handles the stress of a full-time Cup season schedule - but is there much more pressure than jumping into the #9 car for an injured Chase Elliott? I hope, for the sake of SHR fans, that Berry has a stellar season - I see him being the only one to make it to the playoffs in ‘24.  Who do you think finishes the worst of the four? LM: Piping hot takes, from the StatChat stalwart!  I think Noah is in line to do the worst of the four drivers. I wish him well, but his numbers were what they were last season, so the expectations have to be low. AC: I would agree with that.  And of course, no disrespect to Noah, I think he’s got a great personality and I hope that he grows into this ride and becomes a playoff contender for years to come.  He is in better equipment this year after leaving LMC early last season, but I still don’t think he rises above the other three. Stay tuned for our next instalment of the Team Previews Series tomorrow, where we look at RFK Racing!

(Photo Credit: Sean Gardner/Getty Images) By Adam Carabine & Logan Morris This year, in preparation for the 2024 NASCAR season, we present our Team Previews Series. Each day until the end of January, a new Team Preview will be live on our website. Check back every day to see what we have to say about your favourite team! Adam Carabine: Hey Logan, we’re back at it to look at 23XI Racing in our Team Previews Series.  They’re still a growing team, and they’ve got a brand new shop, what are expectations like for Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick this year? Logan Morris: If there’s any team that is on the cusp of becoming elite it’s 23XI. We saw Bubba Wallace have a career year. Tyler Reddick was consistent as always. This could be the year they become true championship contenders in my view. AC: I’m with you on Tyler Reddick, for sure.  He’s blossomed into a legit threat at any road course, he is able to ride the wall just about as well as Kyle Larson does, and he’s shown that he has the mental fortitude to make a deep run into the playoffs.  I like Bubba Wallace, but to me, it’s too early to call him a championship contender just yet.  They definitely both need to make the playoffs this year, though, no? LM: Absolutely. With all the sponsorship they have rolling in, and the fact that with each year they become more comfortable with this new car. It’s playoffs or bust for both of them. Anything less is a failure. AC: Do you think that Bubba Wallace has another breakout season?  Is there any chance he passes Reddick in the final standings? LM: Loganity take, I think so. Wallace has found something with this car. They have their mojo working so to speak. He could win the first two races of the season. Bubba will win 2-3 races this season at least. AC: I do hope you’re right.  I think for Bubba the biggest factor is whether he can drown out the noise that seems to constantly follow him. There’s a lot of pressure to perform at the Cup Series level, and when you have a barrage of haters who consistently make your life a little more difficult, it can be mentally taxing, for sure.  I hope he’s mentally well, and I hope he rips it up this season. Have we heard anything about any extra 23XI cars coming in this year? I know last year we had Travis Pastrana run a few races, etc. LM: None as of right now. But, I expect to see the 67 on track a few times this season. AC: I wouldn’t be surprised either.  It would be strange to have that be a one-off from last season. Stay tuned to our Team Previews Series, as tomorrow we visit Stewart-Haas Racing!

(Photo Source: Twitter.com/RFKracing) Press Release | RFK RACING CONCORD, N.C. (Jan. 24, 2024) – RFK Racing has announced that Consumer Cellular, a leading force in the wireless communication industry, has joined the team as its ‘Official Communications Provider.’ In addition, Consumer Cellular will serve as a primary partner for Brad Keselowski and the No. 6 team in multiple races in 2024 and beyond: making its debut on the No. 6 Ford at the NASCAR Cup Race in Phoenix in March. “We’re always excited to welcome new partners to not only our team here at RFK, but we’re thrilled to introduce and welcome Consumer Cellular to the sport of NASCAR,” said Keselowski, driver, and co-owner of RFK. “As you can tell by their unique and engaging unveil of this partnership, the team is already ahead of the curve in creative ideas, and we hope to continue that this season and beyond.” Consumer Cellular will make its NASCAR debut at the Phoenix race on March 10 (3:30 p.m. ET, FOX, SiriusXM). Its vibrant orange and blue scheme will ride along with Keselowski at three additional races in 2024, including Kansas Speedway on May 5 (3 p.m., FS1, SiriusXM), Nashville Superspeedway on June 30 (3:30 p.m. ET, NBC, SiriusXM), and Homestead-Miami Speedway on Oct. 27 (2:30 p.m. ET, NBC, SiriusXM). In addition, Consumer Cellular’s presence across the No. 6 team will increase significantly in the years following, with its marks living on all No. 6 team assets throughout the 2024 season. Additionally, all of RFK’s at-track communication devices will be branded Consumer Cellular. With a remarkable rise from its origins as a small Pacific Northwest startup, Consumer Cellular has grown into a 100% U.S. based company boasting over four million subscribers nationwide. Offering many of the same services as the leading wireless brands but at up to half the price, Consumer Cellular aims to deliver exceptional value to its customers from both its growing retail presence and 100% all U.S. based call centers. “RFK brings great innovation, performance and American know-how to the track, we didn’t get into NASCAR or this partnership lightly, we watched the team’s progression throughout the 2023 season and after spending time together came away feeling like it was a great fit for us and our customers – many of whom followed Brad’s career in the sport,” said Carter Nance, VP of Brand at Consumer Cellular. “Brad and RFK Racing have a track record of excellence and for them to count on us to be their communications partner says a lot about where we are as an organization,” said Nance. Keselowski has a combined two wins and 34 top-10s in 76 starts at the four tracks where the Consumer Cellular Ford will appear this season.

Press Release | DARLINGTON RACEWAY DARLINGTON, S.C. (Jan. 25, 2024) – Darlington Raceway announced today that the Official Throwback Weekend of NASCAR will be making its return to the track Too Tough to Tame during the Goodyear 400 weekend, May 10-12. This year’s theme – Celebrate our Roots through Grassroots Racing – will honor the racing origins of drivers, owners, team members, and NASCAR as a whole. “We’re honored to continue the tradition of hosting NASCAR’s Official Throwback Weekend in the spring,” said Darlington Raceway President Josh Harris. “Grassroots racing is the lifeblood of our sport, and providing our industry with a chance to pay tribute to their grassroots origin story acknowledges the importance that it plays in the past, present and future of NASCAR.” Every driver has a story about their rise through grassroots/local track racing that led them to one of NASCAR’s national series, and they will each have the opportunity to celebrate their ascent with paint schemes that harken back to the beginning of their racing careers. Drivers will simultaneously be able to utilize Throwback Weekend to amplify their ongoing efforts to support grassroots racing and tell their story. NASCAR and Darlington Raceway will also showcase historic local racetracks and drivers in the region for long-time fans to appreciate and new fans to discover.  Throughout the weekend, those in attendance can expect several displays and events that highlight the history and importance of grassroots racing across the country. The Official Throwback Weekend of NASCAR begins with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race on Friday, May 10, at 7:30 p.m. Then, the action will continue into Saturday, May 11, with the NASCAR Xfinity Series Race at 1:30 p.m. Finally, the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series will pay homage to their grassroots origins in the Goodyear 400 on Sunday, May 12, at 3:00 p.m. NASCAR fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets via phone at 866-459-7223 or online at darlingtonraceway.com while supplies last.

Press Release | DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 24, 2024) – It’s the fastest way to bet and the only legal way to bet on sports in Florida. Daytona International Speedway announced today a partnership with Hard Rock Digital to make its Hard Rock Bet platform the Official Sportsbook for The World Center of Racing and an Authorized Gaming Operator of NASCAR. The partnership brings together two globally recognized entertainment leaders to engage fans with on-site activations at the re-named Hard Rock Bet Fanzone and unique ‘money can’t buy’ experiences like pace car rides and behind-the-scenes event access. For the first time, fans in the stands will also be able to wager on NASCAR action unfolding live in front of them and 20+ other sports legally on Hard Rock Bet while rooting on their favorite drivers. “Our fans are some of the most enthusiastic when it comes to representing their favorite drivers and now, they can take that passion even further,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “Between the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, The DAYTONA 500, Bike Week Presented by Monster Energy and so much more, fans will be able to engage with them all in the Hard Rock Bet Fanzone right here at The World Center of Racing.” The Hard Rock Bet app is available for download in the App Store and Play Store, and a web sportsbook experience can be accessed at HardRock.bet. New online players that sign up will receive a No Regret First Bet up to $100, providing up to $100 back in bonus bets should their first wager lose. With a 4.9-star rating, Hard Rock Bet is one of the highest rated online sportsbooks with an easy-to-use app, quick sign-up, fast deposits and withdrawals, boosts, and free online loyalty rewards. “Just like Daytona International Speedway, Hard Rock Bet is built for speed with fast sign-ups, quick deposits and withdrawals, and rapid bet placement to get players in on the action,” said Marlon Goldstein, CEO of Hard Rock Digital. “We’re thrilled to partner with DIS to engage and entertain its dedicated worldwide fanbase like no one else can at the Hard Rock Bet Fanzone and on the Hard Rock Bet app on race weekends.” Fans can first experience the Hard Rock Bet Fanzone during the upcoming Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, the season opener for the IMSA WeatherTech Championship. The action begins as the drivers in the Mazda MX-5 Cup and the Michelin Pilot Challenge fight for the top spots on Thursday, Jan. 25 and Friday, Jan. 26. Then, fans will see drivers from all over the world prepare for 24 hours of nonstop racing, running from Saturday, Jan. 27 through Sunday, Jan. 28, in the historic Rolex 24 At DAYTONA. Less than a month later, fans in Florida will be able to wager on the DAYTONA 500 (Sunday, Feb. 18 on FOX) for the first time. Fans can purchase their tickets to the 2024 Rolex 24 At DAYTONA at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP. Purchase of tickets to the Rolex 24 also includes admission to the ROAR Before the Rolex 24 as well. Offered by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Must be 21+ and physically present in Florida to wager. Terms and Conditions Apply. Concerned about gambling? Please call 1-888-ADMIT-IT.

(Photo Credit: Logan Riely/Getty Images) By Adam Carabine & Logan Morris This year, in preparation for the 2024 NASCAR season, we present our Team Previews Series. Each day until the end of January, a new Team Preview will be live on our website. Check back every day to see what we have to say about your favourite team! Adam Carabine: Welcome back, let’s dive right into it.  Today’s Team Preview is all about TrackHouse Racing!  Is it safe to call them one of NASCAR’s most fun teams? There’s a certain energy in the way they present themselves.  It’s infectious.  Tell us Logan, can they keep up the energy in 2024? Logan Morris: They can and I believe they will.  They’re picking up major sponsorship in Busch Beer, Wendy’s and others. We all know that funding is the name of the game. Combine that with the talent of their drivers, it’s a major recipe for success. They have a certain mojo.   I expect big things for them this season. AC: You’re certainly right when it comes to their funding. I imagine that has to translate to results on the track.  Ross Chastain likely isn’t going anywhere any time soon, especially since he helped nab that ever-lucrative Busch sponsorship.  But what about Daniel Suarez?  What does his future with TrackHouse (or even NASCAR) look like? LM: It’s a pivotal year for him, no question. The momentum for TrackHouse is real and he’s a part of that. I think he gets back in victory lane this season. AC: I know he was disappointed in his season last year.  When I spoke with him in at the championship race in Phoenix last year, he said that he actually had cancelled his off-season vacation plans so he could get back to the shop sooner.  He said there was a lot of work to be done.  Certainly an influx of funding can’t hurt that, but you’ve got to think it’s a high-pressure year for Suarez.  How many wins does he need in ‘24 to call it a successful year? Is just one enough? LM: His commitment to getting back to the grind shows me he’s going to have a strong season. As far as how many wins makes the season a success? Just one is all he needs. However, the emphasis is on needs. Two or more is gravy. But, he needs to find victory lane at least once in 2024, or his seat is likely going to get warm.  SVG and Zane Smith are waiting in the wings. AC: That’s true, there is the added pressure of two guys who would be more than happy to slot into that 99 car.  I agree that it might only take one win, but he’s going to need multiple seasons of consistently finding victory lane if he wants to continue in the Cup Series.  What about Ross Chastain?  Since he broke into the win column two years ago, he’s been hitting two wins a season.  Does he need three this season to show improvement?  What makes a successful season for Chastain this year? LM: Given the increased funding and another year of experience, I’m going to say he needs three wins to live up to hype.  He’s consistently in contention for wins, but has had trouble closing the deal, usually because he doesn’t have many friends out there. If he can find a way to stop making enemies, the sky could be the limit. AC: That may be true, but there’s also the school of thought that his attempts to ‘clean up his act’ actually neutered his performance on the track.  Do you think he needs that nasty streak in order to get back to victory lane consistently?  Or will the rivalries he builds along the way come back to bite him? LM: It’s like most things in life, balance. He has to find a balance between his wreckless win-at-all-costs attitude and the more hesitant version of Ross Chastain that we saw after the infamous Rick Hendrick press conference.The great ones find a way to ride the lighting bolt, so to speak. AC: I think you’re right. Killer instinct is one of those intangibles that’s hard to learn.  It seems like we’ve both got pretty high expectations for TrackHouse this year, it should be interesting to see if they can live up to them. Stay tuned for another edition of our Team Preview Series tomorrow, where we unpack Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing.

(Photo Credit: Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) By Adam Carabine & Logan Morris This year, in preparation for the 2024 NASCAR season, we present our Team Previews Series. Each day until the end of January, a new Team Preview will be live on our website. Check back every day to see what we have to say about your favourite team! Adam Carabine: Back at it again with some more Team Previews, let’s discuss Richard Childress Racing.  Last year was the debut of the new-attitude-new-number Kyle Busch.  Dare I say he was more likeable this past year? He returns to the 8 for a second year in a row, alongside long-time RCR stalwart, Austin Dillon in the 3.  What do we make of RCR’s chances this year, Logan? Logan Morris: Any time you have Kyle Busch you have a chance. For my money, he remains the most talented driver in the field. The results fizzled some in the second-half for “The Rowdy One” last season. I don’t expect there to a significant drop off for Busch this season. He’s still a student of the game, and demands that of his team. Expect a more consistent season out of the 8 car this season. Shifting gears to Austin Dillion, every year I wonder if this is the year he could be on the hot-seat. He never seems to be. However, I have to ask the question, if he isn’t more consistent this season, will he finally be on the hot seat? AC: I hate to say it, because I don’t mind the guy, but does he have this long of a leash without his grandpa at the helm?  How do you fire your own grandson? I get it, but I also think it might be time for Austin Dillon to take a step back.  Maybe he can go run in the Xfinity Series for RCR, and he would likely be one of the favourites there.  I think Austin’s greatest hope will be that Kyle Busch can elevate the entire organization with his talent and work ethic.  I remember when Busch first joined the team last year, Austin Dillon was saying that things were already changing at the shop at Kyle’s request.  Hopefully that willpower to win can carry over to the 3 team. Last season, both Kyle Busch and Austin Dillon were DNF machines.  With 6 for Busch and 10 for Dillon, they’ll certainly want to clean that up this year.  What can the teams do to improve on this in ‘24? LM: For Busch, he was very open about the fact that sometimes he was probably pushing the car too hard at various points last season. I would expect that to change with another year of experience with the Next-Gen car.  One has to wonder if Dillon was similarly struggling with that as well. I would assume that Dillon’s biggest goal of the season is to take better care of his equipment. Some years there’s just not much rhyme or reason to it, it just isn’t your year. Last year was not Austin Dillon’s. AC: I can’t imagine the pressure of having a Kyle Busch come and be your teammate, too. It’s easy to compare yourself to him when he’s on a different team and say ‘hey, he’s better than me,’ but now you’re running essentially the same equipment.  There’s got to be some internal pressure there, if not from Kyle himself.  Let’s also not forget that Kyle Busch had his first year in a Chevrolet, which may have contributed to some of the growing pains there.  I’m not sure exactly how different the interior of one of these cars would be, but I imagine there’s enough of a difference to notice it. I do truly believe that RCR needs to improve as a whole this year if they want to make any noise.  Do you think both cars are playoffs or bust? LM: Absolutely. Richard Childress brought Kyle Busch in to compete for championships and to make the organization as a  whole better. If both cars don’t improve this season, he’ll likely be less than thrilled with his investment. AC: And by the sounds of it, it was a fairly sizeable investment, at that.  It’ll be fascinating to watch. Stay tuned to our Team Preview series - next up is TrackHouse Racing!

Press Release | LEGACY MOTOR CLUB STATESVILLE, NC (JANUARY 22, 2024) – John Hunter Nemechek will bring longtime personal sponsors Albertsons Companies, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, and ROMCO Equipment to LEGACY MOTOR CLUB for select races throughout the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season. Nemechek looks to continue his winning LEGACY with these companies who have all backed the Club’s newest driver of the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE for a large part of his racing career. “It really means a lot to me to continue our relationship with these great partners as we head into the new season. They have all stuck with me since my days of racing in the Truck Series, and I’ve been able to see their commitment to our program grow over the years, and so now for them be able to enter the Cup Series along with me is a great feeling. I can’t be thankful enough for all their support.” said Nemechek. “We have an extensive group of partners for 2024 and having everybody behind us as I make my return to racing on Sundays gives an added boost of confidence knowing that so many people believe in me. I think we have a great year ahead of us." Nemechek has demonstrated the ability to keep his partners engaged and satisfied both on and off the track. He has carried multiple partners to victory lane throughout his career. Albertsons Companies has supported Nemechek since the start of his career in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2015. Brands that are sold through their stores including the likes of Henkel (producers of Persil®, Dial®, all®, and Snuggle®) along with Baja Vida Beef Jerky and others will be represented on the No. 42 this year. Albertsons Companies stores can be found in 35 states as well as the District of Columbia, proudly representing one of the nation’s largest food and drug retailers. “We are thrilled to join forces with John Hunter Nemechek through the NASCAR Cup Series. This partnership is a perfect blend of speed and cleanliness, much like our trusted brands Persil®, Dial®, all®, and Snuggle®. With John Hunter's unwavering dedication, paralleling our commitment to excellence, we are ready to 'clean up' on the racetrack. This season is not just about speed; it's about showcasing the cleaning power and quality that Henkel brings to millions of homes.” said Justin Weilenmann, Director of Henkel Consumer Brand Sales for National Grocery. “Baja Vida Snacks is pleased to continue our partnership with John Hunter Nemechek as he returns to the NASCAR Cup Series. John Hunter and his entire team exemplify the same sense of pride, grit and determination that is also part of the Baja Vida Snack team core values. We strive to drive the same sense of adventure and excitement that is NASCAR into the beef jerky category with bold new flavors such as Street Taco, Salsa Fresca, and Lime & Serrano. We look forward to an exciting 2024 NASCAR season and wish John Hunter and the entire team success.” said Rick Harris, General Manager of Baja Vida Snacks. Pye-Barker Fire & Safety will celebrate their eighth season as a supporter of Nemechek, having formed their relationship with the driver in 2016. Pye-Barker has led the way in fire protection and safety equipment since 1946, boasting over 75 years of service. Nemechek has carried the Pye-Barker colors to victory lane in both the NASCAR Truck Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series in the past two seasons, but this will be the brand’s first introduction into the Cup Series. The Pye-Barker family of companies offer industry-leading solutions for portable fire extinguishers, restaurant fire suppression, special hazard systems, fire sprinklers, fire & intrusion alarms, access control, CCTV and security. “John Hunter’s character, drive and determination are values that resonate with the entire Pye-Barker team,” said Pye-Barker CEO, Bart Proctor. “We’ve been following John Hunter for a long time, and we are proud to be able to support him and the LEGACY MOTOR CLUB.” Texas-based ROMCO Equipment Company, has supported Nemechek since 2015 and have been serving the region’s heavy equipment needs for over 60 years. Their dealers specialize in products used in construction, paving, aggregate, and power equipment. “We are honored to share the NASCAR Cup Series race experience with John Hunter in Texas with our customers and manufacturers. ROMCO is successful through our valued employees’ hard work, professionalism and dedication to the team while maintaining a family atmosphere. John Hunter exemplifies this approach on and off the track and we are proud to support him again in 2024,” said Steve Passmore, ROMCO President. The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season kicks off for Nemechek and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for the running of The Clash on Sunday, Feb. 4th followed by the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500 on Sunday, Feb. 18th. For more information and news throughout the season, visit www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

Press Release | WATKINS GLEN INTERNATIONAL WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (January 23, 2024) – Mission Foods and Watkins Glen International are joining forces for the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Watkins Glen International. The track announced today that America’s No. 1 tortilla manufacturer will be the entitlement partner for the Mission 200 at The Glen, signing a multi-year agreement. Mission Foods will also hold the naming rights to the famous Esses Party Deck, now known as the Mission Foods Party Deck, where fans can look out over the historic New York Track and watch as drivers climb the hill through the sharp turns against a backdrop of Seneca Lake. “As we prepare for all the excitement that is to come in 2024, we’re proud to welcome our newest partner to The Glen, especially one who holds such passion for the motorsports industry and its fans,” said Dawn Burlew, President of Watkins Glen International. “Mission Foods demonstrates both variety and flavor through their wide range of products, and we couldn’t think of a better fit for both our Party Deck and our NASCAR race weekend.” Mission Foods has extensive involvement across the motorsport industry, yet this is their first time partnering with NASCAR and its tracks. The multi-year agreement between Watkins Glen International and Mission Foods will kickstart the tortilla company’s relationship in the sport. Mission Foods began as a small tortilla factory in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles and is now the No. 1 tortilla manufacturer in the U.S., cooking up specialty tortillas, chips, baked products, snacks and more. Over the years, Mission has expanded across multiple countries and continents, becoming the global brand it is today. “As champions of motorsports, we’re excited to be the title sponsor of the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Watkins Glen International, and we’re thrilled to be the official tortillas, chips, and wraps of Watkins Glen International for the next five years,” said Juan Gonzalez, Mission Foods Chief Executive Officer. “This sponsorship will provide tremendous opportunities to interact with all race fans in a fun and exciting environment.” The NASCAR race weekend at Watkins Glen International kicks off just before the fall season commences on Friday, Sept. 13 with the ARCA Menards Series, followed by the Mission 200 at The Glen on Saturday, Sept. 14, the second-to-last race of the Xfinity Series regular season. Then, on Sunday, Sept. 15, Watkins Glen International makes its NASCAR Cup Series Playoff debut in the Go Bowling at The Glen, with drivers battling it out on the 2.45-mile road course for the first time in the post-season. For more details about the 2024 NASCAR race weekend at Watkins Glen International, please visit www.theglen.com.

(Photo Credit: James Gilbert/Getty Images) By Adam Carabine & Logan Morris This year, in preparation for the 2024 NASCAR season, we present our Team Previews Series. Each day until the end of January, a new Team Preview will be live on our website. Check back every day to see what we have to say about your favourite team! Adam Carabine: Welcome back, Logan.  Let’s dive right into our Team Preview for today - Front Row Motorsports.  They recently made some big news by announcing they have a new technical alliance partner in Team Penske, ending their alliance with RFK Racing.  First things first, what sort of impact does that have in the immediate for FRM? Logan Morris: I think it’s big for them. We know when it comes to the Ford camp that Team Penske leads the charge, and that includes in resources. If you’re Front Row the type of data they’ll likely now have access to can make a significant difference to a season. Remember, for all the Penske up and downs, They’ve won the championship the last two seasons. AC: True enough. Team Penske is doing all of the right things at the moment, and have the biggest chunk of the Ford pie, so to speak. It’s a big move for sure. I wonder how long this has been in the works, because I can’t imagine it just happened recently. Amazing how some things can stay hidden for so long. Let’s talk drivers. Both Michael McDowell and Todd Gilliland return for another season as teammates. McDowell has blossomed since his Daytona 500 win a few years back. He doesn’t necessarily have the wins, but he’s become a presence. Do we chalk that up to better equipment? Is he one of those guys who’d be crushing it in Hendrick cars? LM: I think we can chalk it up to a few different factors. First off, the Next-Gen car has leveled the playing field to a certain degree. Secondly, his bread and butter, so to speak, is road courses and we’re in an era of more road course racing than ever in terms of the NASCAR schedule. Lastly, I also think confidence plays a big factor. Once you get that elusive first win the pressure comes off and it proves you can do it. That confidence was likely cemented with some of these great runs on road courses. AC: I’d say he’s a threat on Superspeedways too, to be honest. Yes I know his most recent win came at the Indianapolis Road Course (RIP) but recently he’s been consistently in a good position at the end of the Superspeedways - that alone is hard to do.  I’ll admit I was surprised to see Todd Gilliland get the job back this season.  Especially after the weird fiasco last year where he had something like 6 races taken away from him. I thought for sure their relationship was severed.  How does Gilliland fare this year? LM: I expect Gilliland to surprise some people. I think FRM made the correct the decision to bring him back. To build something long-term in this sport usually takes time and consistency, changing just for the sake of change is counter-productive in my view. He needs time to develop. AC: I don’t disagree with the sentiment, but I also know that this is a results-driven medium, and the 38 team last year just didn’t have a whole lot to show for itself.  I like Gilliland as a human being, but I’m pleasantly surprised he’s back for another season.  Is it safe to assume McDowell has the higher threshold this season?  I know you said Gilliland will surprise… but not that much, right? LM: Not so fast, my friend! I think Gilliland has a more consistent season than McDowell. McDowell has been at this a long time now and will decline at some point. I think it’s possible this could be the year. AC: Loganity bringing the hot takes!  I like it.  Regardless, I look forward to finding out which one of us is right.  I think it’s going to be an exciting season for Front Row. Stay tuned to our Team Preview series - next up we will take a look at Richard Childress Racing!

Press Release | PHOENIX RACEWAY PHOENIX (Jan. 22, 2024) – Tickets went on sale today for the 2024 NASCAR Championship Weekend at Phoenix Raceway, Nov. 8-10, and NASCAR fans are encouraged to act fast to secure their seats for NASCAR’s season finale. The NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 10, has completely sold out for the past three years, and grandstand tickets are historically sold out before summer. “The time to act is now,” said Phoenix Raceway President Latasha Causey. “We want to make sure fans don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience all of the action during both of our NASCAR weekends at Phoenix Raceway.” NASCAR Championship Weekend consists of four championship races over three days, beginning with the ARCA Menards Series West race and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Championship Race on Friday, Nov. 8. Action continues Saturday, Nov. 9, with the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race, which sets the table for the exciting NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on Sunday, Nov. 10, which has been contested at Phoenix Raceway since 2020. Tickets remain available for Phoenix Raceway’s Spring NASCAR Weekend, March 8-10. The ARCA Menards Series’ General Tire 150 begins the weekend on Friday, March 8, while the NASCAR Xfinity Series competes on Saturday, March 9. And then on Sunday, March 10, the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series compete in the Shriner’s Childrens 500 to provide a heart-pounding preview of what race fans can expect in November when the sport’s best drivers compete for the coveted Bill France Cup. Fans can secure their seats and experiences for both NASCAR weekends now by visiting www.PhoenixRaceway.com.

Press Release | IMSA DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – New track records are not a frequent occurrence at Daytona International Speedway.   But perfect, cool conditions, combined with a year’s worth of development on the Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) cars that comprise the top class of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, created a festival of speed Sunday in qualifying for the 62nd running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona.   Defending GTP class champion Pipo Derani smashed the five-year-old benchmark for the 3.56-mile Daytona road course en route to the Motul Pole Award, lapping the famous facility in 1 minute, 32.656 seconds (138.318 mph) in the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac Racing Cadillac V-Series.R. That edged the similar Cadillac Racing entry prepared by Chip Ganassi Racing and driven by Sebastien Bourdais by 0.071 seconds.   Derani, who also claimed the 2021 IMSA Daytona Prototype International (DPi) championship and owns a prior overall victory in the Rolex 24 (2016), was more than a second under the existing track record of 1:33.685 established by Oliver Jarvis in a Mazda DPi in 2019. Prior to that, one must go all the way back to 1993 to find a faster trip around DIS, when PJ Jones set what would be an enduring target near the end of IMSA’s original GTP era in the All American Racers Toyota Eagle Mk III.   All nine GTP cars that participated in Sunday’s qualifying session lapped faster than Jarvis’ previous track record.   “Obviously, the Cadillac was flying out there today,” Derani said after earning his 10th career pole position in IMSA competition. “It was just a privilege and a pleasure to drive such a car – really well balanced. There was great teamwork to improve what was needed for qualifying. The car felt on rails, and it was nice to enjoy and feel the full potential of GTP.   “In the end, everyone was really tight,” he added. “I think Porsche was within a tenth from pole (actually 0.22 seconds). It’s about finding those details to find a little extra time, and we were able to do just that today.”   Derani credited the atmospheric conditions – cloud cover, with temperatures in the mid-50s and a 17-mph tailwind through Daytona’s famous trioval – with creating lap times that were even faster than expected.   “We weren’t really talking about what was possible, we were just trying to maximize the tools that we had,” said Derani. “Quite honestly, I was quite surprised, but I think the conditions were perfect for that – cold, the tires were working well, and obviously for qualifying you’re running low fuel. I would say we were a bit more surprised than not by the lap time.”   Felipe Nasr qualified the No. 7 Porsche Penske Motorsports Porsche 963 third at 1:32.876, joined on the second row by Connor De Phillippi in the No. 25 BMW M Team RLL BMW M Hybrid V8. The Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Acuras locked out Row 3.   The No. 5 Proton Competition Porsche didn’t participate in qualifying after the car slid off track and into a barrier with Neel Jani at the wheel during a pre-qualifying practice session.   LMP2: Keating is Still King   The busiest man at Daytona International Speedway secured the best starting spot in the 13-car Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) field for the Rolex 24. Ben Keating, driving the No. 2 United Autosports USA ORECA LMP2 07, earned the class Motul Pole Award by producing a 1:38.501 effort (130.110 mph) a little less than halfway into the 15-minute LMP2 qualifying session.    Keating, the 2021 and ’23 IMSA LMP2 class champion, is also part of the driver lineup in the Rolex 24 for JDC-Miller Motorsports’ No. 85 Porsche 963 in the GTP class. He noted that his track time the complex GTP Porsche benefited him when he stepped back into the more familiar LMP2 car, and credited Sunday’s track conditions with helping produce a lap a half a second quicker than he was anticipating based on his qualifying simulations.     “The track was unbelievably fast today, almost perfect conditions,” Keating observed. “I was shocked; I couldn’t believe how quick it was. When I did that lap, I didn’t expect anybody to be close and I thought we might as well pull over. But Nick Boulle was just a tenth of a second behind me. That speaks to the high level of competition in LMP2 this year.”   Boulle’s best effort was 1:38.603 in the No. 52 Inter Europol by PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports ORECA, followed by George Kurtz (No. 04 Crowdstrike Racing by APR ORECA).   “As I look across the 2024 LMP2 field, two-thirds of the cars are really strong,” Keating said. “It’s going to be an epic year, and I’m looking forward to it.”   The 62nd Rolex 24 takes place Jan. 27-28. NBC television coverage begins at 1:30 p.m. ET Saturday, with the network also carrying the finish beginning at noon Sunday, Jan. 28. Flag-to-flag coverage will stream live on Peacock, with additional television coverage airing on USA Network.   Priaulx Puts ‘Rexy’ Porsche on GT Pole for Rolex 24 At Daytona DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Chalk one up for Porsche – but save some of that chalk for Lexus.   Seb Priaulx led the way for Porsche in qualifying Sunday for the Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO) class for next weekend’s 62nd Rolex 24 At Daytona, but two Lexus cars weren’t far behind among GT entries.   Priaulx won the first Motul Pole Award of his career en route to the No. 1 starting position in the GTD PRO class with a lap of 1 minute 44.382 seconds (122.780 mph) in the No. 77 AO Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R (992). Jack Hawksworth was just a tick behind in the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3, which will start second in GTD PRO after he was timed at 1:44.462 (122.685 mph).   Meanwhile, Parker Thompson claimed the Motul Pole Award in the GTD class and was third overall in GT in the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 with a lap of 1:44.494 (122.648 mph) around the 3.56-mile Daytona International Speedway road course. Both Priaulx and Thompson set track qualifying records for their respective classes.   While qualifying for a 24-hour race doesn’t seem consequential, Priaulx said the pole position proved a point of confidence.   “Everything is important,” said Priaulx, who will share the Dinosaur-liveried green Porsche known as “Rexy” with Laurin Heinrich and Michael Christensen when the Rolex 24 starts Saturday afternoon to open the 2024 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season. “Obviously with this race it doesn’t matter so much how qualifying goes, but we know we have a good car here. It’s confidence-building in what we have.”   Hawksworth, who will co-drive the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus with Ben Barnicoat, Kyle Kirkwood and Mike Conway, followed the team’s championship of 2023 with a solid runner-up effort in GTD PRO qualifying for the 2024 season opener.   Antonio Garcia secured third in class with a lap of 1:44.786 (122.306 mph) in the No. 3 Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports Corvette Z06 GT3.R he’ll co-drive with Alexander Sims and Daniel Juncadella.   Sunday’s qualifying session was red-flagged early after David Brule slid off course in the No. 92 Kellymoss with Riley Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) in the GTD class. The delay threw Priaulx off his rhythm for a moment, but he maintained focus and carried on.   “I kept my head down and focused on what I could do,” Priaulx said. “It worked out today, and I’m really happy.”   Thompson, Lexus prevail for pole in GTD   In his fifth race with Vasser Sullivan, Thompson claimed his first Motul Pole Award in WeatherTech Championship competition. The 25-year-old Canadian, who’ll run the full season for the first time, is co-drivers with Frankie Montecalvo, Aaron Telitz and Ritomo Miyata at Daytona.   “It means everything,” Thompson said. “Two years ago, I was spotting up there, and now I’m down in Victory Lane collecting my first pole. One for one, but I couldn’t do it without … the entire Lexus Racing Vasser Sullivan group. It’s such a solid group.”   Klaus Bachler continued the Porsche vs. Lexus theme by securing the No. 2 GTD starting position with a lap of 1:44.537 (122.597 mph) in the No. 86 MDK Motorsports Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) that he’ll co-drive with Kerong Li, Anders Fjordbach and Larry Voorde.   Katherine Legge brought the No. 66 Gradient Racing Acura NSX GT3 home third in GTD at 1:44.640 (122.477 mph). She’ll team with Sheena Monk, Tatiana Calderon and Stevan McAleer for the race.   NBC’s live coverage of the Rolex 24 At Daytona begins at 1:30 p.m. ET Saturday. Flag-to-flag live coverage can be found on NBC Sports platforms.