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Press Release | MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY MARTINSVILLE, Va. (January 19, 2024) – Martinsville Speedway announced today that Cook Out will serve as entitlement partner for the NASCAR Cup Series Spring race, the Cook Out 400, on Sunday, April 7 at 3:00 p.m. ET. This is familiar territory for the beloved fast-food chain as they previously sponsored Cup Series races at both Richmond Raceway and Darlington Raceway. “Cook Out has quickly become a premier partner in NASCAR and we certainly look forward to welcoming them to our spring race weekend this year,” said Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell. “Cook Out has provided their customers with a high-quality and enjoyable product for decades, and that’s something we pride ourselves in doing as well. Plus, we know a thing or two about signature menu items here at Martinsville Speedway, so it’s safe to say we have a lot in common with the newest member of our team.” Cook Out, founded in 1989, has always been known for their fresh burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, barbecue and over 40 flavors of milkshakes. The “Cook Out Tray” is a signature menu selection which includes your choice of a combination of entrees, sides, and a drink or milkshake. The fast-growing chain now has over 300 locations operating across 10 different states (Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia). “NASCAR has always been a driving force in our family for many generations, starting with fond memories of attending races at Daytona with my Dad, Uncle Doug, and Grandaddy. Now Dad and I bring my own sons, Max and Roo, to the races,” said Cook Out President & CEO Jeremy Reaves. “Because of that, we are thrilled to once again partner with Martinsville Speedway and look forward to bringing families together, including ours, at the Cook Out 400 on April 7.” The Cook Out 400 is part of a thrilling triple-header race weekend taking place at Martinsville Speedway in the spring. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series kicks off the weekend of racing on Friday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m. ET, and the excitement continues Saturday, April 6 with the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at 7:30 p.m. ET. The weekend comes to a close on Sunday, April 7 at 3:00 p.m., with the Cook Out 400, all at the historic half-mile venue known to bring the action. Tickets for the upcoming race weekend are available for purchase via phone at 877-RACE-TIX or online at www.martinsvillespeedway.com. Fans can stay connected to Martinsville Speedway on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and the NASCAR Tracks App.

(Photo Credit: Keenan Hairston/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:  We’re back with another edition of our Team Preview series.  Today we’re looking at Kaulig Racing!  Here’s a team that’s had a bit of an interesting trajectory from last season.  Let’s get started, Logan.  Thoughts on Daniel Hemric taking over the 31? Logan Morris: I think it’s a gutsy call by the top brass at Kaulig Racing. No disrespect to the former Xfinity Series Champion, but his resume does leave a little to be desired. He does have the one year of Cup Series experience to fall back on, where he spent a year at RCR. The results were less than stellar though. AC: I can’t say I disagree with you.  Hemric is a consistent performer, but he seems to lack that ability to close the deal.  He’s got one single career win - it just so happened to be the most important race to win - the championship race at Phoenix.  I imagine Justin Haley surprised more than just fans when he decided to jump ship to Rick Ware Racing, but I’m not convinced that Hemric is the guy to take his seat.  What about the 16? Allmendinger had an underwhelming year last year in his full-time return to Cup racing.  Did he deserve a second shot at it? LM: I do think the artist known as “The Dinger” deserved another shot at it. I don’t think he was sent back down to the Xfinity Series for a performance based reason. Every race team has a lot of moving parts and when you combine that with the family atmosphere of Kaulig Racing, it was probably more of a favour to the team than we fully know. The fact that we don’t know the plans yet for the 16 is pretty baffling. AC:  I definitely didn’t get the sense that it was Allmendinger’s decision to head back down to the Xfinity Series, but I also think he can be much more of a legitimate championship contender there, so there are some perks.  Also agreed on the Cup Series 16.  Why have we still not heard anything? Who is left out there who has the ability to step into that seat? I know Matt DiBenedetto is still looking for a ride, but I can’t imagine it’s him. LM: We know that AJ is going to run some Cup Races this season. At this juncture, I would guess the 16 will be split amongst AJ and at least one more driver. We know it’s still a chartered car so you have to assume it’ll be in all 36 races. The heavy speculation is that Matt DiBenedetto has signed a deal somewhere. Stranger things have happened? AC: True enough.  We’ll have to wait and see.  What about on-track performance?  I was underwhelmed by Kaulig last season.  They have a great Xfinity program, but the Cup teams are lacking.  What can be done to improve this season? LC: I think part of the issue is they’re lower on the Team Chevy totem poll. They will be a little higher with Legacy MC moving over to Toyota. I’m honestly expecting Kaulig to take a step back in the Cup Series this season. Given the uncertain status surrounding the 16 and Hemric’s underwhelming resume I expect this to be a season of growing pains. AC: It’s a shame, really, because I enjoy the family-like atmosphere you alluded to earlier.  I think Kaulig Racing as a whole is good for the sport of NASCAR.  In my heart, I hope you’re wrong, but my brain can’t find any reason to disagree.  Let’s hope they can figure some things out as the season moves along and not have it be a complete write-off. Stay tuned for more of our Team Preview series.  Next up we will dissect Front Row Motorsports!

(Photo Credit: Chris Graythen/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: Let’s get back into it.  Our Team Preview series resumes with another one-car team - JTG Daugherty.  Ricky Stenhouse Jr. returns to the fold for another season, and looks to follow up his Daytona 500 win with another one in 2024.  Will we see him go back-to-back, Logan? Logan Morris: I’m going to say no. Could he? Sure, it’s Daytona, and Stenhouse has never seen a risk not worth taking. However, when you’re a one-car team you don’t have any real friends out there, and that makes a massive difference. Cindric likely doesn’t win in 2022 without Blaney for example. AC: Fair enough.  I didn’t necessarily think he would either, but I thought I’d ask.  Because of his win last year, Stenhouse also punched his card to the playoffs. Without the “win and you’re in” system, Stenhouse wouldn’t have come close to the Top 16 in points.  Does he have any other opportunity to win his way in?  And if not, is there any hope of him pointing his way in? LM: Atlanta, Talladega, and the summer Daytona race are always possibilities. He’s also shown potential at tracks like Bristol. With that being said, I’m going to say he doesn’t win this season and doesn’t make the playoffs. If for no other reason than for other teams to take a step forward that means others have to take a step back and sadly I think JTG is a victim of that. AC: I like Stenhouse as a human being, but I’m afraid I agree. JTG hasn’t always brought the best equipment to the track, and with no real big sponsorship news, that doesn’t look like it’s going to improve this year.  If you’re not consistently improving, you’re falling back, because everyone around you is.  So if there are no playoffs for him this year, what constitutes a successful season for Stenhouse? LM: I’ve said this for a few teams, but 25th or better in the final standings feels like a realistic/fair goal.  As you said without the win at Daytona, 2023 left plenty to be desired so in some ways it would be an improvement. AC: I don’t have a fancy name for hot takes like “Loganity,” but I’m going to be bold and say Stenhouse finishes outside of the Top 30 this year.  I don’t have any real reason for thinking so other than trusting my gut, but something tells me it will be a bad season for JTG Daugherty this year.  It really does feel like they’re being left behind as other teams take big strides.  How long do you think the team sticks around? LM: That’s a fair question. Assuming charters are in the sport for the foreseeable future, you do have to wonder if JTG Daugherty could get an offer they can’t refuse. We know several teams are looking to acquire a charter and we know one Hall of Fame driver looking to break into the Cup Series as an owner. Pressure is mounting for teams like JTG Daugherty to succeed. AC: It will be interesting to see if Ricky Stenhouse Jr. can rise to the occasion or if he’ll crumble under that pressure.  The fate of JTG could rest in his hands. Stay tuned to our Team Preview series - tomorrow we take a look at Kaulig Racing!

(Photo Credit: www.legacymotorclub.com) 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 back at our Team Previews, and I imagine this is one that Logan has been looking forward to.  Legacy Motor Club returns with one new driver, and one returning.  Logan, tell us about LMC! Logan Morris: We can’t forget a new manufacturer! Legacy Motor Club is officially a Toyota team. John Hunter Nemechek takes over the 42. Recently LMC announced a significant sponsorship agreement with Dollar Tree and Family Dollar, so things appear to be looking up for the newest Toyota team. AC: I still think they should’ve rebranded as 14-Time Racing, but hey that’s just me.  The Toyota switch is an interesting one.  LMC top brass Cal Wells has been on record saying that Chevrolet was not giving them much to work with in the back half of last season, and that Toyota has promised them top tier access this year.  What’s interesting to me is that the John Hunter deal doesn’t happen without the switch, as he’s a known Toyota commodity.  What sort of hopes do we have for him this season? LM: Given the fact that Legacy MC is going to be a direct partner with Toyota, I think that raises expectations. John Hunter already has a year of Cup experience with Front Row Motorsports to fall back on. However, that was 2020 and it feels like a lifetime ago. The issue may be that the 43 feels like it will always get the best available resources, given its ties to Club Ambassador Richard Petty. If Nemechek finishes 22nd or higher in the final standings I think that’s a wonderful first season at Legacy. AC: I’m just looking back at John Hunter’s season with FRM in 2020, he finished 27th in the final standings.  Not terrible by any stretch for a rookie, but he’ll definitely want to finish better than that in 2024.  If the equipment is miles better than last year at LMC, Nemechek may look like a genius for stepping back to Trucks/Xfinity for a few years. And what about Erik Jones? Is it playoffs or bust for him this season? LM: You’re right that the expectations have to be higher than 27th. Though in Nemechek’s defence Front Row Motorsports wasn’t as competitive in 2020 as they are now. I think the equipment is a little different. Switching gears to Erik Jones, I do think it’s playoffs or bust. While  having a new manufacturer would suggest patience, let’s not forget Jones has plenty of experience in the Toyota system. Couple that in with all the new sponsorship that team is picking up, it’s a pivotal year for “That Jones Boy.” AC: Agreed. I don’t think I see both LMC cars making the playoffs, but it will feel like a letdown if Jones doesn’t squeeze his way in. Wins haven’t come easy for that 43 car recently, though, so Jones will have to hope there aren’t too many other winners and he can point his way into the Round of 16.  Are we in agreement that Jones finishes ahead of Nemechek this year? LM: Absolutely. AC: Regardless of what happens, it’ll be a very interesting year for LMC fans.  Stay tuned to our continued Team Preview series - next time we will talk about Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and JTG Daugherty!

(Photo Credit: www.spire-motorsports.com) 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, today we’re looking at Spire Motorsports.  Is it safe to call them the most interesting team of 2024? It’s been a hell of an offseason. Logan Morris: You’re hitting the nail on the head there, they now have a legendary consultant in the midst of their Truck Series program and rumours persist that they have some mystery financial backing that will be making waves even more so in the future. What do you make of those rumours? AC: The rumours are certainly interesting, but I’m more interested in if that will translate to better success on the track.  Strictly speaking Cup Series, they do have a new driver this year in the 77 with Carson Hocevar.  He certainly impressed in his limited Cup starts last season with Legacy Motor Club, will that continue in ‘24? LM: I have a lot of belief in Hocevar, he got more out of Legacy’s 42 than the plethora of other drivers that got behind that wheel after Gragson’s injury and suspension. Carson has the perfect personality to build a long-term connection with fans, and has shown he isn’t afraid to give his opinions on what needs to change in the sport. He is a name we will be talking about for years to come. I feel like he has all the tools for success. If he gets the backing, the sky might be the limit. AC: He may have made a few enemies in the Truck Series finale last season, but he’s definitely an interesting character and one to watch for sure.  This is where that mystery financial backing comes into play. Is a personality like his going to be wasted in a backmarker Spire car? Do they take a step forward this year, or are there growing pains? LM: I believe they will absolutely take a step forward this year. I think the 77 will give his teammate a run for his money in being one of the most consistent drivers in the field. Spire is clearly building something special and putting everyone on notice after making Kyle Busch an offer he couldn’t refuse, you don’t make moves like that unless you have long-term capital to capitalize, in my opinion. AC: I really do hope you’re right.  Teams being more competitive is good for the sport, and more fun for the fans.  Speaking of Hocevar’s teammate, let’s talk about Corey LaJoie. He put together a career-best year last season.  Can he continue to build on that?  I would think he’d have to, especially if his equipment is getting better. LM: You’re right. He has to. I believe he will. The theme of LaJoie’s career thus far has been stacking pennies. However, with the buzz surrounding Spire I dare say it’s time to start stacking nickels and dimes. I don’t want to say he’s under pressure to win in 2024, but, a win would validate both his commitment to Spire and vice versa. AC: Yeah, I would agree there. I don’t think it’s a must-win for LaJoie like it is for some other drivers this season.  LaJoie has paid his dues with Spire, sticking with them as they’ve gone through some rough times.  They owe him a couple of years to find his groove with better equipment.  Here’s an interesting question - which driver has a better year?  LaJoie or Hocevar? LM: I’m gonna go with the upset. Hocevar has a slightly better season than LaJoie. With the consistency Carson showed in the 42, imagine what he can do in a program built and geared towards him. Also, lets not forget Zane Smith will drive for Spire this season on loan from TrackHouse Racing. Resources will be heading to several different places. AC: A Loganity hot take! I love it.  I tend to want to agree with you about Hocevar.  He’s shown that he can adapt quickly to stressful situations.  In his limited Cup schedule last year, he had a better average finish than Harrison Burton and Ty Dillon.  LaJoie had a chance (mind you, just one) in premiere equipment, driving for a suspended Chase Elliott, and he finished a disappointing 21st place.  It’s a small sample size for both, but I’m hot on Hocevar this season too. Zane Smith is technically also driving for Spire, you’re right, but I still see him as a TrackHouse property. The battle I’m interested in at Spire is Hocevar vs. LaJoie.  Do any Spire cars make the playoffs this year? LM: I don’t see it. I see them finishing just outside the top 20. It’s still a “win and you’re in” system so you never know. However, I think they need one more season before becoming a legitimate playoff contender. AC: Fair enough. They definitely are the team with the biggest question marks around them coming into this season.  I’m excited to see whether they live up to the hype.  Stay tuned as we continue our Team Preview series - next time we will check out Legacy Motor Club!

(Photo Source: Twitter.com/KazGrala) Press Release | RICK WARE RACING MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 17, 2024) – Rick Ware Racing (RWR) has named Kaz Grala to its 2024 driver lineup with the 25-year-old Boston native piloting the organization’s No. 15 Ford Mustang in 25 NASCAR Cup Series races. Grala comes to RWR with seven Cup Series starts already under his belt, a mark that includes a top-10 finish in his Cup Series debut on Aug. 16, 2020 when he drove to a seventh-place finish on the road course at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. It was a milestone moment in a series of milestones for Grala, beginning with a breakout NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win in the 2017 season opener on Daytona’s 2.5-mile oval. Grala won in just his 10th career Truck Series start, becoming the youngest race winner in Daytona history at 18 years, 1 month and 26 days old. “Kaz Grala is a talented and tenacious driver who brings a lot to our race team,” said Rick Ware, owner, RWR. “He has an incredible work ethic and leverages every opportunity to its full potential. He’s an asset inside and outside of the car who will help make our program better.” Despite his early success, Grala has had to scratch and claw for opportunities. Since running the full Truck Series schedule in 2017 when he finished an impressive seventh in the championship standings, Grala has pieced together an assortment of races across NASCAR’s top-three series – Truck, Xfinity and Cup. It wasn’t until 2023 that Grala was able to run another full season, competing in the Xfinity Series for Sam Hunt Racing, earning nine top-10 finishes for the young team. “I’ve found myself as an underdog at each level of NASCAR, and I feel I thrive in that position,” said Grala, who began racing go karts as a 4-year-old in Massachusetts. “It’s important to get the most out of the car on restarts and in the closing laps of a race, all while taking care of the equipment, and those are my strengths. I also like to be hands-on with the team during the week, involved in what the next step is to advance our program.” The addition of Grala, an accomplished yet hungry racecar driver, and pairing him with crew chief Billy Plourde, is another important move by Ware as he continues to advance his NASCAR operation. Last July, Ware signed Justin Haley, a winner in Cup, Xfinity and Truck, to drive RWR’s No. 51 Ford Mustang. “Kaz is another crucial piece of our organization and for the same reasons we brought Justin Haley on board, we feel Kaz can also contribute immediately,” Ware said. “Kaz wants to make a difference and, above all, he wants to perform. That’s the kind of drive and determination all of us have at RWR.” In 2023, RWR won three NHRA Drag Racing Series events in the Top Fuel class with driver Clay Millican and scored two Progressive American Flat Track wins with rider Briar Bauman. And coming off its 2022 FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) with rider Shane McElrath, RWR continued to score WSX victories between McElrath and teammate Joey Savatgy. “I’ve been really impressed by RWR’s vision and the plan they’ve laid out to get where they want to be,” Grala said. “This sport is all about people, and I’ve learned that having everyone pulling in the same direction is the key to success. Every single person at RWR is a racer, and they want to prove themselves in the Cup Series just as badly as I do, so it’s a perfect fit. I’m excited to see what we’re able to accomplish together. I think we’re going to surprise some people this year.” After racing go-karts, a 9-year-old Grala moved to Bandoleros, where he first experienced oval racing. He proved a quick study, winning track titles in Massachusetts and New York in 2011. Grala moved up to Legends Cars in 2012 and won the Winter Heat championship at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway in the Legend Cars Pro division. From there, it was on to Late Models and Super Late Models, where Grala won his UARA-STARS debut in 2013 at Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway before scoring victories in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series in 2014 at Caraway Speedway in Sophia, North Carolina, and Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. Grala spent 2014-2015 in the ARCA Menards Series East before making a handful of NASCAR Truck Series starts in 2016 that ultimately led to his breakthrough win at Daytona in 2017. It’s culminated with this moment at RWR. “I’ve gotten the chance to race in the Cup Series a handful of times already, so I know how big of a jump it is from the Xfinity Series,” Grala said. “The depth of talent in Cup is steep. It really is the highest level of motorsport in the U.S., with both the quality of teams and the drivers. Last year, the Xfinity Series had a particularly deep field of fulltime competitors, so I feel like 2023 was the right year for me to gain experience ahead of this next step in my career. “Anytime you sit in a Cup car, you have more eyes on you than at any other level. There’s more pressure, but at the same time I feel like there’s something more calming about racing on Sundays, considering I’ve been pushing to make that a reality since I was single digits in age. As a competitor, you love the idea of competing against the best of the best, so I couldn’t be more up for the challenge that’s ahead of me this year.” Grala will make his RWR debut in the exhibition Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum Feb. 4 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. His first regular-season race will be the Ambetter Health 400 Feb. 25 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

(Photo Source: Twitter.com/DeathWishCoffee) Press Release | BEARD MOTORSPORTS MT. PLEASANT, Michigan (Jan. 16, 2024) – Beard Motorsports announced today that Death Wish Coffee will be the primary sponsor for its No. 62 Chevrolet and driver Anthony Alfredo for the 2024 running of the Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup Series season opener Feb. 18 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. Founded in 2012 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Death Wish Coffee brings an attitude and authenticity to everything they do. Refusing to compromise on quality, they are Fair Trade Certified – ensuring fair wages and safe farming practices for their growers, and only the finest beans in their brews. The name itself, Death Wish Coffee, is a testament to the fact that the only way to live life is boldly and outside the lines. “Death Wish Coffee is truly the perfect partner for our race team and for the Daytona 500,” said Amie Beard, executive vice president of Beard Motorsports. “Living life to the fullest is what inspired and drove my dad in his own racing career. It’s why he started Beard Motorsports and what keeps our family coming back for more. We are thrilled to be able to field the No. 62 Death Wish Coffee Chevrolet in the Daytona 500.” While Death Wish Coffee has appeared as a primary sponsor prior to the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, this marks the company’s first time participating in the Great American Race. “The Daytona 500 is monumental in the world of racing, and sports in general,” said Tom Ennis, President and CEO at Death Wish Coffee. “It’s about speed and fortitude, and hitting the gas on life. We fuel that kind of attitude and energy in anyone who drinks our coffee, and we are beyond excited to be part of this year’s race.” For his part, Alfredo is very familiar with the brand as he has partnered with Death Wish Coffee in his NASCAR Xfinity Series endeavors. “Death Wish Coffee was one of my first sponsors when I came into the national series,” Alfredo said. “To take on the Daytona 500 with Beard Motorsports together is a full-circle moment and a huge accomplishment. I am very appreciative of their support to get us here and look forward to an amazing weekend. “Death Wish Coffee has always helped me live up to the fast-paced life that I love both at the track and at home,” Alfredo added. “I’ll continue to be fueled by Death Wish Coffee on race day, for sure.” Beard Motorsports will unveil the No. 62 Death Wish Coffee Chevrolet paint scheme through team social channels in the coming weeks.

Press Release | FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 17, 2024) – Successful business owner, entrepreneur, and investor Carl Ruedebusch will again be the cornerstone partner of Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 Front Row Motorsports (FRM) team during the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season. Ruedebusch will again partner with Ruedebusch Development and Construction and gener8tor to begin the season with more partnerships being developed. Beginning the season for the second consecutive year, gener8tor, a nationally-ranked venture capital firm and accelerator that brings together startup founders, investors, corporations, job seekers, universities, musicians, and artists will serve as the primary sponsor for the first two events for Gilliland: The Clash at the Coliseum at the Los Angeles Coliseum before returning to the “Great American Race,” the Daytona 500 at the Daytona International Speedway. gener8tor will bring a new, bolder look to the new No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse this season. The gener8tor platform includes more than 75 programs spanning startup accelerators, corporate programming, speaker series, conferences, skills accelerators and fellowships. The gener8tor scheme will return throughout the season and are proud to return to the FRM team with Gilliand. “gener8tor is proud to once again be in NASCAR and support FRM and Todd Gilliland,” said Cole Shearer, Vice President, gener8tor Skills Accelerator. “The awareness at marque NASCAR events has introduced people to gener8tor and all our programs that fans can take advantage of. We see it each time Todd and the team are the on track and we are proud to kick off the season again with the 38 team." Also, the Ruedebusch Development and Construction (RDC) colors are back. The full-service commercial construction and real estate development company returns with Gilliland and will be featured on the car throughout various events throughout the season. Ruedebusch has been instrumental in Gilliand’s NASCAR Cup Series career with FRM, leading him to his first top-five in the series and making him one of the sport's most improved drivers last season. “I really enjoy being active in Todd’s and FRM’s development,” said Carl Ruedebusch, Owner, Ruedebusch Development and Construction. “Todd and the team have shown growth over the past two seasons, and we are all hopeful for an even better year. Our partners with our program are seeing gains, too, so it has been a win for everyone.” Gilliland shares in the excitement with continuing his partnership with Ruedebusch and his partners in the new season. “Mr. Ruedebusch, and his partners such as gener8tor, have been some of my biggest supporters since I joined the NASCAR Cup Series,” said Gilliland. “I enjoy seeing the familiar faces and they become a part of our team and our family. I can’t do this without them and I am thankful for all their support and friendship.” Gilliland and the team are currently preparing for The Clash at The Coliseum which will air live nationally on FOX on Sunday, February 4 at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Press Release | TRACKHOUSE RACING CONCORD, North Carolina (Jan. 16, 2024) – Today Trackhouse Racing announced a fresh partnership for the 2024 NASCAR Season with fast-food restaurant brand Wendy’s®, known for high quality hamburgers made with fresh, never frozen beef*. The new partnership calls for the iconic Wendy’s brand to appear in both the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series with Trackhouse drivers, Daniel Suárez, Ross Chastain, and Shane van Gisbergen. Wendy’s will have season-long associate branding on all three driver’s Cup Series Chevrolets during the 2024 calendar year, and two Cup Series primary events starting with Van Gisbergen at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway in April. In the Xfinity Series, Wendy’s will be the primary partner for one race during the three-time Supercars champion’s rookie season. As previously announced, Trackhouse Racing has contracted multi-race winning organization Kaulig Racing to field the Xfinity Series Chevrolets for Van Gisbergen. Wendy's will also serve as the primary sponsor in the season-opener at Daytona International Speedway with 2016 Xfinity Series Champion Suárez. The car and team will be announced later. “At Wendy’s we have a winning track record of showing up for fans by going Biggie with NASCAR,” said Wendy’s Global Chief Marketing Officer, Carl Loredo. “Serving up the best beef in the hamburger game means choosing the best partners. Our fresh partnership with Trackhouse Racing and their family of drivers was an easy decision. See you at the track for the biggiest race weekend of the season in Daytona!" Van Gisbergen, who moved to America in December, doesn’t question where he will be eating when he’s on the road this NASCAR season. “Wendy’s is an iconic brand! It is really cool to move to the U.S. and get to be a part of this partnership from the start,” said Van Gisbergen. “Between my racing schedule and my planned road trips to get to see as much of the United States as possible, I know when I’m looking for a bite to eat on the road, I’ll be making a pit stop at Wendy’s. Racing in NASCAR is a dream, so it is really exciting to have a sponsor who is supporting that dream for me.” No stranger to fan activation at NASCAR tracks, Wendy’s will have an on-site presence in the infield at Daytona. Throughout race weekend, Wendy’s will be serving up free food and exclusive limited-edition swag to motorsports fans at the Daytona 500. Not going to be able to swing being in person at Daytona? You’re in luck. Keep an eye out at your local Wendy’s, something custom might be worthy of sipping on next month.

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 back with another team preview.  Today we’re looking at Wood Brothers Racing.  Their lone entry in the NASCAR Cup Series is the 21 Ford Mustang, being piloted again by Harrison Burton.  Were you surprised to see him back for a third year, Logan? Logan Morris: Honestly, yes. During another era Burton getting a third season wouldn’t be a surprise, but as things stand now it’s a very do-or-die sport. So far, Burton hasn’t impressed. The Wood Bros are still looking for that historic, albeit elusive 100th victory in the Cup Series. This season feels pivotal for Burton if he wants to be in the iconic 21 car long-term. AC: I remember when Matt DiBenedetto was searching for that 100th win for the Wood Bros.  That feels like a lifetime ago.  Part of me is surprised as well, but another part of me appreciates that the team is letting Harrison Burton grow into the role of Cup Series driver. The best development is to race against better drivers and learn from them, right? Maybe they’ve seen enough improvement year-to-year to justify taking a chance on him.  I do agree, though, I imagine the leash is short this year.  He’s going to need to take a big step to stay there long-term.  They do have an alignment with Team Penske, does Penske have any openings coming up any time soon? LM: The Wood Bros caught plenty of flack for choosing Burton to replace DiBenedetto and at this juncture it feels warranted. However, Burton has youth on his side. As far as Team Penske goes, we will go in-depth regarding them in the future, but, in short, I think it’s a huge year for Austin Cindric.  The good news for both Burton and Cindric is no one in the Ford camp is lighting the world on fire to the point they can’t be ignored for a Cup opportunity. AC: That’s fair.  We’ll leave Penske for another day.  Burton finished 2023 just outside of the Top 30 in the standings, is there any way he can break into the Top 25? LM: The easiest way for him to do that would be to get that 100th win for the Wood Bros. We now have six wild card races on the schedule and he’s shown ability on the Superspeedways, so I think it’s possible. As matter of fact, I’ll give you a “Loganity” take Burton will win in 2024. AC: Whew, that’s a little too rich for my blood.  Two years ago Burton finished 3rd at Indianapolis.  Not only is that his only career Top 5, it came at a track that’s no longer on the schedule!  Indianapolis reverts back to the oval this season.  For me, a successful season for him is less reflected in the standings, and more in his equipment.  He had six DNFs in ‘23, and if he can limit that to four, I’ll count that as a win for him and the team. LM: The Indy oval ran much like a Superspeedway in the past, so that may be good news yet. I genuinely believe it’s win or bust for Burton this season. If contending for the occasional win wasn’t good enough for his predecessor, then 2024 is a must-win for him at least as far as staying with the Wood Bros is concerned. AC: I think you may be right.  We shall see as the season plays out.  Stay tuned for our next team preview, where we analyze Spire Motorsports!

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 to another season of NASCAR, Logan.  Hope you had a good holiday break and a merry offseason… Logan Morris:  It’s good to be back! It’s hard to believe we’re on the cusp of another season but here we are! AC: We’ll start with the teams at the back of the pack and make our way forward through the field.  Last season’s slowest team was the 78 of Live Fast Motorsports, but they sold their charter and will be a part-time open team this year.  Next on the list is Rick Ware Racing. LM: We Just had some news regarding them. Journeyman driver JJ Yeley just announced he’ll be focusing on the Xfinity Series this season. Who do you think fills that void? AC: It’s an interesting wrinkle in this somewhat under-the-radar team. For now, the 15 remains open, and likely will have a cast of rotating drivers.  But without Yeley in the fold, their roster is a little smaller.  Do we ever see a day when the 15 has a single full-time driver? LM: I think we could see that day, but I don’t think that is in 2024. I agree with you that the 15 will be spilt between a handful of drivers. If I had to guess, and that’s purely all that it is, but I think Kaz Grala, Ryan Newman, Cole Custer,  and Cody Ware all see time in the 15 this season. AC: Justin Haley made waves last July when he announced that not only was he leaving Kaulig Racing at the end of the season, he was going to be joining RWR in the 51 full-time.  By most accounts this looked like a step back for Haley, what do you think? LM:  On the surface, I would agree. However, let’s not forget RWR has a stronger alliance with RFK Racing this season. What kind of difference could that make? AC: That’s true.  Justin Haley may be playing the long game here, looking to swoop in to Brad Keselowski’s #6 after he retires.  There’s no question that Haley elevates the RWR program this season, though. What would constitute a ‘successful’ season for Rick Ware Racing in 2024? LM: To me, a successful season for them is to get both charters out of the bottom three in the owners standings. That feels very doable with Haley. Can the other car get it done? That remains to be seen. Year after year it feels like NASCAR allows them to keep their charter despite constantly being in the bottom three. If they can avoid that question in 2024 I think that’s a step in the right direction. AC: That’s a good starting point, but I have higher hopes for RWR this season.  Yes, they need to get out of the basement, but RFK showed some real strength last season - that’s got to count for something.  Are the playoffs too high a hurdle for Haley this year? LM: That’s way too high in my estimation. I would expect a year of growing pains and adjustments for Haley. He is always capable of sneaking up and winning a Superspeedway race and he impressed at the street course in Chicago last season, but I would think 25th or better in the final standings would be a tremendous success.  It takes time to build chemistry and a program from the ground up. AC: I tend to agree.  Haley finished 26th in 2023 with an arguably better team in Kaulig Racing. It’ll be hard to top that, but hey - stranger things have happened! All we can hope for is closer competition from RWR in 2024, and I think they’re on the right path.  Any final words? LM: I agree. Any progress at all for a team like RWR is huge and I expect some this season. How much remains to be seen. AC: That’s why we race the races!  Stay tuned for our next team preview, where we discuss Harrison Burton and Wood Brothers Racing.

Press Release | KAULIG RACING Lexington, N.C. (January 12, 2023) – Kaulig Racing and CELSIUS Essential Energy™ announce their continued partnership for the 2024 NASCAR season. CELSIUS will remain the Official Energy Drink Partner of Kaulig Racing, as it has since 2021, and will serve as the primary partner in multiple races with AJ Allmendinger across both the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS). CELSIUS continues to provide Kaulig Racing with Essential Energy™ to fuel the team and its drivers both on and off the track. A disruptor in the rapidly growing performance energy space, CELSIUS is a better-for-you, premium alternative to traditional energy drinks. Made with proven, premium ingredients, 7 Essential Vitamins and zero sugar, CELSIUS was created to help people LIVE FIT, exceed their goals and elevate their everyday lives. “CELSIUS has always been important to everyone at Kaulig Racing,” said team president, Chris Rice. “We encourage all our employees to take time for their health and fitness, and having a long-time partner that not only encourages the same, but aids our employees in doing so, is awesome. It means a lot to us to continue this partnership as we go into our ninth season with CELSIUS.” In 2023, Allmendinger earned CELSIUS their first wins as a primary partner in both the NXS at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), and the NCS at the Charlotte ROVAL. “I’m excited about our continued partnership with CELSIUS,” said Allmendinger. “To see the growth of CELSIUS, even since I joined the team in 2019, has been really special. CELSIUS is the go-to energy drink for my team and I, and it was definitely fun to have it as part of our victory lane celebrations last season. We’re going to have a fun season as this brand continues to grow, and I look forward to representing them on and off the track.” Allmendinger will enter the 66th running of the Daytona 500 in the No. 16 CELSIUS Camaro ZL1. The remainder of CELSIUS’ schedule as a primary partner in both the NCS and NXS will be announced at a later date.

Press Release | RICK WARE RACING MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 16, 2024) – It was last July when Justin Haley announced he would drive for Rick Ware Racing (RWR) in the NASCAR Cup Series beginning in 2024, but other pertinent details such as car number and crew chief were unknown despite the multiyear agreement.   With NASCAR’s 76th season just 18 days away with the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum Feb. 4 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, RWR can confirm that Haley will drive its No. 51 Ford Mustang with crew chief Chris Lawson.   “Justin is an exceptionally talented racecar driver and all of us at RWR are looking forward to having him in our equipment,” said Ware, whose eponymous team celebrated its 20th NASCAR anniversary in 2023. “We’re building RWR into a competitive NASCAR team that is on par with the success we enjoyed last year in drag racing and motorcycle racing. Justin wants to win, Chris Lawson wants to win, and that’s the kind of mindset we need to elevate our NASCAR program.”   In 2023, RWR won three NHRA Drag Racing Series events in the Top Fuel class with driver Clay Millican and scored two Progressive American Flat Track wins with rider Briar Bauman. And coming off its 2022 FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) with rider Shane McElrath, RWR continued to score WSX victories between McElrath and teammate Joey Savatgy.   Haley, a winner across all three of NASCAR’s top national touring series – Cup, Xfinity and Craftsman Truck – is relishing his opportunity with RWR.   “RWR has a long history in this sport and a bright future. Working together will only help us achieve what both me and Rick are looking to do,” Haley said. “Rick and the RWR guys genuinely believe in my ability on the track and back at the shop, and that means the world to me. This is already a great fit for me as a driver looking to take the next step and improve. Having a solid team behind me that truly wants me to be a part of their organization and drive their racecars has given me a lot of confidence.”   It’s confidence on top of confidence for Haley. The 24-year-old from Winamac, Indiana, brings one Cup Series victory to RWR and four NASCAR Xfinity Series wins, three NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series triumphs and five ARCA Menards Series victories along with a championship – the 2016 ARCA Menards Series East title.   “Rick has shared his goal of changing the narrative of RWR by creating a team that is competitive and capable of running up front,” Haley said. “I fully believe in Rick’s vision and admire his dedication to the sport. He’s been a staple in the garage for years and I want to be the guy to see Rick’s vision through and make it a reality.”   Since 2004, RWR has fielded entries across Cup, Xfinity and Truck, making well over 1,300 starts. That tenacity has been embraced by Haley, who is taking a methodical approach to his first season with RWR, but his third fulltime year in Cup.     “There are a lot of factors that will play into our success in 2024. I really see the full year as being broken down into smaller seasons,” Haley said.   “The first few races are great to baseline and see where we are as a team. With a lot of new faces and parts on our cars, it’ll take some time to evaluate our strengths and weaknesses.   “The second stretch of races will be the building phase, where we take what we learned from the first stretch of races and tackle our weaknesses.   “Then in the third stage, we apply those changes and really start to make big strides. That’s where we’ll continue to develop while really starting to make gains and, hopefully, find success.”    Following the non-points Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum, Haley and Lawson kick off their 36-race slate of points-paying events with the 66th Daytona 500 on Feb. 18 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. Both events will be broadcast live on FOX and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Press Release | RFK RACING CONCORD, N.C. (Jan. 16, 2024) – RFK Racing and Castrol have unveiled their schemes for the 2024 season, as Brad Keselowski kicks off the fifth year of partnership at the Clash at the Coliseum (Feb. 4) in the Castrol Edge livery. Celebrating a huge milestone of 125 years of rich history, innovation and meeting the needs of customers and consumers, Castrol has officially launched a bolder look featuring a new logo, label design, and product innovation to meet the world’s evolving needs. RFK and Castrol are celebrating their fifth season together in 2024 as the brand will appear on both Keselowski and Chris Buescher’s Ford Mustangs for several events throughout the season, in addition to serving as the team’s Official Motor Oil Sponsor. For the first time ever, Castrol will appear in the Daytona 500 alongside Keselowski and the No. 6 team, and will debut with Buescher and the No. 17 team at Kansas (May 5). “While this serves as an announcement for fans of our paint schemes, we’re even more thrilled to kick off another successful season with Castrol in 2024,” said Steve Newmark, President, RFK Racing. “Castrol has been one of our anchor partners for years, and to have them on the car for ‘The Great American Race’ will be exciting for all of us as we look to continue some of the Speedway success from years prior. “Last season (Chris) Buescher brought home a big win for Castrol in the backyard of Jack Roush and Ford at Michigan, which further solidified Castrol’s long-standing relationship with us,” Newmark added. “They have been the lynchpin, and driving force, for our sustainability efforts, and help us be better both on and off the track. We’re thrilled to continue showcasing and expanding the partnership together moving forward.”

By Adam Carabine John Force Racing teased a big announcement on Twitter/X earlier on Monday, January 15th, as they were set to release their driver lineup for 2024. Coming as a shock to many, the announcement stated that three-time Funny Car world champion Robert Hight, who just so happens to also be the president of John Force Racing, would be taking the year off for health reasons. In the release, Hight said: "I have to put my health first. Once this is resolved, I'll be back. I’ll be looking forward to racing again, I’m a competitor and can’t wait to get back to doing what I love." Taking over duties in the Cornwell Tools/AAA Camaro SS Funny Car in 2024 is Austin Prock. Prock joined John Force Racing in 2017, and has been a regular Top Fuel Dragster driver for the team. In his statement, he said: "It's been a dream of mine to drive a Funny Car with my family, but this is not the way I hoped it would happen. It's bittersweet." Hight continued: "I know Austin will do a great job in my place for Cornwell Tools, AAA, Chevy and all of the John Force Racing sponsors. I have no doubt he’ll win races.” The 2024 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series kicks off the 2024 season in Gainesville, Florida March 8th.