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Press Release | NHRA After a successful two-day professional event last season, that format will return to Virginia Motorsports Park in 2025 for the fifth annual Virginia NHRA Nationals, which takes place June 20-22 at the standout facility. A year ago, competitors in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series made three qualifying sessions on Saturday as part of the two-day professional race, with eliminations following on Sunday. That format was a hit with both the race teams and fans and will return for the highly anticipated 2025 event. Tickets are currently on sale for the Virginia NHRA Nationals, which is the ninth of 20 races this season. The two-day format gives fans the chance to see three qualifying sessions in one day, giving them a memorable chance to see a full day of 330-mph, 11,000-horsepower action, plus the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge bonus race during the last two sessions of the day. That leads into eliminations, where drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, and Pro Stock Motorcycle will attempt to win a mid-season Wally at one of the quickest tracks on the NHRA tour. Competitors in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series will race on Friday, June 20 at VMP, leading into the two-day extravaganza in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Last season, Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won in Richmond. This year’s event will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations coverage beginning at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 22. Prock’s Richmond win is one the John Force Racing camp will soon not forget. John Force, the legendary 16-time champ and NHRA all-time wins leader, suffered a season-ending crash on race day in Richmond. Prock, who was leading the points, went on to win the event over Bob Tasca III and then claimed his first NHRA Funny Car world championship to end the year. This season, the Funny Car field hopes to end Prock’s dominance in category. Tasca, along with former champs Matt Hagan, Ron Capps, J.R. Todd, and Jack Beckman, who is driving for Force, have their sights set on a win at Virginia Motorsports Park. Kalitta earned his second Virginia NHRA Nationals win last season when he defeated his teammate Shawn Langdon in an all-Kalitta Motorsports final round. Kalitta earned three event wins last season and went on to finish runner-up in the final points standings, a year after winning his first career world title in 2023. Claiming the world championship was Antron Brown, thanks to his six wins in 2024. Other Top Fuel drivers to watch this season will be Justin Ashley, Brittany Force, Steve Torrence, motorsports legend Tony Stewart, and Clay Millican. Last season was another banner year for Pro Stock Motorcycle standout Herrera. With his race win over his Vance & Hines teammate Richard Gadson in Virginia, Herrera broke a 45-year record for most consecutive race wins. His 10th straight race win surpassed the record previously held by NHRA legend Bob Glidden. Herrera continued his dominance through the rest of the season, earning 10 race wins and his second consecutive world championship. Other standouts in the two-wheeled category include Matt and Angie Smith, Chase Van Sant, Hector Arana Jr., and Jianna Evaristo. Along with action in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, fans can also enjoy racing in the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Holley EFI NHRA Factory X, and Pingel Top Fuel Motorcycle, providing a full weekend of non-stop entertainment. A full event schedule will be released in the coming weeks. To purchase tickets to the Virginia NHRA Nationals, visit nhra.evenue.net/events/RV1T. (Photo Courtesy NHRA)

Press Release | VANCE AND HINES MOTORSPORTS Vance & Hines Motorsports has announced its 2025 lineup for the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Pro Stock Motorcycle championship, and once again, two-time and reigning Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Gaige Herrera will be joined by teammate Richard Gadson, who delivered an outstanding rookie season, finishing third in the standings. Herrera, who redefined excellence in 2024 by winning the first six events of the season and 10 overall, is poised to defend his title with the same determination that has made him a standout in the sport. “Even though we had an incredible season in 2024, I know the road ahead will be even tougher,” said Herrera. “The competition will be coming for me, but I have absolute confidence in my team. This group never stops working, and their dedication has been proven time and again. I’m excited to defend my title and show up ready for the fight.” Gadson, a veteran of the sport with championship titles in XDA, NHDRO, SEMDRA, and ManCup, made waves in his rookie Pro Stock season, reaching final rounds in Richmond, Reading, and Charlotte. He also claimed a victory in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge in Norwalk, proving he’s a formidable contender. “I’m honored to ride for Vance & Hines Motorsports again this year,” said Gadson. “My rookie season was an incredible learning experience, and I’m eager to apply those lessons in 2025. Competing in NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle was once just a dream, but now, it’s my reality — and I’m ready to make the most of it.” Vance & Hines Motorsports owner Terry Vance shared his enthusiasm for the team’s future: “We’ve assembled the right group of riders and crew to continue pushing the limits in Pro Stock Motorcycle racing. With the expertise of Andrew [Hines] and Eddie [Krawiec], Gaige’s dominance, and Richard’s impressive growth, we’ve solidified our position as a powerhouse team. I can’t wait to see what Gaige and Richard can accomplish on our RevZilla/Motul/Suzuki Hayabusas in 2025." (Photo Courtesy NHRA)

Press Release | NHRA PHOENIX (Feb. 10, 2025) – In 40 days, it will be time to celebrate four decades of incredible NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series action at revitalized Firebird Motorsports Park, as the 40th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals will take place March 21-23 at the fan-favorite facility. For 40 years, the NHRA Arizona Nationals has been a must-see early-season race, providing incredible performances and recording-breaking runs for some of the most passionate fans on the NHRA tour. Fans and race teams can also look forward to some impressive improvements at the facility, including a freshly repaved dragstrip for the standout event in 2025. The “Duel in the Desert” remains a major highlight on the NHRA circuit as all the top stars in Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock will compete on one of NHRA’s biggest stages. It starts with two qualifying sessions on both Friday and Saturday, leading into eliminations on Sunday at the historic venue. On a weekend loaded with celebrations for the 40th annual race, the Phoenix event will also feature the first Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge of the 2025 season. The popular specialty program, which brings bonus points, a bonus purse and competitive racing to Saturday qualifying, will feature the semifinalists of the season-opener in Gainesville with plenty on the line. Tony Schumacher, J.R. Todd and Erica Enders each collected Mission Challenge wins in their respective categories last year. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) all claimed wins at the NHRA Arizona Nationals in 2024, with Prock and Anderson both finishing the year as world champions. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations coverage at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 23. Langdon, a former Top Fuel champion, earned his first win last season when he defeated Justin Ashley in the Phoenix final. Langdon finished fourth in the points standings and if he wants to earn a second Phoenix title, he’ll need to get past the 2024 reigning champion Antron Brown, who is a three-time Firebird Motorsports Park winner. Other contenders to watch will be former champs Doug Kalitta, Clay Millican and Brittany Force, as well as 2024 Rookie of the Year Tony Stewart. Prock’s Phoenix triumph marked his first career NHRA Funny Car win. From there, Prock was dominant in 2024, rolling to eight wins on the season and his first world championship. Prock also earned a record-breaking 15 No. 1 qualifier positions in 2024 for John Force Racing, including the Phoenix race. The Funny Car field continues to be packed with talent, including Prock’s John Force Racing teammate Jack Beckman as well as former champions Matt Hagan and Ron Capps. Anderson earned his sixth world championship at the NHRA Finals in a winner-take-all final over his KB Titan teammate Dallas Glenn. The 2024 NHRA Arizona Nationals also featured that same matchup, with Anderson again earning the win. Other Pro Stock stars competing in Phoenix include Elite Motorsports teammates Aaron Stanfield, six-time champion of Erica Enders and five-time champ of Jeg Coughlin Jr. The NHRA Arizona Nationals also features thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series and the Legends Nitro Series. Fans can also expect exciting performances from Team “Muy Caliente” and Curt White "Iceman" in their Jet Cars. Fans will also be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits. The stage hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, autograph sessions, music and much more. Race fans at Firebird Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final thrilling experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs from their favorite drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere of interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying features two rounds at 2 and 4:30 p.m. PT on Friday, March 21, and the final two rounds on Saturday, March 22 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The finals of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge take place at the end of final qualifying in each category. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, March 23. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 8 p.m. ET. on Friday and 12 p.m. on Sunday, leading into eliminations at 6:30 p.m. ET. Fans can purchase tickets to the 40th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals at Firebird Motorsports Park by visiting www.nhra.com/tickets. For more information about the NHRA, including the 2025 schedule, visit www.nhra.com. (Photo Courtesy NHRA)

Press Release | SAM HUNT RACING Sam Hunt Racing (SHR) announced today that Jeffrey Earnhardt will return to SHR to pilot the No. 24 ForeverLawn GR Supra for multiple races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) in 2025. Earnhardt and ForeverLawn’s kickoff race will take place at Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday, April 26th. “I couldn’t be more excited to continue our relationship with Jeffrey and the ForeverLawn family throughout 2025,” said Sam Hunt, owner of Sam Hunt Racing. “Jeffrey is the ultimate teammate and takes a lot of pride in the development of SHR, which means a ton to me. We also know he can deliver in our GR Supras, and will give him all the tools we can to be successful on the track. He has become like family to our staff, and everyone in the building wants to see him succeed. I’m so grateful to Dale and the entire Karmie family for recognizing our shared vision and alignment of core values between SHR and ForeverLawn. It’s going to be a fun year watching Jeffrey run up front.” As a 35-year-old NXS veteran, Earnhardt will compete with SHR and the Toyota GAZOO Racing family for a third season. Overall, he has 174 starts in the NXS, racking up two top-5 and six top-10 finishes, including one pole starting position. Earnhardt competed in six races for Sam Hunt Racing in 2024, which included a top-10 finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway in February. “I’m very excited to have ForeverLawn back as a partner this year,” said Jeffrey Earnhardt. “They are family to me, and I know Sam and everyone on the team feels the same way. They continue to grow the company and launch incredible products in the synthetic turf world. After last season’s races with the Sam Hunt team and the speed they showed, it only made sense to run it back. I can’t express how thankful I am to be able to drive their cars. I’m grateful for the support Toyota has given SHR to grow as a team and to me to continue developing as a driver. We have several races on the calendar, and I look forward to the first race.” ForeverLawn continues its multi-year support of Jeffrey Earnhardt, a partnership that began in 2020. ForeverLawn is a premier provider of synthetic grass solutions across the United States and Canada. Manufacturing and installing specialized landscape solutions, ForeverLawn has several brands, including LandScapes, Playground Grass, K9Grass, SportsGrass, and GolfGreens. “We are excited to be starting our sixth year as a sponsor and partner with Jeffrey Earnhardt,” says Dale Karmie, co-founder of ForeverLawn. “He is an incredible ambassador for our brand, not only in the way he races but also in how he engages with the fans. We are thrilled as well to be back with SHR for our third season. Sam and the team always bring fast cars to the track and are a great group of people to have as partners.” Earnhardt’s full race schedule with SHR will be released at a later time. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | DGM RACING DGM Racing is excited to announce a strategic alliance with Jesse Iwuji Motorsports for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season. This collaboration brings together DGM Racing’s long-standing success in the motorsports industry and Jesse Iwuji Motorsports’ vision for growth and opportunity, as they join forces to strengthen and grow their organizations. US Naval Officer and NASCAR driver Jesse Iwuji formed Jesse Iwuji Motorsports alongside Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, and entrepreneur Matt Casto in 2021. Powered by Chevrolet, Jesse Iwuji Motorsports will make its return to full-time racing for the first time since the 2022 NXS season. Together, DGM Racing and Jesse Iwuji Motorsports will leverage shared resources to maximize their on-track performance and off-track impact. “This year will be an exciting year aligning our group, resources, and assets to put together the best on and off-track product we can with DGM x JIM,” said Jesse Iwuji, co-owner of Jesse Iwuji Motorsports. “In 2025, we have formed a strong alliance with DGM, who has a long-standing, proven track record of results. Our efforts as a team remain the same: to bring our resources together to consistently compete, generate opportunities to help our brand partners and drivers grow, and inspire others to stay strong enough long enough while chasing their dreams.” DGM Racing, a family-owned and operated team, has built its reputation on integrity and hard work as they continue to turn heads and exceed expectations in the NXS. With this alliance, both teams aim to enhance their capabilities collectively and continue growing within the sport. “Our team is really looking forward to working with Jesse Iwuji Motorsports for many years to come,” shared Mario Gosselin, owner of DGM Racing. “Jesse and his team share our passion for racing and competition. Our combined resources and shared desire to achieve beyond our limits create the perfect recipe for success. I’m confident that our partnership will continue to open doors that take our team to the next level.” More details regarding the alliance, upcoming race plans, and partner announcements to follow. DGM Racing and Jesse Iwuji Motorsports will field two Chevrolets full time and a third part-time entry during the NXS season, kicking off the alliance in the season-opener race at Daytona International Speedway. DGM Racing has already announced it will field three entries in Daytona, Ryan Ellis in the No. 71, Josh Bilicki in the No. 91, and CJ McLaughlin in the No. 92 Chevy Camaros. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | NIECE MOTORSPORTS Christian Rose, who was originally scheduled to compete in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series for Niece Motorsports, will step back from full-time competition ahead of the season opening race at Daytona International Speedway. Due to unforeseen sponsorship changes, Rose has relinquished driving duties of the No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST effective immediately, but will remain associated with Niece Motorsports as he continues his pursuit of competing at the highest levels of NASCAR. Bayley Currey will serve as the interim driver of the No. 44 Chevrolet beginning at Daytona. Current team partner, Masked Owl Technologies, has stepped up to serve as Currey’s primary partner for the season-opening race. “Unfortunately, with the high costs associated with running a race team, we had to make this difficult business decision to keep everyone’s best interests in mind,” said Cody Efaw, General Manager of Niece Motorsports. “We would love to see Christian compete for us once funding is secured on his end, and greatly appreciate our existing partners at Masked Owl Technologies for stepping up their commitment to Bayley and our company as a whole.” (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY Daytona International Speedway announced today that Anthony Mackie has been named the grand marshal for the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500. Mackie portrays Captain America in Marvel Studios’ new film Captain America: Brave New World, releasing Feb. 14 in theaters. “It’s a privilege to welcome Anthony Mackie as the Grand Marshal for the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500,” said Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher. “Anthony’s energy and presence will add to the excitement, especially with Captain America: Brave New World set to release the same weekend. Having him deliver the most famous words in motorsports before the green flag waves will make for a truly unforgettable moment.” Mackie appeared in previous Marvel Studios movies as Sam Wilson, including Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Ant-Man, Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame. He also appeared in the Marvel Television series The Falcon and The Winter Soldier where he officially takes the mantle of Captain America. Captain America: Brave New World is the 35th film from Marvel Studios. Mackie made his on-screen debut in the 2002 film 8 Mile with Eminem. Other notable films Mackie has starred in include The Hurt Locker, Real Steel, The Adjustment Bureau, Pain & Gain (with last year’s DAYTONA 500 grand marshal Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), The Banker and more. In television, he’s appeared in the Netflix hit show Black Mirror, the television film All The Way, portraying Martin Luther King Jr., and Altered Carbon. He also stars in and executive produces the Peacock streaming series Twisted Metal. The action begins on Wednesday, Feb. 12, with DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light, setting the field for the Duel At DAYTONA, which occurs the following night on Thursday, Feb. 13, where drivers will battle it out for a spot in the coveted Great American Race. The season-opening races for all three NASCAR national series as well as the ARCA Menards Series kick off on Friday, Feb. 14, starting with the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Fresh From Florida 250. Saturday, Feb. 15, will feature an action-packed double-header with the ARCA Menards Series Ride the ‘Dente 200 Presented by Chili’s followed by the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 300. Then Sunday, Feb. 16, directly following GRAMMY® Award Winning Artist Pitbull’s pre-race show, the USAF Thunderbirds will perform their flyover, preparing both fans and drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series for an intense battle in the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500. For more information regarding the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | JOE GIBBS RACING Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) announces plans to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Bobby Labonte’s 2000 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Labonte piloted the No. 18 Interstate Batteries car to four wins, 19 top-five, and 24 top-10 finishes in 2000, earning JGR its first NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Over his 11-year career with JGR, Labonte won 21 races with the organization and was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in the same class as his former car owner Joe Gibbs in 2020. “It is hard to believe it has been 25 years since we won the 2000 Championship,” said Labonte. “In many ways, it doesn’t seem like it has been that long! That season was a special time where everything came together just right, and I have so many great memories and stories from that year. I am excited celebrate with the team and the fans one more time!” Last year, JGR announced Labonte would re-join the organization in a consulting role, serving the organization across several areas of its operations including as an ambassador with partners and fans. JGR will release a unique content series throughout the 2025 season to commemorate his championship season with reflections from Labonte as well as former teammates, JGR employees and sponsors. In addition, the team will launch new and limited-edition merchandise available at the Legends hauler at all tracks starting this week at Daytona. Labonte will make the first of several special public appearances during the season this Saturday, February 15 at 9:30 a.m. at the Legends hauler in the fan zone at Daytona International Speedway. The new and limited-edition merchandise will also be available on JGR’s online store and through BobbyLabonte.com. Labonte’s 2000 Championship winning racecar, which also captured the 2000 Brickyard 400, will be on display in a special Brickyard winners exhibit at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum starting in April 2025. Through a partnership with Notable Live, Labonte will connect virtually with fans throughout the year and allow fans and collectors access to purchase twenty-five items out of his personal memorabilia collection. “We are thrilled to celebrate the anniversary of Bobby’s championship season this year,” said Gibbs. “He has been such a big part of our history and our success and continues to be a real asset to our team today. That first championship meant so much to our organization and really set the stage for the success that followed.” (Photo Credit: Donald Miralle /Allsport)

Press Release | LEGACY MOTOR CLUB What happens when a seven-time NASCAR champ and a basketball Hall of Famer settle their playful online banter with a friendly wager? In this case, one of them gets to “dress” the other for Daytona. Carvana, an industry pioneer for buying and selling used cars online, has brought together Jimmie Johnson and Shaquille O’Neal in the best way possible—by helping Shaq settle the score with his own custom paint scheme for Johnson’s No. 84 Toyota. The design, inspired by O’Neal’s basketball career, was unveiled at Shaq’s Fun House in New Orleans on February 7 and will debut during qualifying for the DAYTONA 500 on February 12. "Jimmie and I had a ton of fun putting this together,” said O’Neal. “The car looks amazing, and I can’t wait to see him tear up the track next Sunday. Lucky for him, he’s got a better shot at victory lane than at the free-throw line!” Shaq’s take on the No. 84 Toyota draws inspiration from his classic 1990s uniform, complete with signature pinstripes, a sleek colorway, and the iconic “Dunkman” logo taking center stage on the hood of the car. If there was any doubt about who won this round, one look at the car makes it crystal clear. “I figured our little feud would stay online, but next thing I know, Shaq’s challenging me to a free throw contest and calling the shots on my paint scheme,” said Jimmie Johnson, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. “I have to admit—he’s got style. It’s bold, it’s iconic, and I can’t wait to take it to the track.” “Jimmie and Shaq are two of the most legendary athletes in their sports, and when they started going back and forth, we knew something fun had to come out of it,” said Ryan Keeton, Carvana co-founder and Chief Brand Officer. “By blending the worlds of basketball and NASCAR, we’re bringing together two high-energy arenas and two iconic athletes to create something truly unforgettable for fans of both sports.” Fans can catch Shaq and Johnson’s No. 84 Toyota in action for the first time on February 16, 2025, at Daytona International Speedway. The race is set to broadcast on FOX at 2:30 p.m. ET. For an exclusive first look at the new design and for highlights from the race, follow Carvana Racing on Instagram and X. (Photo Courtesy Legacy Motor Club)

Press Release | PERFORMANCE RACING NETWORK Today, the Performance Racing Network (PRN) announced the launch of “Kyle Petty’s Back Then Again Country Countdown with Charlie and Debbie.” The show features third-generation race car driver, philanthropist, and musician Kyle Petty, along with the hosts of one of the nation’s top-rated afternoon country radio shows, Charlie and Debbie of Country 103.7 (WSOC) in Charlotte, N.C. “Kyle Petty’s Back Then Again Country Countdown with Charlie and Debbie” will feature a weekly look back at the top 20 Country songs of the current week from years past, intertwined with Pop Culture history from that week and great stories from the show’s three hosts. While Petty is most known for his life in NASCAR, he has a deep-rooted passion for country music and has made a name for himself as a musician. Growing up at the racetrack, a traveling preacher gifted Petty his first guitar at age 12. He soon began writing his own music in high school and, through the years, found creative influences in artists and songwriters such as Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Carole King, James Taylor, Harry Chapin, and Jim Croce. A seasoned performer, Petty has played for audiences big and small and recently performed on the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage. “I am as excited for this new chapter as I ever was at the start of every new NASCAR season,” said Petty. “Everyone knows I love racing, but I have loved country music for just as long. Watching Marty Robbins sing at the Opry and drive a race car opened up a world of possibilities for a 12 year old from Level Cross, N.C. I have been blessed to do both in my life. “And working with Charlie and Debbie on this project is icing on the cake. They are amazing broadcasters, and I can’t wait to go ‘back then again’ with them every week.” Charlie and Debbie have spent decades entertaining audiences on Country 103.7 (WSOC) in Charlotte, N.C. The married couple’s award-winning career in country radio has earned them many accolades, but they find the most joy in storytelling and connecting with fans. “We are beyond thrilled to team up with PRN and Kyle Petty for this exciting new project,” said Charlie and Debbie. “NASCAR and country music have always shared a loyal fan base, so this collaboration makes perfect sense. And you can’t mention NASCAR without immediately thinking of the Petty name. So, having the opportunity to partner with Kyle Petty is truly an honor. We’re already having so much fun working together, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone.” “Kyle Petty’s Back Then Again Country Countdown with Charlie and Debbie” will debut on February 1, 2025, on over 180 stations nationwide. For a list of stations, visit GoPRN.com. (Photo Courtesy Performance Racing Network)

Press Release | GREEN RIVER WHISKEY Green River Whiskey is proud to announce its partnership as the primary sponsor of the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet with NY Racing Team and NASCAR driver J.J. Yeley as they take on qualifiers for 2025 Daytona 500. The sponsorship marks a milestone for Green River Whiskey—its first venture into modern motorsports—aligning with the brand’s remarkable revival story, Owensboro, Kentucky’s rich NASCAR heritage and a bold vision for the future. With roots dating back to 1885, Green River Whiskey has overcome prohibition, shifting consumer trends, and natural disasters to rise once again as one of the fastest-growing American Whiskey brands. Reintroduced in 2022, Green River is rapidly expanding, poised for distribution in 45 states this year with a range of expressions offering quality and value, straight from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. Later this month the brand will launch its first major national advertising campaign in more than 100 years, pairing its rich history with a sense of authenticity and approachability that sets the brand apart from competition in the premium whiskey category. As the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet takes to the track in its striking green regalia—a nod to the green flag that signals racing’s most heightened moments—Green River Whiskey is embracing the thrill of the Daytona 500 with the same spirit of resilience and ambition that fuels its comeback. The sponsorship will see Green River Whiskey prominently featured on Yeley’s No. 44 Chevrolet as he races to qualify for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 on February 16, 2025, at 2:30 PM ET, broadcast live on FOX. The Daytona 500 is renowned for its unpredictability, where the unexpected is the norm. The race’s history is filled with dramatic moments and surprise victories, an appropriate metaphor for Green River’s own journey of overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities. “The Daytona 500 is more than just a race—it’s a proving ground for perseverance, skill, and a little bit of luck,” said Pete Marino, President of Bardstown Bourbon and Green River Distilling Co. “The horseshoe, a universal symbol of luck, has always been a part of the brand’s iconography and our bottle. On the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet, it’s a symbol that we’re ready to chase history at the Great American Race.” For J.J. Yeley, this partnership represents more than just a sponsorship—it’s about seizing an opportunity to make a statement. “I couldn’t be more excited to team up with Green River Whiskey for this monumental Daytona race,” said Yeley. “Their story of resilience, growth, and passion for their craft is exactly what it takes to compete at this level. Daytona is where legends are made, and with Green River Whiskey on board, we’re ready to take on the challenge and fight our way into the big race.” Green River is beloved and active in its community and known as “The Pride of Owensboro,” a region ripe with NASCAR heritage. Among a number of industry contributors, Green River shares a hometown with NASCAR legends Darrell and Michael Waltrip, both Daytona 500 winners who emerged as formidable competitors in the 1970’s and whose careers in racing continue today. As Green River Whiskey races toward its goal of becoming a top-10 American Whiskey brand, this sponsorship underscores its commitment to expanding its reach, investing in growth, and embracing bold new chapters. From the back bar to the track, Green River Whiskey is a brand built on determination and a willingness to take risks—because in racing, in business, and in life, nothing is guaranteed, but anything is possible. (Photo Courtesy Green River Whiskey)

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) Celsius has announced that they will return as a sponsor for Jeb Burton and Jordan Anderson Racing in 2025. They will back the No. 27 Chevrolet for three races, continuing their partnership that started a few years ago. It's great to see Celsius maintain strong relationships with drivers, like they have with others such as Corey LaJoie. We’re excited to see Jeb Burton and Celsius team up for another season. Make sure to stay tuned for more news and updates, and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button!

Press Release | AKINORI PERFORMANCE NC veteran NASCAR driver Akinori Ogata is proud to announce the formation of his own Truck Series team. The team will run the #63 Toyota Tundra TRD in select events in 2025, the number pays homage to former NASCAR team owner Mike Mittler who Akinori made many starts for early in his career. In addition to Kyowa Industrial, the team will also have Mooneyes, YKK AP, and others return to partner with Akinori. Ogata originally from Yokohama, Japan has run 25 races over his NASCAR career with a best finish of 17th at Atlanta. The team will run a limited schedule this year beginning in Atlanta on February 22nd. Additional races for the entry will be announced at a later date. The team can confirm that NASCAR Euro Series driver Kenko Miura will drive at the road courses for the team Akinori said of the opportunity “This is a huge opportunity for me, but this will be a huge challenge this season” He continued by saying: “I have a great Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and great help. I’m ready to fight all season” Follow along with the teams journey on social media by following Akinori on Social Media & his website: https://www.akinoriogata.com/ (Photo Credit: Logan Riely/Getty Images)

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) Veteran NASCAR racer Norm Benning has no plans to retire from the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. He intends to enter his truck in multiple races, starting with the Daytona Truck Race. Norm, a Pennsylvania native, is one of the last links to racing legends like Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty, with whom he raced in 1989. He will also race in Martinsville and Talladega later this year. We’re excited to see Norm continue to compete, and we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!