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By Adam Carabine Young’s Motorsports One full-time entry in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series   Truck No. 02 Mason Massey (unconfirmed at the time of publishing) Mason Massey in the No. 02 Truck at WWT Raceway in 2024 - Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images 2024 Stats Mason Massey was originally slated to run the entire season in the 02 truck last year, but eventually the ride was shared between six different drivers Final Standings Position – 30th  Best 2024 Finish – P11 at Martinsville, Mason Massey Points – 263 Average Finish – 24.81   Career Truck Series Stats – Mason Massey Starts – 30 Wins – 0 Best Career Season Finish Position – N/A   2025 Hopes and Expectations Young’s Motorsports runs the single full-time entry in the Craftsman Truck Series, but they also run a few other part-time trucks as well.  While the majority of the focus is likely on their full-time entry, it is possible that the other part-time rides can take away some funding from their flagship truck.  Last year the No. 02 Truck didn’t break into the Top 10 once, so they’re hoping that whoever is driving it in 2025 can accomplish that.  Otherwise, they’re likely looking at a Top-25 team.

By Ryan Wu Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber Two entries in Formula One   Car No. 5 Nico Hulkenberg Photo from www.x.com/hulkhulkenberg 2024 Stats Nico Hulkenberg drove for MoneyGram Haas in 2024 Final Standings Position – 11th  Best 2024 Finish – 6th at the Austrian Grand Prix Points – 41   Career F1 Stats – Nico Hulkenberg Starts – 227 Wins – 0 Podiums – 0   ----------   Car No. 27 Gabriel Bortoleto – this will be his first year in Formula One Photo from www.x.com/gabortoleto85 2025 Hopes and Expectations In their final year before transitioning to Audi, Sauber introduces an entirely new driver lineup. Nico Hulkenberg, a seasoned veteran, joins the team after an impressive season with Haas, where he scored points in nine races. Alongside him is Gabriel Bortoleto, a rising talent backed by Fernando Alonso and the reigning Formula 2 Champion.   The 2025 season will likely serve as a testing ground for Sauber to evaluate Bortoleto's potential. With a two-year contract, he is positioned to be one of Audi’s drivers in 2026. Having Hulkenberg as an experienced teammate provides Bortoleto with a valuable opportunity to learn and develop.   Bold prediction   Sauber doubles their points from the previous year but still finishes last in the standings.

By Adam Carabine Young’s Motorsports - Xfinity Series One full-time entry in the NASCAR Xfinity Series   Car No. 42 Leland Honeyman Jr. Photo from www.x.com/youngsmotorsports 2024 Stats Leland Honeyman Jr. was in this ride full-time in 2024. Final Standings Position – 22nd in Xfinity Points Best 2024 Finish – P4 at Talladega Points – 457 Average Finish – 23.45   Career Xfinity Stats Starts – 41 Wins – 0 Best Career Season Finish Position – 22nd in 2024   2025 Hopes and Expectations After Honeyman’s pleasant surprise of a 2024 season behind the 42 car, he’s going to want to build on that momentum and push for regular Top 20s.  Having the stability of a full-time ride is helpful, and Leland Honeyman Jr. knows the perils of ride-hopping.  His 2023 Xfinity season was spent with three different teams across five different car numbers.  Expectations can remain fairly low for this smaller team, but they’ll be looking to improve on their 2024 campaign.

By Adam Carabine Kaulig Racing (Cup Series) Two full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series   Car No. 16 AJ Allmendinger AJ Allmendinger - Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images 2024 Stats The 16 car was shared between five different drivers in 2024.  Allmendinger takes over the ride full-time in 2025. Final Standings Position – 28th  Best 2024 Finish – P2 at Watkins Glen, Shane Van Gisbergen Points – 545 Average Finish – 23.36   Career Cup Series Stats – AJ Allmendinger Starts – 446 Wins – 3 Best Career Season Finish Position – 13th in 2014 with JTG-Daugherty Racing    ------------   Car No. 10 Ty Dillon Ty Dillon at the 2023 Daytona 500 - Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images 2024 Stats Last season, the second car for Kaulig was the No. 31, driven by Daniel Hemric Final Standings Position – 30th  Best 2024 Finish – P9, four times.  At Talladega, Dover, Nashville and Daytona Points – 515 Average Finish – 22.97   Career Cup Series Stats – Ty Dillon Starts – 245 Wins – 0 Best Career Season Finish Position – 24th in 2017 and 2019 with Germain Racing   2025 Hopes and Expectations Unfortunately, Kaulig’s Cup Series teams have not had the success their Xfinity Series program has had.  Whether it’s a case of them pushing more funding to the Xfinity side, or not having as much success learning the Next-Gen Car in the Cup Series, the fact remains that they have been less consistent in NASCAR’s top series.  Moving AJ Allmendinger back up to the Cup Series certainly gives them a shot at any of the road courses, and while Ty Dillon’s talent has yet to fully blossom, he likely brings some solid funding with him that could push them over the edge and get them a car in the playoffs.

Press Release | NHRA, JCM RACING Alexis DeJoria is taking her talents to Joe Maynard’s JCM Racing team for the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. DeJoria will join Maynard’s multicar operation, where she will pilot the Bandero Premium Tequila Funny Car. DeJoria previously drove for Del Worsham and the DC Motorsports team, where she advanced to the final round seven times, including powering to victory at the 2021 Bristol event during the team’s run from 2020 through the 2024 season. Previously, she competed under the Kalitta Motorsports banner from 2011 through 2017. “First and foremost, I want to share my appreciation for Del Worsham and all he has done for me and my career,” DeJoria said. “He has been with me since day one. I licensed in his Funny Car way back in 2011. He was my first crew chief at Kalitta Motorsports. Del and I have really been in the trenches as teammates. He’s my mentor, my closest confidante, and, really, my brother. We had several candid conversations over these last few months about the future of the team. He expressed wanting to take some time to reevaluate the direction of his career, and I wholeheartedly support that. “I’m really looking forward to this next chapter in my career, competing as a member of the JCM Racing team,” she added. “It’s been many years since I was part of a multicar operation, and I’m excited for that opportunity. From my very first conversation with Joe about us potentially teaming up, I knew this was going to be a good fit. His enthusiasm for the sport is incredible, and the impact he has made on this industry in just a few years’ time is undeniable. I have unfinished business on the track, and I have no doubt our Bandero team will be dialed in and ready to perform when we get to Gainesville for the Gatornationals season opener in two months.” DeJoria is a six-time Funny Car national event winner, including her victory from the prestigious 60th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, and brings nearly two decades of experience to JCM Racing. Before making her professional debut at the 2011 Dallas event, DeJoria also found success competing in the NHRA’s Super Comp and Top Alcohol categories. With her two Sportsman wins, she is an eight-time race winner overall and is the only driver to own the trifecta of Super Comp, Top Alcohol Funny Car, and Funny Car victories. She also became the first woman to clock a sub-four-second Funny Car pass during the 2014 NHRA Winternationals. “It’s clear to me that Alexis is a racer through and through,” said Maynard, who successfully launched his JCM Racing team at the 2022 NHRA Northwest Nationals and went on to win that event in his first weekend of team ownership. “We’re both here for the love of the sport, and that’s important to me. That’s why my family and I first started our team to begin with. We were fans first, then sponsors, and then team owners. That’s how we felt we could best support NHRA Drag Racing, and Alexis shares that same love of the sport. I also want to share my gratitude to Del for making this transition process so smooth. As a fellow team owner and friend, I have nothing but respect for him. “We’re very excited to have Alexis in our stable this year. She’s hungry for race wins and a championship, and we’d love nothing more than to give her the tools and support to go out there and become NHRA’s first female Funny Car world champion.” DeJoria will make her JCM Racing debut at the NHRA preseason test session scheduled at Gainesville Raceway prior to the season-opening Amalei Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. Her crew chief, along with the full 2025 JCM Racing driver lineup, will be announced at a later date. (Photo Courtesy NHRA)

Press Release | JOE GIBBS RACING Joe Gibbs Racing announced today that four-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion Justin Bonsignore will drive the team’s No. 19 Toyota GR Supra in five NASCAR Xfinity Series races in 2025. Bonsignore made his Xfinity Series debut for JGR last June at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Despite having no practice or qualifying laps, the Holtsville, New York, native found his way into the top five before contact on a late-race restart relegated him to a 22nd-place finish. The 36-year-old driver is no stranger to success on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. He has racked up 45 victories, 130 top-five finishes, 169 top-10s, 33 pole awards, and 5,442 laps led in 226 career starts. In 2024, Bonsignore posted five victories on the way to his fourth career championship. He has not finished lower than fourth in the final rankings in the past nine seasons. “When we had the opportunity to work with the Joe Gibbs Racing team at New Hampshire last year, it was a perfect pairing,” Bonsignore said. “As soon as that weekend was over, we started looking at options to run a larger schedule in 2025 and it all came together. When you work with a team like JGR, you know you’re going to have a car in contention to win every race you run. We’re looking forward to having some fun and chasing trophies.” Bonsignore is looking to add his name to an impressive list of drivers who have won for the JGR Xfinity Series program. In the team’s history, JGR owns 214 wins, including 11 in 2024. Since the team’s inception, 23 different drivers have taken JGR to victory lane in the Xfinity Series, including 14 drivers who claimed their first career victory in the series driving for JGR. The organization has won four Xfinity Series driver championships and six owner’s championships. “We’re excited to have Justin back in our car in 2025,” said Steve de Souza, Executive Vice President of Xfinity Series and Development for JGR. “He has proven himself over and over again in the modifieds and he did a great job for us at New Hampshire with no track time before the race started. We’re looking forward to seeing what he can do with more opportunities to adapt to the Xfinity cars and working with the same team multiple times this season.” The No. 19 team’s full driver schedule will be announced at a later date. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | SAM HUNT RACING Sam Hunt Racing (SHR) announces today that 23-year-old Dean Thompson will pilot the No. 26 Toyota GR Supra full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) in 2025 and compete for Rookie of the Year honors. Thompson’s continued year-over-year growth in performance and SHR’s individual success create a foundation for a seamless partnership heading into 2025. “I’m very excited to join the Sam Hunt Racing group and continue to pursue my dreams in NASCAR,” said Dean Thompson. “The team made me feel at home after the two races we shared last year. Everything clicked with us, and we are both in a spot where we could fulfill each other’s needs to help our growth as a race team and driver. I’m lucky to have this opportunity to take the next step, which most can only dream of reaching, and I’m grateful to share it with such an awesome group of people.” Thompson, an Anaheim, California native, began racing at five, racking up wins across the country in quarter midgets until the age of 9. Throughout his middle childhood, Thompson focused his efforts outside of racing, including a love for hockey; however, a trip to Auto Club Speedway at 15 changed Thompson’s entire future. At 16, Thompson hung up his hockey gear and strapped on a racing helmet once again, making stock car racing his career. Quickly, he climbed the ladder at tracks out west, including Irwindale Speedway, where he competed in the final race of the track’s history on December 21, 2024. Thompson had a breakout year in 2020, clinching the Irwindale Late Model Track Championship and the California State Title. He was also honored as the Southwest Tour Series Rookie of the Year. Building on that success, he aimed for a full season in the ARCA Menards West Series 2021. In 2022, Thompson advanced to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) full-time after making a single start in 2021. He is preparing for his fourth season of full-time NASCAR national series competition, making his debut at the Xfinity Series level. Thompson has collected two top-five and 11 top-10 finishes. Over the 2024 season, his average starting position improved 2.4 positions while his overall finishing position average improved by 3.5 positions compared to the 2023 season, showing continuous growth behind the wheel. Sam Hunt Racing has been competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series since its debut in 2019, and each season, the team’s performance has consistently strengthened. 2024 was a breakout season for the young team, bringing its strongest on-track performance yet. “We’re all excited to bring Dean into the SHR family to develop in the Xfinity Series full-time in 2025,” says Sam Hunt, owner of Sam Hunt Racing. “He is extremely tough, has a great personality, and works hard behind the scenes to make the most of his opportunities. As in any rookie, Dean understands the challenge that awaits, but he is completely committed to becoming a well-rounded, mature race car driver who can put himself in a position to succeed every single week. Our goals are aligned, and we are ready to get to work.” In 2024, Sam Hunt Racing hosted a rotation of 10 different drivers in its 26 entries and entered the 24-car for two races, gathering four top-five and six top-10 finishes. In comparison, Sam Hunt Racing had two full-time car entries in 2023. In that season, the 24 team hosted a rotation of 10 drivers, collecting only four top-10 finishes and two top-fives. SHR’s average starting position has improved by five positions compared to the 2023 season. SHR has become a consistent threat at short tracks and road courses throughout its brief history while dedicating itself to improving its intermediate and superspeedway packages. Thompson Pipe Group, MCM Transportation, and Assured Partners partner with SHR to support Thompson’s 2025 effort. Additional partnership information, along with further information on the No. 24 Toyota GR Supra entry, will be announced later. The 2025 season will kick off at Daytona International Speedway on February 15th at 5:00 PM ET. All NASCAR Xfinity Series races will be broadcast on the CW Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | NITRO MOTORSPORTS Nitro Motorsports is thrilled to announce Thad Moffitt as the first driver to join their team for the 2025 ARCA Menards Series season. Following their partnership announcement with Venturini Motorsports in November, Nitro Motorsports is ready to kick off its inaugural campaign with Moffitt behind the wheel of the No. 46 Toyota. “I’m excited to partner with Nitro Motorsports for the 2025 ARCA season,” said Moffitt. “This is a great opportunity for me to be competitive and win races as I continue to progress in my career. I’m especially looking forward to working with Shannon Rursch, who’s joining us as our Team Leader—he’s a fantastic addition to the program.” Nitro Motorsports Owner Nick Tucker echoed Moffitt’s enthusiasm, “Thad is an ideal fit for our program. His extensive experience in the ARCA Menards Series makes him the perfect leader for our debut season. We’ve been hard at work assembling a strong team to ensure we hit the ground running, and we can’t wait for the season opener.” The 24-year-old Moffitt brings a wealth of experience, having competed in the ARCA Menards Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and Trans Am Series Presented by Pirelli. With a fresh sense of motivation and support from Toyota, Moffitt is ready to lead Nitro Motorsports toward success in their first season. “I’m heading into 2025 with more resources and confidence than ever, thanks to the backing of Toyota,” Moffitt added. “None of this would be possible without the incredible support from my partners: Safety-Kleen, Leer Truck Caps & Covers, Pristine Auction, Induction Innovations, Tasty Duck, and Petty’s Garage. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together, and I can’t wait to hit the track in Daytona!” The 2025 ARCA Menards Series season kicks off on February 15th at Daytona International Speedway, where Moffitt and Nitro Motorsports will begin their quest for success. Stay tuned for more announcements and updates by following Nitro Motorsports on social media as the team prepares for their exciting debut season. (Photo Credit: Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Press Release | SIGMA PERFORMANCE SERVICES STATESVILLE, N.C. — Sigma Performance Services (SPS) is thrilled to announce that renowned driver Katherine Legge will take the wheel of the SPS No. 23 Chevrolet SS for the highly anticipated Daytona ARCA 200 at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 15. Legge, a seasoned competitor with a wealth of experience across various motorsport disciplines, has raced in the prestigious Indianapolis 500, where in 2023 she set the record for the fastest qualifying effort by a woman in the event’s history. Legge was also the first woman to win a major open-wheel race in North America in 2005. Her accomplishments extend to sports cars and endurance events, including podium finishes in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and participation in world-renowned races like the 24 Hours of Daytona. Legge’s impressive racing portfolio also includes starts in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, showcasing her adaptability across a wide range of motorsport disciplines. Her competitive spirit makes her a formidable force behind the wheel, and SPS is proud to have her leading the charge at Daytona. “We couldn’t be more excited to have Katherine join SPS for the Daytona ARCA 200,” said Joe Farré, SPS Team Owner. “Her talent and experience make her a perfect fit for the No. 23 car. We’re looking forward to seeing her competitive spirit and expertise shine on the national stage.” Legge expressed her enthusiasm: “I am beyond excited to jump back into a stock car. I’ve done thousands of laps at Daytona but have never driven the oval. Something that is so familiar to me will also be brand new. It will be my second-ever stock car race on an oval, and I’m thrilled to be doing it with such a great team.” The Daytona ARCA 200 serves as the season-opener for the ARCA Menards Series and is a cornerstone event during Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway. Fans can look forward to Legge’s return to the high banks of Daytona, where she will aim to bring SPS to the forefront of the competition in ARCA. For more information about Sigma Performance Services and updates on Legge’s Daytona ARCA 200 journey, follow SPS on social media and visit the website at www.SPS23Racing.com. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | FORD PERFORMANCE Ford Performance NASCAR Cup driver Austin Cindric has been selected to the Ford Multimatic Motorsports line-up for the IMSA-sanctioned 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona. Cindric will substitute for endurance driver Ben Barker, who broke his collarbone while skiing during the holidays. He will join the full season pairing of Mike Rockenfeller and Sebastian Priaulx in the No. 64 Ford Multimatic Motorsports Ford Mustang GT3. “The 24 Hours of Daytona has become a very meaningful event for me and my career,” said Cindric. “This will be my sixth opportunity to run this race, and with the Ford Mustang GT3, it’s one of the best opportunities I’ll have had at taking one of those watches home. “It’s important that I wish Ben all the best in his recovery as I get to keep his seat warm. I’m keen to do my part in contributing to a great result, but also representing Multimatic and Ford properly as they start their season in IMSA.” The Mooresville, N.C. native is a multi-race winning driver in the premier NASCAR Cup series, including the 2022 Daytona 500 in a Team Penske Mustang. “We have great momentum moving into the season opening round at Daytona,” offered Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “It is a difficult situation with Ben’s injury coming when it did, but we are excited to have Austin step into the Ford Mustang GT3. Austin is one of the most diverse drivers we have, a proven winner with Mustang in NASCAR and sports cars. He is a perfect fit to step in and team with Seb and Rocky at Daytona.” Prior to a career in stock car racing, Cindric competed in major sports car racing series across North America. He proved his talent as a Ford development driver in Mustang GT4 which has included four Michelin Pilot Challenge appearances with Multimatic Motorsports at Daytona, and a 2019 race win alongside Priaulx at Road Atlanta. “In 2025, it’ll be 10 years exactly since the first time I came down to Daytona to race for Multimatic and Ford in Michelin Pilot Challenge,” Cindric said. “That nervous 16-year-old would be happy to learn where things would be 10 years on. Needless to say, there are a lot of familiar faces. I’m grateful to get the nod, and I’m looking forward to getting to work soon.” “It is a real shame for Ben and for the team that he will miss Daytona, but accidents happen. He is already on the mend and will be back in action soon,” said Pascal Zurlinden, Executive Vice President, Multimatic Engineering & Special Vehicle Operations. “We’re delighted to welcome Austin back to the team and we are sure he will do an excellent job, as he has always done for us.” (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | SPIRE MOTORSPORTS Today, MINER Ltd., the self-perform, national service partner for smarter, safer loading docks and Spire Motorsports, announced a multi-faceted partnership that aligns two organizations committed to safety and reliability. The partnership includes MINER serving as the exclusive dock and door services provider for Spire Motorsports’ facilities, as well as the primary sponsor of Carson Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevrolet for multiple NASCAR Cup Series races in 2025. MINER will also maintain an associate sponsorship presence with Hocevar and the No. 77 Cup Series team across the 2025 season. MINER specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining critical logistics equipment—including warehouse dock doors and levelers, commercial sectional overhead doors, HVLS fans, and related facility accessories. MINER delivers unparalleled service and expertise, ensuring facilities have access to innovative solutions that drive efficiency, reliability, and safety. The initial installation in Spire Motorsports’ race shop and showroom integrates durable glass doors and supporting equipment, enhancing security while preserving visibility and introducing a sleek, modern aesthetic. The company’s nationwide service footprint delivers proactive maintenance strategies and rapid emergency response, ensuring clients’ equipment operates at peak performance. The company also supports end users, general contractors, architects, and developers, from ground-up developments to tenant improvement or remodels. “This is a unique opportunity to align with a sport that truly exemplifies speed, safety, performance, and teamwork— values that resonate deeply with MINER’s mission and culture,” said MINER President, Dave Wright. “We’re thrilled to partner with Spire Motorsports and excited to build a successful partnership for the future.” Hocevar, a Portage, Mich., native earned top 2024 rookie honors on the strength of one top-five, six top-10 and 13 top-15 finishes. In his first full season at the controls of the No. 77 Chevrolet, Hocevar brought home a career best third-place finish in the Cup Series September visit to Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International. The 21-year-old impressed throughout his rookie campaign and was the top finishing rookie in 15 races on NASCAR’s senior circuit in 2024. He out-distanced his next closest competitor by a handsome 107-point advantage when the checkered flag fell on the season finale at Phoenix Raceway. Hocevar made his NCS debut for Spire Motorsports on June 4, 2023 at World Wide Technology Raceway. “It’s exciting to carry the momentum from 2024 and winning the Cup Series rookie of the year into the off season by adding MINER to Spire Motorsports’ family of partners,” said Hocevar. “We’ve got a lot of great things happening and we’re already off to a good start. MINER is a great company, and we share the same commitment to performing at the highest level. It seems like we just wrapped last season but we’re full speed ahead for 2025.” In its first season as a three-car operation in NASCAR’s premier division, Spire Motorsports campaigned the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets. The Mooresville, N.C., team collected four top-five and 13 top-10 finishes while also fielding the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | TRACKHOUSE RACING When you’ve won the Indianapolis 500 four times, the 24 Hours of Daytona three times and over 30 major open wheel races, you’ve realized most of your racing dreams. But for Hélio Castroneves there’s one more entry he’s about to add to his hall of fame resume – NASCAR’s Daytona 500. He and Trackhouse Racing announced today the Sao Paulo, Brazil native will drive Trackhouse Racing’s PROJECT91 entry in the 2025 Daytona 500 on Feb. 16. The No. 91 Chevrolet will carry the Wendy’s® livery during the 2025 Speedweeks as he seeks to join Mario Andretti and AJ Foyt as the only drivers to win the Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would enter a NASCAR race and certainly not the Daytona 500 with a team like Trackhouse Racing,” said Castroneves. “This is an opportunity that nobody in their right mind could ever turn down. I am so thankful to Wendy’s for allowing me to wear their uniform and drive their car, (Trackhouse owner) Justin Marks and everyone that made this happen. I wish the race were tomorrow!” Marks created PROJECT91 in 2022 intent on expanding the organization’s global reach by fielding a Cup Series entry for renowned international racing drivers. Castroneves will join Trackhouse fulltime Cup drivers Daniel Suárez, Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. The season-opening Daytona 500 will mark Castroneves’ first NASCAR Cup Series start and the fifth race for PROJECT91 after appearances by 2007 Formula One World Champion Kimi Räikkönen at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International and Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas in 2022 as well as Van Gisbergen’s races at the Chicago Street Race and the Indianapolis Road Course in 2023. Van Gisbergen became the first driver since 1963 to win in his Cup debut when he won at the Chicago Street Course. The victory launched his move to America and a full season in the Xfinity Series in 2024 and his move to fulltime Cup racing in 2025. Castroneves said expecting a victory in his debut might be unrealistic but knows he will have the equipment to succeed. “I know how much of a challenge this is going to be, but I also know the type of people and team Trackhouse Racing will bring to the effort,” said Castroneves. “I can’t wait to get to the Trackhouse race shop in North Carolina to meet everyone and prepare for Daytona. There is so much I must learn and I’m ready to get started.” Darian Grubb, a 24-time winning crew chief who won a Cup Series title with Tony Stewart in 2011, will lead the No. 91 team in Daytona. Marks said adding Castroneves to the PROJECT91 program is a “no-brainer.” “Hélio is one of the greatest drivers of all time and exactly the type of driver we want to bring to NASCAR,” said Marks. “I think race fans around the world will be excited to see Hélio in NASCAR’s most prestigious race. It also exposes our sport to a global audience and allows them to see just how great of a series we have in NASCAR.” Marks created Trackhouse Entertainment Group in 2020 after a driving career in sports cars and NASCAR. With the goal of creating a racing brand that transcends the sport, Marks formed Trackhouse Racing that took to the track in 2021 with Suárez behind the wheel. In January 2021, the team announced a partnership with international superstar entertainer Pitbull who has been a frequent guest at NASCAR races and elevated Trackhouse’s presence through inclusion in several of his songs, music videos over the last two years and named his latest album “Trackhouse.” Midway through the 2021 season, Trackhouse Racing purchased the NASCAR assets of Chip Ganassi Racing and began the 2022 season as its own two-car team with Suárez and Chastain as drivers and will expand to three fulltime Cup teams in 2025 adding Van Gisbergen. Castroneves is one of four drivers to have won the Indianapolis 500 four times (2001, 2002, 2009, and 2021) and was runner-up in the IndyCar Series drivers’ championship four times (2002, 2008, 2013, and 2014). He is a three-time winner of the Rolex 24 at Daytona, consecutively in 2021 with Wayne Taylor Racing and 2022 and 2023 with Meyer Shank, in addition to the overall 2020 IMSA championship with Team Penske. Castroneves does have experience driving cars with a roof including 16 IROC races (2002-2005) and starts in the Supercars and Brazil stock car series. Castroneves is well known for his work away from the track. He and Julianne Hough won the 2007 “Dancing with the Stars” competition on ABC Television and returned in 2012 to compete again with partner Chelsie Hightower. Castroneves has been a guest on the “Oprah Winfrey Show,” a correspondent on “Entertainment Tonight” and a judge at the 2011 Miss Universe competition. One of the most popular drivers in IndyCar, his celebration of climbing the fencing beside the track after a victory, earned him the nickname “Spider-Man”. NASCAR drivers have gone on to climb the fence after victories in imitation of Castroneves. He’d love nothing more than to climb the fence at Daytona in February. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

Press Release | TRICON TRICON Garage (TRICON) has revealed its lineup for the No. 1 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for the upcoming NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) season. The team will compete in all 25 NCTS events, featuring a rotating cast of drivers including Brent Crews, Brandon Jones, William Sawalich and Lawless Alan. Crews, a 16-year-old Toyota Driver Development prospect, is set to make nine starts, beginning with his debut at North Wilkesboro Speedway in May. Hailing from Hickory, North Carolina, Crews boasts a diverse racing background, having earned two ARCA Menards Series (AMS) victories and three CARS Tour Late Model Stock (LMSC) wins, along with being named the LMSC Rookie of the Year in 2024. Additionally, he captured the 2024 World Series of Asphalt super late model title at New Smyrna (FL) Speedway earning a top-five finish in all five races of the series. He also made history as the youngest winner (14 years, 3 months, 6 days) and champion (15 years, 7 months, 3 days) in Trans-AM TA2 Pro-Am Series history, in addition to numerous karting and open-wheel dirt victories. The 27-year-old Jones is set to return to the NCTS for the first time since 2020, when he claimed a victory at Pocono (PA) Raceway and earned two top-10 finishes in a Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for Kyle Busch Motorsports. Currently the full-time pilot of a Toyota GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS), Jones brings a bevy of experience to TRICON for his seven scheduled starts. With over 350 national series appearances, Jones has accumulated six wins across both the NCTS and NXS, with a best finish of sixth in the 2020 NXS championship points standings. For the third consecutive season, rising-star William Sawalich will make several starts with the team. The longest-tenured member of the 2025 No. 1 lineup, the 19-year-old will compete in five NCTS races, alongside his full-time duties behind the wheel of a Toyota GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Xfinity Series. In 2024, the Eden Prairie, Minnesota native made 10 starts with TRICON, highlighted by becoming the youngest polesitter in Talladega Superspeedway history. Sawalich also recently completed an impressive AMS campaign, securing 9 wins and capturing his second consecutive ARCA East Championship. 2018 Irwindale Speedway Late Model Track Champion and 2019 Trans AM TA2 Rookie of the Year, Lawless Alan will round out the TRICON lineup with four starts in 2025. Coming off his third full-time NCTS season, the 24-year-old secured his career-high finish of fifth at Talladega alongside a top five and four top-10 finishes in seven AMS starts with Reaume Brothers Racing. Alan makes the transition to the Toyota pipeline where he is slated to run the full AMS schedule for Venturini Motorsports in addition to his four truck appearances. Jake Hampton, who has been with the organization since 2019 as a race engineer, will lead the No. 1 team from atop the pit box. In 2023, Hampton oversaw the No. 17 team as interim Crew Chief in 10 races, guiding Gray to three top-five finishes. As lead engineer in 2024, the 29-year-old played a key role in Gray’s first-career playoff berth while achieving eight top-fives, 14 top-10s, and a sixth-place finish in the final series standings. A complete list of races for each driver is below. Brent Crews: North Wilkesboro, Lime Rock, IRP, Richmond, Bristol II, New Hampshire, Charlotte ROVAL, Martinsville II, Phoenix Brandon Jones: Homestead-Miami, Bristol I, Rockingham, Texas, Kansas, Charlotte, Pocono William Sawalich: Daytona, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Nashville, Watkins Glen Lawless Alan: Martinsville I, Michigan, Darlington, Talladega (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

By Adam Carabine and Logan Morris Legacy Motor Club Two full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series   Car No. 42 John Hunter Nemechek   John Hunter Nemechek celebrates after winning an Xfinity Series race at Nashville Superspeedway - Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images 2024 Stats John Hunter drove in the 42 car for Legacy last season Final Standings Position – 34th  Best 2024 Finish – P6 at Bristol Points – 447 Average Finish – 25.42   Career Cup Series Stats Starts – 77 Wins – 0 Best Career Season Finish Position – 27th in 2020 with Front Row Motorsports    ------------------ Car No. 43 Erik Jones Erik Jones with his No. 43 Toyota at Daytona - Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images 2024 Stats Erik Jones was also in this ride last season Final Standings Position – 28th  Best 2024 Finish – P5 at Talladega Points – 516 Average Finish – 22.91   Career Cup Series Stats Starts – 289 Wins – 3 Best Career Season Finish Position – 15th in 2018 with Joe Gibbs Racing   2025 Hopes and Expectations After coming off of a very disappointing 2024 campaign, Legacy Motor Club is looking to take a meaningful step in the right direction. With a year under their belt in the Toyota camp, they should be expected to improve. Erik Jones is always capable of winning at Darlington. But if both drivers finish inside the top 20 in points this season Jimmie Johnson and company will be very pleased with 2025.

By Adam Carabine DGM Racing Two full-time entries in the NASCAR Xfinity Series   Car No. 71 Ryan Ellis   Ryan Ellis gets ready for Xfinity Practice at Michigan - Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images 2024 Stats Ryan Ellis will drive the No. 71 in 2025, which is a new number for DGM Racing.  Last season, this ride would have been the No. 92 car: Final Standings Position – 29th  Best 2024 Finish – P6 at Watkins Glen with Ross Chastain Points – 399 Average Finish – 25.39   Career Xfinity Series Stats – Ryan Ellis Ryan Ellis drove the No. 43 car for Alpha Prime Racing last season Starts – 131 Wins – 0 Best Career Season Finish Position – 23rd in 2024 with Alpha Prime Racing --------------------  Car No. 91 TBA driver – possibly multiple drivers   2024 Stats Kyle Weatherman was scheduled to be the full-time driver in the 91 last year, but three other drivers took a few races down the stretch Final Standings Position – 24th  Best 2024 Finish – P8 at Dover, Kyle Weatherman Points – 486 Average Finish – 22.36   2025 Hopes and Expectations While we still await an official announcement on the driver(s) for the No. 91 car, Ryan Ellis brings some Xfinity Series experience with him to the newly formed No. 71.  While he hasn’t exactly lit up the series over the 12 years he’s made appearances, he hasn’t had great equipment either.  DGM will need a lot of things to go right in order to be regularly competitive, but this could be step in the right direction.