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Press Release | NHRA POMONA, Calif. (Nov. 14, 2024) – As the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season comes to a close at the 59th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals at legendary In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, reigning Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Gaige Herrera is on the brink of another crowning moment, as the young rider will attempt to claim his second consecutive world championship. Herrera, rider of the RevZilla/Mission Foods/Vance & Hines Suzuki, has dominated the field for the past two seasons, winning 11 races a year ago en route to his first world title. With 10 event wins to his credit in 2024, he heads into the final race of the season with another commanding points lead, leading former champion Matt Smith by 123 points. If Herrera keeps the margin above 120 points by the end of qualifying, he will clinch a championship on Saturday, much like he did a year ago. As sweet as that first title was, a second championship would be just as special for Herrera. “If I’m able to win the second championship, I think this one will mean a lot more,” Herrera said. “I had to earn it a lot more this season. Last season, I kind of ran away with it and came out of nowhere with Andrew (Hines, tuner). We just gelled so quick and we were dominating right away. This year was definitely a lot tighter racing. There wasn’t much room for error. It’s going to mean a lot more for me, showing that last year was a fluke or just a one-time thing. It’s pretty amazing, honestly.” The 2023 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals saw Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Chad Green (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock), and Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) take home event wins, while Kalitta (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won world titles. The year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1 to close the season in style, including eliminations at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 17. It is the last of six races in the Countdown to the Championship and after a slow start in the playoffs, Herrera has come on strong, winning the past three events. Herrera is one of only four riders to have collected wins this season: 2023 Rookie of the Year Chase Van Sant won in his first career event in Seattle, Reading winner Hector Arana Jr. and six-time champion Smith who claimed victories in Sonoma and at the fall race in Charlotte. Smith grabbed the points lead after the Charlotte playoff win, but Herrera, who boasts an incredible 47-4 round win record this season, bounced back with wins in St. Louis, Dallas and Las Vegas. He’s now won 21 races over the past two seasons with one race remaining, recording an other-worldly 97-8 record during that time. Now, Herrera hopes to finish off this run with another title in Pomona. “It means a lot to have done what we have,” Herrera said. “We’ve won a lot of races in back-to-back years. I go home and I see all the Wally trophies and I remember just dreaming to be able to hold one and now I’ve got 21 of them. It’s insane and for us to do the same in back-to-back seasons, and to have 10 wins this year, it’s incredible and it just showcases (tuners, past champions) Andrew and Eddie Krawiec and all the guys back at the Vance & Hines shop. None of this is possible without them. I feel like these are more their wins than mine and I’m very thankful to be a part of it.” In the Top Fuel ranks, Justin Ashley currently leads the points over former champs Antron Brown and Shawn Langdon by 44 and 45 points, respectively, with Steve Torrence and Doug Kalitta both close behind. Ashley has collected four wins this season, including the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip’s first event of the season. The Funny Car championship is all but decided, as class newcomer Austin Prock takes a 188-point lead into Pomona. He’ll clinch his first career world title – and the 21st Funny Car title for John Force Racing – when he attempts his first qualifying pass. He’s also after a ninth Funny Car win, thought the likes of Hagan, Ron Capps, Jack Beckman and Bob Tasca III will try to close out 2024 in style. Pro Stock has come down a three-car race, with Aaron Stanfield jumping into the lead with his Las Vegas win. He leads Dallas Glenn by 32 points as both drivers are seeking their first championship. Veteran Greg Anderson is only 56 points back, while the likes of Erica Enders and Jeg Coughlin Jr. look to finish the year with a Pomona win. Along with racing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, fans can also see the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, while the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department will hold a special racing exhibition. Fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage in the pits, where they can take part in Nitro School, meet and greets, influencer interviews and much more. Pomona race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday, where fans are invited to congratulate the world champions and event winners. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. They can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes displays, merchandise, food, and fun. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will feature two qualifying rounds at 1 and 3:30 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 15, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, Nov. 17. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 a.m. ET on Sunday and then live eliminations on FS1 at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday. To purchase tickets to the 59th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. (Photo Courtesy NHRA)

Press Release | BOWMAN GRAY STADIUM WINSTON SALEM, N.C. (Nov. 14, 2024) – Work is well underway to get Bowman Gray Stadium ready for its next generation of racing, which begins next year with The Clash on Feb. 1-2, 2025. NASCAR, City of Winston-Salem, and Winston-Salem State University announced several initiatives today that are preparing the facility for a future that includes the return of NASCAR Cup Series racing to its historic quarter-mile oval for the first time since 1971. Improvements include: A brand-new Musco lighting system that is custom designed to improve track lighting and visibility, reduce energy consumption, enhance the overall experience for drivers and fans, and provide the necessary illumination for nationally-televised racing events, beginning with the 2025 NASCAR Clash on FOX. Funding for the lighting system will come from a pandemic recovery grant that was awarded to the City of Winston-Salem in 2022 as part of the North Carolina Motorsports Relief Fund. Installation of SAFER barrier, the innovative and life-saving steel and foam energy reduction system, and new catch fences featured at every NASCAR national series racetrack. “Part of being good stewards of Bowman Gray Stadium includes preparing it to host compelling events that rightfully place it in the national spotlight,” said Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice President, Chief Venue and Racing Innovation Officer. “We are grateful to Musco for providing the premium event lighting product to illuminate this historic venue. The preparations in advance of The Clash will position this national treasure as a showcase of national and grassroots racing for the next generation and beyond.” The Total Light Control – TLC for LED™ system from Musco features patented light control that prevents glare from affecting drivers, spectators, and television cameras. The new LED system features Musco’s Show-Light® Pro special effects technology that allows for the creation of customized light shows on the racetrack, with color-changing fixtures and light-to-music synchronization for a world-class entertainment experience. “Bowman Gray is a fantastic venue with a storied history in both racing and football,” said Musco CEO Jeff Rogers. “We’re looking forward to working on this project with NASCAR. Lighting The Clash is exciting, but leaving a legacy LED lighting system for local racing and Winston-Salem State University football makes the project even more special.” Musco lighting solutions provide the high light levels required for television broadcast, the uniformity and glare control specified by international racing organization safety standards, and an unforgettable race night experience for spectators – at the venue and broadcast on television or online. Installation will begin in December and will be completed in advance of The Clash in February. “The City of Winston-Salem is thrilled that NASCAR has chosen to kick off their 2025 season by holding The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium,” said City of Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines. “We value the partnership with Musco, NASCAR, and WSSU to provide enhanced stadium lighting that will position the stadium and community to host future national events and improve the fan experience for the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series at Bowman Gray Stadium and WSSU Football. This lighting system complements the $9 million that the City invested in improvements to Bowman Gray Stadium a few years ago. The City Council and I want to thank Musco for their investment in our historic stadium and their commitment to the Winston-Salem community.” “This collaboration with NASCAR is a testament to their strong commitment to community engagement,” said Winston-Salem State University Chancellor Bonita Brown. “The installation of new lighting will enhance the experience for our student-athletes, fans and the broader community, making our stadium a brighter and more inviting place for everyone. We are thrilled about these improvements as well as the ongoing partnership we have with NASCAR that offers our students exposure to the motorsports industry.” Crews began preparing Bowman Gray Stadium for SAFER barrier installation on Oct. 21 with the removal of the previous guardrail system. Installation of the new barriers and catch fencing is anticipated to be completed by the first week of January. A scant number of tickets remain for the inaugural NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, Feb. 1-2. A full schedule of weekend activities will be released in the near future, but both days will include NASCAR Cup Series cars on track concluding with The Clash broadcast live on FOX on Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. ET. Fans are encouraged to visit NASCARClash.com to secure their seats now while supplies last. To learn more about the 2025 NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series season with weekly modified, sportsman, street stock and stadium stock competition, visit bowmangrayracing.com. (Photo Courtesy NASCAR)

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’ve learned from Adam Stern’s tweet that NASCAR is considering reviewing the playoff format this offseason. However, any major changes are unlikely before 2026, with only minor tweaks expected in 2025 due to sponsorship, tracks, and TV commitments. There’s no guarantee of any changes, and nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Sources suggest that NASCAR might adjust the format slightly, but we’ll have to wait to see what happens. Let us know in the comments if you think the playoff format should be changed and what adjustments you’d like to see!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’ve got news that Legacy Motor Club co-owner Jimmie Johnson will return in 2025 for select races, marking his third season as a part-time driver. His first two seasons haven’t gone as well as hoped, but he did achieve his best finish as a part-time driver this past weekend in Phoenix. It’s exciting to see him back behind the wheel, and we’re curious to hear what you think about his return in 2025. Let us know in the comments below! Keep it tuned to Racing Refresh for more updates, and we’ll see you soon!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’re witnessing the end of an era as FedEx will no longer sponsor Denny Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing starting in 2025. Over the years, many full-time, full-season sponsors have parted ways with the sport, reflecting a changing landscape. FedEx’s departure is another sign of this trend, leaving fewer full-season sponsorships in NASCAR. You can check out the tweet for more details and the farewell between Denny and FedEx, and keep it tuned to Racing Refresh for all the latest news in Motorsports.

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’ve got some interesting news from RSS Racing for the remainder of the season. Ryan and Kyle Sieg are switching numbers, with Ryan driving the number 28 and Kyle taking the 39. The switch is aimed at helping the 28 team secure owner points for the start of the 2025 season. You can check out the tweet below for more details. Keep it tuned to Racing Refresh for all the latest news in Motorsports!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We have some surprising news as Parker Kligerman has announced he will be stepping away from Big Machine Racing and full-time racing at the end of the season. He currently sits 11th in the playoff standings but shared that he feels his goal of reaching the Cup Series is likely out of reach at this point. We’ve always appreciated Parker’s great personality and are glad to see him achieving success in the Xfinity Series. We wish him the best of luck for the rest of the year. Keep it tuned to Racing Refresh for all the latest news in Motorsports!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We have some exciting news as Jason Burdett, after leaving Legacy Motor Club last month, has joined Tricon Garage in the Craftsman Truck Series. He will be the crew chief for the number 15 Toyota, driven by Tanner Gray. Jason brings a wealth of experience, including 18 Xfinity Series wins from his time at JR Motorsports, as well as recent work as a part-time crew chief for Jimmie Johnson’s no. 84. We think it’s a great move for Tricon Garage. Keep it tuned to Racing Refresh for all the latest Motorsports news, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We have some news regarding Trackhouse Racing and Zane Smith, who have mutually agreed to part ways at the end of the season. Zane, a 25-year-old former NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, will be exploring other opportunities, with Trackhouse supporting his decision. Although Zane expressed his disappointment, he thanked the organization and confirmed that they will continue working together while he is loaned to Spire for the rest of the 2024 season. We’ll keep you updated with all the latest in Motorsports news. Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button, and we’ll see you soon!

(Photo Credit: x.com/DexBean ) We have some exciting news as Wisconsin native Dexter Bean will race in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at the Milwaukee Mile this Sunday. He’ll be driving for Young’s Motorsports and is thrilled to have local sponsors supporting him. This race is especially meaningful for him, as it's essentially in his home state. Dexter has previously finished 17th at Milwaukee and recently earned a top-20 finish in the Xfinity Series. You can catch all the action this Sunday on FS1 at 4 PM, and we’ll keep you updated with all the details!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) In case you missed it, AJ Allmendinger will return to the Cup Series full-time for Kaulig Racing in the No. 16 car in 2025. After taking a year off and racing full-time in the Xfinity Series this year, he's heading back to the top series. This is exciting news, especially since the No. 16 car has been shared by different drivers this season. With Allmendinger coming back, the team will have a permanent driver in the car next year. We’ll keep you updated on all the latest in motorsports, so stay tuned!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) In case you missed it, NASCAR made a major announcement today: Austin Dillon's win at Richmond will stand, but he won’t be eligible for the playoffs based on that win. If he wins one of the final three races in a fair manner, he could still be playoff eligible, but for now, he and the team are docked 25 points. RCR plans to appeal the penalty, and we expect them to take it all the way up to NASCAR’s highest authority. Additionally, Joey Logano has been fined $50,000 for his actions on pit road after the race. We’d love to hear your thoughts on NASCAR’s decision, so be sure to share in the comments or on social media!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’re here with another update, and in case you missed it, NASCAR’s VP of competition mentioned that they will review the footage and data from the race at Richmond to see if a penalty for Austin Dillon is warranted. We should find out the decision by Tuesday, depending on when you’re watching. It was definitely an interesting and bold move by Austin Dillon to secure the win, and we’ll be sharing our thoughts on it in an article on Racing Refresh later this week. We’d love to hear what you think about his move, so feel free to share your opinions in the comments below. Keep it tuned to Racing Refresh for more updates, and we’ll see you soon!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’ve got news that Jeffrey Earnhardt will be back on the track in the Xfinity Series with Sam Hunt Racing, starting this weekend at Michigan for the Cabo Waba 250. He’ll also return to Sam Hunt Racing for the Phoenix race later this season. Be sure to check out the tweet linked below for more details. We’re excited to see Earnhardt back on track, no matter the series, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do at Michigan. Stay tuned to Racing Refresh for all the latest updates and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button!

(Photo Courtesy NASCAR) We’ve got an update on Adam Stevens, the crew chief of the No. 20 car, who suffered an injury while on vacation during the Olympic break. Chris Sherwood will step in as the substitute crew chief for the next few weeks. Stevens will still be helping remotely and communicating with the team while he recovers. Be sure to check out the full details in the tweet linked below. Stay tuned to Racing Refresh for all the latest news in Motorsports!