Photo by Ralph Garcia for Racing Refresh By Adam Carabine A look at the Top Ten in our weekly Power Rankings, plus the biggest movers! While finishing position is important, it’s not always indicative of the full picture.  StatChat rankings are determined using a large number of statistical inputs, with an emphasis placed on the most recent 5 races.   Christopher Bell – This week: 10 – Last week: 14 Christopher Bell had a quick dip outside of the Top 10 of our Power Rankings, but it was short-lived.  While Bell’s day in Sonoma wasn’t perfect, he wound up bringing his car home P5, which was enough to crack the Top 10 again.   AJ Allmendinger – This week: 9 – Last week: 7 Known for his road course prowess, AJ Allmendinger unfortunately struggled in Sonoma this past weekend.  He even spun off the course at one point – seemingly of his own doing.  He was still able to finish P18, which speaks to his abilities on road courses more than it shows what a bad day it was.  Many other drivers would have fared worse with the cards he was dealt.     Chase Briscoe – This week: 8 – Last week: 16 Briscoe breaks into the Top 10 of the Power Rankings this week after a solid P2 finish at Sonoma.  Out of his previous five races (which are weighted more heavily in the Power Rankings formula), Briscoe has a win, a P2 and a P7.  It’s taken a little time, but it seems that he’s growing into the 19 car, and things are starting to click.   Ty Gibbs – This week: 7 – Last week: 9 Gibbs can’t seem to catch a break – he continues searching for his first career win.  He was really solid at Sonoma, though likely didn’t have a winning car.  A P7 was his second Top 10 in a row, Things are going well for the youngster, but I’d be willing to bet he won’t be satisfied until he gets his Cup car into Victory Lane.   Chris Buescher – This week: 6 – Last week: 5 Buescher has been lurking around the Top 10 in our Power Rankings for a few weeks.  It was far from a perfect day at Sonoma for Buescher, who has been notably better at road courses lately, but he earned a respectable P16.  He falls one spot, and he’ll want to earn that back pretty quickly to push for the playoffs.   Denny Hamlin – This week: 5 – Last week: 2 Hamlin has struggled at Sonoma in the past, and this weekend was no exception.  His car looked like it was missing something and they didn’t seem able to find it in time to make a difference.  Denny is still in the Top 5 of the Power Rankings after a solid few weeks, but he’ll likely be happy to see just left turns ahead.   Alex Bowman – This week: 4 – Last week: 12 Sometimes the formula’s focus on the previous five weeks can give you some weird scenarios – enter Alex Bowman.  In the races 6 and 7 weeks ago, Bowman finished 37 th  and 36 th .  As Sonoma comes and goes – and Bowman has a decent, not too flashy day – now his most recent five races no longer have any finishes outside of the Top 20.  He jumps up to 4 th in our Power Rankings, even with Sonoma being the worst of this most recent five.   Tyler Reddick – This week: 3 – Last week: 4 What seemed like a fairly frustrating day for Tyler Reddick and the 45 team turned into a nicely salvaged finish.  It appeared to be a difficult day handling-wise for Reddick and co, and yet they managed to bring it home P6 at the end of the day.  That’s how championship teams work, they maximize tough days.  He’s still looking for a win, though and if any more new winners come into play, he could find himself in a tough spot.   Chase Elliott – This week: 2   – Last week: 1 Chase Elliott had a really great day at a track that is one of his best – Sonoma.  To be honest, he really didn’t do anything wrong that warranted a fall from the top spot of the Power Rankings.  He just happened to be up against a road course juggernaut in SVG.  Once we return to ovals, Elliott might be the favourite to take back the top spot.   Shane Van Gisbergen – This week: 1 – Last week: 3 I suppose if you’re shocked by the new Top Dog in our Power Rankings, you haven’t been paying attention.  Not only did he get the win at Sonoma this past weekend, but he’s got three wins in his past five races.  SVG is unstoppable at road courses, it seems, and he gets rewarded with the top spot this week because of it.   Biggest Movers   Kyle Larson – This week: 13 – Last week: 6 Falls 7 places   Chase Briscoe – This week: 8 – Last week: 16 Gains 8 places   Alex Bowman – This week: 4 – Last week: 12 Gains 8 places   Michael McDowell – This week: 18 – Last week: 26 Gains 8 places   Rest of the List 11. Ryan Preece LW: 10 -1 12. Erik Jones LW: 8 -4 13. Kyle Larson LW: 6 -7 14. Ryan Blaney LW: 11 -3 15. William Byron LW: 13 -2 16. Ricky Stenhouse Jr. LW: 17 +1 17. Kyle Busch LW: 18 +1 18. Michael McDowell LW: 26 +8 19. Ty Dillon LW: 25 +6 20. Ross Chastain LW: 15 -5 21. Justin Haley LW: 22 +1 22. Bubba Wallace LW: 19 -3 23. JH Nemechek LW: 24 +1 24. Joey Logano LW: 23 -1 25. Brad Keselowski LW: 21 -4 26. Zane Smith LW: 20 -6 27. Austin Cindric LW: 27 -- 28. Cody Ware LW: 28 -- 29. Todd Gilliland LW: 32 +3 30. Daniel Suarez LW: 31 +1 31. Noah Gragson LW: 30 -1 32. Carson Hocevar LW: 29 -3 33. Josh Berry LW: 33 -- 34. Cole Custer LW: 36 +2 35. Austin Dillon LW: 34 -1 36. Riley Herbst LW: 35 -1

Press Release | NHRA In less than two months, hundreds of the world’s best racers will descend upon magical Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, looking for their shot at glory and the chance to make history at the prestigious 71st annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals on Aug. 27-Sept. 1. The Big Go’s storied history includes some of the biggest moments in NHRA history, and ahead of NHRA’s 75th anniversary in 2026, fans can expect a special weekend in Indy at the world’s biggest drag race on the sport’s grandest stage. An event loaded with prestige, intensity, an unmatched atmosphere, and epic celebrations, this year’s Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals is one no fan should miss. For the first time, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will crown its four regular season champions in Indy. One driver from Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle will be named the regular-season champ, with NHRA set to award almost $400,000 in additional purse to the regular-season champions in each class. One of the top highlights at the Big Go, this year’s Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals will again see Funny Car stars battling for top honors at the NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout event. Reigning Funny Car world champ and 2024 Indy winner Austin Prock currently leads the way and is on track to have the first pick in the specialty race. It's far from the only marquee attraction at the Big Go, though, as Indy offers something for every racing fan, including: Fans at the event who renew their tickets for the 2026 race will be given a special 75th anniversary replica championship ring. They will also be given the option to buy a commemorative ticket featuring several NHRA legends as NHRA looks to celebrate its diamond anniversary next season. The Deecell NHRA Competition Eliminator Cash Clash is back in Indy, giving Comp eliminator drivers a shot at a big payout on drag racing’s biggest stage. The Sox & Martin Hemi Challenge returns as the longest-running continuous specialty race in NHRA history and features exciting heads-up, wheelstanding, side-by-side racing of Hemi-powered '68 Super Stock Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas competing in the NHRA SS/AH class. Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park will see more than 900 race cars competing for U.S. Nationals glory. From Top Fuel to Super Stock, there is a race car on track for any racing fanatic. An unforgettable Top Eliminator Club experience, including NHRA driver appearances, food and drink, TEC gift bag, starting-line seats, and much more. Free parking for all fans in attendance for the entire weekend. SealMaster NHRA Track Walk before Monday’s eliminations. Autograph sessions throughout the weekend and a can’t-miss Hot Rod Junction. Children 12 and under get in free to an event offering all-day entertainment for the entire family. Without question, a U.S. Nationals victory means more, as careers are defined by success at the world’s biggest drag race. Iconic drivers have shaped their legacies with their Indy success, including legends like Don Garlits, Don Prudhomme, Kenny Bernstein, Connie Kalitta, Shirley Muldowney, Bob Glidden, and current stars like Tony Schumacher, John Force, Antron Brown, Ron Capps, Greg Anderson, Erica Enders, Doug Kalitta, Matt Hagan, Cruz Pedregon, Shawn Langdon, and J.R. Todd. Top Fuel’s Schumacher has an amazing 10 victories at the Big Go, the most of any driver in NHRA history, while Force’s five Funny Car wins are tied with McCulloch for the most in class history. Anderson’s 100th career win in 2022 gave the five-time champ seven overall wins in Pro Stock at the world’s biggest drag race, while Brown has five career wins across two classes at the Big Go. Last year’s Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals had Prock (Funny Car), Clay Millican (Top Fuel), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock), and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) claim wins in a winner’s circle that featured four first-time Indy winners. This year’s race will once again be broadcast on FS1 and FOX, with Monday’s eliminations broadcast on FOX beginning at 2 p.m. ET. Prock wowed NHRA fans throughout 2024, picking up eight wins en route to his first world championship. Prock again leads the Funny Car points in 2025, collecting four event wins so far. Top Fuel’s Millican won his first U.S. Nationals last season over four-time world champ Steve Torrence. Currently leading Top Fuel is motorsports legend and 2024 NHRA Rookie of the Year Tony Stewart, thanks to two Top Fuel wins. Pro Stock’s Stanfield took home his first Indy win last season over five-time champ Jeg Coughlin. This season, the Pro Stock ranks have been dominated by KB Titan Racing teammates Anderson and Dallas Glenn. Reigning Pro Stock Motorcycle champ Herrera took home last season’s Indy win over Angie Smith. Herrera again leads the points this year after winning in Gainesville, Chicago, and Richmond. Also on the schedule is the final Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge race of the season, as drivers look to earn a bonus purse and bonus points for the upcoming Countdown to the Championship playoffs. Indy also features the world’s best in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown, and Holley EFI NHRA Factory X. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature one round at 6:15 p.m. ET on Friday, Aug. 29, two rounds at 12:30 and 3:15 p.m. ET on Saturday, Aug. 30, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Sunday, Aug. 31 at noon and 2:45 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10 a.m. ET on Monday, Sept 1. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, and eliminations at noon on FS1 on Monday, shifting to FOX at 2 p.m. The first round of the Funny Car All-Star Callout takes place at 12:45 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 31, with the semifinals at 2:15 p.m. and the final round at 4 p.m. A special broadcast of the Callout takes place on FOX at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday. To purchase tickets to the 71st annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, 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. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com. (Photo Courtesy NHRA)

Press Release | KALITTA MOTORSPORTS Shawn Langdon’s done a lot in his racing career, but he has a shot at milestone round win this weekend. The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues July 18-20 at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals near Seattle. Langdon has NHRA national series championships in the Misson Foods Series, the Lucas Oil Series and Junior Dragster, but this weekend, should the Kalitta Air 25th Anniversary team be fortunate enough to reach the semifinals, he’ll claim his 400th-career round win. “That’s pretty cool,” Langdon said. “Right now, I just go race, and that's just where I am with round wins. I wouldn’t look at my career any differently if I had only 300 round wins or if I had 500 round wins at this point. It’s a cool accomplishment, and I’m sure at some point in my career, when I kinda get done with everything, I’ll look back on this type of accomplishment, and it will really sink in. In the meantime, we have a job to do, and the job is not complete.” One year ago, Langdon reached the Seattle final round but lost to Steve Torrence. Could the great Northwest be the place Langdon claims his 400th round win and then his third win of the season? “It would be nice to get to Seattle and get a win,” Langdon added. “We’re just looking forward to the last few races before the countdown starts. You really just show up and do the same things we do each race because the mindset doesn’t change because of last year’s results. You have the same mindset as always – do everything you can to try to win the race.” Langdon enters the second half of the season in second place in points; he trails points leader Tony Stewart by 52 points and leads third-place Justin Ashley by 25 points. The next closest driver is Doug Kalitta who trails Ashley by 111 points in fourth place. The top three have somewhat separated themselves from the rest of the teams in the battle for the regular-season championship which, for the first time, comes with a $150,000 bonus following the next four races that complete the regular season. “It’s a great time for us to get on a little run,” Langdon said. “We have a good car – it’s just a matter of putting it together for the next four races and putting ourselves in the best position we can. Some of the races could be kinda tricky with the size of the fields and whatever the weather conditions are, but everyone has to deal with the same things. It’s still just doing the best job we can to win races and the regular season, but it gives the teams a little bit more incentive for sure. “We had some ups and downs in the first half of the season, and we’ve definitely had a lot of chances and opportunities. I know we’ve also had kind of a learning curve so I feel like we’ve kind of seen the good and the bad. Hopefully, now, we can just focus forward and continue getting the good results we need to make a run at the regular-season championship and put ourselves in the best position we can to make a run in the Countdown (Countdown to the Championship NHRA Playoffs).” (Photo Courtesy Kalitta Motorsports)

Press Release | SPIRE MOTORSPORTS Defending CARS Late Model Stock Car Tour Champion and current ARCA Menards Series championship points leader Brenden “Butterbean” Queen will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 07 Chevrolet Silverado in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series TSport 200 at Indianapolis Raceway Park. Best Repair Company, Inc., will be showcased as the team’s primary sponsor. Queen, the full-time driver of the No. 28 Chevrolet with Pinnacle Racing Group in the ARCA Menards Series, brings a wealth of short-track experience to the team’s Allen Hart-led program. The 27-year-old will make his fourth career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start after collecting a trio of ARCA National Series wins in 2025, including checkered flags at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, Kansas Speedway and Michigan International Speedway. “I’m very blessed for the opportunity to get back in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series with Spire Motorsports and Chevrolet,” said Queen. “Having Best Repair Company be a part of this means a lot to me because they took a chance on me when I was working at the Port of Virginia and not sure if I would get to continue racing. It is really neat to see how far we have come in the last couple of years and hopefully, this is the first of many more CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts.” “Butterbean’s” racing journey began at six-years-old in the Kid Kart division at Langley (Va.) Speedway. He achieved success in various divisions, winning championships in dirt racing, arena racing and INEX Legend cars. In 2013, he transitioned to Late Model Stock Car racing, securing his first win in 2016 and earning three consecutive championships at Langley Speedway (2020-2022). The Chesapeake, Va., native, took his talents to the CARS Tour full-time in 2023 with Lee Pulliam Performance, where he captured four wins and a runner-up finish in the standings. He returned to the same program in 2024 and delivered the CARS Tour championship with four poles, two wins and 11 top-five finishes. “I’m really looking forward to working with Brenden,” said Crew Chief Allen Hart. “We have made some gains in the simulator over the past few weeks, so I feel confident as we head to IRP. He has been a blast to work with, so we will definitely carry that enthusiasm into the race.” The TSport 200 from Indianapolis Raceway Park will be televised live on FS1 Friday, July 25, beginning at 8 p.m. EDT. The race will also be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Channel 90. (Photo Courtesy Spire Motorsports)

Press Release | IHRA The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is proud to announce a new partnership with VP Racing, naming the company as the “Official Fuel of the IHRA.” VP Racing Fuels, Inc., The World Leader in Fuel Technology®, traces its roots to the early 1970s in Texas, where a passion for performance led to the development of specialized fuel blends engineered to deliver more horsepower. The launch of its first product, C12™, quickly gained traction among racers and set the foundation for the company’s official founding in 1975. Since those early days, VP has worked alongside motorsports icons, including IHRA Pro Stock legends Warren Johnson and Bob Glidden, to help shape the company’s legacy of innovation and excellence in racing fuel technology. Today, VP Racing operates with a global footprint and a dedicated team supporting more than 2,000 dealers worldwide. With five U.S. distribution hubs in Texas, Indiana, Delaware, Tennessee, and Arizona and an international office in Germany, VP delivers fuel and performance products to racers and enthusiasts across the globe. Its expansive portfolio includes over 80 fuel blends and hundreds of consumer products designed to power everything from lawn equipment to professional-level racecars. “We are pleased to announce our partnership with VP Racing,” said IHRA Owner and CEO Darryl Cuttell. “They offer an incredible range of products and have a powerful presence throughout the racing community. This is just the beginning of a series of partnerships that will directly benefit our racers and sanctioned tracks. VP Racing is a trusted name in the sport, and we’re excited about the future together.” Over the past decade, VP Racing has evolved far beyond its roots in race fuel. The brand now leads the market with a rapidly expanding lineup of consumer products, including ethanol-free small engine fuels, automotive performance additives, automotive and powersports lubricants, and much more. This diversification is supported by a nationwide retail branding program, distribution in over 60 international markets, and VP’s leadership in the development of unleaded aviation fuel through its participation in the FAA’s PAFI program. “Bringing the IHRA into our family of official series partnerships is a reflection of our continued dedication to innovation and performance,” said Bruce Hendel, VP of Sales for VP Racing. “Drag racing is where our fuels were first proven, from grassroots competition to the professional ranks, and series like the IHRA are vital to the sport’s growth and advancement. We’re proud to serve as the Official Fuel of the IHRA and the nitro supplier for its premier categories.” Together, VP Racing and the IHRA look forward to building a strong, mutually beneficial relationship anchored in a shared passion for drag racing and innovation. As the IHRA continues to expand its reach and elevate the racer experience, VP Racing will play a key role in fueling that growth on and off the track. This partnership marks the start of an exciting new chapter for both organizations and the racing community they serve. For more information about VP Racing and its extensive product lineup, visit VPRacingfuels.com. (Photo Courtesy IHRA)

Press Release | IHRA Beginning with the first race of the 2025 IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series, held July 9–12 at Darana Raceway, the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) proudly welcomes Deeznutz Lug Nuts as an official Contingency Partner. As part of this partnership, racers who run Deeznutz Billet 7075 Aluminum Lug Nuts on all four wheels and display the Deeznutz logo prominently on both sides of their race car will be eligible for contingency payouts at every IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series event in 2025. The program pays a cash prize to the winner and runner-up in all contested classes. “As a kid growing up in South Jersey, my dad and I went to Atco Dragway every year for the IHRA Summernationals,” said Joe Barszcz, owner of Deeznutz Lug Nuts. “So when I was approached to be a part of the new IHRA, I immediately said ‘Yes!’ — even before the question was finished being asked. I am excited for the opportunity to be a part of the rebirth of the IHRA and look forward to a long relationship with our Deeznutz brand of billet 7075 aluminum lug nuts.” Made in the USA from aerospace-grade 7075 aluminum, Deeznutz Lug Nuts are precision CNC-machined and available in a variety of finishes, including polished, black, black with machined contrast cut, and gold with machined contrast cut. Their 12-point, reduced-diameter design allows for improved socket clearance in tight wheel pockets, making them a top choice for drag racers, Pro Mods, and custom street builds alike. The company offers lug nuts in multiple seat styles and thread sizes, compatible with most drag racing applications. To qualify for IHRA contingency payouts, racers must use front and rear sets of Deeznutz Lug Nuts (two sets total), purchased on or after July 1, 2025. This new partnership builds on the momentum of the IHRA’s 2025 Outlaw Nitro Series and joins a growing list of industry-leading supporters. Hussey Performance, known for its high-performance copper gaskets and precision engine components, is also an official contingency sponsor of the IHRA in 2025. Both brands reinforce IHRA’s commitment to bringing quality back to grassroots drag racing and supporting racers at every level. (Photo Courtesy IHRA)

Press Release | IHRA Beginning with the opening round of the 2025 IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series, July 9–12 at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is proud to welcome Hussey Performance as an official Contingency Partner. Through this new partnership, racers who use Hussey Performance products and display the company’s logo on both sides of their race car will be eligible for contingency payouts at all IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series events in 2025. Contingency awards include cash to event winners and runners-up in all contested classes. “We're thrilled to partner with the IHRA as a contingency sponsor for the 2025 season and to be part of the exciting resurgence of such a legendary sanctioning body,” said David Allen, Owner of Hussey Performance. “Here at Hussey Performance, we've always been committed to supporting racers—from snowmobiles to Top Fuel—with American-made gaskets that deliver precision, durability, and performance. This partnership is our way of giving back to the racing community that continues to put their trust in us both on and off the track. Being based in Beaver Falls, PA, we're proud to be local to the heart of IHRA country—just a few hours from the majority of tracks on this year's schedule. It means a lot to be able to show up, shake hands, and support the racers face-to-face. We're proud to be on board and can’t wait to kick things off at National Trail Raceway this weekend.” The 2025 IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series season officially launched this week at Darana Raceway, with action beginning Wednesday featuring IHRA Pro-Am and Pro class competition. The event continues through Saturday with the first round of Outlaw Nitro action—headlined by Top Fuel, Funny Car, and more. (Photo Courtesy IHRA)

Photo by Ralph Garcia for Racing Refresh By Adam Carabine & Logan Morris Logan Morris: Hey Adam, we’re back, and the beat goes on for SVG at road courses. He put on a masterclass and largely outclassed the field! Adam Carabine: Hey Logan, good to be back here with you.  When you say “largely” outclassed, I think you’re being kind.  Shane Van Gisbergen showed up and made it look like he was driving on easy mode.  He was fantastic yet again, and there’s still another road course before the playoffs! He could potentially enter the playoffs with the most wins of any driver! LM: You’re right, he could, and that is pretty remarkable to think about. He is quickly cementing himself as the greatest road racer NASCAR has ever seen. He may already be just that. However, a couple more wins on the lefts and rights, and it’ll be undeniable. AC: It does bring up an interesting argument - because even though his oval performance has been getting better, it still leaves a lot to be desired.  If the “win-and-you’re-in” format wasn’t a thing, SVG would be 27th in points right now, far from the playoff cutline.  Does he deserve to be in the playoffs?  LM:  I’m not trying to be coy when I tell you that Sunday softened my stance a little, as you know I’ve been hard on him as far as the playoffs go. But, after Sunday’s drubbing of the field, that argument is becoming much more difficult to make. For all of us contrarian folks who want to deny the hype behind what SVG does, Sunday was a big blow. Sonoma is a staple of the NASCAR calendar and has been for decades.  There’s no experience crutch here. Maybe, he’s a truly generational talent as far as road courses go, and after his wallop in wine country, I’m starting to believe. AC: I understand the perils of the “win-and-you’re-in” and yet I still like it.  And I have liked it since I became a fan in 2019.  I know that it can lead to some weird moments like for example a late season Harrison Burton win at Daytona can throw everything into chaos.  But I like the emphasis on winning, and that it’s not enough to just finish well each week.  I think it encourages some more aggressive racing near the end of races, especially if it’s really close (unlike SVG at Sonoma).   So I think SVG belongs, and that’s exactly why Trackhouse Racing brought him up to the Cup Series, because they now have two of their three drivers locked into the playoffs.   Did anything in the race stand out to you? Other than the dominance of SVG - since we’ve probably said enough about that! LM: The pit road brouhaha between the 6 and 54 pit crews was something to see, wasn’t it? It’s not often we see pit crews being the first to get aggressive physically. What were your thoughts on that? AC: Yeah, it certainly has been a while since we’ve seen that.  It was disappointing we didn’t have some better camera angles to see what happened after the cars left their respective pit stalls.  At first glance, it did look like Ty Gibbs came in quite close to the Keselowski pit crew, but I do think NASCAR made the right call not to penalize anyone.  While yes, drivers are looking for any and every advantage they can get, I don’t think there was any malicious intent on Ty Gibbs’ part there.  He was focused on getting into his pit stall as fast as possible.  Brad K’s crew just happened to be getting ready there as well, and it was a close call. LM: I completely agree. I know Ty Gibbs ruffles some feathers, but a different angle clearly showed some were too quick to assume the worst, including Steve Letarte. That came across as awkward as the day went on. Did he lose a bet? Whatever the case may be, I’m glad it ended up being much ado about nothing, really.  AC: Hey, we got a fun little bit of drama between the crews!  Look on the bright side! We should also talk about the in-season bracket!  Ty Dillon somehow squeaks out another win, John Hunter Nemechek limps past teammate Erik Jones, Tyler Reddick sneaks past Ryan Preece in the final 10 laps or so, and Ty Gibbs simply just laughs at Zane Smith from much farther ahead in the field. Next weekend at Dover, we’ll have T. Dillon v. Nemechek, and Reddick v. Gibbs.   To me, this looks like anyone’s game, but what do you think? LM: Reddick v Gibbs is a solid match-up anyway you slice it. I feel like Reddick has a slight edge based on the old eye test. But if you dig a little deeper, Gibbs has stronger average finish numbers at Dover compared to his bracket adversary by a decent margin. I think Gibbs is going to the championship.  AC: At the very least, I think whoever wins this side of the bracket will be the eventual champion - though just for fun it would be hilarious to see Ty Dillon take the whole thing.  Good for him for really steering into this whole thing and showing how likeable of a character he can be.  It has certainly been some well-deserved more screen time for the oft-forgotten Dillon brother. LM: I completely agree. I’m sold, and I hope the in-season tournament comes back in 2026. Don’t ask me who I’m rooting for to win it all, though. Whoever wins will add to their legacy, that’s for sure.  AC: For sure.  Finally before we hit our awards for the week, I just wanted to comment on Cody Ware and his tire flying off.  First of all, it’s good to see Cody Ware back at the track after the scary collision last week at the end of the Chicago Street Course - well done by all involved on the safety crews.  But with him crashing into the tire barrier last week, then losing one this week - I suppose you live by the tire, and you die by the tire as well. LM: It has been a rough stretch for Cody Ware, no question. Sometimes it feels like if he didn’t have bad luck, he’d have no luck at all. AC: Agreed.  Anyway, let’s get to our awards! Best Performer LM: Let’s not overthink this. It’s SVG. He led 97 of 110 laps. He became the quickest driver to four victories since Parnelli Jones in 1967.  AC: Heck of a stat, and honestly well-deserved.  The guy is a beast on road courses, and it’s got to be intimidating to even be near him on that type of track.  SVG is my choice too. Biggest Move of the Race LM: You know, he’s gotten a lot of grief recently, but I have to go with the Pit call by Chase Elliot’s crew chief, Alan Gustafson. That call allowed his Georgia-born driver to rally from 14th to 3rd.  AC: That was a great call.  Risky, certainly, but it worked out well.  My biggest move of the race is going to be when SVG pitted ahead of the Stage 2 break to ‘jump the stage,’ and then he goes out and passes Kyle Larson for the lead again and wins it.  I can’t remember ever seeing someone pit ahead of the stage break and then go and win that same stage.  (And he also managed not to burn up his stuff while doing it - he went on to win the race too!) Biggest Disappointment LM: I’m going with AJ Allmendinger. Has anyone’s star ever dipped so low because of another driver's arrival? That’s happened to Allmendinger, thanks to the emergence of SVG. We expect “The Dinger” to contend for wins at tracks like Sonoma. Instead, he was up against it all day and brought his No. 16 Chevy home 18th. AC: Not a bad pick, honestly.  Allmendinger is usually always a contender at road courses, and he even seemed to think that he had a good car coming into the race Sunday.  Something happened and he spun out on his own, and he spent the rest of the day battling.  I do think his P18 finish is actually impressive based on the circumstances he battled early on.   I’m going to go with another disappointment - another driver who is notoriously good at road courses, Austin Cindric.  He was essentially a non-factor all day, and finished P30.  In Team Penske equipment, that’s not good enough. Biggest Surprise: LM: I have to go with Chase Briscoe here. This is, in his words, his worst track, and he was the runner-up and was the only car that wouldn’t have been completely fooling itself by simply flirting with the idea of winning. I’m not a Briscoe believer, but credit where it’s due.  AC: For the record, Briscoe has worse tracks than Sonoma (see Iowa, Nashville, WWT Gateway).  However, I actually decided to create this new award category this week for a particular driver.   Justin Haley - He finished in the Top 15, but what was MOST surprising for me - he earned the extra point for the fastest lap of the day.  I’m not sure where that came from, but he somehow bested SVG in this category and was rewarded with a bonus point, and a new award category in our article! What to Watch for Next Weekend LM: This week, we head to one of the constants of the NASCAR schedule, in Dover. It’s been on the calendar every year since 1969. The Monster Mile has unique banking combined with high speeds. What do you have your eye on? AC: As we get closer and closer to the start of the playoffs, the cutline is getting tighter and tighter.  I think Dover is a fun track that presents its own set of challenges, and it could be ripe for the taking.  My gut says we see a veteran win, but any new winner and we’ll be breaking out the calculators once again to figure out the cut line.  Either way, it should be a great weekend! LM: Let’s see if Dover proves to be a monster for someone’s playoff chances.

By Crystal Clay | July 14, 2025 SONOMA, Calif. — In a region where meals are crafted with care and victories are slow roasted, Shane van Gisbergen delivered a Sonoma win that matched the setting: clean, intentional and rooted in precision. Photo Credit: Ralph Garcia Before the action started, celebrity chef Tyler Florence served as Grand Marshal and drew clear parallels between the culinary world and racing. “A NASCAR race at Sonoma or a Friday night dinner service? It’s really similar,” he said. “It’s not about the chef or the driver. It’s about the team.” Florence noted how important the full sensory experience is for fans and diners alike. “The waft of melting pork fat is a big invitation for a very successful day,” he said. That moment captured Sonoma’s identity. It doesn’t need pyrotechnics. It thrives on detail. Van Gisbergen gave fans exactly that. There was red wine in Victory Lane, as tradition demands, but van Gisbergen didn’t take a sip. “I could see my crew chief’s eyes light up when it got handed to him, so I’m glad I handed it to him, and he finished it in one go, which was very impressive,” he said. “I don’t know if he’s been in here yet, but he might be talking funny.” Instead, he cracked a Red Bull. In wine country, he chose focus over festivity and won the right way. Entrance to Miller & Lux, Tyler Florence's San Francisco steakhouse. Florence served as Grand Marshal at Sonoma and drew parallels between hospitality and NASCAR teamwork during race weekend. PHOTO: Crystal Clay/Racing Refresh (July 14, 2025 San Francisco, Ca.) Van Gisbergen’s third NASCAR Cup Series win, and fourth overall for Trackhouse Racing this season, was no fluke. After finishing second to Connor Zilisch in the Xfinity Series race on Saturday, van Gisbergen reset overnight, reviewed his performance and poured his attention into Sunday’s main event. The win also marked his third road course victory in just over a month. Jeff Gordon was the last driver to accomplish that stretch, between 1998 and 1999. From the drop of the green flag, van Gisbergen managed his tires with control and clarity. Crew chief Stephen Doran credited simulator preparation and overnight adjustments after a lackluster practice session. “That was dicey,” Doran said, referring to a caution with 15 laps to go. His strategy relied on at least 10 cars staying out under yellow. Thirteen did. Photo Credit: Ralph Garcia Jeremy Kimbrough, a former offensive lineman for Appalachian State who later signed with Washington as an undrafted free agent, is now part of Trackhouse’s crew. When asked whether nerves kicked in during the final restarts, Kimbrough didn’t flinch. The team stood by like they knew SVG was going to lock it in. “Not at all,” Kimbrough said. SVG laughed when told. Kimbrough was also part of Trackhouse’s first Cup win at Sonoma in 2022, working alongside Daniel Suárez. “That’s pretty awesome they have that confidence,” he said. “Sounds like I was more nervous than them.” Briscoe, who lined up alongside van Gisbergen on the final restart, pushed hard but couldn’t find a way through. “I never played basketball against Michael Jordan in his prime, but I feel like that’s probably what it was like,” Briscoe said. “That guy is unbelievable on road courses. He’s really raised the bar on this series.” Briscoe credited his No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing team with helping him apply what Martin Truex Jr. had done well at Sonoma, giving him one of his best performances at a track he had once dreaded. The race behind them was filled with drama. Ty Gibbs’ pit crew and Brad Keselowski’s nearly came to blows during green-flag stops. Cody Ware lost a right-rear tire, bringing out a caution. Ryan Blaney was spun after contact from Chris Buescher and finished 36th. Kyle Larson was also collected in a separate incident. Noah Gragson struggled all afternoon and retired after contact during Stage 2. After the race, he tipped his cap to Zilisch, the only driver to beat him over the last two weekends. “Thanks for not being in the race,” van Gisbergen joked. “He places the car in perfect spots. If he ends up being my teammate or not next year, I hope he does. It’ll be a lot of fun.” Photo Credit: Betty Garcia With this win, Trackhouse Racing shifts focus toward playoff preparation. The team has road course dominance in hand, but Doran acknowledged they need continued gains on ovals. Sonoma doesn’t require showboating. It rewards restraint. Van Gisbergen delivered a performance that matched the personality of the region — patient, technical and perfectly seasoned.

(Photo Credit: Peyton Lohr/Racing Refresh) By Logan Morris Arguably, no name looms larger in drag racing history than “Big Daddy” Don Garlits. At 93, he has spent nearly his entire life pushing the sport forward, making history time and again. With 17 championships to his name, spanning the NHRA, AHRA, and IHRA, Garlits has remained at the forefront of drag racing for decades. He was the first driver to officially break the 200 MPH barrier and the inventor of the rear-engine dragster, a design that forever changed the sport’s safety and performance. To list every milestone would fill volumes. So it’s only fitting that Garlits added another chapter to his incredible story this past weekend, taking part in the IHRA’s revival event at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio. I caught up with drag racing’s godfather to get his thoughts on the IHRA’s return. He made it clear that while he loves the NHRA, he sees the IHRA’s comeback as a good thing for everyone who loves the sport. “Oh yeah, I hope to God they do good with it. We need to associate with them. I love the NHRA, but the guy died and it did well after that. I was around when the IHRA was born. The original guy was Larry Carrier, a really super guy. I thought they went away, but it looks like they’re going to come back.” When asked if he approached racing any differently depending on the association, Garlits didn’t hesitate. For him, the mindset was always the same, no matter whose logo was on the trophy. He also spoke about how important the IHRA’s return could be for grassroots racers. “Back in the day, there were three associations, and they were all about even. There was the A, the I, and the N. There wasn’t much difference…this is an organization offering an opportunity for a lot of people to race who haven’t been able to in a long time, and I think that’s what’s going to happen.” When the conversation turned to his favourite moment from an unmatched career, Garlits didn’t miss a beat. He took me back fifty years and delivered a masterclass in drag racing history. “When I won the 1975 world championship. NHRA put a race over IHRA’s finals in Bristol, and [Gary] Beck went out there, won it, broke his contract with IHRA, got sued, but won that race and got 400 points ahead of me. I had to go into Ontario 400 points down. It wasn’t physically impossible, but virtually impossible for me to win the race and the championship. Then I set both ends of the record, which stood for almost seven years, and won the championship, first over 250 MPH at that rate. It was incredible. In the second round, it was me and the Moonshine Guys from Kentucky with Dale Funk driving. Dale Funk comes over and says, ‘Big Daddy, what do you want us to do?’ I said, ‘What are you talking about?’ and he says, ‘We know what NHRA is trying to do to you — we want you to advance to another round.’ I said, ‘Dale, I don’t know what you ever heard about me, but I’ve never thrown a race. Let the best car win.’ Tears ran down his face. He said, ‘Big Daddy, that’s why you’re my hero.’ Then he tells his crew chief, ‘Robert! Put some nitro in it!’ and we ran the fastest side-by-side race to get to the fourth. I ran a 5.65 to his 5.71.” Standing at the historic venue, with its familiar concrete launch pad giving way to well-worn asphalt lanes, Garlits couldn’t help but reflect on the memories tied to this legendary strip of pavement. (Photo Credit: Peyton Lohr/Racing Refresh) “I just love it. It really wasn’t good at the time, but today I just love it. This is where Shirley [Muldowney] won her first big races. She beat me that day. I didn’t like it then, but it was a great thing for women and sports. She proved she was here to stay." "Then, another time with Mopar, naturally, I drove my little 1962 Swamp Rat Too. 205 MPH. A little short-wheelbase thing on gasoline, right at this track. My wife got mad at me and said, ‘Why would you do that? You promised me you weren’t going to drive.’” At 93, Garlits still isn’t content to rest on old trophies. True to form, he’s already looking ahead. In recent years, he has been developing an electric dragster project, determined to push the sport’s future forward just as he has so many times before. “Big Daddy” Don Garlits still lives and breathes the sport he helped build. And if there’s anything he loves more than making history, it’s finding new barriers to break.

(Photo Credit: Peyton Lohr/Racing Refresh) By Logan Morris Sunday at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, served as the impromptu final day of the Outlaw Nitro Series after a weather delay on Saturday, and it was undoubtedly worth the wait. History was made at Darana Raceway as the IHRA crowned its first winners in its comeback to the national event scene. In Top Fuel, Scott Palmer took home the Ironman after defeating Krista Baldwin in the finals. He ran a 3.958 ET at 314.24 MPH. Baldwin, meanwhile, ran a 4.125 ET at 293.28 MPH. When I had a chance to ask Palmer what this win meant to him he was candid about it being extra special. “It means a lot because they invested so much money and time into this deal. Larry Morgan, Darryl Cuttell. I mean, look at what Darryl’s invested here. This is a top-notch facility. Top-notch organization. I’m telling you, after a few races, Doug Foley Jr. has worked his ass off on this deal. For three months, just putting stuff together and just trying to get racers to understand how serious this is going to be.“ I also asked him how difficult it was to adjust to the conditions, given that the final round was originally scheduled to be run under the lights. He admitted it was difficult. “It was tough. Last night was tougher than today because we had more runs in the heat, but when it comes down to stuff like this, when it’s hot like this and greasy, and the track preparation here is second-to-none. This track is awesome, but when it’s hot and the sun is on it, it’s tricky. No matter where you’re at. Over the last twenty years, we’ve done a lot of match races. I’ve made eleven races, going to little tracks, and putting on a show for the fans, so I call it my ‘Ozark Raceway Park tune-up’, and I put it in the car and it runs 3.95 [ET].” (Photo Credit: Peyton Lohr/Racing Refresh) In Funny Car, Ohio native Mike McIntyre ran a 4.166 ET at 293.41 MPH to defeat former IHRA world champion Del Worsham and become $50,000 richer. Worsham ran a 4.160 ET at 305.56 MPH. When I asked McIntyre about what this meant to him being an Ohio native he was candid about his emotions. “We’re only two-and-a-half hours from here and just winning, winning in general, is just awesome. Whether it’s at home or not, being close at all makes it that much sweeter.” He was open about how special this one felt being the first IHRA event of its revival season. ““It’s cool. It’s cool, man. It’s indescribable right now. I mean, we’re just trying to take it all in and have a blast today.” (Photo Credit: Peyton Lohr/Racing Refresh) IHRA’s second event takes place July 23rd-26th, 2025 at Milan Dragway in Michigan.

(All Photos Credit: Peyton Lohr/Racing Refresh)