December 2017 News Archives

News from December 31, 2017

Truex Jr. Named Colorado’s Sportsperson of the Year: NASCAR champion Martin Truex Jr. has been named Colorado’s 2017 Sportsperson of the Year, the top honor awarded annually by Mile High Sports. The Furniture Row Racing driver, who graces the cover in the recent issue of Mile High Sports Magazine, was also named Colorado’s “Fan Favorite” Athlete of the Year in a fan vote conducted at MileHighSports.com. The Denver-based Furniture Row Racing also was cited for excellence, claiming the Mile High Sports honor as Colorado’s Team of the Year. Joe Garone, Furniture Row Racing team president, was a finalist in the Executive of the Year category.[More](12-31-2017)

Six bold predictions from Atlanta president Ed Clark: It’s not even 2018 yet, but with less than two months before the start of the 2018 NASCAR season – and not to mention the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Feb. 25 – AMS president Ed Clark already has racing on his mind. And that can only mean one thing: Ed Clark’s vaunted annual NASCAR predictions.[More](12-31-2017)

News from December 30, 2017

Congratulations to the Harvicks: Kevin and Delana Harvick welcomed Piper Grace on Thursday evening. She joins big brother Keelan.[More](12-30-2017)

MillerCoors unlikely to renew deal with NASCAR UPDATE:MillerCoors and NASCAR have not yet been able to reach an agreement to extend Coors Light’s official beer deal with the sanctioning body that expires this year, according to sources. That makes a renewal look increasingly unlikely as the sport’s offseason begins.(11-23-2017)
UPDATE: NASCAR officially is in the hunt for a new beer sponsor, as MillerCoors will not renew Coors Light’s deal as the official beer of the sanctioning body. The sides were not able to come to an agreement to renew the deal that expires on Sunday despite last-ditch efforts by NASCAR in recent weeks to salvage some form of a pact. The sides confirmed the move Friday but declined to comment further.[More](12-30-2017)

Martins Motorsports closes Truck team: Martins Motorsports has ceased operations for its NASCAR Camping World Truck Series team, owner and driver Tommy Joe Martins has revealed. Martins talked about his 2018 plans, which focus primarily on a part time NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule running for BJ McLeod. Martins earned his best finish in NASCAR national touring series race, 11th, last year at Iowa Speedway driving for McLeod’s Xfinity team. He cited this deal as a factor in the decision to suspend the truck program.[More](12-30-2017)

News from December 29, 2017

NASCAR releases new regional series marks, rules for 2018: As a record-setting 2017 comes to a close and competitors turn their attention fully on the 2018 season, NASCAR announced today several updates that will provide a new look to the touring series. The most immediate and noticeable is an introduction of new series marks for the NASCAR K&N Pro Series, NASCAR Pinty’s Series in Canada, NASCAR PEAK Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series, and NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.[More](12-29-2017)

News from December 28, 2017

David Ragan talks about 2018: There’s quite a bit of changes in store for David Ragan and Front Row Motorsports in 2018. Entering his 12th full-time Cup season and his fifth overall season with the team owned by Bob Jenkins, Ragan will have a new teammate in veteran Michael McDowell. When McDowell was announced as Ragan’s new teammate on Dec. 14, Front Row also announced an expanded technical alliance with fellow Ford team, Roush Fenway Racing.[More](12-28-2017)

News from December 27, 2017

Danica Patrick on retirement and her ‘Pretty Intense’ book release:Driving legend Danica Patrick, 35, who will retire after the 2018 Daytona 500 and Indy 500, has become a behemoth brand beyond the track. With a wellness book, “Pretty Intense,” releasing on Tuesday, the NASCAR driver discussed her “90-day mind, body and food plan,” as well as what retirement looks like for her and how she continues to build her lifestyle-brand-based empire. [More](12-27-2017)

Undeck the Hall at NASCAR Hall of Fame: The gift-giving season is not over for NASCAR fans. On Tuesday, fans were permitted to take a gift off one of the many decorated trees at the eighth annual Undeck the Hall tradition at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The gifts include autographed souvenirs, die-cast cars and race tickets. NASCAR tickets were the first to go.[More](12-27-2017)

News from December 26, 2017

Larson wants to run full World of Outlaws schedule someday: If Kyle Larson can have his racing dreams unfold the way he wants, dirt track fans may have plenty of reason to rejoice down the road.[More](12-26-2017)

News from December 24-25, 2017

NASCAR sets pit road, caution car speeds for 2018: NASCAR has released pit road speeds and caution vehicle speeds for 2018, with no changes from last season at the existing tracks that its three national series visit.[More](12-24-2017)

Germain Racing releases 2018 GEICO schemes: In addition to the standard design, Ty Dillon will drive the GEICO military scheme in five races.[More](12-24-2017)

News from December 23, 2017

Sabates interested in Carolina Panthers ownership: Over the previous week, Felix Sabates’ name arose as a possible buyer for the Panthers. Sabates currently has minority ownership in Chip Ganassi Racing and a minority ownership role in the Charlotte Hornets, the region’s National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise.[More](12-23-2017)

John’s March Against Stomach Cancer at Sonoma Raceway on January 20: Sonoma Raceway will open its 12-turn road course to walkers and runners alike as it hosts the West Coast’s only major fundraising walk for No Stomach for Cancer on Saturday, Jan. 20. The 7th annual John’s March Against Stomach Cancer will support the fight against the third leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.[More](12-23-2017)

News from December 22, 2017

Childress fires shots at men who attempted break-in: Authorities continue to search for three masked men who allegedly attempted to break into the home of Hall of Fame NASCAR driver and team owner Richard Childress. The incident happened at about 10:30 p.m. Sunday in the Reedy Creek community in Davidson County.(12-20-2017)
UPDATE: Clothing recovered from the home of NASCAR team owner Richard Childress could lead law enforcement to finding out the identities of three armed men, who are being sought for the attempted home invasion robbery, according to Davidson County Sheriff David Grice.[More](12-22-2017)

Kyle Larson & Katelyn Sweet engaged: The couple is expecting their second child.[More](12-22-2017)

ISC CMO Daryl Wolfe hired by NASCAR: NASCAR has named ISC Exec VP & CMO Daryl Wolfe Chief Sales & Partnership Officer of both NASCAR and ISC, giving him a unique, dual role selling for both the sanctioning body and one of the two major track operators.[More](12-22-2017)

News from December 21, 2017

Sad News – Barry Dodson: Barry Dodson, a savvy crew chief who led NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace to his lone premier series championship in 1989, died Wednesday. He was 64. Dodson worked with several of the sport’s top drivers and is credited with 19 victories in what is now the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. In addition to Wallace, Dodson also served as crew chief for Tim Richmond and Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip.[More](12-21-2017)

Morgan and Kyle Petty expecting baby: The couple were married in December 2015.[More](12-21-2017)

South Point Hotel & Casino extends partnership with Richard Childress Racing: The South Point Hotel & Casino will return to Richard Childress Racing as the primary sponsor on the #21 Chevrolet Camaro, piloted by Daniel Hemric, for the 2018 NASCAR XFINITY Series season. The 2018 season marks the seventh year of a partnership between RCR and the Las Vegas-based hotel and casino. The South Point will serve as the primary partner on Hemric’s #21 Chevrolet Camaro for all 33 XFINITY Series races during the 2018 season. [More](12-21-2017)

Shane Wilson joins JGL Racing: JGL Racing officials announced today the addition of veteran crew chief Shane Wilson to its 2018 NASCAR XFINITY Series lineup. Shane will serve as crew chief for Kaz Grala and the No. 24 Ford Mustang team. He will serve along side Steven Lane who switches over to the leadership position of Team Manager/Competition Director. [More](12-21-2017)

News from December 20, 2017

Childress fires shots at men who attempted break-in: Authorities continue to search for three masked men who allegedly attempted to break into the home of Hall of Fame NASCAR driver and team owner Richard Childress. The incident happened at about 10:30 p.m. Sunday in the Reedy Creek community in Davidson County.[More](12-22-2017)

Aspen Dental leaving NASCAR: The company sponsored Danica Patrick in 15 races last season and was the “Official Dentists of NASCAR.”[More](12-20-2017)

Niece Motorsports announces 2018 crew chief lineup: On the heels of setting its 2018 driver line up with rookie of the year contender Justin Fontaine behind the wheel of the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado and Austin Wayne Self piloting the No. 22 Chevrolet Silverado, Niece Motorsports has named Darrell Morrow and Chris Bohlman as the crew chiefs for Fontaine and Self, respectively.[More](12-20-2017)

News from December 19, 2017

Leavine Family Racing debuts 2018 paint scheme: Tuesday morning at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Leavine Family Racing unveiled the #95 Procore Chevy that will be driven by Kasey Kahne next season. Procore will sponsor the team for multiple races in 2018 & 2019.[More](12-19-2017)

Truex Jr. named New Jersey Sportsperson of the Year: If you were to rank all of the sports where a New Jersey native might become the best in the world, where would you have put NASCAR? Just a guess: It would be somewhere below baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, golf, bowling, track and field, gymnastics, fencing, badminton, archery, polo, lacrosse, swimming, volleyball, table tennis, skiing, snowboarding, sumo wrestling, jolleyball, mud wrestling, thumb wrestling and roller derby, and slightly above quidditch and podracing. Alas, here we are, in 2017. The greatest NASCAR driver in the world is Martin Truex Jr., a 37-year-old from the Mayetta section of Stafford Township. How small is Mayetta? It might be four or five blocks along Route 9 in Ocean County, so tiny that even the Wikipedia entry is tiny.[More](12-19-2017)

News from December 18, 2017

Air Force continues partnership with Richard Petty Motorsports for 2018: The Air Force begins its 18th year of sponsorship in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, partnering with Richard Petty Motorsports for a 10th consecutive season.[More](12-18-2017)

Disney / Fox deal could impact NASCAR coverage: The decision by 21st Century Fox to sell its TV and movie production units as part of a $52.4-billion deal with Walt Disney Co. means Fox will be the only broadcast network without a studio to supply its scripted shows.[More](12-18-2017)

Anderson’s Maple Syrup returns to Richard Childress Racing for 2018 season: Continuing a relationship which began in 2014, Anderson’s Maple Syrup will partner with Richard Childress Racing’s NASCAR XFINITY Series program. The Wisconsin-based pure maple syrup company joins Matt Tifft and the No. 2 Chevrolet Camaro team for a multi-race program for the 2018 season.[More](12-18-2017)

Matt Goslant joins New Hampshire Motor Speedway staff: After helping with the development of Cole Custer from NASCAR’s lower ranks to a stellar rookie campaign in the 2017 XFINITY Series, Matt Goslant will switch gears and return to his New England roots. Effective today, Goslant takes over the reins as the new vice president of operations and development for New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Goslant joins the New Hampshire Motor Speedway team after spending the last two years as the general manager of Stewart-Haas Racing’s No. 00 team. [More](12-18-2017)

News from December 17, 2017

NASCAR releases 2018 testing dates: The 2018 NASCAR Cup test schedule includes tests July 10-11 and July 17-18 on Charlotte “roval” w/each Cup team getting to participate in one of the 2-day tests. Organizational tests (1 per org) at Vegas (1/31-2/1), Richmond (8/27-28) & Kansas (9/24-25).[More](12-17-2017)

Allmendinger returning to the Rolex 24: After a one-year absence, AJ Allmendinger will return to the Rolex 24 at Daytona next month. Allmendinger, who drives for JTG Daugherty Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series, will once again drive for Michael Shank Racing in the endurance race at Daytona International Speedway, which will be held Jan. 27 – 28.[More](12-17-2017)

News from December 16, 2017

Top 10 die-cast of 2017: The die-cast car from Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s final race as a full-time Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series driver was the best-selling paint scheme for Lionel Racing in 2017. Lionel Racing released its top 10 list Thursday. Earnhardt paint schemes take up five of the 10 spots. The Axalta/Last Ride car at Homestead-Miami Speedway consisted of a design Earnhardt drove early in his career.[More](12-16-2017)

Denis, Denny & Mark’s Pro-Am Jam raises $322,000: The 6th Annual Denis, Denny & Mark’s Pro-Am Jam hosted by Student Transportation Inc. (STI) raised a record $322,000 at its 2017 event, an increase of 20 percent compared to last year. This brings the six-year fundraising total to over $1.3 million raised for the three host charities that share a common mission to provide better opportunities for children and the less fortunate. The annual celebrity concert and golf fundraiser, which features the partnership of NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, Hootie & the Blowfish founding member and lead guitarist Mark Bryan, and Denis Gallagher, Chairman and CEO of STI, took place October 23-24 at the Daniel Island Club in Charleston, South Carolina.[More](12-16-2017)

Sonoma Raceway 2018 tickets now on sale: Race fans looking to rev up their new year are in luck, as Sonoma Raceway has opened its ticket office for the 2018 race season. Tickets for major events at the Northern California racing facility are now available, including the Toyota/Save Mart 350 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series (June 22-24), Toyota NHRA Sonoma Nationals NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series (July 27-29) and Grand Prix of Sonoma Verizon IndyCar Series season finale (Sept. 14-16).[More](12-16-2017)

News from December 15, 2017

Rick Ware Racing acquires Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series charter for 2018: Officials from Rick Ware Racing (RWR) announced today that they have acquired a charter from a current Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series (MENCS) team to utilize during the 2018 season. The acquisition of the charter signifies that RWR will compete full-time in the Cup Series next season with the No. 51 entry beginning with the 60th annual Daytona 500 on Sun, Feb. 18, 2018. The Thomasville, N.C.-based team also plans to field an “open” car throughout the season with the No. 52 entry.[More](12-15-2017)

Stewart-Haas Racing announces 2018 driver/crew chief pairings:Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) has announced its 2018 driver and crew chief pairings for its four teams competing in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. Headlining the announcement is Kurt Busch’s return to the No. 41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford Fusion. The 2018 season will mark Busch’s 19th year in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and his fifth with SHR. Five of Busch’s 29 career victories have come with SHR, highlighted by his victory in the 2017 Daytona 500. Taking over as crew chief for Busch and the No. 41 team is Billy Scott, who joined SHR in 2016 as crew chief for Danica Patrick and the No. 10 team. Tony Gibson, who has been the crew chief for the No. 41 team since November 2014 and a crew chief at SHR since the organization’s inception in 2009, will remain with SHR in an unnamed capacity.[More](12-15-2017)

NASCAR still waiting on Monster’s sponsorship decision: Six month ago executives from NASCAR and Monster spoke positively about their still new and developing relationship that saw the energy drink maker take over entitlement sponsorship duties from Sprint, which had the role since 2004. Both sides were optimistic Monster would exercise a two-year option and remain in the role through 2020, with a decision needed by December.[More](12-15-2017)

Men sue NASCAR, Daytona for injuries stemming from 2015 race:Two Florida men have sued NASCAR and Daytona International Speedway for injuries allegedly suffered when Austin Dillon’s car flew into the catch fence on the final lap of the July 2015 NASCAR Cup race. John and Wayne Vanpatten claim in separate lawsuits that they were sitting in the 12th row of Level 3 and were hit by debris. They also said they were hit by a toxic fluid, which was sprayed onto Wayne’s arm and which John ingested.[More](12-15-2017)

Homestead volunteer organizations receive more than $120,000 The success of Homestead-Miami Speedway’s Ford Championship Weekend is a result of the support of many entities around South Florida. At this year’s event (Nov. 17-19), a total of 40 different local organizations contributed during NASCAR’s three-day championship tradition. Between Homestead-Miami Speedway and Americrown, a catering and concessions company which is also a subsidiary of International Speedway Corporation, more than $120,000 was donated to the organizations for their efforts in areas such as information centers, parking, grandstands, tram services, catering and concessions, among others.[More](12-15-2017)

News from December 14, 2017

Front Row Motorsports bolsters 2018 program with enhanced Ford partnership to field cars for Ragan, McDowell: Front Row Motorsports will step up its two-car Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series program in 2018 with an elevated partnership with Ford Performance. The Bob Jenkins-owned team will put experience behind the wheel of its Fords, re-signing veteran David Ragan and adding free agent Michael McDowell to the driver roster. The 2018 season will mark Front Row Motorsports’ ninth with Ford Performance, the team’s manufacturing partner since expanding to a multi-car organization in 2010. The agreement will include an expanded technical alliance with Roush Fenway Racing.[More](12-14-2017)

Mears focusing on Global Rallycross for 2018: Casey Mears is targeting a switch to Red Bull Global Rallycross for the 2018 season, with NASCAR and off-road trucks all on the cards. The Californian, who won the 2006 24 Hours of Daytona and the 2007 Coca-Cola 600, has been competing part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity series this year. Speaking to The Checkered Flag, Mears revealed that he is considering a move to Red Bull GRC, and is also in discussions for another part-time NASCAR deal, as well as looking at outings in Stadium Super Trucks.[More](12-14-2017)

Darlington to celebrate “Seven Decades of NASCAR” for Throwback weekend: In year four of its award-winning throwback platform, Darlington Raceway will be celebrating “Seven Decades of NASCAR” for its 2018 campaign. The Official Throwback Weekend of NASCAR will be celebrated during the track’s Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Bojangles’ Southern 500® and NASCAR XFINITY Series Sport Clips Haircuts VFW 200 weekend on Aug. 31-Sept. 2.[More](12-14-2017)

Daytona to host middle-distance triathlon: CHALLENGE FAMILY, Case Imagine and Daytona International Speedway announced the launch of CHALLENGE DAYTONA, an international professional middle-distance triathlon taking place at the iconic facility December 7-9, 2018.[More](12-14-2017)

News from December 13, 2017

NASCAR Fan Appreciation Day to be held on January 20: NASCAR Fan Appreciation Day returns on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2018, at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte. NASCAR Fan Appreciation Day, which follows the NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday, Jan. 19, will include autograph sessions with current national series drivers, NASCAR Hall of Famers and members of the NASCAR Next class, as well photo opportunities and question-and-answer sessions with a number of NASCAR legends. NASCAR Hall of Fame admission will be free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis during NASCAR Fan Appreciation Day. Admission to driver autograph sessions is free but will require a ticket for participation. Fans will be able to register for driver autograph sessions at nascarhall.com beginning Saturday, Jan. 13 at 10 a.m. A full driver autograph session schedule will be announced at a later date.[More](12-13-2017)

Niece Motorsports to form technical alliance with GMS Racing: Niece Motorsports announced today that it will form a technical alliance with GMS Racing for the 2018 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series season. In addition to the technical alliance, Niece Motorsports will move shop locations from China Grove to Statesville to be closer to GMS. The partnership will see GMS provide Niece Motorsports with chassis, body, suspension and engineering support.[More](12-13-2017)

2018 start times announced for the Camping World Truck Series:NASCAR released 2018 race start times and network coverage for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, including the season-opener at Daytona and the Camping World Truck Series Championship at Miami, both on FS1. [More](12-13-2017)

Neighbors go to court over New Hampshire Motor Speedway music festival plans: New Hampshire Motor Speedway will need to overcome at least one more obstacle before it is permitted to hold a three-day country music festival on its grounds this summer. Three neighbors sued the speedway in Merrimack County Superior Court on Monday, asking a judge to review a 28-year-old legal agreement between New Hampshire Speedway Inc. and townspeople saying that the track would not hold concerts on its premises.[More](12-13-2017)

News from December 12, 2017

Kurt Busch, sponsor Monster Energy remaining at Stewart-Haas:Kurt Busch, who said two weeks ago that he “absolutely” planned to return to Stewart-Haas Racing, has signed a contract to remain at SHR with sponsorship from Monster Energy, Busch announced Tuesday. Busch, the 2004 NASCAR Cup champion, had been a free agent since August, when the team didn’t pick up the option as it awaited word from Monster.[More](12-12-2017)

Richard Childress Racing and Caterpillar Inc. extend partnership:Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and Caterpillar Inc. have renewed their overall partnership and sponsorship of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series #31 Chevrolet Camaro team, and will use the platform for the introduction of new digital and social content campaigns. The partnership between RCR and Caterpillar began in 2009 and has been highlighted by the Cat Racing program’s consistent activation and engagement with Cat dealers and customers. [More](12-12-2017)

The Motorsports Group announces separation from Circle Sport:The Motorsports Group (TMG) announced today that Circle Sport will be not be returning in the managing partnership for the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series (MENCS) season. Eddie Pardue will continue with The Motorsports Group. TMG is currently seeking a driver and sponsors for next seasons entry.[More](12-12-2017)

McMurray thinking about the rest of his career: The young guns are here and more are coming, a youth movement that has some of NASCAR’s veterans thinking through the final years of their respective careers. Chip Ganassi Racing’s Jamie McMurray (41), who has one of those young superstars in Kyle Larson as a teammate, has a planned finite timeline for the remainder of his Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series career.[More](12-12-2017)

Jack Ingram injured in car accident UPDATE: NASCAR Hall of Famer Jack Ingram was seriously injured in a car accident in his hometown on Dec. 3. Ingram’s family indicated Monday morning that the former driver was receiving treatment in the intensive care unit near his Asheville, North Carolina home.
UPDATE: In an update Sunday written on CaringBridge.org, Ingram’s daughter, Ingrid Jones, said her father remains in the Intensive Care Unit at Asheville’s Mission Hospital.[More](12-4-2017)

John Hunter Nemechek to join Ganassi Xfinity Series team UPDATE: John Hunter Nemechek is taking the next step up the NASCAR career ladder. Nemechek, the 20-year-old son of NASCAR veteran Joe Nemechek, will move up to the NASCAR Xfinity Series next season, where he will share the driving duties in Chip Ganassi Racing’s No. 42 Chevrolet, Motorsport.com has learned. An official announcement of the move could come as early as Tuesday, sources said.(12-11-2017)
UPDATE: Chip Ganassi Racing announced that they have signed John Hunter Nemechek, a five-time winner in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and former NASCAR NEXT driver, to pilot the #42 Chevrolet Camaro in multiple NASCAR XFINITY Series races in 2018. Nemechek, 20, will work with veteran NXS crew chief Mike Shiplett, who has led the team for the last four seasons. Nemechek’s #42 Chevrolet will carry primary sponsorship from Fire Alarm Services, Inc. in 2018.[More](12-12-2017)

JAS Expedited Trucking to sponsor Vinnie Miller at JD Motorsports:JD Motorsports with Gary Keller and with recently signed driver Vinnie Miller are proud to welcome JAS Expedited Trucking as a full-time sponsor of the #01 Chevrolet Camaro in 2018. JAS Expedited Trucking, based in Imlay City, Mich., will serve as the primary sponsor of the #01 NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) entry driven by Miller in ten 2018 NXS events starting with the Rinnai 250 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Saturday, February 24, 2018.[More](12-12-2017)

2018 XFINITY race start times announced: NASCAR released 2018 race start times and network coverage for the NASCAR Xfinity Series, including the season-opener at Daytona on FS1 and the Xfinity Series Championship at Miami on NBCSN. Key time changes include a switch to night racing at Richmond Raceway in April, later start times in the spring for races at Texas Motor Speedway and Talladega Superspeedway and an earlier, 5 p.m. ET start time at Iowa Speedway in June and at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in September. In addition, the fall race at Texas now starts at 3:30 p.m. ET[More](12-12-2017)

News from December 11, 2017

RCR continues partnership with Bass Pro Shops: Richard Childress Racing (RCR) today announced plans to continue its partnership with Bass Pro Shops during the 2018 racing season. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s will serve as a primary sponsor for the No. 31 Chevrolet Camaro in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and the No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. The partnership marks the first time both iconic outdoor brands will be featured together since Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s joined forces in September 2017 to establish North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company. [More](12-11-2017)

Allison, Elder, Labonte, Parrott tabbed for NMPA Hall honors:Legendary drivers Donnie Allison and Terry Labonte, along with celebrated crew chiefs Jake Elder and Buddy Parrott, make up the National Motorsports Press Association’s Hall of Fame Class for 2018. The four will be officially inducted during ceremonies scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 21 in Charlotte, N.C.[More](12-11-2017)

Field Set for ‘The Clash’ at Daytona: NASCAR fans get a double-dose of racing action to open the 2018 season on Sunday, February 11, with The Advance Auto Parts Clash at Daytona International Speedway capping a day that starts with Coors Light Pole Award qualifying for the 60th Annual Daytona 500.[More](12-11-2017)

Kurt Busch returning to Stewart Haas: The Sports Business Journal’s Adam Stern tweeted Sunday evening that Stewart Haas Racing is expected to announce early this week that Kurt Busch has signed a contact to continue driving the #41 Ford.[More](12-11-2017)

John Hunter Nemechek to join Ganassi Xfinity Series team: John Hunter Nemechek is taking the next step up the NASCAR career ladder. Nemechek, the 20-year-old son of NASCAR veteran Joe Nemechek, will move up to the NASCAR Xfinity Series next season, where he will share the driving duties in Chip Ganassi Racing’s No. 42 Chevrolet, Motorsport.com has learned. An official announcement of the move could come as early as Tuesday, sources said.[More](-2017)

Stockman returning at Hemric’s crew chief: After ending his rookie Xfinity season with Randall Burnett as crew chief, Daniel Hemric will be back with Danny Stockman Jr. on top of his pit box in 2018. Hemric made the announcement Saturday during the Xfinity and Camping World Truck Series Award ceremony in Charlotte, North Carolina.[More](12-11-2017)

R.A.C.E donates nearly $75,000 to charitable entities in 2017:Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway’s charitable entity, Racing Advocates for Community Enrichment (R.A.C.E.), donated $58,647 in grants to 21 Chicagoland area charities at their year-end luncheon, raising its total charitable gifts in 2017 to a R.A.C.E. record-setting $74,479.[More](12-11-2017)

News from December 10, 2017

Austin Dillon, Whitney Ward marry: Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series driver Austin Dillon and Whitney Ward were married this weekend at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, North Carolina. [More](12-10-2017)

XFINITY, Truck champions honored: NASCAR traded the heat of Miami Beach for an unseasonably chilly Saturday evening in Charlotte for its annual XFINITY and Camping World Truck Series Awards. But there was no less warm a reception for two fresh-faced champions in a special night of appreciation at the sport’s home base. William Byron (XFINITY) and Christopher Bell (Trucks) were the toast of the annual gala, taking home the heaviest of hardware at the Charlotte Convention Center. The evening was part celebration and part farewell for the two, as both depart for their next step up the NASCAR ladder next season.[More](12-10-2017)

News from December 9, 2017

Larson to take over to sole ownership of sprint car team: NASCAR star and dirt racing veteran Kyle Larson will shift into sole owner of Larson Marks Racing starting in 2018. The team will be run under the Kyle Larson Racing banner and Justin Marks will assume an advisory role with KLR moving forward.[ More](12-8-2017)

Sad News – Ryan Yanoshak: Mr. Ryan Yanoshak, 42, a resident of Mount Pocono, formerly of Hanover Twp., passed into eternal life Friday morning, Dec. 8, 2017, in the care of the Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest location, following a prolonged and courageous battle against cancer. Until illness caused his early retirement from professional duties, Ryan had been employed as the managing director of marketing communications with the Pocono International Raceway in Long Pond for two years.[More](12-9-2017)

Gateway Motorsports Park receives Outstanding Facility of the Year Award at PRI Gateway Motorsports Park in Madison, Illinois, received the prestigious and coveted Outstanding Facility of the Year Award Wednesday evening at the annual Race Track Business Conference (RTBC) at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) trade show in Indianapolis. The annual award recipient is determined by leaders in the motorsports industry, media and sponsors.[More](12-9-2017)

News from December 8, 2017

Bowman unveils new 2018 #88 Axalta Camaro: To kick off a season of change, the #88 Axalta Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will debut a fresh look when it hits the track at Daytona in 2018. Featuring a predominately darker base color with bright pops of color on the sides, the unique scheme is a bit of a contrast to the fiery Axalta Chevy that Dale Earnhardt Jr. piloted in 2017.[More](12-8-2017)

Richard Petty Motorsports announces partnership with Richard Childress Racing: Richard Petty Motorsports (RPM) and Richard Childress Racing (RCR) announced today a new partnership between the two organizations. RCR will supply chassis and engineering support to the team. The RPM entry will receive horsepower from ECR Engines, the high-performance engine production, research and development subsidiary of RCR. With the transition, RPM will permanently move its team headquarters adjacent to the RCR campus in Welcome, N.C. The move will begin immediately and be completed by January.[More](12-7-2017)

Father of former Truck racer Justin Boston found guilty of fraud and money laundering: When federal prosecutors accused Robert Boston of fraudulently luring investors so, in part, he could fund his son Justin’s racing career, the four-day trial included arguments over whether racing is a viable marketing opportunity and how much should be spent by a startup company. Robert Boston was found guilty Friday by a 12-member jury on all four charges: conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, securities fraud and money laundering. Sentencing will come at a later date with a possible maximum sentence of 80 years. Federal prosecutors argued Boston conned investors to pour money into the computer recycling center Zloop. They claimed that he and Zloop co-founder Robert LaBarge spent on a lavish lifestyle as well as more than $6 million for Boston’s son, Justin, to race. Justin Boston was not involved in the scheme other than as being Robert’s son and driving the Zloop-sponsored race car. Boston won two ARCA races and had four top-10s in nine NASCAR Camping World Truck Series races. He has not raced in NASCAR since Zloop went bankrupt in 2015.[More](12-8-2017)

Crafton driving midgets during the off season: Matt Crafton had never sat in a midget before Wednesday. But a conversation over a couple of cocktails led the two-time Camping World Truck Series champion to Columbus, Indiana, the home of Keith Kunz Motorsports, where he was fitted for his latest ride. Crafton, 41, will make his USAC Midget debut in the Junior Knepper 55 at the Southern Illinois Center in Du Quoin on December 16.[More](12-8-2017)

Speedway Children’s Charities to distribute more than $3.2 Million:Speedway Children’s Charities officials announced today that the far-reaching nonprofit will distribute a record-setting amount of more than $3.2 million in grants to 435 charitable organizations across the country this year, bringing the total allocation amount to more than $52 million since the O. Bruton Smith family founded the nonprofit in 1982. Funds distributed by Speedway Children’s Charities chapters at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Kentucky Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway and Texas Motor Speedway totaled a staggering $3,270,240 in 2017.[More](12-8-2017)

News from December 7, 2017

Rick Ware Racing to lease charter from Petty in 2018: Richard Petty cleared up rumors that it had sold it’s prestigious NASCAR charter for the #43 car. He said neither of his charters had been sold but he is leasing out NASCAR’s No. 1 charter to Rick Ware Racing. The team is using the charter tied to the #44 car on the #43 car in 2018. The explanation, he said, was with the way NASCAR allotted charters for each individual car owner.[More](12-7-2017)

Whelen renews sponsorship with NASCAR: NASCAR and Whelen Engineering, Inc. announced today multi-year extensions to continue its entitlement sponsorship of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series through 2024. Additionally, Whelen will also extend its designation as the “Official Warning Lights of NASCAR.”[More](12-7-2017)

Danica Patrick’s talks with Ganassi break down: Talks between Danica Patrick and Chip Ganassi Racing about driving in the 2018 Daytona 500 and the Indianapolis 500 appear to have broken down, according to Chip Ganassi, who informed a packed crowd of the news at the Performance Racing Industry Show (PRI Show) opening breakfast.[More](12-7-2017)

Richard Petty Motorsports switching from Ford to Chevrolet, aligning with Childress: Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series team Richard Petty Motorsports is closing in on announcing that it will switch manufacturers from Ford to Chevrolet starting in ’18, according to sources.[More](12-7-2017)

JD Motorsports still working on 2018 roster: The team announced in September that Ross Chastain will return for the fourth consecutive year to the #4 Chevrolet Camaro, and last week it was announced that Vinnie Miller will join the team full-time in 2018 to pilot the #01 Chevy. Drivers for the team’s #0 and #15 cars are still to be confirmed.[More](12-7-2017)

LTi Printing to sponsor Team Penske in two races: Team Penske announced a new partnership today with LTi Printing, one of the nation’s leaders in print and print related solutions. As part of the multi-year agreement that begins with the 2018 season, LTi Printing will be featured as the primary sponsor on Team Penske’s championship-winning #22 Ford Mustang team for two races in the 2018 NASCAR XFINITY Series (NXS), including the event at Pocono Raceway in June and at Iowa Speedway in late July. LTi Printing will also be an associate sponsor on the #22 NXS Ford for the rest of the 2018 season.[More](12-7-2017)

Rheem to sponsor Christopher Bell and Ryan Preece: Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) announces today that Rheem will sponsor Christopher Bell and Ryan Preece in the NASCAR XFINITY Series in 2018. Rheem, a 10 year NASCAR sponsor, will have NASCAR’s 2017 Camping World Truck Series Champion Christopher Bell at the wheel for 23 races in JGR’s #20 Toyota Camry and break-through sensation Ryan Preece in the #18 Toyota Camry for 10 races.[More](12-7-2017)

Chad Norris to serve as crew chief for Spencer Gallagher: GMS Racing officials announced that veteran crew chief, Chad Norris will join Spencer Gallagher and the #23 team for the 2018 NASCAR XFINITY Series (NXS) season. With many successful years of experience in the NASCAR industry, Norris has worked alongside numerous top-name drivers like Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth, Trevor Bayne, Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr. and most recently Brennan Poole.[More](12-7-2017)

News from December 6, 2017

Schrader, Edwards, Mittler among Ozarks Racers’ Hall of Fame inductees: Ken Schrader has been driving race cars for nearly 50 years and he has no plans on slowing down soon. Proud of his Midwestern racing roots, Schrader said he’s humbled to be part of the 10-person induction class for the Ozarks Area Racers Foundation Hall of Fame on Jan. 6. Former NASCAR driver and fellow Missourian Carl Edwards along with St. Louis’ Mike Mittler are among those joining Schrader as honorees at the event, at the Ozarks Empire Fairgrounds E-Plex in Springfield. [More](12-6-2017)

News from December 5, 2017

Eddie Wood undergoes heart surgery: The procedure was planned and he is doing well.[More](12-5-2017)

Bayne and AdvoCare “Back in Black” for the 2018 season: Trevor Bayne’s AdvoCare Ford Fusion will sport a different look when it hits the track to begin the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series (MENCS) season as the famed Roush Fenway Racing #6 will be sporting the primary color of black. [More](12-5-2017)

Richmond Raceway Reimagined construction milestone with new pedestrian tunnel installation: Richmond Raceway Reimagined (Reimagined) hit a major milestone Monday with the installation of the new pedestrian tunnel. The $30 million infield redevelopment project at Richmond Raceway (Richmond) has been moving forward since the groundbreaking in September. The expanded pedestrian tunnel installed near Turn 1 will allow more fans to have access to the modernized infield.[More](12-5-2017)

News from December 4, 2017

Jack Ingram injured in car accident: NASCAR Hall of Famer Jack Ingram was seriously injured in a car accident in his hometown on Dec. 3. Ingram’s family indicated Monday morning that the former driver was receiving treatment in the intensive care unit near his Asheville, North Carolina home.[More](12-4-2017)

Andy Petree named VP of Competition at RCR; Eric Warren named Chief Technology Officer: Richard Childress Racing (RCR) has named Andy Petree as its new Vice President of Competition, and Dr. Eric Warren as Chief Technology Officer, effective immediately. The organizational moves bolster RCR’s competition department with more than 50 years of combined racing experience. Petree joins RCR on a full-time basis after he was brought on in an advisory role in October to conduct a comprehensive review of the team’s competition area. Warren holds a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from North Carolina State University and has held numerous roles in stock car racing dating back to 1997 including competition director, chief aerodynamicist and technical director. [More](12-4-2017)

News from December 3, 2017

Kyle Busch wins Snowball Derby: Kyle Busch returned to his short track roots over the weekend and won arguably the biggest race in the recent history of Super Late Model competition in the 50th annual Snowball Derby. The race featured NASCAR notables Corey LaJoie, Harrison Burton, Mason Mingus, Ty Majeski and Noah Gragson. And yet, the fight came down to Busch versus two Late Model lifers: Bubba Pollard and Jeff Choquette.[More](12-4-2017)

Keselowski interested in future Cup ownership: Hopefully, Keselowski’s hiatus from team ownership is temporary. Like his mentor Dale Earnhardt Jr., Keselowski provided an opportunity for a number of drivers to hone their skills in NASCAR’s feeder series before moving on to the next level. Ryan Blaney, Daniel Hemric, Tyler Reddick and now Briscoe and Cindric have all come through BKR.[More](12-3-2017)

News from December 2, 2017

NASCAR and Concussions: Concussions have recently become a major issue in professional sports, but they’ve been a health issue racers have faced for decades: The potential for head injuries that can debilitate for life. In the spring of 2002, Dale Earnhardt Jr. wrecked hard during a NASCAR race, with the driver’s side of his car slamming the concrete wall at a frighteningly high speed.[More](12-2-2017)

News from December 1, 2017

Truex honored as NASCAR’s newest champion: It was fitting for Martin Truex Jr. to be introduced as NASCAR’s newest champion by his buddy Dale Earnhardt Jr. It was Earnhardt who helped Truex venture out of New Jersey to give it a go in NASCAR. Now, nearly 15 years later, Truex was on racing’s biggest stage.[More](12-1-2017)

The Lynch Racing Co. acquires Iowa City Capital Partners’ position in BK Racing: The Lynch Racing Co., a division of Sport Venture Group, today acquired Iowa City Capital Partners’ stake in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Team BK Racing which was owned and controlled by Anthony Marlowe.”After four seasons as a minority owner in NASCAR’s Premier Series, I have decided to harvest my investment. It has been a wild ride; I wouldn’t change a minute. I am thankful to Ron and Brenda Devine. Regardless of whether BK Racing ever wins a Cup race one day, they are worthy of my appreciation. It takes great courage to make the investment the Devine’s have made regarding time and money. Not to mention saving my backside from a sudden change in the direction of Swan Racing early in the 2014 season.” said Anthony Marlowe.[More](12-1-2017)

PPG builds on long-standing partnership with Team Penske for 2018: Bringing new opportunities to one of the most enduring partnerships in racing, Team Penske announced today that PPG is expanding its relationship with the organization in 2018. Team Penske and PPG will celebrate their 34th season together in 2018 with the company reaffirming its commitment by becoming a primary sponsor of the team’s No. 12 Ford Fusion driven by Ryan Blaney in six Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series (MENCS) races next season. As part of the enhanced program, PPG will also serve as an associate sponsor for Blaney [More](12-1-2017)

Speedway Motorsports recognizes year’s best at annual awards ceremony: In an effort to recognize greatness across its premier motorsports facilities, Speedway Motorsports, Inc. (NYSE: TRK) officials have named Sonoma Raceway Director of Facilities, Lino Ramos, as the O. Bruton Smith Award recipient for 2017. In addition, Atlanta Motor Speedway President and General Manager Ed Clark was recognized as the Speedway Motorsports’ Promoter of the Year and Las Vegas Motor Speedway earned Speedway of the Year honors. The awards were announced Wednesday during Speedway Motorsport’s Annual Awards Ceremony in Las Vegas.[More](12-1-2017)