Formula 1 is expensive, no shock there. But did you know a single wheel nut on an F1 car can set a team back nearly £1,000? Multiply that by four wheels, multiple sets per race, and suddenly teams are pouring upwards of £50,000 just into these small parts every race weekend.

The story starts in the early days when pit crews hammered on wheel nuts to swap tires. Impact guns hadn’t turned up yet, and teams struggled with multiple studs that took ages to change. Cars used single centrelock nuts with wings to prevent the wheels spinning on the hub a mallet swung by hand signaled when the nut was tight enough.

Ferrari even equipped their road cars, like the 365 GTB Daytona, with mallets in the toolkit because that’s how they secured wheels back then.

Over time, engineers faced a serious problem: wheels under heavy load during braking and acceleration cause twisting forces that slowly worked nuts loose. To combat this, they reversed thread directions left and right side, so braking tightened rather than loosened nuts. But on driven rear wheels, this created its own headaches.

That ushered in an evolution: hexagonal wheel nuts with retention systems preventing them from flying off mid-race. Teams developed splined nuts that seated faster and allowed quicker pit stops. Captive nuts meant crews didn’t have to remove and replace nuts manually, streamlining the swap.

The nuts became part of the car’s aero story, too. Ferrari’s ingenious brake duct shrouds integrated into the wheel nuts cut drag but were banned for moving device concerns only to return as fixed shrouds that revolutionized airflow.

Today’s nuts feature twelve splines for perfect socket alignment, coarse threading for speed, and color-coding for quick pit recognition. Despite this, human error and tight pit lanes still cause dramas like Mercedes’ infamous stripped nut in Monaco.

Manufactured in-house with aerospace-level precision, every nut is x-rayed for cracks, anodized for durability, and made of lightweight aluminum that’s strong but wears quickly. The high wear plus limited reuse drives costs sky-high.

With 13 sets of tires handed out per race, teams burn through wheel nuts like candy. Even with some remachining, the weekend bill for a single car’s nuts tips over the £50,000 mark.

It's incredible to think such a small part carries so much engineering, innovation, and cost. But in a sport where tenths of a second matter, wheel nuts are one of many tiny details that add up to glory or disaster.

So next time you see a pit stop blitz, remember: that nut snapping on just right is worth more than most road cars. 

The answer isn’t simple. In sim racing, screwing up means a quick reset. On track, mistakes happen at 120 mph with real consequences. And critics aren’t shy to doubt whether a sim champ can cut it behind a metal wheel with a foot on the pedal.

Sebastian’s day kicks off at Snetterton with coach James Wallis, a pro GT racer who knows the car inside out. The two swap notes, dialing in setups, chasing lap times bleedingly close to what Sebastian hits on the sim—1:53 was the benchmark, and he’s hitting it.

From the first session, adrenaline pumps hard. “Feels natural,” Sebastian says, but the G-forces push him into the seat like a rocket, reminding him the real car talks a different language through every vibration, every slip on the tires.

Early laps bring lessons: locked brakes, loops off corners, and mental notes scribbled in sweat that pushing too hard isn’t always smart. But he adapts fast, shaving his time lap after lap, and by the end, sits just a second shy of race pace.

Data dumps after every run teach him more than hours on sim tracks ever could. How hard to brake, when to trust the grip, how the weight shifts through corners—it’s a whole new world layered on top of what his hands and eyes have trained for virtually.

The real danger? Physical strain. Sim racing demands endurance of the fingers and brain. Racing cars demands every muscle, every nerve, floodlight sharp. The brutal forces will test Sebastian’s body as much as his skill.

This is just the first chapter. Next comes formula cars—smaller, faster, meaner machines where mistakes aren’t forgiven. Can a sim racer turned rookie rise? Time and laps will tell.

What’s certain is that the gap between virtual and real racing is shrinking. 

Built for Detonation, Not Longevity

At the NHRA Finals in 2022, Brittany Force cracked 338 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Top Fuel dragsters pull over 8 Gs at launch, beating any rollercoaster, and ramp up faster than the speed junkies of Formula 1 ever dreamt. All this violence comes from an 8.2-liter V8 that’s barely changed since the ‘50s—except everything’s been dialed up to eleven.

These engines are limited to 500 cubic inches by the rules and rely on pushrod two-valve heads, a world away from the cam-crazy, high-tech powerplants you see in F1 or Le Mans. Here, simplicity is the trick; complicated systems don’t stand a chance. There’s no water cooling—nitromethane fuel carries its own oxygen and helps keep things from melting.

Nitromethane: Rocket Fuel for the Road

Forget gasoline. Top Fuel engines burn nitromethane—a solvent that usually powers explosives, not hotrods. Nitro’s magic? It holds its own oxygen, so you can pump nearly ten times more of it into an engine compared to petrol. You wind up with volcanic combustion and angry, yellow fireballs streaming from the pipes.

A Top Fuel mill can chug 11 gallons of nitro per second, more than a 747 at takeoff. Fuel is forced in with a massive 2.5-inch line at 500 psi, feeding 34 individual injectors. You need a spark hot enough to weld with, so the twin magnetos blast 160,000 volts into each cylinder.

Indestructible Isn’t the Point

Inside, the hardware is honed for shock and awe. The crankshaft? Solid billet steel, built to punch through a wall. Connecting rods? Giant forged aluminum hunks, because they handle monster shocks better than titanium. Everything is replaceable and disposable—the typical rod is only good for a dozen runs if you’re lucky, and every bearing, gasket, and piston takes the walk of shame after each race.

Running at 9,500 rpm, they turn a maximum of 900 revolutions under load. Bearings disintegrate, spark plugs lose their tips halfway through a run, and the heat—over 1,400°F—means exhaust valves are made from heatproof Inconel like you’d find in a Saturn V rocket.

Supercharging, Air, and Sheer Explosiveness

Topping the engine is a monstrous supercharger, originally designed for big rigs, now run with a 65 psi output thanks to a Kevlar-belt drive. The blower itself can eat 800 horsepower just to function, and it’s shielded by a Kevlar blanket because sometimes, well, things go bang.

Combustion spits so much torque and force that just the exhaust pipes shoot a thousand pounds of downforce into the chassis, helping glue the fat, wrinkly slicks to the pavement. All that force means there’s no fancy gearbox—just a massive clutch system that locks up at 280 mph, finally sending full power to the wheels.

Sacrificial Power

This muscle doesn’t last: every power stroke tries to rip the engine in half. Pistons crack, rods bend, bearings disappear, sometimes the fuel floods and nearly seizes the thing solid. The engine “lives” for three seconds, then the crew tears it apart, resets everything, and gets ready for another go. If nothing blows up, it gets a new set of parts anyway, because the next run could be the one where that rod decides it’s had enough.

Engineering, Chaos, and Art

Why chase an engine that explodes after one race? Because that’s where the thrill is. Safety tech and design improvements might get you a few more seconds of mayhem—and a bigger run at the trophy. But reliability is always just good enough to make it to the finish, never more. The rest is all about making music at the ragged edge of science.

Top Fuel dragster engines are the ultimate expression of “live fast, die young.” They are monsters designed to survive just long enough to spit fire and drop jaws. It’s chaos, it’s skill, and it’s utterly addictive. For three seconds at a time, nothing else on wheels comes close.

Set in Colorado, this grueling 12.42-mile course climbs over 4,700 feet with 156 hairpin turns and sheer drop-offs, stretching up to a summit of 14,115 feet above sea level. Founded by Spencer Penrose to publicize the newly constructed Pikes Peak Highway, it remains the second-oldest motorsport event in the U.S., second only to the Indianapolis 500.

The race has evolved from rough gravel roads to a fully paved course by 2012, challenging generations of drivers and riders alike. Iconic racing families like the Unsers and legendary figures such as Sebastien Loeb have left their marks on this demanding mountain track. Hill climbing there tests not only driving skill but also endurance and bravery, as racers confront the effects of extreme altitude, including significant power loss for internal combustion engines and physiological challenges for the drivers.

Guy Martin’s journey to conquer this mountain involves custom-building a turbocharged motorcycle to compensate for the thin mountain air that can sap up to 30% of engine power. He trains in a hypoxic chamber to adapt his body to the harsh high-altitude conditions, while documenting the intricate challenges of learning the 156 corners, managing the temperamental bike, and navigating the perilous, cliff-bordered switchbacks. Against a backdrop of iconic racers and natural beauty, Guy’s story is one of determination, passion, and the pursuit of mastering one of motorsport’s toughest tests.

This documentary-style episode offers an in-depth look at the history, technical demands, and human drama of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, portraying it as an ultimate racing challenge where man and machine must harmonize to succeed.Guy Martin takes on the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, a race with over a century of history that started in 1916 as a publicity stunt for the newly built Pikes Peak Highway by Spencer Penrose. Rising from 9,402 to 14,115 feet over 12.42 miles, the course features 156 hairpin turns and dangerous cliffs without guardrails, making it one of America’s oldest and most perilous motorsport events, second only to the Indianapolis 500 in age.

Originally a gravel and dirt road, Pikes Peak was fully paved by 2012 to mitigate environmental damage, but maintained its daunting character. The hill climb has been home to racing dynasties like the Unsers, and record holders such as Sebastien Loeb, whose blistering 8:13.878 minute ascent in 2013 remains unsurpassed.

The extreme altitude dramatically affects both man and machine, reducing oxygen levels and cutting engine power by about 30%. Racers must overcome these physical and mechanical challenges while navigating the mountain’s treacherous switchbacks. Guy builds a custom turbocharged motorcycle to compensate for power loss and trains in a hypoxic chamber to boost his own performance at altitude.

This episode delves into the race’s rich history, the legendary drivers and riders who’ve tackled it, and the extraordinary preparation required to compete, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of why Pikes Peak is dubbed “The Race to the Clouds.” It’s a story of skill, endurance, and human spirit set against breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery and intense competition.

Featuring a wide range of vehicles and incidents, it highlights the risks and real consequences involved in motorsports and vintage car rallies. The video serves as a powerful reminder of safety advancements over the years and the unpredictable nature of racing and historic car events. Fans of classic cars and motorsport history will find this collection both intense and captivating.

Set in South Africa, where the Polo is currently produced, the film reunites legendary racing models like the Polo WRX, Polo R WRC, and RX1e for a celebration of speed and style. World champion Johan Kristoffersson showcases the Polo’s racing credentials, drifting through iconic landscapes and connecting past triumphs to today’s innovation.

The story culminates with a look ahead to the all-electric ID. Polo, arriving in 2026, promising best-in-class practicality, advanced safety, and an innovative use of space. More versatile and accessible than ever, the new Polo embodies continuity and fresh excitement within Volkswagen’s lineup, ensuring the legacy thrives for generations of drivers and motorsport fans.

Travis Pastrana set a new record of 5 minutes 28.67 seconds at the 2021 Mt. Washington Hillclimb, achieving overall victory driving the Airslayer STI, his 862-horsepower 2020 Subaru WRX STI. This time shaved more than sixteen seconds from his 2017 winning time on the steep, narrow, and challenging 7.6-mile Mt. Washington Auto Road. His run was over 45 seconds faster than the second-place competitor.

The Mt. Washington Hillclimb, held traditionally every three years, is the oldest hillclimb in North America and one of the most demanding motorsport events in the United States. The course is renowned for its notoriously unpredictable weather and a mixed surface that shifts from tarmac to gravel unexpectedly. It features an average grade of 12% with treacherous drops above the treeline, requiring exceptional courage, skill, and precise equipment.

The Airslayer STI boasts a highly developed aerodynamic package that provides significant downforce, a considerable power increase from Pastrana’s previous 600-horsepower WRX STI used to set the 2017 record, major suspension upgrades, and an ultra-light curb weight. These factors made the car tailor-made for the demanding nature of hillclimbs. Pastrana’s intense focus and commitment during his record run provided thrilling entertainment for the thousands who lined the roadside to watch.

Pastrana described the car as “the perfect machine” for this challenge and expressed excitement for future runs. His record-breaking performance cements both his skill and Subaru’s engineering prowess on one of the most formidable motorsport stages.nrsubaru+1youtube

Filmed at Brands Hatch, the production team recreated the high-intensity accident using real stunts, including launching a car with a catapult system designed to propel the vehicle at speeds around 120 mph onto a tire wall, simulating a severe crash. The launch even overshot the target, sending the car over 100 meters into the trees, a deviation embraced by the filmmakers for its dramatic effect.

Damson Idris, performing his own stunts, was strapped into a rig capable of rotating 360 degrees to authentically simulate the violent spins of a car crash. The actor completed five full rotations during filming, capturing the physicality and danger of such an incident.

Brad Pitt, portraying Sonny Hayes, is featured in a fiery wreckage scene where his character is nearly trapped in the flames. The filmmakers used a controlled mixture of propane and other fuels to create a realistic and intense fire with thick smoke. Safety was paramount, with fire experts on set and rehearsed procedures to ensure the actors' wellbeing.

The crash sequence drew inspiration from real Formula 1 incidents, including insights from driver Romain Grosjean’s crash experience, emphasizing authenticity in portraying the mind-set and physical stress during such critical moments.

Overall, the behind-the-scenes reveals the painstaking effort to combine practical effects, stunts, and emotional storytelling to bring a visceral and believable racing accident to the screen. F1® The Movie is now available digitally, offering fans a thrilling glimpse into the highs and lows of professional motorsport racing.

The video starts with a lineup and quick introduction of the cars, each iconic in their own right and beloved by car enthusiasts. The race kicks off with strong launches from the cars, showcasing their power and speed. The Mitsubishi Evo VI nails the standing 1/4-mile in 13.0 seconds, leading the pack, followed by the Nissan Skyline GTR at 13.5 seconds. The Nissan Silvia S15 and the Toyota Supra Mk4 both clock in around 13.8-13.9 seconds, with the Toyota Chaser and Honda NSX rounding out the times.

Next is the rolling race from 50 mph in third gear, where the Nissan Skyline R34 shines again with its smooth gear changes and exhaust pops. Finally, a brake test from 70 mph to a complete stop puts the cars to the ultimate test of control. The Nissan Skyline GTR edges ahead in this final challenge, followed closely by the Toyota Chaser and other contenders.

The race highlights the distinct strengths of each JDM legend, with the Evo mastering acceleration, the Skyline excelling in gear changes and braking, and close competition among the rest. This showdown pits timeless Japanese performance models against each other, thrilling fans with their raw power and classic appeal. The video offers a deep dive into how these beloved cars perform in muscle-based challenges beyond just their virtual Gran Turismo fame.

The development of the car was a large-scale effort involving the team and the Toyota network globally, with a particular challenge posed by integrating the engine, requiring extensive design work to meet targets and timelines.

The launch event highlighted the pride and excitement of the team, with the new car representing not just Toyota, but also the prestigious GR brand in the sport. This addition brings fresh pressure but also motivation, as the team aims to win races and the championship while carrying the Toyota flag.

The entry of Toyota and its GR brand into the Supercars scene signifies the category’s stature as one of the world’s premier touring car championships and reflects the sport’s growing appeal and manufacturer involvement. The connection with Toyota's 86 model as a development pathway for emerging drivers was also highlighted, indicating a long-term plan within the brand’s motorsport strategy.

Overall, the launch underlines a renewed competitive spirit and ambition within the Repco Supercars Championship, with Toyota’s presence expected to elevate the competition level and fan engagement.

This momentous reveal points to an exciting season ahead as Toyota takes its place among the elite racing teams in Australia’s top motorsport category.

The Slayground series has become known for its daring stunts and high-level moto performances, and this latest installment continues that legacy with fresh tricks and jaw-dropping maneuvers. Axell — a celebrated figure in freestyle motocross — blends technical skill with fearless athleticism to master the custom track. His flair for innovative stunts and flawless execution captivates audiences and motorsports fans worldwide.

The video immerses viewers in the excitement of motocross freestyle, combining high-energy music and on-the-spot monster energy drink moments, adding an authentic, behind-the-scenes vibe to the action. Fans following Axell’s journey can also catch up on earlier installments, Slayground 1 and 2, which laid the foundation for this progressive stunt showcase.

Aside from the adrenaline-fueled rides, the video reflects the culture around professional motocross, emphasizing camaraderie, boldness, and the dedication required to excel at such a high-risk sport. The San Diego setting provides an ideal backdrop, with a dedicated track engineered for this high-precision sport.

For those interested in following Axell Hodges or the extended Slayground series, social media channels and websites offer updates, behind-the-scenes content, and community engagement to celebrate the vibrant world of freestyle motocross.

Josh pilots a Ford Puma WRC Rally1 car, an all-wheel-drive rally beast engineered for grip and stability. Conor counters with a wild 1000-horsepower Toyota GT86 drift car, rear-wheel drive, tuned for spectacular sideways slides and style.

The trio of challenges tests precision and style: a tight parking maneuver contest measuring clean handbrake skills, a fastest-lap drift circle demanding control and speed, and a final time attack around a drift pursuit course that blends technical corners with flashy donut spins.

Rallying’s grip-focused, tactical precision takes on drifting’s flamboyant, smoke-filled showmanship. Each driver showcases their strengths, improvising on the fly and adapting to unique obstacles. Josh’s WRC car impresses with speed and composure around tight corners, while Conor’s toy delivers thrilling sideways slides and expert throttle control.

The video delights motorsport fans with vivid close-up shots, expert commentary, and palpable competitive tension. It celebrates two distinct disciplines of car control—rally’s calculated grip versus drifting’s expressive flair—without an obvious winner, leaving viewers to judge who reigns as king of car control.

Overall, this Red Bull Motorsport production offers an electrifying mix of automotive skill, personality, and entertainment that honors the unique expertise each discipline demands.

Zachary Yager has been a pit crew member at the NASCAR ranks since 2014. He was a former Daytona 500 winning crew member.

Yager has died at an early age. The news was first reported by Toby Christie.

This season, he’s worked on the No. 39 RSS Racing team via the NASCAR Xfinity Series. In addition, he’s been working on the No. 88 for ThorSport Racing via the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

He has been the Jack Man for both teams. In years past, he’s served many duties of the over-the-wall crew.

As of now, there is currently very little information on his death. This post will be updated if more information becomes available.

Yager was 35 years old.

On Monday, ThorSport Racing issued the following statement.

“We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our friend and teammate, Zachary Yager,” ThorSport opened.

They added, “He was an important part of our family, and our hearts are with his loved ones and community as we grieve this loss together.”

Yager was not at the track over the weekend at Daytona International Speedway for the Xfinity Series race.

At the end of last season, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports each owned two charters. Then, each team purchased an additional charter, bringing each team’s total to three charters.

Recent sale prices estimate charter values north of $40M.

23XI and FRM elected not to sign the most recent charter agreement. Instead, they opened an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR as they were seeking a more favorable agreement. A line in the new agreement would have prevented the teams from opening a lawsuit so they elected not to sign.

NASCAR lawsuit opened by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports

The teams initially filed a preliminary injunction with the courts. And they won, the teams were allowed to race with charter benefits while the lawsuit was ongoing.

NASCAR appealed the ruling and very recently, they won the appeal.

With the win, they were able to remove all charter benefits from 23XI and FRM. The teams are now racing as if they are Open entries while the antitrust lawsuit continues.

NASCAR wins court appeal to claim charters from 23XI / FRM

Now, things are progressing and it’s getting dark.

NASCAR has stated they already have an agreement to transfer one of the charters previously held by 23XI / FRM to another team for the 2026 season.

They noted that it’s one of the original charters held by 23Xi or FRM. It’s not one of the additional two charters purchased from Stewart-Haas Racing at the start of this season.

The teams and NASCAR are heading to a court hearing on Thursday. NASCAR is looking for the courts approval to transfer the charter. The teams are looking for the opposite, to have their charter status returned until the end of the trial.

If a sale is approved, this could be the end for both teams.

NASCAR has an agreement to transfer a charter amid lawsuit

“Plaintiffs will indisputably suffer irreparable harm if NASCAR is allowed to carry out its plan to immediately sell their charters to other entities before trial, because that would put 23XI and Front Row out of business following the 2025 Cup Series season,” a filing on Monday from the teams read.

“This Court has already found that it is not economically viable to race as open teams on a long-term basis, and NASCAR did not challenge that finding on appeal.”

“Plaintiffs will also suffer irreparable harm if they do not have charter rights for the rest of this season, because it will cause their drivers and sponsors to seek to leave.”

23XI Racing has already stated that Tyler Reddick gave the team a breach of contract notice. A note in Reddick’s contract requires the team to provide a car with charter status for him to race.

“This Court has the authority to preserve the status quo and prevent NASCAR from selling the charters before the December 1 trial. Otherwise, Plaintiffs will face the imminent destruction of their businesses regardless of how the jury rules.”

“NASCAR’s Opposition is a brazen effort to deny reality. It is striking in its failure to even address most of the smoking-gun documents that admit NASCAR viewed competitive entry as a threat.”

Brad Keselowski says the NASCAR lawsuit is a threat to the sport

23XI Racing Driver Lineup:

– Bubba Wallace (No. 23)

– Tyler Reddick (No. 45)

– Riley Herbst (No. 35)

Front Row Motorsports Driver Lineup:

– Noah Gragson (No. 4)

– Todd Gilliland (No. 34)

– Zane Smith (No. 38)

Ryan Blaney drove to victory lane in a thrilling ending. They were four wide at the finish line.

3.297 million viewers tuned in on average with a rating of 1.76. The numbers were first reported by Adam Stern.

The race was the second most-watched sporting event of the weekend. The Tour Championship took the top spot.

Daytona Results: August 23, 2025 (NASCAR Cup Series)

August 23, 2025
Viewers: 3.29M
Rating: 1.76
NBC

August 24, 2024
Viewers: 3.5M
Rating: 1.9
NBC

August 26, 2023
Viewers: 3.26M
Rating: 1.8
NBC

August 28, 2022 (Rain)
Viewers: 1.4M
Rating: 0.88
CNBC

August 28, 2021
Viewers: 3.92M
Rating: 2.25
NBC

August 29, 2020
Viewers: 3.86M
Rating: 2.41
NBC

July 7, 2019 (Rain)
Viewers: 3.28M
Rating: 2.12
NBC

July 7, 2018
Viewers: 4.43M
Rating: 2.72
NBC

Click here to view the 2025 NASCAR playoff grid

The more recent charter sales are estimated over $40M.

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports are suing NASCAR alleging antitrust. They elected not to sign the charter agreement for 2025 and instead went to court. The trial for that case is expected later this year.

NASCAR lawsuit opened by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports

And there’s been a lot of big rulings leading up to that trial…

In December, the teams won a preliminary injunction forcing NASCAR to recognize 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports as charter teams. They received race earnings, as if they were charter holders.

NASCAR appealed that ruling. In April, NASCAR won the appeal and they have since revoked charter benefits from both teams.

Related: NASCAR wins court appeal to claim charters from 23XI / FRM

NASCAR has claimed three charters from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. Now, NASCAR already has an agreement to transfer ownership of one of those charters to another team.

That’s according to a new filing on Monday. The wording noted, “plans to issue a charter.”

The team name was redacted from the document. Additionally, it’s unclear if NASCAR is selling that charter or giving it away.

NASCAR is stating they will suffer irreparable harm if they are not allowed to transfer the charter.

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports are saying they will suffer irreparable harm if they are not given their charters back. They noted that Tyler Reddick has already handed them a breach of contract notice as his contract requires the team to provide a charter entry.

NASCAR and both teams will be in court on Thursday. The teams are looking for the courts to return their charter status and prevent NASCAR from transferring the charter.

Brad Keselowski says the NASCAR lawsuit is a threat to the sport

“NASCAR’s Opposition is a brazen effort to deny reality. It is striking in its failure to even address most of the smoking-gun documents that admit NASCAR viewed competitive entry as a threat.”

The teams are saying they would be out of business in 2026 if the transfer of the charter goes through.

“This Court has already found that it is not economically viable to race as open teams on a long-term basis. And NASCAR did not challenge that finding on appeal.”

23XI Racing Driver Lineup:

– Bubba Wallace (No. 23)

– Tyler Reddick (No. 45)

– Riley Herbst (No. 35)

Front Row Motorsports Driver Lineup:

– Noah Gragson (No. 4)

– Todd Gilliland (No. 34)

– Zane Smith (No. 38)

NASCAR commissioner speaks on the antitrust lawsuit

On Friday, qualifying was canceled due to lightning strikes. However, William Byron would have been starting at the back of the field regardless…

The No. 24 car driven by Byron actually cleared inspection on his second attempt through the line. After passing inspection, car adjustments become limited per the rules book.

Actions by the crew after clearing inspection have resulted in a penalty.

NASCAR officials said the team made unapproved splitter adjustments to the car, after clearing inspection. The car was pulled off the grid and told to go through inspection again.

NASCAR stated, “On their second attempt through inspections after passing all stations the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet was observed making an unapproved adjustment to the splitter. The struts were reinstalled, and the car was rerun over the underbody scanning station and failed due to the adjustment.”

As the car ran through inspection, it failed due to the adjustment. NASCAR has issued a penalty to the Hendrick Motorsports team.

Byron will be forced to start at the back of the field on Saturday. He’ll also have to serve a stop-and-go penalty at the start of the race. The team has also lost pit selection.

Rudy Fugle, crew chief for the No. 24 has been ejected from the speedway. Brandon McSwain will fill-in as the crew chief for the race.

Byron has already clinched the 2025 regular-season championship.

Additionally, the No. 78 car driven by BJ McLeod failed inspection twice. Car chief Lee Lesile has been ejected for the rest of the weekend. The team has also lost pit selection.

NASCAR starting grid and TV schedule for Daytona International Speedway

The following includes various levels of inspection penalties:

1 Failure
No Penalty

2 Failures
Crew member of NASCAR’s choosing ejected. Additionally, the team loses pit selection.

3 Failures
Not permitted to qualify plus above penalty. They also have to serve a pass-through penalty at the start of the race.

The green flag is set to drop on Saturday night in Daytona Beach, FL.

View Daytona results for the NASCAR Cup Series below.

Daytona Menu
Xfinity: Prac/Qual | Race
Cup: Prac/Qual | Race

Daytona TV Schedule

Ryan Blaney and Alex Bowman set the front row. 160 laps of stock car racing are up next…

Laps: 35 (1-35 / 160)

Green flag, Logano shoves Blaney clear off turn two. Larson shoves Bowman back even on the inside lane. Laps later, Blaney is finally clear via the outside lane.

Lap 11, Casey Mears spins, caution. William Byron will get the free pass after serving a pass-through penalty at the start of the race.

Green, Blaney leads the outside lane as Suarez leads the inside lane.

Lap 18, Tyler Reddick and Todd Gilliland rub fenders off turn four. Reddick slams the inside wall and the caution is out.

Green, Bubba Wallace clears Blaney via the inside lane! Wallace pulls up and catches the bumper of Blaney. Wallace is blocking runs from both lanes.

Lap 25, Suarez to the lead on the inside.

Lap 28, they run three wide through the tri-oval. Bubba Wallace comes across the nose of Logano. Kyle Busch and Wallace spin in front of the field. Alex Bowman, Austin Cindric and others are collected.

Green with 2 to go in stage one, Blaney leads the outside lane as McDowell leads the inside lane. Blaney is clear into turn three.

1 to go, Blaney blocks a run from McDowell. Larson pulls even on the outside.

Kyle Larson wins stage one at Daytona International Speedway!

Daytona Results (Stage 1) : 1. Kyle Larson; 2. Ross Chastain; 3. Ryan Blaney; 4. Michael McDowell; 5. Justin Haley; 6. Joey Logano; 7. Todd Gilliland; 8. Ryan Preece; 9. Chase Briscoe; 10. Christopher Bell

Laps: 60 (36-95 / 160)

Larson leads the field to the pit lane. Brad Keselowski wins the race to the pit exit. Cody Ware stays out.

Green flag on stage two, John Hunter Nemechek clears Ware off turn two.

Lap 43, Keselowski shoves Ware to the race lead.

Lap 57, Ty Dillon to the lead with a push from Justin Haley. Dillon begins blocking runs from both lanes.

Lap 65, they form three wide for the race lead. Ross Chastain to the race lead!

Shane van Gisbergen works the outside lane and he takes the lead away. Laps later, he’s shuffled out of line and Ross Chastain reclaims the lead.

Chase Briscoe shoves Cody Ware back to the front. Ware can’t make it to the end of this stage on fuel.

Lap 79, Briscoe works inside of Ware into turn three. Ware drops through the middle and falls outside the top 10. Custer to the lead on the outside lane.

Lap 83, Carson Hocevar blows an engine and the caution is out.

Custer leads the field to the pit lane. Logano wins the race to the pit exit on a strategy call. Byron, Elliott and others stay out.

Green with 8 to go in stage two, Larson shoves Byron to the lead. Larson dives inside into turn three. Byron holds the lead.

6 to go, Briscoe shoves Logano to the lead. Briscoe dives inside, Briscoe to the lead.

2 to go, Byron and Logano split Briscoe. Briscoe drops through the field. Chastain shoves Logano to the lead.

1 to go, Christopher Bell shoves Ross Chastain into turn three. Chastain pulls even with Logano.

They run side by side to the line, Ross Chastain wins stage two!

Daytona Results (Stage 2) : 1. Ross Chastain; 2. Christopher Bell; 3. Joey Logano; 4. William Byron; 5. John Hunter Nemechek; 6. Chase Briscoe; 7. Ryan Blaney; 8. Ryan Preece; 9. Ty Gibbs; 10. Kyle Larson

Laps: 65 (95-160 / 160)

Penalty: Chase Elliott pits as the pit lane is closed due to low fuel. Elliott will drop to the rear of the field.

Chastain leads the field to the pit lane. Christopher Bell wins the race to the pit exit. It’s a slow stop for Blaney and Chastain.

Green flag on stage three, Bell and Nemechek run side by side into turn one.

Lap 108, Denny Hamlin slows with a flat tire. The caution is out.

Nemechek pits from the lead with the entire field. Many cars dives back to the pit lane with 1 to go to top off fuel.

Green, Logano and Dillon run side by side. Dillon is clear and he blocks Logano into turn one.

42 to go, Erik Jones shoves Joey Logano to the lead.

20 to go, Logano is blocking runs from both lanes.

18 to go, Logano misses a block. Erik Jones works to his outside and he takes the lead away.

13 to go, Logano spins off the bumper of Erik Jones! The caution is out.

Green with 8 to go, Jones and Haley run side by side into turn one.

6 to go, Haley is clear on the inside lane. Erik Jones is shoved out of line. Ryan Preecei pulls even with Haley.

2 to go, Larson splits Preece and he pulls even with Haley at the front of the field. Custer Custer makes it three wide for 2nd.

1 to go, Blaney shoves Custer to the lead! Haley is back to the lead off turn two.

They form three wide for the win into turn three.

Blaney and Custer run side by side off turn four. Blaney clears him and he’s blocking three lanes behind him.

View NASCAR points after Daytona International Speedway below.

The 16 driver playoff grid is now set. Kyle Larson and William Byron are currently tied in the playoff bracket after earning 26 playoff points throughout the regular season.

The opening round of the playoffs begin next weekend at Darlington Raceway. After three races, four more drivers will be eliminated from the playoffs.

Daytona Results: August 23, 2025 (NASCAR Cup Series)

August 31, 2025
Darlington Raceway

September 7, 2025
World Wide Technology Raceway

September 13, 2025
Bristol Motor Speedway

— Round of 16 concludes (Four drivers eliminated) —

September 21, 2025
New Hampshire Motor Speedway

September 28, 2025
Kansas Speedway

October 5, 2025
Charlotte Motor Speedway (Roval)

— Round of 12 concludes (Four drivers eliminated) —

October 12, 2025
Las Vegas Motor Speedway

October 19, 2025
Talladega Superspeedway

October 26, 2025
Martinsville Speedway

— Round of 8 concludes (Four drivers eliminated) —

The highest finisher of the 4 drivers will be crowned the season champion.

November 2, 2025
Phoenix Raceway

Watch the NASCAR crash video below.

Bubba Wallace, Joey Logano and Kyle Busch formed three wide exiting turn four. They ran out of room in a hurry.

It appeared that Wallace came down after a push from Kyle Larson. Logano held his ground.

As they met in the middle, Wallace was hooked across the nose of Logano. With Logano in the middle, Kyle Busch was was turned.

Austin Cindric, Alex Bowman, Ricky Stenhouse Jr, Zane Smith and many others were collected in the crash. NASCAR dropped the red flag for extensive clean up.

All drivers were released from the care center.

Daytona Results: August 23, 2025 (NASCAR Cup Series)

On the TV broadcast, Wallace took blame for the incident after one look at the crash. However, moments later, he circled back and said it a little different…

“I need to take another look at it. It looked like the No. 5 hit me and got me down there,” Bubba Wallace told Matt Weaver.

“I hate that we tore up a bunch of cars. So, I think that I looked and it was ‘Blame Bubba Wallace National Day’ today so I’ll take the blame for it.”

“I didn’t think the aggression level was too high at that point. I thought everyone was playing nice.”

He added, “I hate it. We got to the lead fairly quick. It was setting up to be a good day.”

“All kinda just came together. It was very unexpected. The No. 12 moved up and the No. 22 was trying to, not really bully his way up, just to take the line away. I kinda held my ground. And the next thing I knew we were three wide.”

Wheeler helped catapult NASCAR to fame with the World 600 and pre-race stunts. Bold promotions at Charlotte Motor Speedway made the track a must-visit NASCAR venue.

The track became the first 1.5-mile track to install lights and host a night race. That came directly from Wheeler.

Those unique promotions catapulted Wheeler to general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway. In 2008, he left his role at CMS.

Wheeler was 86.

Charlotte Motor Speedway issued the following statement Thursday morning:

“Charlotte Motor Speedway was blessed to have a leader in Humpy Wheeler who can only be described as ONE of a kind,” Charlotte Motor Speedway opened in a statement.

“For more than 30 years, Humpy was a promoter’s promoter at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Alongside our founder Bruton Smith, Humpy pushed the speedway to new and greater heights – establishing the famed 1.5-mile superspeedway as not only the most innovative facility in NASCAR for fan, partner and competitor amenities, but also one of the most progressive in all of sports.”

“Humpy’s engaging smile and flair for promotion were legendary, and his impact on every stakeholder in motorsports will be long-lasting. Often described as the “P.T. Barnum of Motorsports,” Humpy not only made his mark with publicity, but also with a laser-focus toward the fans.”

“He would often tell his staff to pay attention to “the three Ts – tickets, traffic and toilers” in order to ensure fans have the best possible experience. He would also say it was our job to put a little “technicolor in people’s black-and-white lives.”

“While the Motorsports world has lost an icon, the legacy H.A. ‘Humpy’ Wheeler created by building and promoting remarkable events at Charlotte Motor Speedway will continue for generations to come.”

NASCAR released the following statement on Thursday morning:

“Humpy Wheeler was a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport,” NASCAR CEO Jim France opened.

“During his decades leading Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy transformed the fan experience through his creativity, bold ideas and tireless passion. His efforts helped expand NASCAR’s national footprint, cement Charlotte as a must-visit racing and entertainment complex and recently earned him the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s prestigious Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR.”

“ON behalf of NASCAR and the France family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Wheeler family and all who were touched by his remarkable life and legacy.”

Related: Bruton Smith has passed

Mario Andretti: “Rest in peace Humpy Wheeler. There are many giants in the industry; Humpy was the master. There will never be another one like him. That is the enduring legacy of Humpy Wheeler. Godspeed and safe journey to heaven my friend.”

Richard Petty: “I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Humpy Wheeler. Humpy was one of a kind, a true showman and one of the sharpest minds this sport has ever seen. We’ll all miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

Rusty Wallace: “On behalf of my family and our organization, I’d like to offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Humpy Wheeler. A NASCAR Hall of Fame Landmark Award winner, Humpy made an irreplaceable impact on our sport and how it operates. He was a true innovator that was far ahead of his time and he helped nurture countless future leaders in our sport. While Humpy may be gone, his legacy will undoubtedly live on. He will be greatly missed.”

Clint Bowyer: “Saddened of the news that Humpy Wheeler passed away. What an incredible promoter and visionary. He always figured out a way to give the fans the “bang for their buck” that they deserved. ALWAYS had time to stop and catch up. NASCAR was/is better because of him.”

World of Outlaws: “We will continue to strive to be the consummate promoter Humpy Wheeler was and carry forward his vision for entertaining fans and creating compelling events.”

View the NASCAR qualifying order for Daytona International Speedway below.

Zilisch stood on the roof of his car to celebrate his win. He slipped on the window net that hung over the door and he slammed the pavement, face first.

The race winner was out cold. The safety team put him in a neck brace and carried him on a stretcher to the ambulance.

Shortly after, Zilisch went into surgery for a broken collar bone. He was cleared on all other scans.

Connor Zilisch falls unconscious after NASCAR win (Video)

Now, just two weeks later, Zilisch is returning to the car. He’ll qualify tomorrow in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Daytona International Speedway.

Zilisch stated via X, “Cya tomorrow DAYTONA thank you to my doctors, surgeons, and everyone who has supported me through this ordeal.”

He shared a text message that read, “Letter has been received. Email has been sent. You are officially cleared.”

As of now, Zilisch will attempt to qualify the car on Friday at Daytona International Speedway. Parker Kligerman will be on standby as a reserve driver.

Zilisch remains unclear if he will climb out of the car during the race. If he does, Zilisch will still earn points for the event via reserve driver Kligerman. However, he will not earn any additional playoff points if that driver switch takes place.

NASCAR driver Connor Zilisch has surgery after fall in victory lane

“That video has probably been viewed over 100 million times and to think that’s what is going to get a 100M views in our sport, kinda sucks,” Connor Zilisch told Bob Pockrass.

“But, those are the things that go viral in the world we live in. As much as I hate that’s what our sport is getting eyeballs for and that’s why I’m on ABC World News, Jimmy Kimmel, that’s part of it.”

“I was just on a call with Adam Alexander and he was like, ‘It was the most awkward 2 minutes of TV I think I’ve ever had in my life.’ I hate that I did that to them.”

“I got the wrong eyeballs on NASCAR but I’m glad that it wasn’t any worse. I’m glad my leg and my head are okay for the hit I took.”

“It could have been much worse. I can laugh at it now but I will remember that race forever for probably the wrong reason.”

He’s the current points leader in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

The following includes all on-track NASCAR action:

3:00pm ET
CW App
NASCAR Xfinity Series
Qualifying

5:05pm ET
truTV | MRN
NASCAR Cup Series
Qualifying

7:30pm ET
CW | MRN
NASCAR Xfinity Series
Race

7:30pm ET
NBC | Peacock | HBO Max
NASCAR Cup Series
Race

On Saturday, the NASCAR Cup Series raced at Richmond Raceway. Austin Dillon drove to victory lane claiming his first win of the season and locking himself into the playoffs.

View Richmond TV ratings below.

Saturday night’s NASCAR Cup Series race brought in 1.4M viewers on average with a rating of 0.75. This was first reported by Adam Stern.

Last year’s race drew a significantly larger audience at 2.2M. However, the event was held on a Sunday instead of Saturday.

NASCAR has struggled with Saturday viewership in comparison to traditional Sunday events. With the recent release of the 2026 schedule, only three NCS events will be run on a Saturday.

2026 NASCAR schedule released

August 16, 2025
Viewership: 1.4M
Rating: 0.75
USA

August 11, 2024
Viewership: 2.2M
Ratings: 1.2
USA

July 30, 2023
Viewership: 2.430M
Rating: 1.4
USA

August 14, 2022
Viewership: 2.390M
Rating: 1.45
USA

September 11, 2021
Viewership: 1.784M
Rating: 1.07
NBCSN

September 12, 2020
Viewership: 1.738M
Rating: 1.05
NBCSN

September 21, 2019
Viewership: 1.779
Rating: 1.05

2026 NASCAR schedule released

Dover Motor Speedway is a 1-mile concrete oval located in Dover, Delaware. The track was purchased in 2021 by Speedway Motorsports, LLC.

This will be the first time since the track opened in 1969 that the NASCAR All-Star Race will be held at the track.

The NASCAR All-Star Race is a non-points event that pays $1,000,000 to the race winner.

The event typically features race winners from the previous and current season. Details regarding eligibility for the 2026 event have yet to be announced.

The 2026 NASCAR All-Star Race is scheduled for May 17, 2025.

“We are beyond excited to host the NASCAR All-Star Race at The Monster Mile in 2026,” said Mike Tatoian, Dover Motor Speedway’s president and general manager.

“The mid-May dates historically offer great weather in our region and we are already hard at work on plans to make the entire weekend a special one for our fans. Stay tuned for lots of updates and fun additions to the weekend – including the return of the wildly successful Miles Beach, presented by Visit Delaware – in our famous Fan Zone.”

“Hosting the NASCAR All-Star Race at The Monster Mile is a win for Delaware’s economy and tourism industry,” said Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer.

“In 2026, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, fans from across the globe will come here for the thrill of race weekend, discovering our beaches, history, and hospitality along the way. And take it from the First State: if you’re not first, you’re last!”

The weekend will also feature the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

Dover Results: July 20, 2025 (NASCAR Cup Series)

Full list of tracks that have hosted the NASCAR All-Star Race:

1985
Charlotte Motor Speedway

1986
Atlanta Motor Speedway

1987-2019
Charlotte Motor Speedway

2020
Bristol Motor Speedway

2021-2022
Texas Motor Speedway

2023-2025
North Wilkesboro Speedway

2026
Dover Motor Speedway

Delano Merritt, the current owner has worked at the track since 1968.

On August 17, 2025, Merritt reached an agreement to sell the track. Former NASCAR winner Ricky Craven has purchased the track.

Craven is a native of Newburgh, Maine. He remains the only Main-born driver in the NASCAR Cup Series driver to even win a race.

The new owner has planned “extensive renovations” in the coming years. Those are expected to include upgrades to both the track as well as the surrounding amenities.

“Today is a monumental day for me and my family,” Ricky Craven opened in a track release.

“I have been friends with Del for decades and admired the dedication he has given for his track, team, and all associated with Speedway 95.”

“I am dedicating the rest of my life to a track that has been part of my DNA for many years. Both my Mom and Dad won races at Speedway 95 in the 70’s. I have the honor of receiving the checkered flag and a black flag from Del during my racing at Speedway 95 in a strange way, I benefited from both.”

“Now Del and I can say we are forever connected through Speedway 95. We will in the near future share with all the people with equity in this track our intentions to do some aggressive vision of how this facility will continue to evolve.”

“It includes several phases that I can not wait to get started. I want to thank Del, his family, Kim, Shawn, and the entire team at Speedway 95, and of course all of the people that have competed or been associated with the track since 1966.”

“The details of our plans will be announced at a later date. Del and I will work closely together to finish out the 2025 Speedway 95 race season which will run through October 12th.”

Craven retired from the NASCAR Cup Series following the 2004 season. He collected a two race wins in his career.

NASCAR lawsuit opened by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports

NASCAR has issued new court filings in the lawsuit with the teams. The sanction states they do not have a stock car racing monopoly noting competition from the CARS Tour, which is an asphalt late model division.

NASCAR added in the filing, “In addition to the long list of exceptions, which include every major known racing organization and sanctioning body in North America, the Goodwill Provisions in the 2016 and 2025 Charters also allow Team Owners to seek NASCAR’s approval to race in other series.”

“NASCAR has never withheld approval from any Charter holder (including direct and indirect Team Owners, as defined by the 2016 and 2025 Charters) to race in any other stock car series or any other racing series.”

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports likely to lose NASCAR charters after ruling

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports recently made a request to the court that the teams return to charter status. A ruling on that request is pending.

Meanwhile, NASCAR is requesting that the courts allow them to sell the charters by October 31st. They are also requesting that money earned by the teams for running as a charter teams in the first part of the 2025 season to be returned.

NASCAR stated that the court cannot force them to do business with teams that they do not want to do business with.

The series says there is wide-ranging interest in the charters that were held by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. However, the trial on Dec 1 will take place just months ahead of the 2026 season.

If the trial takes 2-3 weeks, that leaves a little more than a month for the charters to be redistributed to NASCAR teams.

NASCAR is asking the court not to issue an injunction. They note that 23XI and FRM have no legal rights over their charters as they never agreed to terms and instead forfeited their charters.

NASCAR wins court appeal to claim charters from 23XI / FRM

— NASCAR also claimed they pay higher percentage of its operating income to charter teams than Formula One pays to its teams.

— They also noted 2016 charter payments increased annual payments to teams by 28% on average over the pre-charter period.

— In the latest charter agreement, NASCAR says they increased those payments by another 62% for the 2025-2031 charter period.

All full-time teams to file financial info amid NASCAR lawsuit

Denny Hamlin is a co-owner of 23XI Racing. And with the new filing, Hamlin says NASCAR is set to release the 2026 schedule as a distraction.

Hamlin stated via X, “This is where a schedule would come out to divert your attention.”

23XI Racing Driver Lineup:

– Bubba Wallace (No. 23)

– Tyler Reddick (No. 45)

– Riley Herbst (No. 35)

Front Row Motorsports Driver Lineup:

– Noah Gragson (No. 4)

– Todd Gilliland (No. 34)

– Zane Smith (No. 38)

However, Crafton has gone winless in recent years. His last race win came in 2020 at Kansas Speedway.

Today, Thorsport Racing announced that Crafton intends to retire from full-time NCTS racing following this season.

Ty Majeski who currently drives the No. 98 for ThorSport Racing will make the move to the team’s No. 88 entry in 2026.

“Thorsport Racing announces a new charter for its stories No. 88 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series entry,” the team opened in a statement.

“Three-time series champion Matt Crafton will complete his full-time role after the 2025 season. His 23-year partnership with Menards is the longest-running driver/primary sponsor relationship in NASCAR history.”

“Teammate and 2024 series champion, Ty Majeski will pilot the No. 88 full-time in 2026.”

The team stated in a release, “A West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame inductee, Crafton is a cornerstone of ThorSport’s legacy.”

Crafton has collected 15 race wins in a career spanning 585 races thus far.

Ty Majeski just claimed his first series title last season. The 31-year-old has 6 career race wins in the NCTS after 107 races.

Matt Crafton | ThorSport Racing | NASCAR

With the win, Dillon is now locked into the 2025 playoffs. The win comes with just one race remaining before the playoffs begin.

And, he did it with a broken rib. Dillon suffered the injury at home and he’s now been racing for three weeks with the broken rib.

He’s been hiding the injury until this point…

“Oh, by the way, I’ve been racing with a broken rib this whole time,” Dillon stated from the front stretch, just after claiming the win.

“I don’t like to talk about it, but I fell off a ladder pulling my bow case off, getting ready for hunting season,” Dillon added in the media center.

“Fell on top of the bow case. It knocked the breath out of me. Knew it was pretty bad. Went ahead and raced Iowa. I got it X-rayed — seventh one on my right (side) is broken.”

“I’ve been racing with it. It’s been pretty painful. I raced Watkins Glen, Iowa, then here. Should be good. It’s made pretty big improvements over the last two weeks.”

The 35-year-old now has six career wins in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Cody Ware's attempt to wreck John Hunter Nemechek pic.twitter.com/90fcWCqlGR

— Andrew (@Basso488) August 17, 2025

Coming to the restart, Cody Ware was already knocking on the bumper of John Hunter Nemechek. Heading into turn three, Nemechek dove for the bottom lane, Ware followed him.

Nemechek then make a quick more to the outside. Ware lined him up and shoved him into turn three.

Ware was running 38th at the time.

As they returned to turn one, Nemechek passed him back. Once again, Ware leaned on his rear bumper.

A crash ahead of them brought out a caution.

The No. 51 team stated, “Alright, we got that out of the way with the No. 42. Just mind you business. We already did it, already did it!”

At the same time as that radio transmission, it appeared that Nemechek brake checked Ware. Ware drove right into the back of him.

The team jumped back on the radio, “(expletive) that. We’re going to end up wrecking ourselves.”