Photo credit: Porsche

Porsche Motorsport North America is adding an indoor-karting pipeline to its driver development ladder through a new multi-year partnership with K1 Speed, the companies announced. The agreement is aimed at turning K1’s points-based monthly racing structure into a more direct on-ramp for standout drivers to reach Porsche Sprint Challenge North America or Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West.

The arrangement has a public-facing branding component and a competitive incentive. Porsche Motorsport branding will be displayed across all 72 K1 Speed karting centers in the United States, while K1 Speed decals will appear on the front bumper of cars competing in Porsche Carrera Cup North America, Porsche Sprint Challenge North America, Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West, and Porsche Endurance Challenge North America.

At the sporting level, the companies plan to select two drivers from among the top racers who reach K1 Speed’s national competition, one from the teen class and one from the adult class. For those two drivers, the entry fee for a future season in Porsche Sprint Challenge North America or USA West will be waived, according to the announcement.

‟K1 Speed hosts thousands of motorsports enthusiasts each year and all of us at PMNA look forward to connecting with them,” Volker Holzmeyer, President and CEO of Porsche Motorsport North America, said. ‟Whether they are casual fans of motorsport or are searching for a path into professional racing, we are excited to introduce them all to the Porsche Motorsport Pyramid and the opportunities that it offers.”

K1 Speed said its arrive-and-drive model and monthly race series create an accessible starting point, with points earned locally and top finishers advancing to state and then national-level competition. ‟It’s an immense honor for K1 to partner with Porsche Motorsport North America to provide up-and-coming American racers with an extraordinary opportunity,” said David Danglard, CEO and Founder of K1 Speed and K1 Circuit. ‟We built K1 on the belief that future champions start here, and this partnership with Porsche creates a pathway to take them from our indoor tracks to the country’s greatest circuits.”

In honor of NASCAR legend Greg Biffle, who, along with his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder, died in a plane crash on December 18, KOHR Motorsports has announced that it will be paying tribute to the 55-year-old with a special livery at Daytona.

Biffle and his family died alongside fellow passengers Craig Wadsworth, and Dennis and Jack Dutton in the 19-time Cup Series race winner’s Cessna 550 Citation at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina.

Exactly who was flying the aircraft at the time, as three of those on board had licenses, was unclear as of a National Transportation Safety Board press conference on Friday.

NTSB Investigator-In-Charge Dan Baker explained that having taken off from Statesville at around 10:05 am, the plane took a left turn, flying for around five minutes before turning back toward its origin.

Spotted flying low, Baker said, “The initial point of impact was a runway light stanchion located about 1,800 feet from the runway threshold.

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“The airplane subsequently impacted trees, two other runway light stanchions, and the airport perimeter fence short of the runway threshold before coming to rest near the runway threshold. The airplane also came to rest oriented on an easterly heading.

“Post-impact fire consumed the majority of the fuselage and the inboard wing sections. All four corners of the airplane and flight control surfaces have been identified in the wreckage and the debris field. Both engines were present with the main wreckage.”

Brutal footage showing the plane landing at Statesville, leaving behind a trail of flames and dense black smoke, has since made its way onto social media.

The NASCAR community was quick to rally, honoring the memories of those lost in the tragic accident with the likes of Richard Petty, Denny Hamlin, and Kevin Harvick among those to share moving tributes.

KOHR is now doing its part to pay tribute to Biffle, sharing renderings of its special livery for an upcoming race, along with the caption, “In light of last week’s tragedy involving one of Nascar’s 75 Greatest Drivers and off track Humanitarian, Greg Biffle [including his family & friends].

“KOHR Motorsports will be running a tribute 2002 @nascar Busch Championship No.60 Ford livery on our IMPC No.60 @fordracing Mustang GT4 during the upcoming IMSA Roar Before The 24 and 4 Hour BMW M Endurance Michelin Pilot Challenge.

“The race begins 1:45PM ET on Friday, January 23rd at Daytona International Speedway ahead of 64th annual Rolex 24.”

The black, white, grey, and red sweeping design imitates that of Biffle’s title-winning Ford Taurus. That 2002 season saw Biffle win four races in the No. 60 Roush Racing Ford, finishing in the top five a further 16 times and the top 10 another five.

The following year, he took to the wheel of the No. 16 Roush Racing Ford in the Cup Series for what was his first full-time season in the series. He won one race in his rookie season, continuing to race full-time in the Cup Series through 2016.

Biffle briefly returned in 2022 to make four appearances in the No. 44 NY Racing Team Chevrolet, marking the final chapter in his NASCAR career.

As only a sixth-grader, Kroi Ryan has already made waves in Pahrump’s off-road racing scene, earning dual WORCS ATV championships in the 90cc class.

But while his trophies are impressive, it is his mindset and approach to life that set him apart.

As WORCS Racing joins forces with the American Motorcyclist Association to form the AMA 2026 West Regional Grand Prix, Kroi is gearing up for a full year of racing, mountain biking — and he’s eager to inspire other kids to face their fears and pursue their goals.

A new era for WORCS Racing and Kroi’s goals

Starting in 2026, WORCS will expand its schedule to 10 rounds across six states and merge with the AMA, introducing updated rules and age limits.

Kroi is excited to tackle at least four WORCS races next year, riding his APEX 90 ATV and Yamaha TTR 125 dirt bike.

He also plans to try some MRANN races, which are exclusive to dirt bikes, and is branching into mountain biking tournaments, as well as basketball, baseball, and soccer with Trojans basketball and AYSO 808 soccer.

“Even though we won’t be chasing a WORCS championship next year, our life will not be slowing down by any means. Nor will we be leaving the world of off-road racing,” Kroi’s mother Nicole said.

He’s also currently completing his hunter’s safety course, hoping to start hunting in 2026 — another challenge he’s excited to take on with the same mindset he applies to racing.

Fear, focus, and the joys of racing

For Kroi, racing isn’t just about speed or podiums — it’s about confronting fear and pushing personal limits.

“I am excited and afraid on the track. When I’m racing against someone as good or better than me, I feel a full-on ‘let’s do this’ competitive mindset. But when I’m done, I feel pride in myself for conquering my fears and finishing my goals. I love making it on the podium!”

He describes the thrill of racing as a pure rush of joy, whether going faster, jumping higher, or navigating tricky corners. At the same time, he’s aware of the risks: crashing, overshooting jumps, or hitting corners too hard. Safety gear helps, but it doesn’t eliminate the challenge — which is part of what makes the sport exciting for him.

“Fear is normal, just like failing. But if you let that stop you, that’s how you become a failure,” Kroi said. “Never let something control you. If you face your fears and your failures, you will always be in control.”

Inspiration beyond racing

Kroi knows his story inspires other kids with apraxia — he’s recognized in town and the racing community by strangers who read about his achievements in articles.

That directly motivates him to share his mindset and push others to overcome their own adversities.

“Life is hard. Something hard is a challenge. Overcoming a challenge is an adventure, with small achievements. Like a plaque on a WORCS podium,” Kroi says. “But the more achievements you make come true, the more you achieve your ultimate reward: your dreams.”

Kroi believes most in competing with yourself, improving every day, and celebrating personal victories.

His goal isn’t just to win races but to show that facing fear, staying persistent, and embracing challenges can lead to success in any part of life.

Contact Jacob Powers at jpowers@pvtimes.com. Follow @jaypowers__ on X.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Two action packed weeks of racing in The Sooner State kicks off with the 2026 Tulsa Shootout, which begins December 29 and concludes January 3 inside the SageNet Center. 

With a record-breaking number of entries (1,939 and counting), event officials recently released a tentative daily schedule for the six days of racing in Tulsa. 

This year’s schedule has been adjusted to include a full day of practice on Monday, December 29 prior to the start of heat racing on Tuesday, December 30. Adjustments to the schedule have also allowed on-track action for the Junior Sprint division to be held earlier in the day. 

“Those poor kids last year, when we had a couple days run long, it was forcing parents to wake their kids up to race, and as a parent, that really bothered me and knew that was something we needed to fix, so with the way were able to move things, I feel like this will be better not just for those teams, but everyone as a whole,” stated Tulsa Expo Raceway Chief of Operations, Matt Ward.

The tentative daily schedule for this year’s Tulsa Shootout can be viewed below. All six days of the 2026 Tulsa Shootout will be streamed live on FloRacing. 

2026 Tulsa Shootout Daily Schedule

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27

Parking: 8:00am

Sign-in: 12:00pm – 7:00pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28

Parking: 8:00am

Sign-in: 12:00pm – 7:00pm

Tech for Restricted: 3:00pm

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Practice: 9:00am (One round per class)

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw

K&B Motorsports Restricted

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints

JST Motorsports A-Class

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing FuelTech Heats

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints FuelTech Heats

JST Motorsports A-Class FuelTech Heats

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw FuelTech Heats

K&B Motorsports Restricted FuelTech Heats

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw FuelTech Heats

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing E-Mains

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing D-Mains

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing C-Mains

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing Qualifiers

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints Qualifiers

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw Qualifiers

K&B Motorsports Restricted Qualifiers

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw Qualifiers

JST Motorsports A-Class Qualifiers

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw D-Mains

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw C-Mains

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw E-Mains

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw D-Mains

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw C-Mains

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints C-Mains

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints B-Mains

K&B Motorsports Restricted C-Mains

K&B Motorsports Restricted B-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class E-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class D-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class C-Mains

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Racer’s For Christ Service: 7:30am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing B-Mains

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw B-Mains

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw B-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class B-Mains

OPENING CEREMONIES, PARADE OF STATES

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing LCQ

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw LCQ

K&B Motorsports Restricted LCQ

JST Motorsports A-Class LCQ

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw LCQ

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing A-Feature

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints A-Feature

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw A-Feature

K&B Motorsports Restricted A-Feature

JST Motorsports A-Class A-Feature

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw A-Feature

**Schedule is subject to change without notice. Any updates will be posted to http://www.tulsashootout.com.

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the launch of the IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series, a new professional personal watercraft racing championship set to debut in 2026.

Featuring both stand up and runabout competition, the series is designed to usher in a new era of professional watercraft racing by delivering elevated competition, increased visibility, and meaningful opportunities for racers. 

The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series will be integrated into select IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series events, creating action packed race weekends and a premium on water experience for fans, racers, and partners alike. 

Backed by strong industry interest, experienced leadership, and a $250,000 prize pool, the series is being built with a racer first mindset and a long-term commitment to growth and sustainability. 

“Personal watercraft racing has reached a point where it is ready for something new,” said Thomas Covington, who oversees overall strategy and commercial operations for the series. “Racers are looking for a clear vision and a professional platform they can believe in. By aligning this series with major offshore events, increasing exposure, and putting real prize money on the line, we are creating a foundation that can elevate the sport and open the door for future expansion.” 

The series is being developed by a leadership team with deep roots in motorsports and firsthand experience in professional racing, operations, and athlete development. Legendary racer Dustin Farthing will serve as Managing Director, bringing credibility, insight, and a racer driven perspective to the championship. 

“This series is being built by racers, for racers,” said Farthing. “We are focused on raising the standard across the board, from competition format and event execution to prize money and visibility. This is about giving athletes a series they can be proud to compete in and helping push the sport forward.” 

IHRA leadership emphasized that this announcement marks the first step in a broader, long-term investment in professional watercraft racing. 

“IHRA has always been committed to growing motorsports and creating new opportunities for racers,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. “Personal watercraft racing has tremendous potential, and this series represents our commitment to investing in the sport, building a stronger platform, and delivering first class competition and fan experiences.” 

While specific event details will be announced in the future, planning and outreach efforts are already underway with racers, promoters, sponsors, and international partners. The IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series schedule will be announced in the very near future, with the Pro Watercraft Racing Series integrated into select offshore events as part of that rollout. The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series will also feature comprehensive live streaming and digital coverage to ensure global access for fans and stakeholders. 

The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series represents a significant step forward for professional personal watercraft racing and signals a clear vision for the future of the sport. 

FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The International Hot Rod Association has officially completed the acquisition of the historic motorsports facility formerly known as Memphis International Raceway and Memphis Motorsports Park.

The sale of the multi-purpose Millington, Tenn., facility closed on December 23.

Originally opened in the late 1980s, the facility has played a significant role in American motorsports history.

It has hosted major drag racing events and national touring series and was, at one point, sanctioned by IHRA, hosting IHRA-sanctioned drag racing events during that time. With the property now under IHRA ownership, the acquisition represents a full-circle moment that reconnects the track’s past with a renewed vision for its future.

The facility has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County. Under IHRA ownership, it will operate as a multi-use destination supporting drag racing, stock car competition, grassroots motorsports, and other large-scale events that engage the broader community and region.

“This investment honors the legacy of Memphis Motorsports Park while positioning it for a strong future. IHRA’s acquisition reflects confidence in our region and creates new opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and fan experiences.” said Mayor Paul Young, City of Memphis.

“As the Commissioner for District 1, I am thrilled about IHRA’s acquisition of Memphis Motorsports Park. This investment strengthens our local economy, puts world-class racing back on solid ground, and gives our families and young people a safe, exciting place to create memories for years to come. Having a national organization like IHRA committed to the long-term success of this historic facility is exactly the kind of partnership Shelby County needs.” said Amber Mills, Shelby County Commissioner, District 1, Shelby County Government.

“Memphis Motorsports Park has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County, and IHRA’s acquisition represents a positive step forward for the facility and the community. This investment supports the continued use of the track as a regional destination while creating opportunities for local businesses and future growth. The Millington Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with IHRA as this next chapter takes shape.” said Chris Thomas, Executive Director, Millington Area Chamber of Commerce.

“This is a special place in American motorsports,” said Darryl Cuttell, CEO of IHRA. “This facility has a deep history in drag racing and stock car competition, and our goal is to honor that legacy while building a strong, sustainable future. We are committed to bringing meaningful racing back to this property while expanding its role as a destination for a wide range of events that serve racers, fans, and the surrounding community.”

“This acquisition represents more than reopening a racetrack,” said Leah Martin, President of IHRA. “It is about restoring opportunity for racers, families, and the community. This facility aligns with IHRA’s racer-first vision and our commitment to grassroots motorsports, while also allowing the property to support diverse uses that strengthen its year-round impact.”

“Memphis Motorsports Park holds a special place in our hearts,” said Daniel Horton, Assistant Director of the IHRA Stock Car Series. “Bobby Hamilton won the 2004 Craftsman Truck Series race here in a truck built by Tim and with Danny as the crew chief. With the facility now under the IHRA umbrella, we can give grassroots racers a chance to compete where legendary drivers such as Kevin Harvick, Randy LaJoie, and the late Greg Biffle have won. We are extremely excited to bring stock car racing back to Memphis and continue the legacy of this iconic track.”

In the coming days, IHRA will begin facility improvements and operational preparations. Fans and community members are encouraged to follow IHRA across its social media platforms for updates and behind-the-scenes coverage as revitalization efforts get underway. Further announcements regarding schedules and programming will be released in the near future.