Sadly, Steve Huff – trailblazing racer, custom bike builder, electric dragster innovator, and tireless cancer warrior – passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by teammates, friends and family, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

He was 58.

Born on October 16, 1966, on Whidbey Island, Washington, Steve’s life was defined by velocity, vision, and a heart as powerful as his engines. Originally born in Oak Harbor, WA he graduated from South Whidbey High School.

A professional racing career spanning more than 30 years, Steve set more than 20 national and world speed records. In 2020, he made global headlines as the designer, builder, and driver of the world’s first 200 mph electric dragster. He earned international exposure through the NHRA and established himself as a pioneer and innovator of the drag racing’s electric future.

Steve’s talents didn’t stop at the track. A master custom motorcycle builder, his bikes graced the covers of major magazines and turned heads across the country, each one a work of art infused with precision, attitude, and always speed. Steve was once named the “Best bike builder you’ve never heard of.”

In 2020, Steve was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic upper tract urothelial cancer – a challenge that he met with the same determination and grit he brought to all aspects of his life and racing career.

Despite the diagnosis, Steve called 2022 the best year of his life. That year, he achieved his first National Championship, the APBA National Hydroplane Championship, a dream realized on the water that brought him deep pride and joy.

In addition, Steve and the Huff Motorsports team (headquartered in SeaTac) made 4 NHRA Nationals events with the Electric Dragster, and appearances at Cancer Care facilities and childhood learning events across the nation.

In his words:

“In the years since my cancer diagnosis I finally became ‘the man I always wanted to be’ living with intention, surrounded by love, and giving back in every way I could.”

Steve’s greatest victories weren’t just in motorsports. Steve gave back to his community through outreach and mentorship of young people, especially those with alternate learning styles. Inspiring young minds to chase their own kind of greatness, embracing their unique Superpowers. He didn’t just break records—he broke molds, redefining what it means to live fully, and leave a legacy worth celebrating.

Steve was a long term resident of Des Moines, WA and the City of SeaTac where he worked on his racing teams and their vehicles for over 20 years. September 22nd was named officially Steve Huff Motorsports Day by the City of SeaTac mayor in 2020, in honor of setting the first ever 200 mph record in the electric dragster.

He is survived by a community of racers, builders, dreamers, and fighters who will carry his legacy forward on the road, on the water, and in the hearts he touched.

Celebration of Life Soon

Details for a celebration of life will be shared soon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the soon-to-be created Steve Huff Memorial Foundation to establish scholarships (please email pr@stevehuffmotorsports.com for more details).

More information soon.

Share Your Memories

Please also send your memories, stories, and photos to Facebook.com/LookingOverTheFence where we are collecting material for Steve’s biography or garageasylum@yahoo.com.

Previous Coverage

Read our previous coverage of the amazing Steve here.

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2025 NASCAR Charlotte Qualifying Order

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NASCAR is more than just roaring engines and checkered flags — it’s a multi-billion dollar powerhouse. But what exactly is NASCAR worth today? And how are betting and online casinos accelerating its growth in ways that go far beyond the racetrack? The evolution of online entertainment and its intersection with traditional sports have played a significant role in boosting NASCAR’s market.

NASCAR’s Current Market Value: More Than Just Racing

When asking, how much is NASCAR worth? Recent analyses place its valuation between $3 billion and $4 billion. As of 2023, NASCAR is valued at approximately $3.5 billion according to Forbes, with some estimates reaching up to $4 billion. This valuation reflects NASCAR’s diverse revenue streams, from ticket sales and sponsorships to new ventures in digital engagement and betting.

Traditional Revenue Streams Driving NASCAR’s Value

NASCAR’s core value lies in its diverse portfolio of income sources. From ticket sales and merchandise to broadcasting rights and sponsorship deals, NASCAR has built a financially robust ecosystem.

• Ticket Sales & Events: NASCAR attracts over 4 million fans annually at its races, generating significant gate revenue. While attendance can fluctuate from year to year, iconic events such as the Daytona 500 consistently fill stadiums, contributing massively to the sport’s financial success. These races don’t just fill seats; they also stimulate local economies by driving tourism and creating jobs in host cities.
• Merchandise & Licensing: In 2023, NASCAR earned approximately $400 million annually from licensed products, including apparel, collectibles, and memorabilia. This revenue stream reflects the deep cultural influence of NASCAR, with a loyal fanbase spanning multiple generations.
• Media & Broadcasting Rights: According to Forbes (2024), NASCAR’s media rights deals are worth more than $200 million annually. Despite a decline in traditional TV ratings, NASCAR still enjoys a solid broadcast presence on major networks. Additionally, the sport has expanded its footprint through digital streaming platforms, reaching more viewers through new media channels.
• Sponsorships: Corporate sponsorships have long been a crucial part of NASCAR’s financial structure. Major brands such as Goodyear, Xfinity, and Coca-Cola contribute hundreds of millions of dollars annually. In 2023, NASCAR’s total sponsorship revenue reached $425 million, with betting companies now making up an increasingly large portion of that income.
• Online Casinos & Betting: The online gambling market has become an essential and fast-growing sector for NASCAR, contributing around $100 million in 2023. Following the legalization of sports betting, NASCAR has capitalized on new opportunities by forming partnerships with online casinos and betting platforms. As this market continues to expand, NASCAR is positioned to benefit from the ongoing growth of digital betting.

An increasingly important segment of this ecosystem is the growing role of online casinos and sports betting, where fans can place bets on races. For those looking to dive into online gambling, taking advantage of promotions like the best $10 deposit bonus NZ is a great way to get started. These types of bonuses not only attract new users but also foster deeper engagement with the sport, benefiting NASCAR as it taps into the expanding online betting market.

How Betting and Online Casinos are  Fueling NASCAR’s Growth

The introduction of legalized sports betting in the U.S. has given NASCAR a fresh, lucrative source of revenue. Since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that repealed PASPA, sports betting has exploded across the country. The American Gaming Association reported that the total amount wagered on legal sports betting reached $8.6 billion in 2023, a 30% increase from the previous year.

NASCAR has capitalized on this boom by forming strategic partnerships with sportsbooks and online casinos. Here’s how it’s benefiting:

• Surge in Sponsorship Revenue: Betting giants like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars have inked lucrative sponsorship deals with NASCAR, now contributing around 15-20% of NASCAR’s total sponsorship income—a significant rise from just five years ago. These deals often include team sponsorships, race naming rights, and other cross-promotions.
• Expanded Fan Engagement: The new betting markets go far beyond predicting race winners. Fans can now place bets on lap leaders, fastest laps, driver matchups, and more. This increased engagement keeps viewers glued to the race, amplifying both live viewership and TV ratings.
  Appealing to Younger Audiences: The rise of digital betting apps has brought NASCAR into the hands of younger, tech-savvy fans. Apps like DraftKings and FanDuel not only allow fans to bet on race outcomes, but also offer virtual NASCAR games and in-app promotions. This is helping NASCAR reach demographics that might have otherwise been uninterested in motorsports. This shift is helping NASCAR connect with new demographics, much like how sports sponsorships, particularly in the realm of online gambling, are evolving across various sports. You can read more about this transformation and the role of casino sponsorships in reshaping sports in this detailed look at sports sponsorships.
• Year-Round Revenue Streams: Online casinos and virtual NASCAR-themed games help keep fans engaged even during the off-season. These games, which offer cash prizes and unique experiences, enhance NASCAR’s revenue potential year-round. Fans now have new ways to interact with the brand between races, ensuring sustained fan engagement.

NASCAR’s Strategic Adaptation to a Changing Market

NASCAR’s response to the changing landscape of sports betting and digital engagement is part of a broader trend in sports media. Historically, NASCAR’s growth was fueled by traditional broadcasting and event-based revenue. However, the integration of digital betting and gaming represents a strategic pivot that positions NASCAR for future growth.

A key partnership with nVenue, announced in 2023, is a prime example. The collaboration allows NASCAR to integrate in-race micro-betting markets and predictive content for fans, further deepening fan engagement. NASCAR highlighted how this move is crucial in keeping the sport relevant and financially competitive.

NASCAR’s future with a betting-based revolution and online casinos

As NASCAR’s fanbase continues to grow and evolve, the sport is perfectly positioned to capitalize on the ongoing digital betting revolution. The convergence of motorsports and sports betting is fundamentally changing how fans engage with races and drivers, transforming the fan experience into something far more interactive and exciting.

With the rise of legal sports betting and online casinos, NASCAR’s financial outlook looks brighter than ever. The integration of betting into the viewing experience allows fans to place real-time wagers, further deepening their connection to the races. According to NZCasinoHEX, the growing use of in-race betting is a key factor in keeping fans engaged and increasing NASCAR’s long-term profitability. This evolution not only enhances fan engagement but also creates new, lucrative revenue streams for the sport.

As digital betting platforms and online casinos continue to expand, NASCAR’s market value is expected to climb even higher, cementing its position as one of the most profitable and dynamic sports properties in the world. In the coming years, the synergy between NASCAR and the gambling industry will continue to fuel the sport’s growth, attracting new audiences and investors while reshaping the future of motorsports.

Columbus, Ohio (WSYX) — Brandon Chapman once had his sights set on the NFL, playing six years of college football at Wake Forest and attending both the NFL Combine and a minicamp. But when the pros didn’t call, Chapman didn’t quit—he pivoted.

Instead of the football field, Chapman now thrives on the racetrack as a member of the NASCAR pit crew for the No. 71 car driven by Michael McDowell.

Yes, NASCAR has its own version of combines and minicamps—and Chapman passed them both. He earned his spot as a fueler, a role that requires strength, precision, and quick reflexes.

“These cans are about 100 pounds,” Chapman said. “But, you know, it’s sloshing in there and your car goes long. You got to be able to adapt.”

Adaptability is something Chapman knows well. When his football dreams stalled, he found new momentum in motorsports. That pivot paid off in a big way this past weekend, when Chapman’s pit crew claimed first place in the NASCAR All-Star Pit Crew Competition.

It’s a long way from high school football at Grove City, and Chapman admits he didn’t start off as a car guy.

“I drove a two-door red Jeep all through high school that I neglected to get an oil change —because I didn’t understand that process—and I blew up my motor,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve learned from that.”

Now, he’s accelerating down a different path—and with plenty of gas left in the tank.

“It’s just like sports,” Chapman said. “You’ve got to just outperform, be the same person every day, and just show up.”

Trackside banners and car hood badges are no longer the only ways to promote a race. By fusing the sound of an engine with the buzz of a smartphone, sponsors now seek to connect with fans both on the racetrack and on their screens. Companies are using digital technologies, such as social media, live streams, mobile games, and apps, to provide a live racing digital experience that keeps spectators interested before, during, and after the checkered flag drops as they search for new ways to remain in touch.

Sponsors are changing the way motorsports fans engage with the sport through virtual events and mobile platforms. The boundaries between the real and virtual racing worlds are rapidly blurring, whether it is through esports competitions, AR-enhanced overlays, or real-time leaderboards.

From Trackside to Digital

Virtual Racing and eSports

Fan Apps and Digital Platforms

Social Media Integration

AR/VR Enhancements

Benefits for Fans and Sponsors

Conclusion

Charlotte Motor Speedway once again will be the NASCAR hub for the Cup, Xfinity and Truck series on one of the biggest motorsports weekends of the year.

The Memorial Day weekend extravaganza will begin with an ARCA-Truck doubleheader Friday night at the 1.5-mile oval. Tanner Gray (ARCA) and Nick Sanchez (Trucks) won the races last year.

Chase Elliott is the defending winner of Saturday’s 300-mile race in the Xfinity Series.

Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600, the longest race on the Cup Series schedule, was shortened to 374 miles last year because of rain with Christopher Bell taking the victory.

Cup drivers will compete in the longest race of the season Sunday night at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Coca-Cola 600 schedule at Charlotte Motor Speedway

(All Times Eastern)

Friday, May 23

Garage open

• 1 – 6 p.m. — Xfinity
• 10:30 a.m. – 11:55 p.m. — Truck Series
• 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. — ARCA

Track activity

• 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. — ARCA practice
• 2:30 – 2:50 p.m. — ARCA qualifying
• 3:35 – 4:30 p.m. — Truck Series practice (FS2)
• 4:40 – 5:30 p.m. — Truck Series qualifying (FS2)
• 6 p.m. — ARCA race (100 laps, 150 miles, FS1)
• 8:30 p.m. — Truck race (134 laps, 201 miles, Stage 1 at Lap 30, Stage 2 at Lap 60; FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Saturday, May 24

Garage open

• 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Cup
• 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. — Xfinity

Track activity

• 11 – 11:55 a.m. — Xfinity practice (CW App)
• 12:05 – 1 p.m. — Xfinity qualifying (CW App)
• 1:35 – 2:35 p.m. — Cup practice (Prime)
• 2:45 – 3:30 p.m. — Cup qualifying (Prime)
• 4:30 p.m. — Xfinity race (200 laps, 300 miles, Stage 1 at Lap 45, Stage 2 at Lap 90; CW, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Sunday, May 25

Garage open

• 3 p.m. – 11:55 p.m. — Cup

Track activity

• 6 p.m. — Cup race (400 laps, 600 miles, Stage 1 at Lap 1, Stage 2 at Lap 200, Stage 3 at Lap 300; Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Weekend weather

Friday: Partly cloudy with a high of 78 degrees and winds from west to northwest at 10 to 15 mph. It’s expected to be 76 degrees with a 0% chance of rain at the start of the ARCA race. It’s expected to be 73 degrees with a 0% chance of rain at the start of the Truck race.

Saturday: Intervals of clouds and sunshine with a high of 78 degrees and winds from the northwest at 5 to 10 mph. It’s expected to be 76 degrees with a 0% chance of rain at the start of the Xfinity race.

Sunday: Cloudy skies with a slight chance of a rain shower, a high of 78 degrees and winds light and variable. It’s expected to be 77 degrees with a 15% chance of rain at the start of the Cup race.