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Judge orders NASCAR teams to turn over financial data to stock car series, limits details – ABC 6 News

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A federal judge on Wednesday ordered a dozen NASCAR teams to provide 11 years of financial data to the stock car series as part of an ongoing legal fight but sharply limited what they need to share. A day after hearing arguments from both sides, U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell of […]

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A federal judge on Wednesday ordered a dozen NASCAR teams to provide 11 years of financial data to the stock car series as part of an ongoing legal fight but sharply limited what they need to share.

A day after hearing arguments from both sides, U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell of the Western District of North Carolina said the information will “allow NASCAR to have much of the arguably relevant substance of the requested information, while protecting the legitimate interests” of the 12 teams. They had raised concerns that the private financial details could end up being made public and would hurt competitive balance.

Under the decision, the teams must provide top-line data — total revenue, total costs, and net profits and losses — dating to 2014. The teams and NASCAR were ordered to settle on an independent accounting firm to handle the details by Friday, with that work paid for by NASCAR.

Earlier this week, attorneys for 12 of the 15 overall race teams argued against disclosing their financial records to become part of NASCAR’s antitrust lawsuit. They are not parties in the ongoing suit filed by 23XI Racing, which is owned by the NBA Hall Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports, owned by entrepreneur Bob Jenkins.

23XI and Front Row are the only two organizations of the 15 that refused last September to sign take-it-or-leave offers on a new charter agreement. Charters are NASCAR’s version of a franchise model, with each charter guaranteeing entry to the lucrative Cup Series races and a stable revenue stream. Of the 13 teams that signed, only Kaulig Racing has submitted the financial documents NASCAR subpoenaed as part of discovery.

Teams have long argued that NASCAR is not financially viable and they need a greater revenue stream and a more permanent length on the charter agreements, which presently have expiration dates and can be revoked by NASCAR. Two years of negotiations ended last fall with 13 teams signing on and 23IX and FRM instead heading to court.

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AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.



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NASCAR’s first in-season tournament adds some drama to the Cup Series finish in Chicago

CHICAGO (AP) — NASCAR’s first in-season tournament hasn’t made much of an impression on its drivers so far. Ty Gibbs said Sunday he didn’t know who his second-round opponent was until after the Cup Series race. That might be about to change. Gibbs is one of eight drivers still in the mix for the $1 […]

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CHICAGO (AP) — NASCAR’s first in-season tournament hasn’t made much of an impression on its drivers so far. Ty Gibbs said Sunday he didn’t know who his second-round opponent was until after the Cup Series race.

That might be about to change.

Gibbs is one of eight drivers still in the mix for the $1 million prize that goes to the winner of the five-race, bracket-style competition. While Shane van Gisbergen was closing out his Cup victory in Chicago this weekend, some of the most compelling action on the downtown street course was at least connected to the inaugural In-Season Challenge.

Alex Bowman and Bubba Wallace raced each other hard in the final laps after they tangled in Chicago last year. Bowman got the better of the head-to-head matchup, finishing eighth and eliminating Wallace from the tournament.

John Hunter Nemechek was 15th, one spot better than his opponent, Chase Elliott. Gibbs had a strong day and finished second, good enough to beat AJ Allmendinger in sixth. Ty Dillon, Tyler Reddick, Ryan Preece, Zane Smith and Erik Jones also moved on.

The 14th-seeded Smith upset No. 3 seed Chris Buescher by finishing 14th. He is matched up with Gibbs for Sunday’s road race at Sonoma.

“I hate we had to knock another Ford out, but it’s super cool to advance,” Smith said.

With the in-season tournament — part of a new media rights deal that includes TNT — NASCAR is following in the footsteps of the NBA and soccer leagues around the world. After Sonoma this weekend, it concludes with races at Dover and Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Bowman said the tournament wasn’t on his mind as he battled with Wallace at the end in Chicago. Whatever the reason for the contact, their head-to-head matchup certainly added a bit of intrigue to the racing behind van Gisbergen’s victory.

With the money involved and the field trimmed to eight drivers, there could be more moments like the duel between Bowman and Wallace in the final weeks of the challenge.

“I wasn’t expecting that to happen or to get raced like that, but we did,” Bowman said. “We just have to move on from it and keep digging.”

It sure sounds as if Dillon is enjoying the competition. Dillon, the No. 32 seed, eliminated Brad Keselowski on Sunday after he upset top-seeded Denny Hamlin at Atlanta on June 28.

There was absolutely no drama in Dillon’s win after Keselowski was collected in an early crash that began with Carson Hocevar hitting the wall and spinning out between Turns 10 and 11. Hocevar was eliminated by Reddick.

“I’m just so proud of Kaulig Racing and our No. 10 team,” Dillon said. “I knew in a basketball city, going up against Brad in a game of knockout, I was going to have a good chance.”

Dillon takes on Bowman and Preece faces Reddick in the next round. But the most interesting contest just might be Nemechek versus Jones in a matchup of Legacy Motor Club teammates.

“I felt like if we could have gotten through the first round, these next two rounds are really good for us,” Preece said. “Our road course program is pretty strong, and we keep making it better. So going into Sonoma, I think we’re up against Tyler Reddick, so he’s really good at road courses as well, but I like being the underdog.”



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Hertz to Sponsor John Hunter Nemechek and the No. 42 LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Toyota at Dover

STATESVILLE, N.C. (July 8, 2025)  –  LEGACY MOTOR CLUB announced today that Hertz, one of the world’s largest mobility solutions providers, will serve as the primary sponsor of John Hunter Nemechek’s No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover Motor Speedway on July 20. The announcement marks another chapter in the evolving partnership between LEGACY […]

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STATESVILLE, N.C. (July 8, 2025)  –  LEGACY MOTOR CLUB announced today that Hertz, one of the world’s largest mobility solutions providers, will serve as the primary sponsor of John Hunter Nemechek’s No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover Motor Speedway on July 20. The announcement marks another chapter in the evolving partnership between LEGACY MOTOR CLUB and team co-owner Knighthead Capital Management, LLC, on behalf of its investors, which also co-owns Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA racing team in the FIA World Endurance Championship (“WEC”). 

The iconic black-and-gold Hertz livery will make its NASCAR return on the high-banked concrete mile at Dover—known as the “Monster Mile”— bringing international motorsports synergy under the Knighthead umbrella. Hertz Car Sales – which offers thousands of well-maintained, high-quality used vehicles online and in person at more than 40 locations nationwide – also will be featured prominently on the racecar.   

“We’re excited to see Hertz and Hertz Car Sales on the No. 42 this summer at Dover,” said John Hunter Nemechek, driver of the LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Toyota. “It’s awesome to represent such a recognizable global brand, and even more special knowing it ties into the broader Knighthead motorsport vision that spans NASCAR and endurance racing.” 

Hertz’s entry into the NASCAR Cup Series complements its sponsorship of Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA’s No. 12 and No. 38 Cadillacs in the WEC. This cross-series sponsorship strategy, backed by Knighthead, exemplifies a global approach to brand visibility and performance alignment across premier racing platforms. 

“Hertz has a proud legacy in motorsports and we’re excited to expand our presence by partnering with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB and John Hunter Nemechek for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover,” said Gil West, Hertz Chief Executive Officer. “This collaboration not only highlights our iconic brand on one of racing’s biggest stages, but also showcases Hertz Car Sales as a trusted source of high-quality used vehicles. It’s an exciting opportunity to connect with fans and customers through the thrill of racing.” 

Fans will get their first look at the Hertz-branded No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE during practice and qualifying at Dover on July 19, with race coverage airing nationally on TNT Sports.

About Hertz 
Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. is one of the world’s leading car rental and mobility solutions providers. Its subsidiaries, including The Hertz Corporation, and licensees operate the Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, and Firefly vehicle rental brands, with more than 11,000 rental locations in 160 countries around the globe. The Company also operates the Hertz Car Sales brand, which offers a range of quality, competitively priced used cars for sale online and at locations across the United States, and the Hertz 24/7 car-sharing business in Europe. For more information about Hertz, visit www.hertz.com. 

About Knighthead Capital Management LLC 
Knighthead Capital Management, LLC was co-founded in 2008 by Tom Wagner  and  Ara Cohen and has grown to become a diversified asset management platform with an experienced team of investment professionals, specializing in fundamental analysis, operational and financial turnarounds and risk management. Knighthead’s long-term objective is to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for its clients while emphasizing the preservation of capital. Knighthead manages assets across a variety of investment vehicles including insurance asset management, real estate lending, and closed and open-ended vehicles. 

About LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MC is a premier auto racing organization co-owned by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmie Johnson and Knighthead Capital Management, LLC. Drawing from a rich tradition of success, LEGACY MC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and setting new standards of excellence. The CLUB competes under the Toyota Gazoo Racing banner in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE piloted by Erik Jones and the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE driven by John Hunter Nemechek. Johnson also races on a limited basis in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. With NASCAR legend and Hall of Famer Richard Petty, “The King”, serving as CLUB Ambassador, LEGACY MC blends timeless racing traditions with a new forward-thinking vision. As an inclusive community for motorsport enthusiasts, LEGACY MC honors both its storied past and the promising future of its members, always striving for victory and championship glory at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition.

Source: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB



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This Bronco Raptor 7.3-liter Godzilla V8 Swap Is Factory Fresh

Ever since the new Ford Bronco debuted, the number one question from enthusiasts has been, “Where’s the V8?” While it seems Ford has no plans to build one, Juicy Motorsports has delivered an answer with a fully integrated 7.3-liter Godzilla V8 conversion for the Bronco Raptor. Bubba Bryan from Exodus 4×4 recently got a close […]

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Ever since the new Ford Bronco debuted, the number one question from enthusiasts has been, “Where’s the V8?” While it seems Ford has no plans to build one, Juicy Motorsports has delivered an answer with a fully integrated 7.3-liter Godzilla V8 conversion for the Bronco Raptor. Bubba Bryan from Exodus 4×4 recently got a close look at the impressive build by Juicy Motorsports.

Bubba Bryan of Exodus 4x4

A True OEM-Level Conversion

Bubba Bryan is quick to point out that this is more than just a simple engine swap. “I’m calling a conversion,” he said, “because we’re not just putting a different engine in there and firing it up and driving it and having a bunch of lights on the dash.”

He was impressed that the finished truck retains all of its factory functionality. As he explained, “The best part is everything works! The GOAT modes work, the sway bar works, no lights on the dash.” When he got behind the wheel, he noted that the truck “just fires right up, no stall, no sputtering.”

Why the Godzilla V8?

The choice to use the 7.3-liter Godzilla pushrod V8 over the more complex 5.0-liter Coyote was a deliberate one. Justin Stamper, the builder from Juicy Motorsports, explained that the Godzilla is a simple, reliable workhorse engine with great low-end torque perfect for a heavy off-road truck.

Ford Bronco Raptor V8 Engine Swap

The pushrod design also makes it physically smaller than the DOHC Coyote. Bubba agreed, noting that the big V8 “fits in here better than the V6 does. In my opinion, you don’t have all the charge pipes and all that stuff floating around in here.”

How It’s Done

The key to the conversion’s success is its deep integration with Ford’s own electronics. The system uses a Ford PCM and a modified Ford wiring harness with “no intermediator modules or anything between the PCM and the rest of the wiring harness,” Bubba explained.

The stock 10R60 transmission is swapped for a stronger 10R80, and a small adapter plate is used to mate it to the Bronco’s stock transfer case. Aside from that, only a handful of custom parts like engine mounts and AC hoses are needed.

All About the V8

At the end of the day, this build answers the question that so many Bronco fans have been asking. It proves that a V8 not only fits, but can work with all of the vehicle’s advanced technology.

Hearing that big pushrod V8 rumble where a twin-turbo V6 used to be is what makes this conversion so special for anyone who believes a truck like the Bronco deserves V8 power.





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Driver wants NASCAR to ban white flag?

A post going around social media claims Bubba Wallace, the only black driver in NASCAR’s top circuit, is calling for NASCAR to eliminate the white flag because it has racist overtones. This story is fiction. The website Snopes did some digging and found the rumor originated on a Facebook page called Elite Gridiron that produces […]

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A post going around social media claims Bubba Wallace, the only black driver in NASCAR’s top circuit, is calling for NASCAR to eliminate the white flag because it has racist overtones.

This story is fiction.

The website Snopes did some digging and found the rumor originated on a Facebook page called Elite Gridiron that produces satirical content.

Wallace did call for NASCAR to ban the Confederate flag five years ago during the George Floyd protests, which it did.

But the white flag used in racing has no known racial overtones and none of the Confederacy’s three national flags was just plain white.





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With Chicago Behind Us, Here’s What’s Ahead in July NASCAR – Speedway Digest

The Chicago Street Race has set the tone for a thrilling summer stretch in the NASCAR Cup Series. On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 2:00 pm ET, the Grant Park 165 delivered drama and skill on the 75-lap downtown circuit, with Shane van Gisbergen taking first place, followed by Ty Gibbs and Tyler Reddick. With that […]

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The Chicago Street Race has set the tone for a thrilling summer stretch in the NASCAR Cup Series. On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 2:00 pm ET, the Grant Park 165 delivered drama and skill on the 75-lap downtown circuit, with Shane van Gisbergen taking first place, followed by Ty Gibbs and Tyler Reddick. With that unpredictable contest behind us, July rolls out a trio of vastly different challenges: the technical twists of Sonoma, the concrete one-mile test at Dover, and the crown‑jewel clash at the Brickyard 400.

These races will shape playoff momentum, fuel strategy warfare, and spotlight both seasoned veterans and rising stars. Now that Chicago’s roar has faded, July demands precision, adaptability, and nerve. Let’s take a closer look at the road ahead and explore why each venue holds significance for both drivers and fans—while preserving the excitement that defines the core of the NASCAR calendar.

Sonoma Sets the Tone for the Month

The road course at Sonoma Raceway marks the start of the mid-July swing, with the Toyota / Save Mart 350 scheduled for Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 3:30 pm ET. This 110-lap test takes place in California’s wine country and often rewards experience and discipline under braking. Sonoma has always required a different mindset.

With minimal runoff, dynamic elevation changes, and a range of tire strategy options, the margin for error is razor-thin. Drivers who can manage wheel hop and maintain tire stability often find themselves in strong finishing positions. At the same time, crew chiefs must navigate tough decisions between preserving track position and opting for fresh tires—especially when stage cautions compress the field and shake up the race order.

This track has historically given road course aces a shot at top finishes, even in underfunded equipment. Michael McDowell, AJ Allmendinger, and even a returning Shane van Gisbergen, if entered, could upset the usual order. These drivers don’t necessarily need a win to cause disruption. Just running near the front shakes up playoff math. For full-timers on the playoff bubble, a surprise top-five here can be costly in the standings.

Dover’s Grind Tests Momentum

After Sonoma, the series heads east for the Autotrader EchoPark Automotive 400 at Dover Motor Speedway, set for Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 2:00 pm ET. This 400-lap race unfolds on the abrasive concrete of the one-mile “Monster Mile.” Dover often turns into a race of attrition.

Cars that come on late tend to be the most consistent. Drivers who overwork their tires in Stage 1 typically struggle down the stretch. While the track rewards aggression, it also punishes impatience with sudden tire falloff or wall contact.

Dover will also serve as a valuable measuring stick for Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford. With the playoffs approaching, teams are watching long-run handling and tire conservation. If a manufacturer can deliver sustained pace on green-flag runs at Dover, it’s a promising sign for future playoff stops like Bristol and Homestead—both of which reward similar discipline and control.

The Weekend Peak: Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis

The final July stop is the prestigious Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, set for Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 2:00 pm ET. The 160-lap contest caps the month and doubles as the championship round of NASCAR’s inaugural In‑Season Challenge, raising both stakes and fan interest.

The In-Season Challenge narrows from 32 drivers after Chicago, to 8 at Sonoma, 4 at Dover, and 2 finalists at Indianapolis. That added layer means strategy takes on a new dimension. A risky pit call or late tire change could determine who gets their face etched into the Brickyard’s lore—and who walks away empty-handed.

Young Drivers and Veterans Face Crucial Pressure

With just a handful of regular-season races left, July becomes a pivotal month for drivers still seeking a win or clinging to playoff hopes through consistency. Ty Gibbs continues to show speed and maturity but lacks that breakthrough moment. Tracks like Dover may suit his methodical style, while Sonoma gives him another chance to showcase growth on technical layouts.

On the veteran side, Brad Keselowski and Daniel Suárez remain winless and under increasing pressure. Chase Elliott, who recently ended a long drought with a win in Atlanta, enters July with renewed momentum. He could be a factor at Sonoma, though he hasn’t dominated road courses the way he once did. For fans looking to bet on NASCAR odds, these veterans offer a mix of name recognition and unpredictable value, especially when strategy and track familiarity start to shape results.

Broadcast Transitions and Viewer Experience

July’s races arrive with enhanced coverage and streaming options, keeping fans tuned in—on TV and online. The production style often resonates with long-time fans, especially during technical races where crew chief decisions matter as much as driver instincts. Expect greater attention to tire cycles, undercut attempts, and bracket positioning during the Brickyard 400 as well.

Meanwhile, NASCAR continues expanding its digital footprint. Streaming platforms like Peacock are central to viewership, with all July races available both live and on-demand. Post-race content, behind-the-scenes clips, and condensed replays are now driving major engagement across YouTube and social media. These platforms also serve fans who want to stay updated on the latest motorsport news, offering quick access to race highlights, driver interviews, and standings updates in real time.

A Month That Demands Total Versatility

There’s no single formula for success this month. The July schedule demands teams be fast, patient, creative, and composed—often in the same race. Sonoma emphasizes driver technique and pit lane calls. Dover stresses mechanical balance and rhythm. Indianapolis is all about execution under pressure.

July doesn’t just reveal contenders—it tests who’s ready to lead when the margin for error vanishes. It’s where consistency must meet execution, and where one race—just one—can reset the championship conversation entirely.

Disclaimer: All race entries, team lineups, standings, and betting odds referenced in this article reflect the most accurate information available at the time of writing. As the NASCAR season progresses through July, changes in driver participation, mechanical updates, and in-race developments may significantly impact projections, playoff standings, and betting lines. For the most up-to-date information, readers should consult official NASCAR sources and licensed sportsbooks before placing any wagers.



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What to Watch at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and How to Watch it

This weekend, the 11th Duke of Richmond opens his driveway to the world of motoring. Since it was founded in 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed has become one the greatest events on the car calendar and a chance for modern hypercars, track legends, and hero drivers past and present to, er, duke it out […]

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This weekend, the 11th Duke of Richmond opens his driveway to the world of motoring. Since it was founded in 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed has become one the greatest events on the car calendar and a chance for modern hypercars, track legends, and hero drivers past and present to, er, duke it out for the fastest time on the Goodwood Estate’s 1.16-mile hill climb.

The 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed looks set to be a scorcher, and not just because of a heatwave on the weather forecast—a host of new cars are making their dynamic debut, while race weapons and historics going back to the dawn of motoring will also take to the hill.

Here’s all you need to know about watching the action.

Road Cars

The Goodwood Festival of Speed has become the de facto British Motor Show, and that means it’s the first chance to see all manner of new machines in motion. Alpine’s hydrogen Alpenglow concept car could be the fastest zero emissions machine up the hill and, moving on in approximate alphabetical order, Automobili Mignatta will debut its Rina speedster, Aston Martin will bring the 726-hp DBX S, and the Valhalla, while BMW will send the new M2 CS and Concept Speedtop up the hill, along with showcasing the Vision Driving Experience. Eccentrica will have its Diablo restomod, Ferrari will bring along the 296 Speciale, Amalfi, and F80. Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.33 first appeared at the Goodwood Members’ Meeting earlier this year and its 11,000-rpm V-12 may well be the aural highlight of the Festival. Honda is showing up with its 0 Series EV, but more enticing to petrolheads will be the Civic Type R Ultimate and the new Prelude. Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 N will electrify the hill, and Land Rover’s Defender Trophy will provide the thunder. McLaren specialist Lanzante is launching its first all-new model, which will be a three-seater like the F1 and is dubbed the 95-59 in honor of the racing F1 which won Le Mans 30 years ago. McLaren itself, meanwhile, will be putting the W1 through its paces and Maserati has teased a special version of the MC20. Czech company Praga will wheel out is Bohema in a bid to add to its records (it just became the fastest ICE production car around the Top Gear track). Renault’s racy 5 Turbo 3E will also be one to watch, and Toyota’s GR division is promising a big reveal as well.

Race Cars

The theme for 2025’s Goodwood Festival of Speed is “The Winning Formula—Champions and Challengers.” That means race cars aplenty from the world’s of endurance racing, rallying, Can-Am, GT racing, Formula E and Grand Prix. The cars will be divided into four batches, with the first including the 1995 Le Mans-winning McLaren F1 GTR and the Mirage GR8 which won in 1975, along with a number of Audis that were also victorious. A highlight of batch two will be the cars of 1995 World Rally Champion Colin McRae, with his 555 Subaru Impreza, Mitsubishi Lancer and Peugeot 206 WRC. They won’t be as sideways as the drift cars of ‘Mad Mike’ Whiddett and Ryan Tuerck, however. Batch three is a celebration of 75 years of F1 and will see an incredible array of single-seaters, from the earliest Grand Prix Bugattis and Maseratis to innovative Lotus and McLaren machines and mavericks like Tyrrell, Shadow, Hesketh and Brawn. The final batch includes no less than 28 World Championship-winning Formula 1 cars racing up the Duke’s drive or on display.

Driving Gods

Behind the wheel over the weekend will be seven F1 World Champions: Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell, Mario Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi, Mika Hakkinen, Damon Hill, and Jacques Villeneuve. From the 2025 Grand Prix grid will be Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman from Haas, Gabriel Bortoletto from Sauber, and former F1 drivers Valtteri Bottas, Felipe Massa, David Coulthard, Jacky Ickx, Patrick Friesacher, Marc Gene, Ricardo Patrese, Stefan Johansson, Thierry Boutsen, Jonathan Palmer, Emanuele Pirro, Karl Wendlinger, Arturo Merzario, and Karun Chandhok. Endurance racing legend Derek Bell will also be on track, as will seven-time World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty.

The action kicks off at 9:10 British Summer Time (4:10 am Eastern) on Thursday July 10 and finishes at 5:35 (12:35). On Friday, Saturday and Sunday it’s an earlier start time of 8:30 (3:30 am). That means an early morning for the Yanks among us, but it’s well worth it. Visit the Goodwood website for the full timetable. Everything will be live-streamed on the Goodwood Road and Racing YouTube channel and there’ll also be regular highlights packages posted so you can’t use the time difference as an excuse for missing out. Stay tuned to these pages, too, for updates from the ground.



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