One of the most symbolic brands in the history of motorsports is making its long-awaited full-time return as Sunoco joins Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) in a multi-year agreement as the primary partner of the No. 8 Honda driven by Kyffin Simpson. 

It marks the first time since 1973 that Sunoco, the largest independent fuel distributor in the Americas, has been a full season primary partner in the IndyCar Series. Sunoco was the primary fuel supplier of North America’s premier open-wheel championship from 2010-18, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway from 2015-18.

“Sunoco has long been synonymous with performance and innovation, values that mirror the DNA of our team,” said CGR team owner Chip Ganassi. “To join forces with such an iconic brand and one with a storied legacy in IndyCar is truly special. This partnership reflects our shared drive to keep pushing boundaries, and we look forward to what we’ll accomplish together on and off the track.”

In joining CGR, Sunoco partners with a team that is coming off a stout 2025 season in which Alex Palou, Scott Dixon and Simpson combined for nine wins (including the Indianapolis 500), six poles and 17 podiums, along with the IndyCar title. 

The 21-year-old Simpson, who is fresh off a sophomore campaign that featured a first career podium (Toronto) along with three top fives, joins a short list of legendary names that have driven with the Sunoco colors. 

Roger Penske; Mark Donohue

Photo by: IndyCar Series

The legendary Mark Donohue first drove the No. 12 Sunoco Eagle in 1968 at Riverside, and together won a maiden Indy 500 four years later in 1972. The likes of Gary Bettenhausen, Tony Kanaan, NASCAR legend Bobby Allison and current IndyCar on FOX analyst Townsend Bell have also made appearances in Sunoco-backed entries.

“Starting my third year in IndyCar with Sunoco joining the No. 8 Honda is an incredible boost,” Simpson said. “We’ve made big strides on the track, and this partnership will only help us get better. I’m confident we can take another step forward and have even more success in 2026 and beyond.”

Kyffin Simpson, Chip Ganassi Racing livery

Photo by: Chip Ganassi Racing

Kyffin Simpson, Chip Ganassi Racing livery

Photo by: Chip Ganassi Racing

Kyffin Simpson, Chip Ganassi Racing livery

Photo by: Chip Ganassi Racing

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– The Motorsport.com Team

Spire Motorsports has officially locked down its competition lineup for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) campaigns, the team announced on Friday.

The organization’s lineup for the coming season doesn’t include any brand-new hires, but instead, features a shuffling of positions (and job titles) for several members of the Spire Motorsports family — many of which have been with the team for several years.

Matt McCall, a four-time race-winning crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series (with Kurt Busch and Brad Keselowski), has been promoted to the position of Competition Director within the organization’s framework at NASCAR’s top-level. McCall joined the organization at the start of this season as Director of Vehicle Performance.

Ryan Sparks, who spent the majority of last season serving in a dual role as Competition Director and crew chief of the No. 7 Chevrolet (which, at the time, was driven by Justin Haley) will get the opportunity to focus on being shot-caller of the No. 7 in 2026, driven by Daniel Suarez.

Both Travis Peterson (who joined Spire Motorsports with Michael McDowell in 2025) and Luke Lambert (who moved with Carson Hocevar from LEGACY MOTOR CLUB in 2024) will retain their positions as crew chief of the No. 71 and No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro, respectively.

In their first season together at Spire, McDowell and Peterson collected three top-fives and six top-10s, finishing 22nd in NASCAR Cup Series points, one spot in front of teammate Carson Hocevar, who with the help of Luke Lambert, collected two top-fives and nine top-10s.

Spire Motorsports has also made some slight changes to its NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series program’s competition lineup for the upcoming campaign.

Veteran NASCAR National Series crew chief and long-time Spire Motorsports employee Kevin “Bono” Manion has been promoted to Competition Director of the teams NASCAR Truck Series program in 2026, after spending last season as crew chief for Rajah Caruth and the No. 71 Chevrolet Silverado.

When it comes to the crew chief lineup, though, there aren’t any changes — with Brian Pattie continuing to serve as shot-caller for the No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST and Chad Walter continuing as crew chief for the No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST.

Spire Motorsports has yet to confirm its driver lineup for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series campaign. Additional details regarding that, and sponsorship for the program, will come at a later date.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The biggest lawsuit in NASCAR history is over.

But questions certainly remain on the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, how it went eight days into trial before settling Thursday afternoon and what impact it will have on the future.

Here are some thoughts:

Who won?

It’s pretty clear 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports were big winners. It appeared they were winning the trial and the only risk they had is, even if they did win, whether they would get their charters back while NASCAR appealed any decisions. So the settlement eliminates that risk. But from all indications, they received a significant financial award, in addition to the changes in the charter agreement that gives teams a guaranteed spot in every race and guarantees a fixed, base amount of revenue.

Did the non-suing teams win?

They got permanent charters as well as, from among those briefed on the changes, a portion of revenues from international media rights and new business from team intellectual property. And sources indicate they got back a “strike rule” with a five-strike rule over the six years left in this deal. Anytime NASCAR makes a change that could cost at least $500,000 per car and the teams don’t approve it, it’s a strike. If NASCAR gets five strikes, then the exclusivity clause in the charter agreement is nullified.

Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, departs the Charles R Jonas Federal Building on December 1, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

What is the framework of the evergreen charters?

The terms of the settlement haven’t been disclosed, but according to multiple people associated with the teams, it has created a collective bargaining type situation at the end of each charter agreement. The financials have to be approved by two-thirds of the teams to ratify a deal. If a team doesn’t want to sign it, the owner has time to sell the charter (likely a year). The same is true if a team doesn’t meet certain performance standards or the owner does something so egregious (such as violating gambling policy, getting in trouble with the law, etc.) that they become a prohibited person as an owner. But here’s the thing that NASCAR gets: NASCAR gets 10 percent of all charter sales instead of two percent. So over time, NASCAR recovers some of the revenue that it will distribute to teams based on the new terms.

So this lawsuit is over, right? 

The case is over. The parties will likely file a one-page stipulation of dismissal soon (it is due in 30 days).

What is the fallout of the Richard Childress testimony?

That is one of the biggest questions going forward. Childress has two potential legal issues he could pursue. The texts from NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps calling him an “idiot” and an “ass-clown” who should be “taken out back and flogged” likely aren’t the basis for a lawsuit, unless Childress can connect those feelings to any decisions pertaining to penalties and officiating. But the fact hat NASCAR attorneys appeared to have a pitch to investors from Bobby Hillin Jr. with some sensitive RCR Enterprises information possibly opens up Hillin to a violation of any non-disclosure agreements he signed when pursuing a purchase of a significant piece of the team.

NASCAR driver and 23XI team co-owner Denny Hamlin (L) and wife Jordan Fish depart the federal building after a long day at the beginning of the trial.

Did the Johnny Morris letter spark the settlement?

Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris released a statement Wednesday night critical of NASCAR leadership and urging them to settle the case. 

“We hope the France family and team owners will reflect carefully on the damage that’s being done to NASCAR in the ongoing dispute and dig deep and strive hard for compromise,” Morris said.

Morris, a long-time sponsor of RCR, also indicated that the texts show that Phelps (who called Childress in September to apologize) can’t preside over the sport.

“Many of our teammates have validly expressed concern that the commissioner’s recently revealed contempt for Richard Childress makes it abundantly clear that he and his lieutenants are not capable of being fair and objective when it comes to impartially enforcing the rules and regulations that govern the sport, including the objective assessment of fines and penalties,” Morris wrote.

But did that statement really spark the settlement? That’s hard to tell. It certainly didn’t help NASCAR, especially in the court of public opinion, on whether NASCAR has respect for its teams or if it handle things well when frustrated by its teams. And if someone under an NDA gave the info to NASCAR’s attorneys, that might be more of a legal problem for that individual, but it would be a black eye for NASCAR. 

So what might have caused the settlement?

It wasn’t looking good for NASCAR in the trial. Nearly all the NASCAR executives had testified and they came off defensive and evasive, and the documents indicated that they at least made decisions based on threats of rival series. Whether the acts themselves were or were not anticompetitive might not have been an issue, as much as the issue of jurors viewing the executives in a negative light. Additionally, if they are being evasive or having a lack of memory, then it could be reasoned they probably do have something to hide. 

There also was the fact that team owners Rick Hendrick and Roger Penske were supposed to testify for NASCAR in the case. But earlier in the trial, 23XI and FRM put letters from Hendrick and Penske in front of the jury, letters they wrote to NASCAR Chairman Jim France during the negotiations begging for permanent charters. For them to try to testify about the good things NASCAR does would have been overshadowed by 23XI and FRM attorneys asking about those letters. And France would have been opening the door for Hendrick and Penske to answer uncomfortable questions about their team finances, and for Penske, about INDYCAR and its operations.

Sometimes lawsuits settle after the plaintiffs rest their case, which 23XI and FRM did Wednesday. It appeared the writing was on the wall for NASCAR. And it was time to put the pen to paper.

Why didn’t it settle earlier?

That’s the million-dollar question. Actually, 10s or maybe hundreds of millions of dollars, when considering the legal costs of this trial. Judge Kenneth Bell said he wished they could have settled a couple of months ago, as the two sides nearly settled at the end of October. Maybe the check was just a little bit too big back then for NASCAR to write. NASCAR gave it its best shot by going to trial and seeing what 23XI and FRM presented. NASCAR could have lost and sent the case into 2026 with an appeal looming, but now everyone can move on.

But really, can they move on?

Maybe even a better question. Phelps and O’Donnell texting the word “redneck” in a negative tone in a sport that has plenty of fans who take pride in a lifestyle that some would term as redneck won’t just go away with a five-minute news conference on the courthouse steps. And whether Phelps can effectively lead after that scathing Childress text remains to be seen. Phelps has great respect for many in the garage for his leadership and ability to balance all the stakeholders. Only that respect could keep him in the role he has. 

Anything else to look for in lawsuit fallout?

The drivers haven’t yet been mentioned in this piece. It would be naive to think that, if the teams have more stability and more money, the drivers aren’t going to want a piece of that. 

Let the silly season begin.

Bob Pockrass covers NASCAR and INDYCAR for FOX Sports. He has spent decades covering motorsports, including over 30 Daytona 500s, with stints at ESPN, Sporting News, NASCAR Scene magazine and The (Daytona Beach) News-Journal. Follow him on Twitter @bobpockrass.

United Autosports will exit its Supercars joint venture to focus on its other commitments, including McLaren’s factory Hypercar programme in the World Endurance Championship from 2027.

As per the agreement, Walkinshaw Group and Andretti’s parent company TWG Global will consolidate their ownership and acquire United’s existing shareholding in the outfit.

The change will come into effect on 3 February and will see the team rebrand as Walkinshaw TWG Racing. 

With this announcement, Supercars becomes the second category United will leave in 2026, having also handed over the running of McLaren’s LMGT3 effort to Garage 59.

Most of the Anglo-American team’s resources next year will be directed towards the development of McLaren’s new LMDh prototype, which will debut in the WEC’s top category in 2027.

“It was an incredibly difficult decision to step away from Walkinshaw Andretti United, one that we didn’t take lightly. But with our WEC program and other racing  commitments growing rapidly, the time was right to put our complete focus and energy into that,” said United co-owner Zak Brown. 

“Personally, I have loved every moment with the entire team, with the drivers, and being involved in Supercars. To win the championship in our final event together seems like the perfect ending, but also, the Bathurst 10000 win is something that I will never forget.

“The sport itself is in great shape, it’s no-doubt one of the best racing categories in the world. I want to thank the team for not only welcoming us in 2018, but for all the hard work and dedication since.”

Ryan Walkinshaw from Walkinshaw Andretti United and Zak Brown

Photo by: Edge Photographics

Walkinshaw Andretti United was formed in 2018 when United Autosports and Andretti Autosport joined forces with Ryan Walkinshaw in the erstwhile factory Holden squad. Andretti and Walkinshaw each took a 37.5% stake in the rejigged organisation, with United acquiring the remaining 25%.

During its eight-year stint in Australia’s biggest championship, WAU achieved plenty of success against stern opposition from Dick Johnson Racing and Triple Eight Racing, scoring 17 victories in total – including at the Bathurst 1000 in 2021.

It added another milestone this year when Chaz Mostert snatched the drivers’ title from Triple Eight duo Will Brown and Broc Feeney under Supercars’ new Finals system in Adelaide.

Walkinshaw TWG stressed there will be no changes to its day-to-day operations and staffing levels following United’s departure.

The Melbourne-based squad will continue its preparations for 2026 as it leaves Ford’s stable to become Toyota’s homologation partner.

“United Autosports, and more specifically, Zak Brown and Richard Dean, have been nothing but fantastic to work with since 2018. While we are all sad to see them go, we completely respect their decision,” said Ryan Walkinshaw. 

“We’ve shared in some fantastic moments together, none bigger than the championship in Adelaide a few weeks ago, or winning Bathurst in 2021, and personally, I’ve really enjoyed working alongside them. It started as an idea to bring Andretti Autosport into the fold, and it wasn’t long before Zak was making sure he didn’t miss out!”

TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss added: “We’re thankful for everything United Autosports has contributed to this team since 2018 and for the success we shared along the way. Their role in building where we are  today will always be an important part of our story, and we thank the entire  organisation, as well as Zak and Richard.”

The 2026 Supercars season will begin at Sydney Motorsport Park on 20-22 February. Walkinshaw TWG will enter a pair of new Toyota GR Supra cars next year for newly-crowned champion Mostert and one-time race winner Ryan Wood. 

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– The Motorsport.com Team

The Bobby Rahal-led motorsport park in Florida called North Florida Motorsports Park (NFMP), a planned 600-acre premier automotive lifestyle destination in Nassau County, near the Georgia border and minutes from Amelia Island has been announced.

Announced on December 9, 2025, this groundbreaking project features a world-class private racetrack designed by Bobby Rahal himself (the 1986 Indianapolis 500 winner, three-time IndyCar champion, and International Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee), who serves as a key partner and leader in the vision. Additional amenities include:

– Luxury trackside condominiums
– Exclusive garage facilities
– A members-only club
– A public karting track
– On-site villas
– Sporting grounds

The development draws operational expertise from Atlanta Motorsports Park and aims to blend high-performance driving with refined community living for automotive enthusiasts.

A Vision Realized: The Birth of North Florida Motorsports Park

In the humid embrace of Nassau County’s untouched woodlands, just west of Interstate 95 and a stone’s throw from the Florida Welcome Center, a legend was quietly plotting his next victory lap. Bobby Rahal, the man who tamed the Brickyard in 1986 and built an empire on speed and precision, had long dreamed of creating something more than just a racetrack—a sanctuary where the roar of engines harmonized with the rhythm of life.

It started with a conversation. Partners from NF Sports Development and M2 Real Estate Advisors approached him, maps in hand, pointing to 600 acres of prime Florida land. “This region has an incredible automotive culture,” Bobby said, his eyes lighting up as he traced potential lines on the blueprint. “We’re not just building a track. We’re building a community.”

Drawing from decades at the pinnacle of motorsports—as a driver, team owner, and visionary—Rahal took the lead. He collaborated with world-leading architects to design a professional racing circuit that promised adrenaline-pumping challenges: sweeping curves, demanding elevations, and straights built for pure velocity. Safety and performance would be paramount, a testament to the lessons learned from Indy, Sebring, and beyond.

As news broke in December 2025, excitement rippled through the automotive world. Trackside condominiums rose in renderings, offering panoramic views of the action. Exclusive garages awaited priceless collections. A private membership club promised elite access, while a public karting facility invited families and newcomers to taste the thrill. Villas, sporting grounds, and even waterside amenities completed the vision—a lifestyle destination honoring the heritage of the motorcar.

Bobby stood on the site one crisp morning, wind whispering through the pines that would soon give way to asphalt. “This is for the enthusiasts,” he reflected. “The ones who live for that perfect apex, that symphony of horsepower. North Florida Motorsports Park isn’t the end of the road—it’s the starting grid for countless stories yet to be written.”

And as the first stakes were driven into the earth, the Sunshine State welcomed a new era of speed, luxury, and passion—one led by a true racing icon.

NHRA has welcomed Kuhnle Motorsports Park to the NHRA Member Track Network as part of the NHRA’s North Central Division (Division 3).

Originally opened in 1958, the historic quarter-mile facility has been a staple in Northeast Ohio motorsports for more than six decades. Known by many longtime racers as one of the region’s most tradition-rich dragstrips, Kuhnle Motorsports Park continues to evolve while staying true to its grassroots racing foundation.

The track was purchased in 2021 by brothers Tom and Kim Kuhnle. The Kuhnle family invested heavily in revitalizing the venue and expanding its offerings. Today, Kuhnle Motorsports Park hosts a wide variety of events, from nostalgia gasser races to the fan-favorite heavy-duty semi-truck racing, which has become one of the facility’s signature attractions.

“NHRA offers valuable benefits to racers as well as race programs that are exciting for both participants and spectators. This makes them a great fit for our commitment to our racing community and our vision for the future,” said Tom Kuhnle.

“When I got my driver’s license at 16, Thompson Drag Raceway, now Kuhnle Motorsports Park, was one of the first places I would go,” added Kim Kuhnle. “I loved to watch drag racing for hours with a big group of friends. Like so many others who have grown up in this area, a lot of my fondest memories were made at the track.

“Fast forward 40-plus years later, and the tables have turned. I am now an owner of Kuhnle Motorsports Park. There are many moving parts involved with hosting events, and it is my goal to continue creating a place for all to enjoy.”

As part of the NHRA Member Track Network, Kuhnle Motorsports Park will also have access to NHRA’s extensive and robust support programs, insurance benefits, and national marketing platforms. With this new partnership, the facility will play a key role in promoting grassroots NHRA Drag Racing and fostering a strong community of racers and fans in the area.

“The NHRA North Central Division is proud to work alongside Kuhnle Motorsports Park as they continue building on their impressive progress,” said William Tharp, NHRA North Central Division Director. “Under Tom Kuhnle’s leadership and with the strong support of his family and friends, the facility has made tremendous strides in a short time. Their vision and commitment to the sport are clear, and we look forward to seeing that dedication grow within the North Central Division. With opportunities that many tracks can only dream of, Kuhnle Motorsports Park is poised to capitalize in a big way.”

For more information on Kuhnle Motorsports Park, visit https://www.kuhnlemotorsports.com/.