How to Get On the Media's Radar at the PRI Show

Submitted by ajh on Mon, 10/26/2026 - 11:52
Press Release sign


With hundreds of media members expected at the 2026 PRI Show, exhibitors have a major opportunity to put their latest products, announcements and company news in front of the journalists covering the racing industry. PRI offers several tools to help exhibitors make those stories stand out before and during the Show.

If you're making an announcement at the PRI Show, whether it's a new product, groundbreaking technology, partnership, expansion, acquisition or major company milestone, don't just share it––broadcast it.

Join the Official PRI Show Press Conference Schedule 

Exhibiting companies have the opportunity to host a 30-minute press conference in their booth as part of the official PRI Show Press Conference Schedule. This schedule is shared with attending media, helping journalists discover the biggest news and innovations taking place on the Show floor. 

Participating in the official press conference program can increase your visibility and create valuable opportunities to connect directly with industry media. 

To secure a spot in the Official PRI Show Press Conference Schedule, contact Marissa Guajardo at marissag@sema.org or 909-979-0782. 

Upload a Press Release 

Looking for even more exposure? Use the PRI Show Exhibitor Press Release Tool to build pre-Show buzz, reach attending media, and increase your chances of being featured in official PRI Show coverage. 

Post your Show-related press releases here. 

With this tool, exhibitors can highlight product launches, booth attractions, announcements, celebrity appearances, and more, helping journalists and attendees discover what your company has planned before and during the Show. 

For questions about the Exhibitor Press Release Tool or other PRI Show public relations resources, contact Juan Torres at juant@performanceracing.com.

October 2026

There's Still Time to Score a Great Deal on Your 2026 PRI Show Accommodations

Submitted by ajh on Mon, 10/26/2026 - 11:37
PRI Show hotels


The three biggest business days in motorsports are calling! The world's largest gathering of racing professionals will roar back to downtown Indianapolis from December 10-12, and accommodations for the highly anticipated 2026 PRI Show are still available through Visit Indy, the official housing provider for the PRI Show, but only for a limited time.

Booking through the official PRI hotel block will also unlock exclusive discounted rates, and offers a seamless, stress-free booking experience, guaranteed savings, convenient hotel locations and other added perks—all designed to make your trip easier and more affordable.

Secure your rate today and make the most of your PRI stay!

Book Here

BOOK HERE button for PRI Show hotels

 

Have Questions or Need Help?

Contact the Visit Indy Housing team:
📧 prihousing@visitindy.com
📞 317-262-8191 (M–F, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. EDT)
 

 

October 2026

There Are Less Than 50 Days to the PRI Show: Do You Have Your Badge?

Submitted by ajh on Mon, 10/26/2026 - 11:16
Hanging car at the PRI Show


Though the 2026 PRI Show, the premier trade event for the global motorsports industry taking place December 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, is just weeks away, registration is still open online. Register for the 2026 PRI Show.

 

Button to register.

 

Savings are available for PRI Showgoers who register now with a tiered pricing structure: $55 per qualified attendee badge now through December 9, and $65 during the Show dates. The PRI Show remains a trade-only event for qualified industry professionals, and new this year, Showgoers can register for the PRI Show without a PRI membership. 

Car on the PRI Show floor.


More than 1,000 exhibiting companies have already secured more than 370,000 net sq. ft. of exhibit space, creating a show floor packed with the latest racing technology, performance products, manufacturing equipment, simulation tools, trailers and business solutions. From grassroots racing to professional motorsports, the PRI Show remains the industry's most important marketplace for discovering new products, building relationships, and conducting business ahead of the racing season.

"The PRI Show is where the business of motorsports comes together," said PRI Managing Director Doug Bresnahan. "Every December, manufacturers, race teams, distributors, engine builders, fabricators, track operators, and industry leaders gather in one place to strengthen partnerships, discover new innovations, and create opportunities that move racing forward. We look forward to welcoming the industry back to Indianapolis."

The PRI Show continues to serve as a driving force behind an industry that generates more than $69.2 billion in annual economic activity, supports more than 318,000 American jobs, and produces more than $22.1 billion in wages and benefits, according to the PRI Motorsports Economic Impact Study. By bringing together every segment of the racing industry under one roof, the Show helps fuel innovation, investment, and long-term business growth.

New for 2026, the PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium will debut during the Show, bringing together race engineers, manufacturers, technical leaders, and university engineering programs for a full day of education and collaboration focused on advancing motorsports technology and performance.

The 2026 PRI Show will feature a wide range of experiences and activations, from networking opportunities such as the Grand Opening Breakfast and PRI Full Throttle Social to education programming, specialty exhibit areas, and product discovery destinations including T.O.P.S. HQ, the Trailer and Motorcoach Exhibits, PRI Paddock, Machinery Row, NextGen Connect, and more.

Cars and attendees on the PRI Show floor.


"The PRI Show continues to evolve alongside the racing industry," said PRI Show Director Karin Davidson. "Whether attendees are sourcing products, learning from industry experts, exploring new technologies, or connecting with business partners, the 2026 Show is designed to deliver meaningful value at every stage of their business."

Each year, the PRI Show welcomes attendees from all 50 states and around the world, including race teams, retailers, engine builders, manufacturers, fabricators, distributors, media, sanctioning bodies, and track operators. Early registration allows attendees to receive their credentials in advance beginning in October, helping them save time and get straight to business when they arrive in Indianapolis.

To register, book hotel accommodations, and learn more about the 2026 PRI Show, visit PRI2026.com/Attend.

For additional information or questions regarding registration, please contact PRI Show Manager Nicole Harless, at nicoleh@performanceracing.com. 

 

October 2026

Spears CARS Tour West Aligns with ASA, CRA Tours Under Single Sanction for 2027

Submitted by ajh on Fri, 10/23/2026 - 14:25


Spears CARS Tour West, co-owned by Kevin Harvick and Tim Huddleston, and Marty Melo's MDM Promotions announced a landmark alignment that will bring the American Speed Association (ASA), the Championship Racing Association (CRA) and CARS Tour West together under one sanctioning body.

Beginning in 2027, the unified organization will operate under the CARS Tour banner and feature seven series, including three formerly competing as the ASA and CRA, three currently functioning as the CARS Tour West and a new CARS Pro Tour South Series.

In addition to the strategic alignment, in which all three parties now share ownership, Harvick and Huddleston will join Melo as co-owners of Track TV, the exclusive live-streaming provider of ASA, CRA and the recently announced home of the Spears CARS Tour West beginning in 2027.

"This is a big day for short-track racing," said Melo, who will continue in his role as owner and managing member. "I've had the opportunity to watch what Kevin, Tim and their team have built with the West Coast series, and we share a very similar vision for the future of our sport. Bringing these series together gives us a tremendous opportunity to create something truly special."

Harvick and Huddleston bring extensive experience across motorsports business and competition, while Melo has built a strong and trusted reputation in marketing and operations. Together, the trio of owners will pursue sustained growth by providing greater stability and consistency for competitors, tracks, partners and fans across the country.

"We are trying to build something bigger than any one series," said Harvick. "We all have the same goals, and partnering with Marty allows us to make grassroots racing even stronger. Consistency is what the teams and drivers want to see. That will be a point of emphasis with our rules, procedures, purse structures and operations while continuing to build on what makes each region unique."

"Blending Marty's success with what we've accomplished on the West Coast creates a lot of excitement," Huddleston added. "We've seen firsthand the power of cooperation and partnership, and having Track TV as a centralized platform for all seven series is another major piece of the puzzle."

As part of the alignment, ASA and CRA will compete under rebranded series names but continue to race in their respective regions with CARS National Tour expanding its geographic footprint west in 2027. The list of series and rebrands are as follows:

  • CARS National Tour – formerly the ASA STARS National Tour
  • CARS Midwest Tour – formerly ASA Midwest Tour
  • CARS Pro Tour Midwest – formerly the CRA Pro Series
  • CARS Pro Tour South – new series with tentative details forthcoming
  • CARS Pro Tour Southwest
  • CARS Pro Tour Northwest
  • CARS Tour West Super Late Model


The new ownership structure is effective immediately, with the unified sanctioning body officially taking effect January 1, 2027. Additional details, including the 2027 schedules, Track TV coverage with new pricing and further organizational announcements, will be released in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit starsnationaltour.com.

October 2026

World Racing Group Acquires SLS Promotions

Submitted by ajh on Fri, 10/23/2026 - 11:52
World of Outlaws SLS Promotions


World Racing Group (WRG), the North American dirt track sanctioning body, has acquired independent race promotion company SLS Promotions, officials announced.

The acquisition unites WRG's sanctioning power and digital media infrastructure with SLS Promotions' decades of event management expertise, locking in a more seamless experience for drivers, tracks and race fans across the United States, the company said.

SLS Promotions specializes in promoting high-profile events for the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series. By bringing SLS fully under the World Racing Group umbrella, WRG secures long-term stability for crucial dates on the annual racing calendar while continuing to optimize event operations.

"SLS Promotions has built an incredible legacy of professionalism and dedication to dirt track racing," said Brian Carter, World Racing Group CEO. "For decades, their team has been instrumental in bringing the World of Outlaws to premier venues and passionate fan bases across the country. Integrating SLS into the World Racing Group family allows us to streamline operations, enhance event marketing and continue the growth of these marquee race nights."

The acquisition focuses on SLS Promotions' portfolio of event promotional agreements, track relationships and intellectual property. The transition will focus on the seamless transition of the 2027 scheduled events, according to the sanctioning body.

"We have worked hand-in-hand with World Racing Group for a generation to build the profile of Sprint Car racing," said Scott Boyd with SLS. "Joining forces with WRG permanently is the natural next step for our company. Their resources, sponsorship network, and industry-leading DIRTVision streaming platform will provide the events with the tools needed to thrive for decades to come."

For more information, visit worldofoutlaws.com.

 

Image courtesy of World Racing Group | Tyler Carr

INDYCAR Announces Full 2027 NTT INDYCAR SERIES Schedule

Submitted by ajh on Fri, 10/23/2026 - 11:13


INDYCAR has released the second half of its 2027 NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedule, rounding out a mix of fan-friendly and dynamic race weekends leading up to the climactic moment at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca when the 2027 INDYCAR SERIES champion hoists the Astor Challenge Cup.

The announcement also included the introduction of the inaugural INDYCAR Grand Prix of Barcelona at  Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, the series' first international event outside North America since 2013. (Read more below).

"The 2027 season will build off a record-shattering and landmark year for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES," Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles said. "The sport's growth has been immense, driving incredible viewership gains, reaching new fans in younger demos and attracting increased commercial interest from emerging and long-term partners. Our relationship with FOX Sports continues to set an industry standard, and this schedule will help us build on all of these gains and take things to the next level."

For the third consecutive season, all races will be broadcast on FOX in the United States, with three additional telecasts scheduled during the two days of qualifying for the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge and coverage of Miller Lite Carb Day at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is once again the only premier motorsports series in North America with all races broadcast on network television.

"One of the things that makes INDYCAR so special is that winning a championship requires drivers and teams to be competitive on every type of racetrack," INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles said. "From high-speed ovals to tight street circuits and challenging road courses, they face a different test almost every weekend. The 2027 schedule continues that tradition, featuring the 111th Running of the Indianapolis 500, alongside some of the most iconic racetracks in North America, and the historic addition of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. With 25 full-time entries battling for a championship and every race broadcast on FOX, our fans have an incredible season of racing to look forward to."

See the full, 17-race schedule below:

2027 INDYCAR Schedule


INDYCAR Adds International Event at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in 2027

INDYCAR Barcelona


INDYCAR is expanding its global footprint with a new international event at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain as part of the 2027 NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedule.

The inaugural INDYCAR Grand Prix of Barcelona is scheduled for Sunday, July 18, and will bring North America's premier open-wheel racing series to Spain for the first time, setting the stage for a spectacular homecoming for Barcelona native and five-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Alex Palou of Chip Ganassi Racing, series officials said.

The multiyear agreement with Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya marks the NTT INDYCAR SERIES' first race outside North America since 2013, when James Hinchcliffe won on the streets of São Paulo, Brazil. The event also signals a European return for the INDYCAR SERIES, which last competed on the continent in 2007 at the TT Circuit Assen in the Netherlands.

"This is a monumental day for our sport," Miles said. "We are pleased to be able to take our ultra-competitive brand of wheel-to-wheel racing to Europe and thrilled that we can showcase INDYCAR in Alex Palou's hometown. We have seen Alex's remarkable skill and talent for several years and know his fans in Spain have been clamoring to watch him race in person.

"We cannot wait to see the NTT INDYCAR SERIES compete at one of the world's most recognizable motorsports venues set against the backdrop of a very historic and breathtaking international destination like Barcelona."

Palou, a 29-year-old Spaniard, captured his fifth NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship in 2026, becoming just the second driver in series history to win four consecutive titles, joining Sebastien Bourdais (2004-07). With five championships in six years and 25 career victories, Palou is tied for 17th on the series' all-time wins list. Only A.J. Foyt (seven) and Scott Dixon (six) have won more INDYCAR SERIES championships.

"I'm so excited to be part of INDYCAR's first race in Barcelona," Palou said. "It is an amazing opportunity, and it means so much to me to have a race at home in Barcelona, it's hard to put into words. I know the fans are going to love it, and I think we are going to put on a great show. We're going to try hard with the team at Chip Ganassi Racing to bring home the trophy in July."

Located in Montmeló, just outside Barcelona, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been a fixture on the international motorsports stage since opening in 1991. The renowned road course has hosted some of the world's most prestigious racing championships, including FIA Formula One and MotoGP, and is recognized for its combination of high-speed corners, technical sections and demanding layout.

The addition of Barcelona marks another significant milestone for INDYCAR as the series continues to introduce its high-speed, ultra-competitive brand of racing to new audiences and build upon its growing momentum.

"The arrival of INDYCAR is a major milestone and an exciting challenge for the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya," Chairman of the Board of Fira de Barcelona and Fira Circuit Pau Relat said. "Bringing one of the most prestigious and spectacular championships in global motorsport to our venue strengthens our international positioning, connects us with new audiences and markets, and reinforces our strategy of diversifying the circuit's activity through world-class events. We are working with a long-term vision to make INDYCAR Grand Prix of Barcelona a benchmark event on the international racing calendar for years to come."

Phase Two of the 2027 NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedule, which will include a listing of all races in next year's championship, will be announced shortly. Tune-in times for next season's events will be announced at a later date.

For more information, visit indycar.com.

October 2026

TechForce Foundation Names Brandon Zollner as Chief Development Officer

Submitted by ajh on Thu, 10/22/2026 - 14:32
Zollner Tech Force


TechForce Foundation, a national nonprofit that helps guide students to and through technical education and into skilled technician careers, today announced Brandon Zollner as its new chief development officer.

Zollner joins TechForce from Western Governors University (WGU), where he served as executive director of development. He brings extensive experience building philanthropic and corporate partnerships at the intersection of education, workforce development and economic mobility.

"Brandon joins TechForce at an exciting point in our growth," said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. "Our work has grown beyond any single program. We are building an ecosystem that connects students, schools, industry and working technicians to help more people successfully navigate the path from career exploration through education and into the workforce. Brandon understands how philanthropy and industry partnership can accelerate that kind of systemic change, and we are thrilled to have him on our leadership team."

As chief development officer, Zollner will lead TechForce's development strategy, strengthening and expanding the partnerships and philanthropic investment that fuel the Foundation's work nationwide, the organization said.

Throughout his career, Zollner has focused on creating greater access to opportunity through education and partnership. Prior to joining TechForce, he spent more than five years at WGU and previously held leadership roles in advancement and corporate and foundation relations at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and Saint Louis University.

Zollner's appointment comes as TechForce continues to grow its national community and strengthen the connections among students, schools, working technicians and industry needed to build a stronger skilled workforce.

For more information, visit techforce.org.

October 2026

SBI Announces Passing of Co-Founder Christine Barggren

Submitted by laurap on Thu, 10/22/2026 - 12:23
SBI logo


S.B. International, Inc. (SBI) has announced the passing of Christine Barggren, who co-founded the company in 1982 with her late husband, E. Richard "Dick" Barggren.

After a long career with Gulf Oil, Barggren joined Dick to build SBI from the ground up. Following his death in 1996, she took the helm as CEO. Under her leadership, SBI grew into one of the premier global distributors of aftermarket cylinder head components.

Barggren led in an industry where few women held top seats, and she did so with determination and conviction. She kept building through every challenge. The company's success today rests on the foundation she laid.

"Christine and Dick built SBI on integrity, hard work and an unwavering commitment to our customers," said Ryan Hamilton, president and CEO of S.B. International. "We will continue to grow the company while holding to the standards they set from day one. That is how we will honor her legacy."

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to the ASPCA or the Nashville Humane Society.

PRI extends its condolences to the Barggren family and the SBI team. 

 

October 2026

Racing America To Launch the NA Formula Ladder in 2027

Submitted by laurap on Thu, 10/22/2026 - 00:38
NA Formula Ladder graphic


Racing America has announced the launch of the NA Formula Ladder, a three-step development system designed to take the next generation of racers from karting to the doorstep of professional motorsports.

One of North America's new premier development ladders for up-and-coming formula racers will go green at Road Atlanta in March 2027. It will comprise the NAJr Championship, NA4 Championship and NA3 Championship.

Sanctioned and operated by Racing America, the NA Formula Ladder is a new, independent driver development platform made up of three championships: NAJr, NA4 and NA3.

Featuring Ligier formula cars and Hankook tires, the NA Formula Ladder will provide a pathway for drivers to progress from karting to single-seater racing beginning at age 14. The three championships will compete in two groups, as NAJr and NA4 share the track utilizing the Ligier JS F4 and Ligier JS F422, respectively, while NA3 will feature the first-generation Ligier JS F3 and the newly released Ligier JS F326.

Hosting premiere event weekends, the NA Formula Ladder will partner with the Trans Am Series and NASCAR Canada, giving drivers the opportunity to compete alongside established professional series, while benefitting from larger audiences, expanded media coverage and increased exposure. 

With the lowest cost per mile in North America, the NA Formula Ladder provides great value for developing drivers as NA3 contests 23 rounds over eight weekends, NA4 completes 20 rounds over seven weekends, and NAJr offers drivers 14 rounds over five weekends. All NA Formula Ladder weekends will be streamed on the @RacingAmericaTV YouTube page.

More details are available on the Racing America announcement. Schedules below are subject to change.
 

2027 NA3 Championship Schedule (23 rounds):

March 18-21, 2027: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Braselton, Ga. (Rounds 1-3)
May 20-23, 2027: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Bowmanville, Ontario (Rounds 4-6)
June 10-13, 2027: IMS Road Course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis, Ind. (Rounds 7-9)
June 17-20, 2027: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Lexington, Ohio (Rounds 10-12)
July 8-11, 2027: Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wis. (Rounds 13-15)
August 6-8, 2027: Circuit Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada (Rounds 16-18)
August 20-22, 2027: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Bowmanville, Ontario (Rounds 19-21)
October 14-17, 2027: Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham, Ala. (Rounds 22-23)
 

2027 NA4 Championship Schedule (20 rounds):

March 18-21, 2027: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Braselton, Ga. (Rounds 1-3)
May 20-23, 2027: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Bowmanville, Ontario (Rounds 4-6)
June 17-20, 2027: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Lexington, Ohio (Rounds 7-9)
July 8-11, 2027: Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wis. (Rounds 10-12)
August 20-22, 2027: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Bowmanville, Ontario (Rounds 13-15)
September 30-October 3, 2027: VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, Va. (Rounds 16-18)
October 14-17, 2027: Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham, Ala. (Rounds 19-20)
 

2027 NAJr Championship Schedule (14 rounds):

March 18-21, 2027: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Braselton, Ga. (Rounds 1-3)
June 17-20, 2027: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Lexington, Ohio (Rounds 4-6)
July 8-11, 2027: Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wis. (Rounds 7-9)
September 30-October 3, 2027: VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, Va. (Rounds 10-12)
October 14-17, 2027: Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham, Ala. (Rounds 13-14)


Image courtesy of Racing America

 

October 2026

FIA Opens Remote Operations Center to Support F1 Race Management

Submitted by laurap on Tue, 10/20/2026 - 18:35
FIA Operations Center


The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsports and federation for mobility organizations worldwide, has officially opened its new Remote Operations Center (ROC) at Biggin Hill in the United Kingdom, marking a multimillion-pound investment in the technology, infrastructure and personnel supporting the FIA Formula One World Championship.

The new center is the result of close collaboration between the FIA and Formula 1. As the sport continues to grow globally, the facility is designed to maintain high standards of race management while supporting the fairness, safety and integrity of competition.

Located within Formula 1's Biggin Hill campus, the center provides around-the-clock support to FIA Race Control and stewards during Grand Prix weekends for Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3. It is also intended to help develop the next generation of FIA officials through the organization's High Performance Programme (HPP).

The ROC is one of four pillars of FIA Race Operations, working alongside Race Control, Systems Operations and the stewards to strengthen race management and decision-making.

During Grand Prix weekends, ROC analysts process live data from more than 140 audio and video feeds, car-positioning telemetry and team radio communications. The center supports Race Control by identifying and assessing potential violations, including jump starts, incorrect grid positioning, track limits violations, pit lane offenses and compliance with stop-and-go penalties.

Artificial intelligence-assisted shape recognition, computer vision and automated radio-message tagging help analysts flag potential incidents. The facility also supports post-event reviews to refine future regulations and train the next generation of Race Control operators.

The center has been fully operational since the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, providing improved connectivity with the circuit and expanded operational capabilities. Up to 16 staff members work at the facility during race weekends.

The investment also supports the FIA's High Performance Programme for Officials, which has provided stewards and race directors worldwide with personalized training and a pathway to FIA World Championship-level roles since 2023. Together, the ROC and HPP aim to build a stronger, more diverse pool of officials and strengthen the long-term effectiveness of race operations.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali attended the opening ceremony, alongside FIA single-seater and sporting directors, ROC leadership and operations team members.

Ben Sulayem said the center represents an important milestone in the championship's development and reflects the FIA's commitment to investing in the people, technology and infrastructure supporting race operations.

Domenicali said the facility will support the FIA's trackside activities across Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3, strengthening the operations essential to fair and consistent competition.

For more information, visit the FIA website.


Image courtesy of FIA

 

October 2026