Hoosier Racing Tire revealed its class of 2026 Hoosier Heroes today at a special announcement during the PRI Show.

Launched in 2022, the Hoosier Hero program celebrates racers who live out Hoosier's spirit of passion, pride and success both on and off the track, company representatives said. This year's process kicked off with fans nominating more than 400 racers over the summer. From there, the field was narrowed to 25 finalists, who went through a combined fan, industry and media vote with more than 17,000 votes cast.

2026 Hoosier Heroes

• Victoria Beaner – Pro Jr. Dragster, Micro Sprint, Pro Late Model
• Emily Billings – INEX Bandolero
• Vito Cancilla – Pro Late Model, Super Late Model, CARS Tour
• Joey Coulter – SMART Modified Tour, WHELEN Modified Tour
• Callum and Ryan Crowe – Sidecar, Isle of Man TT
• Jimmy Dale – Drag Racing
• Morgan Grosz – WISSOTA Late Model
• Andy Jankowiak – ARCA, Modifieds
• Ryan Kisner – MWEDT/Pro, Pro-AM
• Chris Morris – IMCA Modified
• Mitch Thomas – UMP Modified, Late Model
• Westin Workman – GR Cup North America

"The Hoosier Hero program is our way of celebrating the people who make racing what it is," said Joerg Burfien, president and CEO, Hoosier Racing Tire. "The Class of 2026 reflects the heart of this community, its leaders, competitors, and mentors who have lifted the sport in meaningful ways. Their induction as Hoosier Heroes is not just a recognition of past success, but a tribute to the positive influence they've had on everyone around them."

In addition to honoring active racers through the annual Hoosier Hero class, Hoosier also names a Hoosier Hero Legend each year. Presented alongside the Hero program, this distinction recognizes an individual whose influence and achievements have left a lasting mark on motorsports.

Frank Kimmel was named the 2026 Hoosier Hero Legend, honoring his extraordinary contribution to motorsports. Kimmel is the winningest driver in ARCA history with 80 wins, 10 championship titles and more than 10,000 laps completed across 191 races. His remarkable consistency, skill and dedication to the sport have left an incredible mark on the racing community.

"Frank Kimmel has long embodied the spirit, excellence and integrity that define a Hoosier Hero," said Nic Moncher, head of marketing, Hoosier Tire. "His decades of achievement on and off the track have left an unmistakable mark on our sport and on the racing community. Being named a Hoosier Hero Legend in 2026 is not only a fitting honor, but a formal recognition of the standard he has set for competitors, teams and fans alike. Frank's legacy continues to influence every corner of the industry, and this distinction reflects the impact he's made throughout an extraordinary career."

The Hoosier Hero campaign will air on Racer+ as a 12-part series with each episode highlighting a different member of the 2026 class. Racer+ is a direct-to-consumer streaming app available on iOS, Android-connected devices, Roku, Amazon Fire TV and online at racerplus.com.

For more information, visit hoosiertire.com.

FloSports, the online streaming platform, has acquired the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series (LOLMDS) from Lucas Oil Products. 

The acquisition represents a strategic step for FloSports as it continues to invest in and operate key motorsports properties and high-value sports intellectual property, the company said.  The announcement was made by FloSports CEO and Co-Founder Mark Floreani and Lucas Oil CEO Morgan Lucas.

As part of the sale, Lucas Oil Products will enter into a multi-year exclusive title sponsorship agreement with FloSports for LOLMDS, maintaining a legacy of support for the championship and its community of fans, teams and drivers for years to come.

Lucas Oil, a world leader in automotive additives and lubricants, has operated the series since 2005. FloSports has operated as the exclusive media rights holder for the LOLMDS national tour since 2022. The new agreement creates additional opportunities to leverage FloSports’ marketing, content development, advertising sales, live event production and business operations driving greater exposure for the Series and setting the stage for sustained growth.

Series director Rick Schwallie and the full LOLMDS team will stay on with the series with longtime LOLMDS announcer James Essex continuing as the voice of the tour. He will be joined for select events in the FloRacing broadcast booth by Dustin Jarrett with Ben Shelton reporting from the pit area.

For more information, visit floracing.com.

NASCAR, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have reached a mutually agreed-upon resolution to the previously ongoing court case between the parties. The teams and sanctioning body issued a joint statement regarding the resolution:

NASCAR, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports are pleased to announce a mutually agreed-upon resolution that delivers long-term stability and creates the conditions for meaningful growth for all teams in a more competitive environment.

This resolution reflects our shared commitment to maintaining a fair and equitable framework for long-term participation in America's premier motorsport, one that supports teams, partners and stakeholders while ensuring fans enjoy uninterrupted access to the best racing in the world. The agreement allows all parties to move forward with a unified focus on advancing stock car racing and delivering exceptional competition for our fans.

With this matter now resolved, all parties look forward to working together, alongside all chartered race teams, to deliver world-class events, dynamic sponsorship and partner activation opportunities, and continued growth for generations to come.

As a condition of the settlement agreement, NASCAR will issue an amendment to existing charter holders detailing the updated terms for signature, which will include a form of "evergreen" charters, subject to mutual agreement. The financial terms of the settlement are confidential and will not be released.

What all parties have always agreed on is a deep love for the sport and a desire to see it fulfill its full potential. This is a landmark moment, one that ensures NASCAR's foundation is stronger, its future is brighter, and its possibilities are greater. We extend our sincere thanks to Judge Kenneth Bell and mediator Jeffrey Mishkin for their professionalism and guidance throughout this process and to their jury for their time.

For more information, visit nascar.com.

Randy's Transmission, the Utah-based manufacturer of performance transmissions, parts and torque converters, is now partially owned by Frank Kuperman Jr., owner of cooling system producer Fluidyne High Performance.

Additionally, the now-combined company has acquired a new, 40,000-sq.-ft. headquarters in West Valley City, Utah, to support Randy's transmission and torque converter manufacturing, and serve as the West Coast distribution hub for Fluidyne's cooling products.

Additionally, a second 20,000-sq.-ft. manufacturing and distribution facility has been secured in Charlotte, North Carolina, that is set to open on January 5, 2026. The Charlotte facility will support transmission and valve body production, expand fulfillment capabilities for both companies, increase national parts availability and support warranty and refresh programs for faster turnaround, the company said.

With both facilities working together, Randy's and Fluidyne will be able to provide two-day shipping coverage to most regions of the United States, the company said.

For more information, visit randys-transmissions.com.

PRI welcomed three new members into its Hall of Fame during the 2025 PRI Show Grand Opening Breakfast at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Now in its second year, the Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose careers, leadership and innovation have made a lasting impact on motorsports. Inductees are selected by an industry committee based on their achievements, years of involvement and integrity.

The PRI Hall of Fame was introduced in 2024 to celebrate individuals whose vision and contributions have shaped the motorsports industry. The inaugural class featured Ed "Isky" Iskenderian, widely regarded as the "Camfather" for his pioneering camshaft innovations, and Steve Lewis, founder of PRI and architect of the PRI Trade Show. Their influence established a tradition of honoring leaders whose work drives progress and inspires future generations.

"The PRI Hall of Fame is about celebrating the visionaries and pioneers whose passion and dedication have shaped the motorsports industry," said PRI President Michael Good. "After launching the Hall of Fame in 2024 and honoring our inaugural inductees, we are proud to recognize this year's class whose achievements and leadership continue to inspire future generations of racers, innovators, and industry professionals."

PRI Hall of Fame Class of 2025

Paul "Scooter" Brothers

Paul "Scooter" Brothers has been immersed in motorsports and automotive performance his entire life. From his early days at Racing Head Service to leadership roles at Competition Cams and COMP Performance Group, Brothers consistently drove innovation in engine technology and performance products. As SEMA chairman of the board, he was instrumental in its acquisition of PRI in 2012, helping to strengthen the racing and performance industry. Brothers was recognized as the 2002 SEMA Person of the Year and a 2005 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee. His contributions to the Society of Automotive Engineers, NHRA, NASCAR and the broader racing industry have left a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and industry advancement. He is also a partner in Driven Racing Oil, which provides specially blended racing and high-performance motor oils.

John Kilroy

John Kilroy dedicated more than two decades to growing PRI Magazine and the PRI Show, serving as editor for 22 years before becoming vice president and general manager. Known for his deep respect for the racing industry and commitment to editorial excellence, Kilroy brought integrity, insight and passion to every facet of his work. He played a pivotal role in shaping PRI's coverage and the annual trade show experience, fostering industry growth and celebrating innovation. Kilroy passed away in 2022, leaving a legacy of dedication, professionalism and passion for motorsports that continues to inspire the PRI community.

Chris Raschke

Chris Raschke's enthusiasm, energy and commitment to motorsports were evident in every endeavor he undertook. Serving as director of sales and marketing at Automotive Racing Products (ARP), Raschke represented the brand at countless racing events, trade shows and car shows. He also pursued land speed racing at the Bonneville Salt Flats, earning the prestigious Red Hat and Black Hat for record-setting achievements, including driving the Speed Demon streamliner to 459.734 mph. Tragically, Raschke was killed in a land speed attempt in August 2025. His welcoming smile, quick wit and larger-than-life personality inspired everyone he encountered. His passion for racing, both on and off the track, left an enduring impact on the motorsports community.

The United States Auto Club (USAC), the Speedway, Indiana-based sanctioning body, has announced the 2026 calendars for its Silver Crown Championship, Sprint National Championship and Midget National Championship.

The USAC Silver Crown series will consist of six dirt and six pavement events for its 56th season, ranging from half-mile to 1.25-mile tracks with various degrees of banking. Notably, Iowa Speedway, the Newton, Iowa, paved oval, returns to the schedule after an 11-year absence. The season opens on May 8-9, at the Kansas State Fairgrounds and will conclude on October 3 at Toledo Speedway with the Rollie Beale Classic.

The National Sprint series has a 55-race slate on tap for 2026, including a return of Paragon Speedway in Paragon, Indiana, and Lernerville Speedway in Pennsylvania. The season kicks off in February at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida, and concludes in October at Central Arizona Raceway in Casa Grande during the Western World Championships.

Additionally, the Midget series competitors will face a 29-race slate in 2026, including two new venues making their first-ever appearance on the calendar: Coles County Speedway and Jacksonville Speedway in Illinois. On-track action for the season starts at Kokomo Speedway in Indiana on April 24 and wraps up on November 28 at Ventura Raceway in California for the annual Turkey Night Grand Prix.

For more information, visit usacracing.com.

See the full schedules for each series below:

USAC Silver Crown Championship

USAC Sprint Car National Championship

USAC Midget National Championship

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment: Dana Garrett
 

IHRA and SPEED SPORT 1 have expanded their multi-year broadcast agreement to incorporate the new series IHRA has recently added to its portfolio.

SPEED SPORT 1 is the official television home for all IHRA racing series, including IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series drag racing, IHRA Stock Car Series, IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series, IHRA Outlaw Drag Boats and more. Each series will be broadcast via live, tape-delayed and prime-time productions.

"Expanding our partnership with SPEED SPORT 1 allows IHRA to deliver on our promise of building a truly multi-discipline motorsports platform that is racer-first, fan-focused and globally accessible. By keeping our broadcasts free and elevating production standards across every series, we're creating a powerful engine for growth for our athletes, our fans and our partners," said IHRA Owner Darryl Cuttell.

For more information, visit speedsport.com or ihra.com.

Michael Annett, a race-winning driver for the NASCAR Xfinity Series (to be known as the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series beginning in 2026), has passed away. He was 39.

Talent representation and brand marketing business RSMG announced the sad news on its social media page last week, stating, "We are sad to have lost a family member. Michael Annett will always be in our hearts. Our thoughts are with the Annett family at this time. Rest in peace, MA."

In addition, JR Motorsports, whose team Annett was on, stated, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Annett family with the passing of our friend Michael Annett. Michael was a key member of JRM from 2017 until he retired in 2021 and was an important part in turning us into the four-car organization we remain today."

No further details have been announced as of press time.

PRI sends its condolences to the Annett family.

Image courtesy of RSMG

The Super DIRTcar Series has unveiled its schedule for the 2026 season.

The "Beasts of the Northeast" return next season with a 33-race schedule, kicking off the season at Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida, in February and ending with the World of Outlaws World Finals at The Dirt Track at Charlotte in November. Along the way there are vital events to the Northeast, including SummerFAST in August, Super DIRT Week 54 in October and more.

"The addition of new tracks along with many of the traditional stops over the years makes for another exciting season," Super DIRTcar Series Director Dean Reynolds said. "We had our most competitive group of drivers to date and it looks like the fans will see the absolute best wheel a Big Block Modified again in 2026."

For more information, visit superdirtcarseries.com.

See the full 2026 Super DIRTcar Series schedule below:

ARCA, the Temperance, Michigan-based sanctioning body, has released the ARCA Menards Series East schedule for 2026.

The 2026 calendar features an eight-race slate, including a new event at Hickory Motor Speedway and a return to Toledo Speedway for the first time since 2020.

The East Series schedule will once again feature four standalone races and four combination races with the ARCA Menards Series. The season will open with a standalone race at Hickory on March 28 and will conclude with the traditional finale at Bristol Motor Speedway, a combination race with the ARCA Menards Series.

"The eight races that make up the ARCA Menards Series East schedule include tracks that will be very familiar to the series but will also see the addition of the first-ever ARCA race at Hickory Motor Speedway, and a return to Toledo Speedway for the first time since 2020," said ARCA President Ron Drager. "The race at Hickory, one of the most legendary and tradition-rich tracks in stock-car racing, already has a lot of energy and excitement around it, and we'll follow with a much-anticipated return to Rockingham Speedway for the second consecutive year the very next weekend. We look forward to another competitive season and the championship coming down to the final laps of the final race of the year at Bristol Motor Speedway in September."

For more information, visit arcaracing.com.

See the full 2026 ARCA Menards Series East schedule below: