Parella Motorsports, the owner and operator of the SpeedTour series of racing events, has acquired Racing America, the digital motorsports media platform offering live streaming, original content and year-round coverage of amateur and stock-car adjacent racing.

The acquisition unites the live-event operator with the digital content and distribution platform, which will operate under the Racing America brand. The combined company will be headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.

"This acquisition marks a defining moment in our evolution and the next chapter for grassroots racing in this country," said Lee Giannone, CEO of the newly formed Racing America. "By combining our national live-events platform with Racing America's digital capabilities, we're creating the foundation for the future of motorsports--one that connects fans and competitors year-round, expands global reach and positions Racing America as the definitive home for grassroots and professional racing alike."

Following the acquisition, the unified platform will feature:

• Nationwide live racing events
• Best-in-class streaming and digital production
• Original and documentary-style content
• A growing direct-to-consumer subscription offering
• Expanded engagement opportunities for fans, partners, and series competitors

For more information, visit racingamerica.com or speedtour.net.

The 2025 PRI Show, continuing now through Saturday, December 13, has brought the entire motorsports world together under one roof, offering a comprehensive look at the products, technology, talent and ideas driving every level of racing forward. Spread across more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space, the PRI Show offers something for every racing professional, whether it's cutting-edge parts and equipment to education, business resources, networking and live demonstrations.

SRO America returns to the 2025 PRI Show with an expanded SIM Racing Arena, putting the spotlight on the fast-growing world of sim racing and motorsports innovation. The event features daily invitational races with top esports competitors competing on professional-grade rigs, including Fanatec Clubsport GT cockpits, DD-Plus Direct Drive bases, Clubsport pedals and MSI 49-inch monitors powered by high-performance MSI gaming PCs. These setups provide the precision, realism and performance used by professional drivers worldwide. From technical showcases highlighting the latest advancements in sim equipment, to panel discussions with industry experts and drivers, the arena continues to serve as a hub for knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

Not yet registered for the PRI Show? There's still time to attend the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. Click here and pick up your badge on-site. 

Already signed up? Start planning all your show activities with the PRI Show Planner (best for desktop) or the PRI Show App (best for mobile). Maximize your time in Indianapolis with easy access to the floorplan, exhibitor lists, upcoming events, expert-led educational sessions, can't-miss autograph sessions and a lot more.

The 2025 PRI Show, continuing now through Saturday, December 13, has brought the entire motorsports world together under one roof, offering a comprehensive look at the products, technology, talent and ideas driving every level of racing forward. Spread across more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space, the PRI Show offers something for every racing professional, whether it's cutting-edge parts and equipment to education, business resources, networking and live demonstrations.

One can't-miss display, the Featured Products Showcase (FPS), is where buyers and media discover the latest products in racing and motorsports. The FPS is located at the ICC Capitol Connector, which is strategically positioned near the yellow hall, Georgia Street entrance and Capitol Cube hanging car.  A panel of top racing industry professionals, including track operators, sanctioning bodies’ representatives, social media influencers and media, will select the Product Winners. 

Not yet registered for the PRI Show? There's still time to attend the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. Click here and pick up your badge on-site. 

Already signed up? Start planning all your show activities with the PRI Show Planner (best for desktop) or the PRI Show App (best for mobile). Maximize your time in Indianapolis with easy access to the floorplan, exhibitor lists, upcoming events, expert-led educational sessions, can't-miss autograph sessions and a lot more.

The 2025 PRI Show, continuing now through Saturday, December 13, has brought the entire motorsports world together under one roof, offering a comprehensive look at the products, technology, talent and ideas driving every level of racing forward. Spread across more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space, the PRI Show offers something for every racing professional, whether it's cutting-edge parts and equipment to education, business resources, networking and live demonstrations.

New for 2025, the PRI Paddock is a new feture that will bring live interviews, iconic vehicles, driver appearances, fan interaction and more directly to the PRI Show floor. All weekend, you can join us in the PRI Paddock for can't-miss live interview sessions hosted by Ken Stout! He'll sit down with standout industry figures for an unscripted conversation full of insights and unexpected moments. It's interactive, it's unpredictable and you never know what wild stories might pop up.

Not yet registered for the PRI Show? There's still time to attend the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. Click here and pick up your badge on-site. 

Already signed up? Start planning all your show activities with the PRI Show Planner (best for desktop) or the PRI Show App (best for mobile). Maximize your time in Indianapolis with easy access to the floorplan, exhibitor lists, upcoming events, expert-led educational sessions, can't-miss autograph sessions and a lot more.

Cope Family Racing (CFR) has joined forces with Stanton Barrett Motorsports (SBM) to form SBM With CFR for the 2026 NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series season.

The team will transition to the No. 30 car (formerly CFR's No. 70) and will remain with Chevrolet. Drivers and sponsors will be announced at a later date.

Stanton Barrett, owner and driver of SBM, has a long history in NASCAR's top series and has been operating a driver development program, including WRL, Trans Am and HSR. SBM runs out of a Denver, North Carolina, location but Barrett has purchased a race shop in Mooresville for NASCAR operations.

"I am excited to have the opportunity to partner with CFR and continue the long history of SBM," Barrett said. "Derrike has been a staple in the racing industry and someone that I have great respect for. We collectively bring over 70 years as owners and drivers at the highest levels of NASCAR."

"Kevin Cope and I are excited about forming this alliance with SBM," Derrike Cope said. "We have made great strides in acquiring the necessary race cars to be ready for Daytona and the first part of the year, including being reunited with veteran crew chief George Church."

Cope Family Racing is a group of seasoned professionals with over 40 years at the highest levels of NASCAR. The ownership team, as of 2026, is comprised of Derrike and Elyshia Cope, and new partner Kevin Cope.

For more information, visit stantonbarrettmotorsports.com.

The 37th annual event brings together thousands of racing professionals, showcasing innovation and driving economic impact.

The 37th Annual Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show officially opens today in Indianapolis, kicking off with the Grand Opening Breakfast featuring welcome remarks from Indiana Governor Mike Braun and a conversation with motorsports legend Mario Andretti. 

Taking place December 11-13 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, the PRI Show is the largest trade show in Indiana and the premier destination for motorsports professionals worldwide. Produced by Performance Racing Industry, the event serves as the ultimate platform for innovation, networking, and business development across all forms of racing. 

Industry Support Stronger Than Ever 

The 2025 PRI Show is on track to be one of the largest in nearly two decades, with more than 1,060 exhibitors confirmed, including 161 first-time participants. This overwhelming response underscores the industry's deep commitment to PRI as the central hub for connecting, innovating and driving business forward. 

"The PRI Show reflects the strength and passion of the motorsports industry," said PRI President Michael Good. "Every year, we bring together the people, products and ideas that shape the future of racing. This year's event is bigger than ever, and we're proud to provide a platform where innovation and opportunity converge." 

A Major Economic Driver 

Motorsports is a major economic force in the United States, generating $69.2 billion in economic activity (and $2.75 billion in the State of Indiana), supporting 318,560 full-time jobs, and delivering $22.2 billion in wages and benefits, according to PRI’s Motorsports Economic Impact Study. The PRI Show amplifies this impact by serving as the global gathering point for the industry, where business deals are made, partnerships are formed, and innovation is showcased. 

According to Visit Indy, the PRI Show contributes tens of millions of dollars in economic impact as thousands of attendees and exhibitors fill every corner of the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. This convergence of industry leaders and innovators reinforces PRI's role in shaping the future of motorsports through stronger relationships with sanctioning bodies, expanded educational programs and a growing presence at race tracks nationwide. 

2025 Show Highlights 

Attendees will experience an immersive showcase of innovation and engagement, including: 

• PRI SIM Racing Arena – A dedicated space for sim racing technology and demonstrations. 
• Featured Products Showcase – Highlighting the newest and most popular motorsports products. 
• Hammertown @ PRI – A new off-road racing exhibit featuring championship-winning vehicles and leading brands. 
• Machinery Row – Live demonstrations of race machining equipment and technology. 
• Trailer & RV Exhibits – The latest in racing trailers and motorcoaches inside Lucas Oil Stadium. 
• PRI Hall of Fame Induction – the Class of 2025 was honored for their contributions to motorsports. 
• T.O.P.S. HQ presented by MyRacePass – A dedicated hub for track operators, promoters and sanctioning bodies featuring a full schedule of sessions focused on track operations, event promotion and industry collaboration. 

"Attendees will experience the most comprehensive showcase in motorsports, from cutting-edge products and live demonstrations to immersive activations like Hammertown and the PRI SIM Racing Arena," said PRI Show Director Karin Davidson. "This event is designed to spark connections, deliver hands-on learning and provide insights that help businesses and race teams thrive in the year ahead." 

Several key industry organizations will also host events during the Show, including Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA), Race Track Business Conference (RTBC), International Council of Motorsports Sciences (ICMS) and more, underscoring PRI's commitment to nurturing relationships across the motorsports ecosystem. 

Driving the Future of Motorsports 

The PRI Show continues to evolve with programs that reflect emerging trends, such as sim racing and workforce development initiatives. Through education tracks, networking events and competitions like the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow National Championship, PRI is connecting the next generation of talent with industry leaders to ensure a strong future for motorsports. 

Not yet registered for the PRI Show? There's still time to attend the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. Click here and pick up your badge on-site.  
Already signed up? Start planning all your show activities with the PRI Show Planner (best for desktop) or the PRI Show App (best for mobile). Maximize your time in Indianapolis with easy access to the floorplan, exhibitor lists, upcoming events, expert-led educational sessions, can't-miss autograph sessions and a lot more. 

Acceler8, an independent non-profit automotive education program founded by law enforcement veterans to help at-risk youth, is heading into 2026 with incredible momentum thanks in large part to funding from the California Community Reinvestment Grants (CalCRG) program, which will allow a significant expansion of its efforts to train and mentor at-risk youth.

The Acceler8 team was recognized by the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the funding has been put into immediate effect. With the new funding, the organization secured a permanent location in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles under the new 6th Street Bridge, and appointed Rodrigo Rivera as full-time head of education and chief instructor, who will be spearheading the new Acceler8 Automotive Education Program. 

Already underway are the 16-Week Basic Mechanic Classes. The new career-focused program has been designed for young adults aged 18 to 24 and is based on an ASE curriculum to train students for entry-level certification with the ability to connect graduates to industry career opportunities.

New for 2026 will be the introduction of the California Pre-Apprenticeship Program available through Acceler8 as part of a vocational training pathway designed to prepare individuals for the workplace. In particular, the program is aimed at candidates who are disadvantaged or low-skilled and is intended to help them enter and find success in California's Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs). 

The programs are formally registered with the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) and require a documented partnership with at least one DAS-approved apprenticeship sponsor. 

For more information, visit acceler8education.org.

After more than 20 years as Red Bull's motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko has decided to step down at the end of 2025. The 82-year-old was one of the key architects of Red Bull's era in Formula 1 and also head of the Red Bull Junior Program.

"I have been involved in motorsport for six decades now, and the past 20-plus years at Red Bull have been an extraordinary and extremely successful journey. It has been a wonderful time that I have been able to help shape and share with so many talented people," Marko said. "Everything we have built and achieved together fills me with pride. Narrowly missing out on the world championship this season has moved me deeply and made it clear to me that now is the right moment for me personally to end this very long, intense and successful chapter. I wish the entire team continued success and am convinced that they will be fighting for both world championship titles again next year."

"Over more than 20 years, Helmut has earned incomparable merits for our team and the entire Red Bull motorsport family. He played a decisive role in all key strategic decisions that made Red Bull Racing what it is today: a multiple world champion, an engine of innovation, and a cornerstone of international motorsport," said Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO Corporate Projects and Investments, Red Bull. "His instinct for exceptional talent not only shaped our junior program but also left a lasting impact on Formula 1 as a whole. Names like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen stand for the many drivers who were discovered, supported and guided to the very top under his leadership. His passion, his courage to make clear decisions and his ability to spot potential will remain unforgettable."

Marko played a role in Red Bull collecting six constructors' championships, eight drivers' championships and 132 wins during his 816 total races with the team.

For more information, visit redbullracing.com.

NHRA team owner and driver Antron Brown has appointed veteran partnership specialist Kevin Contardo to lead sponsor relations for his AB Motorsports (ABM) team for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

As director of business operations, Contardo will oversee ABM's existing partnership programs while pursuing new relationships with both endemic and non-endemic brands. He will also collaborate closely with ABM's hospitality, merchandising and machine-shop departments as he builds upon the strong foundation Brown has successfully established through his first four years of NHRA team ownership.

Contardo brings more than a decade of sponsorship development experience to AB Motorsports. His previous roles include serving as director of strategic partnerships for John Force Racing and JCM Racing.

He also held the position of director of global partnerships at Oak View Group, a global sports and live entertainment venue management company, and served as director of strategic partnerships for the Nashville Zoo. His in-depth partnership management experience, paired with his extensive motorsports background, makes him uniquely positioned him to support ABM's continued growth.

For more information, visit antronbrown.com.

The American Sprint Car Series (ASCS), part of the World Racing Group, is expanding its footprint with the addition of two more regional 360 Sprint Car series in 2026.

The ASCS Gunsmoke Region, featuring races around Western and Central Kansas, and the ASCS Midwest Region, covering multiple states in the Midwest, will be the new additions next year, joining the Frontier, Hurricane Area Super Sprints, Northern Plains, Western Plains and Sooner regions.

The ASCS Midwest Region, which originally operated from 2005 to 2014, will be revived under the direction of Chris Eccles. The Nebraska native served as series director of the Malvern Bank 360 Sprint Series from 2022 until its recent disbandment.

A slate of 10 to 12 races is currently planned for the Midwest Region's resurgence, as well as a year-end points fund. A full schedule, including standard purse details, will be announced in the coming weeks.

During Eccles' time helping to grow Sprint Car racing around America's Heartland, he's garnered a positive reputation among drivers and promoters for his dedication to the sport and said he is excited to bring his hard-working attributes to ASCS in 2026.

The Gunsmoke Region will be run under the direction of Dodge City Raceway Park promoter Kyler Fetters. The Kansas native has been an active promoter of ASCS events in the state for several years at Dodge City, in addition to his stint at WaKeeney Speedway from 2020 to 2022.

The Series currently has plans for a slate of approximately 10 races. A standard purse of $2,000-to-win and $400-to-start has been set, as well as a points fund totaling $7,500. A complete schedule of events will be unveiled at a later date.

Anyone with questions about the new regions can contact Chris Eccles at (443) 289-0225 and Kyler Fetters at (620) 393–5450.

For more information, visit ascsracing.com.