NASCAR has expanded its partnership with Next League, a technology services provider that architects and operates technologies for sports brands, after formally announcing a new, multi-year strategic partnership with Next League, which has worked with NASCAR since 2012.

The firm has worked with NASCAR on its digital strategy and technology platforms and will continue to assist the sanctioning body in utilizing emerging technologies and AI innovation to reshape the way the organization engages with fans.

"We're excited to build on our longtime relationship with Next League as we create new ways to engage fans and reach new audiences," said NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer Tim Clark. "This next phase positions us to lead in a fast-changing digital landscape, with Next League helping us develop the tools and insights to deepen those connections. Together, we're building a more dynamic, fan-first digital platform that's ready for the next generation of engagement."

"We have been fortunate to work with the NASCAR team for more than a decade and are thrilled to build upon our strong foundation with this expanded partnership," said Next League CEO David Nugent. "Together we will reimagine the digital fan experience through people, technology, and a relentless focus on innovation. Given our extensive expertise working across the sports ecosystem and an innate understanding of NASCAR and their fans, we know we are uniquely qualified to help them build new ways for fans to connect with the sport they love. We're thrilled to be shaping the next generation of fan engagement together."

For more information, visit nascar.com.

Penske Entertainment, parent company of INDYCAR and owner of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Gainbridge, an insurtech company, have announced an extension of the multiyear sponsorship agreement that makes the Indianapolis-area company the presenting sponsor of the Indianapolis 500.

“Partnering with the Indianapolis 500 is a natural fit for Gainbridge, reflecting our shared commitment to success, innovation and making every second count,” said Group 1001 President and CEO Dan Towriss. “The Indianapolis 500 holds special significance to Hoosiers and fans across the world. We’re excited for this next chapter in our partnership and honored to celebrate the skilled drivers and the dedicated fans.”

“Our partnership with Gainbridge aligns two brands with a shared passion for growth and world-class customer experience,” Penske Entertainment President and CEO Mark Miles said. “Renewing this relationship with a multiyear agreement showcases the strength and continued relevance of the Indy 500, an iconic event with the perfect entitlement partner to fuel a momentous future.”

The 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Visit ims.com for more information.

Formula E and the FIA have revealed the all-electric series' new GEN4 race car.

The fastest car in the Formula E Championship's history will debut during the 2026-27 Formula E season and will have 600kW—the equivalent of 815 hp—of power available, plus active all-wheel drive, active differential and more.

Key technical enhancements for the new GEN4 race car include:

• Design: The GEN4 features two distinct aerodynamic configurations: high downforce, optimized for qualifying, and low downforce designed specifically for race conditions.
• Performance and Technology Highlights: GEN4 delivers a dramatic boost in performance and technology with 450kW peak race power, 600kW ATTACK MODE for powerful overtakes, enhanced 700kW regenerative braking and race energy capacity up to 55kWh.
• Sustainability Innovations: The construction of the GEN4 features 100% recyclable materials (with at least 20% recycled content).

Porsche, Nissan, Stellantis, Jaguar and Lola have all registered as GEN4 manufacturers.

"The GEN4 is far more than a race car. It represents over a decade of progress, innovation and ambition in electric racing," said Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E. "Co-developed with the FIA, it stands as the most advanced, demanding and sustainable machine we've ever built, redefining what's possible in performance and environmental responsibility. With GEN4, Formula E strengthens its position as the world's most forward-thinking sport and a true racing pioneer."

For more information, visit fiaformulae.com.

The Skip Barber Racing School has revealed its 2026 calendar of events for racing school events at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.

The purpose-built Formula 1 track features 20 turns, dramatic elevation changes, technical corners and long straights, offering a combination of speed and precision, plus modern facilities, scenic views and more, making it one of the Virginia-based racing school's most popular tracks.

Skip Barber Racing School will host racing schools for multiple stints throughout the year, including one- to three-day racing and advanced racing schools, plus advanced coaching sessions and the Skip Barber Driving Academy. The racing school will be at COTA on the following dates:

• January 28-February 1
• April 13-15
• June 1-3
• November 23-25
   

To see the full calendar of 2026 events at COTA, click here.

NASCAR has announced that Gary Putnam has been named the new Series Director for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, becoming the fifth person to hold the position in the Tour's storied history. Putnam succeeds Jimmy Wilson, who has overseen the series since 2013. Earlier this year, Wilson accepted the role of Sr. Technical Director of NASCAR Regional.

Putnam joins an esteemed line of Series Directors that includes Jerry Cook (1985–1992), Ed Cox (1993–2007), Chad Little (2008–2012), and Jimmy Wilson (2013–2025). His appointment marks a new chapter for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour as it enters its 41st season in 2026.

"Few people embody the heart and grit of the Tour the way that Gary does," said Joey Dennewitz, Managing Director of NASCAR Regional. "He's lived it from every angle--as a fan, crew member, driver, and leader--and that perspective will drive the Tour to even greater heights. His vision and determination will ensure the future of Modified racing remains as fierce and proud as its past."

A Vernon, Connecticut native, Putnam's passion for motorsports began early. A graduate of Rockville High School, he was the first in his family to take an interest in racing. As a child, he spent weekends convincing his father to take him to Stafford Speedway, where he developed a lifelong love for the sport.

"This opportunity truly means a lot to me," said Gary Putnam, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series Director. "Growing up in Connecticut, the NASCAR Modifieds were everything, and I attended nearly every race I could. To now lead the series that inspired my passion for motorsports is an incredible honor. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is in a strong place, and my focus is on building upon that success—enhancing the experience for our competitors, officials, and fans while continuing to grow the series for the future."

Putnam's professional journey through NASCAR spans nearly four decades, covering almost any role in the garage. In the 1990s, he gained early experience working in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour alongside Charlie and Carl Pasteryak.

In 1996, Putnam relocated to North Carolina to pursue a full-time career in NASCAR, eventually joining Larry Hedrick Motorsports with driver Ricky Craven in the NASCAR Cup Series. He later worked on the cars for Bill Elliott Racing before moving to Petty Enterprises in 2002, where he served as crew chief on the No. 44 with driver Jerry Nadeau. In 2003, he also worked with drivers John Andretti, Christian Fittipaldi, and Jeff Green on the iconic No. 43 car.

Putnam went on to join Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007 and stayed at the company as it transitioned to Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, where he reached the pinnacle of his Cup career as car chief for the No. 1 team, winning the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400 and the fall Charlotte Motor Speedway race in 2010 with driver Jamie McMurray.

In addition to his leadership and technical expertise, Putnam is also the first person to be named the Series Director who has competed as a driver in the modern-era NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. Since his debut in 2014, he has made 34 starts, earning two top-10 finishes, with his most recent start coming in 2025 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He also competed in the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour (2010–2016), recording three top-five and 30 top-10 finishes in 63 starts.

Putnam will be suspending operations of his own NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour team effective immediately as he transitions fully into his new role as Series Director.

The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will kick off the 2026 season at New Smyrna Speedway on Saturday, Feb. 7, marking the fifth straight year fans can check out the high-powered Modifieds at the half-mile Florida oval just down the street from NASCAR headquarters.

For more information and schedules for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, visit NASCAR.com/Whelen-Modified-Tour.

(Left image, from left to right) Scott Bennetts, drag racer; Tierra Hubbard, SEMA/PRI senior manager of state government affairs; Michigan Rep. Brian BeGole; Woody Sloan, owner of Onondaga Dragway; and Tom Deery, PRI ambassador. (Right image) SEMA/PRI gave a presentation to 30-plus race tracks at the Michigan Speedway Promoters Association (MSPA) meeting in Michigan International Speedway.

SEMA and PRI are planting the seeds for a busy calendar year ahead protecting the racing community, starting in the key state of Michigan, to generate support for the ever-important "right to race" legislation. 

SEMA/PRI staff and advocates rallied support in Lansing in mid-October for legislation protecting race tracks from nuisance claims, similar to a recent SEMA/PRI-led effort in North Carolina. SEMA/PRI hosted meetings with lawmakers and later convened over 30 race tracks at the Michigan Speedway Promoters Association (MSPA) meeting at Michigan International Speedway as part of our ongoing "right to Race" campaign. 

Maximizing SEMA/PRI's Impact in Michigan

Over the course of three days, SEMA and PRI's Government Affairs team, joined by local race track owners and drivers, met with 14 lawmakers and their staff to build momentum behind proposed nuisance protection legislation. The goal: to safeguard race tracks that have operated lawfully for decades from legal challenges brought by surrounding developments. 

On the final day of the event, SEMA and PRI hosted a presentation for more than 30 race tracks across Michigan. The presentation outlined the legislation, explained its importance, and organized the next steps to strengthen the statewide coalition. The session included a presentation detailing the growing threat of nuisance claims and the urgent need for a unified advocacy effort. 

Effective Messaging to Protect Motorsports

(Left image, left to right) Scott Bennetts, drag racer; Woody Sloan, owner of Onondaga Dragway; Michigan Senator Jim Runestad; Tierra Hubbard, SEMA/PRI senior manager of state government affairs; Tom Deery, PRI ambassador. (Right image, left to right) Scott Bennetts, drag racer; Woody Sloan, owner of Onondaga Dragway; Michigan Rep. Amos O'Neal; Tierra Hubbard, SEMA/PRI senior manager of state government affairs; Tom Deery, PRI ambassador.

Lawmakers are expressing appreciation for this SEMA- and PRI-led outreach and have acknowledged the vital role race tracks play in Michigan's economy, culture and communities. 

Lawmakers are listening, race tracks and partners are mobilizing, and momentum is growing. This represents an opportunity to protect the future of racing in Michigan while preserving jobs, investment, tourism, and community tradition. 

SEMA and PRI remain committed to advancing similar legislation across the country to ensure that motorsports facilities, manufacturers, service providers, and related businesses are protected. By securing consistent legal safeguards nationwide, the industry can continue to thrive by preserving jobs, innovation, and the deep-rooted racing culture in Michigan and across America. 

Want to get involved? Help us keep Michigan's race tracks alive and thriving! Contact Tierra Hubbard, Senior Manager of State Government Affairs for SEMA and PRI, at tierrah@sema.org, to learn how you can support advocacy efforts in your state.

^{Feed image of Michigan International Speedway courtesy of Shutterstock.}

As recently announced, SRO America is returning to the 2025 PRI Show with an expanded SIM Racing Arena, located in Lucas Oil Stadium that will again put the spotlight on the ever-growing world of sim racing and motorsports innovation. 

The 2025 edition of the PRI SIM Racing Arena Powered by SRO will again deliver daily invitational races featuring top esports competitors and state-of-the-art hardware over the three full days of the PRI Show. 

"The PRI SIM Racing Arena powered by SRO has quickly become one of the most engaging and talked-about features on the PRI Show floor," said PRI President Michael Good. "It bridges the gap between virtual and real-world competition, and you can see firsthand how simulation technology is shaping the next generation of racers and engineers." 

Showgoers will get to see nonstop racing action, product demonstrations and live broadcasts, all while offering attendees a hands-on opportunity to experience the feel of professional-grade sim racing with numerous exhibitors on hand showing off the latest in sim racing products. 

With the PRI Show serving as a meeting place for every segment of the racing world, it provides SRO Motorsports with a perfect platform to show how sim racing is driving the entire industry forward.  

"The PRI Show brings the entire performance racing world under one roof; teams, manufacturers, suppliers, media and fans. It's an ideal environment for SRO to showcase how our platforms are driving the sport forward, from professional sportscar championships to digital racing initiatives like the Sim Racing Arena," said SRO Motorsports VP of Marketing and Business Development Robbie Montinola. "It also allows us to connect face-to-face with partners and competitors who share our goal of growing motorsports in an inclusive, sustainable way." 

In addition to headline races—which will be livestreamed on Twitch and the GTWorld YouTube channel—the PRI SIM Racing Arena powered by SRO will feature a robust lineup of educational programming and interactive sessions designed to explore how sim racing is continuing to reshape the motorsports industry. 
 

From technical showcases highlighting the latest advancements in sim hardware and software, to panel discussions with industry experts and drivers, the arena continues to serve as a hub for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. 

"The PRI Sim Racing Arena powered by SRO Motorsports is a great example of how SRO is evolving beyond traditional racing formats to reach a wider audience. Racing simulators breaks down barriers to entry—it allows fans, aspiring drivers and even our current competitors to engage with the sport in a hands-on, data-driven way," Montinola said. "For us, esport programs aren't just entertainment; they're tools to inspire participation, test skills and build a deeper connection with the racing community both online and at live events." 

PRI President Michael Good thanked SRO Motorsports for its continued involvement in this exclusive PRI Show feature.  

"SRO has been an incredible partner in helping us showcase how sim racing connects the traditional motorsports community with the digital racing world. Their experience and innovation elevate the arena every year, making it a true highlight of PRI," said Good.

See the SIM Racing Arena Powered by SRO on the PRI Show floorplan here. 

Registration for the SIM Racing Arena Powered by SRO is open to racers now through November 17.

For more information, visit gt-world-challenge-america.com.

The 2025 PRI Show, December 11-13, is less than a month away. Register by Thursday, November 20, to receive your badge in the mail and walk directly onto the show floor when you arrive in Indianapolis. Register here. Reminder: an active PRI Membership is required to register for the event.

Protect your shop and your business with RevPro's motorsports-specific insurance coverage. From property protection to general liability, RevPro understands the unique risks faced by racing businesses and delivers solutions built for the industry. Get started in the PRI Membership portal below.

Not yet a PRI member? There's a tier for you! Learn more at performanceracing.com/membership.

PRI is not affiliated with, nor does it sell or thoroughly evaluate the products, services, and companies listed. PRI provides this information to PRI members for their evaluation and consideration and does not endorse or sponsor any company, product, or service. PRI takes no responsibility for, and makes no representation, warranty, or assurance as to the accuracy, quality, reliability, or completeness of the products or services offered.

The motorsports industry is alive and well across the nation. See a roundup below of some of the racing events happening this weekend:

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series

Event: In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals
Location: In‑N‑Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip — Pomona, California
Date: November 14-16

USAC National Midget Series

Event: Hangtown 100
Location: Placerville Speedway — Placerville, California
Date: November 14-15

Motorsports industry veteran Scott Duncan recently joined Parella Motorsports Holdings (PMH) as chief partnerships officer, overseeing all business development and partnership efforts for SpeedTour. This growing racing property encompasses Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA), Trans Am presented by Pirelli, Prototype Sprint Series Association (PSSA), Formula Regional Americas Championship, F4 United States Championship, Ligier JS F4 Series (JSF4), and International GT (IGT).

With a 32-year history of working with teams, agencies, tracks, and sports properties, Duncan brings extensive experience across multiple series, including NASCAR, INDYCAR, IMSA, and Formula 1. His track record includes securing high-value partnerships and sponsorships.

Duncan began his motorsports journey with a connection to NASCAR royalty. He was just 15 years old when his father, Jim Duncan, accepted a role as executive vice president of sales and marketing at Charlotte Motor Speedway at the invitation of track president Howard "Humpy" Wheeler. The two were college roommates in the early 1960s.

The family relocated to North Carolina from Los Angeles, where Jim Duncan was head of Reynolds Metal Company's recycling division. The teenage Duncan worked his first race in 1987, selling tickets. Excited by the racing and the business, he told his father he wanted in and started on the ground, quite literally.

"I was doing maintenance tasks like cutting grass, painting, and moving equipment afternoons after school," he recalled for PRI. While studying at Western Carolina University, Duncan continued working at the track from May to October, eventually managing the Winner's Circle. Duncan also drove the Mello Yello show car for Coca-Cola, a track sponsor, at various races. After graduating in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration, he gained broad motorsports business experience with Champion Spark Plug and then Talladega Superspeedway.

In subsequent agency roles, Duncan developed multi-year, seven-figure sponsorships for major racing organizations. That included bringing General Mills and the Coca-Cola Racing Family into NASCAR. Later, for 13 years before joining PMH, he ran his own consulting firm, working with top-tier motorsports clients.

PRI: You've seen motorsports partnerships up close from an early age. Can you share how those have evolved since you started in this business?

Duncan: Today's motorsports entertainment environment is very cluttered, full of options. It's a real challenge for smaller groups to go up against Goliaths like F1 with billions of eyes, and NASCAR with hundreds of millions with its Fox Sports deal. NHRA has about 40 million fans. Those are huge numbers compared to us as a series.

PRI: What is the main challenge for smaller series?

Duncan: The smaller groups must be creative to offer strategic deliverables that will see an immediate ROI. That's what everybody wants today. Before they even sign, they want to see five deals in my hand, including business-to-business or business-to-consumer. They want measurable ROI against their key performance indicators [KPIs] and say, "I'm putting in $20, I want $100 back." It's a challenge, and it is a moving target daily.

PRI: What kind of media strategy are you implementing?

To read the full article, plus hundreds of other articles like it, for free, sign up for a digital subscription to PRI Magazine on Zinio here.    

Once you download the Zinio mobile app or are logged into Zinio on a desktop browser, you will gain immediate access to more than a year's worth of content, including "Newly Appointed: Parella Motorsports Holdings' Scott Duncan" here and additional coverage in the November 2025 issue here.