On Sunday, Trackhouse Racing will reach its 249th and 250th start with cars Nos. 1 and 99 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
This race marks the beginning of the final four races in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season.
For Trackhouse Racing drivers Daniel Suárez and Ross Chastain, their aim over these remaining races is to secure additional trophies, adding to the two they have already won this year, while also building momentum for the upcoming 2025 season.
The remaining tracks on the 2024 schedule include the 1.5-mile ovals of Las Vegas and Homestead-Miami in Florida, along with events at Martinsville and Phoenix.
WWEX Group: This will be Ross Chastain’s final outing of the season behind the wheel of the blue-and-black WWEX Group Chevrolet. His most recent performance in this livery was a 10th-place finish at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee last month. The Texas-based WWEX Group became a partner of Trackhouse Racing in 2022 and has adorned Chastain’s and teammate Daniel Suárez’s Chevrolets for several races each year.
Las Vegas Stats: Chastain will participate in his 13th Cup Series race at Las Vegas on Sunday. Since joining Trackhouse Racing in the No. 1 Chevrolet, he has consistently finished in the top-12, with four top-five results in just five races. Chastain has also led 153 laps at this mile-and-a-half speedway while driving the No. 1 car.
Las Vegas Success: Chastain boasts a victory in another national NASCAR series, having won in September 2018 while driving the No. 42 car in the Xfinity Series. He led 180 out of 200 laps to secure his first career win in that series. At the Nevada track, he has made eight starts in the Xfinity Series and seven in the Truck Series.
Most Wins for No. 1 Car in Cup Series: Since 2022, the No. 1 car has achieved victory lane five times with Chastain at the helm. This achievement marks the highest number of wins for a driver in the No. 1 car, surpassing Jamie McMurray, who previously held the record with four wins.
Season Stats: With only four races left in the season and one victory already, Chastain currently boasts the seventh-best average finish of 14.7 among full-time Cup Series competitors. He ranks eighth for most laps led this season, having led 311 laps overall.
Last Weekend at Charlotte Roval: During the race at the Charlotte Roval last weekend, Chastain started from the 16th position. His race was tumultuous, as he was spun out twice and collided with another driver in the final stages, causing damage to his No. 1 Chevrolet that required multiple pit stops for repairs. As a result, the handling of his car was adversely affected, leading to a 28th-place finish.
NASCAR: Full Speed: Fans can catch Chastain in the five-episode docuseries “NASCAR: Full Speed” on Netflix, which chronicles segments of his 2023 season both on and off the track. All five episodes are currently available for streaming.
2023 Season Recap: Chastain claimed victories at Nashville Superspeedway in June and at the season finale in Phoenix Raceway in November. Over his third full-time Cup season, he notched 10 top-five and 14 top-10 finishes, finishing ninth in the points standings.
Ross Chastain Career Statistics
Chastain Quotes:
You started a trend at Phoenix last year and followed it up a couple of weeks ago as a non-playoff driver winning in a playoff round. How unusual is that?
“I can only speak for ourselves; observing the No. 17 car (driven by Chris Buescher) winning at Watkins Glen showcases that there are cars, including us and the 17, that can compete in the playoffs. However, we simply didn’t execute effectively over the 26 races to qualify. I don’t see it as a trend other than the fact that the No. 1 car is capable of winning any week, be it at the start, middle, or end of the season.”
Do you enjoy racing at Las Vegas?
“I have been fortunate to drive some fast Trackhouse Chevrolets at Las Vegas in recent years. I won my first Xfinity Series race there, so it holds significant meaning for me. I really enjoy racing at that track and am eager to get back out there.”
About WWEX Group:
WWEX Group, the parent brand for Worldwide Express, GlobalTranz, and Unishippers, is a top
-ranked, full-service logistics provider delivering enhanced parcel, less-than-truckload (LTL), truckload, and managed transportation shipping services to customers throughout the nation. Clients enjoy improved visibility and value-focused solutions, thanks to the expertise of the company’s logistics professionals, proprietary technology, distinctive data assets, and business intelligence capabilities. The WWEX Racing initiative emerged from a commitment to meet the complex and often neglected shipping requirements within the performance motorsports sector, leveraging the unique strengths derived from over 80 years of combined experience from the three brands.
Suárez Notes
Playoffs: Last weekend, Suárez was eliminated from the playoffs during the Round of 12 at the Roval of Charlotte Motor Speedway. He has participated in the playoffs in two of the last three seasons.
Las Vegas: In March, Suárez secured an 11th place finish at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Back in 2025: Trackhouse Racing made an announcement in August that Suárez and Freeway Insurance will continue to partner with the No. 99 Chevrolet racing team for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, marking their fifth year together. Freeway will serve as the primary sponsor for one-third of the 2025 season, including notable events like the Daytona 500 and the NASCAR All-Star race.
Married Man/Racer: On July 30, Suárez wed his fiancée Julia Piquet in a ceremony held in Brazil. Just four days later, he participated in the NASCAR Brazil race at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, commonly known as Interlagos. He triumphed in one of the three races and contended fiercely for victory in the other two.
Making History: Suárez has achieved the remarkable feat of winning in NASCAR Mexico and Brazil, in addition to all three major American series.
Suárez is Now a Dual Citizen of Mexico and the United States: On June 18, Suárez took the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony attended by media, friends, NASCAR colleagues, and NASCAR President Steve Phelps, who delivered the keynote address to the 48 newly naturalized citizens from 28 different countries. Hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, the 32-year-old moved to the U.S. approximately 13 years ago without knowing English. He passed the United States Citizenship test on April 29 in Charlotte, completing his journey on June 18. He is now a dual citizen of both Mexico and the United States.
Atlanta Victory: At Atlanta, the finish between him and runner-up Ryan Blaney was a mere 0.003 seconds apart. This marked the fourth-closest finish in series history and, with Kyle Busch in third place just 0.007 seconds behind the winner, it stands as the closest finish between three cars in the annals of auto racing.
First Mexican to Win in Cup: On June 12, 2022, at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, Suárez became the first driver from Mexico (Monterrey) to win in the NASCAR Cup Series.
International Driver: He belongs to a select group of six non-American drivers who have won a NASCAR Cup Series race: Shane van Gisbergen (New Zealand), Marcos Ambrose (Australia), Juan Pablo Montoya (Colombia), Earl Ross (Canada), and Mario Andretti (Italy). Ambrose, Montoya, and Suárez each hold two triumphs.
Cup Career Highlights: Suárez boasts two victories (Sonoma 2022 and Atlanta 2024) and three Busch Light Pole Awards from Pocono (Pa.) Raceway in July 2018, Kentucky Speedway in July 2019, and the road course at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in August 2023.
Daniel Suárez Career Statistics
Suárez Quotes:
How do we approach the final four races?
“Our objective is to win these races. Regardless of the playoff standings, we are all racers, and we compete because we desire victory. Winning any of these final races would enhance the off-season experience. We will continue to work diligently to improve.”
Thoughts on the season?
”We’re not satisfied, but true happiness only comes with being a champion. Making it to the Round of 12 is an achievement in itself, especially considering the stiff competition in this series. We recognize that we can perform better and will strive continually until we reach the level of contention for the championship.”
Meet Daniel Suárez
5 p.m. Saturday
Hard Rock Café in Las Vegas
About Tootsie’s:
Tootsie’s has been operating almost continuously since 1960, right across the alley from Opry Entertainment’s renowned Ryman Auditorium, a famous Nashville performance venue and previously the iconic home of the Grand Ole Opry.
Between 1960 and 1978, Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess purchased a lounge named “Mom’s” and rebranded it in her own honor. Due to its close location to the Ryman Auditorium, Tootsie’s quickly became a popular gathering spot for the rising stars of the Grand Ole Opry during the years the Opry was hosted at the Ryman.
Marks Nominated for West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame
BAKERSFIELD, California – Justin Marks, the founder and owner of Trackhouse, stands among six first-time nominees in a pool of 20 candidates vying for induction into the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2025.
Voting by the organization’s Board of Directors commenced this week.
In this initial round of voting, ten finalists will emerge, leading to a final vote where five inductees will be chosen. The date and location for the 2025 Induction gala, sponsored by World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway, will be revealed later this month.
Established in 2001, the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame aims to honor key contributors and milestones in the realm of stock car and motorsports competition. The Hall’s mission centers on preserving the history and heritage of influential figures in west coast stock car racing and motorsports—acknowledging their vital roles through yearly enshrinements of exceptional individuals and groups, including but not limited to designers, engineers, mechanics, drivers, race track owners, promoters, publicists, and motorsports media members.
A 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Hall is devoted to supporting various organizations coast to coast. Over the past 6-1/2 years, the Hall has successfully raised more than $1 million for various charitable causes, including youth initiatives, health and safety programs, hospitals, animal rescues, military charities, and more.
To learn more about the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame, visit: www.WestCoastStockCarHallofFame.com
Watch Chastain on NASCAR: Inside the Playoffs
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Trackhouse Racing Assists with Hurricane Helene Cleanup
This month, forty employees from Trackhouse Racing loaded over 15 trucks with essential supplies and tools to head to Asheville, N.C., where they partnered with Aerial Recovery to support rescue and recovery efforts in areas severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. Team members spent their day delivering supplies to homes and clearing fallen trees and debris from driveways, roadways, and residences. Additionally, they conducted welfare checks in regions where flooding had washed out roads, leaving families stranded in remote locations. The employees have since returned multiple times to the hardest-hit areas of Western North Carolina and continue to collect donations at the shop to deliver critical supplies to affected regions.
Watch Justin Marks on Kevin Harvick’s Podcast
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Watch Daniel Suárez in Season 2 of NASCAR Full Speed on Netflix
NASCAR Studios has officially announced the debut of the second season of ‘Full Speed,’ which is set to premiere on Netflix in 2025. This season will provide behind-the-scenes coverage of Trackhouse Racing driver Daniel Suárez’s playoff journey in 2024.
This announcement follows the success of the first season, which mirrors the format of the Formula 1 series ‘Drive to Survive,’ the Golf series ‘Full Swing,’ and the Rugby series ‘Six Nations: Full Contact.’
The inaugural season, released earlier this year, comprised five episodes beginning just before the Cup Series Playoffs. While details about Season 2 remain under wraps, it is expected to maintain a similar structure.
A specific release date has not yet been announced; however, the first season premiered on Netflix in January. More information will be provided in the coming months.
Trackhouse Racing in 2025
In August, Trackhouse Racing revealed the acquisition of a third charter for three-time Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen, who will join Ross Chastain and Daniel Suárez in the team’s lineup for the 2025 Cup Series.
For 2025, van Gisbergen’s Chevrolet will bear the number 88, a number that has achieved victory lane 76 times in NASCAR history, driven by legends such as Dale Earnhardt Jr., Darrell Waltrip, Dale Jarrett, Donnie Allison, Ricky Rudd, Rusty Wallace, Buddy Baker, and more.
Doran, 38, will take on the role of crew chief for the No. 88 team starting in 2025. Currently, he is in his inaugural season as a crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series, collaborating with driver Zane Smith on the No. 71 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports. A native of Butler, Pennsylvania, Doran launched his NASCAR career at Petty Enterprises in 2006 and served as the lead engineer for Kevin Harvick at Stewart-Haas Racing from 2014 to 2023.
The future is promising for Trackhouse.
Connor Zilisch, a rising star among America’s young race car drivers and part of Trackhouse’s driver development program, will demonstrate his abilities full-time in the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet for the consistently competitive JR Motorsports (JRM) organization.
Zilisch made headlines by becoming one of only seven drivers to achieve victory in his Xfinity debut, showcasing his dominance at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International in September.
He has triumphed in America’s two most prestigious sports car events—the Rolex 24 in Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring—as well as in ARCA and CARS Tour races throughout 2024.
The JRM organization has been instrumental in the careers of several NASCAR stars, including William Byron, Chase Elliott, Brad Keselowski, and Tyler Reddick.
WeatherTech will be a primary sponsor for half of the season for both Van Gisbergen and Zilisch.
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NASCAR to Compete in Mexico City in 2025
A few days in August saw Daniel Suárez make a trip back home to aid NASCAR in creating a significant piece of history.
This marks the inaugural occasion that the NASCAR Cup Series will feature cars racing for points in Mexico. On Sunday, June 15, 2025, the prestigious Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez road course in vibrant Mexico City will host this milestone event as part of the 2025 schedule.
The historic weekend will also witness competitions from the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Mexico Series on the road course.
This new international NASCAR event was unveiled on August 27 during a press conference at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, attended by Suárez and local as well as NASCAR officials.
“It’s been unbelievable,” Suárez expressed. “A lot of people are excited here in Mexico today. This is a day we will remember for a very long time. We were discussing last night at dinner how today, we are making history. We are bringing the world’s premier stock car series to Mexico City for a points race for the very first time in the Modern Era. It’s just incredible.”
“I feel extremely humbled and blessed to be part of this announcement, and I can’t express how many people are downstairs taking photos and recording,” Suárez noted regarding the impressive media presence at the announcement. “The energy was amazing, and we are still several months away from the race.”
The iconic road course spans 2.674 miles, features 17 turns, and sits at an elevation of 7,342 feet. Established in 1959, the track honors the racing brothers Ricardo Rodríguez and Pedro Rodríguez. The circuit underwent renovations in 2015 and has since hosted eight Formula 1 Grand Prix, establishing itself as one of the most sought-after international racing venues and a spectacular location for NASCAR enthusiasts.
Suárez on the Mexico City Announcement and Race:
Were you anticipating the excitement surrounding Mexico’s inclusion, or was there anything about the announcement or its reception that surprised you?
“Honestly, I knew the announcement would generate a lot of energy. To be truthful, I didn’t expect such a large turnout of media in Mexico. It was astonishing. I asked Ben (Kennedy) if he had anticipated this level of attendance, and he mentioned that while he expected it to be good, he didn’t foresee it being this exceptional. I’m thrilled and very, very happy. For me, this is a dream realized. Coming from Mexico and having been born and raised there makes this incredibly special. The last time I raced in Mexico City was ten years ago, so returning next year will be truly significant.”
Given the pressure, you really need to win that race…
“I’d better win (laughs). If we do win that race, it’s going to be…”
Winning the championship would be monumental, and I’m incredibly excited about it. When that weekend arrives, it might feel like just another occasion, but honestly, navigating the many demands from various people will be challenging. Nonetheless, it’s going to be an enjoyable experience. I am truly grateful to find myself in this position, living the NASCAR dream during such a remarkable time. Discussing it with friends, I realized that if I were 33 years old twenty-five years ago in NASCAR, attending events in Mexico would likely not have been possible. So, my gratitude is immense.”
Having grown up in Mexico, how have you observed the evolution of NASCAR’s popularity and fan engagement over the years?
“Absolutely, the passion for motorsports has been a significant part of Mexican culture for a long time. Gradually, this enthusiasm has expanded to encompass NASCAR as well. NASCAR has become an essential sport in Mexico, and its popularity continues to rise through the NASCAR Mexico Series and the Cup Series now making its presence felt there. This is a significant milestone. Many people are eagerly anticipating this development. The media response and turnout for the announcement exceeded my expectations immensely. I am both excited and grateful.”
Trackhouse Racing PR
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Trackhouse Racing Prepares for Milestone Races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway as 2024 Season Nears Conclusion
Overview of Trackhouse Racing
Trackhouse Racing has carved a unique niche in the world of NASCAR since its inception. With a commitment to innovation and a focus on performance, the team has quickly become a formidable presence on the track. As the 2024 season approaches its conclusion, the team is gearing up for a series of milestone races at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Significance of Las Vegas Motor Speedway
The Las Vegas Motor Speedway is known for its high-speed, competitive racing, making it a crucial stop on the NASCAR calendar. The track has a reputation for producing thrilling finishes and is a favorite among fans and drivers alike. Here are some key features of this iconic venue:
- Length: 1.5 miles
- Configuration: Tri-oval
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 80,000
- First Race: 1996
Trackhouse Racing’s Goals for the Upcoming Races
As Trackhouse Racing prepares for the upcoming races at Las Vegas, the team aims to achieve several important objectives:
- Enhance driver performance and consistency.
- Leverage data analytics for strategic advantages.
- Strengthen team dynamics and communication.
- Achieve top finishes to secure a strong position in the championship standings.
Key Drivers and Their Performance
The success of Trackhouse Racing heavily relies on its remarkable drivers. Here’s a brief overview of the key drivers’ performance in the 2024 season:
| Driver | Races Completed | Top 5 Finishes | Points Standings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daniel Suárez | 30 | 8 | 5th |
| Ross Chastain | 30 | 6 | 8th |
Preparation Strategies for Milestone Races
To prepare for the challenging races at Las Vegas, Trackhouse Racing has implemented several strategies that focus on maximizing performance and minimizing risks.
1. Advanced Simulation Techniques
Utilizing cutting-edge simulation technology allows the team to analyze every turn and pit stop. By simulating various race scenarios, they can refine their strategies and make informed decisions on race day.
2. Enhanced Pit Crew Training
The pit crew plays a crucial role in a team’s success. Trackhouse Racing conducts regular training sessions to improve speed and efficiency during pit stops. This preparation is vital for maintaining competitive positioning throughout the race.
3. Data Analytics and Telemetry
The team employs advanced data analytics to monitor car performance and driver behavior. By analyzing telemetry data, they can identify areas for improvement and optimize the car setup for the Las Vegas track conditions.
The Importance of Fan Engagement
Trackhouse Racing understands the significance of connecting with fans. Engaging the fan base not only boosts team morale but also enhances overall brand visibility. Here are some ways the team fosters fan engagement:
- Social Media Campaigns: Regular updates and behind-the-scenes content keep fans engaged.
- Fan Events: Hosting meet-and-greet events creates personal connections with supporters.
- Merchandising: Offering exclusive merchandise enhances the fan experience and loyalty.
Case Studies: Success Stories at Las Vegas
Trackhouse Racing has had some noteworthy performances at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Here are a couple of case studies that highlight their success:
Case Study 1: Daniel Suárez’s Top Finish
In the 2023 season, Daniel Suárez achieved an impressive top-5 finish at Las Vegas, showcasing his driving skills and the team’s strategic acumen. Key factors that contributed to this success included:
- Effective tire management throughout the race.
- Smart pit strategies that minimized time loss.
- Adaptability to changing track conditions.
Case Study 2: Ross Chastain’s Comeback
Ross Chastain demonstrated remarkable resilience during a challenging race in 2023. After falling back early in the race, his ability to navigate traffic and capitalize on late-race cautions led to a remarkable recovery and a top-10 finish. Critical factors included:
- Consistent communication with the crew during the race.
- Utilizing lap times to adjust racing lines effectively.
- Maintaining focus and composure despite setbacks.
Benefits of Focused Preparation and Teamwork
Trackhouse Racing’s commitment to preparation and teamwork brings several benefits:
- Increased Performance: A well-prepared team is more likely to perform better under pressure.
- Stronger Team Dynamics: Effective communication fosters collaboration and camaraderie.
- Enhanced Fan Experience: A successful team generates excitement, further engaging the fan base.
Firsthand Experiences from Trackhouse Racing Members
The insights from team members provide a unique perspective on their experiences. Here’s what some of them have shared:
Quotes from the Team
“The energy at Las Vegas is unlike any other track. We thrive on the excitement and push ourselves to perform at our best.” – Daniel Suárez
“Every race is a learning opportunity. Our preparation allows us to adapt quickly to any situation.” – Ross Chastain
Looking Forward: Future Prospects for Trackhouse Racing
As the 2024 season nears its conclusion, Trackhouse Racing is not just focused on the upcoming races but also on building a strong foundation for future seasons. The lessons learned and successes achieved at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway will serve as a springboard for ongoing growth and competitiveness in NASCAR.
Continuing Innovation
The team is committed to remaining at the forefront of technological advancements in racing. By investing in research and development, Trackhouse Racing aims to maintain its competitive edge in the years to come.
Strengthening Partnerships
Building strong relationships with sponsors and partners will also be a key focus. These partnerships play a crucial role in providing the necessary resources to support the team’s ambitious goals.
Conclusion
As Trackhouse Racing prepares for milestone races at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the team’s dedication to excellence, teamwork, and fan engagement positions them for success. With a clear focus on performance and strategy, Trackhouse Racing is ready to make a lasting impact in the final races of the 2024 season.
