Some Eye Candy outside the Penske Racing Museum

Hmm, that sure is a strange lookin’ Ferrari Vern! (The Tomaso Collection)

 

As why is Supertramp’s Dreamer, You know You’re A Dreamer song playing in my Head right now. You’re Nothing but A Dreamer, Tomaso!

 

Trying to “Stitch” together the languishing thoughts of another great visit to the Penske Racing Museum this past March. Which naturally is fading away, since time simply marches on, Hut One-Two-four!

 

Traipsing thru the Penske Racing Museum, Again

 

As here’s what I initially scribbled upon my return home, which I’ve tried adding more context to, along with my usual corrections…

 

A lone Lamborghini Huracan Evo sat parked alongside a stable of Prancing Horses. Next to a Ferrari F8 Tributo, followed by a Ferrari Roma. Then a pair of SF90 Stradale’s followed by quattro 296GTB’s; ranging in cost from $320k to $400k, Aye Karumba! Although I believe that the F8 Tributo was above $500,000, Sheisa!

 

Pretty sure I had another of my “Strike the Pose” pictures snapped standing between a pair of Ferrari 488’s. Initially thinking that one was  a coupe and the other being a Spyder model. Although later, Blogmeister’ Miguel informed me they both appeared to be Coupes.

 

Have to say my only minor disappointment was the fact that there were no 296 GTS models for sale, albeit these were the previously owned models holding court outside in the Penske Auto Group’s voluminous parking lot…

 

As how can one be disappointed with being able to freely saunter around such a stunning collection of previously owned Ferrari’s and Lamborghini’s! While having Blinders for all of the other luxury brands, i.e.; Aston Martin, Bentley, etc. Including the Joey “Sliced Bread” Lagano Ford Mustang GT Taxicab Bomber, Zoink!

 

Ironically, Lagano just broke “The King”, aka Richard Petty’s record for being the youngest driver to reach 600 starts at Dover, being some six month younger than Petty…

 

They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But being Blind, have I mentioned that lately, Y’all? Naturally I was nervous posing around such expensive automobile finery with my white cane. Which contrary to many, is not a walking or hiking stick, seriously people?

 

Blogmeister Miguel made sure I didn’t get too close to any of these beautiful Ferrari’s. Or whack ‘em with my cane!

 

Naturally I have zero clue what looks better? The Huracan, F8 Tributo or Roma? Although I know which of these three I would choose to own…

 

Thought that the F8 Tributo was the final Ferrari built with its traditional V-8 engine, to which Miguel immediately told me that the Roma had a V-8, so what do I know, Ci?

 

As both the F8 Tributo and Roma utilize Ferrari’s Tipo 154 CV 3.9-litre twin turbocharged V-8 engine, that first debuted in the 2013 488 GTB. Which contrary to my rudimentary knowledge of Ferrari’s model naming conventions, for which there appears little, Ci? The 488 denotes the actual per “Cilindri” cubic volume (CC) of its v-8 engine. Hmm, I just learned something new, Magnifico!

 

As the Tipo 154 V-8 engine was the first turbocharged motor developed by Ferrari since the F40’s Tipo 120A Wayback’ in 1987.

 

Both the F8 Tributo and Roma utilize seven speed sequential dry sump automatic transmissions. Arse-sumedly with Ferrari’s de riggour steering wheel paddle shifters.

 

The F8 Tributo is a two door mid-engine layout, whilst the Roma is a front engine 2+2 model. Both presumably with plenty “O Horsepower to Giddie Up!

 

As the F8 Tributo has 710bhp on “tap” to claimed 0-62mph in 2.9 seconds. 0-124mph in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 211mph,Magnifico!

 

Whilst Road & Track reportedly flogged their U.S. spec model thru the Quarter mile in 10.3 seconds at 132.8mph. Making Ferrari’s 0-100kp/h (62mph) and 0-200kp/h (124mph) claims slower then stated, but its still no slouch!

 

The SF90 Stradale, a la F8 Tributo also debuted in 2019. While the soon to be out of production Roma debuted in 2020. And is la Scuderia’s first plug-in hybrid automobile It uses a slightly enlarged 4.0-litre version of the Tipo 154 V-8 twin-turbo engine, which as been produced in four various capacities.

 

Fitted with an eight speed dual clutch automatic dry sump transmission. The car utilizes three electric motors, one on the transmission, and one on each front wheel. Developing a staggering 986bhp total output!

 

Ferrari claims the SF90 can reach 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds, 0-124mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed also of 211mph. Which I’d say is very impressive since I’d Arse-sume the electric motors and battery add significant weight to the car.

 

The SF90 Stradale comes in two body configurations, i.e.; Berlinetta or Spyder. The latter being an electronically driven retractable hardtop.

 

While the 296 GTB’s seem almost not worth discussing, especially with four various “garden” variety 296 GTB’s parked together.

 

But its hard to scoff at any Ferrari, and the 296 GTB is a serious piece of Kit as those Bloody Brits would say. Even if it utilizes a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V-6 in place of la Scuderia’s traditional V-8 engines…

 

Joey Lagano’s No. 22 Ford Mustang GT racecar photo inside Penske Racing Museum c/o Blogmeister Miguel. 

A Simple deed

The type that makes you smile on the inside…

 

Last week I went to the grocery store twice, to split up my oversized load. And both times I got to go thru my favourite Cashier’s line…

 

Dave, whose predominantly a NASCAR and NHRA fan, nonetheless have begun talking motor racing with Mwah while checking my groceries. Which I get to do very little these days. Making it especially refreshing in what is simply known as Ducks country. As in the Oregon Ducks who are our next door neighbour 50-plus miles east…

 

As I was happy to hear Dave say previously He’d watched the Indianapolis 500. Along with telling me His travails of trying to get access to NASCAR’s six race Amazon Prime segment. For which it sounds like it really shouldn’t have been that hard for Him!

 

First telling me that the account was in His widow’s name so they wouldn’t take His credit card. And then having to pay $47 for Amazon’s tech support to just tell Him His TV was too old. Before Dave figured out He could hook His computer via an HDI cable? Into the back of His TV and Walah!

 

So I’d casually asked Dave who’d won the Mexico City NASCAR race while Dave was multi-tasking and He couldn’t come up with the name at the moment, which really didn’t matter to me.

 

Naturally, I was pleasantly surprised when three days later without prompting, Dave told me that The Giz’, aka Shane Van Gisbergen had won at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez and that a lot of people were upset about Van Gisbergen now being in the playoffs, thanks to His first win this season.

 

As I’d totally already forgotten about this, and had never bothered finding out who’d won…

 

But what really impressed me about Dave was His elaborating upon Van Gisbergen being in His words a five times Australia Supercars Champion who’s from New Zealand. And when I mentioned there was another Kiwi’ named Scott McLaughlin, Dave immediately said He’s in IndyCar’s! Before I said they’re both Bad Arses from Down Under! With Dave saying they’d come Stateside where All the money is.

 

As Dave’s longtime favourite Roundy-Round RASSCAR’ driver is Kyle Busch, who He claims is the highest paid NASCAR driver, making a ridiculous $35 million, which I have no idea if that’s true?

 

But what made me truly happy was the fact that Dave knew before I’d finished my sentence not only who ScottyMac’, nee Scott McLaughlin was, but that He was an IndyCar driver!

 

Especially since this conversation was taking place in Bumfiddle’ Florence! Three days later and that Dave had made an effort to remember to tell me the winner’s name. Since I highly doubt a “Huge” portion of our miniscule population follows IndyCar, or even knows what it is… 

Andretti to Back new Racing venture

This just received from IndyCar…

 

CONCORD, NC

For Immediate Release

 

Michael Andretti, former owner of Andretti Global, in conjunction with Jay Frye, former NTT IndyCar Series President and Gavin Ward, former Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team Principal, will partner to race fulltime in the 2026 NASCAR Cup series

 

The team to be known as Phoenix Racing, will also run a limited schedule this summer, beginning with the inaugural Mexico City NASCAR race. Followed by Chicago’s Street race, Sonoma, Indianapolis, Watkins glen and Daytona.

 

Andretti will serve as Chairman of Phoenix Racing, which has received permission from James Finch to use it’s namesake, who previously operated Phoenix Racing between 1990 and 2013 with multiple drivers such as2004 NASCAR Cup champion Curt Busch, Brad Keselowski, Scott Pruett, Ron Fellows, A.J. Allmendinger, Jacques Villeneuve, Mike Wallace, Geoffry Bodine and others.

 

As the team wished to run with Finch’s traditional No. 51, but that number is currently utilized by Cody Ware of Rick Ware Racing. And thus the team’s single car entry will sport the No. 44, also synonymous with Phoenix Racing, which Brad Keselowski won the team’s lone NASCAR race at Talladega’s Super Speedway’s 2009 Aaron’s 499 Sprint cup event.

 

The team will include all of Phoenix Racing’s past Sprint Cup history as part of it’s newly created heritage.

 

Jay Frye, well known in IndyCar circles, has a wealth of former NASCAR and World of Outlaws experience. Dating back to the early 1990’s as then Valvoline’s motorsports sponsorship director , working with Roush Racing and driver Mark Martin. Along with establishing Valvoline’s relationship with NASCAR’s preeminent team Hendrick Motorsports.

 

Frye was instrumental in setting up the MB2 Motorsports NASCAR Cup team in 1997 when the Mars Corporation was seeking to start a new NASCAR race team with Rick Hendrick. As MB2 saw Ernie Irvan score three pole positions the following season, including that year’s Brickyard 400.

 

MB2 Motorsports expanded to a two car operation in 2000, with driver Johnny Benson Jr. winning the team’s first NASCAR race at Rockingham in 2002. MB2 Motorsports sold the majority of it’s ownership to Bobby Ginn in 2006, with Frye retaining an 20% ownership stake. Renamed as Ginn Racing, the team then merged with Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007.

 

Frye then went to work for Red Bull Racing’s NASCAR operation, helping drivers A.J. Allmendinger and Bryan Vickers improve dramatically. As Frye was named Executive of the Year by both ESPN and the Kansas city Star in 2008 after Vickers finished 19th overall.

 

Vickers would score the team’s first of two wins at Michigan International Speedway the following year, while Kasey Kahne would claim the second and final Red bull Racing NASCAR victory at Phoenix International Raceway in 2011, before Red Bull shuttered it’s NASCAR operation. For 2012, Frye joined Hendrick Motorsports as an Executive for Business development.

 

In November, 2013, Frye became the Chief revenue Officer of Hulman Motorsports, overseeing both it’s IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway operations. Frye then next served as President of IndyCar Competition before being named the President of the NTT IndyCar Series in 2018, before leaving the organization after ten years in February, 2025.

 

We felt that Jay Frye with His wealth of NASCAR expertise and vast network of both IndyCar and NASCAR participants, along with seeing the introduction of technical innovations such as the Aeroscreen and hybrid Energy Recovery System, (ERS) make Him the perfect fit to serve as team principal.

 

Gavin Ward, new to NASCAR, will serve as the team’s Technical Director, reporting directly to Frye. As Ward who studied Automotive Engineering at Oxford Brookes University, held various roles with Red bull Racing in formula 1.

 

Ward worked with the likes of David Coulthard, Mark Webber, Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo during His Red Bull tenure as a Race Engineer and Aerodynamicist before moving onto Indy Cars.

 

In 2018, Ward joined Team Penske as Josef Newgarden’s race engineer, amassing 13 wins along with winning the 2019 NTT IndyCar Series Championship before moving to Arrow McLaren where He served as the team’s Director of Trackside Engineering initially in 2022.

 

Ward then rose to become Arrow McLaren’s Team Principal before departing at the end of 2024, and is known for His “People first” mentality and plans to build another strong racing organization with Phoenix Racing.

 

Andretti is planning to run former Spire Motorsports driver Cory Lajoe at the team’s two Oval races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway later this summer. As Lajoe has a wealth of experience on Super Speedways. And will make His racing debut for Phoenix Racing at the Brickyard 400.

 

Andretti claims the team is looking at a possible Open Exemption Provisional )OEP entry for World Class International drivers for next year’s Daytona 500, with the driver to be named later. Although Andretti did mention the possibility of the likes of Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Perez, or even Helio Castroneves whom Andretti knows well from His IndyCar days.

 

Phoenix Racing will campaign a single Ford Mustang out of the former Money Team premises in Mooresville, North Carolina, in a technical alliance with Gene Haas’s Haas Factory Team entry, utilizing former Stewart Haas Racing Ford Mustang chassis.

 

Andretti plans to become a two car operation next season. As Andretti is confident that at least one NASCAR Charter can be acquired for the 2026 season, but wouldn’t comment further. Saying more information would be provided later this year.

 

While also noting that the team had a further two exciting drivers in the pipeline for its 2025 road courses and street circuit NASCAR events, who would also be named shortly, along with their various sponsors. Noting how fans would be very excited over their Mexico City driver. 

Wood Brothers Honour Jimmy Clark

As almost makes me wanna “Tune-in” to this NASCAR race…

 

Ran across the following article when scurrying thru Racer.com to “See” what has happened in Ye Wurld de Motorsporten whilst away from Thy Gory keyboard…

 

Very cool to read that the Wood Brothers of NASCAR fame are honouring Jimmy Clark’s 1965 Indianapolis 500 victory with a Throwback theme Ford Mustang at Darlington over April 5-6.

 

The No. 21 Wood Brothers entry of Josh Berry will be resplendent in the iconic Lotus colours of Colin Chapman’s British racing green and yellow. Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Clark’s Indianapolis 500 victory. The first for Ford and the first for a rear engine racecar.

 

While this year also commemorates the 75th Anniversary of the legendous’ Wood Brothers racing team. With Glen, Leonard, Delano and Ray Lee Wood amongst Clark’s Pit crew at Mother Speedway that May sixty years ago. Having been brought aboard the Lotus Indianapolis effort to speed up the team’s pit stops, which saw Clark lead 190 of 200 laps that day!

 

The Wood Brothers tribute car was presented at the Henry Ford museum in Dearborn with Clark’s Lotus alongside. And the Wood Brothers received the full blessing of Clive Chapman, son of Colin for the Throwback livery… 

When does Age become More than just a Number?

And should we Glorify these Ageless Warriors…

 

This riveting No Fenders “thread” first crystalized in my Noggin’ when reading about Lindsey Vonn returning to competition at age 40, earlier this year. Before Mike Wallace had His NASCAR Dance Card rescinded.

 

Then it really started picking up steam upon Will Power saying He thinks He can continue racing in Indy Cars for another five years, upon hiring His first ever agent. With A14 Management led by some smarmy Spaniard named Frederico Suave, aka Fred Alonso who’s nearly five months His Junior!

 

As it should come as no surprise that Will Power is the elder statesman of Team Penske’s twelve main racing series drivers, i.e.; IndyCar, Sports Cars and NASCAR.

 

As William Steven Power turns a robust 44yrs old on March 1st, and presumably will be hoping for either pole position on His actual birthday, or winning St Pete as a birthday present the following day! Whilst Power’s two Team Penske IndyCar drivers XcottyMac’, aka Scott McLaughlin is the youngest at age 31, just a stitch six months younger than Ryan Blaney. Wit Josef Schlick’ Newgarden being 34 years old.

 

Penske’s six Sports Car Hotschues’ vary in age from 29 to 40. As Nick Tandy’s only four years younger than Power, at age 40. With Kevin Estr, (36) Laurens Vanthoor, (33) Felipe Nasr, (32) Mathieu Jaminet (30) and Matt Campbell, (29) following in descending order.

 

Of Team Penske’s trio of Roundy Round drivers, ergo NASCAR. Austin Cindric (#2) is the youngest at age 26. Followed by 2023 Cup Champion Ryan Blaney, (#12) age 31. With reigning Cup Champion Joey “sliced Bread” Logano (#22) being 34 years old.

 

And for every Ageless Warrior, there’s always a flip-side example. As now I’m even more cornfuzed’ over why perennial Sports Car Champion Dane Cameron at age 36 got the Boot from Penske, when Estr’s the same age and Tandy’s four years older, Huh?

 

While Sports Car’s “Pro Am” (Amateur) Ben Keating and George Kurtz are 53 and 54 respectively. But they’re both “Gentlemen” drivers, i.e.; wealthy businessmen who like to go racing and play in the big Leagues, albeit in the second tier LMP2 category, primarily…

 

Meanwhile, perhaps you’ve heard that Mike Wallace was denied His application to attempt racing in this year’s Day-Toner’ 500 at age 65. Which I feel was prudent, since the middle of the three Wallace racing brothers hadn’t raced on a Super Speedway in ten years.

 

Yet on the flip-side, the Daytona Beach News Journal reminded me that ‘Ol Blue Eyes’, aka Paul Newman had won the Rolex 24 at age 70! Competing in a nasty Roush Racing Mustang in the GTS class with Mark Martin, Tommy Kendall and Mike Brockman. With Newman racing into His 80’s, Yureka!

 

Having scribbled another, typical long form four parts No Fenders tome about ‘Ol Blue Eyes’, sheez, a few years ago now. With Newman’s racing exploits chronicled below in:

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2022/07/diving-into-paul-newmans-racing-career.html

 

With my Cliff Notes tome about Paul Newman’s A Life book review are located here:

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2022/07/paul-newmans-life-book-review.html

 

Whilst I don’t know if it’ll make DJ WillyP’ )Will Power) feel old? Since I can still recall getting His and His two Penske teammates Juan Pablo Montoya and Helio Castroneves John Hancock’s at Sonoma nearly eleven Gory years ago! But as everyone knows, Hulio’, who’ll turn 50 on May 10th just contested His maiden Day-toner’ 500. While Montoya had a totally disappointing “One-off” Roundy round RASSCAR’ outing for 23/Xi Racing at Watkins Glen last year at age 49.

 

Ro-Ro’, I feel another No Fenders yarn being spun about this remarkable Team Penske trio’s accomplishments…

 

And just to put things into quick perspective. Jacob Abel, Christian Lundgaard, David Malukas and Sting Ray robb were All born the year that our current elder statesman of IndyCar, Scotty “Iceman 2.0” Dixon who turns 45 in July, was born, Yikes!

 

With Kyffin Simpson being the youngest IndyCar driver who can’t drink any “bubbly” on the podium until this October, currently being only  20yrs old. As I could go on ‘n on…

 

But like I said, it was none other than decorated Downhill Skier Lindsey Vonn who got this whole story started, and currently captivates me. As I’d have to Arse-sume the whole notion is for Vonn to compete in a remarkable fifth Winter Olympics next year in Italy, which she has since stated.

 

As the St Paul, Minnesota native says Her comeback is partially fueled by the likes of Tom Brady, Lewis Hamilton and Serina Williams All competing professionally in their forty’s. As seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Sir Lewis turned the Big 4-OH’ on January 7th, and is set to embark upon His debutante season driving for la Scuderia, ergo Ferrari.

 

Vonn at age 40, made Her comeback at St Moritz, with a credible 14th place finish after having last competed some six years earlier. Gaining everybody’s Attenzione at St Anton with finishes of sixth and fourth, Momma Mia!

 

Then I suppose you could say reality struck? Since Lindsey owns the record for twelve wins at Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy. Yet She only managed finishes of 20th and then crashed out, while tracking fifth in the Super G event, I believe.

 

Although Vonn was uninjured, and said She was  actually glad, since it tempers expectations that were starting to get out of hand. And She’s still rusty and needs more competition before next year’s Olympics.

 

Vonn, who retired at age 34 after Her right knee was simply “gone”, said all She’s thought about the past eleven years is the knee. And had resigned Herself to living life with a painful knee, before having reconstructive knee surgery last year. When Her troublesome right knee was repaired with titanium, which Lindsey said just days after the surgery, She was pain free!

 

Thus, as long as it doesn’t take away a younger skier’s ability to compete at Cortina d’Ampezzo in Milan, 2026. And Vonn’s inclusion on the US. Olympics Women’s Ski team is merit based, then I’m All for Her remarkable comeback to succeed! As Vaughan is the oldest female to win a winter Olympics skiing medal at 33 in 2018 at PyeongChang, South Korea. While no female has won a major skiing event over age 34.

 

And as much as Lindsey decorated career of 82 wins, 137 podiums and three Olympic medals shines. She’ll be hard pressed to compete vs. Mikaela Schiffron, who turns 30 on March 13th. Whose the current record holder with a staggering 99 victories, 154 podiums and three Olympic medals to date. With two Gold medals vs. Lindsey having just one.

 

Although I must say that Vonn’s comeback and attempt to Cap’ Her career at Cortina d’Ampezzo makes me think of Bode Miller and His unquenchable thirst for competing, who contested five Winter Olympics before finally retiring in 2017.

 

Meaning we should enjoy watching the likes of Lindsey, Serena, Lewis, Power, Dixon, etc. continuing to defy the odds of “Father time” anxiously waiting to say, “Bring Me your Torch!” 

Ode to DannaCar’

Yep! It's that time of the year once again to honour the Disco Queen of 'RASSCAR! Although I’ve got No idea  think She’s got a Valentine's suitor this year?

 

Having just learned that Danica and Carter Comstock Broke up over a year ago. Hmm? Isn’t “Tommy terrific,” aka Tom Brady available?

 

Nevertheless, here we go, And Ah One and Ah Two!

 

Toe to toe
Dancing very slow
Barely breathing
Almost comatose…

(pressdog!)

Wall to wall
People hypnotized
And they're stepping lightly
Hanging on her every move each night in Rapture

Back to back
Sacrailiac
Spineless movement
And a wild attack

Face to face
Sadly solitude
And it's finger popping

Twenty-four hour shopping

In ‘DannaCar Land!

“Flavour Flav HMS Monogram told me everybody's high
DJ's spinning' are saving' my mind
Flash is Fast, Flash is cool
Jacke Vanilla sez fast, Flashe' no do

And you try to stop

(Watching’ MAC Montoya, Sam Hornish & ALL those Open Wheel DEFECTORS!)

SURE SHIT!

Just go out to the parking lot
Get in your car and you drive real far

Away from the track!

After you drive all night, you see a bright flashing light

And it comes right down and lands on the ground
And out pops a Girl in a shiny sequin bathing suit from RASSCAR!

And you try to run but She's got a gun
And She shoots you dead and “She eats your head
And then you're in the Girl from RASSCAR!

You go out at night, eatin' Racecars

 You eat Marches, Reynard’s, Swift’s and Panoz’s too…

And you don't stop, you keep on eatin' Single Seaters
Then, when there's no more Racecars left
You go out at night and eat up Open Wheel Racing series instead

Like Champ Car and the IRL

While ‘Ol timers desperately cling to fantasies of a renaissance…

 

Face to face, dance cheek to cheek

One to one, man to man
Dance toe to toe
Don't move to slow, 'cause the Girl from RASSCAR is cutting thru

(Excuse me HULIO!)

 

But Mrs. Hospenthal is through with the competition

‘cause She's been eatin' a ton ‘O snicker bars
Yeah, wall to wall, door to door, hall to hall
She's gonna eat 'em all
Rapture…

 

Be pure
Take a tour; through the sewer
Don't strain your brain

Just check out that Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue instead!

And then say it real fast

Boog-itee- Boog-itee- Boog-itee!

Paint a train, cause you’ll be singing' in the rain

If dare ain’t some ‘Tin Tops on real soon
I say stop throwin those mountain dew cans at Pretty Boy Floyd

Junior Nation!

Just be good ‘ol boyzs and cheer for ‘dannaCar instead!

Well now you see what you want to be

Just like Mike, who’s trying to pump up ‘Dem Spin-Car ratings on TV
'Cause the Girl from RASSCAR won't eat Candy bars when She’s PEAK-ing

In the bright lights…

 

As now She's gone back up to MARS Where She won't have a hassle with the human race ‘cause now its ‘DannaLand!

And you hip-hop, and you don't stop
Just blast off, sure shot
'Cause the Girl from RASSCAR stopped eatin' Racecars
And now She only devours IndyCar

get up, ‘Cause She’s gone HOLLYWOOD!

 

(Original lyrics: Blondie, Rapture)

 

Originally written by Tomaso on Feb 15, 2008

(Last Modified: February 7, 2023)         

other Open Wheel Racers who’ve competed in the Daytona 500

But not all 62 of them!

 

Naturally, after I’d finished the original, mondo three pages, or was it thoust number four? And heard the news, I decided to break this ever continuing No Fenders story into glorious two part Harmony…

 

 Obviously the most successful IndyCar drivers to race in NASCAR are A.J. foyt and Mario Andretti, with both having won the Daytona 500. As Foyt made His NASCAR Cup debut in the 1963 Riverside 500, site of one of His numerous bad accidents! With His brakes failing, summersaulting multiple times and ending up in a ravine with a broken back, ribs and ankle!

 

Foyt contested a total of 128 NASCAR Cup races, claiming seven wins, 36 Top 10’s and nine pole positions. Scoring His first win in the 1964 Firecracker 400 at Daytona.

 

SuperTex’s biggest win was the 1972 Daytona 500 driving for the Wood Brothers. Having run out of petrol the year prior when leading. With Foyt’s final start being the inaugural 1994 Brickyard 400, finishing  30th.

 

SuperMario’ was the first IndyCar driver to win the Daytona 500. Claiming victory in 1967, driving a Ford Fairlane for Holman Moody. As this would be Mario’s one and only NASCAR Cup win, albeit making only 14 starts. Huh, where have I heard that number 14 before, Eh?

 

Mario made His Grand National (Cup) debut and farewell at the same venue, Riverside raceway in California, in the Motor Trend 500 between 1966 and 1969.

 

Scott Pruett, five-times Rolex 24 winner, and multi Grand Am Sports Car champion raced in Cup for one season with Cal Wells Racing in 2000. Driving the No. 32 Ford Taurus Tide entry, finishing a respectable P19 in His Cup debut.

 

As Scooter’ would race several years as a Cup “Road Ringer”, finishing runner-up to former IndyCar protagonist Robby Gordon at The Glen in ’03, His career best Cup result.

 

Robby “DirtMann” Gordoun’ raced in Cup between 1991  and 2012, just shy of 400 races. Winning a total of three Cup races, including sweeping the aforementioned ’03 Road races. Ironically with that Watkins Glen race being His final Cup victory.

 

As I can still recall laughing hysterically when Gordon ran out of fuel with a single lap remaining in the 1999 Indianapolis 500!

 

Whenever I think of Juan Pablo Montoya’s Cup career, I immediately think of the year He plowed into the Track Jet Dryer, which burst into flames! Not to mention speeding in the pitlane while leading the Brickyard 400. Or when giving then Ganassi teammate Pruett the Chrome Horn treatment in Mexico City to win His debutante NASCAR Nationwide  race in 2007, Ariva-Ariva-Ariva!

 

As that Montoyer feller’ done shocked the moto racing world when deciding to leave Formula 1 for NASCAR in 2006! Making His Cup debut at Homestead, Miami. Running a total of 256 races over ten years.

 

As Montoya won the ’07 Sonoma road race, and then the 2010 Watkins Glen road race. His only two Cup wins before retiring from fulltime Cup competition at the end of 2014. Returning to IndyCar, where He won the 2015 Indianapolis 500 driving for Team Penske.

 

While I was unaware that He’d raced at The glen last year for 23/XI Racing in a third Toyota Camry in a “One-off” appearance.

 

Then Thars Queen Danica, aka Danica Patrick. Whose claim to fame is winning the 2008 Motegi IndyCar race. With Patrick parlaying that success into a Cup career with the now defunct Stewart Haas Racing.

 

Patrick made Her Cup debut in the 2012 Daytona 500, running a limited schedule that year. Then the following year, in Her first full Cup season. Danica started off with a bang. Becoming the first female to win a Pole in NASCAR at the Daytona 500! Finishing eighth overall. With Patrick capping Her cup career in 2018 with Her final outing being that year’s Day-Toner’ 500, before ending Her racing career in that year’s Indianapolis 500.

 

Michael McDowell raced two Champ Car rounds for Rocketsports in 2005 before gravitating to Cup. Winning the Daytona 500 in 2021, His first Cup win in an astounding 358 starts! And currently competes for Spier Motorsports, part of the Andretti, Err TWG Global empire…

 

A.J. Allmendinger went from promising ruSport Champ Car driver to IndyCar Star upon winning five Champ Car races in ’06 for Forsythe Racing after the dismissal of Mario Boom Boom Dominguez. Before accepting a three year deal to go Roundy round racing in Cup for the newly formed Red Bull NASCAR team.

 

As Allmendinger won the first of His three Cup victories to date in 2014 at The Glen. Before a fantastic win in the 2021 Brickyard 200 at Indianapolis. With His latest Cup triumph being the 2023 Charlotte Roval. While last year He raced fulltime in the second tier Xfinity series for Kaulig Racing.

 

Jacques Villeneuve, whom I prefer calling Jack Vanilla needs no introduction. Other than the multi-discipline racer has one Daytona 500 start to His credit.

 

Villeneuve actually made His Nextel Sprint Cup debut in 2013 for Phoenix Racing at Sonoma. Before returning to NASCAR in 2022 as part of Team Hezeberg, remember them Y’all? As Villeneuve qualifiered on speed in 40^th. And finished 22nd after a half spin and collision for the part-time non Charter team, which disappeared after one season in cup.

 

And then by my very rudimentary Taxicab Bombers’ knowledge, Conor Daly is currently the latest IndyCar driver to have successfully qualified and raced in the Day-Toner’ 500. Although Daly actually made His Cup debut for The Money Team in the 2022 Charlotte Fall Roval race.

 

For 2023 The Money Team announced that Daly would run a limited schedule for the team co-owned by world Heavyweight Champion Floyd Mayweather.

 

As Daly raced His way into the Day-toner’ 500 with an ill-handling car, due to the other non Charter competitors crashing out! With Daly ultimately finishing P29 of the 40-car field, six laps behind winner Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

 

And speaking of six degrees ‘O separation, where are Yuhs Kevin Bacon? Y’all know that Ricky boy’ (Stenhouse) had a past relationship with Danica. Whilst Conor was driving the Cup ride originally slated for Castroneves, before the deal broke down.

 

Reportedly, Daly was the 62nd driver to date to compete in both the Indianapolis 500 and Daytona 500. Making Castroneves the 63rd illustrious member to join this “club”.

Castroneves joins IndyCar Drivers racing in the Daytona 500

As Hulio’ finally gets His Wish…

 

Yeah, this is old news now. But since we’re still in the midst of “Speed Weeks” at Day-Toner’. Not to mention the Cornhole Cookout “Classic” Clash is right round the corner, as soon as we make another left turn Yeehaw! As where’s the Hot Dogs ‘n Marshmallows, Y’all?

 

Four-times Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves has made no secret of His desires to race in the Daytona 500 the past two-plus years. With a bona fide NASCAR cup race team, you’d have to say that Hulio’s got a decent shot at making the race this February.

 

As Castroneves will be the chauffeur of Trackhouse Racing’s No. 91 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry; as we’ll skip the discussion over the Camaro being out of production…

 

As Trackhouse’s part-time Project 91 third Cup entry was created to bring international Stars to the NASCAR Cup arena.

 

Although Castroneves will need to qualify either on speed or race His way into the Day-toner’ 500 in one of the two Qualifiers, since this entry isn’t one of the guaranteed 36 Franchise, Err, Uhm Charter entries…

 

Trachouse Racing debuted its No. 91 entry at the 2022 Watkins Glen round with none other than thee Iceman’, nee Kimi Raikkonen. With Raikkonen continuing His Cup career the following year at the Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.

 

The team then entered Supercars standout The Giz’, aka Shane van Gisbergen for that year’s inaugural Chicago Street race. Where Gisbergen qualified third and won upon His NASCAR debut. A feat that hadn’t been done in some 60 odd years!

 

Gisbergen then contested the Indianapolis Road Course race that Autumn, before becoming a fulltime Cup driver for Trackhouse last year.

 

Heard the news late Friday afternoon, via my Newsline for The Blind telephone service’s ESPN Online Motorsports Headlines section.

 

That NASCAR had issued a myriad ‘O rule changes that afternoon, for which I’m not gonna try explaining all of these.

 

https://racer.com/2025/01/10/nascar-issues-wide-ranging-rule-updates-ahead-of-2025-season/

 

Other than the most important is the addition of a 41st “Wild Card” exemption entry for World Class drivers, ditto Castroneves…

 

Thus Castroneves now gains immediate entry into this year’s Daytona 500 via this rules change. For which I have to say I’ve got mixed emotions over…

 

Although I never thought I’d type this, Gulp! I’m happy for Castroneves making the Daytona 500. But have to say I’m not impressed that He doesn’t have to earn it! Since this just leaves riggle room for All of the Naysayers’. Not to mention taking one giant Talking Point out of the equation.

 

Look I get it, since I know that MotoGP for instance has Wild Card entries, which you could say NASCAR’s new international 41st entry is, and good for NASCAR adding another entry into its biggest race of the year, But…

 

Hmm, does this mean that IndyCar will add a provisional Wild Card, Err, Uhm international entry to the Indy 500, giving us 34 starters?

 

As what’s the point of Bump Day, or having to actually qualify for the Daytona 500? Oh Never Mind! 

ROLEX 24: IndyCar Ringers’

But exactly how many current IndyCar drivers will take the Green flag?

 

This is just what I gleamed over the Christmas Holidazes’ initially, As Bloggers Never Sleep! With the remaining TBA Driver names drip-drip-dripping in like a thousand points of lights, or whatever…

 

Which obviously, I’ve attempted to update to the best of my Humble knowledge, prior to the green flag being waved tomorrow morning at 10:40AM Pacific.

 

Grand Touring Prototype (GTP)

As of New years, hopefully Y’all aren’t still holding your breath over Dale Coyne announcing His two IndyCar drivers, Are Yuhs? Since these two IndyCar seats were the only place that Romain Grosjean could possibly secure for this year.

As Grosjean’s current “Day Job” appears to be piloting the No. 63 Lamborghini SC63 now campaigned by Riley Motorsports during the five Michelin Endurance Cup rounds.

 

 As the Indianapolis Star’s Nathan Browne noted at Prema’s “launch” party. The announcement of Romain Grosjean as the team’s IndyCar reserve driver signals He won’t be racing in IndyCar this year…

 

Meanwhile, Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) will dip into its newly forged technical alliance with Chip Ganassi Racing by utilizing Cheeps’ top two IndyCar champions. As Scotty thee “Iceman 2.0” Dixon along with MSR IndyCar Ace Felix-the-Cat’ (Rosenqvist) will race in the lead No. 60 Acura. Whilst Alex Palou will join the No. 93 MSR entry.

 

Le Mans Prototype (LMP2)

The LMP2 category is filled with current, former and hopeful IndyCar drivers. Beginning with Andretti Global’s Colton Herta racing in the CrowdStrike by APR Racing’s No. 04 with IndyCar hopeful Toby sowery. as part of its drivers lineup.

 

Aspiring IndyCar driver Hunter McElrea will once again drive for TDF Racing, in their #11 Oreca. As McElrea has been part of its winning crew the last two races, i.e.; Indianapolis’s Battle on The Bricks and Petit Le Mans.

 

Prema Racing’s Callum Ilott joins the brand new #73 Prat Miller Motorsports lineup. Moonlighting in former RLLR driver Pietro Fittipaldi’s new season ride.

 

Whilst I was  wonderin’ if Christian Rasmussen, who was part of the winning LMP2 Era Motorsport entry last year would return to the High Banks ‘O Daytona this January?

 

Learning on January 2nd that the Dane’ would now make up part of the most popular and colourful Spike-the-Dragon’s AO Racing No. 99 entry, with Dane Cameron, PJ Hyett and Johnny Edgar lobbing “fireballs” at the competitors, Hya!

 

GTD Pro/GT Daytona

Team Penske’s ScottyMac’, aka Scott McLaughlin joins NASCAR driver The Giz’, ergo Shane van Gisbergen. Along with Trackhouse Racing Development Driver Connor Vilisch, the reigning Rolex 24 and Sebring 12 Hours LMP2 winner. Plus perennial “Gentleman” racer Ben Keating in the No. 91 Trackhouse by TF Sport Corvette Z06 GT3.R.

 

As the foursome will race in the GTD Pro category in a Trackhouse Racing and FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) TF Sport collabouration. With Keating also racing aboard the No. 52 PR1/Mathiasen Motorsports LMP2 entry.

 

Arse-sumin’ that Andretti Global’s (Kyle) Kirk’ Kirkwood will once again be Moonlighting aboard one of the Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 entries. Presumably the No. 14 entry?

 

Before the intravenous drip ‘O driver announcements confirmed on January 8th that Kirkwood would not only continue His endurance specialist role aboard the No. 14, contesting the Michelin Endurance Cup rounds. But would pull “Double Duty” between the team’s Nos 12 and 14 entries at Daytona.

 

Townsend Bell will be the No. 14’s fourth driver at Daytona

. Seeing T-Bell’ returning to the cockpit after a few years on the sidelines. Giving us the Battle of Colour commentators in GTD Pro between Bell and thee Mayor ‘O Hinchtown, nee JamesHinchcliffe in the Pfaff Motorsports No. 9 Lamborghini Huracan. With T-Bell’ continuing His announcing duties with NBC at Daytona…

 

Whilst doing my yearly Rolex 24 previews Ad Nauseam, ahead of the full driver lineups being revealed. I noticed that Kenny Habul’s now 75 Express, previously SunEnergy1 Mercedes Benz-AMG GT3 Evo had one of its #75 drivers listed as TBA.

 

Naturally this made me wonder if Will Power, who was supposed to race with fellow Aussie’ Habul two years ago before His wife Liz got horribly sick. Would somehow be the mystery driver this January? Although doubtful, this is what us IndyCar Bloggers think of over the insidious Offseason. Having scribbled about Habul’s and Power’s Australian racing exploits previously…

 

Noting how Power, who’d recovered fully from His Broken Ribs Go Karting escapade during the previous Fall. Had mused about how He used to be competing against Team Boss Kenny Habul Wayback during His Formula ford days Down Under.

 

As Habul’s crowning moment in formula ford was finishing on the Podium with Will at the 1999 Australia Formula ford support race at Surfers Paradise. Where Kenny finished third in a Sprint Qualifying race for that year’s Gold Coast Indy 300 which Power won.

 

Although Kenny’s No slouch behind the wheel, having won the Bathurst 12 Hours in 2022 and outright in 2023. Along with being a multi-times Intercontinental GT Challenge Champion…

 

Yet my pipe dream was all for naught. With the announcement of Jules Gounon announced as the fourth driver for the #75 entry on the updated Rolex 24 entry list published on January 9th. But may be some year, DJ WillyP’ will finally make His Rolex 24 debut, Eh?

 

Meanwhile, Will Power has just hired His first Agent, A14 Management. Owned by some smarmy Spaniard Frederico Suave’, aka Fred Alonso. And its U.S. representative is none other than Oriel “Suitcase” Servia, current IndyCar Pace Car driver.

 

As Power says He just wants to focus upon driving this season, even though it’s a contract year. And Yeah, He’s heard the rumours about some fresh face Punk nearly half His age driving for Foyt wanting His seat next year. Saying the Kid’s only got a handful of top ten finishes, but whatever…

 

Power says He wants to race in IndyCar a further five years, along with Sports Car and perhaps even NASCAR someday. Along with presumably both the Rolex 24 and 24 Heurs du Mans.

 

As that’s All I’ve got for current IndyCar drivers participating this year. With eight drivers making up nearly one third of the 25, Err 26 confirmed IndyCar entries as of January 13^th. As what are you doing announcing a driver this early Dale Coyne?