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Deegan lands at ThorSport for another season in Truck Series

The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022

SANDUSKY, Ohio (AP) — Hailie Deegan has another full-time ride in the NASCAR Truck Series, this one with ThorSport Racing.

ThorSport formally added Deegan to its driver lineup Thursday as it announced a manufacturer switch from Toyota to Ford.

The 21-year-old California native will race in the third-tier series for the third consecutive season. She finished a series-best sixth at Talladega Superspeedway in October and was named the series' Most Popular Driver for the second consecutive year, both with David Gilliland Racing.

“I think the last two seasons in trucks I’ve been trying to figure it out and kind of learning the ropes of the Truck Series, and I feel like I’ve good a grasp on it now and understand what you need to be successful as a driver, what the team needs to do for their part and the people you need to have around you," Deegan said. “There’s just a lot of pieces to the puzzle, and I think maybe the last two years it was trying to find those pieces and trying to figure it out.”

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Just like dad: Mick Schumacher goes from Ferrari to Mercedes

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Just like dad: Mick Schumacher goes from Ferrari to Mercedes

The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022

MARANELLO, Italy (AP) — Mick Schumacher is leaving Ferrari for another of the teams his father raced for.

Mercedes announced on Thursday that Schumacher will be its reserve driver for 2023 behind Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.

He had been racing in Formula One with Ferrari-powered Haas.

“I take this as a new start, and I am just excited and grateful to Toto (Wolff, Mercedes team principal) and everybody involved for putting their trust in me,” Schumacher said. “F1 is such a fascinating world, and you never stop learning, so I look forward to absorbing more knowledge and putting in all my efforts for the benefit of the Mercedes team.”

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022

MARANELLO, Italy (AP) — Mick Schumacher is leaving Ferrari for another of the teams his father raced for.

Mercedes announced on Thursday that Schumacher will be its reserve driver for 2023 behind Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.

He had been racing in Formula One with Ferrari-powered Haas.

“I take this as a new start, and I am just excited and grateful to Toto (Wolff, Mercedes team principal) and everybody involved for putting their trust in me,” Schumacher said. “F1 is such a fascinating world, and you never stop learning, so I look forward to absorbing more knowledge and putting in all my efforts for the benefit of the Mercedes team.”

Ferrari relying on experience with Vasseur as team principal

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Ferrari relying on experience with Vasseur as team principal

The Associated Press 3 minute read Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022

MARANELLO, Italy (AP) — Chasing its first Formula One drivers' title in 15 years, Ferrari is counting on experience and familiarity by hiring Frédéric Vasseur as team principal.

Vasseur was most recently team principal at Sauber and Alfa Romeo and has had an extensive career in F1 and auto racing. His hiring set off a chain reaction with Andreas Seidl leaving McLaren to replace Vasseur as Sauber's new team principal. McLaren, in turn, promoted its executive racing director Andrea Stella to replace Seidl.

That comes a day after Williams announced that its team principal Jost Capito and technical director François-Xavier Demaison were leaving after the team finished last in the constructors’ championship — meaning four of the 10 teams changed leadership in a 24-hour span.

The 54-year-old Vasseur worked with Ferrari lead driver Charles Leclerc at Sauber and the pair already have a solid relationship.

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Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022

FILE - Frederic Vasseur is pictured during the first practice session at the Hungaroring racetrack in Mogyorod, northeast of Budapest, Hungary, Friday July 28, 2017. Vasseur has been appointed as Ferrari team principal on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022. (Zsolt Czegledi/MTI via AP, File)

F1: Williams team principal Capito leaves after 2 years

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

F1: Williams team principal Capito leaves after 2 years

The Associated Press 2 minute read Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

GROVE, England (AP) — Team principal Jost Capito and technical director François-Xavier Demaison are leaving Williams after it finished last in the Formula One constructors' championship.

Capito led the team for two seasons after investment firm Dorilton Capital bought the team in 2020 from the Williams family.

“It has been a huge privilege to lead Williams Racing for the last two seasons and to lay the foundations for the turnaround of this great team. I look forward to watching the team as it continues on its path to future success," Capito said in a statement on Monday.

No reason was given for Capito's departure. The statement included a comment from Dorilton chairman Matthew Savage that the 64-year-old German “postponed his planned retirement” when he took the Williams job.

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Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

GROVE, England (AP) — Team principal Jost Capito and technical director François-Xavier Demaison are leaving Williams after it finished last in the Formula One constructors' championship.

Capito led the team for two seasons after investment firm Dorilton Capital bought the team in 2020 from the Williams family.

“It has been a huge privilege to lead Williams Racing for the last two seasons and to lay the foundations for the turnaround of this great team. I look forward to watching the team as it continues on its path to future success," Capito said in a statement on Monday.

No reason was given for Capito's departure. The statement included a comment from Dorilton chairman Matthew Savage that the 64-year-old German “postponed his planned retirement” when he took the Williams job.

Thursday Night Thunder: SRX all-star series moves to ESPN

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Thursday Night Thunder: SRX all-star series moves to ESPN

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

Tony Stewart's all-star summer racing series is moving to ESPN and a new night as the network plans to use SRX to revitalize its “Thursday Night Thunder.”

ESPN said Monday it signed a multi-year agreement with Superstar Racing Experience that begins in July. SRX will air on six consecutive summer nights as “Thursday Night Thunder," which was ESPN's branding for motorsports programming that started in the 1980s.

The old programming showcased grassroots racing from across the country.

“Thursday Night Thunder is where guys like me, who were just starting our careers in USAC, got the chance to make a name for ourselves because of its presence on ESPN,” Stewart said. “It’s great to see Thursday Night Thunder return, but to also be a part of it all over again with SRX.”

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Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

FILE - The SRX car of Tony Stewart is seen during the debut race of Superstar Racing Experience (SRX) at Stafford Motor Speedway on June 12, 202,1 in Stafford, Conn. Stewart's all-star summer racing series is moving to ESPN and a new night as the network plans to use SRX to revitalize its “Thursday Night Thunder", ESPN announced Monday, Dec. 12, 2022. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill, File)

IndyCar to showcase series with docudrama on The CW Network

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

IndyCar to showcase series with docudrama on The CW Network

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022

IndyCar has landed its own “Drive to Survive” type docudrama that will showcase the buildup to next year's Indianapolis 500.

The six-part “100 Days to Indy” will air on The CW Network next spring and chronicle the 100-day window ahead of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” on May 28 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Filming will begin with the IndyCar season opener through the checkered flag at the Indy 500.

The program will be co-produced by Penske Entertainment and VICE Media Group. Penske Entertainment is the division of Roger Penske's business empire that owns IndyCar and the speedway, and VICE Media Group is a global multi-platform media company.

“The Indy 500 is the most unique, exhilarating and engaging event on the planet,” said Mark Miles, president and CEO of Penske Entertainment. “It’s an unrivaled spectacle fueled by ambitious, fearless and captivating personalities. This series will give viewers an unprecedented front row seat as the racing season begins and the countdown to Indy accelerates."

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Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022

FILE - Team Penske driver Will Power, of Australia, celebrates after winning third place in the IndyCar season finale auto race at Laguna Seca Raceway on Sept. 11, 2022, Monterey, Calif. IndyCar has landed its own “Drive to Survive” type docudrama that will showcase the buildup to next year's Indianapolis 500. The six-part “100 Days to Indy” will air on The CW Network next spring and chronicle the 100-day window ahead of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” on May 28, 2023 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. (AP Photo/Nic Coury, File)

Verstappen’s home Dutch GP extends F1 contract through 2025

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Verstappen’s home Dutch GP extends F1 contract through 2025

The Associated Press 1 minute read Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022

LONDON (AP) — Formula One champion Max Verstappen will have a home race until at least 2025 after the Dutch Grand Prix agreed to a two-year contract extension.

The Dutch Grand Prix returned to the calendar in 2021 at the seaside Zandvoort circuit for the first time since 1985 and has attracted packed crowds to cheer Red Bull driver Verstappen, who has won both races.

“The Dutch Grand Prix has quickly established itself on the calendar as a fan favorite, bringing incredible energy and a great fan experience,” F1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali said in a statement on Thursday. "The sold-out events in the last two years have raised the bar in terms of organization, entertainment, and sustainability, and we are delighted to extend our relationship with them.”

The 2023 race is scheduled for Aug. 27.

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Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and team's principal Christian Horner celebrate Verstappen's third championship title after the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

US, Belgium named among hosts for 6 F1 sprint races in 2023

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

US, Belgium named among hosts for 6 F1 sprint races in 2023

The Associated Press 1 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022

LONDON (AP) — The United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, and the famed Spa-Francorchamps track in Belgium will host their first sprint races on the Formula One calendar for next season.

F1 had already committed to doubling the number of sprints from three to six and confirmed the hosts Wednesday.

The sprint races take place on Saturdays before the main Grand Prix a day later. Sprints are held over a shorter distance and award fewer points, and also set the grid for the next day's race. They have been credited with making the race weekend as a whole more attractive to TV viewers since they were first trialed in 2021. Qualifying moves from Saturday to Friday when a sprint is on the schedule.

Besides Austin and Spa, the other sprints next season will take place at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the Austrian Grand Prix, the returning Qatar Grand Prix and the Brazilian Grand Prix. Of those, Austria and Brazil hosted two of the three sprints in 2022, and Brazil was also a host in the initial 2021 trial.

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Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands, left, and Red Bull driver Sergio Perez of Mexico lead at the start during the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

Ganassi adds another Kiwi in Armstrong to IndyCar lineup

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

Ganassi adds another Kiwi in Armstrong to IndyCar lineup

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 5 minute read Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

Marcus Armstrong was a Scott Dixon fan his entire life and when he was 8, the aspiring young racer asked his fellow New Zealander to autograph a helmet visor that he hung on his bedroom wall.

Next year, Armstrong will be Dixon's teammate.

Armstrong on Friday was named the fourth IndyCar driver in the Chip Ganassi Racing lineup and will pilot the No. 11 next season on road and street courses. A driver for the five oval races on the 17-race schedule will be named later.

The No. 11 is essentially the No. 48 that seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson drove the last two seasons, with Chip Ganassi making the change to run four cars numbered in sequential order. Indianapolis 500 winner Marcus Ericsson drives the No. 8, six-time champion Dixon drives the No. 9, and 2020 IndyCar champion Alex Palou drives the No. 10.

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Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

In this photo provided by James Gasperotti, New Zealand driver Marcus Armstrong is shown at the Enzo and Dino Ferrari racetrack, in Imola, Italy, April 21, 2022. Chip Ganassi Racing has signed New Zealand driver Marcus Armstrong to join its IndyCar lineup next season. Armstrong spent the last three seasons in Formula One feeder series F2 and will drive the No. 11 for Ganassi. (James Gasperotti via AP)

F1: Chinese Grand Prix canceled again over pandemic

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

F1: Chinese Grand Prix canceled again over pandemic

The Associated Press 2 minute read Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

LONDON (AP) — Formula One confirmed Friday that the Chinese Grand Prix will not take place in 2023, making it the fourth year in a row the race has been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

F1 has not visited the Shanghai circuit since 2019 as China pursues a strict policy of local lockdowns, virus tests and entry restrictions during the pandemic, long after other countries on the F1 calendar eased many of their measures. The “zero-COVID” approach has led to rare protests within China in recent weeks.

“Formula 1 can confirm, following dialogue with the promoter and relevant authorities, that the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix will not take place due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 situation,” F1 said in a statement.

“Formula 1 is assessing alternative options to replace the slot on the 2023 calendar and will provide an update on this in due course.”

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Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

FILE - Drivers prepare for the start of the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit, Sunday, April 14, 2019, in Shanghai, China. Formula One confirmed Friday, Dec. 2, 2022 that the Chinese Grand Prix will not take place in 2023, making it the fourth year in a row the race has been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan, File)

Chase Elliott wins most popular driver for 5th straight year

Teresa M. Walker, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Chase Elliott wins most popular driver for 5th straight year

Teresa M. Walker, The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Chase Elliott simply can't be beat when it comes to his grip on NASCAR 's title as fans most popular driver.

Not even with a late social media push by Ryan Blaney to end Elliott's reign.

In a season in which he won five races and finished fourth overall, Elliott added another victory Thursday night. At the season-ending awards ceremony at the Music City Center, the National Press Association declared Elliott winner of the fan-decided most popular award for a fifth consecutive year.

Elliott had a message for Blaney, who surprised him by campaigning for the award on social media. Blaney also had fun with Elliott, whose tweets featured videos that included accusing the driver sponsored by Hooters of thinking parmesan garlic chicken wings are “too spicy.”

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASCAR fan favorite Chase Elliott, left, speaks during the NASCAR Awards on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Logano celebrates 2nd NASCAR Cup title, already wanting 3rd

Teresa M. Walker, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

Logano celebrates 2nd NASCAR Cup title, already wanting 3rd

Teresa M. Walker, The Associated Press 5 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Joey Logano has a simple target for the future even as he celebrates his 2022 NASCAR Cup championship.

Add yet another.

Logano this season joined Kyle Busch as the only active NASCAR drivers with multiple Cup series titles, adding to the first Cup championship he won in 2018. Being the only active driver with three Cup titles would be even sweeter.

“That’s where my head is at right is, ‘Let’s go get another one,’” Logano said Thursday before he was feted at NASCAR's annual awards ceremony.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

FILE - NASCAR Cup Series driver Joey Logano speaks during the NASCAR Championship media day, Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, in Phoenix. Joey Logano has a simple target for the future even as he celebrates his 2022 NASCAR Cup championship. Add yet another.(AP Photo/Matt York, File)

Ty Gibbs declines to discuss sudden death of his father

Teresa M. Walker, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Ty Gibbs declines to discuss sudden death of his father

Teresa M. Walker, The Associated Press 4 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Ty Gibbs on Thursday declined to discuss the death of his father, which occurred just hours after the young NASCAR driver won the Xfinity Series championship last month.

Gibbs was asked about his grandfather, Hall of Famer Joe Gibbs, telling the employees at Joe Gibbs Racing they all had to move forward, even as they mourn the sudden death of 49-year-old Coy Gibbs.

Coy Gibbs died in his sleep just hours after his 20-year-old son won the Xfinity Series title on Nov. 5 at Phoenix Raceway.

“For right now, I’m not going to touch on any other subject at all, so I’m just going to stick with all the racing questions and I will go from there," Ty Gibbs said before NASCAR's annual awards ceremony.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

FILE - NASCAR Xfinity Series auto racing driver Ty Gibbs speaks during the NASCAR Championship media day, Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, in Phoenix. Ty Gibbs on Thursday, Dec. 1, declined to discuss the death of his father hours after the NASCAR driver clinched the Xfinity Series championship last month. (AP Photo/Matt York, File)

Kevin Harvick will know if 2023 is final season by Daytona

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Kevin Harvick will know if 2023 is final season by Daytona

The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Kevin Harvick will know if 2023 will be his last as a fulltime NASCAR driver before the season-opening Daytona 500 in February.

“I don't really have a clear answer on that right now,” the 2014 Cup champ said Thursday about his future. “I think as we get to Daytona, I know 100% that we will have a direction because I'm not going to start the season without knowing that direction just because of the fact that there's just a lot of layers to unfold and really go through and evaluate. And so, we'll see. I think it could go either way at this particular point.”

Gene Haas said in October that Harvick had indicated he didn't plan to drive after his contract expires at the end of the 2023 season. Haas said Stewart-Haas Racing wants Harvick to sign an extension to return to the team co-owned by Tony Stewart.

Harvick won his lone Cup title in his first season with the team. He spent the first 13 years of his Cup career with Richard Childress Racing, and next season will be his 10th with SHR.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

FILE - Kevin Harvick speaks during NASCAR Daytona 500 auto racing media day at Daytona International Speedway, Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, in Daytona Beach, Fla. Harvick will know if 2023 will be his final NASCAR season before he goes too Daytona in February. “I don't really have a clear answer on that right now,” the 2014 Cup champ said about his future Thursday, Dec. 1, before the NASCAR Awards. (AP Photo/John Raoux, File)

Jamie Chadwick parlays W Series success into Andretti ride

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Jamie Chadwick parlays W Series success into Andretti ride

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

Jamie Chadwick, the three-time W Series champion, has at last parlayed her success in the all-women series into a bigger ride.

The British racer on Thursday was selected the driver for Andretti Autosport in the Indy NXT Series next season. Indy NXT is the new name of the rebranded Indy Lights Series, the final step on the ladder system before IndyCar.

Chadwick will make her debut in an American racing series in March, driving the No. 28 for Andretti Autosport with sponsorship from DHL. The 24-year-old will become the first female in 13 years to compete fulltime in the Indy NXT championship.

Chadwick joined the female free-to-enter W Series in its inaugural 2019 season, winning two races and the first of three consecutive championships. She has been a reserve driver for the Williams Formula One team and will continue in that role in 2023.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

This photo provided by Andretti Autosport shows British racer Jamie Chadwick testing an INDY NXT car on the road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Oct. 21, 2021. Three-time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick has finally parlayed her success into a bigger ride. (Andretti Autosport via AP)

NASCAR, Goodyear extend partnership in new multi-year deal

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

NASCAR, Goodyear extend partnership in new multi-year deal

The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASHVILLE (AP) — Goodyear will remain the exclusive tire for NASCAR's top three national series under a new multi-year deal announced on Thursday.

Specifics of the extension weren't included, but the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company will continue as title sponsor of the annual Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway as part of NASCAR's Official Throwback Weekend Cup Series race.

NASCAR has partnered with Goodyear since 1954 on tires that can stand up to the demands of racing conditions. NASCAR President Steve Phelps said Goodyear has played a critical role in racing.

“For more than 25 years, Goodyear Eagle tires have been the only component that connects the stock car to the racetrack," Phelps said. "Our continued partnership will allow us to push boundaries and innovate our racing product for generations to come.”

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

NASHVILLE (AP) — Goodyear will remain the exclusive tire for NASCAR's top three national series under a new multi-year deal announced on Thursday.

Specifics of the extension weren't included, but the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company will continue as title sponsor of the annual Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway as part of NASCAR's Official Throwback Weekend Cup Series race.

NASCAR has partnered with Goodyear since 1954 on tires that can stand up to the demands of racing conditions. NASCAR President Steve Phelps said Goodyear has played a critical role in racing.

“For more than 25 years, Goodyear Eagle tires have been the only component that connects the stock car to the racetrack," Phelps said. "Our continued partnership will allow us to push boundaries and innovate our racing product for generations to come.”

McLaren name Alex Palou reserve driver for F1 team

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

McLaren name Alex Palou reserve driver for F1 team

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

Alex Palou was named a Formula One reserve driver for McLaren Racing on Thursday, confirming the end of a prolonged battle for the IndyCar champion and the F1 team.

The Spaniard, who won the 2021 IndyCar championship for Chip Ganassi Racing, last July said he was declining to return to Ganassi next year and instead would drive for McLaren.

Ganassi held an option on 2023 for Palou, who wanted to move to McLaren for a shot at motorsports' highest level. The fight for the driver dragged into September through mediation, where it was decided that Palou would finish his contract and also be allowed to do F1 opportunities with McLaren.

The 25-year-old Palou has since tested for McLaren and he made his F1 debut at the United States Grand Prix in October when he drove the first practice session.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

FILE - McLaren test driver Alex Palou, of Spain, drives during a practice session for the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix auto race at Circuit of the Americas, Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, in Austin, Texas. IndyCar driver Alex Palou will be the reserve driver next season for McLaren in Formula One, the first step in his 2024 move from Chip Ganassi Racing to McLaren in either IndyCar or F1. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

Speed Sport to launch motorsports television channel in 2023

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Speed Sport to launch motorsports television channel in 2023

Jenna Fryer, The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

One of the oldest motorsports publications in the United States has partnered with a network development group to launch a television channel dedicated to racing in 2023.

Speed Sport, which began as National Speed Sport News in 1934, announced its deal Thursday with Obsession Media to debut SPEED SPORT 1 next spring.

SPEED SPORT 1 plans to broadcast over 400 live events and thousands of hours of motorsports content across free ad-supported streaming television and traditional linear platforms. Other platforms currently described as FAST services include Paramount’s Pluto TV, Comcast’s Xumo, Fox’s Tubi, Amazon Freevee and The Roku Channel.

SPEED SPORT 1 plans to broadcast motorsports competition, news, information, behind-the-scenes action, lifestyle programming and documentaries. It is being developed by Obsession Media, a consortium of motorsports and television executives with backgrounds ranging from ESPN, Disney and MTV to the original motorsports-dedicated platforms Speedvision and Speed Channel.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

Joey Logano (22) leads the field on the parade lap during a NASCAR Cup Series auto race Sunday, Nov. 6, 2022, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Ferrari team principal Binotto leaving after troubled season

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Ferrari team principal Binotto leaving after troubled season

The Associated Press 2 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

MARANELLO, Italy (AP) — Ferrari is parting ways with Mattia Binotto after 28 years — four as head of the Formula One team — following a hideous season of botched strategy calls that cost Charles Leclerc any chance to contend for the championship.

Leclerc opened with two wins in the first three races and seemed poised to challenge Max Verstappen for the F1 title, a prize no Ferrari driver has won in 15 years. He finished nearly 150 points adrift and without a win since July.

Binotto's departure was rumored for the last few months as Verstappen and Red Bull ran away with the drivers' and constructors' championships.

Ferrari's performance was an improvement on 2020 and 2021, when it didn't win any races, but falling so far behind after a promising start frustrated Leclerc and the fans.

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Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc of Monaco in action during the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

Ricciardo returns to Red Bull as team’s third F1 driver

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Ricciardo returns to Red Bull as team’s third F1 driver

The Associated Press 2 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

MILTON KEYNES, England (AP) — Daniel Ricciardo will return to Red Bull Racing next season as the team's third driver — a role which keeps the popular Australian in Formula One but not on the actual grid.

Red Bull finalized the hiring Wednesday after Ricciardo and the team both indicated during last weekend's season finale they were formalizing the role. As third driver, Ricciardo will help Red Bull with testing and simulator work, as well as commercial activity.

Max Verstappen, the reigning two-time world champion, and Sergio Perez are the team's two drivers.

“It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character, I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home," said Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.

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Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

MILTON KEYNES, England (AP) — Daniel Ricciardo will return to Red Bull Racing next season as the team's third driver — a role which keeps the popular Australian in Formula One but not on the actual grid.

Red Bull finalized the hiring Wednesday after Ricciardo and the team both indicated during last weekend's season finale they were formalizing the role. As third driver, Ricciardo will help Red Bull with testing and simulator work, as well as commercial activity.

Max Verstappen, the reigning two-time world champion, and Sergio Perez are the team's two drivers.

“It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character, I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home," said Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.

Ohio court sides with NASCAR in challenge to broadcast tax

Julie Carr Smyth, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Ohio court sides with NASCAR in challenge to broadcast tax

Julie Carr Smyth, The Associated Press 2 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Ohio Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the state's attempt to tax NASCAR for broadcasting its races in Ohio was unlawful.

At issue before the court was whether the state tax commissioner properly subjected those broadcasts to Ohio’s commercial activities tax during an audit from 2005 to 2010. The tax requires payments on a company's annual sales.

The court ruled that the Daytona Beach, Florida-based NASCAR's broadcast revenue, licensing revenue, media revenue and sponsorship fees were wrongly subjected to the tax. A group of three justices on the 7-member court dissented over licensing fees.

The state had argued that it imposed the tax based on NASCAR's commercial activity, including the organization's sale of Ohio broadcast rights. Tuesday's ruling reverses a Board of Tax Appeals ruling in its favor and sends the organization's disputed tax bill — which totaled $529,520 — back to the panel to be readjusted.

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Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Ohio Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the state's attempt to tax NASCAR for broadcasting its races in Ohio was unlawful.

At issue before the court was whether the state tax commissioner properly subjected those broadcasts to Ohio’s commercial activities tax during an audit from 2005 to 2010. The tax requires payments on a company's annual sales.

The court ruled that the Daytona Beach, Florida-based NASCAR's broadcast revenue, licensing revenue, media revenue and sponsorship fees were wrongly subjected to the tax. A group of three justices on the 7-member court dissented over licensing fees.

The state had argued that it imposed the tax based on NASCAR's commercial activity, including the organization's sale of Ohio broadcast rights. Tuesday's ruling reverses a Board of Tax Appeals ruling in its favor and sends the organization's disputed tax bill — which totaled $529,520 — back to the panel to be readjusted.

F1 champion, activist Vettel bids farewell after final race

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

F1 champion, activist Vettel bids farewell after final race

The Associated Press 3 minute read Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Ahead of his final race in Formula One, Sebastian Vettel lined up for the national anthem wearing a T-shirt with a picture of Earth, a nod to his environmental activism. Then eight jets flew overhead trailing colorful smoke.

It was a moment that highlighted the delicate balance the four-time F1 champion treads as a lifelong auto racing fan increasingly uneasy at the toll his passion takes on the planet.

“It’s a huge privilege being in the position that we are in and with that comes some responsibility. So I hope to pass on a little bit to the other drivers to carry on some of the good work. It’s great to see that we have the power to inspire you with what we do and what we say,” Vettel said after the race.

“I think there’s far bigger and far more important things than racing in circles, but obviously it’s what we love. And through that, if we can transfer some of the really important values, then that’s big.”

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Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022

Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel of Germany burns the tires as he finished his last race in career at the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Sunday, Nov.20, 2022. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili, Pool)

Champion Max Verstappen ends F1 season with 15th win

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Champion Max Verstappen ends F1 season with 15th win

The Associated Press 3 minute read Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A year after one of the most controversial finishes in the history of Formula One, Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was anything but.

Max Verstappen, as usual this season, was far ahead of the rest on his way to a record-extending 15th win of the season.

“Incredible to win again here, 15th win of the season is unbelievable,” Verstappen said. “It’s been really enjoyable to work with the whole team and to be able to achieve something like this this year.”

At the track where he beat Lewis Hamilton last year — after a restart call that is still hotly disputed to this day —Verstappen held off his teammate Sergio Perez at the start and didn't face a serious challenge after that in the season-ending race.

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Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands, left, and Red Bull driver Sergio Perez of Mexico lead at the start during the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

US driver Logan Sargeant set to race in F1 in 2023

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

US driver Logan Sargeant set to race in F1 in 2023

The Associated Press 2 minute read Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Logan Sargeant earned the Super License he needed to race for Williams in Formula One and will become the first American on the grid since 2015 when he makes his debut next season.

Sargeant needed to finish at least sixth in the season standings in Formula Two to qualify for an F1 Super License. Williams earlier said the Florida-born driver would get the seat for 2023 if he met the requirements and helped him do so by giving him practice time in F1 sessions.

Sargeant finished fourth in the F2 standings after a fifth-place result in the last race of the season Sunday.

“Thank you all for your hard work and efforts this year. We were damn quick, so thank you for everything," Sargeant told his team. Sargeant was named Rookie of the Year in F2 and was congratulated by Williams for “a great job" in a Twitter post.

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Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022

Williams test driver Logan Sargeant drives during a practice session for the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix auto race at Circuit of the Americas, Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

F1: Verstappen beats Perez to pole for Abu Dhabi GP

The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

F1: Verstappen beats Perez to pole for Abu Dhabi GP

The Associated Press 4 minute read Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — After a public rift, a display of team unity at Red Bull.

A week after Formula One champion Max Verstappen refused the team's order to yield sixth place to Perez in the Brazilian Grand Prix — Verstappen has still not explained exactly why — the Dutch driver led Perez out onto the final lap of qualifying with a slipstream at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Verstappen qualified first on Saturday, with Perez second, and both drivers praised the virtues of teamwork. Red Bull has already secured the drivers' title for Verstappen and the constructors' title as best team.

Red Bull says its aim for Sunday's race is to secure second place in the drivers' standings for Perez ahead of Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to underline a dominant season. A win for Verstappen would be his 15th of the season, extending the record he set in Mexico City last month.

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Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands in action during qualifying session for the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

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