Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Ben Kennedy across Nascar.
The North Wilkesboro Speedway announces its inaugural NASCAR triple-header race weekend in May 2026, showcasing the Craftsman Truck Series, the comeback of O’Reilly Auto Parts, and a $1 million All-Star Race with a prime-time Fox Sports broadcast.
North Wilkesboro Speedway, an 80‑year‑old venue, will headline a historic NASCAR weekend from May 21‑23, 2027, featuring the Cup, Truck and O’Reilly Auto Parts series, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the first nighttime All‑Star Race with a $1 million purse.
After decades of dormancy, North Wilkesboro Speedway will host the 2027 NASCAR All-Star Race, capping a weekend of historic events that also feature Truck and O’Reilly Series dates, new format twists and a $1 million prize purse.
From May 21‑23, 2027, North Wilkesboro Speedway will stage a three‑day NASCAR tripleheader that marks the oldest track’s return to the sport’s biggest stage, featuring a $1 million All‑Star purse and a celebration of racing heritage.
An exploration of NASCAR’s experimental race venues, the logistical challenges of moving its massive support fleet, and the growing role of private investment in shaping the series’ future.
NASCAR is negotiating a $15 million grant from Illinois for a 2027 Chicago Street Race, but the state has only allocated $5 million. The shortfall has sparked schedule uncertainty, venue explorations and discussions involving Ben Kennedy, while the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Chicagoland Speedway remain key players.
NASCAR’s leadership clarified that the France family has no intention to sell the sport, even as antitrust litigation and leadership turnover create uncertainty.
The Chicago Street Course, a three‑year staple of NASCAR's calendar, is confronting a fiscal crisis that threatens its place on the schedule. At the same time, the series eyes a San Diego race on an active military base, pending Navy approval and a favorable holiday weekend.
NASCAR's return to Chicago's lakefront street race has stalled over a disputed state subsidy, with legislators allocating only $5 million instead of the $15 million sought. The missed June announcement and looming 2027 schedule deadline add urgency to the negotiations.
Negotiations over a state subsidy have stalled, leaving the planned 2027 Chicago street race uncertain despite earlier speculation.
NASCAR’s comeback to Chicagoland Speedway delivered a sell‑out crowd, a record 28 lead changes and driver praise, but the series’ long‑term schedule remains unsettled.
A tribute race honoring Kyle Busch will showcase vintage-style Legend and Bandolero competition at Winston‑Salem’s historic Bowman Gray Stadium, directing funds to a charitable foundation.
Samantha Busch shared a heartfelt tribute after the announcement of the Kyle Busch Invitational, an event that will blend Legend car and Bandolero racing with a charitable mission.
Steve O’Donnell, who took the helm of NASCAR in April 2026, is blending three decades of internal experience with a bold vision that includes committee‑driven reform, mentorship of Ben Kennedy, and an aggressive push into new markets.
Scott Dixon revealed he sometimes naps during NASCAR events, while Kyle Larson argued that three‑hour races are too long, sparking a broader conversation about race duration.
NASCAR will stage a special event at Bowman Gray Stadium in mid‑August to fulfill Kyle Busch’s wish, featuring his son Brexton Busch in a Legends race that will benefit the Bundle of Joy Foundation. The tribute will culminate with a 'Celebration of Life' at Charlotte Motor Speedway in October and a first‑ballot Hall of Fame induction for Busch, confirmed by COO Ben Kennedy.
In a recent podcast appearance, Kennedy said Kyle Busch’s Hall of Fame induction is a certainty, citing a 2013 rule change that allows drivers over 55 to bypass the usual waiting period.
NASCAR’s leadership is reshaping its image, promoting drivers who blend on‑track success with digital engagement, while veteran Chase Elliott remains a private figure in a sport eager for younger fans.
From his first glimpse of a race car at Lime Rock in 2000 to a broadcasting desk and a podcast, Parker Kligerman’s journey reflects a deep‑rooted passion for speed, competition and storytelling.
Parker Kligerman, a seasoned NASCAR driver and co‑owner of Lime Rock Park, is set to race in the series he helped bring to the historic Connecticut venue, reflecting on his early beginnings and future ambitions.
NASCAR is weighing a return to Chicago’s street circuit in 2027, hoping to host two races a year despite ongoing deficits, a move that could reshape the tour’s schedule and challenge traditional venues.
NASCAR’s 2026 race at Chicagoland Speedway sold out despite earlier doubts, attracting a globally diverse audience and sparking discussions about a potential 2027 return.
A seasoned voice in American stock car racing looks back on five decades of competition, health challenges, brand partnerships and the evolving landscape of NASCAR.
The recent NASCAR Cup Series event at Chicagoland Speedway delivered thrilling competition, highlighted by Chase Briscoe’s maiden victory on a 1.5‑mile track, and has reignited discussions about the Chicago Street Race and a potential double‑header in the region.