NASCAR: Beyond All Reason

[Spitfire]

2022 NASCAR Truck Series: Daytona International Speedway Part One
18th February

The Stage is Set
Daytona International Speedway is where legends are made — and where rookies dream big. The 2022 season kicks off with 26 confirmed drivers, a powerful mix of seasoned contenders and wide-eyed rookies ready to prove themselves under the lights.

Championship Contenders Return
Three of last year’s Championship Four are back and looking for redemption:

- Barbie Stellar (#27, Toyota Gazoo Racing): The fan-favorite, stylish and steely under pressure, wants nothing more than to finish what she started in 2021.

-Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske): After heartbreak last year, Millar enters with a chip on his shoulder and a whole movement behind him (#53Club).

- Stewart Friesen (#40, Toyota Gazoo Racing): Always fast on superspeedways, Friesen brings veteran experience and the hunger for a title.

-With the reigning champion Tommy Bedlam now up in Xfinity, the throne is empty—and the race to claim it starts now.

Rookie Watch – Daytona Debut
Six rookies line up for their first full-time Truck Series season, and Daytona’s high-speed chessboard is the ultimate proving ground:

Jimbo "Sulley" Sullivan (#77, Bedlam Reynold Racing): Charismatic and unpredictable, Sulley is making waves before even turning a lap.

James King (#8, KBM): The California banger racer with a wild style—expect fireworks when the green drops.

Trent Bordeaux (#16, Hattori): The Welshman turned Floridian is quietly confident. Superspeedway skill could surprise.

Corey Heim (#21, Hattori): Arguably the most hyped of the rookies, with Toyota factory backing and a serious résumé.

Parker Retzlaff (#12, Sauber Motorsports): A sharp mind with finesse, making his debut with the newly rebranded Sauber outfit.

Barry Clock-Tower (#34, Venturini): Ford’s underdog with a reputation for patience and late-race power moves.

️ Team Drama & Offseason Shakeups
- Toyota Gazoo Racing is fielding two championship threats—will team orders come into play?

- Sauber Motorsports enters the grid aiming to make a splash and build a new Chevrolet legacy.

Narratives to Watch:
- Can Juice Millar finally get that championship season started right?

- Will Barbie Stellar go from finalist to frontrunner?

- Is Stewart Friesen still as sharp as ever at 38?

- And which rookie rises from the chaos to shine on NASCAR’s biggest stage?

* * * * *

Qualifying Recap

The 2022 NASCAR Truck Series season roared to life with qualifying for the NextEra Energy 250, and Daytona, as always, delivered drama, heartbreak, and a few surprises.

Front Row Lockout – Toyota Strikes First
Pole Position: Barbie Stellar (#27, Toyota Gazoo Racing)
2nd: Stewart Friesen (#40, Toyota Gazoo Racing)

It’s a dream start for Toyota Gazoo Racing as they lock out the front row. Barbie Stellar, last year’s championship finalist, backed up the hype with a blazing lap that showed she means business from Day One. Friesen was just a tick behind, setting up a front-row battle of new teammates who both want redemption in 2022.

- Millar looked calm and quick, setting himself up well to control the second row and avoid early trouble.
- Arthur D’Tea was the surprise of the session, qualifying better than both of his more experienced ThorSport teammates.
- James King, the California rookie, cracked the Top 10 with raw pace—already turning heads.

Rookie Recap – Mixed Bag
James King (#8, Toyota) – 10th
Corey Heim (#21, Toyota) – 13th
Trent Bordeaux (#16, Toyota) – 17th
Parker Retzlaff (#12, Chevrolet) – 19th
Jimbo “Sulley” Sullivan (#77, Chevrolet) – 24th
Barry Clock-Tower (#34, Ford) – 26th

- King led the rookie class with a Top 10, while Heim and Bordeaux held their own in the midfield.
- Sullivan and Valley will have work to do from the back, but Daytona has a way of turning underdogs into heroes.​

 

[Spitfire]

First Year Teams & Rookie Driver's Car Liveries

Brett Moffit's #52 Bedlam Reynolds Racing [Chevrolet Silverado]

Jimbo 'Sully' Sullivan's #77 Bedlam Reynolds Racing [Chevrolet Silverado]

* * *

James King's #8 Kyle Busch Motorsports [Toyota Tundra]

* * *

Barbie Stellar's #27 Toyota Gazoo Racing [Toyota Tundra]

Stewart Friesen's #40 Toyota Gazoo Racing [Toyota Tundra]

* * *

Trent Bordeaux's #16 Hattori Racing [Toyota Tundra]

Corey Heim's #21 Hattori Racing [Toyota Tundra]

* * *

Parker Retzlaff's #12 Sauber Motorsports [Chevrolet Silverado]

* * *

JF Valley's #33 Venturini Motorsports [Ford F-150]

Barry Clock-Tower's #34 Venturini Motorsports [Ford F-150]​

 

[Spitfire]

2022 NASCAR Truck Series: Daytona International Speedway Part Two
18th February | 100 laps (Stage 1–2: 20 laps; Stage 3: 60 laps)

[Stage One Recap 1-20]
Early Fireworks at the Front
- Barbie Stellar launched clean from pole and led the opening laps with Stewart Friesen tucked right behind, but Juice Millar made an early move on lap 4, diving low in Turn 3 to snatch the lead.

- Arthur D’Tea and Zane Smith worked well in the Ford draft, briefly putting three Fords into the Top 5.

- The Toyota vs. Ford battle was intense up front, with Kyle Busch Motorsports drivers like Chandler Smith and James King shuffling in and out of the draft lanes.

Mid-Pack Mayhem – Lap 12 Incident
- Trouble struck when Trent Bordeaux (rookie) got loose in the tri-oval battling Parker Retzlaff, triggering a three-truck stack-up.

- Raphael Lessard, Tyler Ankrum, and Brandon Brown were all collected.

- Lessard and Ankrum were done for the day. Brown continued with damage.

- Caution out. Field reset. Rookie nerves showing.

Restart Chaos – Lap 16 to Finish
- The restart saw Friesen surge back to the lead briefly before being freight-trained by the Ford trio of Millar, D’Tea, and Crafton.

- Ty Majeski made a daring three-wide move with two laps to go in the stage, almost clipping John Hunter Nemechek, but everyone held firm.

- Rookie James King continued to impress, running as high as P6 and keeping his truck clean and smooth.

Stage One Winner: Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske, Ford)
- Millar crossed the line first after defending a late charge from Barbie Stellar and Ty Majeski. He fist-pumped on the radio: “That’s for the 53Club!”

[Stage Two Recap 21-40]

Green Flag – Shuffle at the Front
- Juice Millar led the field to green but lost the lead early as the Toyota Gazoo Racing duo of Friesen and Stellar went to work again.

- Arthur D'Tea continued to shine in the draft, taking the lead briefly on lap 29 with help from Matt Crafton.

- Ty Majeski dropped back early in the stage to conserve fuel and avoid chaos — a move that would pay off later.

Big One – Lap 34: The “Backstretch Banger”
- Disaster struck when Jimbo "Sulley" Sullivan, running mid-pack, attempted to side-draft Parker Retzlaff, lost control, and triggered a massive 9-truck pileup.

- Involved: Sullivan (out) | Retzlaff (superficial damage) | JF Valley (minor damage) | Derek Kraus | Ben Rhodes | Brett Moffitt |

Rookies Rising
- James King avoided the chaos and moved up into the Top 5.

- Corey Heim methodically worked his way through the field and cracked the Top 10 for the first time all race.

- Trent Bordeaux, recovering from his Stage One miscue, showed composure and locked into the lead draft.

Late Push – Strategic Moves
- With three to go in the stage, Barbie Stellar surged to the lead again, but Zane Smith and Juice Millar drafted around her coming to the white flag.

- Behind them, Friesen blocked aggressively, nearly sending Chandler Smith into the wall.

Stage Two Winner: Zane Smith (#70, Team Red Bull, Ford)
- Zane flexed late-stage speed and strategy, scoring big stage points for Team Red Bull and keeping Ford’s strong Daytona record alive.

[Stage Three Recap 41-100]

Lap 56 – “The Friesen Flip”
- Stewart Friesen, running 4th, attempted to block a surging Chandler Smith and was tagged in the right rear.

- The result? A violent spin across the front stretch that collected: Friesen (out) | Matt Crafton (out) | Arthur D’Tea (major damage) | John Hunter Nemechek (minor damage)

- Three former stage finishers out. Friesen’s championship hopes take an early-season blow.

Lap 68 – “Big One: Rookie Roulette”
- On a late restart, Trent Bordeaux made an ambitious move under Corey Heim, but the #21 Toyota came down slightly — they touched, and all hell broke loose.

- Caught up: Bordeaux (out) | Corey Heim (out) | Chandler Smith (out) | James King (continued with slight damage) | Zane Smith (heavy damage, limped to pit)

- Three rookies gone in one incident. King the lone survivor among the frontrunning rookies.

Lap 85 – “Leaders Collide”
- Juice Millar and Barbie Stellar, who had traded the lead repeatedly, were battling hard when Millar moved up the track slightly in Turn 1.

- Stellar was already there. Contact. Spin. Smoke. Stellar slammed the wall and was done. Millar managed to keep it rolling but with a wounded front splitter. The two favorites — knocked out of serious contention.

The Unexpected Front-Runners
- With chaos wiping out nearly every major name, the new Top 5 on lap 90 looked like this:

1) James King (R) (#8, KBM)
2) Brandon Brown (#2, GMS)
3) Brett Moffitt (#52, BRR)
4) Matt DiBenedetto (#83, Penske)
5) JF Valley (R) (#33, Venturini)

Final Restart – 3 to Go
- King got a great launch but was quickly challenged by Moffitt, who got a push from DiBenedetto. Valley went high to avoid a block, nearly clipping the wall.

- Coming to the white flag, Brandon Brown got loose and tagged DiBenedetto, sending both trucks sideways — but no caution.

Race Winner: James King (#8, Kyle Busch Motorsports, Toyota)
- The rookie from California survived the chaos, avoided every wreck, and showed nerves of steel to win on debut at Daytona!
He becomes the first rookie to win the NextEra Energy 250 since Kaz Grala in 2017.

* * * *

James King (R) – Winner (#8, Kyle Busch Motorsports, Toyota)
“I can’t even describe it. First race, first win — at Daytona. This is what you dream about as a kid. Huge thanks to everyone at KBM, and to Toyota for trusting a rookie like me. We kept our nose clean, missed the wrecks, and when it was time to go, we went. This is just the beginning.”

Brett Moffitt – 2nd Place (#52, Bedlam Reynold Racing, Chevrolet)
“That was survival of the fittest. We had good speed, but it was about keeping the truck straight and smart decisions. Hats off to James — kid drove like a veteran. For us, P2 is a great start to the season. BRR brought a fast Chevy and we’ll keep building from here.”

JF Valley (R) – 3rd Place (#33, Venturini Motorsports, Ford)
“This is surreal. I just wanted to finish all the laps and learn, and somehow we’re up here on the podium. The truck was great, the spotter was perfect, and the team never gave up. Big respect to everyone out there — and to the Valley fans back home, this one’s for you!”

Brandon Brown – 4th Place (#2, GMS Racing, Chevrolet)
“We needed that. After the last year we had, just to be in the conversation again is awesome. We dodged wrecks, stayed aggressive when it mattered, and it paid off. Congrats to King — heck of a debut. And shoutout to GMS for the horsepower.”

Parker Retzlaff (R) – 5th Place (#12, Sauber Motorsports, Chevrolet)
“What a ride. Daytona is chaos, and we came out of it with a Top 5 in our first run with Sauber. I’m proud of how we executed — stayed patient, picked our spots, and got out of the carnage with a clean truck. Big-time confidence boost for the rest of the season.”​

 

[Spitfire]

2022 NASCAR Truck Series: Daytona International Speedway Part Three
18th February

Juice Millar – 10th Place (#53, Team Penske, Ford)
“That wasn’t racing — that was a demolition derby at 190 miles an hour. I mean, I get it — it's Daytona — but man, that was brutal. We had a truck capable of winning, we won Stage One, led laps, and then just got shoved around like it was short track night at a county fair “Finishing 10th in that mess feels like surviving a bar fight, not a race. It’s frustrating, for sure. I just hope when we roll into Xfinity for my first race of the year, it’s a little more... professional. Cleaner. Because this? This was chaos.”

Millar now turns focus to the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. 300 — his Xfinity Series season opener with Team Penske’s #38 Ford. Expectations will be high, but Millar’s looking for redemption, not retaliation.​

Juice Millar's #38 Team Penske [Ford Mustang]

+ + + +

Here’s the post-race reaction from two disappointed rookies — Trent Bordeaux and Jimbo “Sulley” Sullivan — after a rough introduction to the NASCAR Truck Series at Daytona:

Trent Bordeaux (R) – 23rd Place (#16, Hattori Racing, Toyota)
“Not how I wanted to start this journey. I felt good early on — the truck had speed, the spotter was on point — but I got a bit too aggressive mid-pack trying to work my way up. It’s on me. I misjudged the run on Heim and that ended both our days. Hard lesson, but I’ll learn from it. We’ll regroup and come back stronger next race.”

Jimbo “Sulley” Sullivan (R) – 24th Place (#77, Bedlam Reynold Racing, Chevrolet)
“Honestly? Gutted. First start, Daytona, all the lights and cameras, and I’m the one who sparks the Big One? That’s not what you want your debut to be remembered for. I just lost it trying to side-draft and it snowballed fast. I’ve watched this race my whole life, and now I’m in it, wrecking half the field. Gotta own it and be better.”

Both drivers are expected to bounce back, with team support behind them — but it's a tough reminder that at Daytona, even rookies can unintentionally shape the whole race.

+ + + +

Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Daytona Debut Ends in Disappointment

It was supposed to be a dream debut. Barbie Stellar and Stewart Friesen qualified 1st and 2nd respectively, locking out the front row and putting Toyota Gazoo Racing on the map in their very first race since taking over from Young’s Motorsports. But Daytona had other plans.

Barbie Stellar – DNF (#27 Toyota Gazoo Racing)
“We were fast. That’s what hurts. We were right where we needed to be all night, and then Juice (Millar) and I got together — racing hard, sure, but I didn’t expect that. It sucks. We had a truck that could’ve won. Not the start we wanted for Toyota Gazoo, but we’ll bounce back.”

Stewart Friesen – DNF (#40 Toyota Gazoo Racing)
“Honestly, it was just too aggressive too early. I went for a block and got tagged — that’s on me. I wanted to put this team on the podium in our first race, but instead I put us on the hauler early. We’ve got the speed though, and that’s something to build on.”

Despite the early exit, there are positives for the team: qualifying pace, early race control, and the clear chemistry between Stellar and Friesen. But for Toyota Gazoo Racing, the debut will be remembered more for what could have been.

+ + + +

Kyle Busch – Owner, Kyle Busch Motorsports
“Look, I’ve got all the respect in the world for what Toyota’s trying to do with Gazoo — they took over Young’s and they’re calling it the new factory face. Great. But at the end of the day, it’s KBM that still delivers.”

“We don’t need to rebrand or put on a new coat of paint — we develop talent, we build fast trucks, and we win. James King just proved that. Rookie, debut race, Victory Lane at Daytona. That’s what KBM does.”

“I hope Gazoo gets it together — Toyota needs strong trucks across the board. But don’t forget who’s carried that banner all these years. It’s still our shop setting the bar.”

With James King’s debut win and solid showings from Nemechek and Chandler Smith before their respective issues, it’s clear KBM remains Toyota’s strongest force, no matter how much branding shifts elsewhere.

+ + + +

Here’s what Tommy Bedlam, co-owner of Bedlam Reynolds Racing, had to say after the team’s debut in the Truck Series — one that saw Brett Moffitt finish 2nd and rookie Jimbo “Sulley” Sullivan involved in a tough wreck:

Tommy Bedlam – Co-owner, Bedlam Reynolds Racing
“For our first race as a team? I’ll take P2 any day. Brett drove the wheels off that truck and gave us a shot at winning Daytona on debut. That’s a statement. This program was built to compete right away — and we showed that today.”

“As for Sulley… look, it’s Daytona. You throw a rookie into that draft and ask them to make split-second calls at 190 — it’s a pressure cooker. He made a mistake, yeah, but that’s how you learn. I’ve been there. The important thing is that he owns it, bounces back, and keeps grinding. We believe in him.”

“This team has heart. And trust me — this is only the beginning.”

With one truck nearly winning and the other causing the biggest wreck of the night, Bedlam Reynolds Racing had both extremes in their debut outing — but Tommy’s leadership and long-term vision are clearly locked in.

+ + + +

Arthur D’Tea – Finished 12th (#51, ThorSport Racing, Ford)
“Honestly? I expected more. We were running up front, had a great truck, and then got caught in the mess that always seems to come in Stage Three. No excuses though — I can do a lot better.”

“Coming off that P2 at the Daytona 24 Hour, I had momentum, confidence, and belief in my decision to come to NASCAR. And I still do. I left other offers behind because I know I belong here, in this garage, on these ovals, chasing these trophies.”

“You’re gonna see why I made that choice real soon. This is just the beginning — and I’m not here to ride around in 12th.”​

+ + + +

2022 Championship Standings​

Position​	Driver​	Truck #​	Team​	Manufacturer​	Points​
1​	James King (R)​	#8​	Kyle Busch Motorsports​	Toyota​	58​
2​	Juice Millar​	#53​	Team Penske​	Ford​	53​
3​	Brett Moffitt​	#52​	Bedlam Reynold Racing​	Chevrolet​	46​
4​	Barbie Stellar​	#27​	Toyota Gazoo Racing​	Toyota​	45​
5​	JF Valley​	#33​	Venturini Motorsports​	Ford​	43​
6​	Ty Majeski​	#23​	GMS Racing​	Chevrolet​	43​
7​	Zane Smith​	#70​	Team Red Bull​	Ford​	41​
8​	Brandon Brown​	#2​	GMS Racing​	Chevrolet​	40​
9​	Parker Retzlaff (R)​	#12​	Sauber Motorsports​	Chevrolet​	39​
10​	Matt DiBenedetto​	#83​	Team Penske​	Ford​	38​
11​	Derek Kraus​	#19​	McAnally-Hilgemann​	Chevrolet​	37​
12​	John Hunter Nemechek​	#4​	Kyle Busch Motorsports​	Toyota​	37​
13​	Arthur D'Tea​	#51​	ThorSport Racing​	Ford​	34​
14​	Ben Rhodes​	#99​	ThorSport Racing​	Ford​	33​
15​	Stewart Friesen​	#40​	Toyota Gazoo Racing​	Toyota​	33​
16​	Todd Gilliland​	#38​	Front Row Motorsports​	Ford​	32​
17​	Chandler Smith​	#18​	Kyle Busch Motorsports​	Toyota​	32​
18​	Carson Hocevar​	#00​	Front Row Motorsports​	Ford​	31​
19​	Barry Clock-Tower (R)​	#34​	Venturini Motorsports​	Ford​	30​
20​	Corey Heim (R)​	#21​	Hattori Racing​	Toyota​	30​
21​	Grant Enfinger​	#71​	Team Red Bull​	Ford​	29​
22​	Matt Crafton​	#88​	ThorSport Racing​	Ford​	29​
23​	Trent Bordeaux (R)​	#16​	Hattori Racing​	Toyota​	26​
24​	Jimbo "Sulley" Sullivan (R)​	#77​	Bedlam Reynold Racing​	Chevrolet​	20​
25​	Tyler Ankrum​	#45​	GMS Racing​	Chevrolet​	19​
26​	Raphael Lessard​	#25​	Rackley W.A.R. ​	Chevrolet​	18​

 

[Spitfire]

2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series: Daytona International Speedway Part Four
19th February

The 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series roars back into action at Daytona — the world center of racing — with Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. 300 marking the start of what promises to be one of the most exciting seasons in years.

Key Storylines

Rookies in the Spotlight
- Tommy Bedlam in the #22 Team Penske Ford (full season debut)
- Kevin Magnussen, the former F1 driver, in the #11 Kaulig Racing Chevy
- Christian Eckes, stepping up with JR Motorsports in the #8
- Austin Hill making his full-time Xfinity debut with RCR
- Juice Millar, jumping in the #38 Ford for the first race of a part time schedule.

The Ford Alliance Reloads
With Tommy Bedlam and Juice Millar representing Team Penske at Daytona, the Blue Oval looks to establish early dominance. Bedlam’s move from Trucks to Xfinity has created major buzz, and Millar’s Daytona cameo has fans and rivals talking — especially after his offseason jabs at Chevy.

Kaulig & JR Motorsports Heavy Hitters
A.J. Allmendinger and Noah Gragson return as proven Daytona threats, while Ty Gibbs and Sammy Smith bring the muscle for Joe Gibbs Racing.

* * * * *

Qualifying Recap

Pole Position: Noah Gragson (#9, JR Motorsports) – Laid down a blazing lap in the draft pack to clinch the pole with confidence and Daytona flair.

2nd Place: Ty Gibbs (#54, Joe Gibbs Racing) – Proved his superspeedway form is no fluke, just a hair behind Gragson.

Other Notables:
- Christian Eckes (R) (#8) qualified mid-pack — solid but room to move forward.

- Austin Hill (R) (#21) narrowly missed the Top 15, but RCR cars have historically raced better than they qualify at Daytona.

- Natalie Decker (#33) and Jesse Iwuji (#31) will start from the rear after inspection issues.

+ + + +

Noah Gragson – Pole Sitter, #9 JR Motorsports
“We’re starting where we wanna be — up front. Daytona’s a chess game, but I like to race aggressive and I’ve got the team to back it up. We’ve been knocking on the door here for a while, and I think this year we kick it in. It’s go time.”

Tommy Bedlam (R) – #22 Team Penske
“It’s surreal, honestly. First full season Xfinity start, and we’re starting sixth at Daytona in a Penske Ford — that’s a dream. I’m not here to tiptoe though. This car’s fast, and I’ve got nothing to lose. Juice and I are gonna be pushing for Ford all race long. If we keep our heads cool, don’t be shocked to see us up front at the checkers.”

Kevin Magnussen (R) – #11 Kaulig Racing
“Daytona is unlike anything I’ve done before — you feel the energy the second you roll out. The Kaulig guys gave me a rocket ship, and I’m picking up the draft racing fast. I want to prove I belong here in stock cars. Let’s make some noise.”

Juice Millar – #38 Team Penske
“You know what they say — one race, one shot. This car is mean, this team is elite, and I’ve got a chip on my shoulder the size of Florida. They called me loud last year. Wait till they see what happens when I go quiet and just drive. The 38’s gonna eat.”
​

 

[Spitfire]

Rookie Driver's Car Liveries

Christian Eckes' #8 JR Motorsports [Chevrolet Camaro]

* * *

Kevin Magnussen's #18 Kaulig Racing [Chevrolet Camaro]

* * *

Austin Hill's #21 Richard Childress Racing [Chevrolet Camaro]

* * *

Tommy Bedlam's #22 Team Penske [Ford Mustang]​

 

[Spitfire]

2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series: Daytona International Speedway Part Five
19th February | 120 laps (Stage 1–2: 30 laps; Stage 3: 60 laps)

[Stage One Recap 1-30]

Opening Laps
- Noah Gragson got a clean launch from pole but was immediately challenged by Ty Gibbs and Allmendinger as the inside lane showed speed early.

- The Penske duo — Tommy Bedlam (#22) and Juice Millar (#38) — hooked up early and surged forward in a freight train on the outside, turning heads as they cracked the Top 5 by Lap 6.

Lap 11 – First Big Scare
- Bayley Currey (#4) got loose off Turn 2, clipped the apron and wobbled, but managed to save it. Mid-pack drivers scrambled to avoid a pile-up.

- Natalie Decker had to hit pit road early for a loose wheel. She’d fall a lap down.

Lap 18 – First Caution (Debris)
- A piece of front valence came off Brennan Poole’s #6, prompting the first caution of the race. Most front-runners stayed out, but some mid-pack teams took the opportunity to top off fuel.

Lap 22 Restart – Penske Power Surge
- Juice Millar, working with Tommy Bedlam, drafted their way to the front. Millar led Lap 23 and Lap 24 — his first laps led in Xfinity competition.

- Tommy Bedlam looked steady and strategic, staying patient behind the #38 and managing airflow expertly for a rookie.

Stage One Finish – Lap 30
- In the closing laps, the high line built momentum with Gragson, Ty Gibbs, and Allmendinger pushing back. But it was a three-wide drag race at the line with Millar crossing the white first.

[Stage Two Recap 31-60]

Lap 31 Restart – Penske Still in Control
- Juice Millar led the field back to green, with Tommy Bedlam right behind him. The two Penske Fords controlled the outside lane while Ty Gibbs and Noah Gragson fought hard on the bottom.

- Kevin Magnussen started becoming a factor — the Kaulig rookie went middle lane three-wide and held it together like a Daytona veteran.

Lap 38 – Big Shuffle in the Pack
- JR Motorsports cars worked together, with Sam Mayer and Justin Allgaier linking up to bring the inside line back into play.

- Bedlam made a bold crossover move to the bottom, taking the lead on Lap 39, his first career lead in Xfinity. The crowd roared as the rookie showed serious racecraft.

Lap 44 – Second Caution (Multi-Car Incident)
- Trouble in Turn 3, Jeb Burton (#27) got turned by Brennan Poole (#6) after a late block attempt. The contact triggered a chain reaction involving Bayley Currey, Joey Gase, and Jesse Iwuji.

- All drivers were okay, but Jeb Burton and Gase were done for the day.

- Pit stops shuffled the order. Tommy Bedlam retained the lead off pit road. Millar lost a few spots with a slow left rear tire change.

Lap 49 Restart – Rookie Madness
- Bedlam restarted P1, but Kevin Magnussen got a huge push from A.J. Allmendinger and took the lead for two laps before falling back.

- Austin Hill cracked the top 10 for the first time, showing off his superspeedway strength.

Final 5 Laps of Stage 2 – Chess Match
- Three-wide racing broke out again. Gragson, Ty Gibbs, and Allmendinger began slicing forward.

- Juice Millar made a brave move back to the top lane with Bedlam, trying to recreate their Stage 1 success — only this time Bedlam sling-shotting around Juice to pick up the stage win.

[Stage Three Recap 61-120]

Lap 61 Restart – Allmendinger Jumps Out Front
- A.J. Allmendinger launched to the lead off the restart, with Magnussen, Ty Gibbs, and Gragson battling two and three-wide behind him.

- Tommy Bedlam, now back in 4th, bided his time — showing maturity well beyond a rookie’s first full-season start.

Lap 74 – The Big One
- Everything changed when Brandon Jones (#18) got squeezed in the tri-oval, sending him spinning across the field.

- The “Big One” collected: | Bayley Currey | Ryan Sieg | Natalie Decker | Jeremy Clements | Brennan Poole

- And nearly Juice Millar, who barely squeaked through with right-side damage.

- Red Flag for cleanup. Crew chiefs recalculated fuel, tire wear, and restart positioning. Tension rising.

Lap 81 Restart – Bedlam Begins His Charge
- With the field thinned and nerves tighter, Tommy Bedlam began moving forward, drafted with Magnussen on the outside line. Cleared Allmendinger on Lap 85. Controlled the race with clean air and perfect blocks.

- Meanwhile, Ty Gibbs, Gragson, and a surprisingly strong Christian Eckes mounted their late pushes.

Lap 105 – Final Caution: Juice Goes Around
- Battling hard inside the top 10, Juice Millar tried a daring middle-lane move but was clipped by Kaz Grala off Turn 2.

- The #38 spun harmlessly to the infield — no contact — but lost his shot at the win.

Lap 110 Restart – 10 to Go: The Duel Begins - Bedlam vs. Gragson vs. Gibbs.

- They traded the lead six times in the final 10 laps. Bedlam’s Penske Ford looked unstoppable in clean air but was vulnerable without help.

Final Lap – Rookie Becomes a Winner
- On the white flag lap, Ty Gibbs faked high, dove low — but Bedlam blocked clean.

- Gragson got a push from Allmendinger down the backstretch but couldn’t clear the #22.

- Tommy Bedlam held firm, took the bottom through 3 and 4, and dragged the field to the checkered flag, winning by just 0.027 seconds over Ty Gibbs in a Daytona thriller.

* * * *

Fast Stats:
Tommy Bedlam becomes the first driver since Tyler Reddick in 2018 to win their full-season debut in Xfinity.

Team Penske sweeps both stages and the checkered flag.

All 4 rookies finished in the top 10 — a strong start to 2022.


Tommy Bedlam (R) - Winner (#22, Team Penske)
“You dream about moments like this growing up. To come into my first full season in Xfinity, at a place like Daytona, and walk away with the win? It’s surreal, man. There’s no better way to make a statement.”

“Huge thanks to Team Penske. They put me in a rocket today. Juice and I worked great together early on, and when it came time to race, this #22 car was just hooked up. Everyone was smart, aggressive, but clean — and I just tried to be there when it counted.”

“This isn’t just a win — it’s a message. We’re here, we’re ready, and we’re not backing down. First race, first W. Let’s keep this thing rolling.”


Ty Gibbs – Finished 2nd
“Look, anytime someone wins their debut race, you gotta give ‘em credit. Tommy raced smart. Didn’t panic, didn’t make a mistake. He earned that one.”

“I threw everything I had at him on that last lap — I mean everything. He just blocked it clean. Not many rookies do that. Not many vets do either.”

“We’ll get him next time. But today? He deserves that moment.”

Noah Gragson – Finished 3rd
“Honestly? The kid’s got guts. I’ve raced a lot of people at Daytona, and Tommy handled it like he’s been doing this for years.”

“You could see he was learning in Stage One, studying us. Then he just went out there and made all the right moves. Respect.”

“It stings to come up short, but if you’re gonna get beat, it better be by someone who earned it — and Bedlam earned it.”

A.J. Allmendinger – Finished 4th
“The way he positioned himself late in the race — textbook Penske. But with his own twist. He’s got patience, poise, and that little bit of edge you need to win these.”

“I’ve seen rookies fold under pressure at this place. He didn’t. That speaks volumes.”

“He just sent a message to the entire field. I hope he’s ready — because after this? He’s no longer the hunter. He’s the hunted.”​

 

[Tommy Bedlam]

Tommy Bedlam: "Oh my God. I can't believe this, seriously. To make the jump to the Xfinity Series and come out here and get a win at Daytona is just incredible. Huge thanks to the guys in the shop, to the crew. The Team Penske Ford was as fast as Xfinity 5G all day. I think I said that right. Juice was awesome out there. We drafted together great. He knew when to push, when to fall back, all of it. Getting to build on a win after the first race of the season is a huge deal. I can't wait to see what's next for us."

 

[Spitfire]

2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series: Daytona International Speedway Part Six

"This Year, I’m Not Just Learning" – Kevin Magnussen Sets the Tone with Daytona Top-5
In a race where chaos is guaranteed and survival is an achievement, Kevin Magnussen didn’t just survive — he delivered. The former Formula 1 driver and second-year NASCAR talent crossed the line fifth in the Xfinity Series season opener, sending a clear message to the field: he’s not here for a tourist visa anymore.

“Finishing fifth here at Daytona is a great way to kick off the year,” Magnussen said from pit road, helmet still tucked under his arm, face glowing with sweat and focus. “Last season in the Truck Series was a real education — every race felt like a new kind of challenge. I learned a lot about racecraft in America, about trusting the draft, and how unpredictable these races can be.”

In 2021, Magnussen’s rookie Truck Series campaign with GMS Racing was a year of adaptation. While the results were modest, they came with flashes of brilliance: bold passes, fearless three-wide moves, and a consistent presence in the top half of the field. This year, now with Kaulig Racing and piloting the #11 Chevrolet, K-Mag’s not content with learning — he’s chasing trophies.

“This year’s different,” he said with quiet confidence. “I’m not here just to learn anymore. I want to be a threat every week. I want to be in the playoffs. I want to win.”

Magnussen ran a smart, patient race at Daytona. While others got swept up in wrecks or overplayed their hands in the draft, he kept the #11 clean and in contention. He worked with teammate A.J. Allmendinger, found air when he needed it, and made a critical move into the top 5 during the final green-flag run.

“The Kaulig car was excellent today,” Magnussen said. “It handled really well in traffic. I owe a lot to the guys on the box and in the garage — they gave me a car I could really race with.”

And race he did. Holding off a hungry pack that included Ty Gibbs, Noah Gragson, and Tommy Bedlam, Magnussen earned not just points, but respect.

A New Contender in the Making?
What’s next for the Danish driver turned oval grinder?

“I think we’re just scratching the surface,” he said. “Daytona is a wild card, but it’s also a statement. We’re building momentum — and I want to turn that into wins.”

With a stacked rookie class that includes Tommy Bedlam, Christian Eckes, and Austin Hill, Magnussen will have to fight for every inch — but if Daytona is any indicator, he’s more than ready.

+ + + +

Eckes & Hill Reflect After Daytona Debuts
Two more Xfinity rookies added their names to the storyline in Daytona: Christian Eckes, driving the #8 for JR Motorsports, and Austin Hill, wheeling the #21 for Richard Childress Racing. Both walked away with top-10 finishes and a heavy dose of momentum — but neither was fully satisfied.

Christian Eckes (P6 – JR Motorsports):
“It’s a solid start, no doubt. You always want to come out of Daytona in one piece and in the top 10, so we checked both boxes,” said Eckes, standing beside the blue-and-white #8 JR Motorsports Chevy. “But I feel like we had a shot to be higher up. I got shuffled late and just ran out of help.”

Eckes, a former ARCA champion and Truck Series winner, ran a clean, consistent race — staying out of trouble and making smart drafting decisions. He spent most of the final stage hovering between 6th and 12th, always within striking distance but never quite in the prime lane when the lead group surged.

“This team has a winning pedigree,” he continued. “So even though I’m happy with the finish, I know we’re capable of running up front and winning races. The chemistry is there. We just need to keep building on it.”

Austin Hill (P10 – Richard Childress Racing):
“Top 10 at Daytona is never a bad thing, but we definitely had more in the tank,” Hill said after climbing out of the #21 Chevrolet. “There were a few moments late in the race where I thought we were gonna push toward the top five, but it just didn’t materialize.”

Hill, no stranger to superspeedway success after multiple Truck Series wins at places like Daytona and Talladega, ran quietly through the early stages before turning up the heat in the final 15 laps. He was one of the few rookies who aggressively jumped lanes looking to gain ground, but he lacked consistent drafting partners late in the race.

“It’s a different animal here in Xfinity. The runs come quicker, the cars move around more, and the competition is just stacked. But I’m confident. RCR brought a great car, and we’ll come back swinging at Auto Club.”

+ + + +

Juice Millar Talks Double Duty and Missed Opportunities
It was a weekend of highs and lows for Juice Millar, the fiery young Ford driver who ran double duty at Daytona. After winning Stage One in his one-off Xfinity Series drive with Team Penske in the #38 and finishing 10th in the Truck Series opener in the #53, Juice walked away from the weekend with mixed emotions.

“We came here to win both. That was the goal,” Juice said, visibly frustrated but composed after climbing out of the #38. “Stage One felt amazing — the car was so hooked up in the draft. But from there, it just didn’t play out the way we needed it to.”

Millar’s Xfinity race looked promising early on. He and teammate Tommy Bedlam dominated the opening stage, with Millar leading laps and setting the tone. But after pit cycle issues and getting caught in the wrong draft lines late in the race — plus a spin in Stage 3 after a risky move — he slipped back to finish a disappointing 22nd.

“The Xfinity field is no joke. You’ve got Cup talent, seasoned veterans, and hungry rookies. I thought we had a car capable of a top 5 or even the win — we just didn’t execute when it counted.”

The weekend wasn’t a total loss. In the Truck Series, Millar battled up front for much of the race in the #53 Ford, ultimately finishing 10th and collecting solid points.

“The Truck race was tough too. You finish 10th and it still feels like a letdown because we had speed. We were right there, but couldn’t get the push we needed at the end. I’ll take the top 10, but I wanted more.”

Still, Juice made it clear that his focus remains on raising his game.

“Look — I’m proud of the effort. Double duty at Daytona is no small thing. But I’m not here to be 'pretty good'. I’m here to win races, make statements, and chase titles. We’ll come back stronger.”

Final Results for Juice Millar – Daytona Weekend:
- Xfinity Series: P22 – #38 Team Penske (Won Stage 1)
- Truck Series: P10 – #53 Team Penske

Millar now shifts his focus fully back to the Truck Series championship grind, where expectations are sky-high after back-to-back near-title seasons.

+ + + +

2022 Championship Standings
​

Position​	Drivver​	Truck #​	Team​	Points​
1​	Tommy Bedlam (R)​	#22​	Team Penske​	67​
2​	Ty Gibbs​	#54​	Joe Gibbs Racing​	62​
3​	Noah Gragson​	#9​	JR Motorsports​	57​
4​	A.J. Allmendinger​	#16​	Kaulig Racing​	55​
5​	Kevin Magnussen (R)​	#11​	Kaulig Racing​	52​
6​	Cole Custer​	#00​	Stewart-Haas Racing​	45​
7​	Sam Mayer​	#1​	JR Motorsports​	40​
8​	Christian Eckes (R)​	#8​	JR Motorsports​	39​
9​	Kaz Grala​	#48​	Big Machine Racing​	37​
10​	Austin Hill (R)​	#21​	Richard Childress Racing​	37​
11​	Justin Allgaier​	#7​	JR Motorsports​	33​
12​	Daniel Hemric​	#2​	Richard Childress Racing​	32​
13​	Josh Williams​	#36​	DGM Racing​	31​
14​	Matt Mills​	#5​	B.J. McLeod Motorsports​	30​
15​	Landon Cassill​	#10​	Kaulig Racing​	29​
16​	Anthony Alfredo​	#23​	Our Motorsports​	28​
17​	Alex Labbé​	#92​	DGM Racing​	27​
18​	Brandon Jones​	#18​	Joe Gibbs Racing​	27​
19​	Jesse Iwuji​	#31​	Jesse Iwuji Motorsports​	26​
20​	Sammy Smith​	#18​	Joe Gibbs Racing​	24​
21​	Rajah Caruth​	#44​	Alpha Prime Racing​	23​
22​	J.J. Yeley​	#66​	MBM Motorsports​	21​
23​	Riley Herbst​	#98​	Stewart-Haas Racing​	20​
24​	Brennan Poole​	#6​	JD Motorsports​	19​
25​	Jeremy Clements​	#51​	Jeremy Clements Racing​	18​
26​	Ryan Sieg​	#39​	RSS Racing​	17​
27​	Bayley Currey​	#4​	JD Motorsports​	16​
28​	Natalie Decker​	#33​	Reaume Brothers Racing​	15​
29​	Jeb Burton​	#27​	Our Motorsports​	14​
30​	Joey Gase​	#35​	Emerling-Gase Motorsports​	13​

 

[Spitfire]

Marco Andretti Tests Team Red Bull’s 2022 Honda Ridgeline Prototype at Daytona
During the Daytona 500 weekend, Marco Andretti made a surprise appearance behind the wheel of Team Red Bull’s prototype 2022-spec Honda Ridgeline — a bold move signaling the team’s shift toward full Honda power in 2023.

The test took place on the oval under controlled conditions, with Andretti logging laps in the sleek, aggressive new design featuring updated aero and a revised powertrain. While not part of the official Truck Series weekend, the run caught the attention of teams and media alike.

Key Notes
- The test confirms Team Red Bull’s intent to switch from Ford to Honda in 2023, aligning with Honda’s growing interest in NASCAR.

- Andretti, a trusted Honda driver from his IndyCar days, was chosen for his technical feedback and brand familiarity.

- Sources say the Ridgeline “felt stable in the draft” and “handled clean air beautifully.”

- No word yet on whether Andretti will race in NASCAR, but the sight of a Honda-badged truck turning laps at Daytona may just be a sign of big things to come — both for Red Bull and for Honda’s NASCAR ambitions.

Test Report – Daytona Oval (Controlled Session)
Driver: Marco Andretti
Truck: Team Red Bull 2022 Honda Ridgeline (Prototype)
Track: Daytona International Speedway – Oval
Conditions: Cool, overcast, 63°F, low wind
Session Type: Private test, 30-lap solo and draft simulation run
Chassis Notes: Spec frame adapted from 2021 Ford model with Red Bull’s in-house aero tweaks and Honda engine mapping

Marco Andretti’s Comments:
“It’s not just fast — it’s balanced. You can feel the Honda tech in the throttle response and the way it rotates through 3 and 4. If this is where Red Bull is going for 2023, they’re going to be a problem. I’d love to see this thing in a real draft pack at Talladega.”

+ + + +

Red Bull Confirms Atlanta Test for Honda Ridgeline Prototype
Red Bull Racing has officially announced that Zane Smith and Grant Enfinger will take part in the next development test of their 2022-spec Honda Ridgeline NASCAR Truck during the Atlanta Motor Speedway weekend.

Date: During Truck Series practice sessions at Atlanta
Truck: Honda Ridgeline Prototype (2022 spec)

Drivers:
Marco Andretti (Lead development driver)
Zane Smith (Team Red Bull)
Grant Enfinger (Team Red Bull)

Red Bull Team Statement:
“We’re excited to continue development of the Honda Ridgeline project with both our full-time drivers and Marco Andretti. Atlanta offers a different challenge compared to Daytona, and we’re eager to see how the truck performs on an intermediate-style oval.”

This test will give engineers critical data on corner stability, tire wear, and race-trim balance, further preparing Red Bull for their full Honda transition in 2023. With comparisons between the Honda Ridgeline and the two current Ford F-150s being used by the team.
​

 

[Spitfire]

Team Penske Confirms Juice Millar Will Race the #38 at Auto Club
Team Penske has confirmed that Juice Millar will once again pilot the #38 Ford Mustang in the Xfinity Series next weekend at Auto Club Speedway, marking his second consecutive start in the series.

With no Truck Series race scheduled that weekend, Penske team boss Roger Miles says this was an easy decision.

“Juice showed serious pace at Daytona,” Miles said. “He won Stage One, led laps, and proved he can hang with the best in Xfinity. Auto Club will give him another shot to develop and show what he can do over a full race run without Truck obligations.”

Millar, who is running full-time in the Truck Series this season, is expected to use the Xfinity outings as a developmental opportunity — but his Daytona debut showed he might be capable of much more.

“We know he wanted a better finish than 22nd at Daytona,” Miles added. “But the speed was there. These Xfinity starts are meant to challenge him — and if the results come, even better.”

Penske also hinted that other Truck Series regulars may appear in the Xfinity field at Auto Club, taking advantage of the off-week in the lower tier.

Auto Club’s high-speed, multi-lane surface offers a very different challenge than Daytona, and could suit aggressive drivers like Millar looking to bounce back.

* * * * * *

Ford Performance Confirms Five-Driver Lineup for Auto Club Xfinity Race
In a bold move to maximize track time and showcase depth in its development pipeline, Ford Performance has announced that five Ford-powered Truck Series drivers will compete in the upcoming Xfinity Series race at Auto Club Speedway.

With no Truck Series event on the calendar, the manufacturer is taking advantage of the gap to give its drivers seat time in Xfinity equipment — and the list includes some of Ford’s most promising young talent:

Ford Performance Statement:
“This is about sharpening tools, giving our drivers experience on bigger platforms, and putting Ford power at the front of the field,” said a Ford Performance spokesperson. “Each of these drivers represents a different part of our future, and Auto Club will be another proving ground.”

Spotlight:
- Juice Millar returns after leading laps and winning Stage One at Daytona.

- Matt DiBenedetto, a veteran voice, adds stability to Penske’s expanded lineup.

- Carson Hocevar makes his first Xfinity appearance of the year, bringing his aggressive style to the wide lanes of Fontana.

- Arthur D'Tea continues his development, having raced three road courses previously in Xfinity.

- Barry Clock-Tower, one of the more eccentric personalities in the Truck garage, is turning heads with solid pace and bold racecraft.​

 

[Tommy Bedlam]

"So excited to have Juice and Matt in the race at Auto Club. I know it's not a drafting track like Daytona, but when I can get out there with more Penske drivers, I feel like it's a good thing. There's more information to share during practice, during the race, the whole weekend really. Let's see if we can get Mr. Penske three cars in the top five."

 

[Spitfire]

WRC3 Rally Sweden - (Day One | Shakedown) 24th February

After a thrilling season opener in Monte Carlo, the WRC3 field heads north for the only full-snow event on the calendar—Rally Sweden. Held in the icy forests around Umeå, this rally features high-speed snow stages, snowbanks instead of barriers, and the most extreme winter driving conditions in the championship. This year’s WRC3 Sweden grid includes a mix of rally veterans, returning JWRC stars, and new faces, all battling for class honors in Rally3 machinery. Before we continue, we will first look back at what took place in Monte Carlo which is important considering drivers are only allowed to enter five rallies, with only the top four pointing scoring one counting towards the WRC3 Championship.

+ + + + + + + + + + + +

Rally Monte-Carlo Flashback [20–23 January 2022]

There was only four entries into the Monte-Carlo Rally in the WRC3 class, so if drivers were able to finish the grueling rally there would be a number of points up for grabs with a smaller field especially with each stage win continuing to be worth a bonus point in the lower categories (due to a limit of 12 stages). The entries for the rally were:

- Sami Pajari (Finland)
- Jan Černý (Czech Republic)
- Enrico Brazzoli (Italy)
- Zoltán László (Hungary)

​

Pajari dominated the WRC3 class with seven stage wins and a commanding almost 90 second lead over his closet rival at the close of the rally, meaning he walks away with an impressive 32 point haul, that will most likely feature as one of his top scoring rallies for the championship.

Sami Pajari:
"Monte Carlo is always unpredictable, and this one was no different. We took some risks early, stayed calm when the ice caught us out, and finished strong. Great way to open the season."

+ + + + + + + + + + + +

WRC3 Rally Sweden Entry List:
- Jon Armstrong (Northern Ireland)
- Lauri Joona (Finland)
- Butt Hertz (USA)
- William Creighton (Republic of Ireland)
- McRae Kimathi (Kenya)
- Sami Pajari (Finland)
- Robert Virves (Estonia)

The icy forests around Umeå roared to life as the WRC3 field took to the snow for the first competitive warm-up of the weekend. With the shakedown stage offering a short but demanding test loop, it was all about feeling out the grip, dialing in setups, and settling the nerves before Stage 1 on Friday.

Key Observations
- Jon Armstrong looked razor sharp on his return to WRC3 action, attacking the stage confidently with minimal hesitation on the ice. His car setup looked dialed in from the first run.

- Sami Pajari, fresh off his Monte Carlo win, looked smooth and measured. He ran just two shakedown passes—clearly saving energy for tomorrow’s stages.

- Robert Virves had a scrappy first run but came alive on the second, finding pace especially in the high-speed, snowbank-lined sections.

- Butt Hertz used the session wisely—taking four passes, each one cleaner than the last. He was seen chatting closely with engineers post-run, clearly learning every step of the way.

McRae Kimathi, in his snow debut, looked understandably cautious but stayed clean. His goal is to gain experience, and he did just that today.​

 

[Spitfire]

WRC3 Rally Sweden - (Day Two | Stages 1-4) 25th February

Rally Sweden kicked off in style with four fast, icy stages that immediately separated the experienced snow racers from those still learning to trust the grip. WRC3 delivered action, surprises, and drama—and after the first day, the battle at the top is already intense.

Stage-by-Stage Breakdown

✅ SS1: Umeå Sprint 1 (5.9 km)
Pajari made a statement immediately, winning the stage with clinical precision.
Armstrong was close behind, with Creighton impressively slotting into P3 early.
Butt Hertz took a cautious approach, finishing 6th in class but clean.

✅ SS2: Kamsjön (18.4 km)
Jon Armstrong responded, taking his first stage win of the rally with a committed run.
Pajari lost a couple of seconds after over-rotating into a snowbank but recovered quickly.
Robert Virves began to find rhythm and set 3rd-fastest time.

✅ SS3: Brattby (12.6 km)
Virves pushed hardest here, winning the stage by 1.3s over Pajari.
Hertz showed notable improvement, climbing to P5 momentarily before being bumped by Creighton.
Kimathi struggled in deep ruts, but stayed on the road.

✅ SS4: Umeå Sprint 2 (Repeat of SS1)
Pajari struck back, winning the stage again with laser-like lines through the flowing turns.
Armstrong played it safe and kept the gap under 5 seconds overall.
Lauri Joona climbed to 4th, quietly consistent and clean.

* * * *

Butt Hertz Reflects on a Tough Opening Day in WRC3: "This Step Up Was Never Meant to Be Easy"
After finishing Day 1 of Rally Sweden 6th overall in the WRC3 class, American hopeful Butt Hertz kept a level head despite the steep learning curve he faced on the snow-laden Scandinavian roads. Following a conservative start in SS1 and signs of improvement across the day’s four stages, Hertz admitted that his transition from JWRC to WRC3 is proving to be as challenging as expected.

Butt Hertz – Friday Evening Interview
"Yeah, this was definitely one of the harder days I've had in a rally car."
Hertz said, stepping out of his Rally3 Ford Fiesta with a face half-covered in frost, half in quiet determination.
"But I didn’t come into WRC3 expecting anything less. This step up was never meant to be easy."

Despite the early time loss in the Umeå Sprint stages, where he cautiously navigated snowbanks and icy braking zones, Hertz showed steady improvement, particularly in SS3 (Brattby), where he climbed briefly into the Top 5.

"The grip changes corner to corner, and that just messes with your confidence," he explained.
"I think I was still in JWRC mode on Stage 1—playing it too safe—but by Stage 3, I finally felt like I was driving the car the way it’s meant to be driven."

Learning in Real Time
Hertz is no stranger to big learning curves. His rise through the JWRC ranks in 2021 was built on incremental progress, long nights with pacenotes, and a lot of humility, and he's carrying that same mindset into WRC3.

"It’s easy to forget that most of these guys have driven on snow their whole lives. For me, this is a first. But that’s why I’m here—to take the punches, learn fast, and fight back smarter tomorrow."

What’s Next?
Looking ahead to Saturday’s longer and more demanding stages, Hertz acknowledged the need to balance aggression with survival:

"There’s still a lot of rally to go. Tomorrow, we’ll try to be more confident on the throttle, more precise with the lines. It’s not about winning yet—it’s about proving we belong here. And we do."

Butt Hertz may not be battling for the podium yet—but his mindset, grit, and willingness to learn show exactly why he’s in WRC3. The grind continues Saturday—and you can be sure he’ll be right back in the snowbanks, chasing seconds and growth.​

 

[Spitfire]

WRC3 Rally Sweden - (Day Three | Stages 5-8) 26th February
Day 2 of Rally Sweden 2022 delivered everything we hoped for—big risks, big moves, and big mistakes. The longest leg of the rally tested even the most experienced drivers, and the leaderboard saw shifts across the board, including a lead change, a spin for Pajari, and Butt Hertz’s strongest stage yet in snow conditions.

Stage-by-Stage Breakdown

✅ SS5: Norrby (22.3 km)
Armstrong took the lead from Pajari, setting the fastest time with a confident, flowing run.
Pajari clipped a snowbank in a right-hander, losing 7 seconds but avoiding major damage.
Butt Hertz posted his best stage time so far, just 2.9s off Creighton.

✅ SS6: Klabböle (14.6 km)
Robert Virves responded with a blistering stage win, closing the gap to Pajari to under 10 seconds.
Joona and Creighton matched pace closely, with almost identical splits through the forest sector.
Kimathi suffered a stall at a hairpin and dropped 12 seconds.

✅ SS7: Floda (20.1 km)
Armstrong went fastest again, looking absolutely in control with no mistakes.
Pajari regained pace but couldn't match Armstrong’s rhythm in the faster mid-stage sections.
Hertz continued to improve, taking time out of Creighton for the second consecutive stage.

✅ SS8: Umeå Arena Sprint (2.8 km – Super Special)
Pajari fought back, winning the short spectator-friendly sprint with millimeter-perfect driving.
Joona finally beat Virves by 0.6s in a close duel for P3.
Kimathi thrilled the crowd with a clean run and a small Scandi flick through the final corner.

+ + +​

Driver Quotes – End of Day 2

Jon Armstrong (1st):
"The rhythm felt great all day. We made a few tweaks to the diff settings overnight and it gave me a bit more confidence in the fast stuff. Pajari’s still right there, though—it’s not over."

Sami Pajari (2nd):
"A small mistake in SS5, but otherwise I’m happy. Tomorrow we will go flat out—I want the win."

Robert Virves (3rd):
"These conditions are wild—high speeds, low grip, and huge risk. We’re still pushing."

Butt Hertz (6th):
"This is the best I’ve felt in the car. I’m starting to feel what the car wants on snow. If I can stay clean tomorrow, maybe there’s a top five in it."

Day 2 Takeaways
✅ Armstrong takes control, but Pajari remains within striking distance.
✅ Virves still in the mix, but pushing hard and occasionally ragged.
✅ Hertz continues upward trajectory, closing in on Creighton.
✅ Joona could quietly steal a podium if others make mistakes.
✅ Final day is shorter but intense, and everything’s still up for grabs.​