Russell's deal stuck on fair terms

Russell's deal stuck on fair terms

George Russell is confirmed to race for Mercedes next season, but he is still negotiating his 2026 contract and seeks terms that he considers “fair” for both parties. The talks are not only about money but also about the heavy marketing duties that drivers face alongside an already packed 24-race calendar. Charles Leclerc and Alex Albon explained that too many sponsor events can cut into recovery and training, making it harder for drivers to perform at their best. Russell said there are no updates yet, but with his strong 2025 form, he plans to hold out until he gets a deal that balances performance demands with commercial obligations.

Click here to read the full article by Jake Boxall-Legge (motorsport.com)

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North Carolina passes law to protect race tracks

North Carolina has passed a new law that stops people from building houses or businesses near race tracks and later complaining about the noise. The law, known as the “Racing Facility and Racetrack Nuisance Immunity,” protects tracks that were built legally with the proper permits before neighbors moved in. Supporters argue that tracks are important because they create jobs, support local businesses, and preserve racing traditions. Other places, such as Iowa and South Boston, Virginia, have passed similar laws, while North Carolina still has 40 race tracks, including Charlotte Motor Speedway and North Wilkesboro.

Click here to read the full article by Matt Weaver (motorsport.com)

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Collet, Koolen take first INDYCAR laps

Caio Collet and Niels Koolen tested an NTT INDYCAR SERIES car for the first time on October 1 at Mid-Ohio. Collet, who finished second in the 2025 INDY NXT season, drove with AJ Foyt Racing, while Koolen stayed with Chip Ganassi Racing after racing in their NXT program. Both drivers noted that the biggest difference was the braking power, with Collet completing 95 laps and Koolen 103. Collet ended the day second overall and hopes to move to INDYCAR in 2026, while Koolen, who finished eighth in NXT, may return for another season.

Click here to read the full article by Paul Kelly (indycar.com)

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Stellantis hires crew chief for NASCAR return

Stellantis has chosen Kevin Kidd as the new North American Motorsports Competition Director, where he will oversee NHRA and Ram’s return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026. Kidd has over 25 years of racing experience, working as a race engineer, crew chief, and director, and has worked with drivers such as Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano, and Elliott Sadler. In this new role, he will collaborate with Kaulig Racing, Tony Stewart Racing, and Direct Connection Engineering, with Stellantis leaders noting that his ideas align with their push for improved performance. Ram is returning to NASCAR after a 13-year hiatus, and both Stellantis and NASCAR view it as a significant step that will bring new attention and energy to the sport.

Click here to read the full article by Lydia Mee (bellinghamherald.com)

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New drivers join lineups for 2025 Petit Le Mans

Three teams revealed new driver additions for the 2025 Motul Petit Le Mans. Acura Meyer Shank Racing signed Tristan Vautier to race the No. 93 Acura ARX-06 with Renger van der Zande and Nick Yelloly, while JDC-Miller MotorSports brought in Neel Jani and IMSA rookie Max Esterson to join Tijmen van der Helm in the No. 85 Porsche 963. Conquest Racing added Mike Skeen as its third driver in the No. 34 Ferrari 296 GT3 with Daniel Serra and Manny Franco as they aim to repeat their 2024 GTD win. Other lineup changes include Julien Andlauer with Porsche Penske Motorsport, Connor De Phillippi in both Paul Miller Racing BMW entries, and Michael Christensen returning to AO Racing.

Click here to read the full article at imsa.com