In racing’s new digital era, motorsports betting has undergone a dramatic transformation, shifting from simple race winner predictions to complex in-race markets.

According to Gaming Today, Formula 1 and NASCAR have seen betting engagement surge by 300% since 2021, highlighting motorsport’s growing appeal to wagering audiences.

Formula 1’s betting revolution

The data revolution in Formula 1 has transformed how fans engage with the sport. F1’s Official Stats Database shows that modern race fans analyse everything from tire degradation to pit stop windows, creating new opportunities for in-race betting markets. Strategy calls and weather changes now drive significant betting activity during Grand Prix weekends.

NASCAR’s market evolution

NASCAR’s betting landscape has evolved significantly. Racing Reference data indicates that stage racing has created new betting opportunities, with fans now able to wager on individual stage winners and lap leaders alongside traditional race outcomes.

Technical analysis in betting

Modern motorsport betting relies heavily on technical understanding. Motorsport analytics show that factors like track temperature, tire compounds, and fuel loads significantly influence betting patterns. Teams’ technical updates and practice performance now directly impact odds movements.

Live betting innovation

In-race betting has revolutionized motorsport engagement. Racing Post reports that features like live timing data and real-time telemetry have enabled more sophisticated betting markets, particularly in Formula 1 where strategy plays a crucial role.

Regional market differences

Different racing series attract distinct betting patterns. Data from Racer.com shows that while F1 betting focuses on technical aspects and strategy, NASCAR markets tend to emphasize head-to-head driver matchups and stage results.

Impact on viewership

The integration of betting has transformed race broadcasts. AutoSport analysis reveals that viewers engaging with betting markets watch races for longer periods and show greater interest in technical coverage and team strategy discussions.

Data-driven decisions

Modern motorsport betting relies heavily on data analysis. Teams now provide unprecedented access to timing information, with F1 Technical reporting that this transparency has created more informed betting markets and sophisticated wagering strategies.

Mobile innovation

Technology has revolutionized trackside betting. Mobile apps now offer real-time odds updates, live telemetry data, and instant market adjustments based on race events. This accessibility has particularly resonated with younger fans new to motorsport betting.

Future developments

The intersection of technology and betting continues to evolve. Emerging trends include virtual reality race viewing combined with betting interfaces, and artificial intelligence-driven odds compilation incorporating historical track data and weather patterns.

Racing’s relationship with betting markets grows more sophisticated each season. As technology advances and data analysis becomes more refined, the integration between motorsports and betting will likely deepen, creating new ways for fans to engage with their favourite racing series.

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What makes motorsport a fan-gripping sport is speed, absolute skill and maybe just a little overdose of adrenaline. Throughout its existence, some drivers have stood head and shoulders above others to live in legend.

This article celebrates some of the most iconic figures in motorsport, whose legacies continue to inspire new generations of drivers and fans alike, similar to how bettors seek no deposit bonuses in germany to enhance their gaming experiences.

Juan Manuel Fangio: The maestro of Formula 1

Known simply as “El Maestro,” Juan Manuel Fangio holds one of the most legendary names concerning Formula 1 ever put on paper. He was a kind of monarch in his discipline during the 1950s, for he became World Champion five times: in 1951, 1954, 1955, 1956 and 1957. The benchmark from his skill level and class in driving raised it to a height very few have equaled. His commitment to the sport, which exuded sportsmanship, is forever etched in motorsport history.

Even to this day, years since his retirement, Fangio’s name is synonymous with excellence and mastery in racing. It was this adaptability to different cars and teams, coupled with the level head under pressure, which made him a formidable opponent, one of the most endearing figures in motor racing.

Ayrton Senna: The Brazilian sensation

Ayrton Senna was a driver considered by many to be the greatest of all time—a man who touched millions with his exceptional talent and never-ending search for perfection. In 1988, 1990 and 1991, Senna became a three-time Formula 1 World Champion and is well known for his tremendous qualifying speed and phenomenal performance in rainy conditions. His very tragic death at the 1994 San Marino GP is one of the darkest moments in motorsport history, but his legacy lives on by encouraging passion and excellence.

Senna’s driving style was aggressive but so precise that the rivalry with Alain Prost is among the most famous in the sport’s history. Off the track, Senna was known for his philanthropy and deep concern for the welfare of his fellow Brazilians, adding to his legend.

Michael Schumacher: The German titan

In Formula 1, Michael Schumacher is synonymous with success; Seven World Championships back that up in 1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004—Schumacher wrote records that would appear just about insurmountable, along with the return of 91 Grand Prix wins. The times he spent at Ferrari were unique and he made it enjoy unprecedented success.

For many drivers, the palette of Schumacher’s intense concentration and determination is legendary, pushing them to become the greatest. His impact on the sport transcends mere recordkeeping; Schumacher brought in a very professional outlook toward physical fitness, serious preparation and teamwork—things that revolutionized how drivers and teams viewed racing. Even in his retirement, the legacy of Schumacher continues to influence the sport, with young drivers citing him as an inspiration.

Valentino Rossi: The “Doctor” of MotoGP

Few names in motorcycle racing are superior to the legendary Valentino Rossi. “The Doctor” from Valencia has won a record nine Grand Prix World Championships across different classes, seven of which belong to the top class of MotoGP. The fact that his charismatic personality is matched by his sensational talent on two wheels has helped make him an international superstar.

Rossi’s character has also spread far beyond the circuit and he has been instrumental in making MotoGP a global event. During his over two-decade career, there have been countless rivalries and races too many to forget. Rossi’s ability to adapt to changes in the sport and stay competitive well into his 40s is a hallmark of both his skill and determination. His fan base, known as the “Yellow Army,” is one of the most dedicated in motorsport.

Richard Petty: The King of NASCAR

Richard Petty, mostly known as simply “The King,” is a racing legend in America’s stock cars. Petty won seven NASCAR Cup Series championships and a record 200 races during his illustrious career. His stratospheric success in the ’60s and ’70s helped launch the sport to a new level. His accomplishments are immortalized by the iconic #43 car he drove, along with his signature cowboy hat—both now etched indelibly in the annals of this sport. In addition to all those on-track achievements, Petty was also a team owner and always worked hard to promote and grow the sport of NASCAR.

Alongside his friendly personality, this dedication back to the fans made him hold a dear place within the racing community. Petty’s legacy is not characterized just by his many wins; it leaves a true mark on the sport and its popularity.

Lewis Hamilton: The modern-Day maestro

Lewis Hamilton has reshaped the definition of success as an F1 driver in the modern era. With seven World Championships—in 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020—and numerous records, Hamilton has cemented a place among the all-time greats. Work off the track in some tough campaigns for diversity and against climate change has seen him become a relatively well-known figure outside of motorsport circles.

From humble beginnings to the top of racing—this is the story of Hamilton, one of talent, hard work and perseverance. He gained worldwide respect and admiration by showing commitment to excellence and performing under pressure. But his impact does far more than what he achieved in racing—it is an icon, an inspiration to young and up-and-coming drivers and a voice for positive change in the sport.

Conclusion

Fan bases were not only excited by their unbelievable performances but also inspired generations who followed in their tire tracks. It is, however, heroes like Fangio, Senna, Schumacher, Rossi, Petty and Hamilton who set standards of excellence and left behind legacies through which the sport was shaped. These legends become timeless icons whose stories shall be passed down for generations as motorsport continues to evolve.

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If you’ve watched ‘NASCAR: Full Speed’ on Netflix and are now hooked on stock car racing, but live on the wrong side of the Atlantic to enjoy the Cup Series live, the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series (NWES) will solve your problems.

The NASCAR Cup Series has long been the most-watched motorsport in the United States of America, but its reach hasn’t fully transcended internationally. That interest is starting to grow, buoyed by the impressive Garage 56 NASCAR entry in last year’s centenary 24 Hours of Le Mans and a horde of international superstars who have made special appearances in cup series races. Formula 1 Champions Jenson Button and Kimi Raikkonen have multiple NASCAR race appearances under their belts and FIA WEC title winner Kamui Kobayashi has also had a go. Remarkably, Aussie V8 Supercars legend Shane van Gisbergen won on his NASCAR Cup Series debut in the Chicago Street Race last year, bringing further attention to the USA’s favourite motorsport.

The entertaining, insightful and character-driven ‘Full Speed’ docuseries, charting the 2023 Cup Series playoffs over five episodes is NASCAR’s latest step in broadening its international appeal. There’s no doubt it will attract new and existing fans alike, particularly those in Europe who may be green to the sport, but hooked in as there’s no denying there’s a passion, noise and heightened drama to the raucous V8 circus of stock car racing that is hard to avoid. However, getting across the Atlantic for European fans to watch NASCAR isn’t exactly easy, but EuroNASCAR can quench your stock car thirst.

“The Garage 56 project in 2023 and the new docuseries on Netflix clearly indicate that there is an ever-growing appetite for NASCAR content – and for pure, unfiltered racing – in Europe,” NWES President and CEO Jerome Galpin told Motorsport Week. “Full Speed will definitely further boost the interest towards EuroNASCAR and we expect plenty of new eyes turning towards us. We are hard at work on the plan to develop the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series for the next 5 to 10 years and the potential is huge. I think we are not even halfway to fully realize it, we want to make NWES the absolute best racing show in Europe.”

The European racing show that is EuroNASCAR was established in 2008 and it is the only officially sanctioned NASCAR series outside of the Americas. The 2024 season will be contested across seven venues with multiple races at each venue (excluding the Dutch oval circuit Raceway Venray) for both the Pro EuroNASCAR class and amateur EuroNASCAR 2 class. Both categories compete in V8 stock car monsters, with over 400 horsepower and in 2024, the machines have undergone a subtle evolution. Refinements to the cars for this year will see improved handling through modified front spindles and new three-point front brake calliper brackets and better-performing engines and drivers through new engine oil and cockpit cooling measures.

Drivers can also use the series as a platform to help launch a NASCAR career stateside. Gil Linster, a top talent in the Euro series is aiming to qualify for the ARCA Menards Daytona 200. The ARCA-sanctioned series is a proving ground for drivers looking to progress to NASCAR Xfinity, Trucks and Cup Series and the Daytona 200 race meet takes place at the World Centre of Racing on February 17, a day prior to the Cup Series marquee event, the Daytona 500.

The championship covers plenty of ground for European fans, with the opening round in Valencia, Spain and other visits seeing the series stop off at Vallelunga, Autodrom Most, Oschersleben and Zolder, but the highlight of the year is the American Speedfest round at Brands Hatch. Accompanied by a supporting cast of other American race vehicles from the ages, American Speedfest is a key date not only in the EuroNASCAR calendar but for the circuit itself. Scheduled in the summer month of June, American Speedfest typifies the party atmosphere that Euro NASCAR has become known for and draws one of the largest crowds in Brands Hatch’s year of events. 46,900 spectators turned up for the 2022 event and that figure grew to 50,500 for 2023 – the 10th running of American Speedfest.

Across the 2023 season, attendances averaged 25,000 per venue and not to be outdone by Brand Hatch, Zolder, host of the season finale set series records across digital media. The 2023 EuroNASCAR Finals in Belgium attracted over 1.75 million social impressions and 96,000 interactions – the largest numbers seen since the series was devised. On YouTube, where EuroNASCAR’s free-to-air race broadcasts give fans at home easy access, the Zolder Finals achieved 1.85 million minutes watched and 197,000 live-streaming views.

Galpin believes the successes of 2023 are just a taste of what is to come for EuroNASCAR in 2024 and the series’ President and CEO is keen to maintain upward momentum for the championship. “We always strive to improve at all levels and there will be plenty of new highlights in 2024 for EuroNASCAR,” Galpin said. “We will expand the calendar to seven events, bringing back NASCAR oval racing in Europe at Raceway Venray in the Netherlands. We will have expanded double-points playoffs involving the last two events of the season, there is a brand new evolution package for the EuroNASCAR car and there will also be some new highlights on the competition side. Communication will also receive particular attention in 2024. We want more and more people to engage with the series and become EuroNASCAR fans.”

EuroNASCAR’s free-to-air broadcasting via YouTube is wrapped in the series’ ethos of putting fans first. The series is proud of its product, full of noise and motorsport theatre and it encourages the fans to connect with it. That’s why a ticket will get you behind the scenes via pit and paddock access and the chance to soak up the pre-race atmosphere on grid walks. We are in an age where new fans are engaging with motorsport like never before, predominantly following elite series such as Formula 1 where social activity is high but access to actual events is ringfenced with high ticket prices and extra access resigned to VIPs only. Series like EuroNASCAR, like so many others on U.S shores, Great Britain and Europe are there to welcome fans with open arms.

“We are a people’s sport,” Galpin said. “We are arguably the only series in Europe providing a real racing show for the fans, focusing on pure racing and putting the spotlight on the driver. Our cars have no electronic aids, they are fun to drive and fun to watch. Our events across Europe are all American-themed festivals and we provide full access to the fans: they can meet the drivers at our parades and at the track, touch the cars, join us on the starting grid and really enjoy a weekend of family entertainment, feeling part of the show. For us it’s all about sharing our passion with the fans.”

The time is right for EuroNASCAR to grab fans’ attention in the wake of ‘Full Speed’ on Netflix and the 2024 action begins at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia on April 13.

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New Year, new me, and a new racing event! The Smyrna Speedway kick starts on Friday, February 9th, and will race until Saturday, February 17th, offering all guests a chance to fuel the racing flame inside and to fast start their 2024! The Smyrna Speedway World Series is part of the Florida Speedweeks, starting from January 25th through February 11th, and we understand that it’s a lot to watch out for, as some races may buzz by. But racing fans have nothing to worry about as we’ll cover all of the events of the Smyrna Speedway part below.

All teams will first practice and warm up on Thursday, February 8th, before officially burning rubber on Friday 9th, competing for the best spot in five divisions. The grand openers will be the Pro Late Models and the Super Late Models! After which, the other three divisions are Bomber A, Sportsman, and Florida Modifieds to complete any racing enthusiast enjoyment!

Knowing what sports betting apps are legal in Florida will let the fans predict which of their favorites will win the race, which is equally important as keeping one ear on the road and feeling the pulse of the race.

The action does not stop, and on the following Saturday 10th, it’s 200 laps of NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour madness! The following four divisions consist of: Pro Late Models, Florida Modifies, Bomber A, and Sportsman, are filled to the brim with new potential winners. If all of that was not enough, on “Super Sunday,” we will have the Super and Pro Late Models accompanied by Florida and 602 Modifieds and E-Mods, all going neck to neck towards the finish line before they can take a break.

Starting Monday 12th, Tour Modifieds begin their first of five nights of racing, but they won’t be alone. Viewers will be able to see the Super and Pro Late models with Florida and 602 Modifieds again, all going towards the chequered flag.

And on Thursday, it’s Valentine’s Day, and it’s special in many ways. First, we’ll see the annual Clyde Hart Memorial race expand from 100 to 200 laps for the first time. And that’s not all, as the race will be featured and enlisted in the ASA STARS National Tour event, and star as the season’s opening event!

To add even more flavour to the event, both categories of Super and Pro Late Models will fuse with the modified scene of Florida and 602 Modified, resulting in the biggest racing event of the year. And just when you thought there couldn’t be any more content, the race day will be commemorated for the late John Blewett III.

After such an incredible day, fans and racers will have a slightly less packed day with longer-distance races, where, again, Super and Pro Late Models will go with Florida and 602 Modifieds to see who can win in the long run and go the distance!

On Friday is the finale for the Tour Modifieds and the Pro Late Models. The first will get to run the Richie Evans Memorial 100 and end their run for now, while the latter will compete in the Hart to Heart Pro Late Model 100. But that’s not the end, as Pro Trucks, Ground Pounders, Bomber B, and Super Stocks, will all get a chance to debate and perform to the best of their abilities.

And on the grand finale on Saturday, all six divisions will compete in a joint crescendo of man and machine joined together on the racetrack! Culminating in an exciting finish, this cherry on top is a must-watch event for any racing fan!

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NASCAR stands for National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing. The organization has been organizing auto racing since 1948, with a short but very active history. The association has held many championships or series, as they are also called. These include the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

With a huge fan base and multiple races almost weekly at various race tracks, betting on NASCAR is the most attractive bet for motorsports fans. It operates numerous racing series and formats, the most popular being the Truck Series, Xfinity Series, and Cup Series. All of these races are available for betting on NASCAR sportsbooks.

Types of bets

Several main types of bets can be seen with most bookmaking companies:

• To the winner. This could be winning a race, a series (e.g. Sprint Cup Series, Xfinity, Camping World Truck), or an entire season for a specific athlete. This rate is difficult to predict since the cars have almost identical technical equipment, and other factors come to the fore. The bookmaker lists several riders with the highest chances of winning the stage. Like many North American championships, there is a regular season (26 races) and playoffs. It is extremely difficult to make a constant profit at a distance by betting only on this line.

• Who will be higher? From a pair of athletes, you need to choose the one who finishes higher in the race. Forecasts for Formula 1 do not require great results from the pilots, but the main thing is to get ahead of your opponent in a head-to-head duel.

• Place in the race. Bookmakers offer to predict the approximate position of the pilot – more or less than a certain place in the race.

• Fastest lap. Bookmakers accept bets on the driver who will show the fastest time in one lap.

NASCAR racing is widely represented in the line of bookmakers overseas. They are not as popular as Formula 1, but those who want to make a prediction on NASCAR can do this at bookmakers such as Leon, Liga Stavok, Winline, and many others.

How to place a bet correctly

The result can be influenced not only by the race itself but also by the days leading up to it. And although bookmakers open the line from the very beginning of the week, the teams are still training on the track and getting familiar with the road. During this time, you can take a closer look at the state of affairs and draw your own conclusions based on the analytics performed.

During test runs, drivers get used to the track, and engineers select the most suitable settings for the car. Bookmakers remove the event at this time and return to quotes after the end of the training sessions.

Typically, participants who have already won at a similar event perform better during trial runs. They are more accustomed to the circuit, which is already familiar to them in every detail. A familiar road and excellent form can be a reason to win; increasing the driver’s chances, and therefore the bets.

It is these factors that are the main ones for a thorough analysis – the form of the participant and the movement on the chosen route. During this period, it is necessary to monitor all stages carefully: races, qualifications, and the race itself. Pay attention to technical features and problems. Don’t limit yourself to watching one favorite, try to watch the entire pool.

When betting on races, it is also important to look at driving style. In this case, there are two strategies: cautious and aggressive. Careful tactical driving, burning seconds on turns, is one driving option. An aggressive style of fighting for every inch, which may become unnecessarily risky for the car, is the second way. The first style gives you a better chance of finishing in the top five or top ten regularly. In turn, such a result is important for winning the championship.

Betting features

The Cup Series alone consists of 36 stages, and there are 2 more less prestigious races. If the bookmaker lays out the odds long before the start of the stage, then the margin in them is high, but at the same time, there is a high probability that value markets can be found in the line. The most optimal quotes are given 2-3 days before the start of the stage, while active American fans often influence the level of odds.

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The fast-paced NASCAR racing world depends on its audience and sponsorship deals. Also, being a betting-friendly sport, it’s fertile ground for cooperation with brands and operators. While analyzing insights into gaming experiences at Zodiac Casino, experts discovered online players love being engaged in such crossovers. Accordingly, new NASCAR betting opportunities sound like playing innovative games.

The puzzle pieces came together in February 2021. At the same time, BetMGM became the first official sports betting operator to sponsor a racing team. We will go over growing partnership trends and show you what the deal means to the online gaming industry. Learn the impact of BetMGM NASCAR’s first casino partnership on responsible gambling practices.

Richard Childress Racing’s historic cooperation with BetMGM

In 2021, Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and NASCAR signed the first casino partnership in the competition’s history. The deal kicked off in February’s Daytona 500. BetMGM served as Austin Dillon’s number three Chevrolet sponsor. Moreover, the betting site sponsored Tyler Reddick’s number eight car.

Tyler Reddick’s number eight car

Richard Childress called it a chance to collaborate in many ways. Matt Prevost, CRO at BetMGM, was happy to see Richard Childress Racing cars under the casino’s banner. He said the parties will continue to develop compelling marketing opportunities. Moreover, it is a chance to introduce the betting platform to fans worldwide.

The benefits to the two parties

The landmarking deal triggers certain assets to both parties. Doing business is the most significant, but there’s a lot more:

Moreover, BetMGM users profit from racing-themed games and associated bonuses. We can describe how it works, giving Zodiac casino bonuses as an example. First, interested players register an account. They connect casino wallets with a chosen payment method for the deposit. Finally, the Zodiac Casino New Zealand allocates extra funds for playing. The fan base grows with attractive promotional offers. The same goes for BetMGM, so they wanted to introduce their offering to players who enjoy racing and betting.

How NASCAR and the casino industry are addressing ethical issues and promoting responsible gambling practices

As exciting as it may be, betting on NASCAR races adheres to strict gambling regulation principles. Both NASCAR and the casino industry understand the importance of maintaining ethical standards and promoting responsible behavior. Their balancing promotion efforts emphasize the information about resources for gambling-related issues. Moreover, the series of educational activities takes place between the races. Also, access to partner betting sites comes with age restrictions and verifications.

Growing trend of sports teams to partner with contemporary industries, including casinos

This trend is part of a broader strategy by sports teams and organizations. Successful brands look to diversify revenue streams, increase fan engagement, and enhance visibility. Then, brand visibility and exposure are the next logical step. By branding on team jerseys and stadiums, companies reach a wider audience.

We saw many English Premier League teams wear casino marks on jerseys, opening room for cross-promotion of online industries. It allows both casinos and other brands to profit from a novelty goods and services exchange. Casinos promote sports events to the customers; sports teams advertise casino offerings to the fan base.

Finally, online entertainment enables interested businesses to extend to the markets and demographics. This is one of the reasons why casinos and motorsports can benefit from all mentioned aspects.

Opportunities for Motorsport Teams Creating Partnerships with Casinos

Many examples show the positive impact of cooperation between the two different niches in the gaming industry. For instance, game shows and live casinos created a prosperous gambling field. Sport-themed slots are on the rise, so branded games are a competitive advantage for a casino. The other prospective field relates to bonuses. Registered members in the casino app get access to a partnered zone. They claim bonuses, collect points, and exchange them for cash.

Wrapping up

The use of sponsor names on the sides of race cars is hardly new in the industry. Yet, the actions of BetMGM and Richard Childress Racing are altering the game. The parties have agreed to a multifaceted interaction. The team chairman sought an opportunity to connect racing with a sports betting brand. The innovative move marks the first partnership between a 6-time NASCAR Cup Series winner and a nationwide casino with branches in all major US cities. Together, they’ll create and promote innovative sports betting experiences. In-race betting is among them, to the joy of racing fans worldwide.

Overall, the BetMGM NASCAR is a profitable deal for:

• Themed and branded slot games.
• Bonuses based on participation in such games
• Points collection and cash exchanges.
•  VIP packages, special events, and access to exclusive areas.

The post Richard Childress Racing is the first NASCAR team with a casino partnership appeared first on Motorsport Week.

2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button took on a new adventure last weekend, as he made his debut in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Button has dipped in and out of racing categories since he departed F1 at the end of the 2016 season.

For his NASCAR debut, which was spent with Rick Ware Racing, Button returned to the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas – a track that is familiar to him through his F1 career.

William Byron took pole for the race, with Button setting a time that was good enough for 24th out of 39 drivers.

Button got in the mix straight away and made up two positions in the opening sectors, but dropped back to 26th by the time he completed his first tour of the track.

The race was filled with caution periods, but Button kept out of major trouble and avoided race-ending damage, despite being involved in the wards.

In the end, he took the chequered flag in 18th place.

However, a major factor in his race was temperature inside the car, admitting that he almost retired due to heat exhaustion.

“Finished 18th after almost stopping because I had heat exhaustion,” Button said.

“It was so hot, I don’t have a fan in my seat which really didn’t help me too much. It was so hot, I thought I was going to faint in the car. 

“So, I stopped twice for a minute. They put ice on me, gave me loads of water, and I went back out. I was so close to getting out of the car because I thought I was going to faint. 

“I must’ve drank eight [or] nine bottles of water during the race. The team kept me calm, and it’s the reason why we got a good result in the end. So, I was happy.”

Button also revealed that his car wasn’t feeling right after he made contact with former F1 rival Kimi Raikkonen, who made his first outing in the Cup Series after his 2022 debut.

Raikkonen finished the race in 29th.

“I also had a massive whack from Kimi, and it fell off after that,” Button said. “The car wasn’t quite right. Every time I turned in, the rear tyres would chatter, then immediately to oversteer. 

“It was really difficult, but towards the end, we made some good calls stopping and putting on fresh tires. I enjoyed the last three restarts – got good placement and good overtaking moves from the outside.”

Button will be back competing in the NASCAR Cup Series at the Chicago Street Course event on July 2.

The post How Button fared in his NASCAR Cup Series debut appeared first on Motorsport Week.

Ahead of his NASCAR debut, 2009 Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button has identified stage points as something the pinnacle of motorsport could learn from the American stock car series.

Along with fellow F1 champion Kimi Raikkonen, Button will race at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas in the cup series in two weeks, before taking part in two further events in Chicago and Indianapolis this summer.

The cup series points system sees points handed out in three stages of the race, and Button feels this is something F1 could explore.

READ MORE: Button to contest three NASCAR Cup rounds in 2023

“I think the great thing about F1 is they are very open to changes and tickling it here,” he said. “We have the sprint races, which I think work really well. Not everyone’s going to be happy when you change a sport that has been the same for so long. But I like that change.

“In NASCAR they have stage points through the race. That could make it interesting because it depends on when you pit for tyres.

“If you get points at certain points through the race, if it’s lap, 20 lap 40 and the end of the race, it might change strategies around. Who knows? I don’t know if it would work.”

The 43-year-old, who has also tried his hand in endurance racing, is happy with where F1 is but affirms that it needs to keep trying new things.

“I think F1 is in a great place, I enjoy the racing,” added Button. “The dream in F1 is that the cars are lighter, that’s always the dream, because I think as drivers, we like lightweight cars – he says, as he’s about to race a stock car!

“But I’m happy with where F1 is, as long as we’re ready to tickle things here and there if we think it’s necessary, and try it and not be afraid.”

The post F1 could take pointers from NASCAR – Button appeared first on Motorsport Week.

Jenson Button will make his NASCAR Cup debut in 2023 after signing up to contest three rounds this season.

Button, the 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, will debut on March 26 at the Circuit of the Americas before also running the inaugural Chicago Street Race on July 2 and the Indianapolis Road Course on August 13.

Button will drive the No. 15 Mobil 1 Ford Mustang fielded by Rick Ware Racing with promotional and marketing support from Stewart-Haas Racing.

The NASCAR outings will be in conjunction to Button contesting this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours as part of the Garage 56 effort that is bringing a modified stock car to the French endurance event.

“The first time I jumped into the Garage 56 car, it was like, ‘What have I done? This is so different,’ and that lasted about four laps,” said Button.

“Then it was like, ‘Hang on, it’s still a racing car. It’s got four tyres that touch the road. It’s a mechanical race car, which is even better for learning.’ I’ve really enjoyed the challenge.

“A Cup car has a lot less downforce and is a lot heavier, but the Garage 56 car has given me an idea of what it will be like along with a direction, which is really useful.

“I know in my first race I’m not expected to be qualifying right at the front and I’m not expected to be fighting for a victory. I have a lot of respect for the drivers racing in the Cup Series. There’s so much talent there, whether it’s on ovals or road courses.

“Ten years ago, people used to say NASCAR guys can’t drive around a circuit, but I think they’ve proven that they can.

“Every time an ex-F1 driver gets in a stock car these days, they struggle initially. It takes a while for them to get up to speed, so I don’t expect to be right at the front, straight away.

“That’s why, for me, doing more than one race is really key so I can get the best out of myself and the best out of the car.”

Button will consequently be on the same grid as former F1 rival Kimi Räikkönen, who has also signed up for this month’s round at COTA.

The post Button to contest three NASCAR Cup rounds in 2023 appeared first on Motorsport Week.

Kimi Räikkönen will return to NASCAR at this month’s round at US Grand Prix venue Circuit of the Americas.

Räikkönen retired from Formula 1 at the end of the 2021 season but made an appearance in the NASCAR Cup Series at Watkins Glen last August.

Per Räikkönen’s maiden run his outing at COTA will come with the PROJECT91 operation, which is run in conjunction with Trackhouse Racing.

Räikkönen participated in eight grands prix at COTA and claimed his last Formula 1 win at the track in 2018.

“I had a fantastic time in NASCAR,” said Räikkönen. “There was a lot to learn in a very short amount of time, but everyone was very helpful, the competition was a big challenge.

“This time I get to race on a track I am familiar with so there won’t be as steep of a learning curve. I want to have fun, but also do as well as we can.”

Räikkönen will race the No. 91 Onx/iLOQ Chevrolet Camaro and is not due to test the car until the event at COTA on March 26.

“When we announced Kimi last year I said he was the global superstar I had in mind when we created PROJECT91,” said Trackhouse Owner Justin Marks.

“I think you saw the fan reception across the world and Kimi’s performance in the car was proof of the concept. Kimi’s following is massive and it’s great for NASCAR, Trackhouse plus I think Kimi really enjoys our racing.”

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