2019 Silly Season Thread

[Cynon]

(OOC: Remember, this is the Silly Season thread, so you can write fake news, wild bullshit you may have heard me say at some point, or coded "Cynon pls do this" posts.)

Mullen Back as Voice of TM Master Cup Series

In an unexpected move, 44Sports confirmed that Dan Mullen will return as the voice of the TM Master Cup series for the 2019 season and beyond. 44Sports clarified that their return to presenting the series would be more than just throwing back to when they last broadcast the series in 2014. In response to some of the restrictions on Mullen that many fans complained about during the four years of the series airing on KLtv, 44Sports confirmed that they would encourage Mullen to "be himself" in the booth.

"Mullen will bring a level of authenticity that only he could bring to the TM Master Cup series, and we're proud to let him be himself." an official statement said.

When 44Sports regained the broadcast rights to the TM Master Cup series for the 2019 season, there were doubts that longtime play-by-play commentator Dan Mullen would return to his role over reports he was "abrasive" during his time at KLtv. Reports that Mullen incensed KLtv executives with "biased support" were confirmed by Mullen, but denied by KLtv.

Mullen stated on his radio show, the Dan Mullen Radio Hour, that the specific remarks that caught the ire of KLtv executives seemed "out of a really bad dystopian fiction", hinting that speaking of Karjala-winning crew chief Zohair Khan as a positive role model might have been one such remark.

Another Rosenstreter to Race in 2019?

Reports are circulating that the 2018 North American GT GTD champion Carel Rosenstreter, 20, will make his TM Master Cup series debut in 2019. Rosenstreter, who's father, Stan, competed in the series briefly earlier in the decade, has reportedly been given special dispensation for a Master License. The younger Rosenstreter's Master License is reportedly only valid for road courses, since he has never competed or driven on an oval before. It's unclear if Carel Rosenstreter intends to get certified to race a TM Master Cup series car on an oval or not. It is likely that he runs a partial schedule, since he has already announced plans to race in the 24 hour races at Daytona, Spa, and at Le Mans.

Although born in South Africa, the younger Rosenstreter is a U.S. citizen, it is unclear which flag he would race under, since he has professionally used both the South African and American flags.

[NASCARLOVER427]

Current NAAC team TurboSports to field an Independents Trophy car for 2019

As the 2019 Silly Season kicks off many rumors start swirling around as various dominoes for 2019 start to fall into place, and one domino that was very eager to fall has been the West Virginia based NAAC operation of TurboSports. The team has been trying to grow their operation into an international presence since 2017, but in a press release apparently written by team owner Alex Constantine himself, the team has decided to get this dream for them off the ground. The team has bought 4 Lycoia Inquisitors according to the document, and looks prime for an Independents Trophy run in 2019. In the press release they also hoped to get the number 64 for the car and the sponsor for all the races would be RKO Self Defense, which runs on the #41 TurboSports car of Ryan Walker currently in the NAAC and will sponsor them again in 2019. A driver has not yet been announced, but the press release says that all the drivers in the fold are possible candidates, including himself.

[RaceCamera]

Mason Yokoyama to Return to TMMC

Occasional competitor Mason Yokoyama plans on returning to TMMC for 2019 after a hiatus. Yokoyama made his debut in the Round of Victoria in 2014 driving for Dalton Johnson, where he finished 27th, multiple laps down. He also attempted Indy and Decatur that same year for his own team. He has spend the next few years appearing in other series like FARC. Now, Yokoyama plans on running either for a Promoter's Option or an Independent's Trophy bid with MHL as his sponsor in his own 276 car.

[historyracer]

Rich Roy looks For Independence Trophy
With support from his own company, Roy INC., Rich Roy has recently expressed the idea of running in the TMMC. The 19 year old has won the American Dirt Racing Championship twice, but his FARC season has gone horribly. Roy hopes a 2nd ride and a new change of scenery will help

[Backmarker]

DS Autosport eyeing Independent's Trophy Bid
Germany-based DS Autosport confirmed to reporters that while details are still being finalized, the team hopes to appear in the TM Master Cup series in 2019 and compete for the Independent's Trophy. Co-owned by former touring car champion Thomas Dietrich and Peter van der Schmidt, DS Autosport competed in Dash Cup from 2013 to 2015 before turning its' attention to TM Europe.

With the reintroduction of customer cars to TMMC, DS is expected to field Gesslers sponsored by long-time supporter Equest Financial, driven by Dietrich.

Richard Scott still seeking his golden opportunity
27 year old American Richard Scott also stated that he is continuing to seek financial backing to race in the TM Master Cup series or TM Lights in 2019. Scott made his name in the FARC Lowe Dollar Series, where he has 10 top-ten finishes and a victory in a Daytona qualifying race to his credit and still occasionally races.

He first dipped his toe into the highest levels of stock car racing in 2014, when he joined Big Mac Racing to compete for the Independent's Trophy following the departure of Tom Moore; he was then unexpectedly signed to drive for the defending champions, Roderick Motorsports, in TM Lights. Perhaps with too many responsibilities to handle in addition to his full-time FARC schedule, Scott struggled to find the consistent speed and results of his teammate, the eventual champion Héctor Serrano, and was dropped by the team in favor of Treck Tauger- who won his first race in the series.

"That first TM Lights run was disappointing for sure, I admit I squandered a big break because I bit off more than I can chew", Scott reflected in a recent interview. "But I'm not going to let that define my career, and getting to the top is my sole focus now. If I can just get another shot in Lights, or the Independent's Trophy, or maybe try my luck in ASCC, I know I can show the top guys I still have what it takes."

[Electric Wolf]

Lester seeking a Master Cup return?

After several years of mixed results and a racing record with a distinct gap of time between starts, it seems a fringe driver is finally taking his shot at TM Master Cup glory.

That is, if there is a shot to save.

Casey Lester has dabbled around motorsports for several years, making his professional debut at the 2010 Soda World @ Mosport in the then-titled ARLA Elite Series, crashing out at the start of the second lap. His overexuberance and inexperience showed as he failed to qualify for another race in the Patterson Autosport #246 Cromwell. For 2011, he attempted to make the Decatur Grand Prix having acquired a 2010 Omecha MA01 and did not prove to be competitive. He had not made friends in the paddock after remarking that Cesar Vila Nova caused the fatal accident of Scott Hamilton and that he "should be thrown in jail."

"Oh, yeah. That isn't something I like to go back to", Lester laughed in an interview Wednesday evening. "It was a wrong take, too, and I feel terrible for it. I was just a reckless kid trying to act out and get my name out there, trying to do what I could to be part of the paddock. I went about it completely wrong. I was well on my way to being ousted from motorsports. People knew my name from the stupid s**t I said about Cesar at Brazil which I had no right to say to begin with. I'm sure all has been forgiven in time, but I'll always keep that in the back of my mind."

2012 saw the New Yorker move to the American Stock Car Championship for Bill Chapman's #26 Cialis Saar, but his only real highlight was a 6th-place finish at the season-opening Texas 500. BCM did not return to the series in 2013, so he settled on running in the World Sports Car Championship, partnering with some investors to fund his own team for the season and competing alongside Dash Cup driver Dan Morton in the #71 Inglesby. Unable to adapt to the different style of prototypes, he performed poorly and the team did not return.

"I wouldn't say it was a mistake exactly. It was a neat opportunity I got and some friends of mine needed places to go as well. I jumped into it way too quick for sure, but I always wanted to see what it was like to drive a prototype."

He showed a renewed interest in ARLA, competing in three events and performing the best at Mosport in Riggs Motorsports' #29 car before being wrecked out late in the going. Lester then moved to the FARC LoBo Truck Tour for 2014 on a partial basis, taking two Top 5 finishes at Circuit of the Americas and Talladega. His good friend, Ike Durbin, called him in the offseason to drive the #44 Verdant Lenard full-time in the Super Series for 2015. He excitedly accepted the offer, but only got one Super Series race under his belt - he didn't even finish it, but it nearly finished him.

"I think we've all heard enough about the wreck. At least Tristan [Bayne] is doing well from what I hear."

After a lengthy recovery, he went to Dash Cup for upstart Keep Up GP for 2016 and performed as one of the better drivers on the team. He won a race the following season, earning the team its maiden victory.

"It was largely because everybody else wrecked out, but it's a win, damnit." Lester remarked on it. "Mr. Minter gave me a golden opportunity and he is the reason I'm still employed. He got me my only Dash Cup win. He helped me mature a lot as a driver."

It was expected for 2018 that he would return to Keep Up GP, but he sought other opportunities once again. This time, he took to the revived Formula Overdrive with entrepeneur Owen Lynhurst starting up a team and wanting an experienced driver to mentor Beugnet and Fermanian. After five race wins, he clinched the series title this past fall at Richmond and his future plans have not been formally announced yet.

"Do I see myself in Master Cup? Not exactly. Well, okay, yes and no. I can see part-time opportunities opening up, but I'm a bit past the age where big time teams are seriously considering you. I'm not Kevin Dwyer or Saul Fischel. I like to think I'm a driver who's come a long way and definitely has the poise and can conduct myself on-track a lot better than I did as a hotshot 23-year-old. I feel I have learned from my mistakes and getting myself in too deep. Now is the time that I can show what I am capable of."

Reports from small-name insiders say that he has been contacting Alex Harrison Racing about potentially driving for the team in their bid for the Independent's Trophy, but there haven't been any major news outlets who have confirmed this.

[Rovenami]

Tauger looking for run for Independent's Trophy with Freya and Saito
After 5 years of racing in TM Lights with the occasional FARC race and Promoter Option race in Master Cup, Austrian driver Treck Tauger had decided it was time for him to run for the Independent's Trophy. He decided to team up with "Freya and Saito" whom he previously raced for in FARC. "I may not be able to run for the Master Cup Series Championship, but I'll be aiming for the next best thing. I feel like our team would be more than capable of at least contending for the Trophy."
It is expected that Freya and Saito would run for the Independent's Trophy with sponsorship backing from Phantom Spark Plugs, who previously sponsored Tauger in 2017 in FARC and TM Lights leading to 2 race victories in FARC and 3 race victories and 3rd in points on the TM Lights side. It is also expected that he would also bid to winning the seemingly elusive TM Lights championship with the same team and sponsor.

[JMac525]

Tom Moore Looking for Full Time Master Cup Return

Tom Moore is currently looking to continue full time competition in the TM Master Cup series. The Seattle driver made some noise when he drove for the Independent’s Trophy by placing 2nd place twice and finishing in the top ten to fifteen multiple other races. While short tracks proved to be a major strength, he began to improve on the other type of tracks. In 2014, he began the year with Delgarmo-Delgado Racing with poor to mixed results. (He snagged an 11th place finish at Quincy) He finished the year with some respectable runs with the new Team SAAR USA. Tom remarked, “If Team Saar wants me back in their operation, I’d be all in for racing for them again. If not, I respect the decision and am hopeful to land a Full Time somewhere else. I’m all in on 2019.” Moore has been running sports cars recently to improve his road course prowess and running short track races in an effort to go back to his roots.

Big Mac Racing Hopes to Run for IT Trophy in 2019

Past Independent’s Trophy contender Big Mac Racing plans on once again entering the IT championship. Apparently the team has some sponsors lined up, but may need the driver to being one with them as well. As for names of drivers who could run the (likely #52), not much is known. The team is looking for an up and coming driver. Makoto Yamaha and Richard Scott both drove for the team in 2014 and the controversial Monica Rook currently runs for the team in FARC. The team is open to any bright new contenders. If Tom Moore does not find a FT ride, he would be the first choice.

[Magus978]

Former Dash Cup Champion Delgado "In Best Shape Ever", Hopes for Master Cup Return

Former ASCC & Dash Cup champion Tom Delgado has put his services out for a team serious about contending for wins and long-term success. The former four division race winner claimed on Twitter that he is in the best shape of his life and that all his personal issues throughout his career are settled.

RealTomDelgado: Officially putting it out there. I'm a free agent and I'm entertaining offers for either a full time Master Cup campaign, or an independent's trophy run. Considering my stature, I believe I've earned the right to narrow my search for a team down. No non-serious efforts that will just waste my time and your money, and no perennial backmarkers. 1/2 #TheHuntBeginsAgain

RealTomDelgado: Championship/Independent's Trophy contenders only. I'm 44 years old, 45 in August, and my clock is ticking. I'll gladly take a lower salary if it means a better shot at a championship-caliber drive. There's no more personal issues, those are in the past. I just want a shot to show that on my day, I'm still the best in the world. 2/2 #TheHuntBeginsAgain

Delgado, 44, has two TM Master Cup series wins (both in 2011), and is the 2014 ASCC champion & 2017 Dash Cup Super Stocks champion. He has made 6 Master Cup starts since 2013 after a brief retirement from the series in the middle of the 2012 season due to health issues, scoring points in all but one (2013 New York), with two top 10's (2014 New York, 2014 Decatur). He is considered one of the sport's most versatile drivers, as well as one of the best closers in modern racing history. He has not run a full season in any series since 2017.

[bsoyuz]

Saar do Brasil future uncertain

Saar do Brasil obtained some moderate success in the past years in Master Cup competition, however, this is rumored to come to an end, as sources within the brazilian auto racing journalism have pointed out the main sponsor of the team, Unitron Computers may be ready to back off to support a full-time driver.

If Unitron leaves, this will put the team's program under jeopardy as the sponsorship Unitron provides is the main source of funding for the team.

Macena unsure of future

Gabriel Macena has been alternating between Dash Cup and TM Lights in the last few years, obtaining multiple wins in both series, however he has been rumored to have been offered a spot in by several teams of varying profiles at TM Master Cup Series level. However, the uncertainty lies on the fact Macena may be unable to secure proper funding for Master Cup, one of the reasons behind the merger between Carter Racing and Gabriel Macena Racing in the Dash Cup scene, which culminated with Macena not running full-time.

[Ben Atkins]

Atkins "ready to return" to full-time TM Master Cup competition

Ben Atkins has announced that he is interested in a return to the TM Master Cup series following his previous stint with Scuderia Tutino from 2013-2014. Atkins, 31, is known for earning the fan favourite team's first top 10 at British Columbia in 2014, where he earned a 10th place finish on fuel strategy. Atkins has scored two previous top 10's in the series, both 5th place finishes, one as a one-off driver on debut at Decatur and the other driving for his own team in the hunt for the Independent's Trophy at Quebec.

Atkins has been out of racing since a GT accident at Road America in 2017, where he lost his brakes entering the second turn, slamming the wall at full speed. Atkins was uninjured, but had to be cut out of the car.

"Having to be cut out of the car was one of the most surreal moments of my racing career, but not for the right moments," said Atkins, "I had recently married Hannah, and at the time she was pregnant with Katie, and all I could think about was "What if I get killed doing this?" and I decided to call it quits right in that moment."

"I always admitted that a call-up back to the TM Master Cup series would change my mind, but I've had more of an itch to get back behind the wheel. Hannah, being a former racer herself, has been fully supportive of my decision. Now, I feel like, is the right time to get back into the series. I've grown as a person, and I know that I have a more calm and mature approach to my racing. It's just a matter of finding a ride for the season now!"

Atkins has been seen recently testing Dash Cup cars for his own team, and has had competitive times to their 2019 line-up Harriet Wallace and Mauricio Gallardo. Atkins is set to split a part-time entry with his wife's younger sister, Lexie, where he will be competing in two rounds of the calendar.

[gwoodard41]

Lycoia to introduce new model in upcoming TMMC season.

The manufacturer will have available in the 2019 season dubbed the Inquisitor. It is replacing the Infiltrator which has been the primary chassis for the manufacturer through the 2018 season.

Greg Woodard set to stay on with PSI after successful 2018 season.

The 29 year old native of Decatur, IL stated over several of his social media accounts that he plans to stay on with Power Steering Incorporated. He also stipulated that he will be bringing in several sponsors for the season. He mention that he will be sponsored by sponsors such as Dr. Quacker, Tide, Smokey's BBQ, and Frozr Graphic Cards. He also said he plans to retain his current number of 41.

Terra International Motorsports plans on returning with Dempsey and Castle.

The team announced that they plan to bring in Jack Dempsey and Wyatt Castle as there drivers for the 2019 season. Dempsey is plan to be sponsored by Sticky Hooves Glue and Castle is planned to be sponsored by McWendeeking Restaurants. The team registered the numbers 89 and 96, but acknowledged that if the officials decided to give them different numbers they would abide by it with no issues.

[Hockeyusa81]

Voyles to run for the independence trophy in 2019
It’s been 5 years since Daniel Voyles attempted the round of Decatur with his own team in which he failed to qualify for the race. Since then Voyles ran a limited schedule in farc back in 2017 and had some mixed results here and there including a top 20 run at Quincy due to a number of attrition in that race. “A lot of people were shocked to see us getting top 20 runs because of drivers crashing out like candy” he said. “It was a huge boost for my team despite not having a sponsor and it was a start up team which I couldn’t be proud of.” Now Daniel Voyles who will run the full season in the ASCC for 2019 has announced that he will run for the independence trophy in the TM Master Cup Series with his team in the upcoming season. “It’s going to be a huge learning curve between a master cup car and the ASCC car this year but I know this team will be up for the challenge that comes our way one way or another” he concluded.

[Syzygy]

Tonare Seeks Full-Time Entry

After many years of Independent's Trophy success, American automaker Tonare is seeking a team to represent their brand full-time for 2019 the TM Master Cup Series. Tonare's first full-time venture in 2012 was their infamous partnership with Power Steering Incorporated. The deal, which was largely an engine deal while PSI supplied their own chassis, ended at the end of the season with Tonare's primary driver, Anthony Griffith, was sacked by the team part-way through the season without the automaker's knowledge. On the other hand, Tonare's Independent's Trophy efforts in recent years have been much more fortuitous. Strong runs in 2014 and 2015 culminated with Leckliter Racing and Daniel Leckliter winning the Independent's Trophy in 2016.  The following season, all three Tonare teams were in contention for the Independent's Trophy and qualified for Decatur, but tripped over each other in heart-breaking fashion. Only the Clason Enterprises team made it to the finish of the race, but narrowly lost the Independent's Trophy to Gravity Racing Incorporated.  

Now, in 2019, Tonare is pushing to work their way back into the full-time ranks of the Master Cup Series. The automaker has been in talks with Hastert Racing and New Liberty Racing to provide chassis and engines for the upcoming season. If talks with these teams do not work out, Tonare is likely to continue with their Independent's Trophy effort(s), or combine their Independent's Trophy teams to create a conglomerate team to contest the full-time schedule.

[Tanrar]

Clason Enterprises, Archer Harris seeking to return in 2019

Clason Enterprises, which came up short in the Independent's Trophy bid in 2017, is looking to continue on with their TM Master Cup endeavors in 2019. It is expected that Archer Harris, the driver from Norman, OK would return with the team, the status of their sponsor, Whataburger, is currently unknown at this time, but a couple of companies have had their eye on the #79 crew after impressive runs. Clason Enterprises's relationship with Tonare will also continue into 2019.

Whether the team will continue on as an Independent's Trophy, or be a part of the rumored Tonare full-time entry is currently uncertain, but the team definitely have their eyes set on come back in some way, shape, or form for the upcoming season.

[navycook75]

Leckliter wins 2016 Independents Trophy in a underdog showing

Everyone loves a good underdog story, Buster Douglas, the 1980 US Men's Hockey team, and Leichester City all come to mind. Daniel Leckliter added himself to that list yesterday at Decatur. Written off at the beginning of the season by many motorsport analysts, Leckliter shocked everyone by finishing in the top 20 in all of his races, top 15 five times, top ten three times, and one podium, where he finished second in the always chaotic Grand Detour race after leading 30 laps and getting passed in the closing stages. Some fans say that the second place is what gave the championship to Leckliter.

Unlike most of the other Independent's Trophy winners, Leckliter has stated that he's not looking to move to a better team. He reasoned that "Nobody has ever won the Independent's Trophy twice, I want to be the first. I'm going for two."

(I figured I'd expand on my namesake's IT win if that's alright)

Leckliter says he'll return for 2019

The former Independent's Trophy winner has stated that he is "Almost certain" that he will run 2019 in hopes of becoming the first two time winner of the Independent's Trophy.

Flex-box and Flex Tape will still be his sponsors, but is Manufacturer at this time is still unknown.

[NascarAwesomeSquid24]

Ormond to run for the Independence Trophy in 2019.
The 2019 TM Master Cup Series season will be the debut season for the talented and determined 18 year old Nathan Ormond who hails from a small town of Glendora, California. Nathan Ormond who is running full-time in the ASCC had announced that he is making his TM Master Cup Series debut as he will run for the Independence Trophy with his team, Nathan Ormond Motorsports in the upcoming season."This is a huge step in my racing career and competing for the Independence Trophy in the TM Master Cup Series in 2019 will prove that I have got what it takes to be tough competitior. I know my team very well and they understanded my decision and they will wish me luck in the 2019 TM Master Cup Series season. My goal is to make tons of friends in this comming season of the TM Master Cup Series."

[day500champ1]

GLM to return for yet another Independence Trophy run

Great Lakes Motorsports will be back for yet another IT run in 2019. The team's now familar part-time #57 machine will return with Michigan native and former NAAC driver, Ryan Griffin, behind the wheel further details will follow.

[f1fan12]

Young Ohioan, Kenny Myatt looking to run some promoters option runs

One of Ohio's best young racers, Kenny Myatt is looking for a couple promoters option races in the TM Master Cup Series 2019 season. Myatt has scored a couple of Midwestern/Great Lakes region karting championships in recent years and is now looking at going to the big time, while continuing to race in his native area.

"It has always been my dream to either race in the TM Master Cup Series, or V8 Champ cars. Champ cars is quite a bit more difficult to get involved with right now. However, the TM Master Cup Series is open to young drivers like myself trying to get a start in the series. It will probably be a tough haul. However, I am looking forward to trying to break into the series somehow."

Myatt is rumored to be working on a contract with a team.

[SnakePlissken]

PSI In Talks with Nikki Curtis To Replace Zack Webster?

Two words that causes rabid excitement in the world of motorsports is--Nikki Curtis!!!! Power Steering Inc. is leaving no stone unturned in their search to replace longtime and consistent third car driver Zack Webster. Webster, who has departed PSI for greener pastures for a presumably full time ride in the TM Master Cup Series. Nikki Curtis would drive the #24 car for PSI if an agreement could be reached between the two parties. But oh man-- Nikki Curtis could be back in competitive competition once again! We all can remember how well Nikki Curtis performed in every series in every capacity in which she was involved! Can you believe it?! Nikki Curtis!!!!! Oh my!!! How well she does, did, and will do again if given an opportunity to return is a forgone conclusion because-- well--it's freaking Nikki Curtis!!!!!

Luke Warmwater's name has also popped up but he is nothing compared to the awesome prospect of the great Nikki Curtis!!!!!

[Cynon]

Devereux Not Back at Hodges-Walter Racing?

One of the biggest mysteries heading into the offseason is whether or not 3-time TM Master Cup champion Adrien Devereux will re-sign with Hodges-Walter Racing (HWR). The Frenchman, who has posted the most wins out of any driver in this decade, has spent his entire career at the wheel of Calton-Morel machinery, usually with factory support.

It's believed Devereux lobbied the team to put David Krikorian in as a regular driver, praising Krikorian's efforts on a regular basis. Hodges-Walter Racing, seemingly, does not have a 'Plan B' if Devereux opts to drive elsewhere, and there have been no obvious signs of a strained relationship between Devereux, Alan Hodges, and Carl Walter.

Ever since August, Devereux had reportedly been talking to well over half the current field about a 2019 drive.

"Adrien knows what's best for Adrien." HWR co-owner Alan Hodges commented.
"We'll know what he's doing before January. I'm not sure he knows what he's doing before then yet."

The only options that appear to be off the table is a drive at Volpi Racing Team, Lynxe Racing, and the surging Power Steering Incorporated, as all three teams have their driver lineups set, per sources. Devereux's past feuds with former teammate Luciano Soveral and Arto Kekkonen make signing as their teammates unlikely.

Devereux did not comment on his situation when asked.

Tony Durbin-led Group Purchases Katzev, Will Race as New Liberty Racing

A light was at the end of the tunnel for the struggling Katzev Engineering, in the form of an investment group led by 2007 TM Master Cup Driver's Champion and 2-time ASCC champion Tony Durbin. Durbin, who will have a majority ownership of the team, will keep most of the staff, but relocate the team to North Carolina, making them the only full-time team to be based in North Carolina (a majority of the teams are based in Indiana and Illinois).

Tony Durbin confirmed that he will be an owner and a driver, and that Yevgeny Kuznetsov's drive is safe.

"Why wouldn't I keep [Yevgeny] Geno? He's just like one of us. Hopefully, when we're talking next year, we'll be talking about how awesome his first win was." Durbin said at the press conference.

Durbin's move saves the struggling Russian team, which had been teetering on the brink of collapse since 2016, with glaring funding issues. After Carlos Roqueta abruptly left the team in early 2018, their situation worsened, with lead driver Yevgeny Kuznetsov managing only 33 points after Karjala last year.

Durbin's return to full-time competition was foreshadowed once he claimed the Independent's Trophy in 2018. While New Liberty Racing will have Katzev's supply of Calton-Morel cars, it isn't known if Durbin will stick with Calton-Morel or not.

[Cardinals5]

Olenick: "Lips Are Sealed" for 2019 Plans

Joe Olenick, who turns 28 prior to the start of the 2019 season, was very blunt regarding his timeline for announcing 2019 plans.

"It'll be announced when it's announced. My lips are sealed until then," Olenick said in a short interview for the Detroit Free Press. The notoriously terse New England native didn't give detailed explanation for the apparent uncertainty in his future.

"It's not that there's nothing to announce. Some stuff just isn't final yet, and some contracts have to expire before new ones can start. Besides, with the baby on the way, I'm focused on that. You'll probably know before he gets here though, so relax and enjoy the ride."

Olenick's wife, Jessica, a former driver herself, is due in February, shortly before the 2019 season begins.

Olenick has competed in the TM Master Cup series full-time since 2014, when he drove for Team Saar USA. Olenick has been linked to a new partnership with energy drink company Red Bull, but both sides have downplayed the rumors as speculation. When asked if he would continue to drive the #23 he has used since his days in the RROL and TM Lights, Olenick smiled but did not respond directly.

"I'd like to, if they'll let me."

Olenick offered no hints as to who "they" are.

[BBoy]

Lareau ready for 2nd chance in '19

After a difficult 2014 season that saw him unceremoniously ejected from his ride at DeGarmo-Delgado Racing, it appeared as though Brandon Lareau's career at racing's highest level was over as soon as it had begun. Towards the end of the year however, the TM Lights team Wolfesport called Lareau up to substitute for the suspended Takumi Nagata. He would run the fastest laps of the race in both of his starts with the team with teammate Jim Kerrigan taking the checkered flag in British Columbia.

Lareau has spent the past few years returning to his grassroots in late model racing, where he became the first driver to win the prestigious Snowball Derby in three consecutive years (2016-18). Outside of his late model career, he has continued to be apart of the TM Lights series as a substitute driver for a variety of teams, where he has earned a Super Sub reputation for his great performances, and working as a driving coach for those climbing up the TM ladder. In 2018, he accomplished an astonishing goal of winning his first 2 career TM Lights races with 2 different teams in the same season. The performances that Lareau has put on in the past year has reportedly caught the attention of some TM Master Cup teams, and may give his TM Master Cup career a second life.

[SnakePlissken]

Plissken out? Devereux in at PSI?!

In a startling revelation, it seems that Adrien Devereux may be close to signing with Power Steering. Inc! Both parties have gone on record and confirmed that they are, indeed, engaged in serious negotiations to bring Devereux into the PSI fold. What this means for Kurt Plissken and Greg Woodard remains to be seen. Although it seems Plissken may be the odd man out as Woodard has strong ties to Lycoia and PSI needs that support line to stay afloat.

PSI owner William Power is no stranger to trying to land a big fish. Back in 2012, Power made a concerted effort to woo the services of Leonid Roderick. Unable to ink Roderick to a deal, PSI signed an 11th hour chassis deal with Tonare and Anthony Griffith contributed to the most tumultuous year in PSI's existence. Tonare and Griffith were both sacked by season's end and Greg Woodard joined PSI in 2013 and both he and Plissken have been teammates ever since. PSI failed to acquire Roderick back in 2012, but sources close to the situation say Devereux is close to coming on board. Really close! Closer than can be imagined!

The relationship between 3-time TM Master Cup champion Adrien Devereux and Hodges-Walter Racing seems to have developed some cracks and William Power is poised to pounce and scoop up Devereux in an opportunistic maneuver. It also has been discovered that Power has made inquiries into obtain the #74 for Devereux. It seems Power wants to hammer a wedge into that crack to see of he can break it wide open.

This seems to be a strange time for Power to make a play for the 34 year old Frenchman. PSI is coming off their best season yet. PSI is coming off a 2018 season that saw them win 4 races See related story and finish third overall and both Woodard and Plissken both finishing in the top 10-- Woodard in 5th and Plissken in 7th individually. Woodard and Plissken both won 2 race events apiece. Plissken, who will turn 38 in 2019, captured his 4th win at the Round of Indianapolis last season. Plissken won his first Master Cup race at the Brickyard and is always competitive there. In fact, Devereux and Plissken battled to a spectacular finish in 2014. Devereux bested Plissken that day in an epic finish.

After completing their best season in their history PSI carries a ton of momentum heading into 2019. Can they keep it up?

That's what makes William Power's decision to rock the boat all the more curious. PSI could stand pat but that is not their owner's style. It would be quite a coup if Power manages to pull this off and he's shown he is unafraid to make bold moves in order to win that elusive Master Cup Championship. The signing of Devereux could be the brightest feather in PSI's first championship cap.

[Woody]

Watts gearing up for 2019 Karjala GP?
Rumors suggest that former James Dalton Racing and Katzev Engineering driver Woody Watts is making arrangements to prepare an entry in the 2019 Karjala Grand Prix, the 43rd running of the race.

Watts, 29 years old, hasn’t raced full-time in the TM Master Cup Series since his horrific crash at Daytona in 2011 that left him sidelined for over 3 years. Woody made a triumphant return to the series with a one-off entry in the 2014 Round of Decatur. Since then he has made few starts, all in the United States, mainly serving as a substitute for injured drivers. Watts has not participated in a race outside of the US since 2011. He did recently agree to serve as a commentator for the North-Atlantic Open Wheel Modified Asphalt Division in 2019 - which would allow him to enter the Karjala GP without conflict.

Woody Watts has only qualified for the Karjala Grand Prix twice in his career. He made the race for the first time as a member of James Dalton Racing, driving car #01 during the 2009 season; however, he was caught up in trouble early - fans may also remember a run-in he had on-track with Tony Durbin that year. In Watts’ second successful entry into the race (the 2010 running), driving the Katzev Engineering #041 car, his performance improved significantly and he tied his career-best TMMC result with a 6th-place finish. He did not qualify at Karjala in 2011, prior to his injury at Daytona.

At this point it is unclear who Watts is working with to make this happen.

[RyanB06]

Matthews: I want "one more good run"
2012 seems so long ago. To Ryan Matthews, it seems like only yesterday.

That was the season of his one (and to date, only) full-time TM Master Cup season. And while he's enjoyed successes in other divisions, claiming the inaugural FARC Elite Series championship in 2014, the perennial Independent's Trophy contender to this day wants to be back in the big leagues.

"I really want one more good (full-time) run," Matthews said in a recent interview. "Considering the successes we've had in the Independent ranks, it only makes sense. At least to me."

One factor working against the Connecticut native his is age: at age 42 (he will be 43 by the time the 2019 season starts), he's not exactly the youngest driver on the grid. As a matter of fact, he would be among the oldest drivers - if not the oldest - on the full-time grid.

But Matthews isn't worried.

"Age is just a number to me," he said. "Look at Tom Brady. He's 41 and still performing at a high level. There's no reason I can't do the same."

[Backmarker]

Ethan Everett to make Master Cup comeback?
While details remain sparse at the moment, rumors through the motorsports grapevine are suggesting that 2019 might see a return to the TM Master Cup Series by former top prospect Ethan Everett. Everett made headlines in 2009 when he won his first career races in ARLA, the TM Junior Series, TM Lights, and Master Cup- becoming the youngest winner in the history of the latter three series. However, Everett was unable to follow up on this accomplishment in two full-time seasons and defected to the ASCC in 2012.

While Everett has competed in that series for the Team Saar USA and Ocean Motorsports powerhouses, the latest rumors suggest that a Master Cup return would be as part of a new team funded by his father. Sources suggested that the 27 year old American could potentially be partnered with an older Master Cup veteran "like Craig Jonser".

[SnakePlissken]

PSI Sending Out "Feelers" For Delgado, Watts?

Lost amongst the clamor surrounding the confirmed link between Adrien Devereux and Power Steering, Inc. and the circus swirling about Nikki Curtis has been the clandestine search to replace Zack Webster. The departure of Webster leaves a hole that must be filled and the rumor is that PSI has quietly reached out to both Tom Delgado and Woody Watts in an attempt to gauge their interest.

Tom Delgado used social media to officially declare that he will entertain offers for either a full time Master Cup campaign or an Independent's Trophy run. Whether the decorated Delgado would view the opportunity to be PSI's third driver as welcome or as an insult remains to be seen. PSI has been on the rise and just garnered their best results in 2018, but Delgado, 44, has had a lengthy absence from the series and has suffered from health issues in the past. This just may be the proving ground Delgado needs to showcase his talents or he might see the offer as a slap in the face. Another detriment to a Delgado signing is his high salary demands. PSI could allocate those funds into development projects that would not be available should Delgado stick to his guns concerning his desired payscale.

On the other hand, Woody Watts would make for an intriguing signing. The talented Watts and Greg Woodard are both 29 years old and PSI could be positioning itself for a youth movement as rumors that the 37 year old Kurt Plissken's days could be numbered if Adrien Devereux joins PSI. Watts has tons of potential and if he's fully recovered from his traumatic crash at Daytona in 2011, he could be a steal. Watts' body may have healed, but has his psyche? It would be an interesting gamble for PSI to take. Like Delgado, an offer from PSI could be just what the doctor ordered for Watts. He could slowly get his feet wet without the pressure of carrying a full-time team. A limited schedule would help boost his confidence and allow Watts to showcase his talents and quiet any questions or reservations the racing world may harbor.

PSI has a third alternative to fill their third driver position that hasn't been bandied about as much as the others. PSI could promote from within. Two time ARLA/FARC champion Rip Tyler could be in line for the ride. The versatile Tyler may be the most viable option as he is familiar with the equipment and knows how things work inside the PSI garage. Tyler is currently with Power Surge America and PSA is owned by Sergio Power-- William Power's grandson. Tyler, 22, has a little more international racing experience after spending 2 seasons in the AmeriCar Road Racing Series.

[Cynon]

Regular Teams to Increase to 18?

Recent TM Master Cup series promotional material has strongly hinted that there will be 18 full time teams in 2019, up from the 17 teams that had been seen over the past few years. While there have not been any indications as to how it will affect the Independent's Trophy or race-specific Promoter's Options, rumors have run rampant.

One of the more popular rumors has implied that there will be three, instead of four, Independent's Trophy cars per race, with Promoter's Options filling as many garage stalls as available. Another rumor suggests that the number of promoter's options at some tracks could drop, with four Independent's Trophy cars still being the norm.

The series confirmed that "at least 17" teams will be running the entire season, but only 12 of those teams are known with absolute certainty.

Ellison, Johnson to Join 2019 TM Master Cup Rookie Class?

During the 2018 FARC event at the Provo Motorsports Park, representatives from "several" TM Master Cup series teams were in attendance to observe some of FARC's road racing talent. The two drivers whose names kept coming up as being considered potential TM Master Cup series talent were FARC champion Chuck Johnson and Talladega winner Trueman Ellison.

Despite his eccentric personality, Trueman Ellison's Talladega win and efforts in comparatively bad equipment have started to catch the attention of some TM Master Cup series teams. Marino Tutino told reporters that he would consider signing Ellison "immediately" if Ellison qualified for a Master License. It isn't known if Ellison would bring sponsor money with him or not.

While Johnson's age makes him seem a bit old for a rookie, it hasn't scared off TM Master Cup series owners. Ryan Matthews, who was nearly 40 when he was a rookie, was cited as a main reason why not every TM Master Cup series team is looking for the youngest possible driver. Matthews's only struggle as a rookie appeared to come from unfamiliarity with his competition, with his general understanding of a TM Master Cup car being considered far higher than is usual of a rookie. Johnson, who is seen as being similar to Matthews, could be an ideal hire for a team building for the future.

FARC champions have historically struggled somewhat at the TM Master Cup series level, the series has been a solid indicator for TM Master Cup success. Chris Johaanes and Nathan Wilson have both won at least 5 races in both categories, and former FARC stars Kurt Walker and Packer Carroll have won at the TM Master Cup level as well.

[bsoyuz]

Ellison in the sights of multiple teams

Two-time FARC race winner Trueman Ellison, has been reportedly on the crosshairs of multiple Master Cup teams, though it is currently unknown if he's eligible for a Master License. Ellison has ran a self-funded outfit since 2015, fronting the bill through his previous works as a realtor and leather jacket importer.

One of the most eccentrical figures to ever grace the Lowe Dollar Series, Ellison's age and actual birthplace are unknown, though through some investigation, it has been discovered he was born sometime in the 70s in Eastern Europe, with his first major appearance in stock car racing being a surprise win at Talladega in 2016, after floundering as a backmarker for most of that season and the previous one.

His most recent victory came around at the street course at the Karl's Superstore of Jonesboro. The fact multiple teams seem attracted to Ellison is a testament to either his ability, or his somewhat secretive funding through ''Genuine Stolen Parts''.

When questioned about it, Ellison answered the rumors through another extremely nonsensical dialogue:

Ellison: "Yes, yes I have been approach by many teams indeed (sic)"
Reporter: "Are you able to give a hint towards which teams?"
Ellison: "No, no, no, no, it is confidential, but anyway, how is your sex life?"

[gwoodard41]

PSI and Lycoia to design custom car.

The two organizations being partners in the TM Master cup and other series for several years have announced that the team will use a concept Infiltrator design dubbed the Intimidator.  This is the name that has been finalized between the team and manufacturer after there was some deliberation on what the model was going to be called. First was the Wraith, then the concept was called the Howler, and then Intimidator. While only manufacturer's decklid logo is required to be on the car. it is unknown if the team's logos will be in place for the majority of the manufacturer logos or if the manufacturer logos will be on the car in their usual places.

The remainder of the field will get the Inquisitor. The Intimidator chassis is dedicated to PSI.

[Magus978]

Delgado "Appreciative" of PSI Inquiry, but Not Interested in 3rd Driver Role

Tom Delgado spoke briefly from a charity event on Long Island to address the interest in his services from Power Steering Inc. about the 3rd driver role on their team. Delgado admitted that he wasn't interested in a 3rd driver role as that would not allow him to prove the point he's looking to make.

"Yes, PSI have been in touch. We've had several years worth of dialogue, and I'm very appreciative that they gave me a call. It was a short call, as I informed them that I was not interested in a 3rd driver role. Taking a backup role would go against the grain of the point I'm trying to prove, so it is not in my best interests at this time." Delgado said of the conversations with PSI.

It's reported that friends of Delgado, as well as his former agent, are trying to talk him out of this latest comeback, because nobody believes that a top team would actually sign him to a full time contract with his demands and expectations.

[PackerMan71]

PACKER CARROLL EXPLORING 2019 OPTIONS, GRAVITY RACING, INC. TO ALLY WITH ANOTHER TEAM FOR CUP?

Ever since his last full-time season in TM Master Cup in 2014, Packer Carroll's driving career has seen all kinds of twists and turns. In 2015, he returned to FARC and scored his third career win, but ended up 15th in points. In 2016, he decided to return to sports car racing, this time in the European Endurance Challenge Championship, where he won six of the fifteen events and the season title, his third in sports cars (the other two coming in 2006 & 2007).

In 2017, he returned to the stock car circuit, driving in the FARC Lowe Dollar Series full-time, once again behind the wheel of the #71, while also competing for the Independent's Trophy in Master Cup. His FARC campaign saw its fair share of struggles, seeing come in 16th in the overall standings. His IT attempt, however, was much more successful, with an emotional surprise victory in the Round of Ohio, his second career win and first in 5 years, when he scpred his maiden win in the 2012 Round of Quebec. It was also his first Cup win in his own equipment. The victory was a major launching pad to Packer capturing the 2017 Independent's Trophy by mere points over the Clason Enterprises team.

2018 would see Packer behind the wheel of his own equipment once again in a similar fashion to 2017. His FARC campaign was more successful than the previous season, although he fell short in his bid for back to back Independent's Trophies, finishing behind IT winner Tony Durbin.

And now, with 2019 looming large, what does the future hold for the owner of Gravity Racing, Inc.?

PACKER: The future is looking pretty good for us right now. There's a possibility that my team may finally get the chance to shine in TM Master Cup in 2019. However, we are talking with the officials about possibly forming an alliance with another team, and we'd both have an entry on the grid for next year. We're still talking with them about it, and hopefully, we'll have the kinks worked out within the next few weeks.

As for manufacturer support?

PACKER: This is something that is up in the air, but I have been talking with Cyril Volpi, and while he's not exactly comfortable giving support to any entity that isn't his own, he said he'd be willing to provide last year's model for us to use. Again, not saying this is happening, as nothing is confirmed yet. We're still exploring all of our options at this point.

As for Packer's own plans in the Cup Series for 2019?

PACKER: Well, I hate to say it, but it's another question mark. I'm more than willing to field offers if there are any teams interested, but assuming I don't get any and my team gets onto the grid full-time, then that's where I'll be. But we've got a while before we set anything in stone. Once things start to come together, we'll hold a press conference and endulge our 2019 plans accordingly.

If Packer were to return to full-time Cup competition in 2019, that would leave his seat in the FARC Lowe Dollar Series open, and he has said that he will be looking into the free agent field for a possible replacement, since all of his feeder system drivers are already signed to their respective rides for 2019.

[The_Wall_91]

Tony Long: "I'm Not Ready for TM Master Cup"

Michigan's Tony Long has always had a dream of driving in the TM Master Cup series. Today, reporters from local newspapers asked Tony about what his plans for 2019 are.

"At this point, I'm not sure what I want to do" Long stated. "The past couple of years have been full of ups and downs and to be honest, I have no clue what I want to do this year."

Tony's career has seen drifting through several series and has never seemed to reach the highs of 2016 when he won 4 races and claimed the Dash Cup Aspira Juniors championship. Outside of 2016, Long has struggled to find much success outside of several appearances with mild success.

When Long was asked about TMMC, he was hesitant to answer for several seconds until he finally responded.

"I don't think I am ready for that kind of a jump" Long said. "The talent level is so high in TM Master Cup that you need to enter with either a lengthy resume or enough backing...and I don't really have either. I have always wanted to join the series to race against the best in the world but given what has happened since 2016, I will be too far behind to attract attention for the next step of my career."

"I know my brother (Ryan Long) will support me like he has my whole life" Long said. "We both know we have nowhere near the money to afford it but I am going to keep my hopes up and maybe someone will give me a call or wants to have a meeting with me. I am willing to work as hard as I ever have to earn a chance, I am willing to be a development driver, I just want my competitiveness to be seen and respected. I know I am young and I want to reach my dreams. If I fail, oh well. I will know that I gave it everything I have to reach my dreams and maybe, I will make it or break trying to make it."

[UndyingLight]

Derrike Chaiter cited to return if offered
The 29 year old Australian driver, who resides from Brisbane, Australia who drove for Delgado-Degarmo Enterprises and had a few good results, looks to return for the 2019 TMMC season with any team that he feels is worth being offered by. 

The Aussie native tends to be on the brash side of things, but getting to know him under his tight layer shows his calm, yet caring disposition for his competitors and his sport. He worked his "magic" on Alexa Lake, the FARC team owner of Master Sport Racing - so on as that Chaiter and Lake are now married. Lake herself expressed wishes to run in TMMC, but only if anybody would pick up the Floridian native who has yet to win a FARC race, and nearly lost her own team.

Master Sport Racing to bid for IT?
Master Sport Racing, as aforementioned is looking to potentially expand their network from and to FARC and higher leagues in efforts to get the team stronger and financially sound. Though the team is not in immediate danger, Alexa Lake-Chaiter or Alexa Lake, as she intends to be called spoke that,
 -"Despite the facts or reasonings that Master Sport Racing almost delved into the pit of bankruptcy, the unbelievable outpouring of support has given this team a new light, and it has always been my dream to race in the highest of all racing statures, the 'Master Cup.' If it so depends that this team is not stable enough to expand yet, my hands are out there for anybody who would like to swoop me up for their team to test for, or even drive in TMMC for 2019 for."

[Cynon]

Lake Iblis, Cape Cod International Raceway Join TM Master Cup in 2019

The first of the big announcements for the New Year is that two more North American sports car tracks will be added to the TM Master Cup series for the 2019 season. One of those venues, the Cape Cod International Raceway, in Massachusetts, last hosted the TM Master Cup series in 2000, before the date was assimilated into the Champ Car schedule. CCIR still remains a fixture on most road racing circuits, and has hosted many categories, large and small, over its storied history. A track spokesperson said that it's very likely that the track is pursuing a FARC date as well.

There have been implications that the addition of CCIR puts the New York City race in some doubt. The NYC race has been fraught with difficulties ever since it came on to the TM Master Cup series calendar, but has been one of the more well-attended events.

The Lake Iblis Sports Car Course is a Canadian venue that has been a fixture on the TM Canada tour for 20 years. While the track has changed names several times, it's known for putting on a fiery show every time stock cars have raced there. The all-time record for stock cars was set by Scott Hamilton in his first season in the TM Canada tour, back in 2008, a record that has stood for over a decade. It should be noted, however, that in 2008, the TM Canada tour allowed TM Master Cup series cars to compete, with TM Canada's tires.

While the venue is comparatively old and in a very awkward location, it has been a hot destination for Canadian road racing. Lenard test driver Jacob Kard considers Lake Iblis to be the closest he will ever get to a home track. Kard never won there in the TM Canada series, finishing 2nd in all 3 of his appearances there.

[Cynon]

2019 Entry List Confirmed

As had been rumored earlier in the month, 18 teams made the cut for the 2019 TM Master Cup series season.

BlackDiamond Racing
DeGarmo Enterprises
Frank Lawrence Racing
Hastert Motorsports
Hodges-Walter Racing
Matthews Motorsports
Maximus Racing
Mitchell & Sons Racing
Lenard International
Lynxe Racing
New Liberty Racing
Ortega Motorsport
Power Steering Incorporated
Richter Motorsports
Scuderia Tutino
Team EFR
Tonare Motorsports
Volpi Racing Team

While not every team has resigned its drivers, most of the free agent market is expected to fall into place within the coming weeks. As has been the case every year, some teams have rebranded before the start of winter testing.

One team that is expected to do so is the reigning champion Richter Motorsports. Carl Richter has run the team out of the same building as his Champ Car team for the last two years, and it is likely he will operate both teams under the same name. Arto Kekkonen, the 2018 TM Master Cup champion, has already released merchandise with the number 1 on it.

Another team that is very likely to run under a different name is Tonare Motorsports, as their listed team name is reportedly only temporary. Tonare's presence comes as a realization of a dream for the American constructor, who get a chance to run the entire campaign for the first time.

Frank Lawrence is not likely to rebrand his team at the 11th hour for a sponsor, as he did in 2018, or in years prior when Launch Energy was a title sponsor for the team. Lawrence's outfit ran into financial problems late in 2018, but he kept the team afloat with solid performances.

Rumors persisted in 2018 that Ortega Motorsport would rebrand itself as Revision Motorsports, but team owner Arturo Ortega Sr. did not do so. The team hopes for better outings in its third year on the tour.

Even though Thomas Mitchell is no longer the active team principal at Mitchell & Sons Racing, and that his role will be filled by his grandson, the team name is not expected to change.

Matthews Motorsports's inclusion may seem overdue, as many felt they were ready to compete full-time in 2017, given that they have the deepest driver development team in all of motorsports. They have never competed full-time in the TM Master Cup series before, and, on paper, are the biggest wildcard entering 2019, with no expectations or obvious pitfalls.

[navycook75]

Leckliter rumored to land Tonare ride

Word around social media is that Daniel Leckliter will be driving for the now full time Tonare team. Leckliter, whose last full time run was his abysmal 2009 season with the Camelot Team, has been an Independent's Trophy staple since 2012, and even won the Independent's Trophy in 2016 with a Tonare. The rumor has been debunked by fans, but Leckliter himself has kept quiet about it. Leckliter has been vocal about staying as an Independent until he wins the elusive second title, and he stated in 2012 that his 2009 season killed his motivation to run full time for the time being.

Not much else is known about the rumor as of now.

[Cynon]

Adrien Devereux Signs with Mitchell & Sons Racing

The free agent market has been blown wide open. In a hugely unexpected move, three-time TM Master Cup series driver's champion Adrien Devereux has signed a multi-year deal with Mitchell & Sons Racing to drive one of their Calton-Morels in 2019. Devereux, who currently has the most wins in the 2010s, stated that his main reasons for joining the Mitchell & Sons team were driven by a need for new challenges.

"Alan [Hodges] and Carl [Walter] run a top-class organization, but I needed a new challenge to keep myself at my best." Devereux stated in the press release.
"Over the past few years, I've been paying a lot of attention to the history of the series, and I learned that the Mitchells have been a championship team before, but it doesn't seem right that they've never won it with the number that means the most to them."

Randall Mitchell stated that the Devereux deal fell into place very quickly.

"Adrien wanted to set up a meeting with us before December, and we got through a process I've seen take a few weeks done in just a few business days. I was impressed." Mitchell stated. His expression changed.
"Some of you in the media might not be surprised at that, he looks at home in professional circles. You might wonder how he'd fit at a team like ours, but Adrien was right at home with all the colorful people in the shop like they were brothers and sisters."

Devereux admitted that rumors of a Power Steering Incorporated move were real at one point.

"I did talk to PSI more than once, and that's a good team with a lot of good people on it." Devereux stated.
"Of all of the other teams I had talked to, PSI was one of four where talks became serious. It's a good environment for the people that are there, because they won four races last year."

No teammate for Devereux was announced, but it's suspected that Devereux will have a hand in who his eventual teammate will be. Former Mitchell & Sons driver Chris Davenport and the team's affiliated TM Lights driver, Kareem Washington, are both supposedly on the team's shortlist.

[Woody]

Watts Mum on PSI Interest
At a media event for the upcoming RROL NOMAD season, former TM Master Cup Series regular Woody Watts was questioned about rumors of interest from TMMC staple organization Power Steering, Inc. in regards to their opening at the team’s third driver role. Watts is set to be part of the commentary team for the RROL NOMADs in 2019.

“PSI is a great team. They’ve earned their keep in Master Cup and, lately, they’ve been a force to be reckoned with - that’s for sure. I think any professional stock car racer would be honored to have the opportunity to join them. Will Power and his team have a very respectable reputation - you know?

“As for me, I’m not done racing Master Cup cars yet. When my plans for 2019 are set - I will announce them. I am working on making it to Karjala this season, possibly Indy. A driving role that is less than full time is realistic at this point.

“With that said, my primary focus is serving as a full-time commentator of the North-Atlantic Open-Wheel Modified Asphalt Division... so I’d prefer to keep the topic today on the NOMADs and the collective excitement for the return of an organized open-wheel modified tour. I’ll answer any questions you have regarding the RROL NOMADs and I will be making no further comment today about my own racing career or the TM Master Cup Series. Your cooperation would be appreciated.”

With the majority of the races on the 2019 RROL NOMAD schedule being held on Wednesdays, it appears that Watts would be able to pull off a third-driver role without much conflict.

[bsoyuz]

Macena re-joining BlackDiamond for full-time assault?

After three years in Europe, far away from the American tracks, seems like Gabriel Macena could be bound to a return to BlackDiamond Racing, team in which he won in more than once occasion in his TM Lights tenure.

While there has yet to be any further confirmation of such, Macena has been avoiding media outlets increasingly over the offseason, leading some to believe a deal with one of several teams may be closer to reality than thought.

Sources within BlackDiamond Racing declared Macena has met with team members and officials, though the content of the conversations has not been disclosed. Both Macena and BlackDiamond Racing did not deny the meeting, though, through a statement Macena only declared the meeting to be "an opportunity to meet some friends from my TM Lights career", the statement sent through his Dash Cup team finished with: "at the moment I cannot confirm any rumours regarding the 2019 Master Cup season, and I'd like to have my privacy respected through this offseason period".

[BBoy]

LAREAU TO HODGES-WALTER?

In wake of the shocking news of Adrien Devereux's departure from Hodges-Walter Racing, speculation immediately began to run rampant in regards to who would take Devereux's seat at his old team. Many names have been thrown around including Ash Bridges, Ebenezer Quiggles Jr., and Mariano Zavala. A surprise entrant into the Hodges-Walter sweepstakes appears to be one Brandon Lareau, despite not having made an attempt at a full-time TM Master Cup schedule since his 2014 campaign that went array. When not running his late model across the country, Lareau has been a mainstay in the TM Lights paddock, providing advice and helping the new drivers get a hold of the cars. When needed, Lareau has heeded the call of TM Lights teams who have needed a substitution for either a driver being ill, hurt, or suspended. He has become a popular option for teams, as he has found himself in victory lane 7 times in TM Lights since 2015, including winning with two different teams this past season.

Despite this success, Lareau has seemingly been blackballed from the TM Master Cup series, which is believed to be a result of his confrontation with his previous team owner Owen DeGarmo where it is rumored that fisticuffs broke out between owner and driver and fellow team owner Tom Delgado having to restrain Lareau from further conflict. Nothing has ever been officially said about the incident by either driver or owners, but it is assumed that DeGarmo has made a strong effort of keeping Lareau out of the series by any means necessary. How long however can DeGarmo keep a clearly talented driver from reclaiming his dream at the highest level of racing?

[PackerMan71]

GRAVITY RACING, INC. POTENTIALLY BUYING FRANK LAWRENCE RACING?

After the 2019 full-time grid was set, it appeared that Gravity Racing, Inc. had been left out in the cold once again. However, there are now reports circulating that GRI might be in the process of potentially buying out Frank Lawrence Racing. FLR reportedly began running into financial difficulties near the end of 2018, but somehow managed to stay afloat. However, sponsorship woes have left the team's future in doubt, and Frank Lawrence has seemingly reached out to other teams to see if they want to at least agree to a partial buyout of his team. Gravity Racing, Inc. seems to have answered that call.

GRI team owner Packer Carroll briefly commented on the reports.

PACKER: At the moment, I can't confirm that we've purchased Frank Lawrence Racing in some capacity. However, what I can say is that we're in discussions about it. If we manage to reach a deal, then you'll hear it from Frank Lawrence first, after which we'll hold our own press conference, so stay tuned.

[Cynon]

Saul Fischel Signs with Lenard International

In a unsurprising move, the 2018 TM Lights champion, Saul Fischel announced that he will make the move to the TM Master Cup series for the 2019 season, becoming the youngest driver since Ethan Everett to compete in the series. Fischel, who turns 19 in April, won 9 races in the TM Lights series, which overcame him missing the first three events in 2018 due to not being old enough to compete.

Fischel's sponsorship package allowed for a rigorous training and testing program, all of which were key factors in his historic championship run. All are expected to follow him into the TM Master Cup series, but his car's primary sponsor is still expected to be the Shafer Group. Lenard International is coming off of one of the worst seasons in the team's history, an ugly, drama filled affair that led to Luciano Soveral walking out on the team immediately after the Round of Decatur.

"They keep telling me that TM Lights is a training ground... but I knew I was ready for this. I've always been ready for my debut." Fischel said in the official press release.
"I'm here because I'm one of the best in the world. I'm not going to say I can win this championship on my first try, but I've done that with everything else. I got good genes, I guess."

Fischel is a third generation driver in the TM Master Cup series, but both his father, David, and grandfather, Gal, only competed on road courses and have a total of 9 starts between them. David Fischel is more known for a 4-year career in the GP1 World Championship which ended in 1997, and a brief stint in American open wheel and TM Master Cup racing afterwards.

Fischel's main rivals in the TM Lights series are expected to land TM Master Cup series rides of their own.

[Cardinals5]

24 Hours of Daytona Ride May Hint at Olenick's Future

DAYTONA BEACH, FL - TM Master Cup Series driver Joe Olenick is once again taking part in the 24 Hours of Daytona; for the first time, however, he is not behind the wheel of a vehicle produced by the Saar Motor Company. Instead, he will be driving a Calton-Morel in his first foray into the prototype class (his previous entries have seen him driving in GT class for both Saar and Tremwell). Does this, perhaps, hint at a Calton-Morel ride in store for the 2019 season? With Adrien Devereux moving to the famed Mitchell and Sons team, speculation about who will take over his role at Hodges-Walter Racing (the Calton-Morel factory team) has been rampant throughout TM Master Cup series circles.

Olenick, of course, was quick to downplay any connections people might be seeing and offered a simpler explanation.

"Saar doesn't run the prototype class, and my goal was to have an overall win in the 24. That's something you need to be in prototypes to do," Olenick stated. "Winning in class (in 2016 and 2018) was great, but the overall win will be my focus now as long as I'm running this one."

When asked why this deal took so long to announce, Olenick admitted that "contracts did have something to do with it. We had to wait until the new year to officially put pen to paper, but I was submitted as one of the drivers back in October." TM Master Cup Series contracts traditionally run through the calendar year, rather than the end of the season.

[Mother of Invention]

DHRE looking for free agents!


After Keegan Mallory got the R&D testing gig for Lycoia, DHRE was left in a bit of a situation.

"I'm glad Keegan got a promotion, I guess Provo did wonders for him. But as of right now we got new investors from North Carolina and now we're looking for a driver. We got funding for the four IT races, the triple crown and two promoter options, at least that allows us to be pickier about the driver. That being said if a driver has funding and wants to run an additional race or two for us I won't argue. We could open up a couple additional slots with PO's."

"With that all being said we can get Keegan to run at least the triple crown events in a second car with some funding. So hopefully he won't be to unavailible this year"

[Milan655]

Alessandro Rossini aiming to return to TMMC grid in 2019
Former TMMC race-winner Alessandro Rossini is reportedly keen to make a return to the TM Master Cup grid, having left the series in 2017 for a drive with FIAM in GT endurance racing.

"I'm really looking at going back there [TMMC], it's a special feeling to be in that paddock and the atmosphere is incomparable elsewhere - there is no bigger feeling than winning Karjala or Decatur," commented Rossini in an interview with Autosprint.

"Racing GT cars with FIAM these past few years has obviously been a fun and interesting experience, and it has been an honour especially with racing in Le Mans and taking some strong results with the Imago FIAM Aurelia GT against firm opposition on some of the worlds best racing venues, but it really isn't the same."

"I'll be on the grid in some manner next year, with who I'm not sure but I've been speaking with some old friends and we are moving forward with plans so far. We'll have to see but I'm hopeful."

Rumours suggest that the Italian has been in contact with both of his former teams', Scuderia Tutino and Volpi Racing Team, whom he has strong connections with following strong stints with both teams.  

He has also been linked with a drive at FIAM who are presently working towards an Independents' Trophy entry with their long-term partners Lugo Motorsport. FIAM's 70GT has proven strong in the last 5 iterations of the Karjala Grand Prix and the Round of Indianapolis, but are yet to commit to a full-time project with European Touring Cars are a priority. Their long-serving Formula B junior drivers Vincenzo Fochesato and Giancarlo Corelli considered the most obvious choices behind the 30-year old.

[Cynon]

Lareau Signs with Ortega for 2019

Ortega Motorsport announced via social media that they have signed American TM Master Cup veteran Brandon Lareau to partner Héctor Serrano for the 2019 season. Lareau has spent the past three seasons in a substitute role in both the TM Master Cup and TM Lights levels. Serrano was reportedly Lareau's biggest advocate within the team, who were wavering on who to sign to take José Luis Martinez's place. Despite a cycling accident and hasty return derailing his 2018 campaign, and ultimately, his full-time drive, Martinez is expected to stay as the team's third driver.

"Brandon brings a lot of experience getting the most out of a car, even in tough circumstances. That's what makes winners and champions." team owner Arturo Ortega said in the press release.
"He came to us very highly recommended, and his skill set fits in where I think we have been weaker. He will definitely make us and Héctor better."

While largely thought of as an uncontested lead driver within Ortega Motorsport, given the fairly large performance and personality differences between him and his teammates, Serrano stated that he expects to enjoy working with Lareau.

"Brandon [Lareau] is an amazingly hard worker, and I couldn't imagine anyone better to have in the garage with me." Serrano stated in the team announcement.
"He's going to be a lot tougher to beat every week. Not to be mean to José, he had issues, but you get lazy if your teammate is too easy to beat every race."

Lareau's workmanship is shown with his recent TM Lights exploits. In 2016, Lareau, who was without a regular drive, filled in for Bryce Neil for two TM Lights races, sitting on the pole in both of them, winning his first race back at Provo and finishing third in the following race. He was picked up later in the year by Wolfesport for three races near the end of the year, scoring points in all them. Lareau was left on the sidelines at the start of 2017, but he made history by being the first driver to win three TM Lights races with three different teams in the same season, BlackDiamond Racing, Ortega Motorsport, and Team Timothy. He only started 7 of the 18 races, but his performances earned him another TM Lights ride with Team Timothy. Lareau scored two wins early in 2018, but could do little to stop Saul Fischel's historic championship run.

[Woody]

Watts to PSI rumors heating up
Links between 2-time RROL Champion Woody Watts and Power Steering Incorporated have been more prevalent with higher frequency in recent weeks. Since the pre-season media event for the upcoming RROL NOMAD season, Watts has been spotted at PSI headquarters - obviously in talks with the organization. PSI is looking for a driver to replace Zach Webster in the team's third car - Webster appears poised for a full-time go in 2019. In addition to Woody Watts, ASCC regular Nikki Curtis, Luke Warmwater, and Tom Delgado have all been linked with the opening at PSI. All indications are that Curtis appears to be staying in the ASCC; while Tom Delgado is reportedly seeking a full-time opportunity in Master Cup. Watts' recent visit to PSI headquarters is the most solid evidence of a conclusion to the search so far....

Woody Watts' record so far in TMMC leaves something to be desired, with 9 top-10s in 35 starts since late 2007 (yet to score a top-5); however, if Watts ended up in PSI's third car, it would arguably be the most established organization he will have ever driven for in the TM Master Cup Series. The prospect is certainly intriguing.

[RyanB06]

Matthews signs Ben Atkins for second seat

Matthews Motorsports wasted little time making an impact leading into its first full-time season in TM Master Cup, inking Dash Cup veteran and former Tutino lead driver Ben Atkins for its second car.

The 31-year-old English driver was one of the more higher-profile free agents coming into the 2019 season, and team boss Ryan Matthews said he's happy to have one of his good friends on board.

"I'm thrilled to be able to bring Ben into the fold," Matthews said. "I've competed against him for years, and I have nothing but the utmost respect for his talents. I'm looking forward to working with him for a change."

With the second seat at Matthews now spoken for, focus now shifts to the team's third car. It's believed that longtime Matthews test driver and current TM Lights entrant Carter Fitzgerald has the inside track for the slot. Fitzgerald, who scored an emotional home-track victory at Burlington Raceway last season, also competed against Atkins in Dash Cup, where she scored two victories.

[Sponsored content]