Strap in, ARCA Menards fans, because the Atlas 150 at Iowa Speedway is proof that this series knows how to keep us on edge. With only 27 cars on the entry list, it’s not exactly a supersized lineup, but who needs quantity when you’ve got quality drivers ready to battle it out on one of the trickiest short tracks in North America?
Iowa Speedway’s 0.875-mile oval is where perseverance meets precision, with every corner testing these drivers’ skills and sometimes their patience. But what really spices up this event is how it serves as the penultimate race in the 2025 ARCA Menards Series East season. Translation? Points and pride are on the line here, and nobody’s holding back.
For starters, this race is set to showcase rising stars and seasoned pros alike. You’ve got Eloy Sebastian piloting the Rev Racing No. 2, a car that has as many expectations strapped to it as track bars. Mike Basham steps in with Fast Track Racing in the No. 9, while Trevor Ward, a familiar name, returns in his Fast Track Racing No. 01.
New to the scene? Enter Colby Evans, making his ARCA Menards debut in the No. 86 Toyota Camry. Every debut’s nerve-wracking, but doing it on a stage like this? Talk about trial by fire. Meanwhile, Kris Wright jumps behind the wheel of the Venturini Motorsports No. 15 for one of his three scheduled starts. Wright’s known for keeping us guessing, so expect drama whenever his Toyota Camry’s on screen.
The No. 27 Toyota Camry owned by none other than Tim Richmond himself is running this weekend. Seriously, who does that anymore? Richmond takes independence to a whole new level, and honestly, it’s refreshing to see someone betting on themselves in such a big way.
After a crash at Lucas Oil Raceway (ouch, still hurts just thinking about that), Vaughn’s keeping the streak alive in the ARCA Menards Series for Maples Motorsports’ No. 67. Love him or hate him, you’ve got to admire the grit it takes to suit up week after week.
With only one race left after Iowa in the East Series season, things are heating up. For many ARCA Menards drivers, this isn’t just about crossing the finish line first. It’s about holding onto slim championship hopes or showing their sponsors they’re worth every penny.
Built in 2006, Iowa Speedway may not have the history of venues like Daytona, but it doesn’t play second fiddle to anyone. This pavement beast strikes the ideal balance of speed and strategy, demanding maximum effort to find those elusive perfect laps. The banking in the turns (12-14°) lets drivers carry aggressive speed, but managing tire wear is a whole different ballgame. Add to that unpredictable Midwestern weather, and this race is a cocktail of tension and excitement.
Tune in Friday, Aug. 1, at 7 p.m. ET to catch the 150-lap ARCA Menards showcase live on Fox Sports 1 or stream it on the Fox Sports app. Whether you’re here to watch rising stars, championship contenders, or seasoned vets, the Atlas 150 promises classic ARCA Menards action you don’t want to miss
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