The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series made its first visit to the Arkansas oval, opening a two-event weekend with the Jason Johnson Classic presented by FK Rod Ends. The night is always special for Carson Macedo and Jason Johnson Racing, as it celebrates the team’s late founder, the “Ragin’ Cajun,” and family and friends gathered in Texarkana to honor him.
The 41-lap main event was chaotic. Cole Macedo led early while chasing his first Series win, then Logan Schuchart took command before a run-in with a spun car in Turn 1 ended his bid. That handed David Gravel the lead with six laps left, with Carson Macedo in the No. 41 right behind him. After the restart, Macedo tried a slide job, and Gravel answered with a crossover to retake the position. A lap later, Macedo ripped the cushion, squeezed past Gravel, and held on through the final two circuits as the stands erupted.
Macedo thanked car owner Philip Dietz and called the win especially meaningful, noting Johnson’s family was there, including his parents and son Jaxx.
It was Macedo’s seventh win of 2026 and the team’s second Jason Johnson Classic victory, following Gravel’s win in the 2019 inaugural running. It was Macedo’s 65th career World of Outlaws win, one shy of tying Bobby Davis Jr. and Craig Dollansky for 14th all-time.
