NASCAR, F1, and IndyCar Weekend Highlights: Josh Berry Wins, Lando Norris Secures Pole, St. Petersburg Preparations Underway

Yesterday was an action-packed day in the world of auto racing, with major events in NASCAR, Formula 1, and IndyCar. Let's dive into the highlights from each series.

NASCAR Cup Series: Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Josh Berry claimed his first career Cup Series victory in a thrilling finish at Las Vegas. The Wood Brothers Racing driver battled side-by-side with Daniel Suárez in the closing laps, ultimately pulling away for the win. Ryan Preece, William Byron, and Ross Chastain rounded out the top five.

The race featured multiple cautions and a dramatic restart with 19 laps to go. Berry's win marks the 101st victory for the legendary Wood Brothers team.

In the points standings, Christopher Bell maintains his lead, but Berry's win vaults him into playoff contention.

Formula 1: Australian Grand Prix Qualifying

Lando Norris secured pole position for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix with a blistering lap of 1:15.096. His McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri will start alongside him, giving the team a front-row lockout.

Reigning champion Max Verstappen could only manage third, while George Russell impressed with fourth for Mercedes. The big surprise was Yuki Tsunoda qualifying fifth for the newly-renamed Racing Bulls team.

Ferrari struggled, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton only managing 7th and 8th respectively. Rookies Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Liam Lawson both failed to make it out of Q1 in their debuts.

IndyCar: St. Petersburg Grand Prix

While the race took place on Sunday, yesterday saw teams and drivers arriving in Florida for the season opener. Qualifying is set for Saturday, with defending champion Alex Palou looking to start his title defense strong.

Josef Newgarden, winner of last year's St. Pete race, is aiming for a repeat victory. Rookie Linus Lundqvist will be making his full-time debut with Chip Ganassi Racing.

Looking Ahead

NASCAR heads to Phoenix Raceway next weekend for the United Rentals Work United 500. Last year's winner, William Byron, will be looking to defend his title.

Formula 1 kicks off its season proper with the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday. All eyes will be on whether McLaren can convert their qualifying pace into race victory.

IndyCar's season begins in earnest with practice sessions starting Friday in St. Petersburg. The tight street circuit always produces exciting racing to start the year.

That's all for today's auto racing recap. Tune in tomorrow for more high-octane action from the world of motorsports!