In a strategic move that sets the stage for an exciting new era in stock car racing, Nitro Motorsports is proud to announce that it has officially acquired Venturini Motorsports, one of the most successful and storied organizations in ARCA Menards Series history. Announcing the sale in April of 2025, Nitro Motorsports has taken over the assets of one of the winningest programs in ARCA history and will utilize that to continue the vision for performance, driver development, and long-term growth across multiple levels of motorsport.
Founded in 1973 by Bill and Cathy Venturini in Chicago, Venturini Motorsports began as a husband-and-wife dream that grew into a generational legacy. Bill Venturini, a two-time ARCA Menards Series champion, built the team through grit, loyalty, and a deep love for the sport. The team made history with the creation of ‘The Ultra Blue Crew’, the first all-female pit crew in motorsports history, setting a precedent for innovation and inclusion.
Son of Bill and Cathy, Billy Venturini, took over the reins in 2007. He brought a new vision and energy to the family legacy. A former driver himself, Billy understood the challenges young racers face and dedicated himself to creating a program that provided real opportunities for the next generation. Moving from a hobby racer to build and produce race winners, the Venturini Motorsports name became synonymous with winning. Under Billy’s leadership, Venturini Motorsports evolved from a family race team into one of the most respected and influential driver development programs in NASCAR. The team became a launchpad for future stars, including Joey Logano, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Alex Bowman, Corey Heim, Christian Eckes, Chandler Smith, and Jesse Love, among many others.
“My dream of becoming a race car driver faded, but they were never forgotten,” said Billy Venturini. “When I found myself in a position to help young drivers chase their own dreams, I poured everything I had—both the lessons from my failures and the hopes I once carried—into building the most complete, meaningful driver development program I could. Now, I am happy to pass the torch to Nick, Joe, and their Nitro Motorsports program.”
Founded and led by Nick Tucker and Joe Tovo, Nitro Motorsports has rapidly expanded from its roots in karting to become a multi-series national powerhouse. The team competes in everything from national-level karting to the Toyota GR Cup North America, Trans Am Series Presented by Pirelli, ARCA Menards Series, and more, while developing elite talent and fielding competitive race programs at every level.
“This is a huge moment for Nitro Motorsports,” said Nick Tucker, Co-Owner of Nitro Motorsports. “Venturini Motorsports is a name synonymous with success and excellence. We’ve already started planning for 2026 and beyond, and our entire team is energized to build upon the incredible foundation that Billy created, built, and managed. The future is bright, and we’re ready to continue their winning legacy.”
“Relocating to North Carolina and working side-by-side with Nick on this venture is an unbelievable opportunity,” added Joe Tovo, Partner at Nitro Motorsports. “The history and success of Venturini Motorsports combined with Nitro’s energy and vision for the future make this a perfect match. We’re excited to grow together and take this program to new heights.”
The new Nitro–Venturini structure will combine the name, heritage, and championship pedigree of Venturini Motorsports with Nitro’s resources, development programs, and technical expertise. Together, the organization will focus on maintaining championship-caliber performance in ARCA while expanding deeper into the NASCAR ecosystem under the banner: Nitro Motorsports – Driven by Venturini Legacy.
Further announcements, including 2026 program details and driver lineups, will be shared in the coming weeks.
For more information on Nitro Motorsports, please visit them online or contact Nick Tucker via email HERE or visit them online at www.RaceNitro.com.