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Stephen Schnapf leads a gaggle of cars including Kyle Cummins (3), Robert Ballou (12) and Brandon Mattox during Saturday’s Spring Showdown co-sanctioned by USAC AMSOIL National Sprint Car Series and Midwest Sprint Car Series at Indiana’s Tri-State Speedway. (Neil Cavanah Photo)

Midwest Sprint Car Series Closes Down

The Midwest Sprint Car Series is ceasing operations, effective immediately, according to a Facebook post released by series officials on Thursday night. 

This year signaled the final season of MSCS as a sanctioning body. 

“The series began in 2001 and along the way featured many legendary drivers. However, it was the weekend drivers and those just starting out who made the series great as MSCS provided them the opportunity to learn and win meaningful races and championships,” the statement read. 

Series owner Tom Helfrich added, “MSCS was a very good series with more than its share of memorable moments and competitive racing teams. When we purchased the series, we felt there was a need to continue and build upon what the foundation of the series was as it moved forward.

“In recent years, there have been fewer drivers who were able to follow the entire series because of other commitments and more choices to race elsewhere. The sport itself has changed since 2001 and we feel we are at a point going forward that we cannot continue to deliver the value we feel is up to our standards and that is the main reason for our decision.

“Hopefully, in our past 20 years, we have brought success to promoters, racers and enjoyment to the fans.”

Helfrich is also the promoter of Indiana’s Tri-State Speedway. 

“Our sport is alive and well. Everyone should understand and be assured that Tri-State Speedway will continue to provide sprint car racing along with other race events as in the past. Our goal is still the same — we are ready and willing to work with all involved for the continued growth of non-wing sprint car racing at our track,” Helfrich said.