22/10/2026
🏁NAVARRO SHINES AT SALEM, VICKERS CLINCHES CHAMPIONSHIP🏁
When the green flag dropped on the inaugural 2026 Mini Outlaw Touring Series season in April at the Indianapolis Speedrome, Jaxson Navarro had yet to capture a checkered flag in the Mini Outlaw division. By the time the final checkered flag flew at The Salem Speedway, the 17-year-old had collected four victories across Touring Series and Speedrome competition, all coming in figure-8 racing. In fact, no driver in the Mini Outlaw ranks won more figure-8 races this season. It was a year in which promise turned into production, and with bigger goals already in sight, Navarro has positioned himself as a driver to watch heading into 2027.
After Steve Vickers set fast time with a Salem Mini Outlaw track-record lap of 19.501 seconds, a nine-car invert was drawn, setting the stage for the season finale. Navarro wasted little time making his way to the front. On lap two, he took the lead from Mike Coop and never looked back, leading the final 24 laps to secure the victory. For much of the race, Navarro had his driving mentor, Vickers, hot on his tail, but the young driver steadily built a comfortable advantage and drove away to his first victory outside the Speedrome. In the process, the driver of the No. 22 sent a clear message to the competition: he’ll be a serious contender when the 2027 season rolls around.
Meanwhile, Vickers entered the season finale with a comfortable points advantage over teammate Garrett Fox, knowing a strong performance would put the championship within reach. After securing fast time, and with other competitors forced to drop out of the starting field, the championship was mathematically clinched as soon as the green flag waved. Vickers went on to finish second, while another teenager, Logan Thinnes, brought home a third-place finish.
As the saying goes, “The kids are alright!” Their performances are a testament to the depth, talent, and diversity of competition in the Mini Outlaw ranks. Veteran racers Mike Coop and Rodney Smith rounded out the top five, adding even more experience to an impressive finishing order.
For Vickers, the championship marks the fourth championship of his racing career. It adds another accomplishment to an already impressive résumé that includes the 2025 Mini Outlaw Speedrome track championship, the 2007 Bomber Figure 8 Speedrome track championship, and a Street Stock Speedrome track championship in the 80s.
There was something fitting about Vickers capturing another championship on a night when Navarro stood in victory lane celebrating a breakthrough of his own. During his victory lane interview, Navarro made sure to thank Vickers first, a meaningful acknowledgment of the mentor who has helped guide his development. It was a moment that perfectly captured what makes the Mini Outlaws special: fierce competition on the track, paired with the respect and relationships that extend far beyond it.
With the 2026 season officially in the books, attention now turns to the offseason and the building anticipation for 2027. Before looking too far ahead, however, it’s time to give this season, its drivers, and everyone who helped make it possible the recognition they deserve.
We’re fortunate to have the opportunity to celebrate the year that was on November 21 at the Indianapolis Speedrome Awards Banquet. We hope to see you there as we recognize the accomplishments, memorable moments, and people who made the inaugural Mini Outlaw Touring Series season one to remember!
