Race Face Announces Estela Stillwell and Mikey Wheeler Jr. in Race Face Next Class of 2026
Tampa, FL — Dec.1, 2025 — Race Face Brand Development proudly welcomes two rising stars—Estela Stillwell and Mikey Wheeler Jr.—as the newest members of the Race Face Next Class of 2026, the organization’s premier development program supporting young drivers on and off the track.
The Race Face Next program delivers structured media training, branding, sponsorship development, communication skills, and long-term career guidance designed to prepare emerging racers for success at higher levels of motorsports.
Estela Stillwell — Eight-Year-Old Sensation Making Waves in Dirt Racing
At just eight years old, Estela Stillwell of Gastonia, North Carolina, is already establishing herself as a standout talent in the junior dirt-track ranks.
She began racing in March 2024, making her dirt-track debut on October 1, 2024 in the Outlaw Kart Cadet division. Just four days later, she claimed her first career victory.
During the 2025 season, Estela advanced rapidly, competing in Box Stock, Beginner Box Stock, and ultimately the Jr. Sprint class. Her Jr. Sprint debut at the Northeast Outlaw Invasion in Pennsylvania resulted in a top-10 feature finish, followed by her first Jr. Sprint heat-race win and a top-five feature finish at a separate venue.
At her home track—Millbridge Speedway—Estela made the A-Main in the prestigious Simpson Outlaw Open Series, stacking up big accomplishments early in her young career.
Her mission is to inspire young girls in motorsports and ultimately become a full-time sprint car driver—making her an ideal addition to the Race Face Next family.
Mikey Wheeler Jr. — Millbridge Speedway Restricted Micro Sprint Champion
Twelve-year-old Mikey Wheeler Jr., originally from Central Point, Oregon and now based in Mooresville, North Carolina, enters the program with a strong résumé and a championship title that solidifies his place among the nation’s top young dirt racers.
A third-generation driver, Mikey began racing at age five with the Red Bluff Outlaws in California. Over the years, he has competed across the West Coast and Southeast, building an impressive list of wins and accomplishments.
His biggest milestone to date came at one of the toughest youth racing venues in the country—Millbridge Speedway—where Mikey captured the Restricted Micro Sprint Track Championship, showcasing consistency, speed, and race-winning performance throughout the season.
His achievements include:
- Millbridge Speedway Restricted Micro Sprint Champion
- Multiple Restricted Micro feature wins at Millbridge Speedway
- Multiple wins at Yreka Speedway (Yreka, CA)
- Wins at Southern Oregon Speedway in Beginner/Box Stock divisions
- Winner of the Jim Shirley Memorial at Cycleland Speedway
- Multiple Box Stock victories at Millbridge Speedway
- Winner of the Top Gun Invitational (Millbridge)
- Pee Wee Champion at River Arena Speedway (Roseburg, OR)
Mikey brings a well-earned reputation for smooth driving, sharp instincts, and a tireless work ethic—qualities that align perfectly with the standards of Race Face Next.
About Race Face Next
The Race Face Next program represents the highest tier of Race Face Brand Development’s driver advancement pathway. Each year, a select group of promising young racers is chosen for their talent, discipline, professionalism, and long-term potential.
Program benefits include:
- Professional digital branding and media development
- Sponsorship strategy and marketing support
- Interview and public-speaking training
- Personalized development plans
- Opportunities for expanded exposure and partnerships
Looking Ahead to 2026
By welcoming Estela Stillwell and Mikey Wheeler Jr. into the Race Face Next Class of 2026, Race Face Brand Development continues its commitment to preparing the next generation of motorsports leaders with structure, guidance, and world-class support.
“We are honored to have Estela and Mikey in the 2026 class,” said Rod Wortham, Founder & CEO of Race Face Brand Development. “They’re talented, driven, and focused—everything Race Face Next represents. The future is bright for both of them.”
