As the T-Roc Series gears up for its climactic final race at New Smyrna, the championship battle has transformed from a straightforward points race into an all-out rivalry. With Dalton Thorpe embroiled in the mercury scandal, three of his fiercest rivals—Wes Malone, Malakai Qualls, and Keith Thorpe—are closing in, each with their own reasons for wanting to see Dalton dethroned.
Wes Malone, sitting closest to Dalton in points, has remained the most composed throughout the controversy, but there’s no question that he sees this as his moment to strike. “It’s about staying focused,” Wes said. “Dalton’s got a lot going on right now, and that’s his problem. I’m just here to race and take the title if it’s there for the taking.”
Wes has quietly been Dalton’s biggest challenger all season, consistently finishing in the top five and never falling far behind in points. Now, with the mercury controversy threatening to take Dalton out of the running, Wes is preparing to capitalize on any opportunity that comes his way. If the championship leader is distracted, Wes plans to be right there to swoop in.
But Wes isn’t the only one with his eyes on Dalton.
Malakai Qualls, one of the most aggressive young drivers in the series, has had a personal vendetta against Dalton ever since their on-track run-ins earlier in the season. The two have clashed more than once, with Malakai accusing Dalton of driving dirty. Now, with the mercury scandal, Malakai sees a chance for what he calls “justice.”
“He’s been playing games all year,” Malakai said. “If the mercury thing is true, it just proves what I’ve been saying all along—he’s been bending the rules. I hope they investigate it all the way, and if they find anything, he should lose his points. Simple as that.”
Malakai’s rivalry with Dalton has always been fueled by a mix of frustration and ambition, but the mercury incident has taken it to another level. He’s made it clear that if Dalton gets caught, he wants the championship handed to the next driver in line—though Malakai wouldn’t mind beating Dalton on the track first.
And then there’s Keith Thorpe, Dalton’s own uncle and family rival. Keith, who’s struggled to match his nephew’s success, has always had a tense relationship with Dalton. Some say Keith’s racing career has been overshadowed by his nephew’s rise, and it’s no secret that the two haven’t seen eye-to-eye in years. Keith has been more reserved about the mercury incident but isn’t shying away from the potential consequences.
“Dalton’s gotta handle his business,” Keith said. “All I’m worried about is racing. But if something’s not right, then the officials need to step in.”
Keith’s rivalry with Dalton is less vocal but just as fierce, especially with the family dynamic between them. As the final race approaches, Keith could find himself with a golden opportunity—not only to beat his nephew on the track but also to see him face consequences that could change the championship standings.
With Wes Malone waiting patiently in the wings, Malakai Qualls gunning for Dalton’s downfall, and Keith Thorpe keeping a close eye on the outcome, the stage is set for an explosive finale. The mercury scandal has already added fuel to the fire, and tensions are running higher than ever. It’s no longer just about racing—it’s about pride, family, and unfinished business.
As the final race approaches, one question remains: Will Dalton Thorpe hold on to his lead and silence his rivals, or will the combined pressure of Wes, Malakai, and Keith be too much to overcome?
The T-Roc Series has never seen a championship showdown like this before, and all eyes will be on New Smyrna as this three-way rivalry reaches its boiling point.
Comments