The countdown is on for the 2026 International Soap Box Derby’s Corporate Derby Challenge, where friendly competition, creative engineering, and charitable giving will come together at Derby Downs, August 20-21, 2026.

This year, the fleet community has decided to get in on the fun with Lauren Fletcher (Team Fletcher), Editor of Work Truck, and Chris Brown (Team Brown), Editor of Automotive Fleet, taking on the challenge—racing custom-built soap box cars in a head-to-head competition for the fastest downhill time.

But before either team reaches the starting line, Teams Fletcher and Brown fueled their competitive spirit by battling to see who could secure the most sponsorship participation for their respective team’s car.

Team Fletcher claimed the sponsorship title, securing support from 23 companies, but outpacing Team Brown by just 2. And it’s not all just fun and games! The sponsorship proceeds go to benefit The Hourglass Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to empower underserved students through scholarship opportunities in automotive technology and other skilled trades.

Together, Teams Fletcher and Brown secured sponsorships from 44 companies, raising $22,000 on behalf of The Hourglass Foundation. This is a testament to the incredible generosity of the fleet community and beyond!

“What makes this so special is knowing that a little friendly competition got 44 sponsors to raise $22,000 for scholarships that can truly change lives. That support can open doors for students, help build the next generation of skilled professionals, and make a real difference far beyond race day. Of course, Team Fletcher and the Ringmaster of the Road also plans to keep the winning streak going once we get to the top of the hill,” said Lauren Fletcher, Vice President of Content at Bobit Business Media. 

Chris Brown, associate publisher of Automotive Fleet and Auto Rental News, also added, "After months of fundraising, looks like we'll finally settle this on August 21 on the hill, and I'm in it to win it, but raising $22,000 for The Hourglass Foundation is the result that actually matters here, and I'm proud of what both teams pulled together."

While Team Fletcher may have won the sponsorship challenge, the biggest winner from this initial competition is clearly The Hourglass Foundation and the students who will benefit from these scholarships.

Shifting Focus from Fundraising to Racing!

On August 21st, Teams Fletcher and Brown will line up at Derby Downs in Akron, Ohio, where they'll compete alongside teams representing corporations, small businesses, community organizations, and other groups participating in the Corporate Derby Challenge. Within the fleet industry, however, all eyes will be on the friendly rivalry between Team Fletcher and Team Brown as they race nearly 1,000 feet down the iconic Derby Downs racetrack at speeds approaching 35 mph!

Beyond the race itself, teams will showcase the creativity, craftsmanship, and engineering behind their custom-built soap box cars, and awards will be presented for both the fastest and best decorated soap box car.

The Corporate Derby Challenge is presented by Bobit Business Media in collaboration with the International Soap Box Derby and in partnership with The Hourglass Foundation.

Fans and supporters can follow the action throughout the event on the Automotive Fleet, Work Truck, and The Hourglass Foundation social media channels.

Kim Davidson, Executive Director at The Hourglass Foundation, stated, “This is going to be so much fun! And, whether it’s Team Fletcher or Team Brown that crosses the finish line first, one thing is certain—it will be an exciting race that celebrates innovation, community, and giving back. The Hourglass Foundation is incredibly grateful to both teams, as well as the fleet community, for their support, advocacy, and invaluable sponsorship participation.”

Click here for more information on the event!

Are you a sponsor or local fleet friend and want to attend? We'll have more info on how to RSVP shortly. Until then, here's the schedule:

Thursday August 20^th – Unveiling Reception

• 6:30 PM – Dinner and Drinks in our Hall of Fame and Museum
• 7:30 PM – Welcome & Greeting
• 7:45 PM – Announcement of Best Design/Decorated Corporate Derby Challenge Car.
• 8:30 PM – Event Ends

Friday August 21^st – Race Day

• 9:00 AM – Check-In, Inspection and Trial Run
• 10:00 AM – Racing Begins
• NOON – Lunch & Trophy Presentation
• 1:00 PM – Event Ends