Lionel Racing, the sole licensed manufacturer of NASCAR diecast cars, could soon be under new ownership. Round 2 — which produces AMT, MPS, Hawk/Lindberg, Polar Lights, Auto World, American Muscle, Johnny Lightning, Racing Champions and Classic Metal Works collectibles — has announced its intent to purchase Lionel, LLC. Round 2 is under the portfolio of Praesidian Capital.

“In the weeks ahead, as the transaction progresses, the companies will come together as the Lionel Brands Group,” Michell Fannin of Lionel Racing told Diecast Mag. “We are aligned around a shared vision to build a stronger, fan-first platform that supports the brands, communities, and partners that have made each company successful, while creating new opportunities to grow over time.”

A photograph of a banner displaying Lionel Brands Group, along with Round 2’s logo and its affiliated companies, garnered traction on social media Feb. 19 with collectors speculating on a potential merger or acquisition. The website, www.lionelbrands.com, is also active, though visitors to the site are met with a message nothing there is “Nothing to see here – Yet…”

“In the near term, it remains business as usual,” Fannin said. “Our priority is maintaining continuity and supporting the programs already underway. Future announcements will be made on our social media channels. We look forward to building on the strong legacies that define both Lionel and Round 2.”

Round 2 is headquartered in South Bend, Indiana. Under its portfolio of companies, it produces diecast cars, model kits, slot cars and hobby products, according to the Praesidian Capital website.