Martin Truex Jr. is not just returning to the Daytona 500—he’s making it clear that this time, he’s aiming for victory. Despite stepping back from full-time racing, the 2017 NASCAR Cup Series Champion is set to pilot the No. 56 Toyota Camry XSE for TRICON Garage in the prestigious 2025 Daytona 500. With a career defined by 34 Cup wins and a championship, Truex remains one of the sport’s most accomplished drivers, but the Daytona 500 has been a glaring omission from his trophy collection.
Truex’s statement ahead of the race reveals a sense of determination that fans have come to expect from the veteran driver. “I can’t think of a better time to win this thing,” he said, highlighting his eagerness to finally secure the elusive Daytona title. Truex’s closest brush with Daytona 500 glory came in 2016, when he finished second in one of the closest finishes in NASCAR history. Now, with a fresh team and renewed focus, he’s ready to rewrite that narrative.
TRICON Garage, making its Cup Series debut, is equally determined to make an impact. Known for its success in the Craftsman Truck Series, the team has stepped up to the big leagues with backing from Joe Gibbs Racing and the expertise of Cole Pearn, Truex’s former crew chief. Together, Truex and Pearn built an impressive legacy, including a championship and 24 wins during their partnership. Their reunion adds another layer of excitement and raises expectations for the underdog team.
David Gilliland, TRICON Garage’s team owner, acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed confidence in Truex’s ability. “There’s no stronger competitor I’d want behind the wheel for our first Cup Series entry,” he said. Competing as an open entry, TRICON Garage faces hurdles, but Gilliland is optimistic about their chances of success.
For Truex, this isn’t just another race—it’s an opportunity to cement his legacy. With support from TRICON Garage, Toyota, and long-time sponsor Bass Pro Shops, he’s poised to take on the challenge with everything he’s got. As the green flag drops at Daytona, all eyes will be on Martin Truex Jr. as he attempts to turn his bold claims into a career-defining triumph.
Martin Truex Jr. Makes Bold Statement About His Daytona 500 Mission
