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Martin Truex Jr. is set to close his full-time NASCAR Cup Series career with a touching nod to his roots. This weekend at Phoenix Raceway, he’ll bring a special paint scheme that takes fans back to 2004— the year he made his Cup Series debut. Truex’s No. 19 Toyota Camry, backed by his longtime sponsor Bass Pro Shops, will sport the same red, black, and yellow design he ran when he first entered NASCAR’s top-tier racing at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This throwback scheme highlights his incredible journey and pays tribute to the moment that set his legendary career in motion.
For Truex, this homage holds significant sentimental value. His 2004 debut, though brief due to an engine failure, marked the start of a remarkable journey. Over the years, he evolved from a determined rookie to a Cup Series champion, with Bass Pro Shops as a loyal partner throughout his career. This enduring partnership will be on full display as the familiar colors take over his No. 19 car one last time. Bass Pro Shops CEO Johnny Morris has stood by Truex, supporting him from his debut with Dale Earnhardt, Inc. to the heights he reached as a champion.
As Truex prepares for his last lap in a full-time capacity, he reflects on the support and loyalty he’s received over the years, expressing gratitude for the fans, friends, and family who will join him at Phoenix. His career has been defined by a mix of persistence and resilience, especially as he faced multiple team changes, car troubles, and DNFs early on. These challenges only strengthened his drive, eventually leading him to 34 Cup wins and numerous multi-win seasons.
After nearly two decades, Truex’s career has come full circle with this meaningful tribute, underlining his love for racing and respect for his journey. It’s a moment that reminds fans of his unwavering commitment and, in many ways, closes the chapter just as it began. His return to the track in the 2004 throwback scheme symbolizes not only his past but his legacy— a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire future generations in NASCAR.
As the green flag waves one last time for Truex at Phoenix, fans and teammates will celebrate a career marked by determination, dedication, and triumph. The tribute is sure to be a moving farewell, honoring a driver whose impact on NASCAR will be felt for years to come.