NASCAR driver Toni Breidinger faced an unexpected challenge during the ARCA Menards Series race at Watkins Glen International, forcing her to make a tough decision that changed the course of the General Tire 100 race. Piloting the #25 Toyota for Venturini Motorsports, Breidinger had to pull out of the race mid-way due to an injury, allowing her crew chief, Cayden Lapcevich, to take over and complete the race.
Breidinger, who competes full-time in the ARCA Menards Series, had started the race in 16th place (P16). However, the injury, which she had sustained in a prior race, began to take a toll, pushing her to a crossroads. Realizing she couldn’t continue safely, she made the difficult call to head to pit road, where Lapcevich stepped into her #25 Toyota to finish the race.
When Breidinger exited the car, a Fox Sports reporter approached her to gain insight into her decision and the injury that led to the driver swap. Reflecting on the moment, she expressed how difficult it had been to step out of the race. “Yeah, just got an injury recently, and it’s the toughest decision I’ve had to make,” Breidinger said. “That was awful. I told them, ‘Cayden, you have to do it yourself.’ That was honestly the hardest decision I’ve ever made. Never thought I’d have to pull myself out of a race, but I know Cayden will finish that well.”
Breidinger was then asked whether she would be back for the next ARCA Series race, and she assured fans of her commitment to return, emphasizing the importance of thinking long-term. “Yeah, definitely,” she said. “I mean, I’d just say, keep it long-term in mind. I don’t want to really mess up my foot to where I’m out for the rest of the season, so just trying to keep all that in mind.”
While Lapcevich is best known for his achievements in NASCAR Canada, with six race wins and 25 top-10 finishes in 31 starts, stepping into Breidinger’s shoes wasn’t an easy task. Despite the pressure, the 24-year-old driver managed to complete the race, finishing in 17th place (P17). Though the result may not have been ideal, it was a commendable effort given the circumstances.
This season has been far from smooth for Breidinger, as she’s had more than her fair share of challenges and setbacks. Despite these struggles, she remains determined to turn things around and end the season on a high note. Her resilience and determination have been key drivers in her racing journey, and she’s focused on making the necessary adjustments to come back stronger in the upcoming races.
Breidinger’s season may have its share of difficulties, but earlier this year, she and her team, Venturini Motorsports, made history in the stock car racing world during the Springfield ARCA 100 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The race marked a significant moment, as Venturini Motorsports fielded four female drivers in the event, a rare feat in the sport. Alongside Breidinger, the team featured Isabella Robusto, Taylor Reimer, and Amber Balcaen, creating an inspiring lineup that highlighted the growing presence of women in motorsports.
Venturini Motorsports is one of the most well-established teams in stock car racing, having been founded by Bill Venturini Sr., a two-time ARCA Racing Series champion. The organization has been instrumental in fostering young talent, and with Bill’s son, Billy Vent
