Martin Truex Jr. Confirms NASCAR Cup Return In Hunt For Elusive Win

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Martin Truex Jr. is making a return to the NASCAR Cup Series circuit at the Daytona 500, a race which he has never won.

Although he stepped back from full-time NASCAR racing last year, the seasoned driver has decided to take on this prestigious race in 2025, driving the No. 56 Toyota Camry XSE for TRICON Garage.

This will also be TRICON Garage's very first venture into the NASCAR Cup Series.

With a career spanning 19 full-time seasons and 34 series victories, including a 2017 championship, Truex Jr's success in NASCAR is unquestionable.

The Daytona 500, however, remains elusive to him, with a second-place finish in 2016 that remains one of the race's closest finishes in history.

TRICON Garage, originally known by other names such as David Gilliland Racing, has built a reputation in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

With David Gilliland at the helm, TRICON Garage is excited to make its debut with Truex Jr. Gilliland explained in a press release from the team:

"This opportunity is a testament to the dedication of our entire organization and our partners at Toyota. Having raced against Martin for many years, I can confidently say there's no stronger competitor I'd want behind the wheel for our first Cup Series entry at the sport's most prestigious race."

Competing as an open entry presents its own set of challenges for TRICON Garage. However, Gilliland remains optimistic, stating:

"As an open entry, we know the road ahead will be challenging, but I have no doubt that Martin will put us in the best position to succeed. I've had the privilege of sitting on the pole at Daytona, but my next goal is to celebrate in victory lane."

TRICON Garage will receive backing from Joe Gibbs Racing meaning they will benefit from top-tier technical support. Furthermore, the team has the expertise of Cole Pearn, who returns as Truex's crew chief.

Pearn's history with Truex includes a remarkable period where the duo clinched a championship and 24 wins between 2015 and 2019.

Commenting on his upcoming Daytona 500 attempt, Truex Jr explained:

"It's going to be a really cool deal to be able to work with Cole and have the number 56 again.

"I really appreciate everyone at Bass Pro Shops, TRICON and Toyota helping put this together to go have some fun, and I can't think of a better time to go win the thing for Johnny Morris."