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Ryan Truex
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Ryan Matthew Truex (born March 18, 1992) is an American professional stock car racing driver. He competes part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 24 Toyota GR Supra for Sam Hunt Racing. As a reserve driver for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Cup and Xfinity Series, he also competes part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving No. 11 Toyota Camry XSE for JGR.
Key Information
Truex's older brother Martin was the 2017 NASCAR Cup Series champion.
Racing career
[edit]Early career
[edit]
A native of Mayetta, New Jersey, Truex would make his East Series debut in 2008 at Stafford Motor Speedway in the No. 8 car for Dale Earnhardt, Inc. Truex won the 2009 NASCAR Camping World East Series Championship as a seventeen-year-old high school student at Southern Regional High School.[1]
In the eleven-race season, Truex finished the season with eight top-fives.[1] He had three wins at Watkins Glen, Thompson,[2] and Lime Rock Park.[3]
In 2010, Truex won his second consecutive Camping World East Series title in a Michael Waltrip-owned Toyota.[4]
Touring series
[edit]Truex competed in six NASCAR Nationwide Series events, beginning at Gateway International Raceway on July 17, 2010.[5] Truex was intended to run for Rookie of the Year in 2011 with MWR. However, motocross stunt performer Travis Pastrana ran the No. 99 for seven races. Truex planned to skip ROTY and run ten consecutive races in the Nationwide Series, then twenty races in 2012, though surgery forced him out of the 99 at Texas and was replaced by David Reutimann and team owner Waltrip, who drove at the restrictor plate tracks. Waltrip and Ryan's brother Martin also split time in the ride.
Due to a lack of sponsorship in the 99 team, Truex was released from Pastrana Waltrip Racing after the STP 300. Truex returned to the Nationwide Series with Joe Gibbs Racing, running several races late in the 2011 season. In 2012, he drove for Tommy Baldwin Racing in the season-opening DRIVE4COPD 300 at Daytona International Speedway,[4] finishing 31st. He ran a limited schedule for JGR,[6] while he also drove for RAB Racing at Texas Motor Speedway in April.[7]
On June 2, 2012, Truex got a career best finish of second at Dover International Speedway driving for JGR. Racing shortly after an emergency appendectomy,[8] he started the race first after winning his first career Nationwide Series pole,[9] and led late before being caught in lapped traffic by Joey Logano.[10]
National series
[edit]In February 2013, Truex announced that he would compete in the Camping World Truck Series for Turner Scott Motorsports at Daytona International Speedway;[11] he hoped to compete in further races during the year and registered to compete for the series' Rookie of the Year title. In addition, he signed with Phoenix Racing to compete in the Sprint Cup Series, competing in at least one race at Richmond International Raceway, as well as at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the team in the Nationwide Series;[11] his debut in the Sprint Cup Series and his Nationwide Series race was later delayed due to Truex suffering a broken collarbone.[12]
On June 2, 2013, it was announced that Truex had signed with Richard Petty Motorsports as a development driver;[13] in mid-July it was announced that he would make his Sprint Cup debut with Phoenix Racing in the Irwin Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway driving James Finch's No. 51.[14] After Harry Scott Jr.'s takeover of the No. 51 team two weeks later, Truex drove for Scott in his first race as team owner at Richmond International Raceway. He drove for Scott again at his home track of Dover International Speedway, finishing 32nd.[15]
In January 2014, Truex drove for BK Racing during testing prior to the 2014 Daytona 500 in the No. 93.[16] He was later assigned to the team's No. 83 for the full season.[17] Truex also drove the No. 32 Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet for Turner Scott Motorsports in the season-opening Camping World Truck Series race at Daytona International Speedway.[18] In August he suffered a sprained wrist and concussion in a practice crash at Michigan International Speedway; he was forced to sit out that weekend's race, being replaced by J. J. Yeley.[19]
In September, Truex was replaced in the No. 83 car by Travis Kvapil in races at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and Dover International Speedway; discussions about his position with the team for the remainder of the season were said to be "ongoing".[20] During the race weekend at Dover, Truex confirmed that he was no longer with BK Racing.[21] After receiving no rides in 2015, Truex was picked up by Biagi-DenBeste Racing to drive three races starting at Richmond in the Xfinity Series.
After not finding a ride in 2015, in 2016, Truex returned to the Truck Series for the season opener at Daytona, driving the No. 81 for Hattori Racing Enterprises.[22] Truex ran in the top-ten for a portion of the race, and was in the lead on the last lap when he lost support from Parker Kligerman.[23] After finishing second, he announced he was running Atlanta, Martinsville, Kansas, and hoped to run the whole season. However, sponsorship had been an issue for the team, he was replaced by Jesse Little for Texas, and was reduced to a limited schedule for the rest of the year. But Truex returned to HRE in 2017, now running the full Truck schedule in the renumbered No. 16.[24][25] After finishing ninth in points with thirteen top-ten finishes (including eight in the top five) and two poles, he was released by HRE on January 4, 2018.[26] His jobless status would not last long, as he signed with Kaulig Racing to drive their flagship No. 11 car in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for 2018 with sponsorship from partner Bar Harbor Foods. With one top-five and eleven top-ten finishes, Truex finished twelfth in points after being eliminated after the Round Of 12.
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Truex lost his ride with Kaulig when Justin Haley was announced as his successor in the No. 11 for 2019. On January 16, Truex announced he would enter the Daytona 500 with Tommy Baldwin Racing, driving the No. 71.[27] On January 25, 2019, it was announced that Truex would drive the No. 8 car for JR Motorsports part-time.[28] Truex cold-texted team owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. to inquire about open rides in the offseason and was able to find a large enough budget to run part-time in the No. 8.[29] In his first race with the team at Phoenix he scored his first top-five since Mid-Ohio by tying his best-career finish of second.
In 2020, Truex returned to the Truck Series as he signed a six-race deal with Niece Motorsports starting with the Texas race in March.[30] Truex initially sought a full-time ride with the team but was unable to bring enough sponsorship to secure a full season.[29] After running nine races in 2020, with a best finish of twelfth at Las Vegas and Kansas, Truex upgraded to a full-time schedule with Niece for the 2021 season.[31]
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Truex returned to the Xfinity Series, driving the Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 on a part-time basis in 2022. He was scheduled to run only five races in 2022 but Auto-Owners Insurance (which sponsors his brother Martin’s No. 19 Cup car) joined him last minute for a race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.[32] His best finish that season was third at Atlanta. He would return to the renumbered No. 19 car in 2023 after Sammy Smith would move to the No. 18 full-time. Truex would finish second at Phoenix Raceway to his teammate, Smith. He scored his first career win at Dover, the site of his brother, Martin’s first Cup Series win in 2007.[33][34] Martin won the Cup race two days later, becoming the fifth set of brothers to win on the same race weekend.[35]
For 2024, Truex returned to JGR part-time, alternating between the No. 19 and No. 20 teams. He brought the No. 20 to victory lane at Dover.[36] Truex scored his second win of the season at the Daytona summer race.[37] He returned to Sam Hunt Racing to drive their No. 26 car in the race at Homestead-Miami for the first time since the season-opener at Daytona in 2022.[38]
In 2025, Truex was a reserve driver for Joe Gibbs Racing's Cup and Xfinity teams. In the Cup Series, he would fill in for Denny Hamlin in the No. 11 Toyota at Mexico City after Hamlin's fiancée had given birth to their third child. This will be Truex's first Cup Series start since 2014.[39] He started 36th and finished 23rd.
In the Xfinity Series, Truex would make one start at Daytona, driving the No. 24 Toyota for Sam Hunt Racing.[40]
Personal life
[edit]He is the younger brother of 2017 Cup Series champion and two-time Busch Series champion Martin Truex Jr.,[1] and the son of former Busch Series driver Martin Truex Sr.
Motorsports career results
[edit]NASCAR
[edit](key) (Bold – Pole position awarded by qualifying time. Italics – Pole position earned by points standings or practice time. * – Most laps led.)
Cup Series
[edit]Daytona 500
[edit]| Year | Team | Manufacturer | Start | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | BK Racing | Toyota | DNQ | |
| 2019 | Tommy Baldwin Racing | Chevrolet | DNQ | |
Xfinity Series
[edit]Camping World Truck Series
[edit]* Season still in progress
1 Ineligible for series points
K&N Pro Series East
[edit]| NASCAR K&N Pro Series East results | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Team | No. | Make | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | NKNPSEC | Pts | Ref | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2008 | Dale Earnhardt, Inc. | 8 | Chevy | GRE | IOW | SBO | GLN | NHA | TMP | MCM | ADI | LRP | MFD | NHA | DOV | STA 11 |
61st | 130 | [63] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2009 | Michael Waltrip Racing | 00 | Toyota | GRE 14 |
TRI 16 |
IOW 19 |
SBO 3 |
GLN 1 |
NHA 2 |
TMP 1 |
ADI 2 |
LRP 1 |
NHA 3 |
DOV 8 |
1st | 1719 | [64] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2010 | GRE 14* |
SBO 3 |
IOW 5 |
MAR 2 |
NHA 1* |
LRP 5 |
LEE 2 |
JFC 7 |
NHA 1* |
DOV 3 |
1st | 1662 | [65] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2017 | Hattori Racing Enterprises | 11 | Toyota | NSM | GRE | BRI 25 |
SBO | SBO | MEM | BLN | TMP | NHA | IOW | 39th | 46 | [66] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 01 | GLN 19 |
LGY | NJM | DOV | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
References
[edit]- ^ a b c Schroeder, Charles (September 26, 2009). "Ryan Truex finishes rookie year with a NASCAR title at Dover". The Press of Atlantic City. Retrieved September 28, 2009.
- ^ "Ryan Truex Nabs Second Win At Thompson". Catch Fence.com. July 12, 2009. Retrieved September 28, 2009.
- ^ "ROAD WARRIOR: Ryan Truex makes it a clean sweep in Camping World East Series". Green White Checkered. August 15, 2009. Archived from the original on August 30, 2009. Retrieved September 28, 2009.
- ^ a b "Tommy Baldwin Racing expands NNS program". NASCAR.com. Turner Sports. January 25, 2012. Retrieved January 25, 2012.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Truex Wins First NASCAR Title". NASCAR. September 26, 2009. Retrieved September 28, 2009.
- ^ "JGR Lands Sponsor For Ryan Truex". SPEED Channel. Fox Sports. March 13, 2012. Archived from the original on March 14, 2012. Retrieved March 12, 2012.
- ^ "Truex to drive RAB Racing's No. 09 at Texas". NASCAR.com. Turner Sports. April 10, 2012. Retrieved April 10, 2012.[permanent dead link]
- ^ De Los Santos, Brian (May 30, 2012). "Ryan Truex returns to Nationwide car at Dover after appendectomy". Eye On Nascar. CBS Sports. Retrieved June 21, 2012.
- ^ "Truex to start on the pole for 5-hour Energy 200 at Dover". TSN. June 2, 2012. Retrieved June 21, 2012.
- ^ "Logano Wins Nationwide Series Race at Dover". The New York Times. New York. June 2, 2012. Retrieved June 21, 2012.
- ^ a b Mazda, Jason (February 19, 2013). "Ryan Truex to make NASCAR Sprint Cup debut in April; will drive in Trucks race Friday at Daytona". Press of Atlantic City. Atlantic City, NJ. Retrieved February 23, 2013.
- ^ "Broken collarbone forces Ryan Truex to postpone NASCAR Sprint Cup debut". The Press of Atlantic City. Atlantic City, NJ. April 7, 2013. Retrieved June 2, 2013.
- ^ Long, Dustin (June 2, 2013). "Ryan Truex Signs with RPM". MRN Radio. Archived from the original on June 8, 2013. Retrieved June 2, 2013.
- ^ Spencer, Lee (July 19, 2013). "Finch confirms sale of Phoenix Racing". Fox Sports. Retrieved July 19, 2013.
- ^ "Ryan Truex - 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Results". Racing-Reference. USA Today Sports Media Group. Retrieved September 30, 2013.
- ^ "SPRINT CUP DRIVER ROSTER FOR PRESEASON THUNDER". NASCAR. January 7, 2014. Retrieved January 8, 2014.
- ^ Estrada, Chris (January 20, 2014). "Cup: Alex Bowman, Ryan Truex confirmed at BK Racing". MotorSportsTalk. NBC Sports. Retrieved January 20, 2014.
- ^ "Ryan Truex Returns to Turner Scott Motorsports for NCWTS Race at Daytona". SpeedwayMedia. Turner Scott Motorsports. February 10, 2014. Retrieved February 10, 2014.
- ^ Pockrass, Bob (October 16, 2014). "UPDATE: J.J. Yeley to replace Ryan Truex in Michigan race". Sporting News. Archived from the original on August 18, 2014. Retrieved August 16, 2014.
- ^ Bianchi, Jordan (September 23, 2014). "Ryan Truex's future in doubt at BK Racing". SB Nation. Vox Media. Retrieved September 23, 2014.
- ^ Utter, Jim (September 26, 2014). "Motorsports Notebook: Garage providing Stewart some shelter". That's Racing. Charlotte, NC: Charlotte Observer. Retrieved September 28, 2014.
- ^ Knight, Chris (February 15, 2016). "Ryan Truex Returns To Trucks At Daytona With Hattori Racing". Catchfence. Retrieved February 15, 2016.
- ^ Christie, Toby. "Ryan Truex proves that persistence pays off with great run at Daytona". Tribute Racing. Retrieved April 13, 2016.
- ^ Utter, Jim (January 16, 2017). "Ryan Truex set to run full NASCAR Trucks schedule in 2017". Motorsport.com. Retrieved January 16, 2017.
- ^ "RYAN TRUEX TO COMPETE FULL TIME FOR HATTORI RACING". NASCAR. January 30, 2017. Retrieved January 30, 2017.
- ^ Utter, Jim (January 4, 2018). "After best season yet, Ryan Truex now looking for a job". Motorsport.com. Retrieved January 5, 2018.
- ^ Crandall, Kevin (January 16, 2019). "Ryan Truex gets Daytona 500 chance". Racer. Retrieved January 16, 2019.
- ^ "JR Motorsports Reshuffles Team Car Numbers Entering 2019". JR Motorsports. Retrieved January 25, 2019.
- ^ a b Cheek, Adam (June 30, 2020). "Ryan Truex Back in Truck Series with New Team, New Hopes for 2020". Frontstretch. Retrieved October 19, 2020.
- ^ McFadin, Daniel (February 4, 2020). "Ryan Truex added to Niece Motorsports driver lineup". NBC Sports. Retrieved February 4, 2020.
- ^ Estrada, Chris (November 24, 2020). "Ryan Truex lands full-time Truck ride at Niece Motorsports". NBC Sports. Retrieved November 26, 2020.
- ^ "Ryan Truex / No. 18 Auto-Owners Insurance Toyota GR Supra Preview – Alsco Uniforms 250 at Atlanta". Speedway Digest. Retrieved April 30, 2023.
- ^ Cain, Holly (April 29, 2023). "Ryan Truex rolls to first Xfinity Series win at Dover". NASCAR. Retrieved April 30, 2023.
- ^ Caldwell, Dave (June 5, 2007). "Dominating Dover, Truex Earns First Cup Victory". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved April 30, 2023.
- ^ "Truex brothers join NASCAR families as race weekend winners". AP NEWS. May 1, 2023. Retrieved May 2, 2023.
- ^ Cain, Holly (April 27, 2024). "Ryan Truex goes back-to-back at Dover, cuts through chaos for first Xfinity win of 2024". NASCAR. Retrieved April 28, 2024.
- ^ Cain, Holly (August 23, 2024). "Ryan Truex takes Xfinity Series win at Daytona". NASCAR. Retrieved August 24, 2024.
- ^ "(Twitter post)". Twitter. Sam Hunt Racing. October 21, 2024.
Go Ryan (& Sam) @Ryan_Truex, two-time @NASCAR_Xfinity winner this season, returns behind the wheel of the No. 26 GR Supra this weekend at @HomesteadMiami!
- ^ "Denny Hamlin will miss Mexico City after birth of son". Jayski's Silly Season Site. NASCAR Digital Media. June 12, 2025. Retrieved June 12, 2025.
- ^ Christie, Toby (January 27, 2025). "Ryan Truex Joins Sam Hunt Racing in No. 24 Entry at Daytona". TobyChristie.com. Retrieved January 27, 2025.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2019 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved February 17, 2019.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved June 15, 2025.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2013 NASCAR Nationwide Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2015 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2018 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2019 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved July 17, 2019.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved February 26, 2022.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved February 17, 2024.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved February 15, 2025.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2012 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2013 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2014 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2016 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2017 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2020 NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 6, 2020.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2021 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved December 29, 2021.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2008 NASCAR Camping World East Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 13, 2017.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2009 NASCAR Camping World East Series Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 13, 2017.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2010 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 13, 2017.
- ^ "Ryan Truex – 2017 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East Results". Racing-Reference. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved November 13, 2017.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Ryan Truex.
- Official website
- Official profile at Sam Hunt Racing
- Ryan Truex driver statistics at Racing-Reference
Ryan Truex
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Ryan Truex (born March 18, 1992) is an American professional stock car racing driver who competed part-time in the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series for Sam Hunt Racing in the No. 24 Toyota, as well as serving as a reserve driver for Joe Gibbs Racing's NASCAR Cup Series program.[1][2][3] Hailing from Mayetta, New Jersey, he is the younger brother of 2017 NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. and a second-generation racer whose father competed in the ARCA East Series.[2][4] Truex has made starts across all three of NASCAR's national series, with career highlights including two consecutive championships in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2009 and 2010, and three victories in the Xfinity Series: his first at Dover Motor Speedway in April 2023 (leading 124 laps), a second at the same track in 2024, and a third at Daytona International Speedway in August 2024.[5][1]
Truex began his racing career at short tracks in the Northeast before advancing to NASCAR's developmental ranks.[5] In the K&N Pro Series East, he demonstrated early talent by securing the 2009 Rookie of the Year honors and then dominating the 2010 season with multiple wins en route to the title.[5] He progressed to the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2011, earning Rookie of the Year there as well, and made his Cup Series debut in 2012 at age 20, eventually accumulating 26 starts in the premier division through 2024 without a top-10 finish but showing consistency in select events.[1][4]
In the Xfinity Series, Truex has 103 starts as of November 2025, with his breakthrough wins at Dover—often called the "Monster Mile"—highlighting his affinity for the challenging 1-mile concrete oval.[1] His 2023 victory came in dramatic fashion, holding off a late charge from the field after leading the majority of the race, while his 2024 repeat underscored his growing prowess on the track. The Daytona win in 2024 further diversified his resume. As of November 2025, Truex balances his reserve role at Joe Gibbs Racing with select part-time racing opportunities, positioning him for potential expanded opportunities in the sport.[3]
Truex attempted additional Cup races in 2020 with Spire Motorsports but did not qualify for any, marking unsuccessful efforts during a period focused on Xfinity Series competition. No Cup start occurred at the 2023 Chicago Street Course, where he instead competed in Xfinity events.
After 2013, Truex's participation remained limited until a 15-race schedule in 2016, followed by a full-time effort in 2017 with Hattori Racing Enterprises, where he posted career-best marks of eight top fives and 13 top 10s en route to a ninth-place points finish and both of his series poles.[54] He returned part-time in 2020 with nine starts for Niece Motorsports before running a near-full schedule of 22 races for the same team in 2021, finishing 16th in points with two top fives.[54] Truex did not compete in the Truck Series during the 2025 season.[1]
These back-to-back titles positioned Truex for higher-level competition in NASCAR's national series.[62]
Personal background
Early life and education
Ryan Truex was born on March 18, 1992, in Mayetta, New Jersey.[2] Growing up on the New Jersey coast in a family deeply involved in motorsports, Truex was exposed to racing from a young age through his father, Martin Truex Sr., a former competitor in the NASCAR Busch North Series (now the K&N Pro Series East), and his older brother, Martin Truex Jr.[6] He frequently attended local short tracks, including annual family trips to Dover Motor Speedway, where he watched races from the grandstands.[7] This environment fostered his early fascination with the sport, though his personal interest in competing emerged around age 12; he began racing Bandolero cars at age 14 after convincing his father to support it.[6] Truex attended Southern Regional High School in Manahawkin, New Jersey, graduating in 2010.[8] Throughout his high school years, he balanced academic responsibilities with his burgeoning racing pursuits, including initial forays into Bandolero racing and local tracks that ignited his passion for the sport.[9] His brother's achievements in NASCAR provided ongoing inspiration during this formative period.[4]Family and influences
Ryan Truex was born into a family deeply rooted in stock car racing. His father, Martin Truex Sr. (died January 17, 2025), was a former competitor in the NASCAR Busch North Series and a prominent figure in the local racing community, which exposed Ryan to the sport from an early age. Alongside his mother, Linda Truex, the family provided unwavering support, fostering an environment where racing became a central pursuit, though Martin Sr. initially resisted Ryan's entry into the sport until he was 14 years old.[10][11][12][13] Truex shares a close sibling bond with his older brother, Martin Truex Jr., who is 12 years his senior and has served as both a role model and mentor, often providing guidance on track strategy and mental resilience through casual conversations and shared experiences. Martin's perseverance through early career challenges, culminating in a strong rookie season in NASCAR's Cup Series in 2006 where he finished third in Rookie of the Year standings, profoundly motivated Ryan during his formative years, reinforcing the belief that sustained effort could lead to breakthroughs despite setbacks. This familial dynamic emphasized collective encouragement over direct intervention, allowing Ryan to carve his path independently while drawing inspiration from his brother's achievements.[4][14][15][16] Beyond family, Truex's early influences stemmed from New Jersey's vibrant local racing scene, including tracks like Wall Stadium, where his father's involvement connected him to a network of drivers and enthusiasts who emphasized fundamentals and community support. These non-familial mentors, combined with role models from stock car racing, shaped his determination to honor the Truex legacy through personal merit rather than nepotism, driving his commitment to the sport amid funding hurdles and inconsistent opportunities.[17][12]Racing career
Early career and development series
Ryan Truex, a native of Mayetta, New Jersey, entered organized stock car racing at the age of 17, making his debut in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2009 driving the No. 5 Chevrolet for Dale Earnhardt Inc..[18] In an 11-race season, Truex demonstrated immediate talent with three victories—at Watkins Glen International, Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park, and Lime Rock Park—along with seven top-five finishes and eight top-10 results, securing the series championship by 34 points over runner-up Eddie MacDonald.[19][20][21][22][23] Building on his rookie success, Truex returned in 2010 for the renamed NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, now driving the No. 00 Toyota for Michael Waltrip Racing, which marked the team's first championship in any series..[24] At 18 years old, he claimed two wins, both at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in June and September, sweeping the events there while achieving consistent top finishes across the 10-race schedule, including seven top-fives.[25][20] This performance clinched his second consecutive title, finishing 134 points ahead of Brett Moffitt and solidifying his reputation as a rising talent in NASCAR's developmental ranks before advancing to national series.[18] Truex's rapid ascent in the K&N Pro Series East was influenced by his family's deep racing roots, particularly his older brother Martin Truex Jr.'s success in NASCAR, which provided early motivation and access to competitive opportunities in New Jersey's local racing scene.[14]NASCAR Truck Series
Following his back-to-back championships in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2009 and 2010, Ryan Truex transitioned to national-level competition with his debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2012.[5] Driving the No. 27 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing at Martinsville Speedway, Truex showed promise in a part-time schedule that year, competing in two races and achieving a ninth-place finish at Phoenix International Raceway while leading 22 laps.[26] He continued with limited appearances in 2013 and 2014, including a single start at Daytona International Speedway for Turner Scott Motorsports in the No. 30 Chevrolet, where an accident ended his day early.[27] After a brief hiatus, Truex returned to the series in 2016 with one start before securing a full-time opportunity in 2017 with Hattori Racing Enterprises in the No. 16 Toyota. That season marked his most consistent campaign to date, as he earned his first Truck Series pole at Chicagoland Speedway and finished ninth in the final points standings with multiple top-10 finishes, including a runner-up result at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.[28][29] His performance highlighted his adaptability on short tracks and ovals, though inconsistent sponsorship funding limited his momentum heading into subsequent years.[30] Truex's role shifted to part-time in 2020 with Niece Motorsports in the No. 45 Chevrolet before returning to a full-season effort in 2021, again with Niece, where he recorded two top-five finishes and ended 16th in points.[1] Post-2021, funding challenges again constrained his schedule, leading to sporadic starts across 2022 through 2025, often substituting for injured drivers or filling open seats with teams like Niece and others.[31] These intermittent runs underscored the financial hurdles in sustaining a national series career, yet Truex maintained competitive showings, such as top-10 results in select events.[30] Over 73 career Truck Series starts, Truex has secured two poles and 12 top-five finishes, demonstrating reliability and speed without a victory, often hampered by equipment limitations and budgetary constraints that prevented a more expansive program.[32]NASCAR Xfinity Series
Ryan Truex made his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut in 2010 with seven starts for Travis Pastrana Racing and Michael Waltrip Racing affiliates, marking the beginning of his national series career following success in development series. After a break in 2014 to focus on the Cup Series, he returned in 2015 for sporadic appearances with teams such as JGL Racing, running four races with limited results. His efforts remained part-time through 2017, including starts with Joe Gibbs Racing development teams, as funding constraints prevented a full schedule.[1][33] Truex's breakthrough came in 2018 when he secured a full-time ride with Kaulig Racing in the No. 11 Chevrolet, competing in 33 of 33 races and achieving a career-best 12th-place finish in the driver points standings. During the season, he earned multiple top-10 finishes and demonstrated speed on intermediate tracks, though mechanical issues and close calls with playoffs hampered further success. This full-time opportunity highlighted his growth from Truck Series experience, where consistent top finishes had prepared him for the step up.[34][35] From 2019 to 2023, Truex shifted to a part-time schedule primarily with Sam Hunt Racing in the No. 26 Toyota, making between six and 34 starts annually depending on sponsorship availability. Highlights included strong performances on road courses, such as top-10 finishes at Road America and Watkins Glen, showcasing his road racing prowess developed in earlier ARCA and K&N series. In April 2023, he captured his first Xfinity victory at Dover Motor Speedway, leading 124 laps in a dominant performance for Sam Hunt Racing. Funding challenges continued to limit opportunities, forcing reliance on select races where he often outperformed expectations with the underfunded team.[30] In 2024 and into 2025, Truex joined Joe Gibbs Racing for a part-time campaign in the No. 20 Toyota, focusing on key events including ovals and road courses. He repeated as Dover winner in 2024, leading substantial laps en route to his second career victory, added a third win in the Wawa 250 at Daytona International Speedway road course in August 2024—his first Xfinity triumph on a road course—and posted competitive runs at Road America with a top-five finish. As of November 2025, his selective schedule has yielded three total Xfinity wins in the past three seasons, underscoring steady improvement despite ongoing funding hurdles that have kept him from another full-time role.[1]NASCAR Cup Series
Ryan Truex made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2013, competing in three races for Phoenix Racing aboard the No. 51 Chevrolet. His first start occurred at Bristol Motor Speedway in August, where he qualified 18th but suffered an early accident, finishing 42nd after completing just 39 laps. Subsequent outings at Richmond Raceway and Dover Motor Speedway yielded finishes of 35th and 32nd, respectively, providing initial exposure to the series' intensity despite mechanical and handling challenges.[36] The following year, Truex signed with BK Racing for a 23-race schedule in the No. 83 Toyota, representing his most extensive involvement in the Cup Series. Despite operating with limited resources, he demonstrated resilience, achieving a career-high 20th-place finish at Pocono Raceway in June after starting 24th and running competitively throughout. Other notable efforts included a 23rd-place result at Daytona International Speedway in July, though frequent issues with engines, brakes, and crashes contributed to an average finish of 35.2 across the season. At Sonoma Raceway in June, Truex started 34th and led early laps in practice sessions before finishing 41st, completing 91 of 110 laps amid tire wear difficulties on the road course.[37][38][39] Truex's Cup tenure emphasized the steep learning curve from the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he had secured multiple top-five finishes, to the premier division's superior equipment demands and field depth. The faster cars required refined throttle control and endurance, areas where his Xfinity background—featuring consistent road course performances—proved foundational but insufficient against established veterans. After parting ways with BK Racing late in 2014 due to performance and funding constraints, Truex shifted focus to lower series.[40] Post-2014, Truex's Cup opportunities remained scarce. He attempted the 2019 Daytona 500 with Tommy Baldwin Racing in the No. 71 Chevrolet but failed to qualify, bumping out in the final duel. In 2025, as a reserve driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, he made one start at Mexico City on June 15, finishing 23rd in the No. 20 Toyota. No further starts occurred through November 2025. Across 27 career Cup appearances, Truex recorded zero top-10s, zero poles, and led just three laps total, illustrating the barriers for young drivers in underfunded rides.[41][42][43]Current role and recent achievements
Reserve driver at Joe Gibbs Racing
In 2023, Ryan Truex began serving as Joe Gibbs Racing's (JGR) primary simulator driver, contributing to setups for the team's NASCAR Cup Series program while competing part-time in the Xfinity Series for the organization.[44] This role evolved into a more formal position, with Truex transitioning to reserve driver duties late in 2024 and being officially named the primary reserve for JGR's Cup and Xfinity teams ahead of the 2025 season on January 15, 2025.[3] His prior part-time Xfinity stints with JGR, starting in 2022, provided the foundation for this integration into the team's development structure.[31] Truex's responsibilities as reserve driver encompass full-time simulator work, where he replicates the driving styles of JGR's primary competitors to test setups and strategies, alongside participation in NASCAR-approved test sessions using Toyota's wheel force car.[31] He also engages in extensive data analysis, film review, and preparation to ensure readiness as an emergency substitute for any JGR driver in the event of absences due to injury, illness, or other circumstances, covering teams like those of Denny Hamlin in the No. 11 Cup car and Christopher Bell in the No. 20 Cup car, as well as Xfinity programs.[31][3] The position grants Truex broad access to JGR's advanced resources, including engineering support and shop facilities, which have enhanced his overall skill development and contributed to stronger performances in his limited Xfinity starts, such as providing detailed insights like tire behavior from the 2023 Phoenix race to inform current strategies.[31] Within the team, Truex collaborates closely with Cup crew chiefs and engineers on a regular basis, fostering a seamless integration that builds on the environment previously shaped by his brother, Martin Truex Jr., who competed for JGR from 2016 to 2024 without creating direct on-track competition overlap for Ryan.[31][3]2025 season highlights
In 2025, Ryan Truex competed in two NASCAR Xfinity Series races for Sam Hunt Racing in the No. 24 Toyota Supra, finishing 17th at Daytona International Speedway on February 15 and 18th at Dover Motor Speedway on July 19.[45][46] A major highlight came on June 15, 2025, when Truex substituted for Denny Hamlin in the NASCAR Cup Series at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, stepping in due to Hamlin's family commitments surrounding the birth of his son. Starting 36th in the No. 11 Toyota Camry XSE, Truex adapted quickly to the 2.417-mile road course, completing all 100 laps to finish 23rd in the 36-car field—a solid mid-pack result that drew praise from team officials and analysts for his seamless integration into the top-tier machinery and strategic decision-making under pressure.[47][48] Truex's reserve status also contributed to the team's preparation efforts via simulator work and testing sessions throughout the season.[49] These opportunities, particularly the Mexico City substitute role, boosted Truex's profile within the NASCAR community, with early 2025 discussions among team executives and media about possible full-time driving roles for him in 2026, particularly in the Xfinity Series.[50]NASCAR career statistics
Cup Series results
Ryan Truex has made 27 starts in the NASCAR Cup Series across three seasons, primarily as a part-time driver for underfunded teams early in his career before a substitute appearance with a top organization in 2025. He has no wins, top-5 finishes, top-10 finishes, or poles in the series, with a career average finish of 34.8. All starts were completed without leading a lap, and he experienced multiple DNFs due to accidents, mechanical issues, and other incidents.[42] The following table summarizes his year-by-year Cup Series performance, including teams, starts, best finish, average finish, and DNFs. Detailed race-by-race results are available from official NASCAR records.[1]| Year | Team(s) | Starts | Best Finish | Average Finish | DNFs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Phoenix Racing (#51 Chevrolet) | 3 | 32nd | 36.3 | 1 | Debut season with limited road course and oval starts; all races ended early due to incident or running short. |
| 2014 | BK Racing (#83 Toyota) | 23 | 20th | 35.5 | 8 | Full partial schedule; qualified 8th at Darlington for career-best start; four DNQ attempts; Sonoma finish of 41st (running after 91 laps). Average start position 36.7. |
| 2025 | Joe Gibbs Racing (#11 Toyota) | 1 | 23rd | 23.0 | 0 | Substitute for injured Denny Hamlin at Mexico City; started 36th, finished 23rd running after 100 laps in debut for the team. |
Xfinity Series results
Ryan Truex has made 132 starts in the NASCAR Xfinity Series across his career, competing primarily for independent teams early on and later for Joe Gibbs Racing in select events. His best seasons came in 2012 and 2018, when he ran full-time schedules, though he has transitioned to a part-time role since 2019 with notable success, including three career wins.[34][51]Year-by-Year Statistics
| Year | Starts | Wins | Top 5s | Top 10s | Poles | Average Finish | Teams |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 22.0 | Diamond Waltrip Racing, Pastrana Waltrip Racing |
| 2011 | 17 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 16.0 | Pastrana Waltrip Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing |
| 2012 | 33 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 17.2 | TriStar Motorsports |
| 2013 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 28.0 | RAB Racing |
| 2014 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 25.0 | TriStar Motorsports |
| 2015 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 24.0 | Biagi-DenBeste Racing |
| 2016 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 30.0 | JD Motorsports |
| 2017 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 28.0 | TriStar Motorsports |
| 2018 | 33 | 0 | 1 | 11 | 0 | 14.0 | Sigma Alpha Rho Racing |
| 2019 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 13.0 | JR Motorsports |
| 2020 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 34.0 | Niece Motorsports |
| 2022 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 15.0 | Joe Gibbs Racing, Sam Hunt Racing |
| 2023 | 6 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 12.0 | Joe Gibbs Racing |
| 2024 | 11 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 0 | 14.0 | Joe Gibbs Racing |
| 2025 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 17.5 | Sam Hunt Racing |
Career Aggregates
Over his 132 starts, Truex has achieved 3 wins, 11 top-5 finishes, 37 top-10 finishes, and 1 pole position, with an average finish of 16.5. He has 13 DNFs, primarily due to mechanical issues or accidents in early career full-time seasons. Earnings exceed $4 million, with notable payouts from his 2023 and 2024 wins at Dover Motor Speedway.[34]2025 Season Results
Truex's 2025 Xfinity Series campaign has been limited to two starts for Sam Hunt Racing in the No. 24 Toyota. At the season-opening United Rentals 300 at Daytona International Speedway on February 15, he started 33rd and finished 17th after a late-race incident. He returned for the Wawa 250 at Dover Motor Speedway on July 19, starting 32nd and finishing 18th in a race marked by multiple cautions. No DNFs were recorded in these events.[52][53][1]Truck Series results
Ryan Truex has made 73 starts in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series across seven seasons from 2012 to 2021, recording no wins but securing 12 top-five finishes, 22 top-10 finishes, and two pole positions while leading a total of 156 laps.[54] His career average starting position stands at 15.3, with an average finishing position of 16.3.[55] Truex entered the series part-time in 2012 and 2013, logging just three starts combined with limited success, including one top-10 finish.[54] He followed with a single start in 2014, where he earned his first top-five result.[54]| Year | Starts | Wins | Top 5s | Top 10s | Poles | Points Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | - |
| 2013 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 73rd |
| 2012–2013 Total | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | - |
| Year | Starts | Wins | Top 5s | Top 10s | Poles | Points Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | - |
| 2016 | 15 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 18th |
| 2017 | 23 | 0 | 8 | 13 | 2 | 9th |
| 2020 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 31st |
| 2021 | 22 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 16th |
| Post-2013 Total | 70 | 0 | 12 | 21 | 2 | - |
K&N Pro Series East results
Ryan Truex's tenure in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East spanned the 2009 and 2010 seasons, during which he established himself as a dominant force by capturing consecutive championships. In 2009, driving for owner Rob Kauffman, Truex made 11 starts and secured 3 victories, clinching the title with 1,719 points, 34 ahead of runner-up Eddie MacDonald. His wins that year included the Tioga Downs Casino 125 at Watkins Glen International on May 30, where he earned his first career series victory by passing Matt DiBenedetto on the final lap, the Pepsi Full Fender Frenzy 100 at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park on July 11, and the Mohegan Sun 200 at Lime Rock Park on July 18. These performances highlighted his adaptability on road courses and short ovals.[21][56][57] In 2010, Truex transitioned to Michael Waltrip Racing's No. 00 Toyota and competed in all 10 races, amassing 2 wins en route to repeating as champion with a 134-point margin over Brett Moffitt. Notable victories included the New England 125 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on June 25, where he led the final 65 laps for a narrow 0.395-second win over Kevin Swindell, and the New Hampshire 125 on September 17, leading 49 laps to sweep the season's events at the track. These performances contributed to his consistent excellence, including a third-place finish in the finale at Dover International Speedway to seal the title.[58][59][60][5] Over his K&N Pro Series East career, Truex logged 21 starts, 5 wins, and maintained an average finish under 5.0, a record that served as a crucial launchpad for his progression to the NASCAR Truck Series.[5][61]| Year | Starts | Wins | Top 5s | Points | Final Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 11 | 3 | 8 | 1719 | 1st |
| 2010 | 10 | 2 | 7 | 1943 | 1st |
| Total | 21 | 5 | 15 | - | 2 Championships |