Ryan Truex is confirmed to return to JGR for 2024 but with a thorn in his shoe

Ryan Truex drove the No. 18 Toyota Supra on a part-time basis for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2022.

Ryan Truex is confirmed to return to JGR for 2024 but with a thorn in his shoe

Ryan Truex, JGR (Credits: Jayski)

In a recent NASCAR development, Ryan Truex is set to rejoin Joe Gibbs Racing for the Xfinity Series in 2024, marking a promising partnership. The Truex brothers’ presence within the organization has already yielded triumphs. Ryan secured a remarkable victory at Dover Motor Speedway and ultimately secured the deal with JGR. However, one doubt prevails whether the sponsorship and the broken model might hamper the driver’s chances. 

In a recent announcement at Michigan Speedway’s media center, Martin Truex Jr., the 2017 NASCAR Champion, revealed his choice to prolong his racing career with Joe Gibbs Racing. He had been mulling over retirement, yet his love for the sport and the team’s progress convinced him to stay. Speaking about his brother Ryan’s chances with JGR, he said, “We’ve got races for (Ryan Truex) again next year. Hopefully more.”

YouTube video

However, the road to securing a full-time slot for Ryan Truex is marred by the complex business dynamics prevalent in NASCAR. Financial constraints, largely dictating race participation, cast shadows over the potential of a consistent full-season endeavor. Martin Truex Jr. voiced this challenge, and Motorsportswire quotes him, “We are looking for sponsorship to do a full year, if possible. That is on the table.” He also humored that Ryan “does a good job on social media too.”

Discover: RFK Racing embraces the underdog status after Chris Buescher’s triumph

Ryan Truex is the only driver in the Xfinity Series to have won in a JGR All-Star car

Ryan Truex winning at Dover
Ryan Truex winning at Dover (Credits: Racing Boys)

Ryan Truex’s voyage with Joe Gibbs Racing intensified in 2022 when he commanded the No. 18 Toyota Supra part-time. The team and Truex had been fervently working towards a full-time commitment for 2024. Since the start of the 2022 season, Truex has been the only driver to win in the Xfinity Series while driving Joe Gibbs Racing’s All-Star vehicle, and there is no debate about who should be full-time in the No. 19 car next year.

Ryan Truex’s journey within the NASCAR landscape has been marked by versatility. He has contributed to multiple teams, including Joe Gibbs Racing, Kaulig Racing, and Hattori Racing Enterprises, showcasing his adaptability and skill. Truex’s noteworthy achievements include a second-place finish at Dover in 2012 and a triumphant victory at Talladega Superspeedway in 2023. 

With one win and eight top-5 finishes in his Xfinity Series career, Truex exhibits consistency and potential. His statistics boast an impressive average finish of 13.2, underlining his competitive edge. In 2022, he piloted the No. 18 Toyota Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing part-time. Pursuing a full-time opportunity for the 2024 season culminates in success as he secures races and strives for more.

In case you missed it: