Every week, The Athletic poses the same 12 questions to a different race car driver. This week features Ryan Truex, a part-time driver for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, who, despite only nine starts, is tied for the second-most wins in the series this season. The following conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity, but the complete interview is available on the 12 Questions podcast.
1. What is currently the top item on your bucket list?
I would love to go snowboarding in the Swiss Alps; that sounds incredible. I enjoy cold-weather trips and snowboarding, and I’m hoping to avoid breaking any bones! my bucket list is centered around traveling and exploring new places.
2. How much media coverage of NASCAR do you keep up with?
A significant amount! Racing is my life; it’s what I’m passionate about. I’m active on Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit, so I come across many fan opinions about their perceptions of the sport compared to reality.
The rumors that circulate can be quite entertaining, especially when people are so convinced of their understanding of situations. When you’re in the know about what’s actually happening, you can really see the disconnect between how things operate from our perspective versus how they are perceived from the stands.
So you might be aware of a situation that you’re seeing people completely misinterpret?
Exactly! It’s amusing — they’re so sure of themselves. I often feel like responding on Twitter with, “You’re mistaken,” but that’s not my place. (Laughs.) I’ve come across various comments about myself over the last few weeks, and it’s clear that some folks just don’t get it.
3. Aside from winning, how else would you measure success in racing?
Longevity is important, such as how long you stay in the sport, along with the respect of your peers. Gaining respect from everyone in the garage indicates you’re doing something right and competing appropriately. Martin (Truex Jr., my older brother) has earned both respect and longevity after being in the sport for so long.
I struggle to choose between those two factors. Longevity suggests that if you maintain a full-time presence year after year, it means you’re effective and an asset to your team. However, respect reflects how you conduct yourself on and off the track, racing by the principles you hold dear. That’s a commendable way to embody a race car driver.
4. What is an opinion you hold about NASCAR that differs from the fans’ views?
People often underestimate technology’s role in the sport. There’s always resistance to change because it’s something new, different from the traditional NASCAR. While there’s a desire for it to remain man versus machine, evolution is essential. Whether it’s hybrid technology or advanced electronics, some fans might perceive these changes as leaning towards an F1 style. Yet, staying relevant with the times is crucial.
5. What do fans often overlook about your profession?
As a part-time driver, I spend a lot of time in the simulator. That’s essentially my full-time work. I’m there two or three times a week for about eight hours each day, specifically for JGR on the Cup side. That’s something many people might not realize. I’ve mentioned it, but I haven’t delved deeply into it.
That sounds intense. Doesn’t that take a toll on your brain after such long hours in the simulator?
Absolutely! It can be overwhelming. Last year I concluded my season…
I spent around 110 days there and completed roughly 25,000 laps over the year. Initially, it took some adaptation to maintain that level of activity. By the end of the day, my brain feels scrambled from constantly making laps, analyzing data, discussing it, and then continuing to circle the track, examining more data. It’s a cycle of driving and staring at squiggly lines.
Is it solely mentally exhausting, or does it have a physical component as well?
It’s primarily mental. Sitting in the same position for an extended period can also take a physical toll. It’s comparable to a long road trip; after eight straight hours of driving, you feel worn out—your legs, knees, and back ache. It’s essential to take breaks. I’ve spent considerable time at the Toyota gym focusing on recovery. Last year, when I began my sim work, I faced challenges related to soreness from prolonged sitting.
6. Let’s discuss a hot topic regarding you. You recently triumphed at Daytona. In today’s climate, is it feasible to convert an Xfinity Series victory into additional races, or is it still predominantly about sponsorships and funding? In other words, does a single win propel you forward significantly?
A few years back, I would have said, “If I win, I’ll be fine. The rest will take care of itself.” Even after my victory at Dover last year, I felt optimistic, thinking, “Great, I’m on track now. This is what I needed.” Unfortunately, that didn’t pan out.
Then I claimed another win at Dover this year. I thought, “Okay, I’ve won two out of six races. This has to secure me a ride.” The discussions become a bit more intense with every win. With the Daytona victory, it seemed to tip the scales further, making me wonder, “What more do I need to achieve? That’s three wins out of ten.”
Ultimately, this is a business based on sponsorships and assembling the right resources. The more I promote myself, demonstrate my winning potential, and ensure I provide significant TV exposure and engage in appealing off-track activities, the more likely it is to attract a sponsor.
All I can do is continue pushing for wins and hope for a positive outcome. I’m doing everything I can to connect with the right partners and unify all the elements. While victories certainly help, having the right collaborators is essential.
7. This next question is a bit of a wild card. You got engaged last year, almost a year ago now. How has the wedding planning process been for you? How involved are you in it?
It hasn’t been smooth. (Laughs.) I come from a large family, and when we tried to compile a guest list, it quickly rose to 250 people. We realized, “Okay, this isn’t going to work.”
We were also waiting on the (2025) schedule to be released and to see whether my brother would race full-time because it’s crucial for him to be there. That posed our first challenge, and the delay in the schedule’s release only prolonged our wait.
Now that the schedule is out, we’re planning to aim for mid-summer as our wedding date—most likely during one of the off weekends. That’s as far as we’ve progressed in our planning so far. Just earlier this month marked one year since our engagement, so after a year, we’re starting to sort things out.
8. What do you appreciate about your hometown? Mayetta, New Jersey.
Everything is conveniently close. My father’s house is nestled in the woods of Mayetta, and if you simply cross the main road, the bay is right there. A quick drive over the bridge takes you to Long Beach Island. The beach is just a ten-minute drive, while the Poconos are a mere two hours away. You have the option to relax on the beach or hit the slopes for snowboarding, both easily accessible. New York City is an hour and a half away, as is Philadelphia. There’s always something to do.
The experience of growing up by the ocean and spending time at the beach was definitely my favorite aspect. That’s what I miss the most now that I live in North Carolina. The lake is nice, but it doesn’t compare to the beach. I try to return as often as I can.
9. What personal quality makes you the most proud?
(Speaking softly.) Perhaps my tendency to be quiet?
I’m sorry, could you repeat that?
My quietness. See, you can barely hear me.
My dad always said that you have two ears and one mouth for a reason: to listen twice as much as you speak. I took that advice to heart, and I believe it has helped me avoid saying foolish things and speaking too hastily, especially when a microphone is in my face and I feel like going on a rant. It has certainly kept me out of trouble.
10. Which driver would be the least preferable company in an elevator?
Martin, because he would probably be passing gas constantly. That’s just what he would do. He would make it uncomfortable for everyone.
Deliberately?
Absolutely, on purpose. That’s just typical Martin behavior.
11. Can you share a driver encounter that the media or TV missed?
Back in 2010 at Lee Speedway in the K&N East series, Bubba (Wallace) and I had a run-in. As we approached the white flag, I was racing for the lead with Eddie MacDonald. Earlier, Bubba had gotten a flat tire, but after changing to a new right rear tire, he drove aggressively through the field. He caught up to us and attempted to go three-wide, forcing his way to the bottom.
He maneuvered us out of the way and clinched the victory.
After crossing the finish line, I encountered him. Andy Santerre, his car owner, rushed over to my window, while my team approached him. There was quite a commotion, but Bubba was nowhere to be seen.
After I finished second and completed my interview, I was in the media center outside the track. As I was making my way down, Bubba ascended towards me and confronted me directly. He said, “What was that all about?” It was just the two of us, with no one else around. Only a couple of fans in the grandstands noticed, exchanging glances and pointing, likely thinking we were about to throw punches. We were just two 16-year-olds.
Fortunately, nothing escalated. We had a conversation, but it was close to getting heated. He was clearly upset, which I can understand; I had just bumped into him after the race concluded.
However, I don’t know if anyone besides me, him, and perhaps his PR representative ever witnessed that moment. I know for sure there weren’t any cameras present. It was back in 2010, a time when most people didn’t have their phones out.
12. Each week, I request a driver to pose a question for the next interviewee. The last interview was with Juan Pablo Montoya. He asked: Would you be in favor of NASCAR reducing its schedule from 36 races to 20 to allow people more time for their lives?
Honestly, 36 races is quite a lot. Next year, isn’t it going to be around 28 consecutive races for the Cup Series? That’s insane. I attempted to race full-time once but only completed half of the schedule. And that was when I was 21, so the grind didn’t bother me as much.
The Truck Series schedule is quite ideal. It offers some weeks off here and there along with a few races in succession. A range of 26 to 28 races would be manageable. It would make things easier for me, as it costs less to sustain. This would enable me to attract more sponsors, which I wouldn’t mind at all.
If it were 20 races long, perhaps Martin wouldn’t have retired. I suspect many drivers wouldn’t have called it quits as early as they did. When you dedicate 20 years to racing without any type of off-weekends and compete through the summer, you end up missing numerous birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations. Being constantly away takes its toll. They’re not just idle during the week; most of them continue working, improving, and striving to learn more.
A shorter schedule would benefit everyone mentally—not only drivers but also team members and even you guys in the media. Everyone taking some time off to enjoy life could certainly make this demanding process a bit more pleasurable.
Do you have a question I can pose to the next driver? It’s Michael McDowell.
How did you maintain motivation during the challenging periods of your NASCAR career? What guidance would you offer to someone on a similar career path, whether in racing or other fields?
GO DEEPER
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(Top photo of Ryan Truex celebrating his win last month at Daytona: James Gilbert / Getty Images)
Ryan Truex’s Journey: Balancing Wins, Weddings, and the Winds of NASCAR
Background of Ryan Truex
Ryan Truex, born on July 2, 1992, in New Jersey, is not just a name in the NASCAR world; he represents dedication, talent, and resilience. As the younger brother of NASCAR champion Martin Truex Jr., Ryan has faced immense pressure to carve out his own path in racing. With a career spanning various racing series, Truex is making waves in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, showcasing his skill while navigating the challenges that come with being a professional driver.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Ryan Truex’s NASCAR journey has been marked by significant achievements and notable moments. Here are some key highlights:
- Debut in the NASCAR Truck Series: Truex made his Truck Series debut in 2009, showcasing his potential from the outset.
- Transition to Xfinity Series: In 2010, Truex transitioned to the Xfinity Series, where he began to gain more recognition.
- First Win: Truex clinched his first career win in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, a pivotal moment that solidified his presence in the sport.
- Consistent Performance: Over the years, Truex has consistently performed well, earning multiple top-10 finishes and building a solid reputation in the NASCAR community.
Balancing Personal Life and Professional Career
As Ryan Truex ascends in his career, he also navigates a busy personal life, including his recent marriage. The balance between professional racing and personal commitments is a challenge that many athletes face, and Truex has managed to embrace both worlds.
His Recent Wedding
Truex’s recent wedding has been a significant milestone in his life. Here are some highlights:
- Date: Truex tied the knot on April 15, 2023.
- Venue: The wedding took place in a picturesque setting, surrounded by family and friends.
- Support from the NASCAR Community: Fellow NASCAR drivers and teams showed their support, highlighting the camaraderie within the racing community.
Tips for Balancing Work and Personal Life
For athletes like Ryan Truex, maintaining balance between career and personal life is crucial. Here are some practical tips that can help:
- Set Priorities: Determine what matters most to you and allocate time accordingly.
- Schedule Time Off: Just like race days, set aside specific days for family and personal commitments.
- Practice Communication: Keep open lines of communication with your partner to ensure both sides understand each other’s commitments.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Engage in mindfulness practices to relieve stress and maintain focus.
Performance in NASCAR: Wins and Challenges
In the competitive world of NASCAR, wins are celebrated, but challenges are also an integral part of the journey. Ryan Truex has encountered both throughout his career.
Key Races and Wins
Truex’s performance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series has been impressive. Here’s a brief overview of some of his key races:
| Race | Date | Finish Position | Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| NASCAR Xfinity Series Race 1 | March 10, 2023 | 3rd | JR Motorsports |
| NASCAR Xfinity Series Race 2 | April 1, 2023 | 1st | JR Motorsports |
| NASCAR Xfinity Series Race 3 | May 15, 2023 | 5th | JR Motorsports |
Overcoming Adversity
Truex’s journey has not been without its challenges. Injuries, tough races, and personal setbacks have tested his resolve. However, his ability to bounce back demonstrates his tenacity. Key lessons from his experiences include:
- Resilience: Learning to push through difficult moments is crucial for success.
- Adaptability: Being flexible and adjusting strategies can lead to better outcomes.
- Support System: Having a strong support system from family, friends, and teammates can provide motivation and encouragement.
The Role of Family in Ryan’s Life
Family plays a critical role in Ryan Truex’s life, both personally and professionally. Growing up in a racing family, Ryan has always had both the support and the competitive spirit of his brother, Martin Truex Jr.
Influence of Martin Truex Jr.
Having an elder brother who is a NASCAR champion brings both advantages and challenges. Ryan has often shared how Martin’s success has inspired him to work harder and strive for excellence in his own racing career.
Family Support During Races
Family is often present at Ryan’s races, providing moral support and encouraging him through the ups and downs of his career. This familial presence at events adds a personal touch, reminding Ryan of the importance of balancing work and family life.
The Future of Ryan Truex in NASCAR
Looking ahead, Ryan Truex’s potential in NASCAR seems limitless. With a growing fan base, improved performance, and his ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of the sport, he is poised for a successful future.
Upcoming Goals and Aspirations
Truex has set several goals for his future in racing, including:
- Winning More Races: Aiming for multiple wins in the upcoming season.
- Building Stronger Relationships: Enhancing partnerships with team sponsors and fellow drivers.
- Expanding His Brand: Developing his brand through social media and community engagement.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
Alongside his racing career, Ryan Truex is also committed to giving back to the community. He participates in several charitable events and initiatives focused on helping children and promoting sportsmanship.
- Local Charity Events: Truex often participates in local charity races and fundraisers.
- Promotion of Youth Sports: Advocating for youth involvement in sports, encouraging the next generation of racers.
Conclusion
Ryan Truex’s journey in NASCAR is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Balancing personal milestones like his wedding with the demands of a racing career, he continues to strive for excellence both on and off the track. With the support of family, the NASCAR community, and a clear vision for his future, Ryan Truex is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of NASCAR.
