Taylor Gray, the driver of the No. 17 Toyota Tundra for TRICON Garage, who qualified for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Playoffs this season, will transition to the NASCAR Xfinity Series full-time in 2025. He will drive the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota GR Supra, working alongside crew chief Tyler Allen.
JGR announced this development officially on Wednesday afternoon.
SIGNED ?? @TaylorGray17_ will wheel the 54 Toyota GR Supra full-time in the #NASCAR @XfinityRacing series in 2025!#TeamToyota pic.twitter.com/vI6cY1rzHR
— Joe Gibbs Racing (@JoeGibbsRacing) October 16, 2024
Gray expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, in a team press release, “I am very thankful for this opportunity. I feel I have learned a lot in the races I’ve participated in this year, and we can build on that next season. Having the chance to work with Tyler (Allen, crew chief) and these guys for a few races has given us a great head start for the upcoming season and helped establish our chemistry. I’m truly excited about what we can accomplish together full-time.”
Gray, 19, although still seeking his first victory in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, has showcased his talent with two top-five finishes and three top-10 results in 12 starts this season while racing for Joe Gibbs Racing. The team is eager to include this young, skilled driver in their full-time lineup next season.
Steve de Souza, Executive Vice President of Xfinity Series and Development for JGR, remarked, “We’re looking forward to adding Taylor to our lineup full-time next year. Taylor’s impressive season in the Truck Series, alongside his performances with us in the Xfinity Series, have truly stood out. With him driving the Xfinity car every week in 2025, we anticipate this trend to continue, and we are excited to see him contend for wins and the championship.”
Gray made a notable impression during his series debut at Richmond Raceway in the spring, achieving his best career finish to date with a third-place result, trailing behind his Joe Gibbs Racing teammates Chandler Smith and Aric Almirola.
The younger sibling of NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series contender Tanner Gray currently holds sixth place in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship standings with three races left in the season.
Before joining the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series full-time in 2023, Gray had made a name for himself in the ARCA Menards Series by securing three wins in a part-time 2022 season and finishing as the runner-up in the ARCA Menards Series East championship standings that same year.
Gray accumulated a total of nine wins across the three ARCA Menards Series divisions (National, East, and West) prior to advancing to the NASCAR National Series.
Taylor Gray to Transition to Full-Time NASCAR Xfinity Series Driver with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025
Overview of Taylor Gray’s Career
Taylor Gray has made significant waves in the world of motorsports, showcasing his talent and passion for racing since his early days. As he gears up for a full-time position in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with the prestigious Joe Gibbs Racing team in 2025, here’s a look at his journey and what this transition means for him and the team.
Early Beginnings
- Born on January 8, 2004, Gray’s racing journey began at a young age.
- He quickly progressed through various karting leagues, showcasing his natural talent.
- In 2020, Taylor made his debut in the ARCA Menards Series, establishing himself as a promising driver.
Notable Achievements
| Year | Series | Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | ARCA Menards Series | Debut season with multiple top-5 finishes. |
| 2021 | ARCA Menards Series | First career win at Winchester Speedway. |
| 2022 | ARCA Menards Series | Victory at Talladega Superspeedway. |
Transition to NASCAR Xfinity Series
Announced in late 2023, Gray’s transition to a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series driver with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025 marks a pivotal moment in his racing career. This move is a testament to his hard work and determination in the highly competitive world of motorsports.
Why Joe Gibbs Racing?
Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) is one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history, known for producing exceptional talent and winning numerous championships. Here’s why this partnership is significant:
- Legacy of Success: JGR has a rich history in NASCAR, with multiple Cup Series championships and Xfinity Series titles.
- Development Opportunities: Taylor will have access to top-tier resources, coaching, and technology to hone his skills further.
- Team Cohesion: Racing alongside established drivers will help Taylor adapt quickly to the rigors of the Xfinity Series.
What to Expect in 2025
Season Overview
The 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season promises excitement and potential for Taylor Gray as he steps into a full-time role. Here are some expectations:
- Learning Curve: Adjusting to the demands of a full-time schedule and handling the pressures of competition will be crucial.
- Building Experience: With races spanning across the country, each event will serve as a valuable learning experience.
- Fan Engagement: Taylor’s youthful energy can attract a new demographic of fans to the sport.
Key Races in the 2025 Schedule
| Date | Race | Location |
|---|---|---|
| February 19 | Daytona International Speedway | Daytona Beach, FL |
| April 23 | Bristol Motor Speedway | Bristol, TN |
| June 10 | Texas Motor Speedway | Fort Worth, TX |
Benefits of Transitioning to Full-Time Driver
Transitioning to a full-time driver in the NASCAR Xfinity Series carries numerous benefits:
- Increased Exposure: Competing full-time offers Taylor greater visibility and opportunities for sponsorships.
- Skill Development: Regular races will sharpen his racing skills, enhancing his competitiveness.
- Team Support: The backing of Joe Gibbs Racing will provide a solid foundation as he navigates challenges on the track.
Challenges Ahead
While the prospects are bright, challenges are also on the horizon:
- Pressure to Perform: With high expectations, balancing performance and mental toughness will be vital.
- Rookie Mistakes: As with any rookie, adapting to the level of competition can lead to challenges.
- Managing Expectations: Taylor will need to navigate both personal and external expectations throughout the season.
Conclusion
The transition of Taylor Gray to a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series driver with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025 is a promising development for both the young driver and the legendary team. With the right support, dedication, and talent, Gray is poised to make his mark in the world of NASCAR, captivating fans and competitors alike.
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