Martin Truex Jr. is set to make a dramatic return to NASCAR competition, announcing his entry in the 2024 Daytona 500 with Tricon Garage. The 2017 Cup Series champion, who retired from full-time racing after the 2024 season, will pilot the No. 56 Toyota in NASCAR’s premier event on February 16.

Adding to the intrigue, Truex’s celebrated crew chief Cole Pearn will also emerge from retirement to lead the effort. The dynamic duo, who together claimed 24 victories and the 2017 championship, are reuniting for a shot at the one major achievement that has eluded them – a Daytona 500 victory. Truex came agonizingly close in 2016, finishing second to Denny Hamlin by a mere 0.010 seconds.

The attempt holds additional significance as it marks Tricon Garage’s debut in the Cup Series. The David Gilliland-owned organization, primarily known for its presence in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, will receive technical support from Joe Gibbs Racing for this ambitious endeavor.

“It’s going to be a really cool deal to be able to work with Cole and have the number 56 again,” Truex said in the team’s announcement. The 44-year-old veteran, whose illustrious career includes 34 Cup Series wins and two Xfinity Series titles, will be supported by longtime partner Bass Pro Shops, extending a relationship that dates back to his Cup Series debut in 2004.

The entry will be unchartered, meaning Truex must race his way into what would be his 21st Daytona 500. Team owner Gilliland expressed confidence in his driver choice: “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.”

The effort maintains Truex’s connection with Toyota, a partnership that began in 2016 and includes his successful tenure with Joe Gibbs Racing. For Tricon Garage, which transitioned to Toyota before the 2023 season, this high-profile entry represents a bold step forward as they continue to expand their NASCAR presence.

The combination of Truex’s experience, Pearn’s strategic expertise, and Tricon’s ambition sets the stage for what could be one of the most compelling storylines of the 2025 Daytona 500.

Photo by Tricon Garage