WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. — July 30, 2025 — There’s a new name to watch in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series paddock. Rising road racing talent Gian Buffomante is set to make his series debut at the upcoming Watkins Glen International event, suiting up for RBR (Reaume Brothers Racing) in what promises to be a high-profile entry into the NASCAR world.
Buffomante, a former standout in SCCA Trans Am, IMSA, and various road course disciplines, will pilot a Ford Performance-backed truck as part of RBR’s ongoing initiative to elevate diverse talent with a focus on technical skill and racecraft.
🛻 Meet Gian Buffomante
Gian Buffomante has long been considered one of America’s top young road racers. Known for his calculated aggression and precision on technical courses, the New York native has built a resume that includes:
Multiple podiums in the Trans Am TA2 category Wins in IMSA-sanctioned GT4 and club-level endurance events A reputation for excelling in wet-weather and high-pressure situations
Now, at just 22 years old, Buffomante makes the leap to NASCAR — and at one of the series’ most demanding tracks.
🏁 Why Watkins Glen?
Watkins Glen, a flowing 2.45-mile road course with deep racing history, is the ideal proving ground for a driver with Buffomante’s background. It features technical sections, high-speed esses, and critical braking zones — all areas where road course specialists can shine in stock cars.
RBR is no stranger to tapping into road course ringers for high-upside starts, and Buffomante fits that mold perfectly.
🔊 Team Statement: Reaume Brothers Racing
RBR team owner Josh Reaume expressed confidence in the newcomer:
“Gian has shown tremendous maturity and talent across every level he’s competed in. We’re excited to give him the opportunity to show what he can do at Watkins Glen. We believe he has the tools to surprise a lot of people.”
The effort is part of RBR’s broader partnership with Ford Performance, which continues to support development-focused entries throughout the Truck Series schedule.
🔧 Truck & Entry Details
Driver: Gian Buffomante Team: Reaume Brothers Racing (RBR) Truck Number: TBA Manufacturer: Ford F-150 Primary Sponsor: Ford Performance Debut Race: NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Watkins Glen (Date: TBA) Crew Chief: To be announced
🗓 What’s Next
The Watkins Glen event will mark Buffomante’s first sanctioned NASCAR start, but if all goes well, RBR has hinted at potential future appearances later in the season or in 2026. This debut is not only a showcase for Buffomante’s ability to adapt to the Truck Series format but also a trial balloon for future crossover talent.
📢 Final Word
As NASCAR continues to welcome road racing talent into its ecosystem, Gian Buffomante joins a growing list of drivers looking to blend traditional motorsport expertise with the unique demands of stock car competition.
The Watkins Glen weekend just got a lot more interesting — and fans should keep a close eye on the No. TBA Ford when the trucks take the green flag.
Want a closer look at Buffomante’s racing resume, Watkins Glen race preview, or RBR’s 2025 lineup strategy? Let me know!
