David Gilliland, a veteran NASCAR driver and current co-owner of TRICON Garage, made headlines in the offseason when he mentioned that his role has shifted away from driving, as the team’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series program is now fully staffed with talented drivers. However, with TRICON Garage planning to field a Cup Series entry at the Daytona 500, fans are buzzing with speculation—and hope—that Gilliland might step back into the driver’s seat for a superspeedway race or two.
A Proven Superspeedway Specialist
Gilliland’s career has been defined by his ability to excel at superspeedway tracks. His most iconic moment came in 2006, when he shocked the racing world by winning the NASCAR Busch Series race at Kentucky Speedway, a victory that propelled him into the NASCAR Cup Series. Throughout his career, Gilliland has earned multiple top finishes at Daytona and Talladega, solidifying his reputation as a skilled superspeedway racer.
Fans believe that his experience and calm demeanor behind the wheel could make him an excellent choice to pilot TRICON’s Cup car at Daytona.
TRICON Garage’s Expanding Horizons
TRICON Garage, a powerhouse in the Truck Series, has grown significantly over the past few years. Their decision to field a Cup Series entry at Daytona marks a major milestone for the organization. While the driver for the team’s Cup effort has yet to be announced, the news has sparked hope that Gilliland could be the one to take the wheel.
In the offseason, Gilliland expressed his satisfaction with his ownership role and his pride in TRICON Garage’s talented lineup. However, he didn’t entirely close the door on a potential return to the driver’s seat, saying, “I still love racing, but right now my focus is on building this team and giving our drivers the best opportunities to succeed.”
A Fan-Fueled Dream
Fans have taken to social media to express their desire to see Gilliland suit up for Daytona. Many point to his wealth of experience and history of success at superspeedways as key reasons why he’d be a perfect fit for the Cup entry.
“David Gilliland is one of the best when it comes to superspeedway racing,” one fan wrote. “If TRICON is running at Daytona, why not put him in the car? It’d be a great story and a chance for him to show he’s still got it.”
Others see it as an opportunity for Gilliland to lead by example, showcasing the team’s capabilities on the sport’s biggest stage while providing valuable feedback to help improve the organization’s Cup program.
Challenges and Possibilities
While the idea of Gilliland running at Daytona is enticing, it may not align with TRICON Garage’s long-term goals. The team is focused on building a competitive foundation in both the Truck and Cup Series, and they may choose to field a younger driver or a seasoned veteran with recent Cup Series experience.
That said, Gilliland’s name still carries weight in the NASCAR community, and his return to the driver’s seat, even for a one-off race, could bring significant attention to TRICON’s Cup debut.
A Wishful Yet Plausible Scenario
David Gilliland’s return to racing at Daytona would undoubtedly be a feel-good story for NASCAR fans and a nostalgic moment for those who’ve followed his career. While it’s unclear whether he’ll suit up for TRICON Garage’s Cup entry, the idea isn’t entirely far-fetched. Gilliland has the experience, the skill, and the connection to the team to make it happen.
As TRICON prepares for its highly anticipated Cup Series debut, fans will be watching closely to see who gets the nod for Daytona. Whether it’s Gilliland or another driver, one thing is certain: TRICON’s entry is already creating plenty of buzz ahead of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.
Would you like to see David Gilliland return for a superspeedway race? Let us know your thoughts!
