What Is The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series?
One of NASCAR’s three divisions, The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series is an event dedicated to makeshift pickup truck racing.
It trades standard stock cars for V8 powered pickups. Although not as hugely popular as NASCAR’s other divisions, it still has a large fanbase and its uniqueness has started to attract an increasing amount of attention globally. This post explains more about this event and why you might want to tune in.
When did the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series start?
This series began in 1995 as the NASCAR SuperTruck Series. It quickly became a hit for its close, intense racing – the use of trucks providing an extra level of ruggedness to each race.
It was rebranded to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 1996, then the Camping World and Gander Outdoors Truck Series in 2008, and now it is back to being the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Where do NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races take place?
These races take place at venues across the US – including oval speedways and street courses.
This includes iconic venues like Daytona International Speedway, Darlington Raceway and Talladega Superspeedway.
Seasons begin in February with the most recent season beginning on the 13th February of this year.
Why check out the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series?
The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series has become an incubator for rising stars. Many drivers who now compete in the NASCAR Cup Series cut their teeth racing pickups.
At the same time, the race also has its fair share of veteran drivers like Matt Crafton, Stewart Friesen and Grant Efinger.
This mix of young and old talent makes for some dynamic racing. Many races in this series can be a bit more chaotic, both as a result of the type of vehicle and varied experience of the drivers. There’s more bumping and banging because these vehicles are more robust – drivers aren’t as afraid to lean into other drivers.
Races are usually shorter than other Cup events, which keeps the intensity high from start to finish. Restarts are wild, with three-wide action being common. Because the trucks punch a big hole in the air, drafting and aerodynamics play a major role, especially on larger tracks. On short tracks, it’s all about braking and corner exit (and sometimes using the bumper to move someone out of the way).
What vehicles are used in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series?
The trucks used in these events are purpose-built race machines. There are three primary models used in these races – Chevrolet Silverado RST, Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra TRD Pro. These are modded with powerful engines, safety cages and advanced suspension.
The event has boosted sales of these particular pickups with many fans searching for a Ford F-150 for sale after a weekend at the speedway.
How to get into the the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
Races are broadcast by FS1 and also Fox. You can also stream every race on Fubo. On top of this, you can watch highlights on Youtube.
Attending races in person is recommended if you live or are traveling near one of the speedways. Tickets are much cheaper than regular NASCAR Cup events while the atmosphere can be equally electric.
