2 weeks ago
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Martin Truex Jr. will soon say goodbye to NASCAR and begin a new chapter in his life. It won’t be easy for the experienced NASCAR driver to change his life so drastically, but Truex Jr. understands that there comes a time when you have to say goodbye and that younger drivers need to be given a chance.
In an interview with FOX, Truex shared his thoughts with fans ahead of the Sunday finale of the 2024 season. It’s bound to be an emotional moment, especially considering he’s been a part of the big stage for so many years. The veteran NASCAR driver admitted that he will miss the team, certain individuals, and the races he’s grown accustomed to over the years. There are countless moments he’ll never forget, and they will always be a part of him.
“The team, working with the guys, just having that camaraderie and sharing that passion for trying to win and working hard at it,” Truex said, as quoted by On3.
“The relationships are really what you take from here and things that will go on for years to come."
The 44-year-old admits that he will cherish his trophies and reflect nostalgically on the moments and successes he’s left behind in NASCAR. It’s not easy to be part of this story for so many years, building relationships, meeting new people, and collecting countless anecdotes, only to suddenly bring the chapter to a close in this sport. However, it’s a phase in every athlete’s career, and Truex Jr. knows it’s his time. After retiring, he will surely focus on other aspects of his life.
“You get to keep the trophies, and you get to go back and look at videos and all the stats and all the things; they’re always there to see. But you miss the people, just seeing all the guys at the track every weekend.”
Truex explained that the constant travel and the hectic routine of preparing for races every Thursday have been non-stop throughout his career. He mentioned how tiring it has been and that, after retiring, he’ll enjoy the freedom of not having his schedule set months in advance. What he’s looking forward to the most is having time for himself to do whatever he wants, while still getting the chance to race occasionally. In the end, it’s about doing things on his own terms.
Of course, the constant travel, racing, and pressure can create a lot of stress, and sometimes it’s not easy to handle so many responsibilities. Truex Jr. has felt that in his career. The experienced driver seems, in a way, relieved that his career is coming to an end. Life as a NASCAR driver involves sacrificing a lot, including time away from family, and, as we mentioned, constant travel. Balancing everything is difficult. However, each driver has an immense passion and love for NASCAR, and they’re willing to take risks and make sacrifices to achieve success.
The 44-year-old has achieved a lot throughout his career, but without a doubt, his greatest moment came seven years ago when he won the NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Many drivers who have been in the NASCAR scene for years, and who statistically may have been better than him, never managed to accomplish that feat. When Truex Jr. looks back on his career, he’ll certainly have plenty of reasons to be proud and happy with what he’s achieved.
Martin Truex Jr. reflects on his last race
Truex shared with FOX’s Bob Pockrass that for his final full-time race, he’d love to spoil the championship party for someone else by winning. He mentioned that it would be incredible to win, especially since they’ve had success there in the past, and he's hoping to find something extra to give them an edge in the race. We have no doubt that he will give his last atom of strength in this race so that his farewell will be in the right style.
While he acknowledged that winning the championship was out of reach, Truex emphasized that going out with a win would still be an amazing way to end his full-time career. Finally, he just wants to have fun and enjoy the final race with his team.
The final race will undoubtedly draw massive attention, as we can expect a phenomenal event that will determine the winner. The experienced Truex is ready to give his all to close his NASCAR chapter in the best possible way, but he knows it won’t be easy. Truex’s fans will find it hard to watch his last race, though they understand that some things are inevitable and must be accepted.
English (US)