Tricon Garage announced Monday that it has signed Gio Ruggiero to pilot the No. 17 Toyota for the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season.
The Toyota Racing Development prospect takes over for Taylor Gray, who drove for Tricon in 2023-2024 and will move to the Xfinity Series in 2025 with Joe Gibbs Racing.
It will mark the rookie season for the 18-year-old wheelman who spent time in the ARCA Menards Series before landing the gig with Tricon.
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“I am super thankful to have the opportunity to run full-time with Tricon in 2025,” Ruggiero said in a statement. “I look forward to getting to work with all of the guys on the 17 team and contending for wins this season.”
Ruggiero collected seven top fives and nine top 10s in 10 starts in the ARCA Menards Series in 2024 and earned a victory in the ARCA Menards East Series at Five Flags Speedway. He also owns a decorated short-track resume that is highlighted by a Winchester 400 trophy.
“Gio has shown a lot of promise in his young career, and we are super excited to welcome him into our program,” said Tricon partner David Gilliland. “Jumping into the Truck Series is no small feat, but Gio has proven that he adapts quickly, and we have no doubt that he will have a successful rookie season with us as he takes over the 17 truck.”
Ruggiero’s signing fills out the Tricon lineup for 2025, which includes Corey Heim, Tanner Gray and Toni Breidinger.
MORE: Breidinger to run full-time for Tricon in 2025