On October 3, 2025, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series made its first-ever stop at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL in Concord, N.C., delivering unexpected moments right from the start. The highly anticipated race quickly turned chaotic on the opening lap when multiple leaders collided in turn 1, reshaping the competition and disrupting playoff strategies. Among those affected was Brent Crews, whose strong performance throughout the race made him a standout, despite falling short of victory.
Early Chaos Creates Opportunity for Brent Crews
That initial crash between contenders cleared the way for Crews to take control. Although Crews’ TRICON Garage teammate Corey Heim was caught up in the incident and appeared out of contention, Crews capitalized on the situation, asserting dominance for nearly the entire race. Crews led 56 of the 70 laps, showcasing impressive speed and consistency on the challenging ROVAL layout. His decision to switch strategy in stage racing revealed a calculated risk aimed at securing a better finish rather than simply leading the most laps.
Despite the adversity, Heim managed an impressive recovery to finish second after the early crash, but he was unable to close the gap on Crews during the green-flag runs. The 17-year-old Crews appeared poised to claim his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win as the checkered flag neared.
Late-Race Setback Shifts Momentum
Just as Crews was building a commanding lead, misfortune struck when teammate Toni Breidinger ran out of fuel, bringing out a caution late in the race. This caution triggered an overtime restart, effectively erasing Crews’ lead and resetting the field. The incident allowed Heim to gain an advantage by staying out on the track while Crews and most other trucks pitted for fuel. As a result, Crews had to restart in seventh place, fighting his way back through the pack on the final laps.
Corey Heim Seizes Victory in a Chaotic Finish
The overtime restart proved pivotal. In the scramble at turn 7, several frontrunners who avoided pitting collided, opening the door for Heim to pull away and secure his tenth win of the 2025 season. Crews battled hard to regain positions but ultimately finished second, witnessing from nearby as Heim celebrated a significant milestone and advancement to the Championship 4.
Reflecting on the outcome, Crews acknowledged the harsh realities of racing, expressing his disappointment while recognizing the strength of his team’s effort.
Just hate it for my team that we weren’t able to go to victory lane today. We had the winning [truck] for sure there. Just sucks to run second.
Brent Crews, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver
Learning and Growth Amid NASCAR Competition
Crews is no stranger to racing success, with four national series wins in the ARCA Menards Series, which also count as combination wins with the East and West Series. However, the experience of leading laps and contending for a win in the Truck Series, particularly alongside tough competitors like Connor Zilisch and Corey Heim, is an important part of his development. Crews emphasized the unique challenges and learning opportunities that come with racing at this level.
Being able to race against those guys — you don’t get that opportunity all the time. So [I’m] grateful to be in that position and race against those two guys as well.
Brent Crews, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver
Optimism for the Road Ahead Despite Tough Break
Despite the disappointment of missing out on his breakthrough win, Crews remains hopeful about his future in the sport. Supported by Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing, the young driver understands that the highs and lows are part of motor racing, and he values the chance to compete at a high level at such a young age.
If we weren’t fast, then I wouldn’t be able to have these emotions. So I’m grateful to be able to have these highest of highs and lowest of lows.
Brent Crews, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver
As Brent Crews continues to build experience and gain exposure in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, his performance at the Charlotte ROVAL highlights both his talent and the unpredictability of racing. His ability to dominate most of the race, despite the obstacles and eventual heartbreak, suggests he will remain a formidable presence as the season progresses.
That escalated as quickly as possible. https://t.co/Y8KsauVLoq pic.twitter.com/ZICmocz2df
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) October 3, 2025
The yellow flag is being displayed once again.
We will have NASCAR Overtime at the ROVAL! pic.twitter.com/aRSs7MDRDB
— NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Trucks (@NASCAR_Trucks) October 3, 2025
