Greg Van Alst Motorsports is intensifying its preparations for the upcoming 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series season, which kicks off on February 13, 2026, at Daytona International Speedway in Florida. Following notable progress during its initial season, the team is focused on building competitiveness with veteran driver Greg Van Alst behind the wheel of the No. 35 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.
Aiming Higher After a Promising Rookie Season
In 2025, Greg Van Alst competed in four races, including appearances at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Bristol Motor Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, and the season finale at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona. Achieving a career-best finish of 18th at Phoenix marked a significant step forward, surpassing his previous best of 25th at Talladega. Van Alst qualified for the Championship Race on speed and used the event’s 161 laps to refine the handling balance of his No. 35 truck.
With substantial offseason investments in advanced equipment and shop upgrades, the team has laid a stronger foundation aimed at consistent improvement. These enhancements are designed to help Van Alst and his crew compete regularly for top-15 finishes throughout the season.
Greg Van Alst’s Thoughts on Building Momentum
Last season gave us a solid foundation to build on,
said Greg Van Alst.
“We learned a lot in a short amount of time, especially in Phoenix, and we’ve carried that momentum into the offseason.”
We’ve invested in the right areas, upgraded our equipment, and focused on the fundamentals that will allow us to keep improving. Our goal is to be more competitive every week and put ourselves in a position to fight for top-15 finishes throughout the season.
Daytona: A Memorable Venue with Fresh Challenges
Van Alst, a native of Anderson, Indiana, recalls his memorable victory during the 2023 ARCA Menards Series opener at Daytona, where a last-lap pass secured his first career ARCA win. Known for its 2.5-mile superspeedway and unpredictable racing dynamics, Daytona International Speedway remains one of motorsports’ most iconic venues, combining speed with spectacle to launch the racing calendar.
Daytona will always be special to me,
added Van Alst.
“I’m ready to make new memories, though. I don’t expect it to be easy to make the field, but we’ve learned a lot about our superspeedway truck since Talladega last October.”
I’m confident that once we’re locked into the field, my drafting experience and our race strategy will put us in a position to contend for a strong finish and hopefully carry momentum into our second year of Truck Series competition.
Partnerships Strengthening the Team’s Future
While final agreements for the Fresh from Florida 250 race at Daytona are still underway, Greg Van Alst Motorsports will continue to benefit from the support of longstanding partners Phil’s Heating and Air and Prescott Tire Pros & Automotive Service throughout the 2026 season. Their backing plays a key role in the team’s ability to enhance resources and progress with confidence.
Having partners who believe in what we’re building means a lot to our team,
Van Alst reflected.
“Phil’s Heating and Air and Prescott Tire Pros & Automotive Service have supported us from the start, and their continued commitment allows us to keep investing in our program and taking the next steps forward throughout the season.
We look forward to making additional announcements as we get closer to Daytona and as the 2026 season progresses.
Looking Ahead to the Fresh from Florida 250
The Fresh from Florida 250, a 100-lap event, is scheduled for Friday evening, February 13, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Fans can follow the race live via FOX Sports 1 (FS1), the Motor Racing Network, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio Channel 90. As the season opener at the World Center of Racing, this race will set the tone for the year and test the growth of Greg Van Alst Motorsports.
What This Means for Greg Van Alst and His Team
Greg Van Alst’s return to Daytona and his continued commitment to expanding his NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program symbolize a crucial phase of growth. Building on the foundation established in 2025 with improved equipment and strategic partnerships, the team is poised to challenge more consistently against seasoned competitors.
The experience gained on superspeedways like Talladega and Daytona will be vital in refining race strategies and maximizing drafting tactics, potentially elevating Greg Van Alst Motorsports into regular contention for top-15 finishes. Success in 2026 could prove essential in solidifying the team’s status and attracting additional support as the season unfolds.
