Travis Pastrana is back behind the wheel, competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at the Daytona International Speedway, driving the No. 42 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet. This return holds special significance as he shares the track once again with Tony Stewart, the three-time Cup champion who aided Pastrana during his early NASCAR career.
Pastrana’s respect for Stewart runs deep, with vivid memories of their collaboration still resonating. Speaking at a pre-race media gathering, Pastrana described receiving a recent text message from Stewart, calling the moment “freaking fantastic.”
“Dude, I got a text from Tony Stewart like two days ago, it was freaking fantastic.”
— Travis Pastrana, NASCAR driver
Memories from Pastrana’s First Daytona Xfinity Race
Reflecting on his rookie season, Pastrana recounted a defining race at Daytona. Stewart, racing part-time in the Xfinity Series for Richard Childress Racing, started strong near the front but then fell back to gauge his car. Pastrana, on the other hand, began the race in fourth place driving the No. 60 Ford for Roush Fenway Racing alongside teammate Trevor Bayne.
While Pastrana was positioned towards the rear, Stewart’s spotter instructed Pastrana to draft closely behind Stewart. Together with Casey Kahne trailing them, the trio surged forward, breaking into the top 10.
Reliving that moment, Pastrana shared:
“I lost Tony, now he went on to win, and I went across the finish line backwards. But I was still a top 10 finish. He goes from the front, drops to the back, has my spotter tell me to get on his bumper, and takes me all the way up to the front. It was freaking awesome. I hope he does it again.”
— Travis Pastrana, NASCAR driver
Dynamic Interactions and Lasting Impact from Early NASCAR Days
During a recent press conference alongside fellow driver and personality Cleetus McFarland, the two discussed the excitement of sharing the track with Stewart. McFarland’s playful gesture of removing Pastrana’s sleeves highlighted the camaraderie and intensity of the event.
This shared moment of racing and fellowship continues to energize Pastrana’s passion for NASCAR, stemming from that initial breakthrough experience with Stewart.
Pastrana’s Journey: From X Games to NASCAR Challenges
Having earned acclaim in motocross, rally driving, and powerboat racing, Pastrana’s dedication to competitive motorsports is well established. His ongoing pursuit of NASCAR success is evident as he races once more at Daytona. In 2023, he finished 13th in the Truck Series race and later achieved an 11th-place finish in a Cup Series start at the same venue.
These performances underscore Pastrana’s willingness to embrace challenges and grow within the racing community, with his returning presence at Daytona signaling continued determination and ambition under the bright lights.
The Enduring Bond Between Pastrana and Stewart on the Track
The relationship between Pastrana and Tony Stewart remains a vital part of Pastrana’s NASCAR story. Stewart’s mentorship and race strategy once helped Pastrana secure a top-10 finish, a memory he treasures deeply. This connection not only highlights the significance of veteran support for rising drivers but also represents the spirit of teamwork and respect that defines NASCAR’s competitive environment.
As both drivers continue to share the track, fans can anticipate more moments of collaboration and excitement, with Pastrana’s career reflecting the influence of Stewart’s guidance and lasting encouragement.
Cleetus McFarland and @TravisPastrana had an interesting press conference today.
McFarland ripped off Pastrana's sleeves, and they talked about sharing the track with @TonyStewart. pic.twitter.com/ojVjdXNIzq
— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) February 13, 2026
