“NASCAR Is Near Death”: Toyota Report Raises Bankruptcy Concerns

It seems like Toyota Racing Development (TRD) is optimistic about expanding its lineup in 2024. Being one of the three manufacturers in NASCAR, TRD is looking forward to adding new teams under its wing. But wait, why aren’t the NASCAR fans happy about this?

Around 16 years ago, TRD aimed to target around one-fourth of the car share amidst the 43-car NASCAR Cup Series field. However, to date, the manufacturers have only been able to achieve a single-digit Cup fleet. With only two other competitors in the market, it’s time for TRD to expand its car lineup.

But in spite of TRD’s optimism for expansion, NASCAR fans do not approve of this. In fact, they are worried about the current teams associated with TRD. Moreover, a few fans aren’t able to understand where will TRD find the money for expansion when they couldn’t even retain Joe Gibbs Racing’s #18 car.

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The concerns raised by fans cannot be ignored. However, it’s also true that it’s time for TRD to amp up its game.

Toyota Racing Development on NASCAR expansion 

Currently, two NASCAR Cup Series teams have been associated with Toyota Racing Development. With Joe Gibbs Racing’s four and 23XI Racing two full-time Camrys in the 2022 Cup, the manufacturers were able to field only 6 cars in the 37-car field.

However, now, TRD is looking forward to growing this number. As reported by NBC, TRD President David Wilson seems confident about his team’s strategy for 2024. While talking about the expansion plans, Wilson said,

“We’ve got some good irons in the fire now. What was once a very effective strategy to amass our resources across fewer cars, with the marginalization of the areas that we have to play in and the flattening out of the playing field, we definitely need some more help.”

Moreover, Wilson shared that their strategy is currently focused on new teams that are planning to enter the market. He revealed that TRD has been in talks with at least two interested potential car owners and denied the possibility of partnering up with existing Chevrolet teams, He said, “The good news is there’s a lot of interest. The bad news is you don’t have to worry about Penske or Hendrick.”

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TRD’s mission to expand is a reflection of its willingness to stay competitive. And this competition will indirectly have an effect on the sport, making it more fun and intriguing.