Todd Gilliland has grown from a two-time K&N Pro Series West champion to a rising star in the Cup Series, competing full-time since 2022. But come 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. He will be swapping his car for another charter from the team, and this car means a lot to him and his family legacy.

For Todd, this isn’t just a seat swap; it’s a full-circle moment. As he trades out the No. 38 Ford Mustang, Todd Gilliland isn’t just racing to prove himself; he has the responsibility of the Gilliland name to uphold as Trackhouse Racing prepares for an exciting season.

Todd Gilliland to race his father’s car in 2025

Todd Gilliland is making the news as a major shift in his NASCAR Cup Series career presents itself. Starting in 2025, he’ll be piloting Front Row Motorsports’ flagship No. 34 Ford Mustang. It is to be noted that this is the same car that his father, David Gilliland, drove during his time in NASCAR. What better way of judging the driver’s success than to put him under the pressure of keeping up to his father’s name?

After the announcement, Gilliland explained, “It’s humbling,” in a press release. “The No. 34 Love’s Travel Stops Ford Mustang isn’t just another ride—it’s a legacy. My dad drove this car for FRM, and now I get to carry that torch. I still remember watching him race the Love’s Ford; it’s surreal that it’s my turn now.” 

Since his Cup Series debut in 2022, Todd Gilliland has been behind the wheel of the No. 38 Ford Mustang, steadily improving with each season. 2024 was a breakout year for him, where he finished 22nd. Even his consistency improved over time, with Gilliland staying on the lead lap in 24 races and avoiding DNFs in all but three events.

“I’ve seen this team grow, and I know the expectations are higher now,” Gilliland explained. “Love’s Travel Stops has been such a big part of this team’s success, and it’s an honor to have their trust as we aim for wins and playoff spots next year. I’m ready to step up to the challenge.” 

Love’s Travel Stops will continue to serve as the primary sponsor of the No. 34, marking their 13th season with FRM giving Todd Gilliland a chance to walk in his father’s shoes, and fans are excited about it. FRM hasn’t yet announced who will be Gilliland’s crew chief for the 2025 campaign; however, many fans hope that it’s with the same crew he has been running so far.

As the 2025 season approaches, Gilliland is focused on carrying the momentum from his 2024 campaign. “This is a huge opportunity,” he acknowledged. “I’m grateful, and I’m ready to make the most of it.” The 24-year-old driver knows what he is signing up for, and with the support of his team and family, he will give it everything next year.

Seeing the news on X made many fans happy to see that Todd gets to drive his father’s car number, and they started to flock to the comments section. Let’s take a look at what they had to say.

Fans celebrate Todd Gilliland keeping it in the family by driving the No. 34 next year

Fans are absolutely stoked about Todd Gilliland stepping into the No. 34 Ford Mustang for

Front Row Motorsports in 2025, and their reactions reflect just how cool this moment is for both him and his family legacy. One fan pointed out the rarity of the situation, saying, “How many fathers and sons have driven the same exact Cup car and sponsored the same team across different eras? That’s pretty cool.” It’s true—this kind of legacy is something special, and seeing Todd take over his dad’s car number really hits home for a lot of people.

Another fan gave a nod to the family resemblance, joking, “Like father, like son. BTW, who’s getting the 38?” That comment shows how much people are paying attention, wondering what’s next for the No. 38 car now that Todd is moving to the 34.

But it’s not all just nostalgia; there’s real excitement for Gilliland’s future too. “Love this for Todd!!” one fan said simply, showing their support for his big opportunity that is more sentimental than anything else. Another couldn’t contain their excitement, writing, “LETS GOOOOOOOO!!!! Congratulations @ToddGilliland_glad to see your family back in the Loves colors!!!!” It’s clear fans are pumped to see the Gilliland name’s legacy continue with Love’s Travel Stops backing him.

One fan even predicted big things for Todd, saying, “Pretty freaking awesome. Gonna be a playoff contender for sure; Todd is a hell of a driver; he’s gotten consistently better every year.” This fan sees Todd’s steady progress over the years and believes he’s now in a prime position to take things to the next level in 2025.

With that said, do you think that Todd Gilliland will be able to keep up to his father’s name and pull off 2025 successfully? Share your thoughts in the comments below.