NASCAR’s Craftsman Truck Series returns to the iconic Pocono Raceway this Friday for the MillerTech Battery 200. This 200-mile event promises high-speed action on one of NASCAR’s most unique circuits, featuring a mix of veteran talent and rising stars. Below, we explore the rich history of Pocono Raceway, the evolution of this specific Truck Series race, and analyze the top contenders for victory in this year’s extended-distance showdown.
History and Configuration of Pocono Raceway
Pocono Raceway’s development began in 1962 when Racing, Inc. purchased over 1,025 acres in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania, for what was then envisioned as the “Pocono Mountains International Raceway”. Financial disputes and construction delays plagued the project, with a lien filed by contractors in 1966 and legal battles halting progress for nearly two years.
The track finally opened in 1969 with a tri-oval layout – a distinctive 2.5-mile (4.0 km) circuit featuring three turns modeled after different legendary tracks: Turn 1 (banked at 14°) resembles Trenton Speedway, Turn 2 (8°) mimics Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Turn 3 (6°) echoes The Milwaukee Mile. This “Tricky Triangle” design creates unparalleled challenges, demanding versatile setups and strategic driving.
Financial turmoil nearly shuttered the track in 1973 until NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. intervened, leading to Pocono’s first Cup Series race in 1974. Repaves have addressed surface issues over the decades, including a notable 1978 repave of Turn 2 after driver complaints about bumpiness. Today, Pocono remains a cornerstone of NASCAR’s schedule, hosting events across multiple series with its enduringly unconventional layout.
Evolution of the MillerTech Battery 200
The MillerTech Battery 200 has undergone significant transformations since its 2010 inception. Initially a 125-mile race, it marked NASCAR Trucks’ return to Pennsylvania after a nine-year absence and expanded Pocono’s NASCAR presence beyond the Cup Series. Key developments include:
- Distance expansions: Extended to 150 miles (2014), 175 miles (2024), and now 200 miles (2025)
- Format innovations: The inaugural 2010 race featured simultaneous qualifying runs, a rarity in NASCAR
- Notable winners: Elliott Sadler (2010) became the 21st driver to win in all three national series here, while Kyle Busch holds the record with three victories (2015, 2018, 2023)
- Weather challenges: Multiple postponements occurred, including a 2011 rain delay forcing a Sunday finish and a 2020 morning rescheduling due to tight doubleheader logistics
MillerTech Battery became the entitlement sponsor in 2025, aligning with the race’s expansion to 200 miles. Toyota dominates with eight wins, while Kyle Busch Motorsports has claimed victory in seven of the last nine events.
Top Contenders for the 2025 MillerTech Battery 200
With the 2025 MillerTech Battery 200 set to feature a full field of 34 trucks, competition will be fierce. Based on recent performance, team strength, and track history, here are five drivers currently entered who are considered favorites for victory:
- Corey Heim (#11 Toyota – TRICON Garage): The defending winner at Pocono and current championship leader, Heim’s tactical precision and consistency make him a formidable contender.
- Rajah Caruth (#71 Chevrolet – Spire Motorsports): Caruth has shown steady improvement and already has a Truck Series win in 2025. His previous top-10 finish at Pocono highlights his potential.
- Ty Majeski (#98 Ford – ThorSport Racing): A perennial contender in the Truck Series, Majeski’s experience and ThorSport’s powerhouse resources give him a strong chance at Pocono.
- Patrick Emerling (#07 Chevrolet – Spire Motorsports): Known for his success in the Whelen Modified Tour, Emerling brings versatility and adaptability to the Tricky Triangle.
- Stewart Friesen (#52 Toyota – Halmar Friesen Racing): Friesen is a series veteran and recent winner at Michigan, carrying momentum and confidence into Pocono.
News in Brief: 5 Drivers Poised to Win Big at Pocono
The 2025 MillerTech Battery 200 at Pocono Raceway blends historical significance, unique track design, and a stronger-than-ever Truck Series field. From its roots as a 125-mile event to its evolution into a 200-mile showdown, the race has become a fan favorite. With contenders like Corey Heim, Rajah Caruth, and Stewart Friesen ready to battle on NASCAR’s most distinctive layout, this year’s race promises strategy, speed, and drama. As teams fine-tune for playoff runs, Pocono stands as a pivotal test.
