Greg Van Alst is preparing for something new. The 43-year-old veteran driver will take on a fresh challenge this month, and it’s not just behind the wheel. Backed by years of short-track grit and a close circle of familiar names, Greg Van Alst Motorsports is about to change lanes in a bold way. The team’s first event is only weeks away, but there’s more to this story than just another part-time NASCAR debut.
Key Highlights
- Greg Van Alst Motorsports will debut in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series on July 25 at Lucas Oil Raceway
- The team will compete in four races during the 2025 season with the No. 35 Toyota Tundra
- Top Choice Fence will sponsor the debut, with more partners actively being pursued
- Crew chief Kevin Shannon reunites with Van Alst from their ARCA championship days
- Van Alst aims to build a long-term, competitive presence with realistic short-term goals
A Dream Begins at Home
Greg Van Alst Motorsports will make its NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut at a track that feels like home. The Anderson, Indiana–based team has circled July 25 as its launch date, with the race taking place at Lucas Oil Raceway near Indianapolis. Greg Van Alst will drive the No. 35 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in four events this year, with sights set on building a fuller program for 2026.
“This has been in the works for the last couple of months. Starting a Truck Series program has been an eventual goal of mine for a long time, and to finally see it coming together — especially at a place like Lucas Oil Raceway, where I’ve turned so many laps — is incredibly special.” – Greg Van Alst
Following the team’s debut, additional starts are scheduled at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 11, Talladega Superspeedway on October 17, and Martinsville Speedway on October 24. The four races were carefully selected to match Van Alst’s background, giving him the chance to build performance with each round.
Familiar Faces and Fresh Ambitions
While the team may be new, some of its most important pieces come with proven results. Van Alst is reuniting with longtime crew chief Kevin Shannon, who led him to a CRA | ARCA championship. Their partnership brings continuity and trust to a project that requires both.
“Having Kevin back on top of the box means a lot to me. We’ve had a lot of success together over the years, and there’s a level of trust and communication between us that you just can’t manufacture.” – Greg Van Alst
The team’s debut will be backed by Top Choice Fence, Van Alst’s own company. While additional sponsors are being sought, the team is already laying the foundation for long-term stability. Van Alst emphasized the importance of learning, improving, and focusing on the future over chasing immediate glory.
“We’re not coming into this expecting to set the world on fire right away. We’ve set some realistic goals for this season and know the key is gaining experience and improving each time we hit the track.” – Greg Van Alst
From Setbacks to a Reset
Greg Van Alst is no stranger to NASCAR’s national scene. In 2023, he ran five NASCAR Truck Series races for Young’s Motorsports before a back injury ended his year prematurely. Earlier in 2025, Van Alst also competed part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Joey Gase Motorsports, completing eight starts before stepping away to refocus.
Now, with his own team and a schedule he controls, Van Alst is aiming for growth at a manageable pace. He intends to return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series later this year, though details for his next start are still to be announced.
“We know there’s a lot of work ahead, but we’re committed to building something competitive and sustainable. We’re excited to take this next step with Top Choice Fence, and hopefully, more partners join us along the way.” – Greg Van Alst
The No. 35 team’s goals extend beyond the four races in 2025. The plan is to take what’s learned on the track and build toward a broader schedule in 2026 and beyond.
News in Brief: NASCAR Veteran Prepares for New Beginning
Greg Van Alst Motorsports will launch a part-time NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team beginning July 25, 2025, at Lucas Oil Raceway. Van Alst will drive the No. 35 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in four races this season, backed by Top Choice Fence. Reuniting with crew chief Kevin Shannon, the team aims to use the 2025 campaign as a building block toward a full-time effort in 2026. Van Alst has previously raced in the ARCA, Xfinity, and Truck Series.
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