Layne Riggs dominates IRP race to claim his second win of the 2025 season, leading 160 out of 200 laps on July 25 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. This commanding performance not only stunned his competition but also injected fresh drama into the ongoing NASCAR Truck Series playoffs.
Riggs Claims a Decisive Victory at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
Typically, when Corey Heim gets ahead in a NASCAR Truck Series race, his rivals find it almost impossible to catch him. However, at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, it was Layne Riggs turning the tables, as he took command of the race early and never looked back. Riggs, hailing from North Carolina, showcased unbeatable speed in the No. 34 truck, staying ahead of the field for the majority of the night and winning both race stages. In a season where Heim’s dominance was virtually unchallenged, Riggs’ 160 laps at the front set a new tone in the series.
While Riggs took the top spot, Corey Heim still managed to clinch pole position and the fastest lap of 23.338 seconds, continuing to display his own formidable pace. In an impressive drive from the back, Corey Day started 16th but powered through the field to finish in second place, earning recognition as the race‘s biggest mover. This event featured numerous compelling stories among the contenders, reflecting the depth of competition in the Truck Series this year.
Standout Performers and Key Results from the IRP Race
The spotlight unquestionably belonged to Riggs, who swept the event by leading the most laps and securing the win. Corey Heim, despite finishing third, added to his season achievements and maintained his reputation for qualifying strength and quick lap times. Corey Day’s rise from 16th to second highlighted both his skill and the unpredictable nature of short-track racing.
Other notable drivers included Grant Enfinger and Ty Majeski, both delivering solid performances that kept their playoff ambitions alive. Ross Chastain finished ninth, while Brenden Queen crossed the line in seventeenth, both working through eventful races in Brownsburg. Rookie drivers also made their mark, with Brenden Queen taking top rookie honors in his debut start for Spire Motorsports by finishing sixteenth—besting other newcomers in the field.
The Evolving Truck Series Playoff Picture
With his third-place finish, Corey Heim officially locked up the regular season championship, earning a valuable 15-point bonus entering the postseason. His dominance throughout the year keeps him as the favorite, though Riggs’ recent win suggests brewing competition. As the playoffs approach, three spots remain open by points, with Grant Enfinger currently holding a slender 16-point margin over Kaden Honeycutt for the final postseason berth.
Ty Majeski sits on the cut line, boasting a robust 61-point lead over teammate Jake Garcia—equivalent to a full race’s points—making it unlikely, barring unexpected results, that the primary field will change before the end of the regular season. The tension among drivers vying for the last playoff spots adds extra intrigue to each event as the cutoff nears.
Rookie Highlights and Emerging Talent
Younger drivers continued to distinguish themselves during the IRP weekend. Brenden Queen, driving the No. 07 for Spire Motorsports, ended up sixteenth—an encouraging debut that earned him Rookie of the Race honors. The rookie field was crowded, featuring names such as Brent Crews, Jayson Alexander, Cody Dennison, Toni Breidinger, Gio Ruggiero, AJ Waller, Dawson Sutton, Frankie Muniz, Greg Van Alst, Boston Oliver, Andres Perez, and Connor Mosack, reflecting the depth and diversity among rising talent this season.
Each rookie’s placement is watched closely as they compete not just for strong finishes but also for the coveted Rookie of the Year title. Their performances throughout the campaign continue to shape the future landscape of the Truck Series.
Drivers Reflect on a Demanding Night at IRP
Following the checkered flag, several key drivers spoke about their experiences and the race’s significance. Corey Day celebrated not only a personal-best result but the challenges overcome from deep in the starting grid. Corey Heim, after taking third and wrapping up the regular-season title, commented on his mindset and focus for the playoffs. Grant Enfinger and Ty Majeski, finishing fourth and fifth respectively, offered insights into their strategies as the postseason looms.
Ross Chastain, who ended the night in ninth, and Brenden Queen, finishing seventeenth, provided accounts of the unpredictability and intensity typical of short-track NASCAR racing. Andres Perez, despite swirling rumors about his future, affirmed his commitment to continue driving the No. 77, bringing reassurance amid off-track speculation. Stewart Friesen, who initially finished third before a post-race disqualification, also shared thoughts on his eventful result.
A Paint Scheme Honoring More Than Racing
Beyond on-track action, one of the most talked-about moments at IRP involved the striking new look of Tanner Gray’s No. 15 truck. Departing from its traditional designs, the vehicle appeared in a vivid color scheme in tribute to Larry Pettet, a dedicated supporter of TRICON Garage and cancer survivor. Pettet, who has been a steadfast ally of the team since its DGR-Crosley days, was honored as his name adorned the truck at Martinsville Speedway, and was further celebrated with his business featured prominently on Gray’s Ford at IRP—his home track.
Some things are bigger than racing. As our friend Larry Pettet continues his battle with cancer, @tannergray5 and the No. 15 team had a special surprise in store for him at IRP ❤️ pic.twitter.com/iwt2bu7yiR— TRICON (@TRICONGarage) July 12, 2025
This gesture went beyond aesthetics, serving as a meaningful show of support for Pettet’s ongoing fight against cancer and shining a light on the team’s camaraderie and community spirit. The combination of a bold new livery and an inspiring backstory made it a fan favorite and a clear standout among the field.
NASCAR Truck Series Heads to Watkins Glen Next
With just two regular-season events remaining, the Truck Series will pause briefly before traveling to Watkins Glen International in the Finger Lakes. This marks only the second visit to the historic road course since 2000, with the last race there occurring in 2021—won by Austin Hill in a rain-shortened contest. The highly anticipated return brings new challenges for teams and could impact ongoing playoff battles.
The United Rentals 176 at Watkins Glen is set for Friday, August 8, as part of a doubleheader program that also includes the ARCA Menards Series. Fans can catch the race action at 5 p.m. ET on FOX Sports 1, while radio listeners can tune in to the NASCAR Racing Network for exclusive coverage.
Layne Riggs’ commanding performance at IRP reenergizes the playoff race and alters expectations as the Truck Series moves into its critical late-season stretch. With emerging talent eager to make their mark and storylines unfolding on and off the track, fans can look forward to more unpredictable action as the chase for the championship continues.
