The NASCAR Truck Series returns to Watkins Glen International this weekend for its 16th race of the 2025 season. This marks the first time the series has raced at the track since 2021, adding intrigue to the lone annual stop in upstate New York. With the qualifying format set, every driver will have just one timed session to secure their starting spot for the Mission 176 at The Glen. In a field this competitive, precision will be everything.
Key Highlights
First Truck Series race at Watkins Glen since 2021.
Event marks the 16th race of the 2025 Truck Series season.
One round of timed qualifying for each group, no final round.
Groups and order determined by NASCAR’s metric system.
Mission 176 at The Glen set for race weekend in August 2025.
Format and Stakes at Watkins Glen
The qualifying session will be split into Groups A and B, with each group getting a set amount of time on the 2.45-mile road course. NASCAR’s decision to run only one round for each group means a single lap could determine a driver’s grid position. That format rewards quick adaptation, as the unique corners and elevation changes at The Glen can test even the most seasoned drivers. It also adds pressure—there will be no second chance to improve.
Group A Field Breakdown
Group A will see Brent Crews lead the order, joined by Wesley Slimp, Derek White, and Timmy Hill. Notables include Parker Kligerman, Christopher Bell, and former actor-turned-racer Frankie Muniz. Toni Breidinger, Andres Perez de Lara, and rising star William Sawalich also take part, each aiming to convert road course skill into a favorable starting spot. With a diverse mix of veterans, full-time contenders, and younger drivers, the pace in Group A could set the tone for the weekend.
Group B Brings Heavy Hitters
Group B features some of the series’ most recognizable names, including Matt Crafton, Kyle Busch, Ross Chastain, and Ben Rhodes. Ty Majeski, Chandler Smith, and Grant Enfinger add to the depth of competition. Road course threats like Rajah Caruth and Corey Heim also join the lineup, while Layne Riggs rounds out the group. The blend of championship contenders and road course specialists creates a scenario where even mid-pack qualifying could come with a razor-thin time gap.
Full Qualifying Order for Watkins Glen
Group A – Qualifying Order
| Order | Car No. | Driver |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 70 | Brent Crews |
| 2 | 62 | Wesley Slimp |
| 3 | 69 | Derek White |
| 4 | 56 | Timmy Hill |
| 5 | 75 | Parker Kligerman |
| 6 | 2 | William Lambros |
| 7 | 22 | Gian Buffomante |
| 8 | 02 | Kaden Honeycutt |
| 9 | 52 | Christopher Bell |
| 10 | 33 | Frankie Muniz |
| 11 | 5 | Toni Breidinger |
| 12 | 76 | Spencer Boyd |
| 13 | 1 | William Sawalich |
| 14 | 77 | Andres Perez de Lara |
| 15 | 42 | Matt Mills |
| 16 | 17 | Gio Ruggiero |
| 17 | 91 | Jack Wood |
| 18 | 26 | Dawson Sutton |
Group B – Qualifying Order
| Order | Car No. | Driver |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 88 | Matt Crafton |
| 2 | 81 | Connor Mosack |
| 3 | 07 | Kyle Busch |
| 4 | 66 | Chris Buescher |
| 5 | 15 | Tanner Gray |
| 6 | 13 | Jake Garcia |
| 7 | 45 | Connor Zilisch |
| 8 | 44 | Ross Chastain |
| 9 | 99 | Ben Rhodes |
| 10 | 71 | Rajah Caruth |
| 11 | 18 | Tyler Ankrum |
| 12 | 19 | Daniel Hemric |
| 13 | 98 | Ty Majeski |
| 14 | 38 | Chandler Smith |
| 15 | 9 | Grant Enfinger |
| 16 | 7 | Sammy Smith |
| 17 | 11 | Corey Heim |
| 18 | 34 | Layne Riggs |
News in Brief: Qualifying Order Set for 2025 Mission 176
The NASCAR Truck Series heads to Watkins Glen International for the first time since 2021, staging the 16th race of its 2025 season. Qualifying will feature one timed round for each of two groups, with positions set solely by the fastest lap. NASCAR’s metric system determined the group assignments. The Mission 176 at The Glen will bring together veterans, rising stars, and road course specialists in a single high-stakes weekend. Watch qualifying to see who earns the best shot at victory in Saturday’s race.
ALSO READ: How to Watch Every NASCAR Race at Watkins Glen – Cup, Xfinity, and Trucks
