Matt Crafton’s time in NASCAR’s Craftsman Truck Series is nearing its close. The three-time champion will step away from full-time competition after the 2025 season, ending a career that has stretched across parts of four decades. Known for his unmatched consistency and longevity, Crafton’s announcement triggered strong reactions from fans who see his retirement as the close of an era. As he completes his 25th full-time season, attention also turns to the driver who will inherit the famed No. 88 truck.
Key Highlights
Matt Crafton will retire from full-time racing after the 2025 Truck Series season
Crafton is a three-time series champion, winning titles in 2013, 2014, and 2019
His career spans 25 full-time seasons with 15 wins and 331 top-10 finishes in 585 starts
Ty Majeski will take over the No. 88 ThorSport Racing Ford beginning in 2026
Fans recall Crafton’s unique career of consistency, longevity, and connection to NASCAR’s past eras
A Career Defined by Consistency and Longevity
Crafton’s retirement closes the book on one of NASCAR’s most reliable careers. Since his debut in 2000, Crafton has made 585 starts, tallying 15 wins, 135 top fives, and 331 top 10s. His mark of finishing inside the top 10 in the standings for 17 straight years from 2007 through 2023 remains unmatched in the Truck Series. Crafton also holds the distinction of being the only driver to win consecutive championships in the series, capturing titles in 2013 and 2014 before adding a third crown in 2019. Fans immediately noted how his consistency set him apart from others.
“He turned consistency into an art form. Three titles, two in the full-season era, and he averaged just one win per championship season. That’s Crafton.” – Fan reaction
“His 2013 season was insane — he didn’t finish outside the top 10 until late September. Pure consistency.” – Fan reaction
The End of an Era
For many, Crafton’s retirement represents more than just one driver stepping aside. He is viewed as a connection to NASCAR’s past, having competed during Dale Earnhardt’s final year in the sport. His longevity has spanned eras in which entire generations of drivers have come and gone. The response from fans reflected that sense of history.
“If I’m not mistaken, he’s the last national series driver who was already racing when Dale Sr. made his final start. Truly the end of an era.” – Fan reaction
“Funny how Dale’s death is kind of like NASCAR’s version of BC and AD — everything feels divided into before and after.” – Fan reaction
“We’ve got drivers in Cup now who weren’t even alive to see a single fatality in NASCAR’s top three series. That’s wild.” – Fan reaction
Crafton’s durability was also highlighted by his uninterrupted 25-year full-time run, a streak that few in the sport have ever matched.
“He made it 25 years full time. That kind of career longevity is rare in this sport.” – Fan reaction
ThorSport’s Future with Ty Majeski
ThorSport Racing also used the announcement to set its direction for the future. Ty Majeski, Crafton’s current teammate and the reigning series champion, will assume driving duties for the No. 88 Ford in 2026. Majeski has already established himself with six victories and more than 1,500 laps led since 2022, and his familiarity with the organization makes him a natural successor.
“I am honored to take over the No. 88 Menards truck for ThorSport Racing in 2026. In 2021, Duke, Rhonda, and Allison Thorson took a big chance on me when my NASCAR career could’ve been over. I am so thankful for their support and this opportunity.”
“The 88 Menards truck has been a staple in the NASCAR Truck Series for many years with Matt Crafton. Their partnership, together, yielded many wins with 3 championships and my goal is to continue the legendary legacy they have already built.” – Ty Majeski
The announcement means that the Menards colors, long associated with Crafton, will remain on the No. 88 in the next era of ThorSport Racing.
News in Brief: Fan React to Matt Crafton’s Retirement
Matt Crafton will retire from full-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series competition after the 2025 season, closing a 25-year career featuring 585 starts, 15 wins, and three championships. His enduring consistency and connection to NASCAR’s past made him a fan favorite, and his exit marks the end of an era. ThorSport Racing announced Ty Majeski will take over the iconic No. 88 Menards Ford beginning in 2026. Fans reflected on Crafton’s legacy with tributes to his longevity, consistency, and historical significance. Celebrate Crafton’s career by following his final 2025 season closely.
ALSO READ: Matt Crafton Opens Up About His Crew Chief Gap Affecting the NASCAR Season
