Todd Gilliland and the No. 34 team from Front Row Motorsports return to the Daytona International Speedway, facing a high-stakes situation as a victory is needed to secure a NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs spot. This Front Row Motorsports Daytona race preview highlights a pivotal moment for Gilliland, who brings both racing skill and new partnerships to the track.
Gilliland Returns to Daytona Seeking a Critical Win
At last year’s Daytona event, Todd Gilliland started on the front row alongside teammate Michael McDowell at the famed 2.5-mile superspeedway, underlining his capability on these fast tracks. Gilliland has consistently proven himself as a reliable drafting partner, delivering strong runs at not only Daytona but also at Atlanta and Talladega. The need for a win this weekend puts extra pressure on the No. 34 team, underscoring the importance of strategy and clean execution throughout the 160-lap challenge.
Grillo’s Pickles Adds Excitement as Proud Partner
For this critical Daytona race, Grillo’s Pickles joins the No. 34 team in their third partnership race of the year. The iconic pickle company brings a playful touch to Gilliland’s Ford Mustang Dark Horse, featuring a unique paint scheme with hidden “Speed Pickles.” Fans at the event and watching from afar will spot the Grillo’s Pickles branding and can check out their products and merchandise while supporting the team.
Connecting Racing and Conservation
Beyond the race, Gilliland will team up with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s TrophyCatch initiative this weekend. Noted for his passion for fishing, Gilliland encourages anglers to join TrophyCatch, a citizen-science program that rewards fishermen for recording largemouth bass weighing eight pounds or more. Since its start, the initiative has helped document thousands of trophy bass, providing scientists with vital insights into Florida’s bass population and helping ensure healthy fisheries for future generations.
“TrophyCatch is all about celebrating the thrill of a big catch while protecting our fisheries for future generations,”
said Gilliland. —Todd Gilliland, Driver
“It’s like racing—big skill, big passion, and all about the thrill.”
—Todd Gilliland, Driver
Participants can sign up for TrophyCatch for free, obtain a fishing license, and submit evidence of their notable catches for a chance to win prizes ranging from top-tier fishing equipment to even a Phoenix Bass Boat.
FWC Joins NASCAR to Boost Conservation Awareness
The partnership goes beyond individual participation, reaching a wide audience through NASCAR’s popularity. Roger Young, Executive Director of the FWC, shared his excitement about working with NASCAR and using the platform to spotlight Florida’s world-class fisheries and the importance of conservation.
“We’re proud to partner with NASCAR and bring Florida’s conservation story to one of the largest audiences in American sports,”
said Roger Young, Executive Director, FWC. —Roger Young, Executive Director, FWC
“This collaboration is an exciting opportunity to connect with outdoor enthusiasts and highlight the importance of protecting our state’s world-class fisheries and wildlife.”
—Roger Young, Executive Director, FWC
Gilliland Focused on Delivering for the Team
Todd Gilliland acknowledged the challenges the team has endured this season. Despite setbacks, he remains optimistic and determined to seize this opportunity at Daytona, emphasizing teamwork and execution as key elements in achieving success this weekend.
“Our season hasn’t gone the way we hoped,”
said Gilliland. —Todd Gilliland, Driver
“We know what’s at stake, and I believe this team has everything it takes to win—it’s just about executing from start to finish and making the most of our potential. I always feel confident going into the superspeedways; we just need to run a clean race and be in position at the end.”
—Todd Gilliland, Driver
Looking Ahead to the Daytona Race
Front Row Motorsports approaches the Daytona International Speedway event with determination, community engagement, and strong partnerships, aiming not only for a playoff berth but also to promote conservation efforts in Florida. As Gilliland and his team prepare for the demanding superspeedway laps, fans and enthusiasts will be watching closely to see if the No. 34 car can claim the crucial victory needed to advance.
