NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series standout Corey Heim has addressed recent speculation surrounding his future manufacturer, clarifying his commitment to Toyota amid the buzz around RAM’s upcoming series entry. This comes as conversations escalate about the Corey Heim preferred manufacturer after a segment on the Pat McAfee show brought the topic into focus.
Corey Heim Dismisses Manufacturer Switch Rumors Addressed by Pat McAfee
Corey Heim, who continues to set the pace in the NASCAR Truck Series, responded directly to speculation about a potential switch from Toyota following a highlighted segment from host Pat McAfee. Despite RAM revealing plans to join the Truck Series in 2026, Heim firmly shut down any suggestion that he might leave Toyota or Tricon Garage, his current team. The discussion heated up after McAfee mentioned the prospect, but Heim quickly responded on social media, reinforcing his allegiance to his current manufacturer.
“More of a @Toyota Tundra guy, but appreciate the love @PatMcAfeeShow”
— Corey Heim, Truck Series Driver
Heim’s track record supports his loyalty. Since making his series debut with Kyle Busch Motorsports and capturing a full-time seat at Tricon Garage in 2023, he has celebrated numerous wins with Toyota. Over 66 races in the #11 Toyota Tundra, he has clinched 18 victories, achieved 41 top-five finishes, and has crossed into the top ten 54 times. His consistency also includes leading 2,729 laps, posting an average finish of 6.6, and qualifying with an average starting position of 7.1.
RAM and Kaulig Racing to Join Forces in 2026 NASCAR Truck Series
While Heim confirmed his intention to remain with Toyota, RAM officially announced its return to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starting with the 2026 season. The manufacturer will partner with Kaulig Racing, creating a historic arrangement: Kaulig Racing will become the only team fielding trucks for two different original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in NASCAR’s modern era. The move adds potential intrigue to the series and could influence driver and team alliances in the coming seasons.
Heim Reflects on His Prospects and Sets Sights on the Cup Series
Pursuing further milestones, Corey Heim has made significant strides both on and off the track this season. The 23-year-old, already with over 15 career wins and recognized as the youngest driver to do so, spoke candidly about his ambitions to compete in NASCAR’s Cup Series. While some discussions continue about when he might graduate to the highest tier, Heim is taking a measured approach with his career.
“I definitely feel like I’m ready to make Cup starts—I don’t know if I’m ready to be a full-time Cup driver; that is what I’m learning as I go. I certainly feel like I am, but it is going out and proving that.”
— Corey Heim, via Sports Illustrated
“I’m really happy with the opportunities that Toyota and 23XI have given me the past couple of years. I’m very happy with my 11 crew on the Truck side, and the 67 guys on the Cup side. I think I have a lot of things going for me in the right direction, and I’m very happy with my opportunities,”
he added. — Corey Heim
This season, Heim continues to lead the Truck Series points with 3,079, amassing nine wins, 17 top-ten finishes, 15 top fives, and securing six pole positions over 21 starts. As he prepares for his next challenge—the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Playoff Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course on October 3, 2025—Heim remains a dominant figure and key contender in the race for the championship.
Implications of Heim’s Commitment and OEM Shifts in the Truck Series
Corey Heim’s clear statement about his preferred manufacturer solidifies Toyota’s current strength in the Truck Series and reassures his team at Tricon Garage ahead of future competitive shifts. With RAM gearing up to join the action through its partnership with Kaulig Racing, the NASCAR landscape anticipates renewed rivalries and possible changes in the driver lineup. Fans and industry figures alike will be watching closely as the series approaches the playoffs and evolves with new manufacturer dynamics in the coming seasons.
More of a @Toyota Tundra guy, but appreciate the love @PatMcAfeeShow 🤝 pic.twitter.com/tbW0xHPol9
— Corey Heim (@CoreyHeim_) September 25, 2025
