The dispute over Martin Truex Jr.’s missing trophies intensified Thursday night when Race Day Authentics released a statement defending its role in the unfolding controversy. The Cherryville, N.C.–based company explained how it obtained the memorabilia and outlined efforts to return the items. This latest development follows Truex’s revelation that personal trophies and mementos were listed for sale without his consent, creating a storm that now involves former associates and the respected memorabilia dealer.
Key Highlights
- Race Day Authentics said it bought the items from a longtime Truex associate believing they were gifts.
- The company claims it was misled and is planning to return the memorabilia to Truex.
- Items included Truex’s 2017 and 2023 Cup Series regular season championship trophies.
- The 2023 trophy was listed online for nearly $2,750 before the dispute surfaced.
- Truex retired after the 2024 season with 34 career wins and a 2017 Cup championship.
Race Day Authentics Responds
Race Day Authentics, a well-known NASCAR memorabilia outlet, said it purchased the disputed items Tuesday from someone who had worked alongside Truex for a decade. According to the company, the seller claimed the trophies and gifts were his to sell while clearing out his house. After learning of Truex’s concerns, the company quickly issued a statement emphasizing its good faith.
“As all of our customers and teams we deal with know, we are not the type of people to go out and damage our reputation over something like this. We were lied to by the person we bought them from, and we appreciate everybody being understanding with this matter.” – Race Day Authentics
Truex’s Reaction and Treasured Items
Truex, a 2017 NASCAR Cup Series champion, responded firmly on Instagram after the listings were discovered Wednesday. He said the trophies and memorabilia were sold without his knowledge, underscoring their deep personal value.
“It’s been brought to my attention some of my trophies were for sale online.”
“These items were sold without my knowledge. Every one of these items holds a special significance to me.” – Martin Truex Jr.
Among the pieces offered for sale were his final win trophy from New Hampshire Motor Speedway, a retirement gift from Toyota TRD, a NASCAR 75 Greatest Drivers watch and shirt, and his 2017 and 2023 Cup Series regular season championship trophies. The 2023 trophy carried an asking price of nearly $2,750.
Career Legacy and Context
Truex, 45, ended his full-time Cup career after the 2024 season, leaving a decorated record of 34 career victories over 19 seasons. His defining moment came in 2017 when he captured the Cup Series championship driving the No. 78 Toyota for Furniture Row Racing. Known for his consistency and poise, Truex’s career highlights include two Coca-Cola 600 wins and a Southern 500 triumph. The sudden emergence of his personal trophies on the resale market added an unexpected chapter to the postscript of his remarkable career.
Moving Toward Resolution
Race Day Authentics emphasized that it is working on a plan to ensure the memorabilia returns to Truex. The company expressed gratitude to customers for their support and reiterated its commitment to transparency.
“Thank you to all of our customers who continue to support us through everything, and we hope to continue to bring you some more exciting stuff soon!” – Race Day Authentics
The situation now hinges on cooperation between the memorabilia company, the unidentified former associate, and Truex to return the items and close an episode that surprised the NASCAR community.
News in Brief: Martin Truex Jr. Trophy Buyer Breaks Silence After NASCAR Legend’s Claim
Race Day Authentics stated it unknowingly bought Martin Truex Jr.’s trophies from a former associate who falsely claimed ownership. Truex revealed the items, including his 2017 and 2023 regular season championship trophies, were listed online without his knowledge, with one priced near $2,750. The memorabilia company says it will return the items and maintain its reputation for integrity. Truex retired after the 2024 season with 34 Cup wins and a 2017 title.
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