Mark Martin, a revered figure in NASCAR, recently voiced strong support for Corey Heim’s performance in the Corey Heim NASCAR Truck Series, describing it as deserving of a championship and criticizing the possibility that Heim could lose the title after such an exceptional season. Rallying behind Heim’s dominant campaign, Martin conveyed frustration that the season’s outcome could be determined by factors other than Heim’s track record, underscoring his passion for fair results in motorsports.
Corey Heim’s Historic Season Sets a New Standard in the Truck Series
Corey Heim has delivered a landmark run in the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 11 TRICON Garage Toyota. Through October 4, Heim racked up an impressive 3,122 points, clinching his spot in the Championship 4 thanks to a notable victory at the Charlotte Roval. With ten wins in a single season—a new milestone for the Truck Series—Heim’s campaign stands out for both consistency and dominance, solidified by his seven pole positions, sixteen top-five finishes, eighteen results in the top ten, and 1,436 laps led through twenty-one starts.
This year, Heim triumphed at major venues such as Daytona, Las Vegas, Texas, Charlotte, Lime Rock Park, Watkins Glen, Richmond, Darlington, and Charlotte again at the Roval. At the recent Roval event, his determination was on full display: after a crash on the opening lap, he weaved through the field, ultimately securing the win by taking the lead during a key caution period while competitors opted for a pit stop.
Pole Positions and Road Course Prowess Highlight Heim’s Talent
Heim’s success is also reflected in his ability to capture pole positions, with seven this season, including three achieved at challenging road courses. His adaptability and performance on different track types further distinguish him as one of the top competitors in the series.
Mark Martin’s Public Endorsement and Thoughts on Championship Format
Mark Martin, whose own storied career includes 40 NASCAR Cup Series wins and five seasons as championship runner-up, took to social media to champion Heim’s cause and question the playoff system’s fairness:
“If these guys don’t win the Championship it will be a total crime. All for the sake of entertainment. @NASCAR_Trucks”
— Mark Martin, NASCAR Legend
Martin’s advocacy comes from a place of personal experience, as he is often referred to as one of the greatest drivers never to have secured a Cup championship, solidifying his unique perspective on the significance of a season’s worth of effort.
Mark Martin Looks Back at Ernie Irvan’s Resilience in Racing
Alongside his commentary on current drivers, Martin has recently reflected on figures who have shaped NASCAR’s spirit of resilience, such as Ernie Irvan. Irvan’s career was marked by an extraordinary comeback after a devastating crash in 1994 that resulted in severe injuries. In October 1995, Irvan defied the odds by returning to compete at North Wilkesboro Speedway, an event that Martin himself won, but which symbolized Irvan’s unbreakable spirit.
Martin again turned to social media to pay tribute:
“One of the baddest MoFos I ever raced against. I can only imagine what he would have accomplished if his career hadn’t been cut short.”
— Mark Martin, NASCAR Legend
This acknowledgment from Martin underscores the mutual respect shared among competitors, as well as the difficulties and dangers that drivers face throughout their careers.
Martin’s Legacy and the Ongoing Narrative of NASCAR Competition
Mark Martin’s racing resume includes more than just Cup victories; he is also remembered for capturing five IROC titles and gathering 96 wins across NASCAR’s top-three divisions. His dedication and achievements culminated in his 2017 induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, reinforcing his role as a voice of authority and respect in the racing community.
With Heim’s 2025 campaign entering its decisive stages, the conversation around points systems and championship formats grows louder. Martin’s passionate public stance highlights the ongoing debate over whether performance throughout a season should weigh more heavily than single-race outcomes in determining champions. For Corey Heim, the 2025 season has already secured its place in the Series’ history books, regardless of the title outcome, but Martin’s words emphasize that acknowledgment from legends adds significant weight to any driver’s journey.
The NASCAR community, including fans and former drivers like Mark Martin, continues to watch closely as the Truck Series season draws to a close, with the hope that the system will reward sustained excellence. Corey Heim’s name now stands alongside those who have delivered truly standout campaigns in the sport, ensuring his efforts won’t be forgotten even as debates over championship justice persist.
If these guys don’t win the Championship it will be a total crime. All for the sake of entertainment. @NASCAR_Trucks https://t.co/TPniAvMcFK
— Mark Martin (@markmartin) October 4, 2025
One of the baddest MoFos I ever raced against. I can only imagine what he would have accomplished if his career hadn’t been cut short. https://t.co/ECpuRmFgta
— Mark Martin (@markmartin) October 1, 2025
