Martin Truex Jr. recently opened up about the side of his NASCAR career that fans have often overlooked, providing unique insight into his life both on and off the track. Known for his achievements in the sport, Truex Jr.’s journey in the world of stock car racing remains a focal point for many NASCAR enthusiasts.
Dispelling Misconceptions About Truex Jr.’s Track Personality
During a 2010 interview with Jeff Gluck as part of the “12 Out Of 12” series, Martin Truex Jr., then a driver for Michael Waltrip Racing’s No. 56 car, addressed how people perceived his demeanor while racing. Although many saw Truex Jr. as intensely serious when competing, he spoke about how his experience was much more vibrant than most realized.
“I think people think I’m really, really serious. Because I hear that a lot, like, ‘You’re so serious.’ And I’m like, ‘Well, you know, I’m doing my job.’ But I really have a lot of fun,”
Martin Truex Jr. told Gluck.
“I really enjoy what I’m doing. The last few years have been kind of up and down for me, but I’ve really still enjoyed doing what I do and I still really love it. And I think people don’t really get that sometimes.”
– Martin Truex Jr., NASCAR Champion
Over the course of 17 full seasons and two additional part-time campaigns, Truex Jr. participated in 693 races and posted 34 Cup Series wins. The highlight of his Martin Truex Jr. NASCAR career remains the 2017 NASCAR Cup Series championship, complemented by back-to-back Xfinity Series titles, which is now recognized as the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
Branching Out Beyond NASCAR: Truex Jr.’s Aviation Endeavor
Demonstrating entrepreneurial ambitions outside racing, Martin Truex Jr. established a private aviation company offering specialized charter services for medical flights. His decision was influenced by regular travel to events over the years, leading him to create a business tailored to the unique needs of professional drivers and beyond.
“I decided to launch a private aviation charter company because of our experience flying to NASCAR races every weekend over the last decade or so,”
Martin Truex Jr. said of the venture.
“MTJ Aviation offers a refreshing alternative because there are no fractional ownerships or long-term contracts, we simply fly you from point A to point B safely at a reasonable cost.”
– Martin Truex Jr., Owner of MTJ Aviation
This business move highlighted Truex Jr.’s ability to apply knowledge from racing logistics into a new direction, expanding his professional footprint outside the competitive world of NASCAR.
Retirement, Return Races, and a Life Embracing the Outdoors
After completing his final full-time NASCAR season in 2024, Truex Jr. stepped away from the regular racing grind. Nonetheless, he has continued to participate in select races, including an appearance at the 2025 Daytona 500 with Tricon Garage, underscoring his enduring passion for the sport. Beyond the track, Truex Jr.’s interests and way of life in retirement have garnered the attention of other notable figures in the racing community.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Shares Insights on Truex Jr.’s Current Pursuits
NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. recently discussed Martin Truex Jr.’s hobbies following his step back from full-time racing. According to Dale Jr., the champion driver has found joy in recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and even racing radio-controlled boats.
“Truex is doing great. Truex is doing great,”
Dale Earnhardt Jr. said on the Dale Jr. Download.
“I’d be lying if I knew where he was, where he’s been spending his time. He’s in a great … He’s in a great relationship that’s going really well, I’m aware of.”
– Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
“And he’s spending a lot more time up in Jersey, I believe, that, you know, he put his place in North Carolina on the market,”
Dale Jr. continued.
“I don’t know if it’s sold or not. So he’s got a place in Florida and a place up in Jersey and he’s happy and he’s running around doing tons of hunting right now. Races boats, RC boats.”
– Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
These comments highlight how the New Jersey native, once celebrated for his calculated approach on the track, is embracing a more leisurely and adventurous lifestyle. Now residing partly in New Jersey and Florida, with ties to North Carolina, his time is filled with personal enjoyment and exploration.
Looking Ahead: Truex Jr. and NASCAR’s Ongoing Narrative
The next major event for NASCAR fans, the 68th running of the Daytona 500, is set for February 15, 2026. As legends like Martin Truex Jr. transition into new life chapters, they continue to inspire fans and shape the sport’s future outlook. Truex Jr.’s continued involvement, whether as a competitor in select races or as an entrepreneur, underscores his lasting influence on fans, aspiring drivers, and the racing world alike. The legacy of his Martin Truex Jr. NASCAR career remains a touchstone for passion and adaptability in a fast-changing sports landscape.
