John Hunter Nemechek is set to compete in the upcoming NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway, driving Halmar Friesen Racing’s (HFR) newly fielded second truck. This development not only marks Nemechek’s return to the Truck Series but also highlights HFR’s strategic expansion and the growing anticipation surrounding John Hunter Nemechek Daytona racing.
Nemechek to Pilot Second HFR Truck at Daytona
On Tuesday, January 27, Halmar Friesen Racing officially announced that Nemechek will race the No. 62 Toyota truck at Daytona, with primary sponsorship from DriveValue.com. This outing will serve as the No. 62’s debut in a season where HFR revealed plans for the truck to run full-time beginning in 2026. Nemechek, a 13-time Truck Series winner, partners with Stewart Friesen, who is making his return after a difficult injury.
Friesen, known for piloting the No. 52 truck, suffered a severe crash during the Super DIRTcar Series in July, which left him with an open-book pelvic fracture and a broken right leg. The injuries had sidelined him for the rest of the 2025 season. As he prepares for his comeback, both he and Nemechek aim for a triumphant showing in one of NASCAR’s most iconic races.
Nemechek Expresses Anticipation and Gratitude
Nemechek shared his excitement about joining the HFR lineup, particularly for the Daytona event. In his statement from the official team release, he said:
“I’m really excited to get back behind the wheel in the Truck Series, especially at a place like Daytona,”
— John Hunter Nemechek, Driver
“I’m extremely grateful to Halmar Friesen Racing and Stewart [Friesen] for the opportunity to drive the No. 62 Toyota. Daytona is such a special track, and any time you get the chance to compete there, it means a lot. I’m looking forward to making the most of this opportunity and having a strong run with the support of HFR and DriveValue.com.”
— John Hunter Nemechek, Driver
The opportunity to compete at Daytona stands as a significant moment for Nemechek, who has built a reputation for racing excellence across NASCAR’s top series.
HFR’s Expansion and Team Dynamics for 2026
Stewart Friesen also commented on Nemechek’s involvement and the team’s development as HFR moves toward operating as a two-truck entry. Friesen emphasized the enthusiasm within the organization and confidence in Nemechek’s experience. He noted:
“I speak for everyone at HFR by saying how pumped we are to have John Hunter kick off our first season as a full-time two-truck team at Daytona,”
— Stewart Friesen, Driver
“His track record and experience speaks for itself, and we all know he will do a great job competing for a win in the biggest race of the year. We also welcome the DriveValue.com team to the Craftsman Truck Series and are thankful for their support of John Hunter at the World Center of Racing.”
— Stewart Friesen, Driver
The confirmation from HFR follows prolonged speculation about a second full-time truck. Crew chief Jimmy Villeneuve indicated late in the 2025 season that
“plan is to go to two full-time trucks next year,”
hinting at the team’s future direction. The recent press release now affirms these intentions, solidifying HFR’s ambitions in the coming season.
Recent History of the No. 62 Truck
In 2026, HFR’s No. 62 truck made six appearances with several drivers behind the wheel. Wesley Slimp participated in three races, Cole Butcher handled two events, and Michael Christopher Jr. drove in one. The most notable result came at Watkins Glen International, where Slimp finished 12th—in what was the team’s first race following Friesen’s injury. No additional drivers for the No. 62, aside from Nemechek, have been announced for upcoming events.
Nemechek’s Track Record and Ongoing Racing Commitments
John Hunter Nemechek’s return to the truck series brings a wealth of experience, with 13 previous victories to his name. His latest appearance in the series came in 2023, when he filled in for Taylor Gray at TRICON Garage, awaiting the latter’s eligibility to race full-time. Outside of his Truck Series efforts, Nemechek continues to compete with Legacy Motor Club, entering his third consecutive full-time season in the Cup Series. His dynamic involvement reflects the important role experienced drivers play in both team growth and on-track competition.
Looking Ahead for HFR and Daytona Racing
The decision to field a second full-time entry in 2026 signals Halmar Friesen Racing’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. With John Hunter Nemechek at the helm for Daytona, expectations are high, both for his individual performance and for the future trajectory of the team. The addition of DriveValue.com as a sponsor further enhances HFR’s position in the sport as they prepare for this historic event at Daytona International Speedway. As the season opener approaches, all eyes will be on the new partnership and the potential for success on one of racing’s grandest stages.
