Driver Information

Giovanni Ruggiero (born August 29, 2006) is an American professional stock car racing driver. He last competed full-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 17 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for Tricon Garage and part-time in the ARCA Menards Series and ARCA Menards Series East, driving the No. 18 Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs Racing. He is a member of Toyota Racing Development.
Full Name:
Giovanni Ruggiero
Date of Birth:
29 August 2006
Place of Birth:
Seekonk, Massachusetts, USA
Nationality:
United States
Residence:
Seekonk, Massachusetts, USA
Gender:
Male
Profession:
Professional Racing Driver
Notable Achievements:
Show Me The Money Pro Late Model Series Champion (Years - 2022), Southern Super Series Champion (Years - 2023), CRA Super Series Champion (Years - 2023), Winchester 400 Winner (Years - 2023)
Car Number:
17
Car Model:
Toyota Tundra TRD Pro
Race Won in 2025:

Giovanni Ruggiero

Giovanni Ruggiero Bio

Early Life and Background

Giovanni Ruggiero was born on August 29, 2006, in Seekonk, Massachusetts, U.S. His early exposure to racing came from watching events at Seekonk Speedway, which inspired him to pursue a career in motorsports. Ruggiero began racing Legend cars at a young age, convincing his father to support his racing ambitions.

In 2021, Ruggiero started competing at local short tracks in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, where he achieved his first victory at Hudson Speedway. This early success laid the groundwork for his future in racing.

Path to NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

Ruggiero’s racing journey progressed as he began to compete in late models across the United States. In 2022, he ran a full season in the Show Me The Money Pro Late Model Series, where he won two races and claimed the championship. His performance in late models continued to improve in 2023, as he won championships in both the CRA Super Series and the Southern Super Series.

His notable achievements in late models, including winning the prestigious Winchester 400, showcased his talent and determination, leading to opportunities in higher-tier series.

Giovanni Ruggiero Career

Early Career (2021-2022)

Ruggiero began making a name for himself in local racing circuits, where he quickly gained recognition for his skills. His championship win in the Show Me The Money Pro Late Model Series in 2022 marked a significant milestone in his early career, establishing him as a rising star in the sport.

During this period, he also made his debut in the Solid Rock Carriers CARS Pro Late Model Tour, winning in his first career start at Greenville-Pickens Speedway, further solidifying his reputation.

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Breakthrough (2025)

In December 2024, Ruggiero was announced as the driver of the No. 17 Toyota for Tricon Garage in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for the 2025 season. He made an impressive debut at the Fresh From Florida 250 in Daytona, finishing in second place. Ruggiero’s first career win in the Truck Series came at Talladega, where he showcased his racing prowess.

Despite not qualifying for the playoffs, Ruggiero’s performance throughout the season demonstrated his potential and skill as a competitive driver in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

Current Team Era (2025-Present)

Ruggiero continues to drive for Tricon Garage, where he has established himself as a promising talent in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. His transition to this level of competition has been marked by strong performances, including multiple top finishes. As he gains experience, Ruggiero is expected to further develop his racing capabilities and compete for more victories.

Race Car Driver Style and Strengths

Ruggiero is known for his aggressive driving style and strategic approach to racing. His ability to make bold moves on the track, combined with his keen understanding of race dynamics, allows him to excel in competitive situations.

Notable Achievements and Milestones

Ruggiero’s notable achievements include winning the Show Me The Money Pro Late Model Series Championship in 2022 and multiple championships in 2023, including the Southern Super Series and CRA Super Series. His victory at the Winchester 400 is considered a significant highlight of his early career.

Giovanni Ruggiero Career Wins

Giovanni Ruggiero has made a strong impact in his early racing career, accumulating several notable wins across various series. His championship titles and race victories reflect his talent and dedication to the sport.

Current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Highlights

In the 2025 season, Ruggiero achieved his first win at Talladega, marking a significant milestone in his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series career. He has also secured multiple top finishes, showcasing his potential as a competitive driver in the series.

Previous ARCA Menards Series Achievements

Ruggiero made his debut in the ARCA Menards Series East in 2023, where he finished fourth in his first race. He continued to compete in the series, achieving one win and multiple top finishes, demonstrating his versatility and skill across different racing platforms.

Giovanni Ruggiero Family

Family Background and NASCAR Lineage

Details regarding Ruggiero’s family background are limited, but he is not related to former NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour driver Reggie Ruggiero.

Personal Life

Information about Ruggiero’s personal life is not widely available, as he focuses primarily on his racing career.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Giovanni Ruggiero as he competes full-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. After a strong start with a second-place finish at Daytona, he secured his first career win at Talladega, highlighting his potential as a future star in the series. As the season progresses, Ruggiero aims to build on his early successes and establish himself as a consistent contender in the Truck Series, with the support of Tricon Garage and Toyota Racing Development.