This weekend, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series enters a new chapter by competing on its inaugural street circuit in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. The 1.8-mile, 14-turn waterfront track, which borders the historic Vinoy Park and the St. Petersburg Pier, will host the OnlyBulls Green Flag 150 on Saturday at noon Eastern Time, broadcast live on FOX, NRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. This race offers both an exciting challenge for the drivers and a fresh opportunity to engage with a passionate fanbase in a picturesque urban setting.
Iconic Waterfront Course Draws Large Audiences and Intense Competition
More than 100,000 fans regularly pack the grandstands and overlook the high rises surrounding the street circuit, which has been a staple for the NTT IndyCar Series for over 20 years. For the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, this weekend marks a significant departure from traditional oval tracks as they navigate the narrow, twisty course that demands precision and adaptability.
Drivers Embrace the Unique Experience of Racing on City Streets
The driver lineup has expressed enthusiasm for this new experience, even as most prepare to face challenges unlike those on typical circuits. Daniel Dye, a driver for Kaulig Racing’s RAM Truck team, shared his excitement about racing on a street course for only the second time after his previous experience in Chicago with the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
“The first time I got to be on a street course was only about eight months ago (racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) in Chicago, but it was a whole different experience and super unique and I really enjoyed it,”
said Daniel Dye, Kaulig Racing RAM Truck driver.
Dye also expressed personal excitement about racing in his home state, adding a layer of pride to the occasion.
“So, to get to do it in my home state of Florida in such a cool place as St. Petersburg, I’m pumped. I love coming to Florida as much as I can—start in Daytona and end in Miami (Homestead) and be here in St. Pete for the third race of the season is pretty cool.
He credited NASCAR Cup Series driver A.J. Allmendinger for guidance as he prepares for this unique event.
“I’m looking forward to it and been talking to my teammate A.J. Allmendinger,”
Dye added.
Experienced Star Drivers Add Prestige to the Race Weekend
The weekend’s entries include a mix of accomplished racers from various disciplines, elevating the competition. Colin Braun, a noted sports car driver, will pilot the RAM team’s No. 25 RAM 1500 “free agent truck,” a vehicle that has featured several star drivers throughout the season, including NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart and current NASCAR Cup Series competitor Ty Dillon.
In addition, the field includes respected former IndyCar champions making their NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debuts. Dario Franchitti, winner of the 2011 St. Pete IndyCar race and multi-time IndyCar Series champion, will drive the No. 1 TRICON Garage Toyota, while former Indianapolis 500 polesitter James Hinchcliffe competes in the No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet. Newcomer Adam Andretti, related to NASCAR legends John and Mario Andretti, also joins the grid in the No. 5 TRICON Garage Toyota after his NASCAR debut last week in Atlanta.
Championship Contenders Prepare for a Crucial Early-Season Test
The race will test a competitive field that includes Front Row Motorsports’ Chandler Smith, who holds a 28-point advantage in the standings after winning the season opener in Daytona. TRICON Garage’s Gio Ruggiero trails closely in pursuit of the championship early momentum.
The teams and drivers will begin their weekend on Friday with a 50-minute practice session at 4 p.m. ET, followed by Kennametal Pole Qualifying at 5:05 p.m. ET, offering the first opportunity to adapt to the intricate street course.
Significance of the St. Pete Race for NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series’ Future
This inaugural street race represents a strategic expansion for the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, appealing to new markets and broadening its competitive landscape. The unique demands of a street course will challenge even the most experienced drivers, potentially reshaping early-season championship battles. The event’s success could signal more urban races on the calendar, enhancing the series’ visibility and fan engagement in diverse locations.
