Hold onto your racing helmets – veteran driver Casey Mears is about to shatter expectations by diving into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for the very first time, all while celebrating a jaw-dropping milestone: his 600th career NASCAR start! If you're a fan of high-octane action, this one's got all the drama and excitement you crave. But here's where it gets controversial – is a Cup Series veteran like Mears really stepping down, or is he elevating the Trucks to new heights? Let's dive in and unpack the details.
On October 24 at the legendary Martinsville Speedway, Casey Mears will fire up the engines in the No. 69 The Pit Stop Diecasts Ford F-150 for MBM Motorsports, marking his eagerly anticipated debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. For those new to the sport, the Truck Series is NASCAR's entry-level professional series, where drivers compete in modified pickup trucks on tracks of all sizes – think high-speed battles, tight turns, and plenty of strategy, often serving as a proving ground for future stars. And this race isn't just any outing; it represents Mears' 600th start across the NASCAR landscape, encompassing the top-tier Cup Series, the mid-level Xfinity Series, and now the Trucks.
Mears, a seasoned pro who clinched victory in the 2007 Coca-Cola 600 – a grueling 600-mile race at Charlotte Motor Speedway that's one of NASCAR's most prestigious events – has a storied history spanning multiple motorsport worlds. He's no stranger to success, from open-wheel racing roots to dominating in the Cup Series, where he earned respect for his adaptability and skill. Now, he's flipping the script by joining the Truck Series, teaming up with the enthusiastic crew at MBM Motorsports and their beloved sponsor, The Pit Stop Diecasts, which caters to diecast model collectors and NASCAR enthusiasts. This collaboration feels like a perfect match: a driver with decades of experience, a team bursting with passion, and a sponsor that keeps the flame alive for fans who love collecting those tiny, detailed race car replicas.
And this is the part most people miss – the sheer dedication it takes to rack up 600 starts. Mears reflected on the moment with genuine enthusiasm: 'It's pretty special to come back to Martinsville for my 600th NASCAR start,' he shared. 'This sport has given me so many incredible experiences, and to make my Truck Series debut with MBM Motorsports and The Pit Stop Diecasts at such an iconic track is exciting. The Truck Series has always been on my list — it’s tough, exciting racing, and Martinsville is the perfect place to make it happen.' For beginners, Martinsville Speedway is a short-track gem, famous for its paperclip shape and bumper-to-bumper racing that tests drivers' finesse and patience – imagine a rollercoaster where every corner counts!
The No. 69 The Pit Stop Diecasts Ford F-150 will turn heads with its striking black-and-red design, proudly honoring Mears' monumental achievement. Team owner Carl Long couldn't hide his excitement either: 'Having a driver like Casey in our truck is a huge moment for MBM Motorsports,' he said. 'Reaching 600 NASCAR starts is something very few drivers ever accomplish, and we’re honored he chose to do it with us. The experience and professionalism that Casey brings mean a lot to our program, and race fans are going to love seeing that No. 69 The Pit Stop Diecasts Ford on the track.'
By hitting this 600-start mark, Mears joins an exclusive club of NASCAR legends known for their endurance and talent. His journey from open-wheel circuits to Cup Series glory showcases why he's hailed as one of the sport's most versatile and respected figures. But let's get controversial here – some fans argue that a driver of Mears' caliber 'slumming it' in the Truck Series could overshadow younger talent, while others see it as a breath of fresh air, proving that skill transcends series boundaries. What do you think? Is this a bold career pivot or a risky move that challenges the status quo?
Beyond this thrilling debut, The Pit Stop Diecasts will also partner as a major associate sponsor for the No. 66 Garage 66 Ford Mustang Dark Horse at the NASCAR Championship race at Phoenix Raceway on November 2. For context, this is part of MBM Motorsports' Cup Series operation, highlighting their versatility across NASCAR's tiers. Don't miss the action – the Slim Jim 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway will broadcast live on FS1, the Motor Racing Network (MRN), and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio on channel 90, kicking off at 6 p.m. ET on Friday, October 24.
— MBM Motorsports —
What are your thoughts on Casey Mears' Truck Series leap? Do you agree it's a smart way to celebrate 600 starts, or should veterans stick to the Cup? Share your opinions in the comments – let's debate!
