The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series has not been short of young talent in recent seasons. But from that pool, only a few have risen as quickly as Layne Riggs. After capturing the 2022 NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series National Championship, Riggs entered national competition with pedigree and promise. By 2024, he was running full-time in the Truck Series with Front Row Motorsports. Since then, he has collected two wins, multiple top-fives, and Rookie of the Year honors, establishing him as one of the brightest prospects in the pipeline. This, in fact, has now given way to speculations far beyond the Truck Series.
That progression has placed Riggs at the center of championship discussions in 2025. Riggs has already amassed three wins this season, including a Bristol victory that came after overcoming an early spin. Currently, he sits second in the championship standings with more than 400 laps led to date. For a driver who struggled early in his rookie year, the growth in consistency and composure is undeniable. The performance also hints at ambitions larger than the championship fight itself, about which Riggs spoke openly.
A NASCAR driver poised for success
In a recent interview with Racing America on Sports Illustrated, Riggs revealed his outlook for next season and beyond. He noted that while his current focus is firmly on Trucks, he is “planning on returning to the No. 34 at Front Row Motorsports Ford F-150 in 2026.” That commitment showed the stability FRM has provided for his career.
This came as the organization expanded to two full-time trucks in 2025. Yet the clarity of that statement was quickly balanced with a telling admission that points to aspirations at higher levels of NASCAR competition.
As per a tweet, Riggs added that he “would also like to branch out and run select NASCAR Cup or Xfinity Series events next season.” The remark signaled that his development arc may not be confined to the Truck Series for long. Valuable select starts in either of the upper series would provide valuable seat time.
The NASCAR driver could use this time in deeper fields, on longer tracks, and in the very Next Gen machinery that defines modern Cup racing. For Riggs, such experience could accelerate the timeline from Truck title contender to full-time national series driver.
Meanwhile, it would also test his adaptability to different cars and competitive environments. The opportunity would not come without challenges, but it may serve as the natural next step in his rapid ascent.
Even as he eyes higher series, Riggs has acknowledged the need for patience. He explained in the same conversation that he feels he needs “a little bit more time,” an assessment that reflects a balance between ambition and self-awareness.
By continuing to sharpen his craft in Trucks while experimenting with occasional Cup or Xfinity starts, he positions himself to avoid the pitfalls of jumping too early. The cautious optimism echoes the developmental path of other successful drivers who transitioned after establishing a strong base in Trucks or Xfinity.
However, for now, Riggs remains focused on a Truck Series championship.
Layne Riggs aims for a Truck Series championship
Layne Riggs is set to make his 50th NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series start this weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The 23-year-old driver in the No. 34 Ford F-150 has made significant strides since his debut in 2022. After a challenging rookie season in 2024, Riggs has emerged as a formidable contender. He reached the 2025 playoffs and secured a victory at Bristol Motor Speedway that propelled him into the Round of 8.
Reflecting on his journey, Riggs acknowledged the difficulties he faced in securing a full-time ride. He credits his partnership with Infinity Communications for enabling part-time opportunities with various teams. This includes Halmar Friesen Racing, Young’s Motorsports, and Spire Motorsports. A pivotal moment came when his father, former NASCAR driver Scott Riggs, gave him a boost. He facilitated a conversation with the General Manager of Front Row Motorsports, leading to Riggs’s full-time position.
Entering his 50th start, Riggs has accumulated impressive statistics. He has 5 wins, 17 top-five finishes, 24 top-10 finishes, and 612 laps led. Such figures earned him the 2024 Sunoco Rookie of the Year award. His recent performance, including a win at Pocono Raceway, only further shows his growth and determination.
As he approaches this milestone, Riggs expresses confidence in his abilities and his team’s progress, stating, “I know what kind of feel I’m looking for, and it just got easier after that.”
With the playoffs underway, Riggs is focused on capturing his first championship. His journey from overcoming early challenges to becoming a playoff contender exemplifies his resilience and commitment to excellence. As he continues to evolve as a driver, Riggs remains poised to make a significant impact in the NASCAR Truck Series.