NASCAR Truck Series veteran Gio Ruggiero is slated to make his first competitive appearance since 2024 when he steps into the CARS Pro Late Model Tour at North Wilkesboro on Friday, July 17. The race will be held just before the NASCAR weekend, giving the driver a chance to fine‑tune his setup ahead of the Saturday Truck Series event.
A Strategic Comeback at a Historic Track
Ruggiero will drive for Monahan Motorsports, a team that has become a fixture in the late‑model circuit. The partnership represents a calculated move for a driver who previously chased late‑model dates before committing full‑time to the Truck Series, and now sees the CARS Tour as a vital stepping stone.
In a brief interview, Ruggiero expressed excitement about returning to the track, noting that the North Wilkesboro event will provide valuable mileage and help him prepare for the upcoming Truck race. "I’m looking forward to getting back in the cockpit and seeing where we stand," he said.
Fans can purchase tickets online through the CARS Tour’s official ticketing portal, with options for general admission and reserved seating. Live coverage will be available on FloRacing, ensuring that viewers who cannot attend in person still experience the action in real time.
Community Roots and Future Aspirations
Local enthusiast Scotte, a North Wilkesboro native with ambitions of turning professional, will be among the spectators, underscoring the community’s deep ties to the sport. His presence highlights the race’s significance beyond the professional circuit, resonating with fans who have followed the track’s evolution for decades.
The CARS Pro Late Model Tour has increasingly attracted NASCAR drivers seeking additional seat time and experimental setups. Ruggiero’s participation follows a trend that has produced tighter on‑track competition and more unpredictable outcomes, much to the delight of racing aficionados.
With the race scheduled for Friday, July 17, and the NASCAR Truck Series set to follow on Saturday, Ruggiero hopes the experience will translate into a stronger performance when the Truck Series hits the track. The upcoming event promises a blend of historic venue charm and modern racing strategy, drawing attention from both series regulars and newcomers alike.