David Gilliland Racing Returns to TRD in 2023

By: Tom Luttermoser          Image: (could not find credit)

It appears that Toyota Racing Development didn't have to wait too long to find the replacement for the loss of Kyle Busch Motorsports to the Chevrolet camp. Why is this important? Because since 2010, KBM fed TRD and Joe Gibbs Racing with tons of talent, 95 Truck Series victories and 2 championships... and those are some HUGE shoes to fill. 

But per Kelly Crandall from Racer.com on Wednesday, David Gilliland Racing will be looking to fill those shoes with a return to Toyota in 2023. With their plans still being finalized, the team is expected to field 4 trucks with Tanner and Taylor Gray, Corey Heim and (like KBM's 51 truck) a 4th truck hosting several TRD development drivers. 

​This move back to TRD means the loss of rising star and Ford Performance contract driver Hailie Deegan. Hailie announced Tuesday that she would field the 07 Pristine Auctions Ford Mustang for SS Green Light Racing at the upcoming Alsco Uniforms 302 at Las Vegas in her inaugural Xfinity Series event meaning that Ford is doubling down on progressing her career and they have no intention of letting her go any time soon. 

Where does Deegan go for 2023? In the Craftsman Truck Series, the only Ford Performance team (announced) is Front Row Motorsports. Many are leaning toward her movement up to the Xfinity Series full time due to her involvement with SSGLR in Vegas.

What do you guys think? Can DGR fill the KBM shoes? Where does Hailie go next year?