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Phoenix Raceway: Part Three [Championship Race]

Stewart Friesen’s Statement on 2021 Championship and Future Plans
Stewart Friesen took to social media to release a statement following his elimination from the 2021 NASCAR Truck Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. In his statement, Friesen expressed frustration with the events that led to his race-ending incident and also made key announcements about his future in the series.
"Firstly, I want to extend my congratulations to Tommy Bedlam and the entire GMS Racing team on their 2021 Truck Series Championship. Bedlam had an exceptional season, and he deserves every bit of success he’s earned. He’s been consistent, fast, and a real competitor. I’ve had some great battles with him this season, and I’m proud to see him reach this milestone in his career.
That being said, I want to address the incident that occurred with Tyler Ankrum during the Championship Race. I’m honestly frustrated because, at that point, I felt like we had a legitimate shot at the championship. Unfortunately, Ankrum’s mistake cost me not just the race, but a proper run at the title. I’ve been racing for a long time, and I don’t expect things to always go my way, but that was a huge blow to my chances, and it’s hard to walk away from this one feeling like I wasn’t given a fair shot.
Now, as for my future: Bedlam Reynolds Racing has acquired all the rights to the #52 truck for next season, and I’ll not be driving it. As much as I’ve loved working with Halmar Friesen Racing, I’ve made the decision to step away from being a part-team owner. Being involved in the ownership side of the team is a bigger distraction than I’m willing to deal with right now, and I believe it’s best for my focus to solely be on the racing itself. I want to thank Halmar Racing for all their support over the years. Together, we’ve had some incredible moments, and I’ll always be grateful for their belief in me.
As for what’s next, I’m staying in the Truck Series. However, I’m not ready to reveal my plans just yet. There are still some things to sort out, and I’m excited for what the future holds. I’ve got more to give, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my career."
Summary
In his statement, Stewart Friesen expressed disappointment over the race-ending incident with Tyler Ankrum, which cost him a chance at the 2021 championship. He congratulated Tommy Bedlam on his title win and announced that Bedlam Reynolds Racing would take over the #52 truck next season, a move that does not involve him. Friesen also confirmed his plans to remain in the Truck Series but kept his future team plans under wraps for now.
* * * * *
Barbie Stellar Reflects on Near Miss for Championship
Barbie Stellar (#27, DGR-Crosley) stood at the edge of Victory Lane, clearly in awe of how close she came to winning the 2021 NASCAR Truck Series Championship. After an incredible season, Stellar, who was considered an outsider by many at the beginning of the year, finished just 3 points behind Tommy Bedlam in the final standings. Despite falling short, Stellar couldn’t hide her pride in how far she had come and what lies ahead.
"I can’t believe how close we came," Stellar said, her voice filled with emotion. "Going into the season, I was definitely an outsider. No one expected me to even make it to the Championship Four, let alone come this close to winning the whole thing. It’s surreal. We fought hard all year, and just to be in contention at the end of this race is something I’ll always be proud of."
Looking to the Future with Toyota Gazoo Racing
Despite the disappointment of finishing second, Stellar is already looking ahead to the future with optimism. DGR-Crosley will transition to become Toyota Gazoo Racing for the 2022 season, a move that Stellar believes will give her and the team the tools to compete at an even higher level.
"We’ve got some exciting things in the works for next season. The team is transitioning to Toyota Gazoo Racing, and I believe with the new setup, we’ll be stronger than ever. Toyota has been incredible to work with, and I know they’ll bring even more support to the table. We’re going to have an even better truck next year, and with the progress we’ve made, I truly believe we’ll be back stronger and ready to take another shot at the championship."
Looking Ahead to 2022
For Stellar, the near-miss in 2021 only fuels her determination for the future. "We’ve built something really special this season, and I know I’ve got more to give. We’re not stopping here. I’m ready for 2022, and I know we’re going to keep improving every single race. This is just the beginning."
* * * * *

Juice Millar Frustrated After Championship Loss, Warns Grant Enfinger for Next Year
Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske) was understandably frustrated after falling just short of the 2021 Truck Series Championship, marking the second consecutive year he has come so close but ultimately missed out. In a statement following his elimination from the Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway, Millar expressed his dissatisfaction with the way things unfolded and suggested that his nice and respectful approach may have made him vulnerable in the title race.
Juice Millar’s Statement:
“It’s honestly frustrating. To get so close, two years in a row, and to come up short again—it really stings. I’ve been working so hard for this, and we’ve put ourselves in position to win both years, but something always seems to go wrong at the final hurdle. It’s a tough pill to swallow. I know I’ve tried to be the nice guy, the one who is respectful, and I’ve always believed in racing with integrity. But you know what? Sometimes, that makes you vulnerable. It’s hard to keep getting pushed aside while others make their own paths to victory."
Looking Ahead – Warning for Grant Enfinger in 2022:
Millar’s frustration was palpable as he made a pointed statement about the competition, particularly Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull), who he believes may be in for a rude awakening next season.
“To everyone who thinks I’m just a nice guy who will take another loss quietly, they’re mistaken. Grant Enfinger better watch out next year because things are far from even. I’m coming for that title in 2022, and I’m going to make sure I don’t let this happen again. I’m not here just to play nice. If people want to keep taking what’s mine, they better be ready for a different kind of race next season.”
Summary:
Juice Millar is clearly disappointed after missing out on the 2021 Truck Series Championship for the second year in a row, and he is no longer interested in simply being the “nice guy.” With Grant Enfinger and other competitors in mind, Millar plans to bring a more aggressive and determined approach next season. His frustration with the way things have unfolded is clear, but it has only fueled his resolve to come back stronger and make 2022 a year to remember.
* * * * *
Michael Waltrip Reflects on a Thrilling 2021 Truck Series Season
Michael Waltrip, a former driver and now analyst, took to social media to reflect on the 2021 NASCAR Truck Series season, which saw a remarkable amount of competitive parity and unpredictability. In his post, Waltrip pointed out that out of 23 races, 14 different drivers claimed victory, showcasing just how wide-open the championship battle was throughout the year.
Michael Waltrip’s Reflection:
“It’s hard to put into words just how incredible this season has been,” Waltrip began. “We saw 14 different winners in 23 races, and that’s just unheard of. Blaze, Millar, Slayer, Stellar, you name it—everyone had a chance to shine. We’ve never seen a year like this, and it’s clear that the competition in the Truck Series is getting stronger every season.”