After making his NASCAR Canada Series debut earlier this season at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (CTMP), Tyler Gonzalez is set to return to the series when the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham takes place August 14-15.
The St. Cloud, Florida native joined RGR Motorsports for his first NASCAR Canada Series start behind the wheel of the No. 38 RGR Motorsports / Muskoka Mod Centre Ford. While the weekend did not deliver the results Gonzalez and the team had hoped for, the young driver remains focused on the opportunities that lie ahead.
Gonzalez brings an extensive racing résumé despite being new to the NASCAR Canada Series. Since beginning his racing career in karting in 2012, he has competed in a variety of series, including Trans-Am, TC America, Lamborghini Super Trofeo, Michelin Pilot Challenge, GT4 America and the Mazda MX-5 Cup.
One of the highlights of his career came in 2023 when he captured the Toyota GR Cup North America championship.
With Markham introducing a brand-new street course to the NASCAR Canada Series schedule, Gonzalez believes the event presents a unique opportunity, with every driver and team facing the same challenge of learning a new track.
“I’m really looking forward to Markham as trying to compete with the drivers who have been racing this series for years, it’s hard to compete with not only the drivers, but the teams’ extensive knowledge on the tracks and cars,” said Gonzalez. “A new street course levels that playing field.”
His debut at CTMP showed flashes of potential, but mechanical issues prevented the team from fully showcasing its pace.
“At CTMP, we had lots of speed, but rarely got to show it due to unfortunate issues with the car,” Gonzalez added. “I’m looking forward to continuing to work and grow with RGR Motorsports during the select NASCAR Canada races that we have planned to race this year.”
The NASCAR Canada cars have also left a strong impression on the Florida driver.
“During the short time I’ve had in these cars, I’ve definitely fallen in love,” he said. “They’re one of the last truly raw race cars you can jump in and I really feel that fits my driving style.”
Looking ahead to Markham, Gonzalez is optimistic about the team’s prospects and is already eager for another opportunity at CTMP later this season.
“I’m confident we’ll be competing up front at Markham, and looking forward to returning at CTMP later on this year as I feel we have some unfinished business.”
Fans will have the opportunity to see Gonzalez and the rest of the NASCAR Canada field compete on the streets of Markham during the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham, August 14-15.