LANDIS, NC – Austin Varco will make his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut with Team Reaume in the No. 22 Ford 150 at San Diego. This marks a major milestone in his racing career as he steps onto one of NASCAR’s national stages in front of a hometown crowd.
Racing a short walk away from his high school alma mater, Varco hails from Chula Vista, CA where he began go-karting at 3, while both of his parent’s club raced. Graduating to race cars in 2020, Austin was awarded a scholarship through the SCCA and won Rookie of the Year honors in 2021. He was then twice a contender for Mazda's prestigious driver shootout and achieved national success and recognition in amateur road and endurance racing until 2024 before moving to stock car racing.
Beyond his professional driving duties, Austin is an advocate for autism spectrum disorder and operates a 501(C)3 non-profit called Race4Autism, which creates accessible motorsports experiences and drivers’ education for those with sensory processing disabilities like Autism.
"It's a dream come true to make my NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut in the city I love, in front of my family and friends, representing iconic San Diego brands. It feels like I've been preparing my whole life for this moment, and I'm ready for the challenge." said Varco.
Varco’s debut marks the next step in a steady rise through the ranks, as he continues his progression with Team Reaume into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series after building experience across multiple levels of competition.
“This debut is a reflection of the steady work Austin has put in to reach this level,” said Josh Reaume. “He’s continued to grow through each step of his career, and that progression has prepared him for this opportunity. We’re excited to see him take on the Truck Series with the No. 22 team and represent both our organization and his hometown in San Diego.”
Tacos El Franc, Dave's Hot Chicken join forces with Autism Society of San Diego as Austin's primary sponsors for this effort. Strategic partnerships with ShoppingSDHouses, College Living Experience, and ASI The White Glove Guys, and support from One44 Group, Excel Together, Chula Vista Electric, and California Sheet Metal strengthen his presence beyond the racetrack and add to the swath of iconic San Diego brands aboard this No. 22 Ford.
About Team Reaume
Team Reaume, formerly known as Reaume Brothers Racing, competes full time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, fielding the No. 2, No. 22, and No. 33 Ford 150 entries. Entering its ninth season, the organization recently completed a full team rebrand. The new identity reflects the organization’s growth, its renewed commitment to operational excellence, and its vision for the next generation of competition both on and off track. Team Reaume is committed to performance, innovation, and building long-term value for its drivers, partners, and team members, while continuing to set the standard for opportunity, diversity, and growth within the NASCAR garage.
About Ford Racing
Ford Racing, based in Dearborn, Michigan, is responsible for all global race programs, as well as all Ford Racing Road programs, including the Mustang GTD and Ford Raptor. Official Ford Racing involvement includes Mustang competition with NASCAR, IMSA, FIA World Endurance Championship, SRO, ADAC Motorsport, Australian Supercars Championship, Formula Drift, and NHRA, as well as our one-make Mustang Dark Horse R series in the US and Australia. Ford Racing also dominates off-road racing in series such as Ultra4, SCORE International, FIA Rally-Raid, the Finke Desert Race in Australia, and the Rebelle Rally. Ford Racing will return to the top tier of endurance racing with its WEC Hypercar program in 2027 while competing in Formula 1 with Red Bull Ford Powertrains beginning in 2026.
About Tacos El Franc
Widely recognized as some of the best tacos in San Diego, Tacos El Franc has earned national attention through its feature on Netflix’s Tacos Chronicles and inclusion in the Michelin Guide 2024. The brand continues to be celebrated by both culinary experts and loyal fans for its authentic approach and standout flavors.
About Dave’s Hot Chicken
What began as a parking-lot pop-up has grown into a global fast-casual phenomenon. Dave’s Hot Chicken specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken, serving tenders and sliders known for their bold flavor and signature heat, with more than 450 locations worldwide.
About Autism Society of San Diego
The Autism Society of San Diego creates connections and empowers individuals and families within the Autism community by providing access to resources, support, and opportunities that help people live fully and meaningfully.
