Autobayng News Team
While some young motorsports enthusiasts might idolize driver Buddy Kofoid, the Toyota Driver Development (TD2) racer wants them to know he’s just like them.
“I’m just a humble, reserved person who is just as much a fan of the sport as they are,” he says. “I’m very approachable and love to interact — I’m no different than them. I just want to be the best and will always appreciate their support.”
After all, he’s also been in their shoes. He knows what it’s like to look up to someone whom you admire. For the Penngrove, California, native, that person was part of his family.
“My dad has always been a mentor to me in racing, but also in life in general,” he says. “He’s always the first person I go to for any and all questions I may have.” He also had another role model outside of his home: racecar driver Christopher Bell.
“I’ve always been a fan of his when I was a lot younger and still am to this day,” he says. “I’ve always appreciated how he came up through the ranks and made it, as well as how he races. He’s been great to me and helpful with anything I ask him with my pursuit of trying to make it to the level he is at. I will always appreciate that; it goes a long way for me.”
Full Speed Ahead
Kofoid has come a long way since his go-kart racing days of childhood. Most recently, the 23-year-old snagged first prize at the L.G. Everist Huset’s Shootout presented by Myrl & Roy’s Paving at Huset’s Speedway, the latest accomplishment of his successful career competing in the World of Outlaws series.
“I’m glad we at least got one in [this weekend],” he told “Speedway Digest” in August. “This is one of my favorite tracks. This has always been a really fun track for me. I’m confident that we’ll be just as good hopefully everywhere we go.”
Revved-Up Support
He attributes his success to being part of a strong racing community that opens doors and pushes him to aim high.
“TD2 has changed my life for the better,” he says. “My experience has been amazing; it’s been something I’ve worked hard for my whole career to be involved with an incredible manufacturer/organization like this that has treated me like family. TD2 has given me opportunities that I never thought would have been possible. Things I really have dreamed of. They have helped me make it to the top of our sport and do it for a living.”
Hitting All Cylinders
To ensure all his aspirations come to fruition, Kofoid is doing everything he can to train himself, in every way, for those inevitable triumphs.
“I am preparing for that more physically by eating better, staying in shape more, going to the chiropractor, and making it to TPC when my schedule allows,” he says. “I am preparing for that mentally by being involved even more with the team, watching film, and just believing we can do it and belong here.”
Originally published October 10, 2025
