Early on, Toyota driver Tyler Gonzalez’s parents recognized that he had a knack for racing. Though he enjoyed racing bikes as a child, it became apparent that he was even more adept with go-karting.
“I started racing BMX and Moto when I was four and found karting at seven, and my parents decided that I had more natural talent on four wheels rather than two,” he says. “So, we made the switch to karting and never looked back.”
Gonzalez has been on the fast track ever since, creating lasting memories along the way, including winning the inaugural season of the Toyota GR Cup series in 2023.
“Over the years I’ve learned that in the end, we are here for championships,” he says. “Race wins are just a plus, so always calculate your risks and race with the big picture in mind.”
Prepping for the Ultimate Goal
As he gears up for his next races, Gonzalez is focused on keeping his mind clear of any roadblocks.
“My goal this season is to win the GT4 America championship,” he says. “To do that, I mentally prepare myself before every on-track session, whether it is a test or the race itself, to be 100% laser focused.”
So far this season, he’s put that focus into practice. He, along with his teammate Gresham Wagner, won Pirelli GT4 America SprintX Race No. 3 at Barber Motorsports Park. It is Gonzalez’s and Wagner’s second win of the year.
Fueling Successes and Passions
The Florida native attributes these professional highlights to the ongoing support of the Toyota Driver Development (TD2) program and his mentors.
“I am extremely grateful to be a part of TD2,” Gonzalez says. “It has given me so many opportunities and has allowed me to make so many crucial connections inside the world of motorsports.”
Racing may play a central role in his life, but it doesn’t define him entirely. Other hobbies fuel his passions as well.
“I take my racing very seriously, but I also enjoy many other hobbies, such as building street cars and race cars, boats and trucks,” Gonzalez says. “Oftentimes, in my lower-level races, you can find me under the car alongside my mechanic fixing whatever I just tore up on track!”
Originally published October 29, 2025