Toni Breidinger Shines at the Rose Parade Amid High Security and Big Names
January 1, 2025 — Pasadena, CA
The 136th Rose Parade, themed “Best Day Ever,” drew approximately a million spectators, with many camping overnight along the iconic 5.5-mile route. Televised in 70 countries, this New Year’s spectacle featured 82 entries and a host of notable personalities, but Toni Breidinger, the rising star of the NASCAR Truck Series, stole the show as she represented the Women’s Sports Foundation during the festivities.
A Star-Studded Lineup with Toni Breidinger Front and Center
Among the standout figures was Billie Jean King, the legendary 12-time Grand Slam winner and Grand Marshal of the parade. King, known for her iconic 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” victory, proudly represented the Women’s Sports Foundation alongside Breidinger and two-time Olympic gold medalist water polo player Ashleigh Johnson.
Addressing her fans from a convertible during the parade, Breidinger shared her excitement:
“Hey guys! Happy New Year! I’m currently in the Rose Parade. Tune in now on NBC to check it out.”
Breidinger’s participation wasn’t just about celebration—it was an inspiration. As the 25-year-old prepares for her 2025 debut in the NASCAR Truck Series, she continues to break barriers and inspire young women to consider motorsports as a career.
A Multifaceted Icon
When she’s not burning rubber on the racetrack, Breidinger is making waves as a Victoria’s Secret model, balancing her life as an athlete and a fashion icon. Her Rose Parade appearance also coincided with the pregame celebrations for the College Football Playoff quarterfinal between the Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes in Pasadena.
This isn’t the first time NASCAR has been represented at the Rose Parade. Legends like Richard Petty and rising stars such as Rajah Caruth have also brought stock car racing into the spotlight at this cherished event.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 NASCAR Truck Series
Breidinger has her sights set on a pivotal year ahead. She will drive the No. 5 Toyota Tundra for Tricon Garage, a top-tier team in the Truck Series. Sharing her thoughts on her upcoming rookie season, she expressed both excitement and determination:
“I’m definitely excited for that next step. Obviously, there is going to be a learning curve with it, but Toyota’s been super supportive, and I’ve been preparing and grinding pretty hard during the offseason. This is a good time for me to get dialed in and be ready when the season starts.”
Despite a lackluster 2024 ARCA Menards Series performance, Breidinger is determined to prove her worth. Replacing Dean Thompson, who faced a challenging season marked by 15 DNFs over two years, Breidinger brings not only her racing skills but also significant sponsorship and a massive fan following.
A Day of Joy and Remembrance
The Rose Parade’s jubilant atmosphere was tempered by somber news earlier in the day from New Orleans, where a tragic incident on Bourbon Street left 15 people dead in a suspected terrorist attack. Law enforcement in Pasadena heightened security, ensuring the safety of the thousands who had gathered. A moment of silence preceded the festivities, adding a poignant layer to the celebrations.
As Toni Breidinger continues to rise as a NASCAR star, her appearance at the Rose Parade served as a reminder of her growing influence—on and off the track. From inspiring young girls to promoting NASCAR to new audiences, Breidinger is poised to make 2025 her breakout year.
