Tide returns to NASCAR with throwback Darlington paint scheme

At the NASCAR Hall of Fame with former Tide drivers Darrell Waltrip, Ricky Rudd and Ricky Craven, the new look for the No. 20 Toyota was revealed.

The iconic orange/yellow/white Tide scheme has been missing from the track for some time. The car won 20 races between 1987 and 2006, including Waltrip's 1989 Daytona 500 triumph, Rudd's 1997 Brickyard 400 win, and Craven's famously spectacular victory at Darlington in 2003.

In last year's Southern 500, the No. 32 team did bring back the color scheme, but with a different sponsor.

“Tide has such a rich history in this sport,” said Matt Kenseth, driver of the No. 20 Toyota Camry.  “I can’t think of a better race to make their return to NASCAR than for the Southern 500. I’m looking forward to being a part of the second annual throwback weekend, and am proud to represent such an iconic brand. There have been many great moments associated with Tide and its former talented drivers; I’m honored to continue the legacy with Tide PODS at Darlington.” 

Tide is celebrating their 70th anniversary this year and their backing of JGR won't stop with the Southern 500. They will also serve as an associate sponsor on the other three members of the JGR fleet. Tide will also return for the final race of the regular season (Richmond) and the first race of the Chase (Chicagoland), yet again as an associate sponsor on the Nos. 18, 19 and 20.

“This is a thrill for us,” said Joe Gibbs, owner of Joe Gibbs Racing. “Not only is this a throwback paint scheme that we know the fans will be excited for, but it is with a sponsor that has a tremendous history in our sport. This is our 25^th Anniversary season at Joe Gibbs Racing and I know it is the 70^th Anniversary of Tide. They really are a historic brand in our country and their new partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing for Darlington is a real honor.”