MEMPHIS, Tenn.– Aug. 20, 2026– FedEx Freight drivers Terry Covey and Andy Garcia came away with national titles at the 2026 National Truck Driving Championships, highlighting the company’s performance at the Aug. 11-14 event in Pittsburgh.
A 17-year professional driver who was competing in his sixth straight NTDC, Covey won the Sleeper Berth class at this year’s championships. This was the Wichita, Kansas native’s second podium finish as he also placed third in the Tank Truck class at the 2024 NTDC. The 2026 Kansas Grand Champion, Covey has logged more than 1.5 million safe-driving miles.
Making his second NTDC appearance in three years, Garcia led a FedEx Freight sweep of the 5-Axle class at this year’s championship. Driving out of the company’s Harlingen, Texas, service center, Garcia has logged more than 600,000 safe-driving miles during his 12-year professional career with FedEx Freight.
Below is a list of other FedEx Freight drivers who were top finishers in their respective driving class:
- Matt Boenisch (Howards Grove, Wisconsin), 3rd Place, 5-Axle
- David Comings (Wahpeton, North Dakota), 3rd Place, 4-Axle
- Adam Heim (Rathdrum, Idaho), 2nd Place, 5-Axle
- Vlad Piatkovskyi (Joppa, Maryland), 2nd Place, Twins
- Kenny Rageth Jr. (Glenrock, Wyoming), 2nd Place, Flatbed
Several other FedEx Freight drivers were also recognized at this year’s championships. David Comings tied Todd Gimpel (Aurora, Nebraska) with the Highest Written exam score while Ed Hill (Dover, Delaware) received the Vehicle Condition Award for the best pre-trip inspection. Additionally, Ritch Fundell (Tonica, Illinois) was a member of the Illinois team that won the State Team Trophy.
FedEx Freight was represented by 112 drivers at this year’s championships, nearly a quarter of the competition field. Drivers qualified for the NTDC by winning their state’s truck driving championship in one of nine classes. Qualifiers must also be accident-free for the past year.
At the championships, they earn points by showcasing their driving skills and knowledge of the industry through a written exam, pre-trip inspection, and driving skills challenge. Since 2003, FedEx Freight drivers have earned 55 National Championship titles.
About FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight is North America’s largest less-than-truckload (LTL)carrier, delivering industry-leading published transit times, service levels, and reliability. FedEx Freight’s service offerings — including Priority, Economy, and Direct — allow customers to balance speed and cost to meet their unique needs. FedEx Custom Critical, a subsidiary, provides expedited, time- and temperature-specific freight solutions, including Surface Expedite and White Glove Services, available 24/7/365. With nearly 30,000 vehicles, of which nearly 17,000 are tractors, and 40,000 dedicated team members to support its network of over 365 locations, we ensure freight arrives safely, securely, and on time across all 50 U.S. states, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. FedEx Freight leverages operational efficiency, data-driven technology, and a focused sales organization to provide outstanding service.
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