UPS Driver Miguel Corral Takes Grand Champion Crown at 2026 National Truck Driving Championships

Miguel Corral, a 4-axle driver for UPS, has been crowned the 2026 Bendix Grand Champion at the American Trucking Associations’ National Truck Driving & Step Van Championships held in Pittsburgh on August 14. Corral triumphed over 429 elite competitors representing 55 motor carriers and 49 states, all of whom had collectively logged nearly 775 million accident-free miles. The event, which ran over four days, tested drivers’ skills, industry knowledge, and commitment to safety through rigorous competition. Corral, a resident of Crown Point, Indiana, secured his spot at nationals by winning the Illinois state championship. He previously won the twins division in 2018 and placed second in the 4-axle category in 2022. With a career spanning nearly three decades and over 1.4 million safe driving miles, Corral credited his victory to hard work, dedication, consistency, and the unwavering support of his teammates. “It’s an unbelievable experience,” Corral said after his win. “It took years for me to accomplish it. I’ve been doing truck driving championships since 2012.” ATA President Chris Spear praised Corral’s achievement, emphasizing the broader significance of the championships: “Safe roads begin with highly trained, highly qualified professional drivers. The National Truck Driving Championships celebrate the very best among them.” FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs also commended the drivers, highlighting their role in maintaining road safety and supply chain efficiency. The event recognized additional honors: Todd Loreman of Walmart Transportation won Rookie of the Year, Illinois claimed the state team championship, Melissa Johnson received the Sam Gillette Volunteer of the Year Award, and Jeff Davis was honored with the Neil Darmstadter Professional Excellence Award. The NTDC, now in its 90th year, continues to showcase the professionalism and skill of America’s trucking workforce.