Panel of Judges Finalized for Shell Rotella SuperRigs at Bristol Motor Speedway

The panel of judges for the 44th annual Shell Rotella SuperRigs Truck Beauty Contest, taking place June 25 to 27 at Bristol Motor Speedway, is officially set, bringing together a respected mix of industry veterans and fresh perspective.

 Returning to the panel are veteran judges Eric Harley and Mike Gaffin, joined by new judge David McKinney. Rounding out the group is special guest judge Leo Barros, whose deep ties to the trucking community and longstanding presence at SuperRigs make his addition especially meaningful. He is stepping in for long-time judge Jami Jones, who is unable to join us this year.

 A familiar face to many in the industry, Barros is an award-winning journalist with Truck News and a former professional driver who still holds a CDL. He has spent years covering SuperRigs firsthand, capturing not just the trucks, but the stories, pride, and craftsmanship behind them. Now, he steps into a new role, bringing that same understanding and perspective to the judging panel.

 With more than three decades in trucking journalism, Barros has built a reputation as a trusted voice across North America through his work with Truck News and Today’s Trucking. His experience behind the wheel and as a trucking industry journalist adds a unique and authentic lens to this year’s competition. It also underscores the strong connection between the U.S. and Canadian trucking communities.

 This year’s panel of judges will look a little different, as long-time judge Jones will not be joining due to scheduling conflicts, and the addition of two new judges. Jones, Harley and Gaffin have helped shape the competition into what it is today and earned the respect of drivers across the industry. Barros, as a guest judge, and McKinney, as a new judge, are looking forward to serving and continuing the strong tradition of Shell Rotella SuperRigs. 

 Shell Rotella SuperRigs is the premier truck beauty contest celebrating the pride, craftsmanship, and dedication of hardworking drivers. Owner-operator truckers from across the United States and Canada compete annually for more than $25,000 in cash and prizes. Twelve drivers will be selected to have their trucks featured in the iconic Shell Rotella SuperRigs calendar in 2027.