A.J. Allmendinger will remain with Kaulig Racing for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, as confirmed just 13 races into his latest campaign following his move up from the Xfinity Series. The news of A.J. Allmendinger returning to Kaulig Racing for 2026 was revealed by team officials, reinforcing his place on the Cup circuit well ahead of time.
Official Confirmation Secures Allmendinger’s Future
According to Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic, who relayed the news on Monday’s episode of The Teardown podcast, Kaulig Racing team president Chris Rice has provided a clear statement on Allmendinger’s status for next year.
“Chris Rice told me, 100 percent certainty, A.J. Allmendinger is going to be back in the Cup car next year.”
—Jordan Bianchi on A.J. Allmendinger’s future with Kaulig Racing
This announcement answers any lingering doubts about Allmendinger’s role and commits both driver and team for another year at NASCAR’s highest level.
Performance Highlights and Playoff Prospects
Allmendinger has made a noticeable impact in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series, amassing 267 points through 13 races, with four top-10 finishes, one top-five, three DNFs, two laps led, and maintaining an average starting position of 15.462 and finishing at 21.08. His recent performance at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where he finished fourth in the Coca-Cola 600, marks his highest finish and points haul of the season.
This standout showing propelled Allmendinger up eight positions in the standings, putting him just outside the coveted 16-team playoff cutoff. He currently sits a mere 13 points behind Ryan Preece for the final playoff spot, with several road course events—races in which he typically excels—remaining on the schedule. This position keeps his playoff ambitions very much alive as the season progresses.
Market Significance and Veteran Presence
At 43 years old, Allmendinger’s return to Kaulig Racing not only solidifies his ongoing value within the organization but also signals confidence in his sustained competitiveness at the Cup Series level. His consistent showings this season are paving the way for his best stint at the top ranks in years.
The confirmation of his 2026 return further narrows the list of potential free agents in the NASCAR Cup Series, especially after notable names like Kyle Busch and William Byron also secured their own contract extensions earlier in the year, just before the Coca-Cola 600. This stability for Kaulig Racing and Allmendinger reflects broader moves throughout the garage as teams look to solidify their driver rosters ahead of upcoming seasons.
With A.J. Allmendinger secured for 2026, Kaulig Racing’s plans remain on a steady course, offering fans and industry watchers a clear sense of direction as competition intensifies both on the track and within the driver market.