Denny Hamlin reacts to RAM Trucks returning to NASCAR, sharing his belief that the brand’s re-entry is a positive step for the entire sport. RAM Trucks will rejoin NASCAR as a manufacturer in the Truck Series next season, a move expected to shift dynamics among teams and manufacturers.
RAM Trucks Set to Join NASCAR Truck Series
Last week, RAM Trucks revealed their intent to return to NASCAR competition by entering the Truck Series, marking their first appearance in the field in over a decade. The unveiling of the 1500 concept race truck generated significant buzz, signaling that this is not a one-time event. The company’s CEO, Tim Kuniskis, emphasized their broader ambitions for motorsports involvement, stating,
“Our intention is not to do a one-hit wonder and go to Truck and not to Cup. That’s not our plan.”
—Tim Kuniskis, CEO
RAM’s announcement made it clear that they see their Truck Series entry as a strategic first step, rather than an isolated effort. Their long-term approach includes possible expansion into the NASCAR Cup Series, a move that would increase competition and options for teams in the coming years.
Denny Hamlin Outlines The Importance Of A New Manufacturer
Denny Hamlin, both as a prominent Cup Series driver and 23XI Racing co-owner, welcomed RAM’s return, highlighting how the addition of a manufacturer could benefit the existing NASCAR framework. He pointed out the current challenge of resource allocation among teams.
“The burden really falls on the few manufacturers that you have,”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
Hamlin explained that with only three manufacturers supporting 36 Cup teams, those manufacturers must make strategic decisions about where to direct resources, affecting many teams’ competitiveness. He elaborated,
“They have to pick and choose where they spend those resources. The more manufacturers you have, the more money that flows down to the teams that would make the business model somewhat more viable.”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
According to Hamlin, the Truck Series makes sense for RAM’s initial return, offering a straightforward entry thanks to common engines being used among competitors. He added that this reduces the technological and financial burden on manufacturers. He noted it’s a cost-effective way for Dodge to reestablish itself in NASCAR, saying,
“I don’t know that they’ve got to spend a whole lot on setup technology and engineering. It’s a lower price point probably for them to get their feet back into NASCAR and then see how this thing goes and hopefully build it up into the Cup Series.”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
Potential Impact On NASCAR’s Future
RAM’s return is likely to bring increased competition to the Truck Series and, if plans progress, to the Cup Series as well. With more manufacturers in the mix, teams may benefit from greater investments and technological support, creating a more robust and sustainable NASCAR environment. The involvement of iconic companies like Dodge signals renewed interest and might prompt others to join, shaping the long-term future of the sport in Michigan, Mexico City, and beyond.
The upcoming season will reveal how RAM’s presence influences team strategies and the overall business model of NASCAR. Meanwhile, voices like Denny Hamlin and Tim Kuniskis continue to spotlight the significance of attracting new manufacturers and sustaining the sport’s growth.
