AJ Allmendinger’s remarkable journey to his 100th NASCAR Cup start with Kaulig Racing highlights a rare AJ Allmendinger NASCAR comeback story marked by grit, resilience, and determination. As he prepares to compete at Richmond Raceway this weekend, his career resurgence inspires fans and racing insiders alike, spotlighting the incredible path he has traveled both on and off the track.
From Early Racing Roots to Professional Debut
Allmendinger, originally from Santa Clara, California, started his competitive journey on dirt tracks, BMX courses, and kart circuits, breaking away from the conventional progression seen in NASCAR. At just five years old, he was already racing BMX bikes. By eight, he transitioned to quarter midget cars and quickly made his mark, capturing two International Kart Federation Grand National championships.
His entry into NASCAR’s top tiers came in 2006 when he joined Bill Davis Racing for the Craftsman Truck Series. Within the same year, he became part of Red Bull Racing’s Cup Series debut, further expanding his experience by driving for organizations such as Richard Petty Motorsports, Penske Racing, Phoenix Racing, and JTG Daugherty Racing. This spectrum of teams displayed the broad scope of his professional development and adaptability as a driver.
Overcoming Career Setbacks and Suspension
Though Allmendinger achieved early popularity, his career faced serious challenges, especially during his time with Team Penske. In 2012, his ascent took a devastating turn when he was suspended after violating NASCAR’s substance abuse policy. Suddenly, one of the sport’s rising stars found himself not only out of a top seat but also fighting to salvage his reputation and future in racing.
His resilience was tested yet again in 2019, when JTG replaced him with Ryan Preece. This change seemed to end his full-time Cup Series presence, leading him to a new role as a part-time driver with Kaulig Racing in the Xfinity Series and as a television analyst for NBC, where he began to redefine his future beyond driving.
“It’s really strange because when I was done at the end of 2018, I didn’t know what to expect or what I actually wanted. It wasn’t like I ended that year saying, ‘I need to find another opportunity.’ I did the deal with NBC Sports to do broadcasting and commentating, and I thought that’s my next path in life,” AJ Allmendinger said in 2022. —AJ Allmendinger, Driver
Triumphant Return with Kaulig Racing
In a sport where few drivers return after stepping away, Allmendinger’s decision to come back stands out. His story is unique not only because he shifted from racing to commentating and then back, but also because he has achieved new victories since returning. Rejoining Kaulig Racing full-time in 2023, he steadily rebuilt his reputation and career. As a three-time NASCAR Cup Series winner, he added 12 more victories in 77 Xfinity Series races and captured two Cup wins in 2021 and 2023.
Allmendinger’s ability to transition seamlessly between roles is rare in NASCAR history. He has succeeded as a national broadcaster and then returned to the track to claim significant victories, proving his determination and exceptional skill.
Making NASCAR History at Richmond Raceway
This weekend marks a significant milestone, as Allmendinger is set to make his 100th NASCAR Cup start with Kaulig Racing at Richmond Raceway, a 0.75-mile oval in Virginia. In 26 previous Richmond appearances, he has earned three top-10 finishes, with his strongest start being third place and his best finish sixth, achieved in 2016.
Kaulig Racing as a team has also demonstrated impressive improvements, as their average finish over the first 24 races of the 2025 season is more than two positions better than the previous year at the same stage. In addition, Allmendinger currently holds the 20th position in the playoff standings, trailing the cutoff by 129 points as the Cook Out 400 approaches on August 16.
Allmendinger’s Legacy and What Lies Ahead
AJ Allmendinger’s journey from BMX tracks in California to achieving 100 Cup starts with Kaulig Racing exemplifies an unwavering dedication to his sport. Overcoming suspension, setbacks, and time away from the wheel, he has reignited his career and continued to make an impact as both a driver and a broadcaster for NBC and NBC Sports. As the 24th Cup driver of the 2025 season, his story leaves a powerful legacy for upcoming drivers and reminders of the rare second chances offered in professional racing. With the Richmond race on the horizon, fans and teams alike will be watching closely to see how his unparalleled comeback continues to unfold.
