Kaulig Racing is reportedly in discussions about a potential Kaulig Racing Ram NASCAR partnership, with President Chris Rice confirming conversations between the team and Ram Trucks as the automaker prepares to enter the NASCAR Craftsman <a href="https://slicksandsticks.com/category/news/truck-series/”>Truck Series in 2026. These talks could mark a significant shift in the manufacturer landscape, as Kaulig Racing emerges as a possible team to align with Ram, according to increasing industry speculation.
Growing Momentum for Ram’s Entry into NASCAR
Ram Trucks, part of Stellantis, has planned its NASCAR debut by joining the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026. Following this initial step, the global automaker is reportedly considering expanding its presence, potentially reaching the Cup Series as early as 2027. The company‘s official announcement came in June, indicating ongoing efforts to form team relationships before making a full-scale entry.
Kaulig Racing‘s connection with Ram has been frequently discussed among industry executives, especially since Rice gave interviews with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio in which he did not deny Kaulig’s discussions with Ram. The speculation has intensified, with several rivals pointing to Kaulig as a strong candidate for a partnership with Stellantis when the time comes for Ram’s step up in the NASCAR tiers.
Strategic Options for Kaulig Racing
According to a source familiar with the situation, Kaulig Racing is evaluating the possibility of establishing a Truck Series team in 2025 alongside Ram. At the same time, the team would continue its current Xfinity and Truck programs with Chevrolet. This approach would allow Kaulig to maintain relationships with both manufacturers during a transitional period.
However, with Stellantis not yet set to compete in NASCAR‘s upper echelons, any potential Cup or Xfinity collaboration with Ram in 2026 would depend on receiving approval from existing manufacturers like Chevrolet, Ford, or Toyota. This requirement adds a layer of complexity to any premature moves involving top-level series partnerships.
Industry Impact and Next Steps
The growing attention around Kaulig Racing‘s prospective deal with Ram Trucks underscores the shifting landscape in NASCAR‘s manufacturer alliances. Should Kaulig become one of the first teams to work with Stellantis, it could pave the way for more teams to follow as Ram cements its position in top-tier NASCAR competition. Developments in these talks are being closely watched by other teams, manufacturers, and fans, as any finalized agreement has the potential to reshape strategic partnerships within the sport.
