Kaulig Racing Ty Dillon contract negotiations have entered a critical phase, with the team expected to confirm a decision about the driver’s future by the end of the week. After rejoining the NASCAR Cup Series for 2025 in the No. 10 car, Ty Dillon is seeking a contract renewal with Kaulig Racing for the 2026 season, and talks are reportedly progressing rapidly.
Kaulig Racing Considers Extending Dillon’s Time with the Team
Having spent the previous year competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Ty Dillon made his return to the Cup Series and has been steering the No. 10 car for Kaulig Racing this year. Although there was broad speculation that he might struggle to keep up with the pace set by other drivers, Dillon has experienced a season of both challenges and competitive flashes.
This season, Kaulig Racing has been in the spotlight as the team contemplates maintaining its driver lineup for next year, increasing the likelihood that Dillon will stay on board. Team president Chris Rice provided the latest update on where the negotiations currently stand and gave insight into when a final decision can be expected.
“We are still in negotiations. I think by Friday, we will 100% know. We are real close to having Ty’s deal done again for 26′. We feel like he’s done a good job. He’s had some ups and downs, but he hasn’t done what everybody thought he was gonna do, ‘Run around last and be way off the pace’. He’s actually been in contention at some races,” Rice said via SiriusXM radio.
This year, Dillon has emerged as an underdog story, particularly during NASCAR‘s first-ever In-Season challenge. Entering the challenge as the 32nd seed, he managed to progress all the way to the final round at Indianapolis, earning attention for his performance against expectations.
Dillon’s Notable Progress in the In-Season Challenge and Sponsorship with DraftKings
Ty Dillon’s run to the final round of the NASCAR In-Season tournament, which featured sponsorship by DraftKings, further elevated his profile. Following his strong showing in the tournament, Dillon secured a notable sponsorship deal with DraftKings, marking a significant endorsement for both the driver and Kaulig Racing.
Under this new agreement, the DraftKings brand will feature as the primary sponsor on Dillon’s No. 10 car at select Cup Series races, including events in St. Louis and at the Kansas Speedway. The partnership signals faith in Dillon’s growing fan engagement and on-track performance.
“I am passionate about delivering fans the best experience possible, which is why it is so exciting to be working alongside DraftKings. It’s an iconic brand that’s become synonymous with innovation and fan engagement, offering a responsible and entertaining way for fans to get even more invested in the action. I’m proud to have DraftKings on the No. 10 Chevrolet, and honored to have them join us this season,” Dillon said via Toby Christie.
Looking Ahead as Kaulig Racing Decision Looms
Currently ranked 32nd in the NASCAR Cup Series with 355 points to his name this season, Ty Dillon has maintained a determined approach, targeting a strong finish in the final races of the year. The immediate future now hinges on Kaulig Racing’s contract outcome, as anticipation builds toward Friday’s expected update on negotiations.
If the renewal is finalized, Dillon stands poised to build on his status as an ascending driver for Kaulig Racing, continuing partnerships with brands like DraftKings and seeking further milestones at tracks such as Richmond Raceway. The decision in the coming days will help shape the team‘s strategy and Dillon’s momentum heading into the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.
