Kaulig Racing will lead the charge as the anchor factory team for Ram’s long-awaited return to NASCAR, marking a milestone moment for both brands. The partnership, which features Kaulig Racing anchors Ram NASCAR return, will debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Daytona International Speedway on February 13, 2026.
Kaulig Racing to Headline Ram’s Return to NASCAR
After more than a decade away, Ram has announced that it will re-enter NASCAR with Kaulig Racing as its primary factory-backed team. Founded ten years ago by Matt Kaulig, an Ohio-based entrepreneur and community leader, Kaulig Racing has quickly grown into a formidable presence in American racing. For the 2026 season, the team plans to field up to five Ram 1500 trucks in the Craftsman Truck Series, reinstating the Ram badge to the series for the first time since 2012.
“This partnership represents far more than a new chapter in Kaulig Racing’s history, it’s a union of shared values,”
—Matt Kaulig, owner of Kaulig Racing
“Over the past decade, our team has built a legacy rooted in performance, integrity, and giving back to the community. To now join forces as the anchor team for Ram’s return to NASCAR is both an honor and a responsibility. Together, we’re ready to set a new standard on race day and in the impact we make off the track.”
—Matt Kaulig, owner of Kaulig Racing
Announcement Unveiled at Major NASCAR Event
The official announcement took place during a live NASCAR event at Michigan International Speedway on June 8. Spectators witnessed a showcase featuring a Ram 5500 and a concept truck designed for dramatic on-track displays, kicking up excitement for what lies ahead. The event signaled a pivotal point for both the Ram brand and Kaulig Racing as they look to the future.
“We needed a partner that truly aligns with the Ram brand and embraces our unconventional approach to NASCAR,”
—Tim Kuniskis, Ram CEO
“With Kaulig Racing, we found the perfect synergy to drive our ’Last Tenth’ culture forward.”
—Tim Kuniskis, Ram CEO
New Era for Kaulig Racing and Ram
This collaboration not only marks Ram’s return but also underscores the achievements of Kaulig Racing over the last decade. Chris Rice, President of Kaulig Racing, acknowledged the team’s progress and the valuable contributions that have helped elevate the team’s standing in the racing world.
“We are proud of what the men and women of Kaulig Racing have accomplished over the past decade,”
—Chris Rice, President of Kaulig Racing
“Special thanks to Ty Norris for his dedication to Kaulig Racing and helping get us to the next level.”
—Chris Rice, President of Kaulig Racing
Presently, Kaulig Racing competes with two chartered entries in the NASCAR Cup Series and three teams in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, amassing 29 wins in the past seven seasons. The 2026 season will see the team channel this experience into the Truck Series, with the driver lineup to be announced closer to the inaugural race.
Looking Ahead to Daytona and Beyond
Kaulig Racing’s debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series with Ram is set for the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway under the lights on February 13, 2026. The event will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1, Motor Racing Network, and SIRIUS XM NASCAR Channel 90, drawing an even wider audience to this new chapter.
This partnership is set to drive both brands to new heights, uniting a legacy of innovation and community with the excitement of Ram’s comeback. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Daytona, where the next era for Kaulig Racing and Ram in NASCAR will begin.
