Kaulig Racing delivered an energetic performance at Darlington Raceway, where AJ Allmendinger secured a top-five finish in the Cook Out Southern 500 on Sunday night. The Kaulig Racing Darlington Race Results were driven by teamwork, effective pit strategy, and determined efforts by the No. 16 Black’s Tire Service Camaro ZL1 crew and driver.
Allmendinger’s Steady Climb Through the Field
AJ Allmendinger started the iconic race from 22nd on the grid but quickly encountered challenges with his car’s handling during the opening laps. Working closely with crew chief Trent Owens, the team made several key adjustments to the No. 16 Black’s Tire Service Chevrolet, aiming for better stability and pace as the race progressed. Allmendinger finished Stage 1 in the 17th position, indicating early improvements as the team dialed in the car’s setup.
A critical moment arose during a Stage 2 pit stop, where the pit crew’s efficiency paid off in a dramatic way. The team gained nine positions during the stop, catapulting Allmendinger up to sixth. This significant gain on pit road allowed him to join the leading group, competing solidly among the top seven throughout much of the event.
By the time the checkered flag waved at Darlington, Allmendinger came home in fifth place, matching his best result of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. The consistent speed, calculated strategy, and strong teamwork proved decisive for the Kaulig Racing squad at one of NASCAR’s most demanding tracks. The day’s efforts highlighted the impact of skilled work from every member of the team, including both the pit crew and those guiding the race from the pit box, like Trent Owens.
Driver Reflections on the Darlington Achievement
Following the race, AJ Allmendinger expressed pride and enthusiasm about the team’s achievement at the famously tough Darlington Raceway:
“It feels awesome to get a top-five finish with our No. 16 Black’s Tire Chevrolet. Darlington (Raceway) has owned me, and I’ve worked hard trying to study this place. Our Black’s Tire Chevy was awesome all night. Trent Owens (crew chief) did a phenomenal job on the adjustments. We just kept fighting all race long. I’m constantly trying to learn around this place. My pit crew were absolutely phenomenal and that’s what got us near the front, and then we could just hold the track position. I’m just so proud of everyone on this team. It was a well-executed night all around. It just feels good to get around this place decent and come out with a strong finish.”
—AJ Allmendinger, Driver
Ty Dillon Battles Through a Difficult Night
Teammate Ty Dillon, driving the No. 10 Grizzly Nicotine Pouches Camaro ZL1, took the green flag in 31st position for the crown jewel Darlington event. After a quick start that saw him reach 24th place early on, Dillon’s race was hampered by a slow pit stop in the first stage. The mishap caused him to lose a lap, and long green-flag segments made it difficult to recover. Despite repeated attempts to regain ground, Dillon finished in 34th, capping a tough night for the No. 10 crew.
Significance for Kaulig Racing’s Season
The strong Darlington run by Allmendinger—backed by flawless pit work and persistence—reinforces Kaulig Racing’s position as a competitive force in the NASCAR Cup Series. The result shines a spotlight on the collective determination at Kaulig Racing, with Allmendinger’s fifth place reflecting both his growing mastery of Darlington and the organization’s ability to capitalize on race-day opportunities. As the season continues, eyes will be on Kaulig Racing to see if these improvements translate into even bigger performances in future marquee events.
