On August 23, it was confirmed that the Craftsman Truck Series will see a fresh collaboration in 2026, as Ram Trucks, a division related to Dodge, partners with Kaulig Racing for NASCAR competition. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Kaulig Racing advice was recently shared, highlighting the unique chance this partnership gives emerging talent aiming for NASCAR’s top ranks.
Kaulig Racing and Ram Trucks plan to compete with five trucks next season, opening significant doors for aspiring drivers. Dale Earnhardt Jr., a respected voice in the sport, discussed these new opportunities during his latest Dale Jr. Download podcast, emphasizing that these seats could serve as a fast track to the upper tiers of NASCAR.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Perspective on New Opportunities
Earnhardt Jr. made it clear that he views the five new seats with Kaulig Racing and Ram Trucks as some of the best breakouts in recent memory for up-and-coming drivers. He mentioned that if he were given the responsibility of filling those seats, he would reach out to all promising youngsters in the Xfinity Series. In addition, he would scan the CARS Tour and other regional events for standout drivers, ensuring a broad mix of backgrounds and experiences on the roster.
He also stressed the value of balancing the lineup between seasoned veterans and energetic grassroots talents.
“You bring in some grassroots young guy that needs that opportunity that everybody would be excited about, and you kind of have a mix in between.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
This approach, according to Earnhardt, could help the team rapidly build expertise and chemistry, while also giving young stars a real chance to make their mark.
The Pathway to the Top Series
From Earnhardt Jr.’s viewpoint, young drivers should see these Kaulig-Ram rides as a direct pipeline to the premier Cup Series. He noted that Dodge, which is closely linked to Ram, is rumored to be returning to the Cup Series, increasing the importance of this opportunity.
Drivers who perform well with Ram in the Craftsman Truck Series may have a clear path to Dodge’s Cup Series program. This straightforward progression is something that isn’t currently available with other teams, including JR Motorsports, where the leap often requires complicated team and manufacturer changes.
To illustrate these challenges, Earnhardt referenced the recent career of Josh Berry, who moved from driving at JR Motorsports to Stewart-Haas Racing, and then to Wood Brothers Racing. Berry’s switch from Chevrolet to Ford spotlighted the hurdles that many drivers face when advancing up the NASCAR ranks.
According to Earnhardt, joining Kaulig Racing’s new effort could simplify the path to the sport’s elite division.
“Dodge is going to be a Cup Series team in the next year or two. If you jump in one of their five trucks and you go out there and win races, you have firmly supplanted yourself as their future. They can’t deny it.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of the Kaulig-Ram Alliance
If Earnhardt Jr. were starting his career today, he stated he would be eager to make an impression in front of the leaders at Kaulig Racing. The pending partnership presents an unmatched moment for five drivers to become the first wave benefiting from the Kaulig-Ram alliance’s ambitions.
With NASCAR awaiting Dodge’s official return and Kaulig Racing growing its competitive field, all eyes are on which young and veteran drivers will seize the moment. The fusion of experienced guidance and raw potential on the team could set a strong foundation for future Cup Series contenders, reshaping career trajectories and manufacturer allegiances across the sport.
