Kaulig Racing has promoted Chris Rice to Chief Executive Officer, highlighting a significant change in Kaulig Racing leadership promotion as the team prepares for its next chapter. The announcement was made on Thursday, confirming that Rice, a long-serving member of the team, will now lead both competition and business operations.
Chris Rice’s Progression Within Kaulig Racing
Rice’s journey with Kaulig Racing began in 2016 when he took on the role of General Manager during the team’s founding. By 2018, he had advanced to President, a title he held until the recent decision to name him CEO. Over the years, Rice played a key role in securing crucial partnerships, notably with RAM as the team entered the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Rice’s experience in NASCAR dates back several decades, contributing to organizations including Bill Davis Racing, RAB Racing, Jay Robinson Racing, ML Motorsports, and NTS Motorsports. His broad background has made him a respected figure in the industry.
Matt Kaulig’s Praise for Rice’s Leadership
“Chris Rice is the real deal,”
– Matt Kaulig, Founder and Team Owner of Kaulig Racing.
“Chris was with me from the very beginning, helping build Kaulig Racing from the ground up, and his leadership has been instrumental in shaping the culture and success of our team. I’m proud to call him a partner, a leader, and a friend.”
– Matt Kaulig, Founder and Team Owner of Kaulig Racing.
With this promotion, Rice retains his responsibility for both the competitive and business aspects of the organization as he transitions into his role as Chief Executive Officer.
Rice Expresses His Commitment to the Team
“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for Matt’s trust in me,”
– Chris Rice, CEO, Kaulig Racing.
“From day one, our goal has been to create something special here at Kaulig Racing, not just wins on the track, but a culture where people love to come to work every day. With our partnership with RAM and the opportunity to continue grow in 2026, the future has never been brighter for Kaulig Racing.”
– Chris Rice, CEO, Kaulig Racing.
Kaulig Racing and Ram’s Return to NASCAR
Kaulig Racing will anchor Ram’s factory effort as Ram comes back to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026. The team plans to compete with five trucks in the series. Ram last participated in the series in 2012, ending a notable 17-year period that started in 1995. During its earlier run under the Dodge name, Ram celebrated back-to-back series championships in 2004 and 2005 with drivers Bobby Hamilton and Ted Musgrave.
Ram’s involvement is maintained through parent company Stellantis, which continues to build on its international automotive legacy.
Achievements and Future Prospects for Kaulig Racing
Currently, Kaulig Racing competes with two cars in the NASCAR Cup Series and three entries in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Over the span of seven seasons, the team has achieved 29 race victories across these high-profile divisions.
Among these accomplishments, veteran driver A.J. Allmendinger delivered standout performances, claiming Cup Series wins at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2021 and at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s ROVAL course in 2023.
With Rice at the helm as CEO and a renewed partnership with RAM, Kaulig Racing is positioned for continued growth and competition at the top levels of NASCAR. The leadership transition, combined with a strong track record and significant manufacturer backing, sets the stage for new milestones in the team’s racing journey.
