Chris Rice is stepping into a bigger role at Kaulig Racing just as the organization prepares for a pivotal 2026 NASCAR season. After nearly a decade helping guide the team from startup to respected Cup and Xfinity contender, Rice now takes the title of Chief Executive Officer. The move comes as Kaulig readies a sweeping new Truck Series effort and navigates the potential return of Ram Trucks to NASCAR competition, a development that could reshape the team’s long-term trajectory.
Key Highlights
- Chris Rice elevated from president to CEO after nearly a decade with Kaulig Racing.
- Matt Kaulig praised Rice’s leadership and dedication in a formal announcement.
- Team plans to field five factory-backed Ram Trucks in the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series.
- Cup Series program continues, but Xfinity presence may shrink to focus on new efforts.
- Ram partnership hints at possible future manufacturer shifts beyond Chevrolet.
Chris Rice’s Rise to the Top
Rice has been at the heart of Kaulig Racing since its formation, becoming one of the most recognizable figures in the garage. Known for his South Boston, Virginia roots and energetic personality, he has overseen the team’s steady climb from a small Xfinity operation to a two-series organization. Matt Kaulig, founder and team owner, detailed how Rice earned this next step.
“Chris Rice is the real deal.”
“From his early days on pit road to President and now CEO of Kaulig Racing, his journey reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion that define his sport.”
“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
Preparing for a Major Truck Series Push
The immediate challenge for Rice is managing Kaulig’s ambitious Truck Series expansion. The team plans to field five brand-new Ram Trucks in 2026, an effort funded largely by the manufacturer. Even though sponsorship isn’t expected to be a hurdle, Rice must coordinate driver selection, marketing strategies, and the operational shift from Chevrolet to Ram branding.
The transition is significant, as it reintroduces the Ram name to NASCAR competition after years away. The five-truck program represents an unprecedented scale for the team and a test of Rice’s ability to balance competition and business priorities.
Impact on NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Operations
While the Truck effort takes center stage, Kaulig’s Cup Series program remains in place. The organization currently relies on ECR/RCR engines and shares facilities with Richard Childress Racing, positioning it as a second- or even third-tier Chevrolet team. Moving resources to Trucks could lead to reduced involvement in Xfinity, though no final decisions have been announced.
This balancing act underscores the importance of Rice’s leadership as Kaulig evaluates where to allocate talent and funding. Success in the Truck Series could influence future decisions about Kaulig’s manufacturer relationships and long-term Cup aspirations.
Manufacturer Implications and Future Outlook
Kaulig’s agreement with Ram Trucks inevitably complicates its Chevrolet ties, but the technical impact is limited. NASCAR Truck engines come from Ilmor, with manufacturer differences mainly in the nose and tail pieces. The real significance lies in potential future opportunities.
If Kaulig thrives with Ram, it could position the team as a leading candidate should Stellantis brands—Dodge or Ram—seek a full Cup Series return in 2027 or later. That possibility raises the stakes for the 2026 campaign and places Rice at the center of Kaulig’s strategic evolution.
News in Brief: Chris Rice Steers Kaulig Racing Toward a Multi-Manufacturer Future
Kaulig Racing promoted Chris Rice to CEO as the team prepares a five-truck Ram-backed entry for the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series. Matt Kaulig praised Rice’s decade-long leadership and confirmed the Cup Series program will continue, though Xfinity participation may decrease. The Ram partnership, with factory funding, marks a shift from Kaulig’s Chevrolet ties but carries minimal immediate technical impact. A strong Truck debut could make Kaulig a frontrunner if Stellantis brands rejoin the Cup Series.
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