Brenden “Butterbean” Queen will race full-time for Kaulig Trucks and Ram in the highly anticipated NASCAR Truck Series 2026 season, as confirmed today in a move that marks Stellantis’s renewed automotive push in NASCAR. The announcement, made by Kaulig Racing, places Queen—fresh off an ARCA Menards Series championship—at the heart of Ram Trucks’ ambitious comeback to the sport.
Queen Chosen as New Face of Ram’s Truck Series Return
Kaulig Racing has selected Butterbean Queen as its first full-time driver for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, partnering him with the rejuvenated Ram Trucks brand. The announcement came after Queen clinched the 2025 ARCA Menards Series championship and wrapped up his stint in the No. 11 Chevy during the Xfinity Series season. His transition to Ram Trucks is seen as a strategic match for both his gritty, blue-collar racing style and Ram’s aim to reconnect with grassroots fans.
Ram’s Comeback and Stellantis’ Broader NASCAR Strategy
With Stellantis steering its re-entry into stock car racing under the Ram banner, the manufacturer is showing an intent to build a robust presence in the NASCAR Truck Series 2026. Sources note that Ram is financially backing the Kaulig Trucks team extensively, preferring driver talent over sponsorship dollars. This places added emphasis on Queen’s capabilities after he secured eight victories in the ARCA Menards Series season, reinforcing the organization’s faith in his abilities to represent the brand’s return.
Kaulig and Dodge’s Bigger NASCAR Aspirations
The move also signals longer-term ambitions for both Queen and the organization. With Ram’s involvement now confirmed, speculation is intensifying around Kaulig Racing’s hopes to become Dodge’s premiere partner in a future Dodge Cup Series team—potentially by 2027 or 2028. This aligns with Queen’s trajectory and Kaulig Racing’s reputation as a talent-driven NASCAR operation aiming to anchor Stellantis and Dodge’s plans in top-level racing.
Reaction and Industry Impact
“We’ve got our first! Brenden Queen has been named Kaulig Racing’s first full-time @RamTrucks driver for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season! pic.twitter.com/mddyYTOqeh”
—Kaulig Trucks (@Kaulig_Trucks)
The choice of Butterbean Queen highlights Ram and Kaulig’s focus on genuine racing talent over commercial backing. Unlike some drivers, Queen’s success has come from his skill rather than deep financial resources, making his selection a testament to the team’s competitive priorities. Both Stellantis and Kaulig Racing believe that Queen, at 27 and with a proven record in the ARCA Menards Series and CARS Tour, brings valuable experience to this rebuilding effort.
Inside the Team’s Expectations and Rivalries Ahead
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, fans are eager to see Queen’s performance in the Truck Series, especially with drivers like Layne Riggs expected to compete. The upcoming season will also see other shifts, such as Corey Heim reportedly leaving his full-time seat at Tricon Garage, leaving space for new rivalries and storylines. Queen’s ability to guide Kaulig’s Truck effort is seen as a significant asset as the organization aims to shape itself into a top contender with support from Ram and Stellantis.
The Road to Daytona and Beyond
With the Daytona opener looming, the union of Butterbean Queen, Kaulig Trucks, and Ram injects fresh energy and anticipation into the NASCAR Truck Series 2026. Fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching Queen’s adaptation and results as Ram bets on talent and loyalty to drive its brand resurgence throughout the season and possibly pave the way for future Dodge-branded teams in the NASCAR Cup Series.
We’ve got our first! 😏
Brenden Queen has been named Kaulig Racing’s first full-time @RamTrucks driver for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season! pic.twitter.com/mddyYTOqeh
— Kaulig Trucks (@Kaulig_Trucks) October 16, 2025
