Kaulig Racing has confirmed that it will withdraw from the NASCAR O’Reilly Series starting with the 2026 season, shifting its resources and focus to other racing programs. This Kaulig Racing O’Reilly Series exit comes as the team plans to dedicate its efforts to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in partnership with RAM.
Team Stepping Away from O’Reilly Series Competition
When the 2026 season begins for the NASCAR O’Reilly Series, which will be rebranded from its former identity as the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Kaulig Racing will not field a team on the starting grid. According to Jayski’s report on October 28, the organization will halt its O’Reilly operations for now, marking a significant change in its NASCAR strategy.
Over the past decade, Kaulig Racing established itself as a consistent competitor in the O’Reilly Series. The team made its NASCAR debut in 2016 with Blake Koch behind the wheel and quickly transformed into a multi-car operation with championship potential. Kaulig Racing notched 27 wins over 10 seasons and earned appearances in the Championship 4 on three occasions. They also picked up two regular-season championships during this period.
“Thank you to the Xfinity Series for 10 amazing years, 27 wins, two regular season championships, and a lifetime of memories! pic.twitter.com/CNzIliZ0Ij”— Kaulig Racing (@KauligRacing)
Refocusing on Craftsman Truck Series with New Partners and Drivers
The organization will now pivot to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, relocating its resources and experience into a new partnership with RAM. Plans are already in place for five full-time trucks to race next season, and current Kaulig driver Brendan ‘Butterbean’ Queen is set to remain part of the team’s lineup heading into this new chapter.
Recent Team Lineup Changes and Uncertain Future
Throughout the 2025 season, Kaulig Racing fielded three entries. Drivers Christian Eckes, Daniel Dye, and Josh Williams represented the squad; however, Williams departed three months ago and was succeeded by Queen and other rotating drivers. Eckes and Dye failed to make the playoffs, and according to recent reports, Dye is likely to continue with Kaulig Racing in some capacity. The prospect of fielding O’Reilly or Cup Series teams could return if Dodge re-enters those NASCAR series, suggesting the possibility of future changes for the team.
Impact and What Lies Ahead
Kaulig Racing’s decision to exit the O’Reilly Series signals a turning point after a notable tenure that brought competitive success and multiple championships. With the shift toward the Craftsman Truck Series in alliance with RAM and a refreshed driver lineup featuring Brendan Queen, the team is positioned for a new phase of competition. The move also leaves the door open for a return to NASCAR’s upper levels, depending on series developments and manufacturer involvement in the coming years.
Thank you to the Xfinity Series for 10 amazing years, 27 wins, two regular season championships, and a lifetime of memories! pic.twitter.com/CNzIliZ0Ij
— Kaulig Racing (@KauligRacing) October 28, 2025
