Kaulig Racing has announced that Justin Haley will make his return to the team, taking on a full-time drive in the Kaulig Racing NASCAR Truck Series starting in 2026. This move marks Haley’s return to a team where he previously competed in both the Xfinity and Cup Series, further strengthening Kaulig Racing’s presence in the Truck Series.
Team’s Strategic Shift and Driver Lineup Expansion
Alongside Justin Haley, Daniel Dye is also set to join Kaulig Racing in the Truck Series next season, marking an expansion of the team’s operations. Kaulig Racing will field five RAM trucks on a full-time basis, with Haley, Dye, and Brenden Queen confirmed as three of the drivers. The identities of the drivers for the remaining two trucks are yet to be announced. This strategic expansion comes as Kaulig suspends its Xfinity Series program, a move confirmed by CEO Chris Rice on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, in order to focus resources on the Cup and Truck Series campaigns.
Justin Haley and Daniel Dye Strengthen Kaulig’s Lineup
Justin Haley brings significant experience to the team, having driven for Kaulig’s Xfinity team from 2019 through 2021 and competing in the Cup Series for Kaulig during 2022 and 2023. This year, Haley has been driving in the Cup Series for Spire Motorsports, but it was previously confirmed he would not be returning there after this season.
Daniel Dye is wrapping up his first full year competing with Kaulig Racing in the Xfinity Series. With his move to the Truck Series, Dye is set to continue building his career alongside Haley and Queen, contributing to Kaulig’s goal of fielding a competitive RAM truck lineup.
Leadership and Drivers React to New Developments
Team figures expressed clear enthusiasm about the new driver announcements and the team’s partnership with RAM Trucks.
“We’re thrilled to announce these two talented young drivers in the Kaulig RAM 1500 trucks,”
said team owner Matt Kaulig.
“Justin is an important part of our past, and I’m thrilled that he is returning to be a part of our very bright future. Daniel grew up in the RAM family, so it is super cool that he gets to represent RAM in their return to NASCAR. Both drivers have great stories to tell that align and represent what we are building here at Kaulig Racing.”
– Matt Kaulig, Team Owner
“Proud to announce I’m returning to @KauligRacing, this time with @Kaulig_Trucks! It’s hard to put into words what this means. This team believed in me from the very beginning, and to come full circle with people like Chris Rice and @MattKaulig, who have always supported me like… https://t.co/f1dMcY7eFi”
– Justin Haley, Driver
Looking Ahead: Impact on the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
Kaulig Racing’s decision to intensify its focus on the Kaulig Racing NASCAR Truck Series signals confidence in its roster and operational capabilities, with experienced drivers like Justin Haley and emerging talent Daniel Dye joining Brenden Queen in a strengthened lineup. As the team prepares to roll out five RAM trucks and pauses its Xfinity program, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series can expect heightened competition and increased interest from fans who will be watching to see how these changes unfold in the coming season.
Proud to announce I’m returning to @KauligRacing, this time with @Kaulig_Trucks! It’s hard to put into words what this means. This team believed in me from the very beginning, and to come full circle with people like Chris Rice and @MattKaulig, who have always supported me like… https://t.co/f1dMcY7eFi
— Justin Haley (@Justin_Haley_) October 29, 2025
