Kaulig Racing is ending its run in the NASCAR Xfinity Series after a decade of competition, marking a significant transition in the team’s motorsports journey. The Kaulig Racing NASCAR Xfinity Series chapter, which began in 2016, concludes as the organization shifts its focus toward new opportunities in the NASCAR Truck Series together with Ram.
Kaulig Racing’s Decade of NASCAR Xfinity Series Achievements
Since entering the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2016, Kaulig Racing has gradually expanded its operations, achieving considerable success and establishing itself as a competitive team. Over the years, they have not only participated in the Xfinity Series but also made inroads into the Cup Series, accumulating multiple race wins across both divisions.
During their ten-year journey, Kaulig Racing celebrated a total of 27 victories in the Xfinity Series. Their drivers made substantial contributions to this tally, with standout performances at tracks like Daytona and Phoenix. The team also reached as high as third in the final driver standings, proving their capability to challenge top contenders.
Notable Drivers and Memorable Wins
Ross Chastain delivered Kaulig Racing’s inaugural Xfinity Series win at Daytona in 2019. Following that breakthrough, numerous drivers contributed victories for the team, including Justin Haley, Jeb Burton, Chandler Smith, Kyle Larson, Shane van Gisbergen, and A.J. Allmendinger. Allmendinger, in particular, stands out, accounting for 16 of the team’s 27 wins in the Xfinity Series and both of their Cup Series triumphs. His efforts earned him the regular season title twice and helped push Kaulig Racing into the spotlight within the series.
Shifting Focus: New Partnerships and Future Plans
This upcoming transition coincides with the announcement that Kaulig Racing intends to partner with Ram and form a new team for the NASCAR Truck Series in 2026. This collaboration signals the return of Stellantis, the parent company behind Ram, to NASCAR competition after more than ten years away. Together, Kaulig and Ram will establish a factory-backed presence in the Truck Series, with plans to field five entries, broadening the team’s competitive ambitions beyond the Xfinity Series.
Current Season and The Final Xfinity Opportunity
In the current season, Kaulig Racing has been running three full-time cars—the No. 16 with Christian Eckes, the No. 10 piloted by Daniel Dye, and the No. 11 with various drivers. However, despite continued efforts and the team’s “trophy hunting” reputation, they have yet to secure a win this year. Phoenix presents one last chance to claim their 28th Xfinity checkered flag before the program is officially paused.
Legacy and Looking Ahead in the NASCAR Landscape
Kaulig Racing’s decision to close its Xfinity Series chapter highlights the impact the organization has had within NASCAR over the past decade. The team’s collaboration with high-profile drivers like Allmendinger, Ross Chastain, Justin Haley, and others established it as a mainstay in the series. As they shift gears to partner with Ram in the Truck Series, interest surrounds how this new venture will influence the NASCAR scene, especially with Stellantis re-entering factory-backed racing. The motorsport community now watches as Kaulig Racing prepares for the final race in the Xfinity Series and sets its sights on fresh challenges ahead.
