Kaulig Racing has revealed significant growth in its Kaulig Racing NASCAR Truck Series campaign for the 2026 season, adding Daniel Dye and bringing back longtime team member Justin Haley to its NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series roster. Both drivers will drive RAM 1500 entries as the team sets its sights on a strong debut year in the series.
Daniel Dye Returns to RAM Roots with Kaulig Racing
Daniel Dye, who will finish his first complete season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing at Phoenix Raceway in 2025, is heading back to familiar territory by joining the Truck Series squad in 2026. Dye described the move as a full-circle achievement, drawing a direct connection between his childhood and his upcoming role representing RAM in the NASCAR Truck Series.
“Getting to drive for Kaulig Racing in the Truck Series while representing RAM next year is truly special for me,”
said 21-year-old Dye.
Dye reminisced about his childhood, mentioning experiences with RAM vehicles that shaped his affinity with the brand. He emphasized how RAM trucks were central to family routines and milestones, including his very first vehicle.
“Some of my earliest memories are going to and from school and baseball practice in my dad’s RAM pickup, and when it came time for me to get my driver’s license, my first vehicle was a RAM 1500. It’s safe to say RAM has always been a part of my life, so I’m proud to be able to represent them.”
– Daniel Dye
Justin Haley Makes Homecoming with Truck Series Entry
Justin Haley is also making headlines by rejoining Kaulig Racing for the new Truck Series program. Returning after five impactful years with the team, Haley will pilot one of five planned RAM 1500 entries in the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season.
Haley previously competed with Kaulig Racing in the No. 11 NASCAR Xfinity Series entry from 2019 through 2021, where he consistently secured playoff appearances and advanced to the Championship 4 in 2020. His relationship with the team continued when he became Kaulig’s first full-time Cup Series driver through 2024. Upon his return, Haley brings familiarity, experience, and a winning track record.
“It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to race with Kaulig Racing again,”
said Justin Haley.
Haley acknowledged the support of Matt Kaulig throughout his racing journey and shared his enthusiasm for the chance to contribute to the team’s new endeavor in the Truck Series.
“Matt Kaulig believed in me from a very early point in my career, and we’ve shared a lot of success together. It’s a blessing to be back home with Kaulig and help the team forge their way on this new journey in the Truck Series with RAM. I’m excited to be around people who have believed in me from the start, and that will give me all the tools and resources that we need to win races and compete for championships. This is an opportunity I’m very proud to be a part of; our goal is to build a solid foundation early on and use that to get Matt Kaulig and Kaulig Racing their first NASCAR Championship.”
– Justin Haley
Team Strengthens Roster for Debut Truck Series Season
The addition of Daniel Dye and Justin Haley, both experienced and passionate competitors, strengthens Kaulig Racing’s lineup as it enters the Truck Series for the first time. The team owner, Matt Kaulig, commented on the significance of these signings and how they reflect the team’s growth and ambitions for 2026.
“We’re thrilled to announce these two talented young drivers in the Kaulig RAM 1500 trucks,”
said team owner Matt Kaulig.
Kaulig highlighted Haley’s importance to the organization’s history and was enthusiastic about Dye’s journey coming full circle. He credited both drivers for exemplifying the team’s vision and values.
“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
Rising Star Brenden Queen Joins Dynamic Lineup
Alongside Dye and Haley, Kaulig Racing previously announced the signing of Brenden “Butterbean” Queen as a full-time driver. Queen, who recently captured the ARCA Menards Series championship, is recognized for his skill and momentum as an emerging force in American stock car racing. The team’s robust roster demonstrates its intent to be competitive from the outset of its Truck Series campaign.
Looking Ahead at Kaulig Racing’s Ambitions
With a lineup featuring a blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent, Kaulig Racing’s launch into the NASCAR Truck Series with RAM support signals determination and optimism for the 2026 season. The combination of Dye’s return, Haley’s reunion with the team, and Queen’s rising profile positions Kaulig Racing to make a significant impact during its first season in the series. Additional team and driver announcements are anticipated as the organization continues preparations for an ambitious debut year.
