Kaulig Racing will pause its NASCAR Xfinity Series efforts starting in the 2026 season to concentrate on developing its five RAM teams for NASCAR’s Craftsman Truck Series, as part of a renewed commitment to the Kaulig Racing RAM Truck Series. The move was detailed by Kaulig Racing President Chris Rice, who spoke candidly about the significant shift and the rationale behind this strategic direction.
Kaulig Racing Prioritizes Next Steps in RAM and Cup Programs
Chris Rice announced on SIRIUS XM NASCAR Radio that Kaulig Racing’s decision to pause their Xfinity Series entry in 2026 is based on an organizational need to strengthen their RAM truck teams and maintain a competitive Cup program.
“We have to focus on our RAM trucks and our Cup program,”
Rice said, emphasizing the organization’s priority shift.
“We really don’t have a choice. We have to make sure that the RAM trucks are where they need to be,”
added Rice, making it clear the decision was not taken lightly.
Closing One Chapter: Reflecting on the Xfinity Series Legacy
Since entering NASCAR’s Xfinity Series in 2016, Kaulig Racing has experienced notable success, accumulating 27 wins, securing 18 pole positions, and achieving 141 top-five and 336 top-ten results in 729 races. Despite these achievements, Rice explained that stepping away, even temporarily, was necessary given current strategic priorities.
Rice elaborated,
“You guys will see us back in the Xfinity Series in the coming years, but we have to pause it for a little bit.”
He further described the emotional aspect of the decision, stating,
“Matt (Kaulig) and I made this decision flying home one day. It’s been some emotions for me over the last month as we made this decision.”
Building Towards RAM’s Truck Series Revival
The transition is fueled in part by speculation involving RAM’s owner, Stellantis, and possible future plans for Dodge’s return to Cup racing, where Kaulig Racing could become a flagship organization for the manufacturer. The truck series program has already begun to take shape, with three drivers named for 2026.
Brenden “Butterbean” Queen, a champion from ARCA, will join Daniel Dye—who has raced for Kaulig in the Xfinity Series this year—and Justin Haley, who previously competed with Kaulig Racing in the Xfinity Series from 2019 to 2021. Two more drivers for Kaulig’s truck series roster are expected to be announced at a future date.
Anticipated Impact and What Lies Ahead
Kaulig Racing’s measured shift from the Xfinity Series to a focus on the Kaulig Racing RAM Truck Series demonstrates the organization’s willingness to evolve with broader NASCAR and manufacturer dynamics. Fans and industry observers will watch closely as the team develops its RAM programs, prepares for the possibility of becoming Stellantis’ lead in a prospective Dodge Cup return, and continues to nurture driving talent like Brenden Queen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley. While the Xfinity pause represents a bittersweet moment, Kaulig’s forward-looking strategy may significantly increase its influence across multiple levels of NASCAR in the years ahead.
