Kaulig Racing is set to find its next NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver through a newly announced reality competition, as part of a partnership with Ram Trucks and Thrill Sports Productions. The show, centered around the Kaulig Racing reality competition, marks a shift from traditional recruitment methods by awarding a full-time 2026 Truck Series seat to the winner.
Unconventional Path to the Truck Series
While NASCAR teams often select up-and-coming talent from ARCA, Late Models, and dirt tracks, Ram Trucks has charted a different course. On Friday, the organization revealed it would fill the final seat out of five Kaulig Racing truck entries by staging an eight-episode reality TV contest. This series aims to spotlight drivers whose heart, attitude, and determination set them apart, with the victor embodying Kaulig’s so-called ‘Last Tenth’ culture of effort and excellence.
The other four trucks already have assigned drivers: Brendan Queen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley have been tapped for full-time efforts, while the fourth vehicle remains a rotating “free agent” entry, featuring drivers from diverse motorsports backgrounds in each event.
Show Format and Key Dates
Race for the Seat features 15 aspiring drivers who will compete in 10 challenges across several venues. The action will unfold at notable tracks including Virginia International Raceway and South Boston Speedway, as each competitor vyes for a spot in the national spotlight. The show’s premiere is set for Sunday, January 25 at noon Eastern Time on FOX, with subsequent episodes streaming on RAM’s YouTube channel from January 26 through February 6, and a simulcast available on FOX Sports 1.
“Ram and Kaulig Racing have confirmed the reality competition that will determine the driver of its final entry in the Craftsman Truck Series this year. The show will premiere on January 25. Details:https://t.co/88VHUEfRVS” — Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall)
A Diverse and Talented Cast
Among the announced lineup are drivers with notable successes in the modified racing world. Mike Christopher Jr., a standout from Wolcott with experience in the SK Modified division at Stafford Speedway and a recent Truck Series debut at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, will take part. Austin Beers joins the cast as a 2025 Whelen Modified Tour champion from Northampton, Pennsylvania, bringing credentials from KLM Motorsports and series including Monaco Modified Tri-Track and the Race of Champions Modified Series.
Behind-the-Scenes Leadership
The show raises its profile with UFC President and CEO Dana White joining as executive producer, offering behind-the-scenes insights alongside appearances by Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis and Kaulig Racing owner Matt Kaulig. Their presence on the program points toward a mix of executive guidance, motorsport strategy, and high-profile analysis for viewers and competitors alike.
What’s at Stake for the Competitors
The winner, selected from a pool of 15 hopefuls after facing an array of challenges, will earn a full-time ride in the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 14 RAM 1500 for Kaulig Racing. According to event organizers, the selection will be based not just on driving skill, but heart, hustle, and the ability to thrive under pressure in a televised, competitive setting.
Industry Impact and Anticipated Reception
Though the effectiveness of this talent search remains to be seen, it has already generated buzz within the racing world and among viewers. As national audiences tune in, attention will focus not only on the drama of the contest but also on how this reality TV approach to recruitment might influence future motorsports talent pipelines. For now, Kaulig Racing’s new reality competition is positioned to capture both fan interest and industry scrutiny as the search for the next breakout star begins.
Ram and Kaulig Racing have confirmed the reality competition that will determine the driver of its final entry in the Craftsman Truck Series this year. The show will premiere on January 25. Details:https://t.co/88VHUEfRVS
— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) January 9, 2026
