In a highly anticipated moment for motorsports fans, Tony Stewart NASCAR return takes shape as the legendary driver will pilot a Kaulig Racing RAM truck during Daytona Speedweeks on February 13. Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hall of Famer, will compete in the Fresh from Florida 250, marking his first NASCAR race since 2016 and his first CRAFTSMAN Truck Series appearance since 2005.
Stewart’s Comeback to NASCAR’s Truck Series
Kaulig Racing’s announcement brings Tony Stewart, famed for his racing prowess, back to Daytona International Speedway. After retiring from full-time competition following the 2016 NASCAR Cup Series finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Stewart shifted his focus to team ownership and to competing as a championship contender in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Now, at 54, Stewart returns to the iconic venue with a new challenge: racing a RAM truck for the event’s season opener, which will air on FS1, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio at 7:30 p.m. ET.
The excitement surrounding Stewart’s participation is heightened by his history at Daytona. With 19 victories spanning NASCAR’s Cup Series, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the International Race of Champions, his resume includes a significant legacy at the track, even though he has never previously raced a truck there.
“I’ve raced just about everything with four wheels at Daytona, but never a truck, so when a seat in the new RAM was offered up for their first race back in NASCAR, I didn’t hesitate,”
said Tony Stewart, legendary driver and NASCAR Hall of Famer.
RAM’s Free Agent Program Unveils New Drivers
Stewart’s entry into the Kaulig Racing stable is the first in RAM’s revamped Free Agent program, which welcomes a rotating lineup of high-profile drivers for select races. This new initiative allows notable names to drive one of five Kaulig Racing RAM trucks in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series throughout the year. The team is also launching the “Race for the Seat” program, where another coveted ride will go to its competition’s winner, while Brendan “Butterbean” McQueen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley will race RAM trucks full time for Kaulig Racing starting in 2026.
“RAM’s Free Agent program is another great way for me to stay sharp and have a little fun.”
– Tony Stewart, driver and team owner.
Kaulig Racing owner and founder Matt Kaulig shared his excitement over Stewart’s involvement with the team for this pivotal race in Daytona’s legendary setting.
“Having Tony Stewart in one of our RAM trucks is the kind of thing you dream about,”
said Matt Kaulig, owner and founder of Kaulig Racing.
“He’s a legend—his name alone brings energy to the sport. We couldn’t be more fired up to have him in our camp as we roll into Daytona for our first race. This is going to be a ride worth watching.”
– Matt Kaulig, owner and founder of Kaulig Racing.
Stewart’s Record and the Anticipation for Daytona
Despite a short tenure in the Truck Series, Stewart has found considerable success, securing victories at Richmond, Virginia, in 2002 and 2003 with only six starts. His most recent Truck Series race saw him claim second place at Dover in 2005, emphasizing his competitiveness across multiple racing divisions.
Tim Kuniskis, representing Stellantis as Head of American Brands, SRT Performance, NA Marketing and Retail Strategy, commented on the impact of Stewart’s return and the goals for RAM’s Free Agent initiative.
“We’re not just returning to the track; we’re rewriting the playbook,”
said Tim Kuniskis, Head of American Brands, SRT Performance, NA Marketing and Retail Strategy at Stellantis.
“This is about honoring a legacy. Tony represents grit, determination, and the spirit of racing—pure adrenaline for the fans.”
– Tim Kuniskis, Stellantis.
What Lies Ahead for Stewart and Kaulig Racing
Daytona’s CRAFTSMAN Truck Series activities are set to begin with a 50-minute practice session on Thursday, February 12, followed by Stewart’s much-awaited return to the NASCAR grid the next evening. As anticipation builds, the collaboration between Tony Stewart, Kaulig Racing, and RAM is poised to electrify the event. With Stewart’s storied record at Daytona and his status among the all-time greats, this return not only honors his racing legacy but injects new excitement into the NASCAR season opener. Fans, teams, and the motorsports community are eagerly awaiting what may become one of the most memorable races of the year.
