In a major twist for the coming NASCAR season, Tony Stewart is making a high-profile return to the sport as part of Ram’s re-entry into the Craftsman Truck Series with Kaulig Racing at Daytona. Stewart’s NASCAR comeback is grabbing headlines as he takes on a key driving spot, signaling a bold move for both the racing veteran and the organizations involved.
Securing Stewart for Ram’s Truck Series Lineup
This NASCAR season is marked by numerous changes, but none more dramatic than Ram’s decision to field five Ram 1500s with Kaulig Racing in the Craftsman Truck Series. As Kaulig filled three of these driver slots with its regulars and opened another via the new ‘Race For the Seat’ reality competition, speculation swirled about who would claim the final position—until Tony Stewart stepped in.
Kaulig Racing’s CEO Chris Rice elaborated on how Stewart came to occupy this coveted seat during a recent appearance on NASCAR’s SiriusXM Radio. Rice explained that even though Stewart had announced his retirement from NASCAR, he remained deeply involved in the broader racing circuit, particularly with NHRA. This ongoing engagement meant Stewart had an established relationship with Stellantis—the parent company of Ram and Dodge.
According to Rice, the partnership between Kaulig Racing and Ram was ambitious from the outset, with the aim of running five trucks despite the logistical challenges. He commended Matt Kaulig, Tim Kuniskis, and himself for embracing the opportunity. When it came to selecting the right driver, both Kaulig and Kuniskis sought to secure a recognizable and highly respected name, zeroing in on Stewart.
Rice noted that much of the effort to bring Stewart on board came from Kuniskis and the Ram team, with Kaulig Racing’s involvement ramping up near the conclusion of negotiations.
“We [Rice and Kaulig] weren’t involved much in those conversations. We were involved at the 11th hour to get him over the top,”
Chris Rice, CEO, said.
The Impact of Stewart’s High-Profile Return
Rice emphasized that the dual return of both Ram as a manufacturer and Stewart as a driver to the Truck Series represents a significant milestone for NASCAR this year. The anticipation among fans and participants alike is evident, especially given the legacy of both brands and personalities involved. Rice added,
“I’m pumped to spend some time with Tony and talk to him about running his own program.”
Chris Rice, CEO.
Tony Stewart, reflecting on his motivation to return, pointed to the unique opportunity the Truck Series presented at Daytona, a track where he has extensive but incomplete experience. Stewart explained his enthusiasm for Ram’s Free Agent program and why he couldn’t turn down this chance.
“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. Ram’s Free Agent program is another great way for me to stay sharp and have a little fun.”
Tony Stewart, Driver.
With Stewart’s return after a lengthy break, fans are eager to witness the celebrated driver—known throughout motorsport as ‘Smoke’—back in action, this time representing Ram in one of NASCAR’s most challenging categories. The collaboration unites key industry entities including Tony Stewart, Ram, Kaulig Racing, Stellantis, and the larger NASCAR landscape, infusing the season with intense energy and substantial expectations. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Daytona to see how Stewart’s comeback plays out and what it might signal for the future of NASCAR’s Truck Series and its iconic drivers.
💨 "That's a big deal for the sport." @KauligRacing CEO @C_Rice1 explained how @TonyStewart landed in a @Kaulig_Trucks ride for the season opener at Daytona.
More ➡️ : https://t.co/MKhd9eLpQA pic.twitter.com/2GXhr7OTCu
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) January 14, 2026
Tony Stewart is returning to NASCAR, driving the No. 25 truck for Kaulig Racing at Daytona.https://t.co/Ywbnp0Tvtn
— Jayski (@jayski) January 13, 2026
