The world of NASCAR lit up with excitement as Tony Stewart, a three-time Cup Series champion, announced his return to racing in the season-opening NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event at Daytona International Speedway on February 13. Stewart’s comeback will see him join Kaulig Racing behind the wheel of a Ram truck, reigniting enthusiasm among racing fans and making the Tony Stewart NASCAR return an instant headline.
Stewart’s Comeback Ushers in Ram’s Bold New Chapter
The announcement spotlights Stewart, known affectionately as “Smoke,” as the first entry in Ram Trucks’ new Free Agent Program, a platform designed to feature renowned veterans and up-and-coming drivers through the 2026 season. Stewart’s decision to accept the offer adds another highlight to his already storied career—a move that completes a missing chapter from his vast racing accomplishments.
“I’ve raced just about everything with four wheels at Daytona, but never a truck,”
Tony Stewart said.
“So when a seat in the new Ram was offered up for their first race back in NASCAR, I didn’t hesitate.”
– Tony Stewart, Three-time Cup Series Champion
By securing Stewart, Ram’s return to NASCAR after a thirteen-year absence is nothing short of headline-making. The partnership is more than just a comeback strategy—it’s a signal of intent to become a major force in the series, especially with Stellantis executive Tim Kuniskis underscoring its significance.
“We’re not just returning to the track; we’re rewriting the playbook. Bringing Tony in as the first Free Agent will generate a crazy amount of excitement, which is exactly why we created the program.”
– Tim Kuniskis, Stellantis
Stewart’s reputation for versatility spans across USAC, IndyCar, and NASCAR championships, making him a beloved figure among fans and a respected competitor in the paddock. For Ram and Kaulig Racing, bringing Stewart in is a statement of ambition and a magnet for attention both on and off the track.
For Kaulig Racing, the partnership is equally exhilarating.
“Having Tony Stewart in one of our Ram trucks is the kind of thing you dream about,”
team owner Matt Kaulig said.
“He’s a legend—his name alone brings energy to the sport.”
– Matt Kaulig, Team Owner, Kaulig Racing
Daytona: The Perfect Stage for Stewart’s Return
Few venues are more synonymous with Stewart’s legacy than Daytona International Speedway. The Indiana native has etched his name into the track’s history, racking up nineteen victories across Cup, Xfinity, and IROC events at the iconic World Center of Racing. Daytona’s pack racing and drafting dynamics are tailor-made for Stewart’s racing instincts, honed through years of mastering superspeedways.
Even after stepping away from full-time NASCAR racing in 2016, Stewart continued to showcase his unmatched talent, most recently capturing the 2025 NHRA Top Fuel Regular Season championship—a testament to his ever-present competitive drive and sharp instincts behind the wheel.
With Ram unleashing their highly anticipated return and Stewart making his national series comeback at Daytona, the February 13 season opener is shaping up as an unmissable showdown. The combination promises to draw a massive audience, bolstering NASCAR’s season debut with both star power and a surge of media buzz.
NASCAR, Ram Trucks, and Kaulig Racing all benefit from having Stewart back in the spotlight, reminding both seasoned fans and newcomers of the thrill and drama that only racing legends can provide. As the green flag drops, all eyes will be on Stewart and Ram, eager to see if this celebrated driver’s NASCAR return can spark fresh triumphs and inspire a new wave of motorsports excitement.
