Kevin Harvick has hinted at a possible NASCAR comeback, sparking excitement among fans after Hall of Fame driver Tony Stewart revealed he will race again in the 2026 Daytona Craftsman Truck Series. The idea of a Kevin Harvick NASCAR comeback gained momentum following these recent announcements and speculation on his own podcast.
Harvick Considers a Return After Stewart’s Big News
NASCAR fans were already buzzing about the sport’s evolving Chase format, but excitement intensified when Tony Stewart confirmed he will compete at Daytona with Kaulig Racing’s RAM entry. This development appears to have encouraged Kevin Harvick, Stewart’s longtime friend and former Cup champion, to consider stepping back into racing after his retirement at the end of the 2023 season.
During a recent episode of his podcast, Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, Harvick openly joked about the prospect of hitting the track again.
“I might just make a comeback, why not? Tony Stewart’s going to drive the truck race at Daytona. Why not? What should we race?”
— Kevin Harvick, Champion Driver
Harvick further explained his thoughts on returning, fueled by competitive instincts:
“I’m starting to get the bug again, I think. Cup is too much work. What could I just get in and drive?”
— Kevin Harvick, Champion Driver
Kenny Wallace Weighs In on Harvick’s Potential Comeback
NASCAR veteran and commentator Kenny Wallace discussed Harvick’s potential plans on his own podcast, saying the move seems not only possible but likely, noting that Harvick has the support and resources needed for a successful return.
“I think you’re going to see Kevin Harvick run either in an O’Reilly Auto Parts race. I could see him driving a car for a Dale Jr. I’m sure there’d be some other team out there, but Kevin and his CEO of Harvick Management. Josh Jones… is the king at getting sponsors. Harvick management controls a lot of superstars… Hell, they could be in rodeo. So Harvick is just staying relevant, something to do.”
— Kenny Wallace, NASCAR Commentator
Recent Racing History and What’s Next for Harvick
Harvick, who recently turned 50, last competed in the Cup Series at the 2023 Phoenix Raceway finale, where he placed seventh. He last participated in the Xfinity Series in 2021, driving the No. 99 B.J. McLeod Motorsports Ford at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and finished 33rd. His most recent Craftsman Truck Series race was with David Gilliland Racing on Bristol’s dirt, finishing 15th in the No. 17 Ford.
Despite publicly floating the idea on his podcast, Harvick has not officially committed to any team or event. Yet, industry figures such as Dale Jr. and sponsor pros like Josh Jones are often mentioned as likely partners, illustrating how easily he could secure a competitive ride and the commercial backing necessary in today’s NASCAR environment.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation Builds
With Tony Stewart confirmed for the Truck Series in 2026, the possibility of Harvick joining stirs considerable anticipation within the NASCAR community. As Harvick’s podcast musings continue to circulate, fans are closely watching for any definite plans, eager to see if the former No. 4 driver will suit up once more. With high-profile allies like Kenny Wallace and robust support through Harvick Management, an official announcement could arrive at any time, bringing one of NASCAR’s most popular and accomplished drivers back into the spotlight.
“Coffee with Kenny”
I think @KevinHarvick is gonna come back and race in @NASCAR 😳
And more! pic.twitter.com/OQWc6fNH2o— Kenny Wallace (@Kenny_Wallace) January 31, 2026
