Kaulig Racing has announced its lineup of crew chiefs for the upcoming debut season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, with RAM Trucks joining as the team’s new manufacturer partner. The reveal sets the stage for the Daytona International Speedway season-opener, introducing both experienced and fresh faces in key leadership roles for Kaulig’s five-truck operation, all aligned with the focus on Kaulig Racing Truck Series Crew Chiefs.
Kaulig Racing Confirms Five Truck Crew Chief Assignments
The team solidified their five driver and crew chief pairings for the 2026 season, as shared through their official channels:
“Drivers ? Crew Chiefs
We’ve locked in our five 2026 Driver/Crew Chief pairings for our inaugural @RamTrucks season! pic.twitter.com/jrcasxYKFy” — Kaulig Trucks (@Kaulig_Trucks), February 2, 2026
This roster features a combination of internal promotions and notable new additions, integrating proven veterans and emerging talent into the program. The initiative comes at a pivotal time, as Kaulig Racing expands its motorsports presence through a partnership with RAM Trucks and aims to make a strong impression in its first Truck Series campaign.
Spotlight on Individual Crew Chiefs for 2026
Leading the No. 10 RAM 1500, Dan Stillman will serve as crew chief for Daniel Dye, who is entering his third year competing in the Truck Series. Stillman brings a reputation for success across NASCAR’s National Series, including five victories in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series—one with Paul Menard in 2006 and four with Carl Edwards in 2009. He most recently called the shots for Our Motorsports before the team ended operations in the latter part of last season, and now brings his extensive experience to the Kaulig camp.
Eddie Pardue will oversee the No. 12 RAM 1500 as crew chief for Brenden Queen, making the shift with Kaulig from his previous role in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Pardue had been the full-time crew chief of the No. 11 entry last year, developing synergy with Queen in select events. Throughout his tenure in NASCAR’s top leagues, Pardue boasts three victories, all achieved during his time with Roush Racing in 2009, teaming up with drivers like Greg Biffle and Matt Kenseth en route to Victory Lane.
The No. 14 RAM 1500 will fall under the guidance of Bruce Cook, a well-known team owner and multi-series crew chief. The driver for this entry will emerge from Kaulig’s ongoing Race for the Seat Program, the results of which are being aired online. Cook’s resume includes wins with Tony Stewart in the O’Reilly Series and several notable names in the Truck Series, such as Clint Bowyer, Kevin Harvick, and Ron Hornaday back in 2011. After recent years running his own team, Cook Racing Technologies, he returns to a full-time crew chief role, ready to mentor the team’s next rising star.
Mike Hillman, Jr. brings impressive credentials to his new assignment as crew chief of the No. 16 RAM 1500 driven by Justin Haley. With 23 career victories in the Truck Series, Hillman stands out as one of the series’ most successful shot-callers. Previously holding roles with Freedom Racing Enterprises, Niece Motorsports, and TRICON Garage, Hillman last won in the Truck Series in 2020 with Raphael Lessard and Kyle Busch Motorsports. Now, in partnership with Haley, the Lockport, New York native pursues his third series championship—and his first since guiding Todd Bodine to a title in 2010.
On the No. 25 RAM 1500, Alex Yontz steps up from the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for his first race as a Truck Series crew chief, with three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart piloting the truck in Daytona’s season-opening event. Yontz has built a strong track record over seven years with Kaulig, having contributed to nine wins with top-tier drivers like Ross Chastain, Justin Haley, AJ Allmendinger, and Kyle Larson. The Daytona opener marks Yontz’s entry into the Truck Series ranks, as he looks to make a memorable debut alongside Stewart.
Anticipation Builds for Daytona Season-Opener
The 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series is set to commence at Daytona International Speedway on Friday, February 13, at 7:30 PM ET. This event will be broadcast nationally via FOX Sports 1, NASCAR Racing Network, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90, promising significant attention as Kaulig Racing takes its first laps as a RAM Trucks-backed contender.
By appointing a blend of experienced crew chiefs and fresh leadership, Kaulig Racing positions itself for a competitive debut in the truck series. The combination of high-profile drivers, seasoned team leadership, and new manufacturer support from RAM Trucks establishes a strong foundation for the operation’s growth and potential championship ambitions. As the season unfolds, Kaulig’s strategic choices in crew chief assignments are set to play a pivotal role in shaping their fortunes on and off the track.
Drivers 🤝 Crew Chiefs
We've locked in our five 2026 Driver/Crew Chief pairings for our inaugural @RamTrucks season! pic.twitter.com/jrcasxYKFy
— Kaulig Trucks (@Kaulig_Trucks) February 2, 2026
