Timothy “Mini” Tyrrell has been named to the Kaulig Racing Truck Series lineup for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season, following his victory in Ram’s Race for the Seat reality competition. The announcement finalizes the roster for Kaulig Racing’s five-truck team, just ahead of the series’ early-season events at Daytona International Speedway, and marks a milestone both for Tyrrell and for the team’s growing program.
Race for the Seat Initiative Highlights Ram’s Return and Tyrrell’s Path to the No. 14 Truck
Ram’s renewed involvement in NASCAR brought with it a unique talent search, combining a rotating free-agent entry and a reality competition to spotlight emerging drivers. Over eight episodes, 15 hopefuls were faced with on-track and off-track challenges, designed not just to gauge their driving skills but also their preparation, leadership, and ability to represent sponsors. Timothy Tyrrell prevailed in a field of competitors, earning the coveted No. 14 Ram 1500 for Kaulig Racing’s enhanced lineup.
Tyrrell’s performance shone throughout the series, claiming victories in a variety of disciplines. He won a Legends heat race at Ace Speedway, clinched a Late Model Stock win at Virginia International Raceway, and excelled in a creative challenge where he produced a mock commercial for Kaulig Racing and Ram. The competition not only tested racing proficiency but also showcased each driver’s personality and promotional skills.
Team President and New Teammate Enthusiasm Welcomes Tyrrell
Chris Rice, president of Kaulig Racing, expressed excitement and pride over Tyrrell’s selection, noting his strong performance and leadership during the competition.
“Mini Tyrrell!!! Im excited to welcome @MiniTyrrell to @KauligRacing. Another guy from Virginia like me. Really proud of what he did on and off the track during the challenges, I know he’ll make everyone at Kaulig proud!”
— Chris Rice, Team President
Tyrrell, a 21-year-old rising star, shared his gratitude for the opportunity and remains energized by his NASCAR debut prospects.
“Let’s get to work!!!! 💪🏻 Thank you @RamTrucks & @Kaulig_Trucks for taking a chance on a short track kid with a dream. God’s plan 🙏”
— Timothy Tyrrell, Driver
The 2026 Kaulig Racing Truck Series lineup at Daytona now features Daniel Dye in the No. 10, Brenden “Butterbean” Queen in the No. 12, Justin Haley with No. 16, Tony Stewart piloting the No. 25, and Timothy Tyrrell representing the No. 14 truck. This roster will debut in the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway, scheduled for February 13 at 7:30 pm ET with a full 100-lap shootout.
Tyrrell Prepares for Upcoming Debuts in ARCA and the Truck Series
Although this will be Tyrrell’s first appearance in the Truck Series, he has paved his way with consistent late-model racing results. Not yet a veteran of the NASCAR national circuits or the ARCA Menards Series, Tyrrell is set for a doubleheader at Daytona: making his ARCA debut with Cook Racing Technologies, then readying for his first Truck race just one day later. In the CARS Late Model Tour, he accumulated three wins in 2025 and back-to-back top five finishes, adding further weight to his selection for this coveted seat.
Final Showdown at South Boston: How the Seat Was Won
Race for the Seat’s dramatic conclusion came at South Boston Speedway, where Tyrrell entered the decisive round just a point behind contender Carson Ferguson. By winning his Late Model Stock Cars heat and applying pressure to Ferguson, he emerged on top when Ferguson finished at the back, securing the full-time seat for the Truck Series. Chris Rice praised Ferguson’s efforts, highlighting the leadership on display throughout the contest.
“It was a blast watching you show out and be a leader!!”
— Chris Rice, Team President
Carson Ferguson, though missing out on the main prize, was rewarded for his speed in the finale with a one-race Truck Series contract at Martinsville Speedway, $50,000, and his own chance to make a NASCAR national series debut in the No. 25 Ram truck during the 2026 season.
Looking Ahead: Impact of Kaulig Racing’s Expanded Lineup
Kaulig Racing’s decision to run a five-truck program, reinforced by new faces like Tyrrell and veteran names including Tony Stewart and Justin Haley, signals a bold approach as the team seeks a greater impact in the Truck Series. Ram’s involvement and innovative driver search have already created new pathways for talent, exemplified by the journeys of both Timothy Tyrrell and Carson Ferguson. As the season opener approaches, the motorsports community will be watching these newcomers’ performances and assessing the influence of Kaulig Racing’s expanded efforts on the NASCAR landscape.
Mini Tyrrell!!! Im excited to welcome @MiniTyrrell to @KauligRacing.
Another guy from Virginia like me. Really proud of what he did on and off the track during the challenges, I know he’ll make everyone at Kaulig proud! https://t.co/BWRryyQ7Nz pic.twitter.com/KhLHb92BPL
— Chris Rice (@C_Rice1) February 7, 2026
