Tony Stewart is set to make his highly anticipated return to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, marking his first start in the series since 2005, this Friday night at Daytona International Speedway. The Tony Stewart NASCAR Truck return will see the 54-year-old Hall of Famer take the wheel for Kaulig Racing in the Fresh from Florida 250, showcasing both his enduring talent and the debut of the Ram brand in the series since 2012.
Stewart’s Comeback and New Chapter
This entry at Daytona signals Stewart’s first NASCAR national series race since the 2016 Cup season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Since his departure from full-time NASCAR competition, Stewart has been inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame and shown his versatility by achieving success as a top fuel drag racer. Traditionally known for his competitive edge and adaptability, Stewart is returning with Kaulig Racing, driving the No. 25 Ram truck, eager to create fresh memories at the famed superspeedway.
Ram’s Return to NASCAR and Kaulig’s Expanded Effort
The vehicle Stewart will pilot represents more than just a comeback for himself—it marks Ram’s re-emergence onto the national NASCAR stage after a prolonged absence, with Kaulig Racing fielding five Ram trucks for this event. Joining Stewart are team members Justin Haley, Daniel Dye, Brenden “Butterbean” Queen, and Mini Tyrrell, the latter securing a seat through Kaulig’s Race for the Seat program. The team’s bold move places the Ram brand directly in the limelight for this season-opening showcase at Daytona.
“This is Ram’s coming-out party,” Stewart shared during Thursday’s media session at Daytona International Speedway.
“So, what better way to support Ram and Dodge and (parent company) Stellantis and to do it in the biggest showcase of the year in the first race at Daytona?”
Adapting to New Teams and Familiar Tracks
Stewart’s return brings renewed energy to Daytona, as he teams up with a group and a brand he has yet to race with in NASCAR trucks. There is a spirit of optimism surrounding his participation, especially considering his previous successes at the iconic track.
“…It’s fun to do it with a group I’ve never worked with before. It’s fun to do it with a brand I’m passionate about at a track that we’ve had some success at. All in all, it’s nice to be back.”
– Tony Stewart, Driver
New Faces Compete in the Aftermath of a Champion’s Exit
With last year’s standout driver and series champion Corey Heim departing the No. 11 TRICON Garage Toyota after recording a record-setting twelve wins from twenty-five events in 2025, the field is wide open. Drivers such as Kaden Honeycutt, taking over for Heim, along with Layne Riggs and Chandler Smith of Front Row Motorsports, will be contending with the Kaulig Racing contingent for wins and points in the new season.
Looking Ahead for Stewart, Kaulig Racing, and the Series
Stewart’s presence brings increased attention and anticipation to the Truck Series opener, blending the excitement of Ram’s re-entry with the competitive fire of a Hall of Fame driver. As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on Daytona International Speedway to see how Stewart, Kaulig Racing, and their Ram trucks fare against a refreshed field of contenders.
