Fans of the NASCAR Truck Series are rallying behind the idea of seeing Tony Stewart’s racing ally, Rico Abreu, compete once again, especially after Stewart’s noteworthy performance at Daytona International Speedway on February 13, 2026. With Stewart’s comeback drawing record viewership and enthusiasm, momentum has built for Kaulig Racing to consider Abreu for the next high-profile outing, putting Tony Stewart NASCAR Truck Series discussions back in the spotlight.
Daytona Return Makes History and Sets Off Fan Speculation
During the Fresh from Florida 250 at Daytona Beach, Florida, Tony Stewart sat behind the wheel of a NASCAR Truck for RAM’s Free Agent program, after more than two decades away from the series. RAM announced plans in November to showcase bold personalities in its No. 25 Ram 1500 truck, which Stewart embodied at Daytona. The event broke the Truck Series’ 10-year viewership record, achieving the highest ratings since 2016. According to FOX Sports PR, audience numbers surged from 1.01 million to 1.38 million—a striking 37 percent increase—peaking at over 1.6 million between 9:45 PM and 10:00 PM ET.
The buzz wasn’t limited to official channels. Kaulig Racing teased the identity of their next Free Agent seat driver, prompting a response from Stewart’s dirt racing partner, Rico Abreu. Abreu playfully suggested his interest on social media:
“Where do I send my resume? I’ll handle wrestling a 🐏 no problem.” — RICO (@Rico_Abreu)
Chris Rice, CEO of Kaulig Racing, quickly replied to Abreu, signaling potential interest from the team: I know a guy!!!
Rico Abreu’s Racing Background Fuels the Excitement
Rico Abreu, a midget specialist from California and a noted force in dirt and short track racing, boasts considerable experience across NASCAR’s developmental leagues. Between 2015 and 2017, he participated in 26 NASCAR Truck Series races and competed in 14 ARCA Menards Series East events, as well as running in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East at the same time. In 2014, he claimed the USAC National Midget Series championship, adding to his motorsport resume. While Abreu is not currently a full-time racing driver, his track record, especially in Sprint and short-track racing, has many believing he could make a seamless return. Stewart, a three-time Cup Series and IndyCar champion, and Abreu have partnered professionally on the dirt circuits, strengthening the case for a reunion in the Truck Series.
Fan Support for Abreu Intensifies Online
The online community has overwhelmingly backed the possibility of Rico Abreu joining the NASCAR Truck Series alongside his ally Stewart. After Abreu’s response to Kaulig Racing, fans voiced their desire to see him behind the wheel:
“Can we please see this happen?” — Fan
“Be sic to see you in a truck again, bro. I don’t think you had enough time to get the hang of the trucks.” — Fan
Additional fans questioned Abreu about his experience with different track types and expressed excitement about seeing him race at notable venues such as Dover, Texas, and Martinsville—locations known for rewarding short-track expertise.
Given the record-breaking audience figures generated from Stewart’s participation and the positive social media activity, pressure is mounting on Kaulig Racing as well as RAM’s Free Agent program decision-makers to appoint another crowd-pleasing name. With Abreu’s proven credentials and notable partnership with Stewart, many are anticipating an official announcement soon.
What Lies Ahead for Kaulig Racing and the Truck Series?
The combination of soaring fan enthusiasm, high television ratings, and active engagement from drivers and teams has spotlighted the potential for Rico Abreu’s return to the NASCAR Truck Series. Stewart’s recent race at Daytona not only revitalized interest in the series but also signaled opportunities for experienced racers like Abreu to connect with NASCAR’s audience. If Kaulig Racing and RAM continue flaunting “larger-than-life personalities,” fans can expect the Tony Stewart NASCAR Truck Series conversation to stay relevant well into the season. As anticipation intensifies, the motorsport world watches for the next major development in this compelling storyline.
Where do I send my resume?
I’ll handle wrestling a 🐏 no problem https://t.co/RVcWQqOvgI— RICO (@Rico_Abreu) February 21, 2026
