Aj Allmendinger

Anthony James “A.J.” Allmendinger, nicknamed “The Dinger,” born December 16, 1981, in Los Gatos, California, is an accomplished American professional stock car and open-wheel racing driver. He currently competes full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 16 Chevrolet ZL1 for Kaulig Racing. Renowned for his road course expertise and versatility, Allmendinger has built a distinguished career across multiple racing disciplines including Champ Car, NASCAR Cup Series, and endurance racing.

Early Life and Background

Allmendinger began racing BMX bikes at age five and successfully transitioned into go-karts by age eight, earning two International Kart Federation Grand National championships. Advancing through open-wheel racing, he competed in the Formula Dodge National Championship in 2001, earning a spot in the Barber Dodge Pro Series (2002), which he won. In 2003, he captured the Champ Car Atlantic Championship, securing multiple poles and wins, and moved on to a promising Champ Car career before shifting focus to NASCAR.

Career

Allmendinger transitioned to NASCAR in the late 2000s, initially competing for Team Red Bull. He amassed 18 wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, becoming a dominant road course specialist with 11 road course wins—a series record. In the Cup Series, he scored three career wins primarily on road courses, at Watkins Glen, the Charlotte Roval, and the Brickyard 400 (Indianapolis Motor Speedway).

He also has significant endurance racing credentials, winning the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 2012 with Michael Shank Racing. After losing his full-time Cup ride with JTG Daugherty Racing in 2019, Allmendinger raced part-time for Kaulig Racing in the Xfinity Series and acted as a television broadcaster until returning to full-time Cup competition in 2023 with Kaulig Racing driving the No. 16 car.

Off-Track Ventures

Outside of racing, Allmendinger has participated in media work, podcasts, and charitable efforts linked to health, wellness, and education. Known for his engaging personality and commitment to mentorship within motorsports, he remains one of NASCAR’s most well-liked drivers off the track.

Net Worth

Allmendinger’s net worth is estimated around $10 million. His earnings are derived from racing contracts, prize winnings, endorsements (including LeafFilter and Celsius), media work, and other ventures.

Family Life

A.J. Allmendinger is married to Tara Meador since 2014. The couple shares a son, born in 2017. His father, James Allmendinger, has supported his career, and he maintains close family ties. He keeps his personal life relatively private, balancing family alongside racing commitments.

Recent Controversies

In 2012, Allmendinger faced suspension after a failed drug test for a banned stimulant but returned to racing after completing NASCAR’s recovery program. Since then, he has maintained a clean professional reputation without major incidents.

Key Highlights from Season 2024 and  2025

• In 2024, Allmendinger competed full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for Kaulig Racing, securing a regular-season championship and winning a playoff race at Las Vegas, which helped him advance to the Championship 4.
• As of 1 August 2025, he continues full-time Xfinity competition with Kaulig Racing while also competing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. Known as a strong road course racer, Allmendinger remains a perennial threat for wins and playoff contention.