Dodge’s parent company, Stellantis, is set to enter the NASCAR scene in 2026 by having its RAM brand compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, with plans to eventually participate in the Cup Series. While a 2027 Cup debut is possible, the focus is initially on track races, which are seen as a more manageable step compared to jumping straight into Cup competitions.
All trucks in the series use Ilmor engines and share certain body parts, so RAM had to develop its own design for the nose, hood, front fenders, and tail sections of the racing truck. RAM has yet to announce the driver or team involved but aims to field around four to six trucks for the 2026 season opener at Daytona. RAM CEO Tim Kinuskis likened their current efforts to searching for the perfect track partner and emphasized they aim for sustained involvement, not just a one-off appearance in trucks and Cup races.
Although RAM doesn’t currently have a car for Cup races, there is ongoing deliberation about possibly reviving the Dodge brand or even Plymouth for NASCAR. Kinuskis clarified that while RAM is returning to the truck series, it is separate from Dodge, and any news of Dodge’s return will be announced when the time is right.
Industry speculation hints that former NASCAR driver Jimmy Johnson, now involved in team ownership, might help with building the Ram chassis or fielding the trucks. Kinuskis also plans to boost fan engagement with programs involving personalities like YouTube racer Cleetus McFarland. Dodge previously participated in the Cup Series between 2001 and 2012, winning a championship with Brad Keselowski before exiting when top teams left the brand.
Kinuskis’ goals include reintroducing the iconic Hemi engine, which resonates with about half of the truck racing fan base. NASCAR’s John Probst noted that while engine development would take at least 18 months, the core components from past Dodge engines remain relevant, aiding this comeback process.
Keselowski, who co-owns RFK Racing, praised the Truck Series as an ideal entry point for manufacturers since it maintains parity and does not demand immediate engine development, making it a good stepping stone for Cup competition. For now, Stellantis’ focus remains on successfully launching their RAM trucks at Daytona, with Cup aspirations left open for the future.
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Fan Take: This is exciting news for NASCAR enthusiasts as it marks a significant return of a major brand with deep racing heritage, likely bringing fresh competition and renewed fan interest. RAM’s strategic entry through the Truck Series could reshape manufacturer dynamics in NASCAR and set the stage for thrilling developments in the Cup Series down the line.
