Industry talk is growing louder about a possible fourth manufacturer entering the NASCAR Cup Series. Reports suggest Honda and Stellantis’ Dodge/Ram brand are the leading contenders. NASCAR insiders say Dodge, through its Ram trucks division, has formally applied to join the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026—a typical first move for new manufacturers—while ongoing discussions with Honda have also been confirmed.
NASCAR President Steve Phelps told SportsBusiness Journal that the series is in “deep discussions” with potential new partners, with a couple of companies “kicking the tires hard” on entry. Phelps added that a new OEM could help balance competition and bring in fresh funding, although even with a deal today, engine development and other preparations would take time.
Meanwhile, NASCAR COO Steve O’Donnell noted that talks with manufacturers like Honda have been intensifying, though any new brand must align with NASCAR’s entertainment model, blending innovation like hybrid tech while maintaining the sport’s classic V-8 sound.
Dodge/Ram appears closest to returning. Sources report that Dodge has submitted paperwork to join the Truck Series in 2026. Given Dodge’s past success in Trucks and the current use of spec Ilmor V-8 engines, re-entry would be relatively smooth. Reports suggest Dodge aims to follow Toyota’s old path—starting in Trucks, then moving into Cup by 2027–28. While Stellantis publicly downplays it, insiders believe preliminary team talks have occurred, including a rumored approach to Ford-aligned RFK Racing.
Honda also remains in the picture. NASCAR has courted the Japanese automaker for years, and with Honda possibly leaving IndyCar after 2026 due to rising costs, NASCAR presents a logical next step. Though Honda officials say there’s “nothing new to report,” their extensive motorsports background and hybrid technology could fit NASCAR’s evolving future.
The addition of a new OEM could shake up team alliances and technical regulations. Mid-tier teams, in particular, could benefit from new funding and factory support. Rumors have linked Stewart-Haas Racing with Honda, and Dodge’s ties to Tony Stewart’s drag racing ventures have fueled speculation too.
While there’s no official timeline, NASCAR leadership remains eager to expand. If Dodge or Honda—or both—join, it would mark the biggest manufacturer change since Toyota’s arrival in 2007, reshaping NASCAR’s future in a major way.
