BROOKLYN, Mich. — After more than a decade away, Ram is officially returning to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026, aiming not just to compete, but to energize the sport and lay the foundation for broader involvement from Stellantis, its parent company. This will mark Ram’s first appearance in NASCAR since it exited the Truck Series after the 2012 season. The 2026 lineup will now include Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ram.
Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis says the brand’s reentry is about more than racing—it’s about growing the NASCAR fan base. “We want to take 20 million fans and turn that into 80 or 100 million,” Kuniskis stated, emphasizing a strategy built around product innovation and immersive fan experiences at the track.
While he didn’t reveal full details, he hinted that Ram’s approach would be bold, fun, and unexpected, with more to be unveiled closer to the Daytona season opener.
Fans got a preview of Ram’s energy with a high-impact demonstration before the Cup race at Michigan International Speedway, along with a nationwide commercial broadcast on Prime. Kuniskis noted that this kickoff was just the beginning of Ram’s buildup to 2026, with plans already in motion to field four to six trucks at Daytona. Specific teams and drivers are still under wraps.
Ram’s vehicle design is undergoing final testing, with wind tunnel results expected by mid-August before NASCAR gives official approval. NASCAR’s Senior Vice President of Racing Development, John Probst, called the move a “big moment” for the sport, especially as Ram becomes the first new manufacturer in the Truck Series since Toyota in 2004. Probst added that current manufacturers have been supportive of Ram’s inclusion and open to future competition.
As for a potential move into the Cup Series, Stellantis could be exploring that option as well. While Ram is primarily a truck brand, Stellantis owns 14 other automotive brands, including Dodge and Chrysler. Any new Cup Series entry would require at least 18 months of approval and development. Probst hinted that other manufacturers are also in serious talks to join NASCAR, saying the sport is in a strong position to attract new partners ready to make long-term investments.
