There are only a handful of cars in NASCAR history as legendary as Richard Petty’s #43. While Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s black #3 Chevy comes close, Petty’s #43 Dodge Charger defined an era. He didn’t just race the car—he put Dodge on the map in the early ’70s. Winning his first championship with them in 1972, Petty dominated the sport, securing back-to-back titles in 1974 and 1975 while racking up an astonishing 23 wins. However, Dodge’s NASCAR journey has been anything but smooth.
The manufacturer left the sport in 2012 after Brad Keselowski and Team Penske delivered them a championship. Penske’s shift to Ford left Dodge without a top-tier team, leading to their exit. Ever since, speculation about their return has swirled. But now, recent developments suggest those rumors might finally turn into reality.
A report from Catchfence.com confirmed that NASCAR has received an official application from a manufacturer looking to join Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota in the Cup Series. That manufacturer? Dodge. According to the report, Dodge plans to re-enter NASCAR through the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026, bringing back its iconic RAM Truck brand. The RAM last competed in 2016, but when it was on the track, it was a force to be reckoned with.
Dodge has a history of stepping away from NASCAR and returning later. After leaving in 1985, they re-entered with the Truck Series in 1995, but it wasn’t until 2001 that they made their presence known, winning 15 out of 24 races and capturing multiple manufacturer titles. Their last Truck Series victory came in 2012 with Ryan Blaney before factory support was pulled, eventually leading to their full exit in 2016.
However, more recent evidence suggests Dodge’s return is legitimate. NASCAR journalist Matt Weaver recently shared a screenshot of an email from a Wisconsin Dodge dealership stating that RAM will compete in the Truck Series. This was further backed by Dodge’s promotional materials, which now include a RAM activation tied to the Truck Series.
With the Truck Series relying on Ilmor-produced spec engines since 2018, Dodge only needs to develop a body to fit over the existing engine. That makes their Truck Series return much easier. But what about the Cup Series?
Reports indicate Dodge’s long-term plan includes a Cup Series return, possibly by 2027 or 2028. This timing aligns with NASCAR’s expected adjustments to its next-gen engine regulations, which could create a more competitive landscape. If Dodge follows their past strategy—starting in the Truck Series before moving up—they could be well-positioned for a comeback.
A major hurdle remains: finding a top-tier team willing to make the switch. Manufacturers like Chevrolet and Ford have deeply established relationships with teams, making it difficult for Dodge to gain traction. However, potential partners like RFK Racing or Trackhouse Racing might be looking for a fresh start outside the shadows of dominant teams like Penske and Hendrick Motorsports.
If Dodge successfully returns, NASCAR’s competitive landscape could change dramatically. Would you like to see them back on the track? Let us know your thoughts!
Richard Petty’s Legendary $14.1B Manufacturer Stuns NASCAR with an Unbelievable Comeback!
