Get ready for a seismic shift in the world of NASCAR, as the 2026 season promises to be a game-changer, not just for the sport but for teams like Kaulig Racing, who are boldly stepping into uncharted territory. With NASCAR itself undergoing major transformations, Kaulig Racing is mirroring this evolution by gearing up for a future of independence, marking the end of its alliance with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) after the 2025 campaign. But here's where it gets exciting: Kaulig isn't just cutting ties—they're building an empire.
Currently operating from RCR’s North Carolina campus, Kaulig is set to relocate to a brand-new, fully owned facility, signaling a new era of self-reliance. And this is the part most people miss: they’re not just moving—they’re expanding. For the upcoming season, Kaulig plans to field five entries in the Truck Series, partnering with newcomers RAM, while also maintaining a strong presence in the Xfinity Series with the No. 11 car and two entries in the Cup Series. Chevrolet remains their partner for now, but whispers of a potential switch to RAM in the Cup Series by 2027 are already stirring the pot.
But independence comes with challenges, and Kaulig knows it. To prepare for this monumental shift, the team has aggressively ramped up hiring, bringing on board over 10 new team members in just three weeks, including engineers and specialists. Team president Chris Rice put it bluntly: “We’re hiring left and right… We’re going to be out on our own on Cup, so we’re building everything from scratch.” This isn’t just about filling positions—it’s about constructing a program capable of standing on its own two feet for the next decade, a vision championed by Matt Kaulig himself.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Kaulig biting off more than it can chew? Expanding into multiple series while severing a long-standing alliance is a bold move, but it’s one that could redefine their legacy—or backfire spectacularly. What do you think? Are they setting themselves up for success, or is this a risky gamble?
Adding to the buzz, Kaulig isn’t just reshuffling behind the scenes. They’ve tapped reigning ARCA Menards champion Brenden Queen to pilot their Xfinity Series car for the final three races of 2025, sparking speculation that this could be the start of something bigger—perhaps a full-time Truck Series ride next season. Fans are already dreaming of what’s next, but only time will tell if Kaulig’s ambitious plans will pay off.
As the team prepares to chart its own course, one thing is clear: Kaulig Racing isn’t just participating in the 2026 season—they’re aiming to dominate it. But will their bold moves lead to triumph, or will they face unforeseen hurdles? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one story you won’t want to miss.
