Big shifts are on the horizon for the 2026 NASCAR season, and Kaulig Racing is right in the middle of it. The upcoming season is set to undergo significant changes in the way NASCAR functions, and teams like Kaulig Racing are preparing to embrace this transformation by taking bold steps toward independence.
Currently, Kaulig Racing operates as part of an alliance with Richard Childress Racing (RCR), but this partnership will conclude at the end of the 2025 season. As they transition into this new chapter, the team is actively pursuing ambitious strategies and expanding its workforce to ensure a strong foundation for the future.
What's Next for Kaulig Racing After Parting Ways with RCR?
Presently situated at RCR's North Carolina facility, Kaulig Racing is planning to move into a brand new, entirely owned space as they head into the next season. Looking ahead, the team intends to compete in the Truck Series with five entries, marking their collaboration with the newcomer, RAM.
In the Xfinity Series, they will continue with the No. 11 car and will have two entries competing in the Cup Series. Their ongoing relationship with Chevrolet will persist in these two series, but excitingly, there are discussions of a potential switch to RAM for the 2027 Cup Series season.
However, for these transitional plans to materialize, Kaulig Racing is well aware that a dependable team is essential. Team president Chris Rice has confirmed that the hiring process has been accelerated to prepare for this crucial phase.
In his own words, Rice stated, "We’re hiring left and right. I think over the last three weeks, we’ve had about 10 people start, and we’ve had a lot of engineers join us because, in addition to constructing five trucks, we’re going to be setting off on our own in the Cup series. We can't rely on RCR for support anymore, so we'll be forging our own path."
Rice elaborated on their plans to build their own Cup program, including the design and production of car bodies and other vital components. He also reflected on the vision expressed by Matt Kaulig, who has encouraged the team to foster an organization that is self-sufficient for the next decade.
But it’s not just internal developments that are creating a buzz; changes in the driver lineup are also in the works. Recently, Kaulig Racing announced that they would be bringing on Brenden Queen, the reigning ARCA Menards champion, as their Xfinity Series driver for the last three races of the 2025 season.
This news has stirred excitement among fans, leading many to speculate that this might be the beginning of a more significant opportunity, potentially even a full-time position in the Truck Series with Kaulig in the upcoming season.
But here's where it gets controversial... what do you think about teams going independent in NASCAR? Is it a step forward or a risky move? We’d love to hear your opinions in the comments below! Is Kaulig Racing making the right decision as they gear up for their independence, or does it present challenges that they might not be prepared for? Let's discuss!
