Kaulig Racing, featuring AJ Allmendinger, is preparing for a milestone as its newly established five-truck NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team arrives at Daytona International Speedway in February. However, the team is already dealing with the repercussions of this expansion, particularly in the form of a significant reduction in data support for its existing Cup Series program.
Until now, Kaulig’s Cup Series cars, which continue as Chevrolets, have benefited from comprehensive data sharing with Chevrolet. With the introduction of the Truck Series effort—marking the organization’s return in partnership with RAM for the first time in over a decade—the flow of information from the manufacturer has changed. This adjustment is set against the backdrop of Dodge’s potential return to NASCAR as a manufacturer, leading to Chevrolet withholding some data historically provided to Kaulig Racing.
The Impact on Data Access and Team Performance
During an interview on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Trent Owens, who will continue as crew chief for veteran AJ Allmendinger, discussed the immediate effects on the team’s resources.
“A lot of those channels are definitely turned off,” Owens said. “There’s some things you have to get from Chevrolet to run a Chevrolet car, which we still are. The manufacturers provide a lot of the simulator time and the simulation tools. NASCAR has things set up with each manufacturer now where a lot of data gets processed through those channels.”
The changes to manufacturer relationships have notably decreased the volume and quality of data that Kaulig can access for race preparation. Owens highlighted that vital resources such as simulator sessions and simulation tools, which are typically provided by the manufacturer, are now being limited. This situation creates a challenge as teams rely heavily on this data to optimize performance and make critical decisions ahead of races.
Adjustements and Uncertainty Ahead of 2026
The transition period for Kaulig Racing is expected to last through at least 2026, especially with the confirmed arrival of RAM in the team’s trucks program. Owens further addressed the impact on the team’s preparations:
“We’re certainly missing a lot from what we had last year.” — Trent Owens, Crew Chief
According to Owens, not all past informational resources are still available, with some data remaining accessible and other channels now restricted. This evolving picture makes it harder for Kaulig Racing’s Cup Series effort to maintain the same level of competitiveness as in previous years.
“Some of that we’re privy to, and some of it we’re not. We’re certainly missing a lot from what we had last year.” — Trent Owens, Crew Chief
For the upcoming season, Kaulig Racing will campaign two full-time Cup Series cars, driven by AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon. The team’s move reflects a broader trend in NASCAR as organizations adjust to changing manufacturer alliances and evolving information-sharing practices.
Significance and What Lies Ahead for Kaulig Racing
Kaulig Racing’s situation underscores the broader complexities that arise as NASCAR teams diversify into new series and shift manufacturer relationships. The team’s dual commitment—to both Cup and Truck Series—carries the promise of new opportunities, but also introduces complications, particularly regarding the flow of crucial technical data. For AJ Allmendinger, his crew, and team leadership, navigating these limitations will be a central storyline as they pursue success on multiple fronts in 2026 and beyond.
As Kaulig Racing prepares to compete at Daytona International Speedway and beyond, the outcome of this period is likely to shape both their Cup Series season and the broader dynamics of team-manufacturer partnerships in NASCAR. The team’s responses to these challenges—and the performance of drivers like AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon—will be watched closely by fans and competitors across the NASCAR community.
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