As the 2025 campaign progresses, AJ Allmendinger has shared his appreciation for Ty Dillon‘s contribution to reinforcing the relationship between Kaulig Racing and Richard Childress Racing (RCR). This alliance has become a focal point in the NASCAR garage this season, highlighting the collaborative forces driving both teams toward playoff contention.
The partnership between Kaulig Racing and RCR dates back to Kaulig’s early days in NASCAR, running deeper than just a manufacturer affiliation. According to Allmendinger, Dillon’s presence has had a tangible impact in a season where both organizations aim for success. NASCAR insider Toby Christie tweeted about Allmendinger’s sentiments regarding the evolving alliance, underscoring the significance of this teamwork.
Founded in 2016 by Matt Kaulig, the organization has benefitted greatly from technical support and infrastructure provided by RCR. Kaulig operates from a facility on RCR’s North Carolina campus and relies on RCR’s engine arm, ECR Engines, for its Chevrolet models. The benefits of the Kaulig-RCR alliance are already becoming apparent, with shared access to engineering insights, cutting-edge simulation data, and aerodynamic development resources giving Kaulig Racing a competitive edge.
While Kaulig maintains its own identity under Matt and President Chris Rice, the cooperation with RCR has sharpened its competitiveness. This is particularly evident in Dillon’s role at Kaulig, which extends beyond just driving duties. His experience gained from larger organizations like RCR and Germain Racing has proven invaluable in closing operational gaps and enhancing team performance.
The results speak for themselves; Kaulig Racing has seen improved performances across all five of its Cup and Xfinity entries following an inconsistent 2024 season. This year, the team’s NASCAR Cup Series efforts have shown visible enhancement. Currently, Kaulig fields two cars in the Cup Series, with AJ Allmendinger driving the #16 and Dillon representing the #10.
Allmendinger, now back in a full-time Cup ride, has achieved three top-10 finishes, placing him 16th in the drivers’ standings with 198 points. The team stands 17th in the owners’ standings, also with 198 points, reflecting a solid resurgence fueled by teamwork and strategy.
As the Cup Series heads into Talladega Superspeedway for the Jack Link’s 500, Kaulig Racing aims to capitalize on its current momentum. Allmendinger will start the race in 19th place, with Dillon a row behind at 21. The competitiveness exhibited by Allmendinger, coupled with Dillon’s behind-the-scenes efforts, positions Kaulig Racing as one of the more formidable mid-pack teams entering the superspeedway season.
