The 2026 NASCAR season promises a series of notable returns, including the revival of the Chase playoff format and reintroduction of the five-strike rule. Dodge will also re-enter the competition after more than ten years. Among these comebacks, three-time Cup Series champion Tony Stewart is slated to make a high-profile return at the 2026 Daytona 500, reigniting interest across the sport. However, despite the general enthusiasm, Dale Earnhardt Jr. has expressed reservations about Stewart’s choice for his return race.
Stewart’s Return as Kaulig Racing’s Guest Driver in the Truck Series
Dodge’s comeback is marked by involvement through its RAM brand, which has sparked speculation about the drivers who will represent the brand. Kaulig Racing has announced three full-time Truck Series drivers but kept two seats open, including the No. 25 entry for its Free Agent Driver Program. This program plans to feature a rotating roster of drivers, allowing different talents to compete in each race throughout the season.
In this plan, Tony Stewart, now 54 years old, will lead by making his first NASCAR start since November 2016 as the inaugural guest driver in the No. 25 truck at the 2026 Daytona 500. The announcement has generated considerable anticipation, positioning Stewart’s return as a marquee moment for both Kaulig Racing and NASCAR.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Questions Stewart’s Decision to Return at Daytona
While the idea of Stewart’s comeback excites many fans, Earnhardt Jr. voiced his doubts on the “Dale Jr. Download” podcast. He criticized the decision to choose Daytona — widely known as one of NASCAR’s fastest and most challenging races — as the event for Stewart’s return, especially as Stewart has been out of full-time racing for nearly a decade.
He picked the doozy. Damn goodness. The dude don’t get **** because now I wouldn’t have picked Daytona. I want to pick somewhere else. It must be writing him a nice check. I’ll say that. But listen, this is what Dodge wants to do.
– Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR commentator and former driver
Earnhardt suggested that financial incentives, potentially a sizable paycheck, are likely a major factor influencing Stewart’s return at such a demanding race. He also expressed that, in his opinion, a less intense event would have been a more sensible choice to reacclimate to modern racing conditions.
Strategic Importance of Stewart’s Return for Dodge and Kaulig Racing
Beyond Stewart’s personal comeback, Earnhardt Jr. highlighted how the move aligns with Dodge’s broader marketing and competitive strategy. The manufacturer is not only aiming to field trucks but also to craft a compelling narrative that will generate excitement and social media engagement. Stewart’s participation is designed to amplify interest around the new Dodge entries and to build momentum throughout the season.
Earnhardt remains confident that this high-profile return, despite his personal doubts about the timing, could significantly benefit Dodge and Kaulig Racing both financially and in raising the profile of their Truck Series program.
