Tony Stewart is gearing up for a surprising NASCAR comeback, joining Kaulig Racing in the Truck Series for the 2026 season opener at Daytona International Speedway. Despite his previous NASCAR success and current NHRA career, Stewart faces a daunting challenge ahead, as Kyle Busch delivers a blunt warning about the difficulties of racing at Daytona in today’s competitive environment.
Kyle Busch, known as one of NASCAR’s most seasoned drivers, has encountered struggles recently, enduring a prolonged period without wins despite past victories including more than five races at Daytona. Having raced alongside Stewart in earlier years, Busch acknowledges that the evolving NASCAR landscape makes it harder for returning veterans to find success. His warning suggests Stewart’s attempt to compete in the Truck Series won’t be easy.
Busch underscored the fierce competition and high stakes involved in Daytona racing today, highlighting the financial and strategic pressures teams face. He jokingly mentioned needing to give Stewart one of his shirts that state Daytona is
“the most expensive day of the year for the owners,”
hinting that merely finishing the race could be more harmful than beneficial for Stewart’s team.
I need to get him one of my shirts I wore there a few years ago where this is the most expensive day of the year for the owners, I hope he doesn’t plan on finishing.
Kyle Busch said via Peter Stratta of TSJSports.
Tony Stewart Shares His Motivation for Returning to NASCAR for a Single Race
While Tony Stewart’s legacy in NASCAR is well-established, including three championships, a Truck Series victory has eluded him. The opportunity to race a truck at Daytona in 2026 offered a chance to complete his achievements on the iconic track. When the seat for the No. 25 Ram Truck became available through Kaulig Racing, Stewart accepted without hesitation, eager to add this chapter to his storied career.
Stewart revealed that, despite having competed in nearly every type of four-wheeled vehicle at Daytona, he had never raced a truck there before. The Ram’s Free Agent program presented the perfect chance to stay competitive and enjoy racing again, even if just for one event. His enthusiasm for the challenge highlights the significance of this return amid an evolving NASCAR season that promises several changes.
I’ve raced just about everything with four wheels at Daytona, but never a truck. So, when a seat in the new Ram was offered up for their first race back in NASCAR, I didn’t hesitate, Ram’s Free Agent program is another great way for me to stay sharp and have a little fun.
Tony Stewart said, via DodgeGarage.
Challenges Await Stewart as NASCAR Ushers in a New Season
The 2026 NASCAR season introduces fresh formats, especially in the Cup Series championship, setting the stage for an intense and unpredictable year. Stewart’s single-race return at Daytona adds another layer of intrigue, as fans and experts question whether the veteran driver can still contend against a new era of racers. Despite his past successes, racing at Daytona remains a test of skill and endurance, compounded by modern race dynamics and fierce competition.
Kyle Busch’s warning underscores the uphill battle Stewart faces, emphasizing that financial pressures and the demanding nature of Daytona often thwart even the most experienced competitors. Stewart’s resolve to compete at this level at age 54 reflects his passion and commitment, but the outcome of his return will likely depend on how well he adapts to the evolving racing environment and the strength of his Kaulig Racing team.
As Daytona’s season opener approaches, all eyes will be on Stewart’s performance, with the broader NASCAR community anticipating whether this comeback could inspire other veterans or mark a difficult reentry into the sport’s highest tiers.
.@KyleBusch gave his thoughts on NASCAR’s new/old format, testing at @NWBSpeedway, and his friendship with Greg Biffle.
“Any crashes will kill your championship run”#NASCAR pic.twitter.com/HGlnHnAQOh
— Peter Stratta (@peterstratta) January 13, 2026
