Rumors are intensifying about a Tony Stewart NASCAR return, specifically linked to the highly anticipated All-Star seat at Kaulig Racing for the 2026 Truck Series. The renewed excitement follows Kaulig Racing’s recent partnership with RAM Trucks, as fans and insiders weigh the possibility of seeing the veteran driver suit up at Daytona and possibly re-engage a broader audience.
Kaulig and RAM Set the Stage for 2026 Truck Series Season
Kaulig Racing and RAM Trucks are joining forces for the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series, marking the revival of the RAM brand within the sport. The team will field five seats, with three already filled by Brenden Queen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley. The fourth slot is tied to RAM’s reality show, Race for the Seat, whose winner’s name has been the subject of recent leaks and speculation. However, most attention has zeroed in on the fifth and final seat—the high-profile, rotational All-Star spot at Kaulig Racing, which is not meant for a full-time driver but for notable personalities, prompting widespread interest and speculation about Tony Stewart’s involvement.
Hints and Teasers Fuel Anticipation for Stewart’s Involvement
Chris Rice, CEO of Kaulig Racing, has openly discussed his aims for the unclaimed seat, focusing on drawing former fans back into the sport with the prospect of racing legends making appearances. As he stated,
“Going to re-engage some people that I think were passive NASCAR fans, maybe get re-engaged now because they’re going to see some of their heroes come back and drive.”
— Chris Rice, CEO of Kaulig Racing
Adding fuel to the rumors, Kaulignation—a well-known NASCAR insider—responded on social media with a smoking GIF, a nod that many in the NASCAR community associate exclusively with Tony Stewart due to his nickname “Smoke” from his iconic dirt racing career.
An official statement from the team outlined,
“Drivers from across the motorsports world are invited to pilot the No. 25 Ram 1500 truck for Kaulig Racing during the 2026 season.”
— Official Kaulig Racing Team Statement
This move suggests Kaulig Racing is reaching out to a wide circle of motorsports personalities, hinting that former stars, including Stewart, could be in their sights. For fans and insiders alike, Stewart stands as the most prominent and compelling candidate discussed for a return to the Truck Series, matching the team’s vision for the All-Star seat.
Fan Connection and the Mission behind Kaulig’s Free Agent Seat
Kaulig Racing has made engagement with NASCAR’s audience a central goal, strategizing to unite fans around beloved drivers and iconic teams. As detailed in their communications, the emphasis is on connection, enthusiasm, and the celebration of larger-than-life personalities. Their philosophy was echoed further:
“One common thread: the connection to teams and drivers, personalities larger than life. No. 25 isn’t chasing points, we are chasing something bigger—celebrating and amplifying fan engagement with the Free Agents, Kaulig Racing, and the Ram brand. That’s the sole mission.”
— Kaulig Racing Official Statement
Such messaging has intensified expectations for an All-Star like Tony Stewart to occupy the seat, with many seeing his potential participation as an ideal match for Kaulig’s engagement-driven strategy.
Why Stewart’s Possible Return Is a Complex Question
The possibility of Tony Stewart making a return to NASCAR is layered in history. Past controversies, including unfavorable comments from NASCAR management—specifically Steve Phelps—due to Stewart’s involvement in competing events like the Superstar Racing Experience, once seemed to create distance between Stewart and NASCAR. However, recent signs indicate that NASCAR is making efforts to reconnect with both fans and legacy drivers.
Some moves by NASCAR, such as airing new commercials meant to combat negative stereotypes and promising changes to the championship format, underscore the organization’s attempts to rebuild bridges. The France family, which oversees much of NASCAR’s direction, appears intent on restoring goodwill, making Stewart’s inclusion in the Truck Series a real possibility in the eyes of many fans and analysts.
The All-Star Seat: Expectation, Hype, and Uncertainty for Daytona
Despite the ongoing rumors, no official confirmation has surfaced regarding who will take the coveted All-Star seat at Kaulig Racing’s Truck Series entry for the season opener at Daytona. The team’s policy is to announce each driver’s participation only during race weeks, leaving fans waiting for a reveal as the event approaches.
The anticipation among the fanbase is palpable. Many see Stewart’s appearance, even for a single Truck Series race, as a pivotal moment that would bring significant excitement. The absence of such a high-profile return, on the other hand, might disappoint supporters and reflect back on both Kaulig Racing and NASCAR.
The Broader Impact: Restoring Legacy and Boosting NASCAR’s Appeal
As speculation swirls about a Tony Stewart NASCAR return, the underlying strategy is clear: reconnect lapsed fans, celebrate motorsports heritage, and add flare to the Truck Series season opener at Daytona. Kaulig Racing, through its partnership with RAM and revival of the All-Star seat, positions itself at the center of this effort.
While the final decision remains unannounced, the possibility of seeing a series legend behind the wheel again has reinvigorated the NASCAR community. For fans of Stewart, Kaulig Racing, or the sport in general, the coming weeks—and race week in particular—promise drama and excitement as anticipation for official news continues to build.
— Kaulignation (@Kaulignation) January 11, 2026
