Ty Dillon and Kaulig Racing remain in ongoing discussions regarding a potential return for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, signaling possible continuity in Dillon’s career. According to Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, these negotiations have progressed quietly, suggesting an interest in extending Dillon’s tenure with the team for another year.
Potential Stability for Ty Dillon with Kaulig Racing
A renewed contract with Kaulig Racing would mark Dillon’s first consecutive full season with one team since 2020, when he raced a complete season for Germain Racing before the team ceased operations. Since that time, Dillon has driven for several organizations, competing across all three of NASCAR’s primary national series.
After part-time stints in 2021 within both the Xfinity and Cup Series, Dillon secured a full-time ride with Petty-GMS Motorsports in 2022 and moved to Spire Motorsports in 2023. The 2024 season saw him dividing his schedule among the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series, including numerous appearances with Rackley W.A.R. in the Truck division. This varied path underscores the challenges Dillon has faced in establishing long-term stability within NASCAR’s top ranks.
A fresh agreement with Kaulig Racing would not only offer Dillon the continuity he has lacked but would also build on promising performances during the ongoing 2025 season, positioning him as a consistent competitor.
Improvement in Performance Highlights Dillon’s Value
Since joining Kaulig Racing, Dillon’s results have shown notable improvement. His average starting position of 23.1 this season represents the best of his career, while his average finish of 22.5 ranks fourth across seven full-time Cup Series campaigns. These figures indicate that Dillon is delivering steady and competitive performances rather than simply occupying a seat.
This progress is particularly significant because Kaulig Racing maintains only two full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series: Dillon’s No. 10 car and A. J. Allmendinger’s No. 16. In a sport where teams frequently reassess their driver lineup to improve results, Dillon’s consistency enhances his prospects of securing a continued role with Kaulig.
Confirmed Return of Allmendinger Eases Contract Discussions
Kaulig Racing has already confirmed that A. J. Allmendinger will return as a full-time driver in 2026, a decision announced by Team President Chris Rice. Locking in Allmendinger early allows Kaulig Racing to approach the confirmation of the second driver, likely Dillon, with less pressure. This dynamic may explain the subdued public activity surrounding Dillon’s contract talks.
Reflecting on the broader context, Bob Pockrass noted,
NASCAR’s silly season is quiet so far … but it’s only June.
—Bob Pockrass, FOX Sports
This observation captures the unusually slow pace of driver moves and announcements typically expected around this time in NASCAR’s seasonal cycle. Many teams appear to be taking a more measured approach to contract renewals during this period.
Further elaborating, Pockrass wrote,
Kaulig Racing with AJ Allmendinger (19th in the standings) and Ty Dillon (30th) is trending toward having its same stable. Allmendinger is pretty much locked in and talks continue on a Dillon renewal.
—Bob Pockrass, FOX Sports
Outlook for Dillon and Kaulig Racing Heading into 2026
Although no final decision has been announced, the current report points toward optimism on both sides. Dillon’s performance improvements, coupled with the confirmed return of Allmendinger, suggest that Kaulig Racing is leaning toward retaining its driver lineup for the upcoming season.
A contract extension would give Dillon a rare opportunity for back-to-back seasons with the same Cup Series team, providing valuable stability after years of transitions. For Kaulig Racing, maintaining a consistent driver roster could strengthen their competitive position as they prepare for the 2026 season, where continuity can translate into better on-track results and team cohesion.
