Get ready for a high-octane comeback story that’s set to shake up the racing world! Stellantis is betting big—$13 billion big—on a move that could catapult Ram and Dodge back into NASCAR glory. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this massive investment a game-changer or a risky gamble? Let’s dive in.
Stellantis, the powerhouse behind iconic brands like Ram and Dodge, has unveiled a bold plan to inject $13 billion into its U.S. manufacturing network over the next four years. Led by CEO Antonio Filosa, the company is doubling down on its American roots, and NASCAR is at the heart of this strategy. But what does this mean for Ram and Dodge’s racing ambitions? Spoiler alert: It’s bigger than you think.
2025 is shaping up to be the year Dodge makes its long-awaited return to NASCAR, with Ram not far behind. While Dodge’s comeback in the Cup Series might take up to three years, Ram’s re-entry could hit the track as early as 2026, thanks to its existing engine framework in the Craftsman Truck Series. And this is the part most people miss: Both brands have a championship legacy in NASCAR. Dodge clinched the 2012 Cup Series title with Brad Keselowski, while Ram secured two Truck Series championships, including Ted Musgrave’s 2005 victory. Now, after a 13-year hiatus, Stellantis is officially back in the race, with Ram partnering with Kaulig Racing for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Here’s the kicker: Up to five Ram trucks are expected to roar into the 2026 season opener at Daytona, but the drivers for this ‘super team’ remain a closely guarded secret. For now, Kaulig Racing’s focus is solely on Ram’s Truck Series return, with no immediate plans for other entries. But Matt Kaulig, the team owner, dropped a hint that’s got everyone talking: Stellantis has its eyes on the Cup Series eventually. “We wouldn’t do this if we didn’t think that,” Kaulig said, leaving the door wide open for speculation.
But here’s the controversial question: Can Stellantis truly dominate NASCAR again, or is this a nostalgia-driven move? While their Truck Series entry is a strong start, the Cup Series is the ultimate prize. With Stellantis’ deep pockets and American heritage, it’s hard to imagine them stopping short of the top. Yet, the road to victory is fraught with competition and challenges. Will they rise to the occasion, or will this comeback fall short of expectations?
For now, Kaulig Racing’s operations with Ram will run separately from its Chevrolet programs in NASCAR’s top divisions, as Stellantis lacks a presence there. The team will operate out of two buildings at the Richard Childress Racing campus in Welcome, North Carolina, keeping things streamlined yet ambitious.
Stellantis’ massive U.S. investment is a clear nod to its American legacy, and NASCAR is the perfect stage to showcase it. But as they rev up for this historic comeback, one thing is certain: The racing world is watching—and the stakes have never been higher. What do you think? Is Stellantis’ $13 billion gamble a winning bet, or is it too soon to tell? Let us know in the comments!
