Ram Announces Return to NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for 2026

Ram Trucks, under the Stellantis umbrella, is making an official return to NASCAR with a planned entry in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series starting in 2026. This marks a significant comeback for the brand, which hasn’t competed in NASCAR’s top national series for over a decade.

While Ram previously competed under the Dodge name, this will be the first time Ram competes as its own distinct brand in the series, aligning closely with the pickup truck culture that the Truck Series represents.

A Stellantis spokesperson commented, “We’re excited to confirm Ram’s entry into the Truck Series for 2026. The timing aligns well with our brand strategy and the strong connection Ram trucks have with NASCAR fans.”

Why the Truck Series?

The Craftsman Truck Series provides a great platform for Ram for several reasons:

The series’ focus on pickup-style vehicles fits naturally with Ram’s brand image.

Running a Truck Series team is far more cost-effective than competing in the Cup Series, thanks in part to standardized chassis and spec Ilmor V8 engines.

This entry is a strategic step for Stellantis to rebuild its motorsports presence and potentially pave the way for a return to the Cup Series in the future.

Timeline and Future Plans

Ram trucks will officially compete starting in 2026. While Stellantis hasn’t announced concrete plans beyond that, there is speculation that a full Cup Series return could happen as early as 2027 or 2028, depending on technical partnerships and team alignments.

A Brief Look Back

Ram’s legacy in NASCAR dates back to its time racing as Dodge:

Dodge won manufacturer championships in the Truck Series in 2001, 2003, and 2004.

The 2004 driver championship was also claimed by Dodge’s Bobby Hamilton.

Dodge’s Cup Series involvement ended after the 2012 season, highlighted by Brad Keselowski’s Cup championship that year.

What to Expect Next

Details such as the teams Ram will partner with, the design of the new race truck, and the full scope of the program are still to come. The return of Ram adds a fresh dynamic to the Truck Series and could spark further competition and interest in NASCAR’s national divisions.

Final Thoughts

Ram’s return to NASCAR’s Truck Series is well timed given the growing popularity of the series and the strong fan connection with trucks. It’s a smart move that could mark the beginning of a broader commitment from Stellantis to NASCAR racing.