Ram Poised for NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Return in 2026

Ram could soon be making a long-anticipated return to NASCAR, with sources suggesting the brand has submitted a formal application to join the Craftsman Truck Series for the 2026 season. If approved, it would mark Ram’s first official involvement in the series since withdrawing after the 2016 season. Meanwhile, speculation continues to grow regarding Dodge’s potential return to the NASCAR Cup Series by 2028, reigniting a brand legacy that has been absent since 2012.

Ram’s Truck Series Return: A Logical Move – 

Ram, which was previously part of Dodge before becoming a standalone brand in 2009, had a strong presence in NASCAR’s Truck Series throughout the 2000s. The manufacturer secured three Truck Series manufacturer championships (2001, 2003, and 2004), with the last title coinciding with Bobby Hamilton Sr.’s 2004 driver championship.

Unlike previous efforts where manufacturers had to provide unique engine packages, the Truck Series has simplified the process with the standardized Ilmor Engineering NT1 V8 spec engine introduced in 2018. This move has significantly lowered costs and streamlined manufacturer integration, making Ram’s return a far less complex endeavor compared to its past NASCAR involvement.

While official details on which teams would run Ram trucks remain unclear, a return to the grid would add a fourth manufacturer alongside Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, creating a more competitive landscape in the series.

Dodge’s Cup Series Comeback: 2028 in Sight? – 

Beyond Ram’s potential Truck Series reentry, discussions are heating up about Dodge returning to the NASCAR Cup Series by 2028. The last time Dodge competed in the Cup Series was in 2012, when Brad Keselowski captured the championship for Team Penske in the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge. However, Dodge was unable to secure a long-term commitment from a top-tier team and exited the sport ahead of the 2013 season.

Now, multiple reports suggest Dodge is evaluating engine suppliers for a Cup Series return. With NASCAR’s Next Gen platform in full effect since 2022 and discussions about further cost-reduction measures in the sport, the timing could be ideal for Dodge to rejoin the field.

Which Team Would Lead Dodge’s Return? – 

Several teams have been rumored as potential partners for Dodge’s return, but one organization stands out: Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing (RFK Racing).

Originally founded as Roush Racing, the team has been a longtime Ford competitor. However, RFK Racing has shown signs of resurgence since Brad Keselowski became a co-owner in 2022. Given Keselowski’s deep ties to Dodge—his father raced Dodges in multiple NASCAR series and the driver himself grew up in Michigan near the Chrysler Technical Center—the connection is natural.

Additionally, RFK Racing operates Roush-Yates Engines, a well-established engine program that could serve as a foundation for Dodge’s NASCAR Cup Series efforts. If Dodge were to align with RFK Racing, it would provide the brand with an experienced and competitive team capable of making an immediate impact upon its return.

What’s Next?

As of now, Ram’s application for the Truck Series is under review, and NASCAR has not made any official announcements. Meanwhile, Dodge’s Cup Series return remains in the rumor stage, but industry insiders believe that if the manufacturer secures the right technical partnerships, a 2028 reentry is a real possibility.

The next few months could be crucial in determining whether Ram and Dodge officially return to NASCAR competition. With fan anticipation growing and industry sources hinting at behind-the-scenes negotiations, all eyes are on what could be a historic comeback for the two brands.

Stay tuned as more details emerge.

Source: CatchFence.com