Dodge Eyes NASCAR Cup Series Return by 2027
In a recent appearance on Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour podcast, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis revealed the manufacturer’s ambitious plans for a return to NASCAR’s Cup Series, potentially as early as 2027. Kuniskis, who previously served as CEO of Dodge under Stellantis, confirmed that Ram will re-enter the Truck Series in 2026, setting the stage for a Cup debut shortly thereafter.
“Coming into Truck is a lot easier than coming into Cup,” Kuniskis stated. He emphasized the challenge of re-entering the Cup Series, highlighting that, while others have suggested it may take two years for preparation, he is advocating for a more accelerated timeline. “The goal is to get to Cup a year after our Truck return,” Kuniskis noted, expressing hope for a presence at Daytona in both 2026 and 2027.
Dodge last competed in the Cup Series at the end of the 2012 season, concluding its time in the sport with a championship title through Brad Keselowski and Team Penske. Since then, Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota have remained the only manufacturers in the top tier.
Kuniskis acknowledged missed opportunities to return in the past decade but is optimistic about Ram’s future involvement. “It’s been way too long,” he remarked.
NASCAR’s executive vice president, John Probst, previously indicated that a minimum of 18 months is required for preparing a new Cup entry, further complicating Kuniskis’s timeline ambitions. As of now, specific details regarding Ram’s plans for the Truck Series in 2026—including affiliations with teams and drivers—remain undisclosed.
The motorsports community awaits further updates from Ram as they gear up for their return to the competitive scene.
