Smoke Returns: Tony Stewart Brings Ram Back to Daytona

When NASCAR fans think of Daytona, they think of history, speed, and the biggest names the sport has ever produced. In February 2026, one of those names will once again roll through the infield tunnel — this time in a Ram truck. Tony Stewart, the three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the most versatile racers of his generation, is officially returning to Daytona as part of Ram’s highly anticipated return to NASCAR competition.

Tony Stewart will compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series opener at Daytona International Speedway as the very first driver in Ram’s all-new “Free Agent” program. He’ll suit up with Kaulig Racing, placing one of the sport’s most recognizable figures behind the wheel of a Ram-branded truck for the manufacturer’s first NASCAR race back.

For Stewart, known universally as “Smoke,” the opportunity checks multiple boxes. Daytona has always been a special place for him, with 19 career wins there across NASCAR Cup, the former Busch Series, and IROC. Yet, despite racing almost everything on four wheels, one thing was missing from his résumé — a NASCAR truck at Daytona.

“I’ve raced just about everything with four wheels at Daytona, but never a truck. So when a seat in the new Ram was offered up for their first race back in NASCAR, I didn’t hesitate,” Stewart said. “Ram’s Free Agent program is another great way for me to stay sharp and have a little fun.”

Ram’s Free Agent program is designed to shake up the traditional NASCAR lineup model. Instead of relying solely on full-season drivers, the program allows legendary racers, fan favorites, and emerging talent to step into competitive equipment for select events. Stewart, being the first name attached, sends a clear message about the program’s ambition and credibility.

Tim Kuniskis, Head of American Brands, SRT Performance, and North American Marketing and Retail Strategy at Stellantis, made it clear that this move is about more than simply showing up on the entry list.

“We’re not just returning to the track; we’re rewriting the playbook. Bringing Tony in as the first Free Agent will generate a crazy amount of excitement, which is exactly why we created the program, allowing fans to watch an all-time favorite driver get back into the seat, but this time, it’s a Ram truck,” Kuniskis said. “This is about honoring a legacy. Tony represents grit, determination, and the spirit of racing—pure adrenaline for the fans.”

Kaulig Racing will field five Ram trucks during the 2026 season, marking a significant commitment as Ram re-enters NASCAR. For team owner Matt Kaulig, having Stewart involved from the start is a statement moment.

“Having Tony Stewart in one of our Ram trucks is the kind of thing you dream about,” Kaulig said. “He’s a legend—his name alone brings energy to the sport. We couldn’t be more fired up to have him in our camp as we roll into Daytona for our first race. This is going to be a ride worth watching.”

Stewart’s résumé backs up the hype. Beyond NASCAR, he remains the only driver to win all three USAC national championships in a single year and an IndyCar champion, with Hall of Fame inductions cementing his place in racing history, and now an owner/driver in the NHRA. Now, that legacy adds another chapter — one tied directly to Ram’s return to the NASCAR spotlight.

With Daytona serving as the stage, fans can expect more than just a race. Ram has hinted at exclusive content, special announcements, and immersive experiences tied to the Free Agent program. For Mopar and NASCAR fans alike, February can’t come soon enough.