Ty Dillon and Kaulig Racing are still discussing a possible return for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, according to a new report from Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports. The update sheds light on an under-the-radar negotiation that could see Dillon continue with the team for a second straight year.
NASCAR Stability Could Mark a Shift for Ty Dillon
If Dillon returns to Kaulig Racing in 2026, it will be his first back-to-back season with one team since 2020. That year, he ran a full season with Germain Racing. The team shut down after the season ended. Since then, Dillon has driven for multiple teams. He has competed across all three of NASCAR’s national series.
In 2021, Dillon raced part-time in Xfinity and Cup. He went full-time with Petty-GMS in 2022 and Spire Motorsports in 2023. In 2024, he split time across all three national series. Most of his Truck races came with Rackley W.A.R.
His path shows how tough it’s been to find long-term stability. A new deal with Kaulig Racing could change that. It would also build on a strong showing in 2025.
Dillon has shown signs of strong form since joining Kaulig Racing. His average starting position this year is 23.1, the best of his career. His average finish is 22.5, which ranks fourth among his seven full-time Cup Series seasons. These numbers suggest Dillon is not just filling a seat but producing some of his most consistent performances.
His performance is especially notable given that Kaulig Racing currently runs only two full-time entries — Dillon in the No. 10 and A. J. Allmendinger in the No. 16. In a sport where teams are constantly evaluating their lineups for competitive edge, Dillon’s form could help his case.
While Dillon’s future remains under discussion, Kaulig Racing has already confirmed that Allmendinger will return in 2026. That confirmation came via Team President Chris Rice. Securing one half of the driver lineup early could give the team room to finalize the second seat with less urgency, which might explain the quiet nature of the talks with Dillon.
Pockrass wrote, “NASCAR’s silly season is quiet so far … but it’s only June.” That framing broods how the 2026 driver market has not yet seen the kind of shakeups or early announcements typical of some NASCAR years. In that environment, teams may be taking a more deliberate approach to contract renewals.
Pockrass expanded on the note in an article for FOX Sports, writing: “Kaulig Racing with AJ Allmendinger (19th in the standings) and Ty Dillon (30th) is trending toward having its same stable. Allmendinger is pretty much locked in and talks continue on a Dillon renewal.”
NASCAR’s silly season is quiet so far … but it’s only June @NASCARONFOX https://t.co/dyCXHZRtc8
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) June 9, 2025
Although nothing is finalized, all indications from the report suggest optimism. Dillon’s recent performance, the confirmation of Allmendinger’s return, and the language in the report indicate that both sides are moving toward an agreement.
For Dillon, a return would mean a rare second year with the same Cup Series team. For Kaulig, it could provide lineup stability heading into 2026. A benefit not to be overlooked in a sport where consistency can translate to on-track success.
