Dodge will return to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027, one year earlier than originally planned, the Stellantis-owned brand announced Monday at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The move will bring the number of manufacturers in the Cup Series to four, alongside Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota.
Kaulig Racing is slated to operate a two-car team using the Dodge Charger, with the team expected to begin competing at the Daytona 500. AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon are reportedly set to drive for the team.
"Dodge’s return to the NASCAR Cup Series is a significant milestone for the sport," NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell said in a statement. "This commitment speaks to Dodge’s belief in our sport and gives fans another reason to be excited about what’s ahead."
Dodge previously competed in NASCAR until the 2012 season, leaving after Brad Keselowski and Penske Racing secured the Cup title that year. Dodge had re-entered the NASCAR Truck Series with its Ram brand in 2026 with aspirations of moving to the Cup Series in 2028.
To accelerate its return, Dodge partnered with Earnhardt Childress Racing to develop Dodge-spec engines, bypassing some of the typical development timeline. Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota reportedly agreed to this arrangement, recognizing the potential benefit of a fourth manufacturer for the health of the racing series.