Ram CEO Aims for Dodge to Join NASCAR Cup Series by 2027

Ram could make a major return to top-level NASCAR competition in just a few years. Tim Kuniskis, Ram CEO and the former head of Dodge for Stellantis, has shared that Dodge is aiming to rejoin the NASCAR Cup Series by 2027.

Speaking on Kevin Harvick’s “Happy Hour” podcast, Kuniskis described how plans are already moving forward, with Ram recently confirming it will re-enter the NASCAR Truck Series for the 2026 season.

According to Kuniskis, joining the Truck Series will happen first because entering Cup requires more time and preparation. He explained that, while launching a Truck Series entry is easier, the goal is to get Dodge back to the Cup Series just one year after the Truck debut.

The team is optimistic but realistic, as Kuniskis remains hopeful for a 2027 Cup return but said the exact timeline is still being worked out.

Dodge has not competed in the NASCAR Cup Series since 2012. At the time, they left the sport on a high note, winning the championship with Brad Keselowski and Team Penske.

Since then, only Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota have fielded entries at NASCAR’s top level. Over the last 12 years, there were other chances for Dodge to re-enter, but those opportunities did not turn into real programs.

Kuniskis stated that “It’s been way too long” and emphasized how much the brand wants to be back. The details regarding which teams or drivers might represent Ram or Dodge in 2026 have not been released.

When asked about development speed, Kuniskis mentioned that Dodge has some advantages from its legacy in NASCAR that may help make preparations faster. While he’s pushing for an aggressive timeline, he acknowledged that experts, including NASCAR executive vice president John Probst, say building a Cup Series program requires patience and at least 18 months to do it properly.

Ram and Dodge have deep roots in American motorsports and strong connections with racing fans. Their return is seen by many as a significant boost for NASCAR, which has maintained only three manufacturers at the top level for over a decade.

With the Truck Series entry confirmed for 2026, anticipation is building about whether Ram will be able to meet its ambitious target and line up on the Cup Series grid at Daytona in 2027. While specific partnerships and team announcements are still in the works, excitement is already growing among fans and industry observers.

As Ram prepares for its Truck Series comeback next year, all eyes will be on their progress and official updates, as supporters hope this turns into a full-fledged return to the Cup Series the following season. The push to bring Dodge back into Cup racing signals a new chapter for the iconic American brand.

This mirrors broader racing narratives seen recently, such as the discussions around team orders and strategy in other motorsports.

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.