Tony Stewart will return to NASCAR racing for the first time since 2016 at Daytona next month.
The three-time Cup Series champion will drive the 'free agent program' No. 25 Kaulig Racing Ram truck in Florida, making a one-off appearance to launch the innovative Kaulig and Ram program.
The No. 25 truck will have a rotating cast of free agent drivers throughout the year, including – the team have insisted – a number of legends of the sport, with 'Smoke' being the first of those.
Stewart has won 19 races at Daytona, but this will be his first Truck Series appearance there, and his first Truck Series drive of any kind since 2006.
Tony Stewart excited for first Truck race at Daytona
In a press release, Stewart said: “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. Ram’s Free Agent program is another great way for me to stay sharp and have a little fun.”
Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis added: “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.
"This is about honoring a legacy. Tony represents grit, determination, and the spirit of racing – pure adrenaline for the fans.”
Kaulig founder and owner Matt Kaulig concluded: "Having Tony Stewart in one of our Ram trucks is the kind of thing you dream about. 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."
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