The rumors are no longer whispers—NASCAR might be on the verge of welcoming a new manufacturer back to the sport. After years of speculation, the return of Dodge to NASCAR’s top series may finally be happening.
For over a decade, NASCAR has been locked into a three-manufacturer battle between Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota. But now, according to NASCAR President Steve Phelps, a new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is “close” to joining—and all signs point to Dodge making a dramatic comeback.
“We have an OE that is close,” Phelps recently hinted, sending NASCAR fans into a frenzy.
Dodge’s Path Back to NASCAR—A Return Through the Truck Series?
While an official announcement has yet to be made, reports confirm that NASCAR has received a formal submission from a manufacturer to join the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026.
And all signs suggest that Dodge is the frontrunner.
- The use of the Ilmor spec engine in the Truck Series provides an easy pathway for new manufacturers to enter NASCAR.
- NASCAR’s cost-cutting measures make the entry more appealing for brands hesitant to commit to a full Cup Series program.
- A Truck Series entry could be Dodge’s testing ground, allowing them to evaluate a return to the Cup Series in the future.
If Dodge enters the Truck Series in 2026, could we see Dodge Challengers roaring through Cup Series tracks by 2027 or 2028? The possibility is stronger than ever.
A Legacy of Power: Dodge’s Storied NASCAR History
Dodge’s NASCAR legacy stretches back to the 1950s, with legendary names like Lee Petty, Richard Petty, and Bill Elliott flying its banner.
- 1953 – Lee Petty delivers Dodge’s first NASCAR victory.
- 1954 – Petty captures Dodge’s first Cup Series championship.
- 1960s – The iconic 426 Hemi engine makes Dodge virtually unbeatable—until NASCAR bans it, leading to the brand’s first exit from the sport.
- 2001 – After nearly two decades away, Dodge makes a high-profile return with Bill Elliott behind the wheel of the No. 9 Dodge. Elliott wins the 2002 Brickyard 400, signaling Dodge’s rebirth in NASCAR.
- 2012 – Brad Keselowski wins Dodge’s last Cup Series championship, but with Penske switching to Ford in 2013, Dodge loses its strongest team and exits NASCAR once again.
Now, over a decade later, Dodge may finally be gearing up for another comeback.
Why Now? What’s Driving Dodge’s Possible NASCAR Return?
The timing makes perfect sense for Dodge’s return, and here’s why:
✅ NASCAR’s push for sustainability and hybrid technology is aligning with Stellantis’ vision—Dodge’s parent company is investing heavily in electrification. NASCAR’s future hybrid plans may play a role in luring Dodge back.
✅ Cost-cutting measures have made it easier and more financially viable for manufacturers to join NASCAR. Unlike the expensive development costs of the early 2000s, Dodge now has a smoother entry point.
✅ Dodge’s success in NHRA and sports car racing proves they still want a strong motorsports presence—and NASCAR offers a massive platform for brand exposure.
✅ The Truck Series serves as a “soft launch”—just as Toyota entered through Trucks before expanding to Cup in 2007, Dodge could follow the same blueprint.
Will Dodge’s Return Shake Up NASCAR’s Big Three?
If Dodge re-enters NASCAR, it won’t just be for show—they’re here to compete. But who will they partner with?
- Penske, Dodge’s last championship-winning team, is locked in with Ford.
- Richard Childress Racing and Hendrick Motorsports are Chevrolet strongholds.
- Joe Gibbs Racing is deeply tied to Toyota.
Could we see Dodge align with a rising team like Trackhouse Racing or 23XI? Or will they try to rebuild an alliance with a past partner like Petty GMS (now LEGACY MOTOR CLUB)?
One thing is clear: if Dodge comes back, it will shake up the entire NASCAR landscape.
When Will We Get Official Confirmation?
While no formal announcement has been made, the buzz surrounding Dodge’s return is at an all-time high.
With NASCAR’s Truck Series submission already in the works, we could hear an official confirmation within months.
If Dodge is indeed the new manufacturer, expect a formal reveal later in 2025, with their Truck Series debut in 2026, and possibly a Cup Series return by 2027.
NASCAR’s “Big Three” might not be a trio for much longer.
Dodge is coming.
And when they do, they’re coming for trophies.
