Speculation surrounding Ty Dillon's future at Kaulig Racing continues to grow, but Chris Rice insists that no decisions have been made regarding the driver's future beyond the current Cup season.

Speaking on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Rice clarified that the team's priority remains improving its on-track performance in 2026 rather than looking too far ahead.

“We have not had any conversation. So all the noise around that we, he and I had, we've talked a little bit about what the future looks like. We're working on a big project for everybody, and I'll just tell you, he and I have not had any conversations about 2027. Where are we? We're in 2026, 2027. What we've talked about is getting better this year. We've talked about what's happening right now, that we're only in July.”

The comments come amid increasing paddock speculation that Kaulig Racing could make significant changes ahead of the 2027 season. Rumors have linked the organization to Dodge's anticipated return to the NASCAR Cup Series, as many believe that switching from current partner Chevrolet could change the team's driver lineup, potentially leaving Dillon without a seat. 

Although Rice did not address those rumors on SiriusXM NASCAR directly, he reiterated that Dillon's contract situation is nothing new. The 34-year-old has traditionally raced on one-year agreements with Kaulig, as per Rice. 

When asked about a timeline for deciding, Rice said, “Oh, absolutely. I think you're looking at somewhere in August, probably first (week) of August, something like that. And he knows that, that's exactly what it states. And everybody knows that.”

What is currently a challenge for Dodge to re-enter Cup?

On the Door Bumper Clear podcast, Rice discussed the buzz surrounding Dodge’s anticipated return to the Cup Series, stating that there are technical and logistical hurdles that need to be overcome. 

Rice feels that the primary obstacle for Dodge re-entering the Cup Series is the lack of an engine development programme.

“Are we working through it? I actually had a call earlier that was focused on engines when we were preparing for the race. That's what the vibration was about; I have to meet with them this afternoon. Engines are indeed the problem." 

"Are they coming back to NASCAR? I can tell you right now that Kaulig Racing — Matt Kaulig, Chris Rice, and everyone there — would love to have them back. Yes, as fast as we can go, getting them in the sport would be fantastic for everyone involved: Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota. More manufacturers in the mix would be great for selling cars. But the engine remains the issue. Many people have reached out, saying they can build an engine, but it’s not that easy.” 

Read more at RFK Racing Digest!  

Written by

Aaradhya Singh

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar