NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver Daniel Dye is set to return to competition after serving an indefinite suspension, but he will not be returning to Kaulig Racing. According to a report by Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic, Dye has completed the requirements tied to his suspension and is now eligible to compete as early as this weekend at Rockingham Speedway.
However, the same report states that Kaulig Racing and its partner RAM Trucks have decided to move forward with a different driver in the No. 10 entry. The development ends Dye’s short run with the team after three starts to begin the 2026 season.
Daniel Dye Reinstated by NASCAR After Suspension
Dye’s suspension began on March 17 following comments made during a livestream. NASCAR required him to complete sensitivity training before returning. That process has now been completed, clearing him to compete again in NASCAR-sanctioned events.
Following news of his reinstatement, Daniel Dye released a public statement addressing his departure from Kaulig Racing and his next steps.
“I’m incredibly thankful for my time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and for the chance to compete with Kaulig Racing alongside some of the most passionate fans in motorsports. At this time, I am stepping away from that role.
NASCAR has played a meaningful role in my development, and I don’t take that opportunity lightly.
After a lot of honest self-reflection and guidance from mentors I trust, I’ve decided the smartest move for my career is to realign my focus on my long-term objective of becoming a successful driver at the highest level of stock car racing.
Now that I’m reinstated, I’m optimistic about the future, hold onto hope, and look forward to working hard at my next opportunity.
This sport and its fans mean everything to me, and I can’t wait to get back to it focused on the real goal more than ever.”
This marks the second time Dye has faced disciplinary action in his career. In 2022, he was suspended following an arrest tied to a battery charge. That case was later resolved after he completed the required programs.
Kaulig Racing Moves On From No. 10 Driver
Despite being cleared to return, Dye will not rejoin Kaulig Racing. The team has chosen to take a different approach with its No. 10 truck for the remainder of the season.
Dye made three starts with Kaulig Racing in 2026 and recorded a best finish of 13th. The team entered the season with an expanded lineup as part of its partnership with RAM Trucks, fielding multiple entries in the series.
Kaulig Racing also confirmed the change in a public statement:
“Kaulig Racing has accepted Daniel Dye’s resignation, and we wish him great success in the pursuit of his personal and professional goals.”
The report also indicates that Corey LaJoie is the leading candidate to take over the No. 10 truck on a full-time basis. He is already scheduled to drive another Kaulig entry at Rockingham and is part of the organization’s broader driver program.
A final decision on the seat has not yet been announced. An interim driver is expected to handle duties in the short term while the team finalizes its plans.
Driver Market Shifts Ahead of Rockingham Weekend
Kaulig Racing entered the 2026 season with several full-time drivers, including Brenden Queen, Justin Haley, and Timothy Tyrrell. With the No. 10 seat now open, the team must adjust its lineup ahead of the next race weekend.
Dye is now free to pursue other opportunities within NASCAR following his reinstatement. His return to eligibility allows him to compete with other teams if a deal is secured.
As the series heads to Rockingham, the focus will remain on who fills the No. 10 truck and how quickly Kaulig Racing finalizes its driver plans. The situation adds another change to the early part of the 2026 season as teams continue to adjust their lineups.
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