Dodge announces its return to the NASCAR Cup Series beginning at the Daytona 500

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Dodge is returning to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027, a year earlier than initially expected.The Stellantis-owned Dodge brand announced its return at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas on Monday.Dodge will once again give the Cup Series four manufacturers, joining Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota in fielding entries to compete in a 36-race schedule that begins in mid-February and crowns a champion in early November.Kaulig Racing will use the Dodge Charger to field a two-car team beginning at the Daytona 500. AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon are expected to fill those seats.“Dodge’s return to the NASCAR Cup Series is a significant milestone for the sport,” NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell said in a statement. “This commitment speaks to Dodge’s belief in our sport and gives fans another reason to be excited about what’s ahead.“The partnership between NASCAR, (Ram CEO) Tim Kuniskis and the entire team at Stellantis has been nothing short of phenomenal. They have a deep passion for NASCAR and its