Dodge evaluating Nascar Cup Series return ‘as early as 2027’

US-based manufacturer would first race in third-tier Truck Series from next season to build familiarity.

February 24, 2025
Cian Brittle

Dodge last raced in the Cup Series between 2001 and 2012
Honda also heavily linked with an entry to Nascar’s premier series
Japanese manufacturer rumoured to be exiting IndyCar after 2026

US auto manufacturer Dodge is evaluating a return to the Nascar Cup Series as early as the 2027 season, according to The Athletic.

Dodge has reportedly begun the process of gaining Nascar’s formal approval to join Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota in the third-tier Truck Series as soon as next season. This would then evolve into a full entry to the top-tier Cup Series in either 2027 or 2028, which would replicate how it last joined the Nascar field.

Dodge competed in the Cup Series between 2001 and 2012 before departing due to financial difficulties, but it had raced in the Truck Series since 1995 in order to build familiarity.

Manufacturers no longer need to build their own engines as Nascar teams use a standardised engine constructed by Ilmor, which means a more financially friendly environment for Dodge compared to the one it left over a decade ago.

There is not expected to be any obstacles to Nascar approving Dodge’s entry, with the series intent on adding a fourth manufacturer to its premier series.

However, it is not just Dodge vying for the coveted fourth slot with Honda also heavily linked. The Japanese manufacturer seems set to leave IndyCar after its contract expires at the end of the 2026 season, with Racer reporting that the company is ‘nine toes out the door’.

This move would free up Honda to enter the Nascar Cup Series, though both it and Dodge have been linked to Cup Series entries for some time without any meaningful progress.

Looking to unlock more exclusive insights and strategic connections in the motorsport industry?

The BlackBook Motorsport Forum is the destination that connects and inspires top decision-makers and leaders across global motorsport. Join us in London on 27th March 2025 to dissect the critical balance between on and off-track performance, exploring areas such as technical innovation, sustainability and commercial success. Discover more here.