Ryan Newman is set to make his long‑awaited return to NASCAR competition at the FaithFest 250, scheduled for July 18 at North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina. He will climb into the RAM/Kaulig Racing No. 25 'Free Agent' truck, a vehicle that has seen a carousel of drivers since its debut and whose best result to date is a sixth‑place finish by AJ Allmendinger at Watkins Glen.
Newman's most recent full‑time NASCAR start came in 2023 with Rick Ware Racing, and his last race before that was in 2020, when a severe crash at the Daytona 500 sidelined him for roughly three months. Since then he has kept a foothold in motorsport through the Whelen and SMART Modified Tours, staying sharp for this comeback.
The veteran's return is part of a broader promotional push by RAM Trucks, the brand that is re‑entering the NASCAR ecosystem with a rotating driver lineup that includes names such as Tony Stewart, Clint Bowyer, Travis Pastrana and Jamie McMurray.
The move also sparked a nod from fellow competitor Ryan Blaney, who raced a paint scheme honoring Newman's 2020 Daytona 500‑winning colors at Pocono Raceway on June 14, underscoring the respect Newman commands across the sport.
A veteran’s new chapter
Fans can expect a blend of experience and fresh energy as Newman brings his decades‑long track record to a truck series that has evolved dramatically in recent years. His presence not only adds star power but also serves as a reminder of the sport's deep roots and its ongoing evolution.