As the NASCAR Cup Series hurtles toward its final stretch, Kaulig Racing has turned its attention to Iowa Speedway, a 0.875‑mile oval that rewards mechanical grip and driver feedback over aerodynamic refinement. The team, the only full‑time Cup operation running without a technical alliance, sees the upcoming race as a chance to showcase its independent engineering approach.
A Short‑Track Challenge Unlike Any Other
AJ Allmendinger, who last contested the track in 2025 and finished 18th, is back for his third Cup start. In 2026 he has already logged a top‑five finish and three top‑tens with the No. 16 Campers Inn RV Chevrolet, indicating that the team’s short‑track package is beginning to click.
Ty Dillon, meanwhile, brings a wealth of experience from the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and the Truck Series, where he has collected four top‑five finishes in six starts and multiple top‑10 results. His No. 10 entry will be anchored by sponsor Seabest, adding commercial weight to the effort.
Crew chief Andrew Dickeson believes the track’s unique layout aligns perfectly with Dillon’s driving style, noting that the emphasis on mechanical grip should play to the driver’s strengths in setup communication.
Iowa’s layout, with its tight turns and modest banking, forces teams to dial in suspension and chassis settings that differ markedly from superspeedways and intermediate tracks. For an independent outfit like Kaulig Racing, mastering those nuances can provide a competitive edge that offsets the lack of factory backing.
The upcoming race will be a litmus test for the team’s strategy as the season’s playoff picture begins to crystallize. A strong showing could cement their position heading into the Chase and underscore the viability of a stand‑alone program in today’s highly networked sport.