Ram Is Transforming the Search for Its Next NASCAR Driver into a Reality Show.

      Ram, edited by the author

      The latest car news and reviews, straightforward and to the point

      Our complimentary daily newsletter delivers the most important stories straight to you every weekday.

      In June, Ram made headlines by announcing its return to NASCAR, generating a lot of excitement that may also set the stage for Dodge’s re-entry into stock car racing. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis indicated that there would be more to come with their comeback in the Craftsman Truck Series. It has since been revealed that he was referring to a Fox reality series where 15 drivers will vie for a coveted spot on a NASCAR team.

      The show, titled Race for the Seat, boasts prominent figures such as UFC CEO Dana White and Thrill Sports Productions, which is the parent company of Nitro Circus and Power Slap (the competition series many love to cringe at). White and Kuniskis will regularly appear on the show alongside Matt Kaulig, the owner of Kaulig Racing Team. They will provide insights behind the scenes while the 15 selected drivers compete at venues like Virginia International Raceway and South Boston Speedway, with actor Jacob Lofland from Landman serving as the host.

      That’s Tim, by the way. Ram Ram

      The Drive spoke briefly with Kuniskis about the series. He’s quite passionate, especially regarding trucks and V8 engines, and his enthusiasm for this series is evident.

      “The interesting thing about NASCAR is that, if you look closely, there are probably 350 to 400 individuals certified to race,” Kuniskis stated. “Talent has never been the issue. There is plenty of talent available; it’s really about who gets the chance to break into a competitive environment like NASCAR.

      “When you have so many contenders and need to narrow it down to 15, it allows for a diverse group of individuals, much like any reality show. You consider, ‘Who’s the straight-edge guy? Who’s the hothead? Who’s the comedian? Who’s the fiercest competitor? What will make for the best television?’”

      Kuniskis noted that he isn’t the right person for that task, adding, “I don’t know sh*t about that.” Thankfully, they partnered with White, Thrill Sports, and executive producer Craig Piligian of The Ultimate Fighter to curate a select group of drivers.

      We still don’t have the names of the contestants, but they will likely be announced during the premiere of Race for the Seat on Fox on January 12 at noon ET. The winner will have the opportunity to race with Brenden Queen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley at Kaulig Racing during the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season. For what it’s worth, Kaulig also has an additional truck set aside for a rotating roster of free agent drivers.

      Ram

      Lastly, Kuniskis confirmed that more than one season of Race for the Seat is planned. “We signed a multi-year agreement, so we’ll be doing this year, and next year, and the year after that — it’s going to become a regular occurrence,” he clarified. “On top of that, there will be the free agent truck, which will feature a different driver each weekend. I believe we’re returning to the sport in a very intriguing way.”

      Have a tip or question for the author? Reach out directly: [email protected]