Kaulig Racing has named a replacement for suspended Truck Series driver Daniel Dye ahead of this weekend’s race at Darlington Raceway. The No. 10 Ram will have AJ Allmendinger behind the wheel for Friday’s Buckle Up South Carolina 200.
The move follows an indefinite suspension issued to Dye by both NASCAR and Kaulig Racing earlier this week. The penalty came after comments made during a livestream drew attention and review from NASCAR officials.
With the season still early and the team sitting inside the top 15 in points, Kaulig acted quickly to keep its program on track. Allmendinger, a full-time Cup Series driver for the team, steps into the role with experience across multiple series.
— Kaulig Racing (@KauligRacing) March 18, 2026
AJ Allmendinger Steps Into No. 10 Truck
Allmendinger will make his first oval Truck Series start in 18 years. His last Truck Series appearance came in 2021 at Watkins Glen. Earlier in his career, he recorded a best finish of second at Charlotte in 2007.
The 44-year-old driver competes full-time in the Cup Series in Kaulig Racing’s No. 16 car. He has experience on both road courses and ovals. That background played a role in the team’s decision to place him in the truck for Darlington.
Darlington Raceway is known for its narrow racing groove and tire wear. Drivers must manage pace and avoid contact with the wall. Allmendinger finished fifth in the Cup race at Darlington last year, which shows his comfort level at the track.
Daniel Dye Suspension Details
Dye received an indefinite suspension after a livestream clip spread online. In the video, he mocked injured IndyCar driver David Malukas and used what he called a “David Malukas gay voice.” NASCAR ruled that the comments violated its conduct policy on disparaging language related to sexual orientation.
According to NASCAR, Dye must complete sensitivity training before he can be considered for reinstatement.
Dye entered the fourth race of the season ranked 13th in the Craftsman Truck Series standings. He has made 49 starts in the series since 2023 and has two top-five finishes.
Kaulig Racing Focuses on Competition
Kaulig Racing moved quickly to avoid losing ground in the standings. The No. 10 truck has shown speed early in the season, and the team remains in position to compete for a playoff spot.
Allmendinger’s experience gives the team a steady option while Dye is out. His ability to adapt to different cars and tracks adds value during this period.
The race weekend at Darlington includes practice and qualifying on Friday, March 20, followed by the evening race broadcast on FS1. Allmendinger will aim to keep the No. 10 team competitive at one of NASCAR’s most difficult tracks.
The situation also highlights NASCAR’s enforcement of its conduct rules. The sanctioning body continues to review driver actions both on and off the track.
Daniel Dye’s Suspension Forces Sudden Kaulig Move as Allmendinger Steps In