NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver Daniel Dye issued a public apology on March 17, 2026, after comments from a livestream drew backlash online. The remarks involved IndyCar driver David Malukas and spread across social media soon after the stream ended.
Daniel Dye made the comments while opening trading cards on the Whatnot platform and recalling a past interaction. Later that day, he shared a written apology on X.
Within hours, NASCAR and Kaulig Racing announced his indefinite suspension. Officials said he must complete sensitivity training before he can return. As of now, Malukas and his team have not made any public statement on the matter.
Daniel Dye Apologizes for Livestream Comments
Daniel Dye addressed Malukas directly in his statement. “I want to first apologize to David Malukas. I recently went on a live stream with some friends and made some careless comments. I chose my words poorly, and I understand why it upset people. I’m sorry to anyone who was offended. That’s not how I want to represent myself.”
He also spoke about accountability. “I didn’t think enough before I spoke, and I in no way meant any harm. I know that intention does not erase impact, and I need to do better.”
Daniel Dye said he will work on his actions going forward. “I’m taking this seriously and working on being more aware and respectful moving forward.”
— Daniel Dye (@danieldye43) March 17, 2026
NASCAR and Kaulig Racing Take Action
Kaulig Racing suspended Daniel Dye after the clip circulated online. NASCAR followed with the same decision later that day.
— Kaulig Racing (@KauligRacing) March 17, 2026
Both confirmed that Dye’s return depends on completing sensitivity training. This step is part of standard conduct procedures in recent years.
Daniel Dye drives the No. 10 RAM truck in the series. His suspension removes him from the current lineup until further notice.
What Happened During the Livestream
On March 17, 2026, Daniel Dye was streaming on the shopping platform Whatnot, opening trading cards with friends. While telling a story about meeting David Malukas, Dye did an impression and used the phrase “David Malukas gay voice.”
Daniel said in the clip that, “He was like, ‘Oh my gosh, yes, we race Indianapolis, love Indianapolis, and Roger Penske, I love Roger. Love you, Roger.’”
He also joked that Malukas “plays for the other team.” The clip spread quickly across social media.
Livestream Clip Spreads Quickly Online
The incident happened during a casual livestream session on Whatnot. Dye spoke about Malukas and used language that drew criticism from viewers.
Clips of the moment appeared across social media platforms, including Reddit’s NASCAR community. Users reacted quickly and called for action from both the team and the sanctioning body.
Malukas, who drives for Team Penske, has not commented publicly. The focus remains on Daniel Dye’s suspension and the required steps before any return to competition.
Daniel Dye Apologizes After Livestream Backlash as NASCAR Steps In