When Stellantis revealed its intention to pursue what it called a “Ram-demption” in the Truck Series for the 2026 season, many saw it as a clear sign that Dodge could soon make a comeback to the Cup Series after more than ten years away. However, news on that possibility had been scarce over the past year, mainly due to challenges surrounding engine development and aerodynamic design, which posed significant obstacles to Dodge’s return to top-tier NASCAR racing on a tight timeline. That situation took a major turn on Thursday.

According to a report by Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic, Dodge could be back in the Cup Series as early as 2027. This would mean the brand would effectively skip two levels to re-enter NASCAR’s premier category within just eight months.

Bianchi, referencing “multiple industry sources familiar with the matter,” mentioned that the automaker is now “increasingly likely” to rejoin the series next year after Dodge’s parent company recently achieved a breakthrough in engine production strategies. Considering the complex and well-established engine programs already operated by Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota, this development indicates that Dodge may either plan to acquire an existing engine program or accelerate its own setup to competitive readiness within a few months.

When Dodge eventually returns, it is expected to field a car body resembling the current two-door Charger powered by the Hurricane inline-six engine. The vehicle’s design will need to secure NASCAR approval through a detailed review process designed to maintain aerodynamic balance among all participating manufacturers. Bianchi also noted that this proposed body design “has already undergone initial wind tunnel testing.”

Kaulig Racing, the team selected to manage the five-truck Ram program in the Truck Series, is anticipated to become Dodge’s primary factory partner when it re-enters the Cup Series in 2027. The team currently holds two of the 36 chartered entries in the Cup Series and fields two Chevrolet-powered cars. If no additional partnerships are formed, Dodge’s return could begin with a modest two-car lineup in a field where many competitors routinely operate a dozen or more cars each weekend. Kaulig Racing has achieved only two Cup Series victories to date—both on road courses with driver AJ Allmendinger—and is not expected to be a major contender for wins during Dodge’s initial comeback season.