Kaulig Racing tabbed reigning ARCA Menards Series champion Brenden “Butterbean” Queen as its first RAM truck driver for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season, the team announced Thursday. Queen is the first of five drivers to be revealed for Kaulig’s RAM-backed NCTS lineup.
“A big thanks to Matt Kaulig, Chris Rice, RAM, and everyone at Kaulig Racing for this opportunity,” said Queen in a team release. “I’m just a short-track kid who’s worked hard every day, never really knowing if I’d ever make it to this level. I’m very thankful for this chance and can’t wait to get rolling with RAM and Kaulig Racing. The goals are simple: build a winning team and chase championships.”
Queen earned the role after winning eight races and scoring 17 top-five finishes in the 2025 AMS campaign, ultimately securing the championship. He also impressed in Kaulig Racing’s No. 11 Xfinity Series entry, finishing ninth and leading eight laps at Kansas in one of his two starts. Kaulig announced earlier this week Queen would finish out the NXS season behind the wheel of the No. 11.
“It’s been amazing to see what Brenden is capable of, from winning multiple championships at his local short track to his dominant ARCA championship season,” said Chris Rice, CEO of Kaulig Racing. “He’s proven he deserves this opportunity, and we can’t wait to see what he does in the Truck Series next year.”
Details about Queen’s truck number and partners will be announced later.
