The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the adrenaline rush of pushing a 600+ horsepower machine to its limits—these are the intoxicating elements that have captivated Chris Rice for over 30 years in the world of NASCAR. From humble beginnings as a gasman in the Busch Grand National Series, Rice ascended to the prestigious role of President at Kaulig Racing in 2018, shaping the organization’s future with his decades of experience and unwavering passion. But did the fire to compete behind a wheel ever truly fade for the icon?

Back in 1989, a young Rice established himself, working alongside Hermie Sadler in the now Xfinity Series, who became Rookie of the Year in 1993. Rice’s talent was evident, and he soon transitioned to crew chief, leading Hermie’s iconic brother Elliott Sadler to a championship in 1995. He was associated with Richard Petty Motorsports and went on to work with Bill Davis Racing for brief stints in the early 2000s. Moreover, he established himself in every NASCAR national series, guiding over 18 drivers in a career spanning three decades.

Will Chris Rice take the wheel?

Rice sparked speculation recently with a playful tweet hinting at his desire to race again. While the team recently announced Derek Kraus for the Cup Series, fans wonder if another “racer” within Kaulig might be ready to floor the gas.

Despite his transition through every leadership role in the garage, Rice’s love for racing never wavered. “I think I’m ready to drive a Mini Stock again!” he declared, tagging his father, who had previously provided him with a fast car. “#arice1972 had me a fast one years ago. Does anybody have one ready and fast??”

The tweet, seemingly lighthearted, sparked a wave of speculation. Could the president of Kaulig Racing be yearning to return to the track and reignite his competitive spirit? Fans were quick to voice their opinions, with some playfully suggesting he jump in one of the team’s Xfinity cars.

Kaulig Racing President Takes a Shot at the Big Dogs as NASCAR Levels the Field

One particularly humorous comment came from a fan: “Just hop in one of your Xfinity cars, Dinger won’t mind.” Dinger, of course, refers to A.J. Allmendinger, the part-time as well as full-time driver for #16 cars for Kaulig Racing in the Cup Series and Xfinity Series, respectively. But while a Rice comeback is just comedic speculations, for now, the team has made other exciting announcements.

Kaulig Racing Heats the Track with a Busy Driver Rotation

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Derek Kraus, a 22-year-old promising young talent will make his Cup Series debut part-time for Kaulig Racing in the #16 Camaro ZL1 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, adding another layer to Kaulig’s already diverse lineup. This move showcases the team’s willingness to nurture young talent alongside established veterans like

Allmendinger. With the announcement of an occasional third car in certain races, it will be interesting to see the strategies Chris Rice and Matt Kaulig have in store for the 2024 season. The Xfinity Series promises to be an absolute spectacle as well, with the formidable trio of Allmendinger, Chicago Street Race winner Shane van Gisbergen, and an in-form Josh Williams.

One thing’s for sure, however. Kaulig Racing always keeps everyone guessing. With a mix of experienced veterans, rising stars, and international talent, their driver rotation is a recipe for excitement. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a season filled with unexpected twists, thrilling performances, and maybe even a surprise appearance from the president himself!

NASCAR Update: Kaulig Racing to Field Derek Kraus in Select Cup Series Races