NASCAR Legend Kevin Harvick Hints at Potential Truck Series Comeback

Harvick teases return to racing following Tony Stewart's announcement of Daytona Truck Series race

Jan. 31, 2026 at 8:31am

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Former NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick hinted at a potential comeback, saying he might race in the Truck Series after hearing that fellow legend Tony Stewart will compete in the 2026 Daytona Truck race. Harvick joked on his podcast that seeing Stewart's return has him "getting the bug again" to get back behind the wheel, though he stopped short of confirming any actual plans.

Why it matters

Harvick's potential return would be a major boost for NASCAR, as the sport looks to capitalize on renewed interest from longtime fans. Stewart's own comeback announcement has already generated excitement, and the prospect of two Hall of Famers competing together would further stoke interest in the Truck Series.

The details

Harvick, the 2014 Cup Series champion who won 60 races in his illustrious career, stepped away from full-time racing following the 2023 season. His most recent victory came in August 2022 at Richmond Raceway. Meanwhile, Stewart, a three-time Cup champion, will make his return to NASCAR by competing in the 2026 Truck Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway, driving for Kaulig Racing as part of Ram's return to the sport.

  • Harvick's final full-time NASCAR start came at Phoenix Raceway in 2023, where he finished 7th.
  • Harvick's last victory was at Richmond Raceway in August 2022.
  • Stewart will compete in the 2026 Truck Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway.

The players

Kevin Harvick

A former NASCAR Cup Series champion who won 60 races in his Hall of Fame career before stepping away from full-time racing following the 2023 season.

Tony Stewart

A three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion who will make a one-race return to the Truck Series in 2026, driving for Kaulig Racing as part of Ram's re-entry into the sport.

Matt Kaulig

The owner of Kaulig Racing, the team that will field Tony Stewart's Truck Series entry at Daytona in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I might just make a comeback, why not? Tony Stewart's going to drive the truck race at Daytona. Why not? What should we race? I'm starting to get the bug again, I think. Cup is too much work. What could I just get in and drive?”

— Kevin Harvick

“I've raced just about everything with four wheels at Daytona, but never a truck. When a seat in the new Ram was offered, I didn't hesitate.”

— Tony Stewart

“He's a legend. His name alone brings energy to the sport. We couldn't be more fired up to have him in our camp.”

— Matt Kaulig, Kaulig Racing owner

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Harvick's potential return to NASCAR, even if just for a one-off Truck Series race, would generate significant excitement for the sport and its longtime fans. With Stewart also making a comeback, the prospect of the two Hall of Famers competing together would be a major draw and could help boost interest in the Truck Series.