NASCAR Driver Resigns After Suspension Over Offensive Comments

Daniel Dye leaves Kaulig Racing following indefinite suspension for mocking rival driver's sexuality

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:34pm

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NASCAR driver Daniel Dye has resigned from his position with Kaulig Racing after being suspended indefinitely for making offensive comments about the sexuality of fellow driver David Malukas during a livestream. Dye apologized for his 'careless' remarks, which he said upset people, including some of his LGBTQ+ friends. Despite completing sensitivity training and having his suspension lifted, the 22-year-old has decided to step away from the No. 10 truck for the remainder of the 2026 season.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing need for greater inclusivity and respect within the motorsports community. Dye's comments, while hurtful, also presented an opportunity for him to learn and grow, ultimately leading to his resignation. The situation underscores the importance of accountability and the power of athlete influence in shaping more inclusive sports cultures.

The details

During a livestream, Dye mocked the voice of IndyCar driver David Malukas, referring to it as his 'David Malukas gay voice.' Malukas, a 24-year-old driver for Team Penske, is known to post pictures on social media with a girlfriend. Both NASCAR and Kaulig Racing suspended Dye, requiring him to complete sensitivity training before his suspension was lifted. Despite the suspension being over, Dye has chosen to resign from his role with Kaulig Racing, stating he is 'stepping away' from the No. 10 truck for the rest of the 2026 season.

  • On March 17, Dye was suspended indefinitely by NASCAR and Kaulig Racing for his comments made during a livestream.
  • Dye completed the required sensitivity training, and his suspension was lifted shortly after.

The players

Daniel Dye

A 22-year-old NASCAR driver who was suspended indefinitely by NASCAR and Kaulig Racing for making offensive comments about the sexuality of fellow driver David Malukas during a livestream. Dye has since resigned from his position with Kaulig Racing.

David Malukas

A 24-year-old IndyCar driver for Team Penske, whose voice and sexuality were mocked by Dye during the livestream incident.

Kaulig Racing

The NASCAR team that suspended Dye indefinitely and has now accepted his resignation from the No. 10 truck for the remainder of the 2026 season.

Corey LaJoie

A veteran NASCAR driver who will take over the No. 10 truck for Kaulig Racing for the rest of the 2026 season, replacing the departing Dye.

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What they’re saying

“I chose my words poorly and I understand why it upset people. I'm sorry to anyone who was offended. That's how I want to represent myself. I have some close friends in the LGBTQ+ community who would never want to feel less of themselves because of what I said, and that's exactly why I should hold myself to a higher standard.”

— Daniel Dye, NASCAR Driver

“I've missed the grind of working towards a goal of success on track. There's certainly a lot of work ahead of us getting our Ram trucks to a place where we compete for wins but with the people in the Kaulig Racing building, I believe we will get there.”

— Corey LaJoie, NASCAR Driver

What’s next

Kaulig Racing will field the No. 10 truck for the rest of the 2026 season with veteran driver Corey LaJoie behind the wheel, beginning this Friday at Rockingham Speedway.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the need for greater inclusivity and respect within motorsports. While Dye's comments were unacceptable, his willingness to learn and grow through sensitivity training is a positive step. However, his resignation also highlights the serious consequences that can arise from such behavior, underscoring the importance of fostering a more welcoming and supportive environment for all athletes and fans.