NASCAR Insider hints AJ Allmendinger's potential Cup return with Kaulig Racing if sponsorship is secured

AJ Allmendinger moved to run full-time in NASCAR’s second-tier series with Kaulig Racing this season after a full-time stint in the Cup Series, driving the #16 Chevrolet for them. Last year in December, Kaulig Racing announced Allmendinger would compete full-time in the 2024 Xfinity season, and it happened due to a business decision.

There has been speculation about Allmendinger’s potential return to the Cup Series with Kaulig Racing in 2025. NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass is eyeing the possibility of “The Dinger” returning to the Cup Series if he can bring enough sponsors to anchor the #16 Cup entry.

Pockrass, who is a renowned NASCAR journalist, projecting the Cup Series lineup for the 2025 season on FOX Sports, wrote:

“With multiple drivers, this ride would be open to a driver who can bring enough sponsorship to anchor the car. Never rule out an AJ Allmendinger return to Cup as well if Kaulig can find the dollars.”

This season, the #16 entry ran on a part-time basis in the Cup Series and had used multiple drivers behind it. Allmendinger has made six starts so far in the #16 entry, and the most recent came at the inaugural Cup race at Iowa Speedway. He has scored three P6 finishes in those six Cup starts.

Getting a sponsor is a critical step to make his return more viable because funding is essential to run a full-time competitive Cup Series program.

Allmendinger currently has support from the following sponsors: Celsius, Campers Inn RV, Action Industries, LeafFilter Gutter Protection, and Cirkul for his #16 Chevrolet in the Xfinity Series.

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AJ Allmendinger has special connection with Kaulig Racing

The 42-year-old driver, who is known for his skill on road courses, holds experience of running full-time in both the Cup and Xfinity Series. He feels a special connection with Kaulig Racing, as he has been driving for the organization since 2019 and could bring valuable experience to the team if the sponsorship is secured.

Since joining Matt Kaulig's NASCAR team, AJ Allmendinger has claimed two consecutive Xfinity regular season championships in 2021 and 2022. His 15 out of 17 career wins came at Kaulig.

“The Dinger” has played a crucial role in solidifying the team's growth and success across NASCAR’s national series after taking the first Cup Series checkered flag at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2021 and then secured the team’s second Cup win at Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval last year.

Catch AJ Allmendinger in action at Nashville Superspeedway for his Tennessee Lottery 250 title defense on Saturday, June 29.