Matt Kaulig-owned Kaulig Racing has revealed its driver line-up for the 2025 Xfinity Series. Christian Eckes, Josh Williams, and Daniel Dye will be driving the #16, #11, and #10 cars, respectively, for the team next year.
The announcement was made by Matt Kaulig ahead of the race at Darlington Raceway. With AJ Allmendinger set to drive full-time in the 2025 Cup Series, the team has chosen to bring in Christian Eckes from the Craftsman Truck Series.
The New York-based youngster, who is currently battling it out in the Truck Series playoffs, has signed a multi-year deal with Kaulig Racing.
“Just super excited for this opportunity. This is something I feel like it’s been a long time coming, and to do it with Kaulig Racing, Chris (Rice, team president), Matt (Kaulig, team owner) and so many great teammates as well is something that I’m really looking forward to," Eckes said, during the media interaction at Darlington Raceway.
This news was also shared on X by senior NASCAR journalist Bob Pockrass. Here's a look at the post, captioned:
"Christian Eckes will drive the Kaulig Racing No. 16 car in Xfinity Series full-time next year. Kaulig's Xfinity lineup will be Christian Eckes (No. 16), Josh Williams (No. 11) and Daniel Dye (No. 10)"
However, there have been mixed reactions to Kaulig Racing's 2025 Xfinity Series roster by NASCAR fans. While some have criticized the line-up, others are backing the young and upcoming Truck Series driver's entry into the Xfinity Series.
"Worst lineup of all time?" replied a fan.
"Such a sad lineup," another fan wrote.
"Hype," a fan commented.
"Not gonna be good. That team needs an established veteran driver," another fan added, raising concern over the lack of experience in the team.
"Solid lineup it seems. Glad Josh is getting a 2nd year," a fan replied positively.
"Eckes is the future of Kaulig," another fan said, supporting the young Truck Series racer.
A brief look at Christian Eckes' performances during the 2024 Truck Series season that helped him win a seat at Kaulig Racing
Christian Eckes won the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series regular-season title, defeating Ty Majeski and Corey Heim. The trio are now competing in the playoffs.
Eckes has won three races during the 2024 Truck Series so far (Bristol Motor Speedway, Martinsville Speedway, and Nashville Superspeedway), and has finished 16 races in the Top-10 and 11 in the Top-5.
As of now, Christian Eckes is leading the 2024 Truck Series Playoffs. His consistent performances through the year have caught the attention of Kaulig Racing.
Now, ahead of the race at Darlington Raceway, the Matt Kaulig-owned team has signed Eckes as their full-time driver for the 2025 Xfinity Series. He will be replacing AJ Allmendinger in the #16 Chevrolet.