Imagine pouring your heart and soul into something, day after day, not knowing if you'll ever reach the top. That's exactly the story of Brenden “Butterbean” Queen, and it's about to get a whole lot more exciting! This underdog story is about to get a massive boost! Fresh off his 2025 ARCA Menards Series championship win, Queen is officially joining Kaulig Racing for a full-time ride in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2026.
This isn't just another driver joining a team; it's Kaulig Racing's debut in the Truck Series, making Queen a pivotal part of their entry into this highly competitive racing arena. Think of it as a brand new team putting their faith in a rising star – a high-stakes gamble that could pay off big time!
The announcement, made Thursday, revealed Queen as the first of five drivers who will be behind the wheel of Ram trucks for Kaulig Racing's inaugural Truck Series season. Mark your calendars! The 2026 season kicks off on February 13th at the legendary Daytona International Speedway.
Queen's excitement is palpable. "A big thanks to Matt Kaulig, Chris Rice, Ram, and everyone at Kaulig Racing for this opportunity," he said in a statement. "I’m just a short-track kid who’s worked hard every day, never really knowing if I’d ever make it to this level. I’m very thankful for this chance and can’t wait to get rolling with Ram and Kaulig Racing. The goals are simple: build a winning team and chase championships." It’s a classic rags-to-riches story, and fans are already eager to see if he can deliver.
Kaulig Racing CEO Chris Rice echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Queen's impressive journey through the racing ranks. "It’s been amazing to see what Brenden is capable of, from winning multiple championships at his local short track to his dominant ARCA championship season," Rice stated. "He’s proven he deserves this opportunity." This vote of confidence from the team's leadership speaks volumes about Queen's potential.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that jumping straight from ARCA to a full-time Truck Series ride is too big of a leap. Others believe Queen's talent and determination will allow him to adapt quickly. What do you think? Is he ready for the challenge?
Before fully committing to the Truck Series, the 27-year-old Chesapeake native will wrap up his three-race stint in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing. Keep an eye out for him at Talladega on Saturday, Martinsville on October 25th, and Phoenix on November 1st. These races offer a valuable opportunity to gain further experience and momentum before the 2026 season.
And this is the part most people miss... Queen has already given us glimpses of his potential in Kaulig’s No. 11 Chevrolet, securing a 20th-place finish at Bristol and an impressive 9th-place finish at Kansas. These performances, coupled with his dominant ARCA season – featuring a staggering eight wins in just 20 starts – solidify his position as a rising star in NASCAR. Let's not forget he is also a former Langley Speedway champion, proving his prowess on various tracks.
Queen's consistent success across different racing platforms showcases his versatility and adaptability. But the Truck Series is a different beast altogether. The competition is fierce, the trucks are challenging to handle, and the pressure is immense.
So, what are your predictions for Queen's 2026 Truck Series season? Will he live up to the hype? Will Kaulig Racing's gamble pay off? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! Do you see him as a future champion, or will he face a steep learning curve? Let's discuss!
