Christian Eckes Joins Kaulig Racing for 2025

Kaulig Racing has announced that Christian Eckes, the 23-year-old NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series regular-season champion, will join their NASCAR Xfinity Series lineup starting in 2025, taking over the No. 16 Chevrolet. Eckes, who has achieved three wins this season and is second in the Truck Series standings, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and excitement for the future. Team president Chris Rice emphasized that this decision is part of a long-term strategy to enhance the Xfinity program, while team owner Matt Kaulig praised Eckes as one of the sport's brightest young talents. The addition of Eckes follows the team's previous announcement of Daniel Dye moving to a full-time role and A.J. Allmendinger returning to the Cup Series. Eckes will compete for both the Xfinity Championship and the Rookie of the Year title in his inaugural season. His debut will occur at the season-opener at Daytona International Speedway on February 15, 2025.