Chesapeake's racing sensation, Brenden "Butterbean" Queen, is set to make a splash in the NASCAR Truck Series with Kaulig Racing in 2026. This announcement marks a significant leap for the 2025 ARCA Menards Series champion, who's now transitioning to the top-tier NASCAR circuit. But here's where it gets exciting: Queen's journey to the Truck Series is a testament to hard work and perseverance. He's a short-track kid who's been climbing the racing ranks, never taking no for an answer. And now, he's got a chance to prove himself on the big stage.
Kaulig Racing, a team known for its success in the Xfinity Series, is taking a bold step by entering the Truck Series for the first time. They've chosen Queen as one of their five drivers, and he's ready to pilot a Ram truck during their debut year. The 2026 Truck Series season starts on February 13th at Daytona International Speedway, and Queen is eager to make his mark.
"I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity," Queen expressed in a team statement. "I've worked tirelessly every day, never knowing if I'd reach this level. I'm thrilled to partner with Ram and Kaulig Racing. My goal is simple: build a winning team and go for championships." His determination and talent have already been showcased in the ARCA Menards Series, where he dominated with eight wins in 20 starts, solidifying his place among NASCAR's rising stars.
Before his full-time Truck Series debut, Queen will continue his journey with Kaulig Racing in the Xfinity Series. He'll compete in three more races: Talladega on Saturday, Martinsville on October 25th, and Phoenix on November 1st. This transition period will allow him to gain valuable experience and build momentum for his upcoming Truck Series campaign. With his proven track record and Kaulig Racing's support, Queen is poised to make a significant impact in the NASCAR world.