Kaulig Racing, a prominent force in NASCAR’s Xfinity and Cup Series, has announced its crew chief lineup for the 2025 Xfinity Series season, opting for continuity and experience as it navigates a new year with a blend of returning drivers and promising rookies. The team, based in Welcome, North Carolina, and partnered with Richard Childress Racing, has strategically placed veteran crew chiefs alongside both established drivers and newcomers, aiming to leverage their expertise to maximize performance and contend for the championship. The announcement, delivered through Kaulig Racing’s social media channels, solidified the team’s commitment to a proven formula for success.
The 2025 season sees Kevin Walter paired with rookie driver Daniel Dye in the No. 10 Chevrolet Camaro. Walter’s prior experience with drivers like Josh Williams and NASCAR Cup Series winner Shane van Gisbergen in the 2024 season positions him as a valuable mentor and strategist for Dye as he navigates the complexities of the Xfinity Series. Dye, a rising star in the racing world, will undoubtedly benefit from Walter’s guidance and race-day acumen. This pairing represents Kaulig Racing’s investment in young talent while providing them with the experienced support needed to thrive.
Josh Williams, a familiar face at Kaulig Racing, will continue to work with crew chief Eddie Pardue in the No. 11 Chevrolet Camaro. Pardue took over the crew chief role mid-season in 2024 and brings a wealth of experience, having participated in 351 events and secured three victories since the start of his career in 1998. This continued partnership provides Williams with stability and a familiar voice atop the pit box, fostering a strong driver-crew chief dynamic that is crucial for consistent performance throughout the season. Pardue’s extensive experience will provide valuable insights and strategic direction for Williams as he looks to build upon his previous seasons and strive for greater success.
The No. 16 Chevrolet Camaro, previously driven by veteran A.J. Allmendinger, will now be piloted by rookie Christian Eckes, with Alex Yontz continuing as crew chief. This pairing combines the fresh perspective of a rising talent with the seasoned experience of a successful crew chief. Yontz’s impressive record, boasting nine wins and two Championship 4 appearances, provides a solid foundation for Eckes as he steps into the demanding Xfinity Series. This strategic decision underlines Kaulig Racing’s commitment to nurturing young talent while maintaining a competitive edge.
The 2024 season concluded with several notable achievements for Kaulig Racing, including A.J. Allmendinger’s third-place finish in the playoffs and the team’s four victories, 34 top-10 finishes, 14 top-five finishes, and 374 laps led. Shane van Gisbergen also contributed significantly, finishing 12th in the playoffs. This strong performance sets a high bar for the 2025 season, and with the announced crew chief lineup, Kaulig Racing appears poised to build upon this success.
The arrival of Christian Eckes, who boasts eight wins in the NASCAR Truck Series, signifies a significant addition to the Kaulig Racing roster. His transition to the Xfinity Series marks a crucial step in his career, and the pairing with veteran crew chief Alex Yontz suggests Kaulig Racing is committed to his development and success. The team’s strategic decisions, including retaining experienced crew chiefs and integrating promising rookies, signal their intent to compete at the highest level in the 2025 season. The Xfinity Series kicks off at Daytona International Speedway on February 15th, 2025, and the anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting season of racing.
