Kaulig names 'Butterbean' Queen to Ram trucks team

Kaulig Racing named Brenden "Butterbean" Queen as the first full-time driver for its 2026 lineup of Ram Trucks on Thursday.

Queen, 27, is moving over to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series after piloting Kaulig Racing's No. 11 Chevy in two starts on the Xfinity Series circuit this season.

"A big thanks to Matt Kaulig, Chris Rice, RAM, and everyone at Kaulig Racing for this opportunity," Queen said. "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."

Queen is the first of five Ram drivers to be revealed by Kaulig Racing. He won the 2025 ARCA Menards Series title this year after winning eight races and totaling 17 top-five finishes. He also placed ninth in the Xfinity race at Kansas on Sept. 27.

"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," said Chris Rice, CEO of Kaulig Racing. "He's proven he deserves this opportunity, and we can't wait to see what he does in the Truck Series next year."

--Field Level Media