A.J. Allmendinger says he ‘might go back to Xfinity Series’ in 2024

Allmendinger's future with Kaulig Racing remains uncertain after a disappointing season.

A.J. Allmendinger says he ‘might go back to Xfinity Series’ in 2024

A.J. Allmendinger (Via IMAGO)

A.J. Allmendinger had a disappointing end to his Cup Series season with a 21st-place finish in the standings in his #16 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. There have been various changes in the Kaulig Racing team, with Justin Haley’s exit already being announced. Allmendinger’s exit is also rumored, with Daniel Hemric and Ty Dillon as potential replacements. Allmendinger recently addressed these rumors in an interview with SiriusXM.

Allmendinger said he is willing to do what is best for the team. He said he might retain his seat in the Cup Series next year or move to the Xfinity Series, mentioning that he does not prefer one series over another. Allmendinger is also racing part-time in the Xfinity Series for Kaulig Racing and is in the 68th position in the standings.

YouTube video

“At the end of the day, I will probably do whatever they want me to do. There’s a good chance I’m back in the No. 16 Cup car next year, but there’s also a chance I could be back in Xfinity too. It’s whatever they think is best for the organizations overall… At the end of the day, I don’t really have a preference,” Allmendinger told SiriusXM.

FS Video

In case you missed it: Bubba Wallace responds to Kyle Petty’s brutal statements about him being ‘mentally fragile’

Kaulig Racing president Chris Rice shares update on Justin Haley’s departure

Justin Haley's #31 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Justin Haley’s #31 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (Credits: Jayski)

Kaulig Racing driver Justin Haley announced his departure from the team recently. He signed a new multi-year deal with Rick Ware Racing and will drive one of their Ford Mustangs. After his departure, Kaulig Racing president Chris Rice provided updates on the team’s current situation.

Rice discussed Haley’s previous car, the #31 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. He said the car’s development is nearly done and believes it will be the deal-breaker next season. However, Rice did not name any potential replacement for Haley for the next season. There were rumors of Austin Hill signing a deal with Kaulig Racing as Haley’s replacement, but he ended up extending his contract with Richard Childress Racing.  

“The No. 31 car is pretty much done.  I’m excited, Matt Kaulig is excited, everybody that partners, and everybody that is involved is excited about it. That’s been a relief. I’ve been able to sleep a little bit,” said Rice.

Both of the cars of Kaulig Racing are out of the Playoffs, which gives them plenty of time to prepare for their next season. While A.J. Allmendinger will probably continue with the team, they are yet to find his teammate.

Keep reading: