NASCAR has reinstated Craftsman Truck Series driver Daniel Dye following a suspension over remarks in which he mimicked IndyCar driver David Malukas using a “gay voice.” However, Kaulig Racing confirmed it has accepted Dye’s resignation, and he will not return to the team. Dye was elected to drive one of the five vehicles of Kaulig Racing as part of a program launched to ensure Kaulig Racing’s return to competition.
The controversy stems from a clip circulated on March 17 from a livestream, where a participant said Malukas “plays for the other team.” Dye responded by mimicking Malukas, saying: “It’s like ‘Oh my gosh, yas.’” he added, “As soon as I start doing a David Malukas gay voice, I get a gold, so let’s keep it going.” NASCAR suspended Dye under its code of conduct, which prohibits criticism based on sexual orientation or gender, and required him to complete sensitivity training.
Following the backlash, Dye issued an apology on Twitter, calling his comments careless. “I want to first apologise to David Malukas…I chose my words poorly, and I understand why it upset people.” Kaulig Racing confirmed Corey LaJoie will replace Dye in the No. 10 truck. This marks Dye’s second suspension, following a 2022 incident involving a felony battery charge.
