Story perspectives

2026 NASCAR Schedule: New Races, Classic Tracks Return

8/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule features 38 races, starting with the Daytona 500 on February 15 and concluding at Homestead-Miami on November 8.
Chicagoland Speedway returns, and a new street race is added at Naval Base Coronado, while the Chicago Street Circuit and Mexico City are removed.
The All-Star Race will take place at Dover, and North Wilkesboro will host its first points race since 1996.
The schedule includes two off weekends: Easter and early August.

History

Historical Context

The NASCAR Cup Series began in 1949, rapidly growing in popularity, with 31 races by 1972 and the Daytona 500 emerging as a key event. The 2026 schedule features 38 races, including a new street race at Naval Base Coronado, reflecting NASCAR's ongoing evolution and strategy to attract diverse audiences in a competitive sports environment.

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Story summary

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule features 38 races, starting with the Daytona 500 on February 15 and concluding at Homestead-Miami on November 8.
Chicagoland Speedway returns, and a new street race is added at Naval Base Coronado, while the Chicago Street Circuit and Mexico City are removed.
The All-Star Race will take place at Dover, and North Wilkesboro will host its first points race since 1996.
The schedule includes two off weekends: Easter and early August.

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