Full Breakdown
2026 Racing Season: Key Developments in Motorsports and Cycling
12/4/2025, 1:11:53 AM
Expanded ARCA Menards Series West Schedule
The 2026 ARCA Menards Series West schedule has been officially announced, featuring 13 races at 11 tracks across six states. This marks an increase from 12 races in 2025 and represents the most races since 2019. The season will commence at Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway in Bakersfield, California, and will conclude at the same venue, a first since 2018. Notably, the combination race with the ARCA Menards Series at Phoenix Raceway has been moved to a Thursday night slot following the season opener. Key events will also take place at Phoenix Raceway, Sonoma Raceway, and The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, coinciding with NASCAR's national series. The race at Portland International Raceway will be held alongside the NTT Data IndyCar Series. All standalone races will be streamed live on FloRacing, while the Phoenix combination race will be televised on FS1.
American Criterium Cup 2026 Overview
The American Criterium Cup will return for its fifth year in 2026, featuring six established races across the central United States, starting with the Saint Francis Tulsa Tough on June 6. The series offers a total prize purse of $140,000, evenly split between men's and women's competitions. Following Tulsa, the series will continue with events in Milwaukee, Boise, Chicago, Salt Lake City, and conclude in St. Louis on September 6. The series will maintain a points-based system for individual, sprint, and team classifications. Notably, four events have committed to live-streaming their races on the American Crit Cup YouTube channel.
Trackhouse Racing's Project 91 Update
Trackhouse Racing has confirmed that "Project 91," which debuted in the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series season, will likely return in 2026. This initiative has successfully introduced international drivers to the Cup Series, with Shane van Gisbergen winning in his debut in 2023. While the No. 91 car had limited appearances in 2025, owner Justin Marks indicated that there are plans for more races in the upcoming season, although specific details remain unclear.
2026 Giro d'Italia Route Changes
The 2026 Giro d'Italia will feature a route designed to attract top riders like Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel. The elevation gain has been reduced by 8%, from 53,250 meters to 49,150 meters, marking a shift towards a more accessible course. While the race will still include seven summit finishes, only two are classified as highly difficult. This strategic alteration aims to create a competitive environment that encourages participation from elite cyclists without overwhelming them. Mauro Vegni, Giro director, expressed hopes that the revised route will entice prominent riders to compete.
Implications for the Racing Community
The developments in both motorsports and cycling for the 2026 season reflect a broader trend towards inclusivity and accessibility in competitive racing. The expanded schedules and strategic route designs aim to enhance viewer engagement and attract a diverse range of participants, ultimately enriching the racing experience for fans and competitors alike.
Official Statements & Responses
Trackhouse Racing's Justin Marks stated, “Project 91 is still alive and will likely return during the 2026 NASCAR season,” emphasizing the program's success in integrating international talent into the series. Meanwhile, Mauro Vegni noted the need for a route that does not "break riders," highlighting the importance of attracting top competitors to the Giro d'Italia.
Verbatim Quotes
- “According to Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks, through the Sports Business Journal, the organization's "Project 91" program is still alive and will likely return during the 2026 NASCAR season.” — Justin Marks, Owner, Trackhouse Racing
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Trackhouse Racing has confirmed the continuation of Project 91, the exact number of races for the No. 91 car in 2026 remains unspecified. Additionally, the Giro d'Italia's elevation adjustments have sparked discussions about the balance between challenge and accessibility, with varying opinions on the implications for competitive integrity.
