NASCAR will embark on a groundbreaking event in 2026, as it prepares to host a race at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, California.
This marks a significant shift for the premier racing series, which has garnered attention over the past few years with innovative street courses, including the recent races in Chicago.
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s Executive Vice President, has already dubbed the San Diego race as “undoubtedly the most anticipated event of 2026,” coinciding with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy.
The NASCAR San Diego Weekend is scheduled for June 19 to June 21, 2026.
All three of NASCAR’s top series will take part in this celebratory event, with the Truck Series kicking off the weekend on Friday, June 19, followed by the Xfinity Series on Saturday, June 20, and culminating with the prestigious Cup Series on Sunday, June 21.
Naval Base Coronado, referred to as the “West Coast Quarterdeck,” will serve as the venue for this unique NASCAR experience.
This will be the first time NASCAR has held an event on an active military base, setting a historical precedent for the series.
While specifics about the race course have yet to be finalized, Kennedy indicated that the layout will be about three miles long, potentially giving it the title of NASCAR’s longest current road course.
As it stands, that title is held by Mexico City’s Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, measuring 2.42 miles.
Kennedy noted the course will involve a blend of street racing, navigating through various streets on the naval base, and incorporating tarmac sections, including pathways around military aircraft such as F-18s and aircraft carriers.
Although the official track layout is still in the works, NASCAR is utilizing the expertise of iRacing, the simulation racing video game that has proven invaluable in developing real-life race tracks.
Fans hoping to attend the San Diego race will be pleased to know that they will have the opportunity to witness this unprecedented event in person.
Kennedy anticipates a large crowd, estimating that “tens of thousands of people” will flock to the races, thanks in part to the spacious layout of the naval base.
Plans include grandstands, suites, hospitality areas, and a general admission ticketing option, which is expected to enhance the event’s accessibility.
For those eager to secure early access, NASCAR has made arrangements for pre-sale ticket opportunities and early deposits to be available online.
At present, the partnership between NASCAR and the city of San Diego is confirmed as a one-year arrangement.
However, Kennedy expressed enthusiasm about the potential for future events, suggesting that the NASCAR race could evolve into an annual occasion at Naval Base Coronado or even be extended to other military installations across the United States.
As anticipation mounts for the 2026 NASCAR San Diego Weekend, fans and participants alike are eager to see how this historic event unfolds on the shores of Southern California.
With its blend of high-speed racing and a celebration of military pride, NASCAR is poised to create unforgettable memories for all involved.
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