NASCAR to bring street racing to San Diego in 2026 with events planned at Naval Base Coronado
NEWS
NASCAR is set to make its return to Southern California in 2026 with a historic street racing weekend at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, officials announced Wednesday.
The three-day NASCAR San Diego Weekend will feature the Craftsman Truck Series on Friday, June 19, the Xfinity Series on Saturday, June 20, and the Cup Series main event on Sunday, June 21. The event will mark the first time NASCAR competition has been held on an active military base.
The San Diego event will also become only the second street-course race of NASCAR’s modern era, following the Chicago Street Race introduced in recent seasons. The race weekend is planned alongside celebrations honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy.
NASCAR executive vice president and chief venue and racing innovation officer Ben Kennedy called the event one of the most anticipated sporting showcases of 2026, highlighting its connection to both the Navy’s milestone anniversary and the nation’s 250th birthday.
Naval Base Coronado, which includes multiple military facilities across Southern California, will serve as the backdrop for the unique course. NASCAR officials said the layout will combine existing roadways on the base with sections built across open tarmac areas near military aircraft and carriers.
While the final track design has not yet been released, organizers said they are continuing to test multiple configurations with assistance from iRacing technology and driver feedback.
Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan said the partnership between NASCAR and the Navy reflects shared values of teamwork, precision and service, while also giving the public an opportunity to experience the historic base.
The San Diego street race will also signal NASCAR’s return to Southern California for the first time since the Clash exhibition event at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum concluded after the 2024 season.
NASCAR partnered with Sports San Diego to help organize and promote the event, which is expected to provide a major boost to tourism and hospitality throughout the region.
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