Overview

• NASCAR is reported to be finalizing a contract for a 2026 street race in San Diego, marking its first points-paying event in Southern California since the Auto Club Speedway’s closure.
• The proposed San Diego race would likely replace the Chicago Street Race, whose three-year agreement ends in 2025 and has faced weather delays and high operational costs.
• Expanding urban courses in 2026 will require NASCAR to balance six road and street events with its traditional oval races and its growing international calendar, including Mexico City and potential Brazil ties.
• NASCAR executives are also evaluating new venues such as a Philadelphia street race and considering tweaks to the playoff format ahead of the next season.
• Longtime fans have voiced mixed reactions to the shift toward street and road courses, with some lamenting the loss of classic ovals while others embrace fresh urban settings.