Overview
- Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic reported that Charlotte Motor Speedway is expected to shift its fall Cup date from the Roval to the 1.5-mile oval starting in 2026, with an official announcement anticipated in the coming weeks.
- If finalized, the move would end the Roval’s playoff run that began in 2018 and leave the 10-race 2026 Chase contested entirely on ovals with no road-course event.
- Coverage ties the expected change to the Next Gen era, with improved racing on intermediate ovals and diminished road-course drama cited by teams and drivers.
- Dale Earnhardt Jr. signaled no objection and praised recent oval races, while Mark Martin endorsed an all-oval postseason; fan reactions highlighted concerns about reduced track-type diversity.
- Analyst Larry McReynolds cautioned that the decision is not fully finalized, and reports indicate the shift would also apply to the Xfinity and Truck playoff races on their mid-October weekend.