A Return to Georgia’s Oval
NASCAR is set to make its second visit to EchoPark Speedway this season, bringing the series back to the 1.54‑mile drafting oval in Georgia just weeks after the inaugural run. The track, notorious for its high banking and pack‑style racing, has earned a reputation for producing unpredictable finishes that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
A Full Field of 38 Drivers
Organizers have confirmed a 38‑car entry list, a number that guarantees every team a spot on the grid and sets the stage for a tightly contested race. The event marks the 20th points‑paying encounter of the 2026 Cup Series season and forms part of NASCAR’s In‑Season Challenge, where eight head‑to‑head matchups will determine which drivers advance to the semifinal round.
Among the teams lining up are some of the sport’s most storied organizations, including Trackhouse Racing, Team Penske, Richard Childress Racing, Front Row Motorsports, Hendrick Motorsports, RFK Racing, Spire Motorsports, Kaulig Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing, Wood Brothers Racing, 23XI Racing, Haas Factory Team, Legacy Motor Club, Rick Ware Racing, Live Fast Motorsports and Garage 66. Each brings its own technical program and driver lineup, adding depth to a field that features many of the series’ current championship contenders.
When the Green Flag Drops
The green flag is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, July 12, and the race will be televised live on TNT Sports. Coverage will begin with pre‑race analysis, highlighting the strategic importance of track position in a venue where aerodynamic dependence is minimal and drafting is everything.
Fans can expect the characteristic pack racing that has defined EchoPark’s history, with cars running side‑by‑side at high speed and occasional multi‑car drafts that can reshape the running order in an instant. The combination of high banking, moderate corner radius and long straightaways creates an environment where a single mistake can trigger a chain reaction, making strategy and timing critical.
Drivers such as Ross Chastain, Austin Cindric, Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott and Bubba Wallace are among those expected to battle for position, while younger talents like Zane Smith and Connor Zilisch look to make an impact. The diverse lineup also includes veterans like Joey Logano and newcomers such as Shane van Gisbergen, ensuring a blend of experience and fresh energy.