NASCAR has confirmed that the 2026 Cup Series and Truck Series will hold their qualifying sessions at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in August, creating a doubleheader weekend on the historic 1‑mile oval.
In the Cup Series, Cody Ware claimed the pole position with a metric score of 34.900, edging out Ty Dillon, who recorded a 32.600 to secure second place.
The Truck Series qualifying order saw Michael Christopher Jr emerge as the highest‑ranked entrant with a score of 58.700, while Dawson Cram followed with a 40.000 rating; Connor Zilisch also appears in both series' lineups.
How NASCAR’s Metric Scoring Works
The metric scores used to determine starting positions combine lap time, average speed and other performance indicators, offering a data‑driven snapshot of each driver’s pace on the track.
NASCAR officials noted that this approach reflects a driver’s overall performance rather than a single factor, ensuring a nuanced assessment as the series prepares for a competitive weekend in New Hampshire.
The upcoming event will bring together a deep field of competitors, blending veteran talent with emerging prospects, and is expected to deliver a compelling start to the 2026 season.