A championship showdown
After a five‑year hiatus, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour is set to reclaim the half‑mile asphalt oval at Stafford Speedway on August 28, 2026. The GAF 150 will not only celebrate the track's storied past but also serve as the season finale where the championship tension reaches its peak.
Stafford has been a proving ground for Modified Tour legends since 1985, hosting more than 100 events. NASCAR Hall of Famers Richie Evans and Mike Stefanik are etched into the track's record books, each leaving a legacy that continues to inspire today's competitors.
This year's field includes Justin Bonsignore, who captured the 2021 championship at Stafford, and veteran Doug Coby, a twelve‑time winner on the same surface. Both are joined by defending champion Austin Beers, who holds a razor‑thin one‑point lead over Patrick Emerling in the points standings.
Championship stakes and contending drivers
The battle for the title is unusually tight. Beers' narrow advantage over Emerling adds a narrative of suspense, while Jon McKennedy, fresh off three victories earlier in the season, positions himself as a serious threat. Their performances will likely shape the final standings before the checkered flag.
Beyond the championship implications, the race will showcase a blend of experience and youthful talent. Drivers such as Bonsignore, Coby, and emerging stars are expected to deliver competitive runs, making the event a must‑watch for fans of grassroots stock car racing.
Race logistics and viewing options
The GAF 150 will run 150 laps on the 0.5‑mile oval, beginning at 8:45 p.m. Eastern Time. The event schedule includes practice sessions, qualifying, and a capped field of 30 drivers, ensuring a tightly contested lineup. Broadcast coverage will be available on FloRacing and the NASCAR Channel, giving viewers multiple platforms to follow the action live.
For attendees, the weekend promises a full slate of activities, from early‑day practice to the final race under the lights. The combination of historic track characteristics and high‑stakes competition is expected to draw both longtime fans and newcomers eager to experience the unique atmosphere of Stafford Speedway.