In a move that blends commemoration with competition, NASCAR has revealed that its 2026 Cup Series will debut a street circuit race at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, California, as part of the nation's 250th birthday celebrations.
A Course Built for Spectacle
The new layout spans 3.4 miles and features sixteen turns that test both braking precision and throttle control. The circuit opens with the Ellyson Start/Finish Line, named in honor of Commander Theodore Ellyson, and immediately challenges drivers with a sweeping right‑hander followed by a downhill braking zone.
From there, competitors navigate a series of technical sections, including Carrier Corner, a heavy‑braking right‑hander at Turn 6, and the Coronado Chicane at Turns 8 and 9, before tackling a series of esses and a true chicane equipped with a tire pack at Turn 12. The final corner, a slow‑speed chicane near Runway 18/36, promises a dramatic finish.
Drivers to Watch
Tyler Reddick enters the event fresh off a victory at COTA earlier this year, while Shane van Gisbergen, who has won five of the last six road and street course races, looks to extend his dominance. Both drivers have demonstrated strong performances on similar layouts, raising expectations for a competitive showdown.
Patriotic Celebration
The race weekend, scheduled for June 19‑21, forms part of a broader "America 250" initiative that honors the nation's founding. By hosting the event at a historic naval base, NASCAR aims to intertwine the sport's excitement with a tribute to American heritage.
A Expanding Calendar
San Diego joins three other road and street venues on the 2026 schedule, underscoring NASCAR's shift toward diverse racing environments. The new circuit joins events in Austin, Texas; Watkins Glen, New York; and Sonoma, California, reflecting the series' ambition to reach new audiences across the United States.