A milestone for the series
In a move that marks the first time the NASCAR Truck Series will race on the streets of Southern California, the 2026 schedule adds a San Diego event that promises to blend the city's vibrant atmosphere with the series' signature truck racing. The announcement comes as part of a broader effort to expand the tour's footprint beyond traditional Mid‑west and Southern venues.
The qualifying procedure for the San Diego race follows a straightforward structure: drivers are divided into two groups, each running a single timed lap. The metric system is used to order the groups, and the fastest lap in each group secures the pole position and the corresponding starting spot for the race. This format is designed to keep the on‑track action concise while still rewarding outright speed.
Group A features a lineup that includes Parker Kligerman, Nathan Nicholson, Dawson Sutton, Cole Butcher, Austin Varco, Kris Wright, Jackson Lee, Ty Majeski, Corey LaJoie, Justin Haley, Frankie Muniz, Christian Eckes, Mini Tyrrell, Brendan Gaughan, Adam Andretti, Stewart Friesen, Andres Perez De Lara, Tanner Gray and Jimmie Johnson. Each of these drivers will have a chance to set the pace and claim a front‑row starting position.
Group B comprises Jame McMurray, Ben Rhodes, Brenden Queen, Landen Lewis, Daniel Hemric, Grant Enfinger, Tyler Reif, Tyler Ankrum, Jake Garcia, Giovanni Ruggiero, Kaz Grala, Connor Mosack, Chandler Smith, Justin Marks, Layne Riggs, Kaden Honeycutt and a host of other competitors. The diversity of participants reflects the series' growing roster and the competitive nature of the new venue.
Beyond the on‑track implications, the San Diego race is expected to draw significant attention from fans, sponsors and local businesses. NASCAR officials have highlighted the city's infrastructure and fan engagement potential as key factors in the decision to host the event. As the series looks ahead to 2026, the addition of San Diego underscores its ambition to bring truck racing to new markets while maintaining the excitement that has defined the division for years.