NASCAR is set to return to the scenic 1.99‑mile Sonoma Raceway for the second road‑course event of the 2026 season, with the action unfolding over three days from June 26 through June 28.
The weekend will feature a full slate of on‑track activity, including opening practice sessions, a knockout qualifying format, and two Cup Series races that will determine stage points and momentum heading into the summer stretch.
A Wide‑Open Battle for the Ages
Among the drivers eyeing a breakout performance is Corey Heim, who captured his first NASCAR Cup Series victory just last week. The youngster from Texas arrives in Sonoma riding a wave of confidence, eager to prove that the win was no fluke and to stake a claim among the sport’s elite.
Defending champion Shane Van Ginsberg, who dominated the 2025 Sonoma event, enters as the early favorite. His experience on the twisty layout and recent strong finishes make him a natural contender, but the field is packed with talent ready to challenge his reign.
The competition will be further intensified by a deep roster of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Names such as Tyler Reddick, Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney, Kyle Larson, Ty Gibbs, Chase Elliott, Chris Buescher, Daniel Suárez, Carson Hocevar, Chase Briscoe, Bubba Wallace, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Erik Jones, Austin Cindric, Ryan Preece, Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski, and AJ Allmendinger are all slated to take the green flag, ensuring a diverse mix of strategies and performances.
Beyond the Sonoma weekend, the series’ full calendar outlines a packed schedule of upcoming races across the United States, from the iconic Daytona 500 to the challenging short tracks of Bristol and the high‑speed ovals of Talladega. Current standings reflect a tightly contested championship battle, with points spread across a handful of drivers as the season progresses.
Fans can follow live coverage of practice, qualifying, and race action through NASCAR’s official platforms, while the organization continues to expand its digital footprint to bring the sport closer to viewers worldwide.