The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season is set to unfold across a diverse slate of venues, stretching from the Midwest heartland to the sun‑soaked coasts of the Southeast. Fans can expect a mix of classic ovals, road courses and superspeedways, each offering its own unique challenges and traditions.
Key Tracks and Dates
The schedule highlights events at Michigan International Speedway, Pocono Raceway and Sonoma Raceway, while the iconic Southern 500 at Darlington serves as the kickoff for a ten‑race chase that culminates in the season‑ending finale at Homestead‑Miami Speedway on November 8.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the venue, with entry‑level seats starting as low as $61 and premium experiences topping out at $316. The Homestead race commands the highest starting price, reflecting its status as the championship decider.
Broadcast Coverage
All races will be televised across a combination of Amazon Prime Video, TNT, USA Network and NBC, ensuring that viewers can follow the action on a platform of their choice.
The Chase Returns
After a brief experiment with a pure win‑and‑you’re‑in model, NASCAR has reinstated ‘The Chase’ for 2026, rewarding consistency and performance throughout the regular season. The chase begins with the Southern 500 at Darlington on September 6 and proceeds through nine additional events before the championship is decided.
The season runs from June through November, featuring races at iconic venues such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway and the historic Daytona 500, each contributing to the points battle that ultimately shapes the playoff picture.