A Soundtrack Built for the Track
NASCAR 26 is slated to hit stores in September, arriving on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The title will be headlined by Kyle Larson, who serves as the game’s cover star, adding star power to an already ambitious package.
The game’s musical backbone consists of 19 tracks that traverse multiple genres. Listeners can expect the Southern swagger of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama,” the gritty punch of T.I.’s “LET ‘EM KNOW,” and the modern edge of Alien Ant Farm’s “Reasons.” Papa Roach contributes “Wake Up Calling,” while the Hot Skillet Lickers deliver a song honoring the late Dale Earnhardt Sr., a tribute that was shaped with input from Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. holds the position of Executive Director at iRacing, the simulation platform that powers the game’s physics and online competition. He has previously urged fans to submit song ideas for the soundtrack, a call that helped shape the final lineup and underscores the community‑driven approach.
Beyond the music, NASCAR 26 introduces celebratory burnouts as a new gameplay feature, allowing drivers to revel in victory with stylized tire smoke. The roster also includes a confirmed lap at the Qualcomm Circuit, adding a fresh venue for enthusiasts to explore.
Fans can stream the entire soundtrack on Spotify ahead of the game’s release, giving them a first‑look at the curated mix that blends rock, hip‑hop, and classic Southern anthems. With the combination of high‑octane racing, a star‑studded cover, and a soundtrack steeped in both contemporary and nostalgic sounds, NASCAR 26 promises to be a cultural crossover as much as a sporting simulation.