NASCAR officials have hailed the inaugural "Race at the Base" at Naval Base Coronado as a triumph, citing strong attendance and enthusiastic fan response.
Ben Kennedy, the series' chief operating officer, said the event's success has sparked a desire to bring the spectacle back in 2027, though the base's ongoing military operations will factor into any future schedule.
Challenges on the track
The weekend was not without its hiccups. Heavy traffic snarls choked access routes, while the layout's slick surface produced a string of crashes that kept the caution flags waving.
A stray manhole cover was flung onto the racing surface, embedding itself in a competitor's vehicle, and Navy Seabee construction crews were called in to weld the cover back into place.
The chaos culminated in a dramatic wreck that eliminated Shane van Gisbergen, the race‑favorite and reigning champion, from contention.
Looking ahead
Amy Lupo, president of the local track, hinted at possible dates for a 2027 edition, noting that the calendar will need to align with both civilian and military considerations.
While no formal contract has been signed, the positive reception suggests that the partnership between NASCAR and the Coronado community could become a staple of the series.