The NASCAR Cup Series will head to Iowa Speedway on August 9, 2026 for a highly anticipated weekend that blends on‑track action with a sizable financial prize. The event promises a full schedule of practice sessions, qualifying attempts and a race that will be broadcast live on USA, streamed on HBO Max and carried by the Motor Racing Network, all beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
Starting Lineup and Points Landscape
Qualifying placed Ryan Blaney on pole after a best lap of 23.474 seconds, with Kyle Larson close behind at 23.492 seconds. Denny Hamlin sits atop the regular‑season standings with 886 points, while Tyler Reddick trails by 84 points and Blaney sits another 120 points back, setting the stage for a competitive battle.
Drivers to Watch
Among the drivers expected to contend are Ryan Blaney, Kyle Larson, Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski, Tyler Reddick, Chase Briscoe and a host of other series regulars such as Christopher Bell, Shane van Gisbergen and Bubba Wallace. Their performances will be closely followed as the stage structure — 70‑lap, 210‑lap and a final 350‑lap segment — adds extra layers of strategy.
Race Format and Stages
The race will run 350 laps divided into three stages, with the final stage determining both the stage winner and the overall race outcome. The substantial purse of $11,233,037 underscores the event’s importance within the non‑playoff portion of the schedule, offering teams and drivers a valuable opportunity to gain momentum heading into the playoffs.
Taking place in Newton, Iowa, the historic half‑mile track continues to attract fans from across the Midwest, while the complete weekend schedule is available on the series’ official website for those planning to attend or follow the action online.