NASCAR is set to reclaim Iowa Speedway this weekend, delivering a double‑header that blends the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series with the premier Cup Series. Fans can expect a full weekend of on‑track action, from early‑morning practice sessions to the final checkered flags that will crown race winners.
The schedule is packed with precision. On Saturday, the O’Reilly Series will conduct practice at 11:30 AM, followed by qualifying at 12:35 PM, and culminate in the HyVee Perks 250 at 5:00 PM. The Cup Series will mirror the cadence with its own practice at 2:05 PM, qualifying at 3:10 PM, and the Iowa Corn 350 at 3:30 PM on Sunday.
Both races are structured into three distinct stages. The HyVee Perks 250 features Stage 1 (60 laps), Stage 2 (120 laps) and a final stage of 250 laps, covering 218.75 miles. The Iowa Corn 350 mirrors this format with Stage 1 (70 laps), Stage 2 (210 laps) and a concluding 350‑lap segment that totals 306.25 miles.
Broadcast details ensure viewers can follow the action across a range of platforms. The Saturday O’Reilly Series race will air on The CW and the ESPN App, while Sunday’s Cup Series finale will be shown on USA and HBO Max. This multi‑channel approach reflects NASCAR’s effort to reach both traditional and streaming audiences.
Track Profile
Iowa Speedway, a 0.875‑mile asphalt oval, is known for its steep banking that ranges from 12 to 14 degrees in the turns, 10 degrees on the frontstretch and a modest 4 degrees on the backstretch. These characteristics create a unique racing environment that blends high‑speed drafting with strategic line selection, making it a favorite among drivers who thrive on close, competitive pack racing.
The weekend also marks a symbolic return for the sport. Sam Mayer captured the most recent HyVee Perks 250 victory on August 2, 2025, at this very venue, underscoring the track’s growing significance in the NASCAR calendar. With historic banking, a compact layout and a slate of sponsors ranging from O’Reilly Auto Parts to Hy‑Vee, the event promises a compelling mix of tradition and fresh competition.