NASCAR announced that the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway will host a Cup Series race in July 2026, marking the 21st event of the year and the sole visit to the North Carolina venue for the season.
Qualifying format simplified to a two‑lap run
Each competitor will complete two flying laps, and the aggregate time will dictate the starting lineup. The approach eliminates heat races and group splits, offering a straightforward method to rank cars based on raw speed and the metric system's precise timing.
The released qualifying order for the 2026 Window World 450 includes a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, with Brad Keselowski, who secured the pole for the 2025 All‑Star Race at the same track, among the front‑row contenders alongside Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott.
Fans can look forward to a high‑energy atmosphere as the half‑mile layout prepares for another memorable showdown, with the simple qualifying system promising a direct reflection of each car’s performance on the track.