NASCAR announced that the 2026 Cup Series schedule will feature a points race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, reviving the historic half‑mile venue for the first time since 1996.
The event will be the only points‑race weekend the track hosts that year, a milestone that underscores the series' commitment to preserving classic short‑track venues.
Qualifying format and entry dynamics
Because the track is classified as a short track, each of the 37 drivers will be allowed two flying laps, and the order in which they take to the circuit will be determined by a metric that combines owner standings with the most recent race finish.
The entry list shows that the No. 78 Chevrolet will not be on the grid after its owner, B.J. McLeod, drove the car at Atlanta, while the No. 66 Ford fielded by Chad Finchum makes a return, leaving just a single open slot that guarantees Finchum a spot in the race.
Team owners and partners have expressed excitement about the prospect of fans gathering at the North Carolina venue, where the atmosphere is expected to blend the grit of short‑track racing with the pageantry of a modern Cup Series event.
The full qualifying order for Saturday’s session will be published shortly, offering a glimpse of the line‑up that will shape the upcoming race.