NASCAR’s Truck Series is set to make its 14th appearance at Lime Rock in July 2026, continuing a tradition that sees the series visit the Connecticut venue once every season. The event, known as the LiUNA 150, will bring the series back to a track that has been a staple of American motorsport since the 1970s.
This year’s qualifying procedure has been overhauled to split the field into two distinct groups, A and B. Each group will be given a short window to complete a single flying lap, and the fastest time recorded across both groups will dictate the entire starting order for the race.
The new metric‑based system measures lap times to the hundredth of a second, eliminating the previous knockout format and placing a premium on a single, perfect effort. Drivers will therefore focus on delivering one flawless lap rather than navigating multiple rounds of elimination.
Groups A and B
Group A features drivers such as Colin Braun, Corey LaJoie and Louis Foster, while Group B includes Kris Wright, Chandler Smith and Kaden Honeycutt, among several others. Each driver will aim to post the fastest single lap and claim the pole position that can dramatically influence race strategy and stage points.
Corey Heim, who secured the pole for the 2025 summer event at Lime Rock, is expected to be a strong contender again, but he will face stiff competition from a deep field that includes Stewart Friesen, Tyler Ankrum, Grant Enfinger, Daniel Hemric and a host of additional competitors eager to capitalize on the new format.
Championship implications
Because the starting grid determines the order in which drivers collect stage points and playoff positioning, the qualifying battle has become as critical as the race itself. A strong qualifying performance can set the tone for the entire season, especially for those battling for the championship lead.
A historic track gets a modern twist
Lime Rock Park, a 0.6‑mile road course celebrated for its tight corners and subtle elevation changes, has hosted NASCAR events for decades. The 2026 Truck Series return adds a contemporary qualifying format to a venue that remains a favorite among fans and drivers alike, marrying tradition with innovation.