A radical new format for the All‑Star race
The 2026 NASCAR All‑Star Race will take place on May 17 at 1 p.m. Eastern Time at Dover Motor Speedway in Delaware, marking the series’ first event where every one of the 36 entries is entered from the outset. Denny Hamlin, a two‑time Cup Series runner‑up, will start from pole position, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.
The event is split into three segments. The opening 75‑lap segment runs without a competition caution, while the second segment inverts the order of the top 26 drivers for another 75 laps. The final segment reduces the field to 26 cars and culminates in a 200‑lap sprint that awards the winner a $1 million prize.
Fox Sports 1 will broadcast the race live, and fans can watch for free via streaming platforms such as DIRECTV and Fubo TV. The broadcast arrangement reflects a strategic partnership aimed at maximizing reach across the United States.
In addition to the on‑track competition, the race features a fan‑driven voting mechanism that grants one spot to the highest‑voted supporter, while the remaining positions are determined by performance in the earlier segments. This blend of sport and audience interaction signals a new direction for NASCAR’s flagship exhibition.