A Revised Broadcast Landscape
The 2026 season opened with the Watkins Glen International event, which marked the 13th race of the year and the 12th points‑paying date, giving fans an early taste of the new calendar.
Under a fresh media‑rights agreement, Fox will air only 14 of the season’s races, a reduction that reflects the series’ shift toward a more diversified distribution model.
Dover Motor Speedway, a staple of the Cup Series since 1969, will not host a points race next year, ending a streak that has defined the schedule for more than five decades.
In a surprising reversal, North Wilkesboro Speedway is slated to stage its first points race in three decades, breathing new life into a historic track that once nurtured many of the sport’s legends.
The iconic All‑Star Race will now be broadcast on Fox Sports 1, occupying the eighth slot of the season and moving the spectacle to a different platform for viewers.
NBC will cap the year by televising the final race, ensuring that the championship‑deciding event remains on a major network despite the overall reduction in Fox’s slate.
What This Means for Fans
Fans can expect a tighter window of televised action, but the inclusion of North Wilkesboro offers a nostalgic draw, while the All‑Star race’s new home may bring fresh production values.
The reduced Fox schedule also signals a broader realignment of how NASCAR distributes its content, potentially paving the way for more digital and cable options in the years ahead.