The Brickyard 400 Returns to Its Historic Roots
NASCAR is set to reclaim the iconic Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, turning the historic 2.5‑mile oval into the centerpiece of the 2026 schedule and reminding fans why the event remains a crown jewel of the sport.
Bubba Wallace, the reigning champion after his 2025 victory, enters the race with the goal of adding another Brickyard triumph to his résumé, while Kyle Larson, who captured the 2024 edition, continues to be a serious threat.
Among the contenders, Denny Hamlin has distinguished himself on intermediate tracks throughout the season, and statistical simulations now project a 19.2% chance of him crossing the finish line first, making him the clear favorite according to oddsmakers.
Ty Gibbs has posted four consecutive top‑10 finishes, underscoring his consistency, while Ryan Blaney and Todd Gilliland are slated to meet in the In‑Season Challenge finals, adding another layer of intrigue to the weekend.
With five Cup Series races remaining before the playoffs begin, the outcomes of those events will also lock in several Chase berths, including spots already secured for Denny Hamlin, Tyler Reddick and Ryan Blaney.