The 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season will open with a historic race at Richmond Raceway, marking the first time the championship-deciding Chase begins on the 0.75‑mile short track.
A New September Tradition
The weekend of September 10‑11 will see the series move from its traditional August slot to September, giving fans a late‑summer showdown under the lights.
The event will also feature the iconic Southern 500 at Darlington and a race from the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, adding depth to the weekend’s schedule.
Richmond Raceway President Lori Waran described the change as an ‘incredible opportunity’ to elevate the stakes and enhance the fan experience, underscoring the track’s deep roots in NASCAR history.
Night Racing Returns
The centerpiece of the weekend will be a night race, a long‑awaited tradition that promises dramatic on‑track action as the lights illuminate the track.
Since its debut in 1953, Richmond Raceway has been a staple of the sport, hosting thrilling battles on its concrete surface and earning a reputation as one of NASCAR’s most storied venues.
Fans can expect a weekend that blends historic tradition with fresh excitement, as the series looks to kick off the championship with a high‑stakes event that could set the tone for the remainder of the season.