The U.S. Navy and NASCAR are set to make history as they join forces for a three‑day celebration of the Navy’s 250th anniversary, staging a race at Naval Base Coronado that will bring together fans of both institutions in a way that has never been attempted before.
A Venue Like No Other
The competition will unfold on the Qualcomm Circuit, a 16‑turn, 3.4‑mile layout built directly on the base. Its straightaways and tight corners are framed by an aircraft carrier and fighter jets, creating a backdrop that few sporting events can match.
Three NASCAR series will take part: the Craftsman Truck Series, the United Rentals‑driven Driven to Serve 250 (formerly the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series), and the Anduril‑branded 250 in the Cup Series. Each race will test the drivers’ skill while highlighting the Navy’s diverse missions, from aviation to special warfare.
Capt. Loren Jacobi, commanding officer of Naval Base Coronado, called the event "unprecedented" and emphasized that it offers a rare opportunity to showcase the Navy’s capabilities to millions of viewers across the country.
Haaken Ahiers, an Aviation Machinist's Mate 2nd Class, noted that the split‑second communication of a pit crew mirrors the Navy’s own culture of precision and teamwork, underscoring the deep parallels between the two worlds.
Amy Lupo, President of NASCAR San Diego, expressed honor at bringing the Cup Series, the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series and the Craftsman Truck Series to Coronado, adding that the weekend will feature displays, demonstrations and interactive experiences designed to honor service members and veterans.
Beyond the racing action, the event aims to tell the story of a service that has shaped American history for two and a half centuries, inspiring the next generation while reinforcing the shared values of excellence, innovation and service that bind the Navy and NASCAR.