
NASCAR Cup Series Returns to Watkins Glen in 2026
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International is set for Sunday, May 10, with Shane van Gisbergen on pole and Tyler Reddick leading the points standings.
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The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International is set for Sunday, May 10, with Shane van Gisbergen on pole and Tyler Reddick leading the points standings.

Shane van Gisbergen secured his second consecutive NASCAR Cup Series win at Watkins Glen, rallying from a 23‑spot deficit and tying Chase Elliott for the most road‑and‑street victories among active drivers.

After dominating Watkins Glen for the second straight year, Shane van Gisbergen is targeting a Chase berth by sharpening his oval performance, while Trackhouse Racing eyes continued progress.

Shane van Gisbergen’s second consecutive Watkins Glen triumph not only cements his Chase position but also highlights his ambition to conquer oval tracks, while his team eyes broader international talent through Project 91.

Van Gisbergen led 74 of 100 laps, overcame a late pit stop, and won by more than seven seconds. Trackhouse Racing’s Connor Zilisch finished 20th after a tire issue, and Chase Elliott pushed for his uncle Ernie Elliott’s NASCAR Hall of Fame consideration. The spring event at Watkins Glen may be the only one of its kind, with the All‑Star Race set for Dover on May 17.
Shane van Gisbergen led 74 of 100 laps at Watkins Glen International, crossing the finish line seven seconds ahead of Michael McDowell, while Ty Gibbs claimed third place.

While the race featured a high proportion of lead‑lap completions, several untelevised moments reshaped the outcome, from driver frustrations to fuel miscalculations.