Nascar has announced it will hold street races at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego next year.
Confirmed:
- New event will feature all three national series between 19th June and 21st June
- Nascar partnering with non-profit body Sports San Diego for operational and promotional support
- Amy Lupo named as president of Nascar San Diego
Context:
The new San Diego event will give Nascar a street race replacement for the Chicago Street Race, which is not returning next year but could return in 2027.
Naval Base Coronado now becomes the first active military base to host Nascar racing and the second street race in the series’ history. The event will also serve as a celebration of the US Navy’s 250th anniversary next year.
This is the first Nascar event in Southern California since February 2024, when the preseason Clash event was last held at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Comment:
“What a special way to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Navy, 250th anniversary of our country and put on what is going to be undoubtedly the most anticipated event of 2026,” said Ben Kennedy, Nascar’s executive vice president, chief venue and racing innovation officer. “And I’m bullish on it being the best sporting event of the year.”
“Nascar embodies the very best of the American spirit through speed, precision and an unyielding pursuit of excellence,” added John C Phelan, secretary of the Navy.
“Hosting a race aboard Naval Air Station North Island, the birthplace of naval aviation, it’s not just a historic first, it’s a powerful tribute to the values we share: grit, teamwork and love of country. From the flight deck to the finish line, this collaboration reflects the operational intensity and unity of purpose that define both the United States Navy and Nascar.”
Coming next:
More details on the street course layout will be unveiled at a later date, though the vision for the track is already taking shape, partly through on-base driving and via iRacing. Nascar has previously used the racing simulator for projects like the Clash at the LA Coliseum and the Chicago Street Race.
Go deeper:
Don’t miss the latest news and insights from across the business world of motorsport. Subscribe to the BlackBook Motorsport Weekly newsletter .
