NASCAR will hold a race in San Diego in 2026.

NASCAR will hold its first race at an active military facility on June 21, 2026 at the Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. The event is part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy and will bring together all three national series categories.

Photo By Carlos Castillo

Amy Lupo to lead NASCAR San Diego with X Games experience

NASCAR has appointed Amy Lupo as event director for San Diego. The executive brings over 25 years of experience organizing major sporting events and led the successful launch of the Clash at the Coliseum in Los Angeles after joining NASCAR in 2021.

"We're honored that NASCAR is participating in this celebration by organizing our first street race at a military base, Naval Base Coronado, as part of our nation's 250th anniversary," said Ben Kennedy, executive vice president and chief racing development officer.

Prime Video to broadcast Cup Series on Sunday, June 21

The weekend will span three consecutive days. The NASCAR Xfinity Series will kick off the action on Friday, June 19. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will compete on Saturday, June 20. The premier Cup Series race will close the event on Sunday, June 21 as the fifth and final Prime Video broadcast in 2026.

NASCAR working on improvements for Chicago's return in 2027

San Diego replaces the Chicago street race, which won't return in 2026 after completing its initial three-year contract. Chicago event president Julie Giese informed Mayor Brandon Johnson that NASCAR will maintain its local office and continue community partnerships while working toward a 2027 return.

"Our goal is for the Chicago Street Race to return in 2027 with an event that further enhances the experience for residents and visitors, as we work together toward a potential new date, a shorter build timeline, and additional tourist attractions," Giese wrote to the mayor.

The Chicago race faced criticism from local businesses and residents due to street closures in a high-traffic tourist area during summer. NASCAR managed to reduce the construction period from 43 days in 2023 to 25 days this year, which helped address some complaints.

Secretary John C. Phelan highlights shared values with NASCAR

NASCAR embodies the best of the American spirit: speed, precision, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Holding a race at Naval Air Station North Island, the birthplace of naval aviation, goes beyond being a historic first: it's a tribute to the values we share

The Naval Base Coronado encompasses nine naval facilities distributed from San Clemente Island, located 50 miles from Long Beach, to the mountain warfare training center 50 miles east of San Diego. The installations house 17 squadrons, three aircraft carriers, four SEAL teams, and various air, naval, and submarine commands.

Photo By Carlos Castillo

NASCAR will soon reveal the final design of the San Diego street course. The race will take place within the facilities of Naval Air Station North Island, considered the birthplace of U.S. naval aviation.

The event logo features an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the Navy's exclusive combat aircraft. The three stars in the design symbolize land, sea, and air - the only three operational environments of this military branch. The arch reflects San Diego's characteristic colonial mission architectural style.

Mark Neville projects major tourism impact for region

"This is a huge win for San Diego and we deeply appreciate the partnership with NASCAR," said Mark Neville, executive director of Sports San Diego. The nonprofit organization will collaborate in event operations and promotion.

Sports San Diego has generated over one billion dollars in economic impact for the region since 1978, organizing events like the Super Bowl, X Games, MLB All-Star Game, U.S. Open, and Breeders' Cup.