NASCAR and IMSA study a joint race weekend

NASCAR and IMSA have begun discussions about organizing an event where both series would compete during the same weekend. This rumor emerged after NASCAR executives attended the Annual Executive Dinner hosted by the IMSA President during the Motul Petit Le Mans 2024 event at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. The close relationship between the two organizations has sparked conversations about a possible joint event, although no official announcement has been made. Given that the 2025 schedules are already set, plans are focused on holding this event in 2026.

Possible circuits for a joint event in 2026

As discussions progress and planning for 2026 continues, several circuits have been identified as potentially suitable to host this joint event:

Daytona International Speedway

Daytona is a logical choice for this event. Both NASCAR and IMSA already have iconic races at this circuit, and its infrastructure makes it an ideal option for hosting both series during the same weekend.

Watkins Glen International

The Watkins Glen circuit is another strong candidate. With a long history in both categories, this road course has been successful for NASCAR and IMSA in their respective schedules. Its capacity to host large events makes it a suitable location for this type of collaboration.

Circuit of the Americas (COTA)

The Circuit of the Americas in Texas is a modern and versatile track that has hosted multiple top-tier competitions. The venue’s ability to host different categories in one weekend makes it a solid option for a joint event between NASCAR and IMSA.

Charlotte Motor Speedway (Roval)

The Charlotte Roval is another track that could host this event. NASCAR and IMSA have used it in the past, and its combination of oval and road course could offer an exciting spectacle for fans of both series.

Where did the rumor come from?

The interest in a joint NASCAR and IMSA weekend arose during recent interactions between executives of both organizations. NASCAR President Steve Phelps and other senior executives, such as Brian Herbst, attended the dinner hosted by IMSA during the Motul Petit Le Mans event in Atlanta. During the event, the possibility of unifying both championships for a single weekend was discussed, something that hasn’t happened since 2014. Although nothing has been confirmed, discussions are ongoing, and it is expected that, if this event takes place, it will be in 2026.