NASCAR's Coronado Race: A Years-in-the-Making Triumph
A Historic Move for NASCAR
NASCAR's return to Southern California has been a long time coming, and according to Ben Kennedy, the organization’s Executive Vice President and Chief Venue and Racing Innovation Officer, this move was several years in the making. While reports of the event surfaced in mid-June, Kennedy admits he was surprised that the details remained under wraps for so long.
"One of the ideas we had several years ago was to race on a military base," Kennedy shared during an interview with AltDriver. "We've had a number of conversations with bases across the country. We also wanted to find a way to have a presence back here in the Southern California market."
NASCAR has a history of racing in the region, including events at Auto Club Speedway and the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. However, the organization felt it was time to reconnect with fans in the greater Southern California area. This led to discussions with Naval Base Coronado, which eventually resulted in a groundbreaking announcement.
The Tripleheader Weekend
On Wednesday, NASCAR officially revealed plans for a tripleheader weekend taking place from June 19-21, 2026, on Naval Base Coronado. For the first time, all three national series will compete on the historic base, with aircraft carriers and the San Diego skyline serving as a dramatic backdrop.
The event will also coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy, adding a layer of significance to the races. Kennedy emphasized the importance of the timing, stating that it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the sport.
"We believe it's a once-in-a-lifetime moment for our sport, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country and our Navy, then to put on a spectacle of an amazing race for our fans," he added.
Preparations and Challenges
While the announcement marks a significant milestone, there is still a lot of work ahead for NASCAR and its newly appointed track president, Amy Lupo. One of the key challenges is the creation of the track itself. NASCAR has not yet finalized the layout for the tripleheader weekend, and the organization continues to collaborate with iRacing to determine the best course for each series.
Kennedy described the track as a three-mile circuit that will be entirely on the base. The goal is to create different experiences for both viewers watching at home and fans attending in person.
"You're going to see shots that will feature the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, you'll see other shots of the backdrop of San Diego. Actually being here in a bit of the peninsula, between the bay and the ocean, is going to make for an amazing backdrop," he explained.
The course will weave through the base, offering glimpses of aircraft carriers and F-18s on the tarmac. Some parts of the track will be set in stone, while others will remain a blank canvas. There may be long straightaways and more technical sections, depending on the needs of the vehicles competing in each series.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to 2026 begins, NASCAR remains focused on delivering a unique and unforgettable experience for fans. The event promises to blend the excitement of motorsports with the rich history and scenic beauty of Naval Base Coronado. With continued collaboration with iRacing and drivers, the organization is working toward a full reveal of the track layout in the coming months.
This historic race weekend is not just about competition; it's about celebrating the legacy of the U.S. Navy and connecting with fans in a new and meaningful way. As Kennedy noted, it's a moment that will leave a lasting impact on the sport and its supporters.