NASCAR Cup - Iowa

The NASCAR Cup Series returns to Iowa Speedway for the Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol. This premier stock car racing series brings its top teams and drivers to the Newton, Iowa facility for 350 laps of short track competition. The race covers a total distance of 306.25 miles on the 0.875-mile tri-oval circuit. Iowa Speedway continues to serve as a competitive venue for NASCAR's highest level of racing, offering fans an opportunity to watch Cup Series action at a facility known for close racing and excellent viewing conditions.

Iowa Speedway Circuit Details

Iowa Speedway is a 0.875-mile tri-oval short track located approximately 35 miles east of Des Moines. NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace contributed to the track's design, which takes inspiration from Richmond International Raceway. The circuit features progressive banking in the turns that ranges from 12 to 14 degrees. The frontstretch has 10 degrees of banking, while the backstretch has 4 degrees. The track width measures 60 feet throughout the circuit.

The facility offers seating for 30,000 spectators, with capacity potentially reaching 40,000 when including recreational vehicle viewing areas. Interstate 80 provides direct access to the venue. The track's layout and banking configuration allow for multiple racing lines, which contributes to competitive racing and passing opportunities.

Race Format and Structure

The Iowa Corn 350 consists of 350 laps divided into three stages. The stage format is expected to follow the structure of 70 laps for Stage 1, 140 laps for Stage 2 (ending at lap 210), and 140 laps for the final stage. This stage racing format awards points to the top finishers at the end of each stage before the final checkered flag. USA Network, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio are expected to provide race coverage for fans following the event.

Technical Specifications for 2026

NASCAR has implemented several technical updates for the 2026 season that affect racing at Iowa Speedway. The target engine output for NASCAR Cup Series cars at tracks measuring 1.5 miles or less has increased to 750 horsepower, up from the previous 670 hp specification. Iowa Speedway will utilize the short track and road course rules package, which includes a three-inch rear spoiler and fewer rear diffuser strakes.

All NASCAR Cup Series entries must now have A-post flaps installed for every track. These flaps deploy alongside roof flaps to reduce the chance of a car becoming airborne during a spin. The material underneath the A-post flap must be bright orange for visibility purposes. These safety and performance regulations apply to all competitors in the Iowa Corn 350.

Participants and Competition

All full-time NASCAR Cup Series teams and their drivers are expected to compete at Iowa Speedway. The field will include entries from established organizations such as Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, Team Penske, and other leading teams. Drivers compete for championship points and race victories throughout the season, making each event important in the overall standings.

The NASCAR Cup Series represents the top level of stock car racing in North America. Teams employ specialized setups for short track racing, which requires different approaches compared to larger superspeedways or road courses. The technical demands of Iowa Speedway challenge both drivers and crew chiefs to find optimal performance from their race cars.

History and Background

Iowa Speedway opened in 2006 and quickly established itself as a quality short track facility. The venue has hosted various racing series over the years, including IndyCar Series, ARCA Menards Series, and NASCAR's Xfinity and Craftsman Truck series since 2009. NASCAR acquired full ownership of the facility in 2013.

After a period without national series events following 2019, Iowa Speedway returned to prominence with the addition of a NASCAR Cup Series race beginning in 2024. This marked a significant development for the facility, as the Cup Series represents NASCAR's premier racing category. The Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol continues this presence of top-level stock car racing at the Newton facility.

Unique Aspects of Iowa Speedway

Iowa Speedway was designed with input from Rusty Wallace, who aimed to create a track that combines elements of both superspeedway and short track racing. The progressive banking in the turns allows drivers to choose different racing lines, whether running high, middle, or low through the corners. This characteristic promotes side-by-side racing and overtaking opportunities.

The facility was among the first racing venues to install SAFER barriers around its entire perimeter, demonstrating a commitment to safety. Iowa Speedway has served as a developmental venue where many drivers gained experience before advancing to higher levels of competition. Notable alumni include Ryan Blaney and Josef Newgarden, who competed at the track earlier in their careers.

The fan-friendly atmosphere at Iowa Speedway provides spectators with close proximity to the action. The compact nature of the facility means fans can see the entire track from most seating locations. The combination of competitive racing, accessible viewing, and quality facilities makes Iowa Speedway a valued venue for the NASCAR Cup Series schedule.