Iowa

The Iowa Corn 350 powered by Ethanol brings NASCAR Cup Series competition to Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa. This race covers 350 laps around the 0.875-mile paved tri-oval, totaling 306.25 miles of short-track racing. USA Network provides television coverage, while Motor Racing Network broadcasts the race on radio. The event returns to Iowa Speedway for the third consecutive year, cementing the track's place in Cup Series competition.

Iowa Speedway Circuit Details

Iowa Speedway sits approximately 35 miles east of Des Moines, with easy access from Interstate 80. NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace contributed to the track's design, which draws inspiration from Richmond International Raceway. The facility features progressive banking in the turns, ranging from 12 to 14 degrees. The frontstretch has 10 degrees of banking, while the backstretch features 4 degrees.

The D-shaped oval measures 60 feet wide with a 20-foot apron. Seating capacity ranges from 30,000 to 40,000 spectators. A multi-tiered Recreational Vehicle viewing area along the backstretch provides unique sightlines for fans. Beyond the main oval, the complex includes seven road course layouts, including a 1.3-mile "roval" configuration that combines parts of the oval with an infield road course.

NASCAR Cup Series Technical Specifications

The Cup Series cars competing at Iowa Speedway utilize specific technical configurations for short-track racing. Engines produce 750 horsepower at tracks measuring less than 1.5 miles. The short-track rules package includes a three-inch rear spoiler and fewer diffuser strakes. A-post flaps deploy with roof flaps to reduce the chance of cars lifting during spins, with bright orange surfaces beneath these flaps for high visibility. All cars feature the Next Gen chassis.

Competitors and Teams

The Iowa Corn 350 features top NASCAR Cup Series competitors. Full-time organizations such as Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Team Penske field entries. Three manufacturers compete: Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota. The race weekend also includes the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Hy-Vee PERKS 250.

Track History and Safety Innovations

Iowa Speedway opened in September 2006. NASCAR acquired ownership of the facility in 2013. The track has hosted IndyCar, ARCA Menards Series, and NASCAR Xfinity and Truck Series events throughout its history. The venue joined the Cup Series calendar in 2024, with races selling out quickly.

Iowa Speedway was the first track to install SAFER Barrier along its entire perimeter. The facility also became the first to use second-generation energy-absorbing safety barrier technology. These innovations demonstrate the track's commitment to driver safety.

What Makes This Race Special

Iowa Speedway's design blends close-quarters short-track racing with competitive action. The progressive banking allows multiple racing lines through the turns. The track's width gives drivers room to race side by side. Newton, Iowa becomes a focal point for NASCAR Cup Series fans during race weekend. The combination of technical track characteristics and powerful race cars creates competitive racing throughout the field.

The multi-tiered RV area offers fans an elevated view of the action, particularly along the backstretch. This feature enhances the spectator experience and adds to the venue's overall capacity. The track's location in Iowa makes it accessible for fans across the Midwest region.