NASCAR Cup - Las Vegas

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series returns to Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the Pennzoil 400, one of two premier stock car races held at this Nevada venue. Las Vegas Motor Speedway serves as a major destination for NASCAR racing, offering fans an opportunity to watch top drivers compete on a 1.5-mile tri-oval track. The spring race brings the NASCAR Cup Series to the entertainment capital, combining high-speed racing with the unique atmosphere of Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway Circuit Details

Las Vegas Motor Speedway sits approximately 15 miles northeast of the Las Vegas Strip in Clark County, Nevada. The main track measures 1.5 miles in length and features a tri-oval configuration. The turns carry 20 degrees of banking, while the frontstretch and backstretch have 9 degrees of banking. The asphalt surface provides consistent grip for the NASCAR Cup Series competitors.

The speedway complex holds 80,000 spectators and includes multiple racing facilities. Beyond the main oval, the property features The Bullring, a 0.375-mile oval, a 0.5-mile clay oval, a drag strip known as The Strip, and several road course layouts. This variety of racing venues makes Las Vegas Motor Speedway a versatile motorsports facility.

Technical Specifications for 2026

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series introduces specific technical regulations for Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Engines will produce 750 horsepower, reflecting updates to power output for intermediate tracks. The cars will run the short-track and road-course aero package, which includes a three-inch rear spoiler and a reduced number of rear diffuser strakes.

NASCAR mandates A-post flaps at all Cup Series tracks in 2026 to prevent cars from becoming airborne. These safety devices feature bright orange material underneath the flap for visibility. New manufacturers participating in testing must complete all sessions by March 1, with restrictions on testing at repaved tracks or within 60 days of scheduled events.

Participants and Teams

The 2026 season brings several driver and team changes to the NASCAR Cup Series. Connor Zilisch joins Trackhouse Racing, while Daniel Suarez moves to Spire Motorsports. Established teams continue to field competitive entries, and the driver lineup represents a mix of veteran racers and emerging talent. RAM enters the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series as a new manufacturer, expanding the brand presence in NASCAR competition.

The Neon Garage Experience

Las Vegas Motor Speedway offers fans access to The Neon Garage, an interactive area that provides viewing platforms and entertainment spaces. This facility allows race attendees to observe teams and drivers at work, creating a closer connection between fans and competitors. The garage area reflects the unique character of Las Vegas as a host city for NASCAR racing.

Track History and Evolution

The speedway complex opened in 1971 with a drag strip and dirt oval. Las Vegas Motor Speedway hosted its first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race in 1996, followed by the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race in 1998. Track officials redesigned the facility in 2006, increasing the banking in the turns from 12 to 20 degrees. This modification changed the racing characteristics and allowed for higher speeds.

The speedway gained a second NASCAR Cup Series date in 2018, with the fall race serving as the first event in the NASCAR playoffs. This addition elevated the importance of Las Vegas Motor Speedway on the NASCAR schedule. Kurt Busch holds the track record for the fastest lap in the NASCAR Cup Series at 196.328 mph.

What Makes This Race Notable

Las Vegas Motor Speedway bills itself as "America's Racing Showplace" and has hosted races across multiple series, including NASCAR, IndyCar, and Champ Car. The venue also hosts large-scale EDM music festivals, demonstrating its versatility as an entertainment facility. The combination of professional racing and Las Vegas attractions creates a distinct atmosphere for the NASCAR Cup Series race.

The spring race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway represents an important early-season test for NASCAR Cup Series teams. The intermediate track characteristics require balanced car setups, and success here often indicates strong preparation for similar venues throughout the season. The Nevada desert setting and proximity to Las Vegas provide a backdrop unlike any other stop on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule.