NASCAR Cup - San Diego

The NASCAR Cup Series returns to San Diego in 2026 with the Anduril 250 Race the Base at Naval Base Coronado. This event marks a historic first for NASCAR, as the series hosts its inaugural street race on an active military base. The race celebrates the United States Navy's 250th anniversary and brings NASCAR back to Southern California for the first time since 2023.

The Coronado Street Course

The Coronado Street Course stretches 3.4 miles across Naval Base Coronado, making it the longest course on the 2026 NASCAR schedule. Drivers will navigate 16 turns on asphalt surfaces that utilize existing streets and tarmac areas of the base. The layout runs primarily along the outer edge of the facility, which limits disruptions to base operations while creating a challenging track for competitors.

Notable Course Features

The Ellyson Start/Finish Line honors Commander Theodore Ellyson, Naval Aviator Number One. Turn 5, known as Carrier Corner, presents a sharp left-hand turn positioned between the docking locations of two aircraft carriers. The Coronado Chicane at Turn 8 tests drivers with a series of technical turns as they speed toward the base's interior. Turn 14, Runway Road, sits near the north end of Runway 18/36 at Halsey Field. The course combines high-speed sections with technical turns, and wet weather tires are approved for use.

Race Weekend Schedule

The Naval Base Coronado event hosts all three major NASCAR series. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series opens the weekend, followed by the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (Xfinity Series). The NASCAR Cup Series race serves as the main event. Prime Video broadcasts the Cup Series race, while The CW covers the Xfinity Series and FOX Sports airs the Truck Series race.

Fan Experience at Naval Base Coronado

NASCAR plans to create distinct neighborhoods throughout the circuit, each offering unique experiences for fans. Grandstand seating and hospitality suites will be available at various locations around the course. The event will feature displays of Navy aircraft and vehicles, connecting fans with military heritage. Navy Community Day provides exclusive access for members of the U.S. Navy and Coronado residents, while general public tickets cover the weekend's main racing days.

Military Connection and Historic Significance

Naval Base Coronado serves as the Navy's West Coast Quarterback, housing 17 squadrons, three aircraft carriers, and four Navy SEAL teams. NASCAR has maintained a long-standing relationship with the U.S. Military, and this event strengthens that partnership. The race format allows NASCAR to continue street racing while honoring patriotic values and engaging with the military community. Amy Lupo, who previously led the launch of NASCAR's Coliseum event, serves as president of the San Diego race. NASCAR partners with Sports San Diego for event promotion.

Southern California Racing Heritage

NASCAR has deep roots in Southern California, with previous races held at Auto Club Speedway, Ontario Motor Speedway, and Riverside International Raceway. The 2026 event at Naval Base Coronado represents the first NASCAR points race in the region since 2023. The San Diego race replaces the Chicago Street Race on the schedule. The concept of racing on a military base has been discussed within NASCAR for several years before coming to fruition in 2026.

What Makes This NASCAR Cup Race Unique

The combination of street racing and a military base setting creates a distinctive event for the NASCAR Cup Series. The 3.4-mile course length challenges teams and drivers differently than traditional ovals or shorter street circuits. Stars of the NASCAR Cup Series will compete on a track that mixes speed with technical precision. The San Diego location provides a scenic backdrop while the military setting adds patriotic elements to the race weekend. This NASCAR Cup event offers fans a new way to experience stock car racing at one of California's most significant military installations.