NASCAR Cup - San Diego

The NASCAR Cup Series will make history in 2026 with a street race at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. This marks the first time NASCAR will compete on an active military installation. The Anduril 250 serves as the centerpiece of NASCAR San Diego Weekend, a three-day event that celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy and the nation.

Race Format and Coverage

The NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado will span 75 laps and cover 255 miles. The first two stages consist of 20 laps each, while the final stage runs 35 laps. Prime Video will broadcast the Cup Series race, marking the final event in their five-race window for 2026. The weekend also includes the NASCAR Xfinity Series race and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race, creating a complete racing experience in San Diego.

The Naval Base Coronado Circuit

The temporary street circuit at Naval Air Station North Island measures 3.4 miles and features 16 turns. The course winds through the military base with views of San Diego Bay, aircraft carriers, and fighter jets creating a unique backdrop. The asphalt track includes varied banking, with turns banked at 24-28 degrees, the backstretch at 4-8 degrees, and the frontstretch at 5-9 degrees. Teams will navigate this technical layout with a caution speed set at 35 MPH.

Track Characteristics

The 3.4-mile length combines with 16 turns to create a challenging test for drivers and teams. The street course format differs substantially from traditional oval tracks, requiring specific vehicle setups that balance speed and handling. The temporary nature of the circuit means teams will adapt their strategies to suit this distinct racing environment.

A Historic NASCAR Event

This San Diego race represents only the second street course in the NASCAR Cup Series modern era. The event replaces the Chicago Street Race on the schedule and brings NASCAR racing to a new market. The location at Naval Base Coronado creates a connection between NASCAR and the United States Navy, honoring shared values of teamwork and dedication.

The timing aligns with the Navy's 250th anniversary, making this NASCAR Cup Series race a celebration of American military heritage. NASCAR Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy described the event as a "once-in-a-generation" moment. San Diego will host tens of thousands of spectators for what stands as one of the city's major sporting events in 2026.

Competition and Technical Elements

The NASCAR Cup Series field is expected to feature top drivers competing on this unique circuit. The street course layout will challenge driver skill and crew chief strategy. Teams must balance their setups for the varied banking and multiple turns while maintaining competitive speed over the 255-mile distance.

The NASCAR San Diego Weekend at Naval Base Coronado promises a memorable racing spectacle. The combination of the military setting, challenging circuit design, and high-level Cup Series competition creates an event unlike any other on the schedule. This race demonstrates NASCAR's commitment to bringing the sport to diverse locations and audiences across the country.