Phoenix

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series returns to Phoenix Raceway in Arizona for a competitive race on the unique one-mile desert oval. Phoenix Raceway, formerly known as Phoenix International Raceway, hosts this nascar-truck series event as part of the fall racing schedule. The race marks a transition for the series at this venue, as the championship finale has moved to a different track, allowing Phoenix to showcase regular-season competition.

About the Phoenix NASCAR Truck Series Race

Phoenix Raceway welcomes the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for a 150-lap race covering 150 miles on its distinctive oval configuration. The specific sponsored event name will be announced closer to race weekend. Drivers and teams will compete on one of the most challenging short tracks in NASCAR, where strategy and skill combine to produce memorable racing action.

The nascar-truck series field features full-time championship contenders alongside part-time entries, often including drivers from the Cup Series and Xfinity Series who seek additional track time. Teams representing Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, and the newly-returned Ram manufacturer will battle for position on the tricky desert oval.

Phoenix Raceway Circuit Details

Phoenix Raceway sits in Avondale, Arizona, approximately 20 miles west of downtown Phoenix. The facility has earned a reputation as one of NASCAR's most unique venues due to its unusual layout and racing characteristics.

Track Configuration

The Phoenix International Raceway oval measures exactly one mile in length with a distinctive dogleg shape. The track features a dogleg kink on the backstretch, originally incorporated to accommodate a road course layout. This design element creates multiple racing lines and strategic opportunities for drivers.

The turns feature progressive banking angles. Turns 1 and 2 have 9 degrees of banking, while Turns 3 and 4 increase to 11 degrees. The frontstretch carries 9 degrees of banking, and the backstretch has just 3 degrees. The asphalt surface seats 42,000 spectators, and permanent lighting installed in 2011 enables night racing.

Racing Characteristics

The dogleg in the backstretch creates distinct racing challenges. Drivers must adjust their lines through this section, which opens up multiple grooves for passing. The progressive banking in the turns rewards precision, as slight variations in entry angle significantly affect lap times. Phoenix Raceway demands smooth throttle control and careful tire management throughout each run.

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Participants

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series serves as NASCAR's third national touring series. Young drivers use this platform to develop their skills and advance their careers. Veteran racers also compete, bringing experience and speed to the field.

Entry lists for Phoenix typically include full-time teams fighting for championship points, plus select entries from organizations running partial schedules. Cup Series and Xfinity Series regulars occasionally join the field, adding depth and competition. The manufacturer diversity strengthens in 2026 with Ram joining Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota in nascar-truck competition.

Technical Specifications of NASCAR Trucks

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series vehicles are purpose-built racing machines constructed to strict regulations. Each truck features a steel tube frame with a comprehensive safety roll cage meeting NASCAR standards.

Engine and Performance

The trucks use naturally aspirated pushrod V8 engines displacing either 6.2 liters (376 cubic inches) or 5.86 liters (358 cubic inches). These engines run on either carburetors or electronic fuel injection. Toyota, Chevrolet, Ford, and Ilmor supply engine packages to teams.

Power output reaches approximately 650-700 brake horsepower in unrestricted configuration. Engines generate around 520 ft-lb of torque. Drivers shift a 4-speed manual transmission. The trucks run on Sunoco Green E15 fuel, a blend of 85% unleaded gasoline and 15% ethanol. Goodyear supplies all tires for the series.

Chassis and Weight

The minimum weight without driver and fuel is 3,200 pounds (1,451 kg). With driver and fuel, minimum weight increases to 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg). The wheelbase measures approximately 124 inches, with a width of 76.5 inches. Overall length reaches about 203 inches, and height measures 60 inches. Minimum ground clearance is set at 4 inches.

History of NASCAR Trucks at Phoenix

Phoenix Raceway holds special significance in NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series history. The venue hosted the very first official NASCAR SuperTruck Series race on February 5, 1995. Mike Skinner won that inaugural event, the Skoal Bandit Copper World Classic.

From 1995 to 1998, Phoenix International Raceway held two nascar-truck races annually. Since 1999, the facility has typically hosted one truck series event each year, usually in the fall season. Kevin Harvick leads all drivers with four Truck Series victories at Phoenix. Other successful drivers at this track include Kyle Busch, Christopher Bell, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and Corey Heim.

Unique Aspects of Phoenix Raceway

Phoenix Raceway opened in 1964 as a multi-layout facility featuring both a 1-mile oval and a 2.7-mile road course. The designers intended it to become the western home of open-wheel racing. The unique configuration has earned the track the nickname "the desert oddball."

Monument Hill provides a popular viewing location alongside turns 3 and 4. Spectators gather on this elevated hillside for a distinctive perspective of the racing action. The hill also contains a historic land survey marker for Arizona.

In 1988, Alan Kulwicki performed his famous "Polish victory lap" at Phoenix after earning his first NASCAR Cup Series win. He drove clockwise around the track in celebration, a move he had planned months in advance. The gesture became his signature celebration throughout his career.

The track has operated under several names throughout its history, including ISM Raceway from 2018 to 2020, before returning to Phoenix Raceway. NASCAR currently owns and operates the facility.

What to Expect from the Phoenix NASCAR Truck Race

The Phoenix nascar-truck race delivers close competition on a challenging short track. The dogleg backstretch and progressive banking create opportunities for different racing strategies. Teams must balance handling through the unique turns while maintaining speed on the straights.

Tire wear plays a crucial role at Phoenix. The abrasive surface tests tire compounds throughout long runs. Crew chiefs must decide between track position and fresh tires during caution periods. These strategic choices often determine race outcomes.

The one-mile layout keeps the field bunched together, allowing for frequent position changes. Lap traffic becomes a factor as leaders encounter slower trucks. Drivers who navigate traffic efficiently gain advantages over their competitors. Side-by-side racing occurs frequently, with multiple grooves available around the Phoenix Raceway oval.

Night racing conditions can alter track temperatures and handling characteristics as the race progresses. Teams adjust their setups to account for these changes, making in-race adjustments critical for success.