Iowa

The NASCAR Xfinity Series returns to Iowa Speedway for the HyVee Perks 250, a race that showcases short-track competition at one of the sport's most distinctive venues. This 250-lap race covers 218.75 miles on the Iowa oval, bringing nascar-xs action to Newton, Iowa. The track sits approximately 35 miles east of Des Moines and offers fans a unique racing experience at a facility built specifically for close-quarters competition.

The Iowa Speedway Circuit

Iowa Speedway measures 0.875 miles in length and features a D-shaped oval configuration. The track uses progressive banking in its turns, ranging from 12 to 14 degrees. The frontstretch has 10 degrees of banking, while the backstretch features 4 degrees. NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace designed the track, drawing inspiration from Richmond International Raceway. The facility opened in 2006 after construction began in late 2005. NASCAR has owned Iowa Speedway since 2013.

The venue accommodates 30,000 fans in traditional seating. A multi-tiered recreational vehicle viewing area along the backstretch can increase total capacity to around 40,000. This RV section provides a distinctive viewing experience that sets Iowa Speedway apart from other tracks. The complex also includes seven road course layouts, including a 1.3-mile roval that combines portions of the oval with an infield section.

Expected Participants for the 2026 Race

The HyVee Perks 250 will feature drivers competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The series typically attracts a mix of emerging talent, experienced competitors, and occasional entries from Cup Series drivers. Current nascar-xs standouts include Justin Allgaier, Carson Kvapil, Jesse Love, Sheldon Creed, and Sam Mayer. These drivers and others will compete for position and championship points at Iowa.

Technical Specifications

NASCAR Xfinity Series cars follow strict technical regulations. Each car weighs a minimum of 3,200 pounds without the driver. With the driver and fuel, the minimum weight increases to 3,400 pounds. The cars use naturally aspirated pushrod V8 engines with a displacement of 5,860 cc (358 cubic inches). These engines produce between 650 and 700 horsepower in unrestricted form, or approximately 450 horsepower with restrictor plates. Torque output reaches around 700 Newton-meters (520 foot-pounds).

Sunoco supplies the fuel, which consists of 85% unleaded gasoline and 15% Green Ethanol E15. Each car carries 18 US gallons of fuel. The vehicles feature a 110-inch wheelbase, power recirculating ball steering, and Goodyear slick tires. A four-speed transmission handles power delivery to the rear wheels.

Racing History at Iowa

The NASCAR Xfinity Series first competed at Iowa Speedway in 2009. The track hosted races annually from 2009 through 2019, then returned to the schedule in 2024. Several notable drivers have won at Iowa in the nascar-xs series, including Christopher Bell, Justin Allgaier, and Brad Keselowski. The track has established itself as a challenging venue where drivers must master close-quarters racing on a short oval.

What Makes Iowa Speedway Distinctive

Iowa Speedway holds the distinction of being the only track designed by a former NASCAR driver. Rusty Wallace created the layout, and the track address honors his contribution on Rusty Wallace Drive. The facility was the first to install SAFER Barrier protection around its entire perimeter during construction. This safety feature became standard at other tracks following Iowa's implementation.

The venue emphasizes fan accessibility and viewing quality. The two-tier RV area offers an unconventional way to watch races, providing elevated sightlines along the backstretch. The compact size of the track allows spectators to see the entire racing surface from most vantage points. The D-shaped configuration creates varied racing lines and passing opportunities throughout each lap.

Track Versatility

Beyond the main oval, Iowa Speedway operates seven different road course configurations. This versatility allows the facility to host various racing series and events. The 1.3-mile roval layout combines elements of oval and road course racing, though the NASCAR Xfinity Series competes on the traditional oval configuration for the HyVee Perks 250.

The race at Iowa Speedway offers fans a chance to see nascar-xs competitors navigate a technical short track where driver skill and car setup play critical roles. The progressive banking and compact layout create conditions where positions can change rapidly and racing remains competitive throughout the field. Iowa continues to serve as an important venue for the NASCAR Xfinity Series, testing drivers on a track that rewards precision and racecraft.