Phoenix II

The Phoenix II nascar-xs race at Phoenix International Raceway brings NASCAR Xfinity Series action to the Arizona desert. This race serves as part of the fall racing weekend at the one-mile oval in Avondale, Arizona. Phoenix International Raceway provides a unique challenge for nascar-xs competitors with its distinctive dogleg configuration and varying banking angles.

Circuit Characteristics

Phoenix International Raceway measures exactly one mile around its oval layout. The track sits approximately 20 miles from downtown Phoenix in Avondale, Arizona. The facility features a dogleg kink on the frontstretch, which creates a distinctive racing line for drivers.

The banking varies throughout the circuit. Turns 1 and 2 have 9 degrees of banking, while turns 3 and 4 offer 11 degrees. The frontstretch provides 9 degrees of banking, and the backstretch has just 3 degrees. This low-banking configuration classifies Phoenix as a tri-oval with unique handling characteristics.

The track surface consists of asphalt. Permanent lighting systems allow for racing after sunset. The facility can accommodate 42,000 spectators and offers viewing from various angles around the circuit.

The NASCAR Xfinity Series

The nascar-xs class represents NASCAR's second-tier national series. Teams compete with purpose-built stock cars that share similar specifications across manufacturers. Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota provide the primary manufacturer support for teams and drivers.

The series serves as a development platform for drivers advancing through NASCAR's ranks. Many competitors use the nascar-xs schedule to gain experience at major racing facilities. Veteran drivers also compete in select races throughout the season.

Track History

Phoenix International Raceway opened on January 4, 1964. The facility originally included a road course layout alongside the oval and a drag strip. The track evolved over decades through multiple renovations and configuration changes.

NASCAR's premier series first raced at Phoenix International Raceway on November 6, 1988. Alan Kulwicki won that inaugural race and performed his famous clockwise victory lap. The facility has hosted two NASCAR race weekends annually since 2005.

From 2020 through 2025, Phoenix International Raceway hosted the championship finale races for all three NASCAR national series. The venue returns to its role as a playoff race location for the fall 2026 race weekend.

Notable Features

Monument Hill provides spectators with an elevated view of turns 3 and 4. This natural hillside location served as the original land survey point for Arizona. The vantage point offers a top-down perspective of the racing action.

The dogleg on the frontstretch remains the track's most recognizable feature. This kink was originally incorporated to accommodate the road course layout. Drivers must navigate this section carefully to maintain optimal speed and positioning.

Racing at Phoenix

The Phoenix II race challenges nascar-xs teams with setup decisions. The low banking requires different approaches compared to high-banked ovals. Teams must balance mechanical grip with aerodynamic efficiency. The one-mile distance creates tight racing with frequent position changes.

Tire management plays a significant role during races at Phoenix International Raceway. The asphalt surface and varying banking angles create different wear patterns. Crew chiefs must calculate pit strategy around fuel windows and tire degradation rates.

The track configuration favors drivers who can carry speed through the corners while maintaining control on corner exit. The dogleg adds another variable to overtaking opportunities. Position on track often determines optimal racing lines through each section.

What to Expect

The Phoenix II nascar-xs race delivers competitive action on a unique oval circuit. The fall race weekend attracts fans to the Arizona desert for three days of NASCAR racing across all national series. Phoenix International Raceway provides close racing with multiple grooves available for drivers.

Weather conditions typically favor clear skies for the fall race date. Cooler temperatures compared to summer months affect track conditions and car setup. Teams adjust their approach based on ambient temperature and track surface readings.

This race weekend showcases the nascar-xs field competing at a facility with decades of racing history. Phoenix International Raceway continues to host some of NASCAR's most competitive events on its one-mile oval.