NASCAR Xfinity - Iowa

The Hy-Vee PERKS 250 brings NASCAR Xfinity Series action to Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa. This race at the 0.875-mile short track offers close competition and intense racing action on the D-shaped oval. Iowa Speedway, located approximately 35 miles east of Des Moines, serves as the venue for this premier stock car racing event.

About the Hy-Vee PERKS 250

The Hy-Vee PERKS 250 showcases the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Iowa Speedway. The race features a field of rising stars and experienced competitors battling on one of the most unique short tracks in professional stock car racing. The 0.875-mile asphalt oval provides intense side-by-side racing opportunities throughout the event.

Iowa Speedway Circuit Details

Iowa Speedway measures 0.875 miles in length, making it a true short track on the NASCAR circuit. The D-shaped oval features progressive banking in the turns ranging from 12 to 14 degrees. The frontstretch has 10 degrees of banking while the backstretch features 4 degrees of banking. This asphalt surface creates multiple racing lines for drivers to utilize.

The facility holds 30,000 permanent seats with total capacity reaching approximately 40,000 when including temporary seating. A multi-tiered recreational vehicle viewing area along the backstretch provides a unique vantage point for fans. Iowa Speedway earned distinction as the first track to install SAFER barriers around its entire perimeter.

NASCAR Xfinity Series Competitors

The Xfinity Series field at Iowa includes full-time competitors and select Cup Series drivers. Teams prepare their cars specifically for short track racing at this venue. The close quarters racing at Iowa Speedway tests both driver skill and crew chief strategy throughout the race distance.

Technical Specifications

NASCAR Xfinity Series cars compete with V8 engines producing approximately 650 horsepower at short tracks like Iowa. Teams utilize specialized setups for the unique characteristics of the 0.875-mile oval. The progressive banking in the corners requires careful attention to suspension and aerodynamic balance.

Track History and Background

Iowa Speedway opened in September 2006 with a construction cost of approximately $70 million. NASCAR acquired ownership of the facility in November 2013. The track hosted Xfinity Series races annually from 2009 to 2019, establishing a strong tradition with the series before returning to the schedule.

NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace contributed significantly to the track design, patterning it after Richmond Raceway. This design input from a championship-winning driver helped create a racing surface that promotes competitive action. The venue has served as a proving ground for many drivers who advanced to higher levels of NASCAR competition.

What Makes This Event Special

The short track configuration at Iowa Speedway creates close racing throughout the field. Drivers must navigate the progressive banking while managing tire wear over long runs. The compact layout allows fans to see the entire racing surface from most seating locations.

Iowa Speedway brings professional stock car racing to the Midwest market. The track's design promotes passing opportunities in multiple areas around the circuit. Strategy calls regarding pit stops and track position play crucial roles in determining race outcomes at this venue.

The 2026 edition of the Hy-Vee PERKS 250 continues the NASCAR Xfinity Series tradition at Iowa Speedway. The race provides compelling competition on a short track that rewards both driver talent and smart team execution. This event represents an important stop for Xfinity Series teams and drivers pursuing championship goals.