NASCAR Xfinity - Pocono

Pocono Raceway hosts the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026 as part of a weekend tripleheader at "The Tricky Triangle." The MillerTech Battery 250 brings NASCAR-XS competition to the unique 2.5-mile tri-oval in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania. This race covers 100 laps and 250 miles on one of the most challenging tracks in stock car racing.

The MillerTech Battery 250 at Pocono

The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Pocono Raceway forms part of a comprehensive race weekend. The event shares the schedule with the NASCAR Cup Series Great American Getaway 400 and an ARCA Menards Series race. Pocono provides a stern test for NASCAR-XS drivers with its distinctive three-turn configuration and long straightaways.

Circuit Characteristics

Pocono Raceway stands alone among NASCAR tracks with its three-turn layout. The facility sits in the Pocono Mountains, within a two-hour drive of Philadelphia and New York City. The track measures 2.5 miles around its tri-oval configuration.

Turn Design

Each turn at Pocono presents different challenges. Turn 1 features 14 degrees of banking, inspired by the former Trenton Speedway. Turn 2, known as the Tunnel Turn, has 8 degrees of banking based on Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Turn 3 carries just 6 degrees of banking, modeled after the Milwaukee Mile. This variation forces teams to make significant compromises in car setup.

Straightaway Configuration

The main straightaway stretches 3,740 feet, making it the longest on any North American speedway. The back straightaway measures 3,055 feet. A shorter straightaway between Turns 2 and 3 spans 1,780 feet. The track width varies from 60 to 100 feet.

Technical Demands for NASCAR-XS

The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series continues to compete with the Next Gen car platform. The unique layout at Pocono requires specific setup approaches. A car set up for the steep banking of Turn 1 may struggle in the flatter Turn 2 and Turn 3. The downforce needed for corner grip can reduce speed on the long straightaways.

Turn 3 demands heavy braking and sometimes requires a gear change. This makes Pocono one of the most demanding speedways for drivers and teams. The varying banking and straightaway lengths create a true test of driver skill and team preparation.

Track Heritage

Pocono Raceway broke ground in 1965 and opened in 1969 with a smaller oval. The 2.5-mile tri-oval was completed in 1971. NASCAR Cup Series racing came to Pocono in 1974. The track earned its "Tricky Triangle" nickname from its distinctive three-turn design.

The Mattioli family has owned the facility through Mattco, Inc. since the late 1960s. Pocono remains one of the few independently owned tracks in NASCAR. The facility has hosted multiple racing series over its history, including IndyCar and IMSA competition.

Facility Features

Pocono Raceway installed 40,000 photovoltaic modules in 2010, becoming the largest solar-powered sports facility worldwide at that time. The installation produces significant clean energy. The facility also includes a 2.5-mile road course used for various driving events.

The track location in the Pocono Mountains resort area makes it accessible for fans from major metropolitan areas. Kids 12 and under receive free admission to the 100 and 200 levels of the grandstand and Fan Fair for all NASCAR race days.

What Makes This Race Special

The NASCAR-XS race at Pocono tests drivers on a layout unlike any other on the schedule. The three distinct turns require different approaches and techniques. Drivers must balance speed on the long straightaways with the grip needed through the varied corners. The unique banking angles create passing opportunities in multiple locations.

The MillerTech Battery 250 showcases the talent in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series at one of stock car racing's most demanding venues. Pocono Raceway challenges crew chiefs to find the right setup compromise. The race provides close competition as teams work to optimize their cars for the distinctive tri-oval configuration. This event promises compelling racing action on a track that rewards precision and adaptability.