NASCAR is heading back to Southern California in 2026, with San Diego expected to host a Cup Series race next season. An official announcement could come as early as next week.

While the exact location of the event has not been confirmed, Coronado has emerged as a potential host site. It is still unclear whether the race will take place on a street course, a temporary venue, or a repurposed facility, but planning appears to be well underway.

This move will mark NASCAR’s first points-paying race in Southern California since 2023. The last event in the region was held at Fontana’s 2-mile oval, formerly known as Auto Club Speedway. That track was slated to be converted into a short track, but earlier this year NASCAR officially acknowledged those plans have been paused.

San Diego’s addition to the schedule comes as NASCAR continues to evaluate its international and urban market strategies. Discussions are ongoing for potential returns to Mexico City and Chicago. The Chicago Street Race recently completed a three-year run with events held each July. Chicago remains interested in continuing but would likely appear at a different point on the calendar if brought back.

The full 2026 NASCAR schedule is not expected to be released until late summer or early fall. However, San Diego’s inclusion would fill a significant gap in the schedule, reestablishing NASCAR’s presence in a major West Coast market with a large and passionate fan base.

Whether it is a street race, a temporary course, or something entirely new, San Diego’s entry into the Cup Series calendar signals a continued effort to expand the sport’s reach while honoring its regional roots.

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