Homestead-Miami Speedway is officially back in the NASCAR spotlight. In 2026, the 1.5-mile track in South Florida will once again host the season-ending races for the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Craftsman Truck Series. This announcement marks a return to tradition and a new direction for the sport as it enters a future with rotating championship venues. While Phoenix Raceway has held the Championship Weekend since 2020, NASCAR officials now say it is time to pass the torch back to Homestead-Miami.
A Historic Return to South Florida
From 2002 to 2019, Homestead-Miami Speedway was the ultimate battleground where champions were crowned. NASCAR fans remember dramatic moments such as Tony Stewart‘s first title run in 2002 and his 2011 tiebreaker win over Carl Edwards. It was also the place where Jimmie Johnson captured all seven of his Cup Series championships and where stars like Kevin Harvick, Kyle Busch, Martin Truex Jr., and Joey Logano earned their first championship trophies. That deep history, combined with the track’s competitive design, made it a fan-favorite finale for nearly two decades.
Why Homestead Is Built for Championships
According to Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s Executive Vice President, Homestead’s return has been eagerly awaited. The venue features a worn racing surface and progressive banking, allowing multiple racing grooves and unpredictable action. Kennedy, who once competed there himself, noted that the track’s age and weathered asphalt add to its unique challenge.
“It’s been since 2019 since we’ve had the championship race at Homestead. We moved it out to Phoenix for the past several years, which has been great for us. It’s been an amazing market. We’ve seen some great racing there, and we’ve crowned some of our biggest champions, but we’re excited to go to Homestead-Miami Speedway. I can tell you from a few people that I’ve talked to so far across the industry, through our partners, they’re over the moon about it. And from our fans, it’s the No. 1 asked-about championship venue as well. So we’re excited to finally get the news out there.” – Ben Kennedy
Drivers can run low, middle, or high lines — making strategy and skill more important than ever in a championship setting. This multi-groove action is why Homestead has earned its reputation as a “racer’s racetrack.”
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Reactions from the NASCAR Community
Homestead-Miami Speedway President Guillermo Santa Cruz, who took over the role in 2023, has seen excitement grow across the industry. Drivers, crew chiefs, and fans alike have praised the track for its thrilling competition. Santa Cruz says it’s not just about history or location; it’s the high-quality racing that truly makes Homestead stand out.
“The kind of racing that this track puts on, we talk about it all the time.” – Guillermo Santa Cruz
He also noted that while factors like weather and logistics play a role in selecting a championship host, the on-track product was the biggest reason Homestead earned the 2026 finale.
“You know, certainly there are many factors in determining where the championship goes — location, weather, all that goes into that. But certainly, the kind of racing that we put on, the kind of racing that takes place here is unique, and it’s top-level.” – Guillermo Santa Cruz
What’s Next for Phoenix and Homestead
While Phoenix Raceway will no longer host the final race in 2026, it’s far from being left behind. It will remain part of the NASCAR Playoffs, with its fall race positioned in the Round of 8.
“Every time I’ve gone to Phoenix over the past few years that we’ve had our championship race there, Julie and then Latasha have built such strong relationships with the city and a lot of local community leaders to have this race transcend the Phoenix market in a different way.” – Ben Kennedy
The Arizona track’s strong community ties and modern facilities, upgraded with a $178 million renovation, will keep it in the rotation for future championship weekends. Meanwhile, Homestead is also due for its own improvements. Santa Cruz mentioned updates to hospitality areas, fan amenities, and even a new coat of paint as part of their plan to shine on the national stage in 2026.
News in Brief: Homestead-Miami Speedway Championship Weekend 2026
Homestead-Miami Speedway is set to reclaim its place as the home of NASCAR’s biggest weekend in 2026. With decades of championship history, a reputation for exciting multi-groove racing, and strong support from fans and industry leaders, the South Florida track is more than ready for its return to center stage. While Phoenix Raceway will continue to play a key role in the playoffs, NASCAR’s decision to rotate championship venues opens the door to fresh experiences for years to come.
The NASCAR Championship Weekend returns to Homestead-Miami Speedway, November 6-8, 2026.
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