As NASCAR prepares for its 2026 Championship Weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway, the long gap since the track last hosted the season finale has left some important work to be done. The 1.5-mile oval will have been out of the spotlight for over 19 months by the time the series returns to crown its champions. To ensure a smooth transition back to the track, officials are already considering testing and practice sessions before the finale. Here’s a closer look at what fans and teams can expect as Homestead makes its highly anticipated return.
Homestead’s Long-Awaited Return
Homestead-Miami Speedway’s return as the site for NASCAR’s Championship Weekend in 2026 is a major milestone. The track has not hosted the season-ending event since 2019, when it saw its last championship battle. With Phoenix Raceway taking over the role of the title host since then, the decision to return to Homestead is being met with excitement from both fans and drivers.
NASCAR’s Managing Director of Racing Communications, Mike Forde, spoke about the potential for a pre-season tire test in preparation for the 2026 finale. This would give teams the chance to get valuable data on the track’s unique characteristics after such a long hiatus. The track’s progressive banking and worn asphalt have made it a favorite among drivers, offering multiple racing lines that can lead to thrilling finishes.
“As far as an organizational test where you have the entire Cup garage come, I’d be a little surprised if we did that.”
“Those organizational tests are so rare these days. But it is a very long layoff. You can almost guarantee an extended practice of at least 50 minutes Friday and maybe going super old school with 50 minutes Saturday morning into qualifying.” – Mike Forde
Given the extended gap, there’s a high likelihood that teams will have the opportunity for an extended practice session during the weekend, potentially including a 50-minute session on Friday and possibly a Saturday morning practice session before qualifying. Forde noted that while a full organizational test for all Cup teams is unlikely, an extended practice period is a strong possibility. This will allow teams to get a feel for the track’s surface and adjust their setups before the championship battle unfolds.
Discussions and Adjustments: Drivers’ Feedback and Future Races
In addition to the planned test sessions, NASCAR officials are set to meet with drivers at Kansas Speedway to discuss several key topics. This includes feedback on new race formats, upcoming events like the inaugural Cup race in Mexico City, and potential rule changes. One significant area of focus is the safety of superspeedway racing, with modifications to the rules package designed to reduce liftoff speeds.
It is also expected that NASCAR will seek input on the balance between horsepower levels and car performance for upcoming races. As the sport evolves, the drivers’ voices remain crucial in shaping the future of NASCAR racing, especially as they prepare for the challenges posed by new and returning venues like Homestead.
With Homestead being the site of multiple historic moments in NASCAR, including championships won by drivers like Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, and Kyle Busch, the track has a deep legacy. The return of the championship to this track is seen as a way to reconnect with the sport’s history while paving the way for future innovations
A New Chapter for Homestead and the NASCAR Championship Rotation
While Phoenix Raceway will continue to host two Cup Series events in 2026, the return of Homestead to the Championship Weekend rotation signals a shift. The decision to bring back the track for the season finale reflects the sport’s efforts to keep the championship race fresh and engaging for fans while respecting the deep roots the track holds in NASCAR’s history.
The announcement of the championship weekend’s return to Homestead also marks the beginning of a new approach to the championship rotation. By adding Homestead to the mix, NASCAR aims to keep the finale exciting, rotating between different venues that bring unique challenges and experiences to both drivers and fans.
In anticipation of the 2026 event, Homestead-Miami Speedway will undergo significant upgrades. These include improvements to fan amenities, such as hospitality suites and upgraded seating areas. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint and a few cosmetic improvements are planned to make the track shine for its return. Track president Guillermo Santa Cruz expressed excitement about the upcoming work and the prospect of making Homestead the perfect stage for NASCAR’s crowning event.
News in Brief: Homestead 2026 NASCAR Championship
The return of Homestead-Miami Speedway as the host of NASCAR’s Championship Weekend in 2026 is more than just a nostalgic nod to the past. It’s a forward-looking decision that promises fresh opportunities for the sport. The venue’s reputation for close, competitive racing and its iconic status in NASCAR history make it an ideal location for the season finale.
As teams and officials prepare for the big event, the pre-race testing sessions and discussions about the future of NASCAR will ensure that the championship weekend in South Florida will be one to remember. With a blend of history and innovation, Homestead is poised to offer fans and drivers a thrilling new chapter in the sport’s rich legacy.
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