The ongoing swirl of Dale Earnhardt Jr NASCAR schedule rumors has injected new energy into the sport’s off-season, as speculation grows over potential races in both Chicago and San Diego for future seasons. As fans and teams await official decisions, Earnhardt Jr’s recent comments and the shifting dynamics of NASCAR’s calendar have fueled debate and anticipation about what lies ahead in 2026 and beyond.
NASCAR’s Season of Change Fuels Speculation
With summer underway, NASCAR’s so-called “Silly Season” is already living up to its reputation, as driver changes begin to emerge and conversations about possible track additions dominate paddock discussions. Daniel Suarez’s recent moves signaled the start of these shake-ups, but it is the venues themselves that now seem primed to make the biggest headlines. The 2025 season has offered several surprises, from a dramatic Clash event at Bowman Gray to the series’ international foray into Mexico City, all signaling NASCAR’s willingness to experiment with its schedule across North America.
The latest spark comes from Dale Earnhardt Jr, a respected voice within the NASCAR community. On a weekend that saw Shane van Gisbergen take both Xfinity and Cup races in Chicago, Earnhardt Jr stoked rumors that the racing calendar for 2026 could see significant changes—including new stops and possible departures. Despite the excitement of fans and industry professionals, questions still linger over how the schedule may evolve.
Chicago’s Economic Windfall Meets Local Frustrations
Chicago’s place in NASCAR’s lineup has brought both financial success and logistical headaches. The city’s inaugural street race in 2023 generated an economic impact of $109 million, which climbed even higher to $128 million the following year. Though financially beneficial, these events have not been without complications. Road closures and disrupted July 4th festivities have prompted concerns among local residents, who have often found themselves negotiating blocked streets and altered routines.
Organizers have faced steep costs as well. In December, during Race Industry Week, NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps stated that it now takes $50 million to host the Chicago event each year. As the three-year agreement between NASCAR and the city nears its end, speculation mounts about whether the partnership will continue. NASCAR officials have a 90-day window following the 2025 race to formally seek renewal, placing heightened pressure on decision-makers to weigh the event’s mixed legacy.
Despite these challenges, Dale Earnhardt Jr remains forward-looking, focusing his attention on possible new opportunities for the series in major urban centers.
Earnhardt Jr Floats the Possibility of New Races
One of the most compelling rumors in recent weeks has been the suggestion that NASCAR could head to San Diego, marking a return to Southern California following the departure from the LA Coliseum. In a recent episode of his popular podcast, The Dale Jr Download, Earnhardt Jr offered a bold forecast for the upcoming schedule changes:
“I think there’s a potential where you could see us racing at Chicago and San Diego. For sure, there’s a world where that exists…I don’t think that they’re adding another road course. I think it’s like, all right, how many we got, 6? …Whatever the number is today, that’ll be the number next year. But I just don’t know which racetracks it’s gonna be.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr, NASCAR Driver and Broadcaster
His remarks quickly energized both fans and analysts, as the community began to imagine how a San Diego event might play out and what it could mean for NASCAR’s national presence. The Xfinity Series’ most recent stop in Chicago, with Shane van Gisbergen battling for position on the street circuit, reflected the kind of urban spectacle that could translate well to other metropolitan venues, provided the economics and community impact are favorable.
While Earnhardt Jr’s predictions are rooted in years of experience and a keen sense for the sport’s direction, official word on where NASCAR will head in 2026 has not yet been released. Other racing circuits, such as IndyCar, are also evaluating which tracks will return, highlighting the shared uncertainty across top-tier American motorsports.
IndyCar Faces its Own Schedule Questions
As NASCAR mulls its next moves, IndyCar too remains in a holding pattern over its 2026 season. Multiple tracks, including Laguna Seca, Portland, and Toronto, may require new negotiations for future races. IndyCar’s recent successes at venues like Iowa Speedway—where robust crowds have been attracted thanks to aggressive marketing and partnerships—show the importance of community engagement and investment. Still, even these popular stops face challenges, such as declining race quality linked to track changes like repaving, which has led to fewer competitive passes.
Anticipation is building around the likely addition of a Mexico event, given NASCAR’s recent positive experiences south of the border. Executives estimate the final race tally for the IndyCar championship will be about 17 events, dependent on how renewal talks progress in coming months.
Doug Boles, President of Indianapolis Motor Speedway and a leader at Penske Entertainment, spoke candidly about the intricate process of building a race schedule:
“In my mind, it needs to be before the end of the season, and the sooner we can get the schedule out, the better for everybody. It’s better for teams. It’s better for partners. It’s better for TV. It’s better for fans. On this side, you’re working with promoters, some of which have other events that they have to work through, as well. You’re working with a TV partner with FOX, because you want to be in the best TV windows to the extent we can continue to be on network versus other (cable) channels. We’re trying to work through that, so it becomes a bit of a puzzle.”
—Doug Boles, President of Indianapolis Motor Speedway
These comments highlight the reality that both NASCAR and IndyCar face—a delicate balancing act between logistics, fan engagement, and the commercial imperatives of network television partners like FOX.
What’s Next for NASCAR and Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Prediction?
As the motorsports world awaits formal announcements, speculation persists regarding whether Dale Earnhardt Jr’s vision of a schedule featuring both Chicago and San Diego will come to fruition. The clock is ticking: NASCAR has a limited window after 2025’s Chicago event to request another contract. Meanwhile, fans and analysts continue to watch for official word from the sport’s leaders, as the stakes for both markets are significant.
While the path ahead is not free from challenges, Earnhardt Jr’s track record and insider status mean his words carry weight within the garage and among supporters. Should his forecast prove accurate, NASCAR could be embarking on an era of renewed urban competition and expanded reach—key elements in its ongoing contest with rival series and its efforts to attract a diverse and growing audience.
The fallout from these decisions will shape the dynamics of American motorsports for years to come. All eyes remain on NASCAR as the league weighs its options, considers the needs of local communities, drivers, and teams, and steers toward a pivotal moment in its storied history.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dale Earnhardt Jr. a billionaire?
A. By 2025, Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s wealth is expected to be around $300 million. This wealth comes from his successful NASCAR driving career and his current role in broadcasting. He continues to stay engaged through endorsements, team ownership, and partnerships, which increase his influence.
Q. Will Dale Earnhardt Jr. race in 2025?
A. On Thursday, it was announced that a new date has been added to his 2025 Late Model schedule. This includes a Sun Drop-sponsored entry with a fresh appearance. Earnhardt, Jr. will drive the No. 8 JR Motorsports car at Tri-County Speedway in October. The zMAX CARS Tour will race at this Granite Falls, North Carolina location on October 4.
Q. Who is the richest guy in NASCAR? Dale Earnhardt Jr. is the richest guy in NASCAR with an estimated net worth of $300 million.
A. Who has earned the most money in NASCAR?
Q. Does Dale Earnhardt Jr. own a jet?
A. Regarding Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s private jet, he currently pilots a Cessna Citation XLS+. This jet is from the Citation Excel aircraft series.
