Joey Logano headlines NASCAR Coronado race as the sport announces an unprecedented event at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, bringing top series racing onto a military base for the first time. The bold move, unveiled for June 19–21, 2026, merges motorsports with military heritage, promising a spectacular new chapter for fans and drivers alike.
NASCAR Brings Racing Innovation to a Historic Military Site
NASCAR’s official announcement signaled a return to Southern California with a twist, as Naval Base Coronado prepares to host a unique street circuit built entirely within its active military grounds. The 2026 event weekend will showcase the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series, and marks the first instance of such racing at an operational military location.
The excitement surrounding the event surged with the release of “Project: Race the Base,” a promotional video starring leading drivers including Chase Elliott, Joey Logano, William Byron, Noah Gragson, Carson Hocevar, and Chase Briscoe. The campaign captured the imagination of fans, many of whom praised its creativity and production values.
The trailer, filmed on-site where the iconic ‘Top Gun’ was shot, entwines military culture with high-speed racing energy. Participants in the video undertake tasks such as piloting jets and challenging military security, blending entertainment with respect for the armed forces. The initiative sparked an overwhelmingly positive public response, with viewers describing it as one of NASCAR’s boldest marketing efforts to date.
One fan captured the widespread reaction, saying:
“This is badass.” —Many
Drivers themselves joined the online buzz. Carson Hocevar and Chase Elliott shared in the enthusiasm, as fans from San Diego and beyond began preparing for what promises to be a memorable race weekend.
With the Cup Series wrapping up its international forays into Mexico City and Chicago, the Coronado event is set to occupy a critical spot on NASCAR’s calendar, likely establishing itself as a premier annual race.
Expanding NASCAR’s Vision Beyond Tradition
NASCAR’s decision to stage this event at Coronado is part of a broader strategy to reshape American stock car racing for a new era. Recent ventures into unconventional venues such as the Los Angeles Coliseum (2022–2024), downtown Chicago (2023), and Mexico City (2025) demonstrate a commitment to innovation and growth beyond traditional oval tracks.
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s Executive Vice President of Racing Innovation, emphasized the significance of the occasion:
“What a special way to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Navy, 250th anniversary of our country and put on what is going to be undoubtedly the most anticipated event of 2026. And I’m bullish on it being the best sporting event of the year… you couldn’t ask for a better location than Coronado, sitting between downtown San Diego, the Pacific Ocean and not far from Tijuana, either.”
—Ben Kennedy, NASCAR EVP of Racing Innovation
Naval Base Coronado, known for housing eight essential military facilities, including NAS North Island, provides a backdrop unmatched in NASCAR history. Organizers plan for the course to wind past active aircraft carriers and stretch across flight tarmacs, creating a track unlike any other on the racing calendar.
Course design is already underway, with iRacing simulations testing a mix of fixed roads and customizable sections across the expansive tarmac. Unlike congested city centers, the open expanse of the base allows for greater creativity and spectacle. Navy Secretary John C. Phelan expressed pride in hosting the event:
“NASCAR embodies the very best of the American spirit through speed, precision and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Hosting a race aboard Naval Air Station North Island, the birthplace of naval aviation, it’s not just a historic first, it’s a powerful tribute to the values we share: grit, teamwork and love of country.”
—John C. Phelan, Navy Secretary
This partnership aligns with celebrations for both the U.S. Navy’s and the nation’s 250th anniversaries, offering a powerful tribute to shared values.
San Diego Prepares for a Citywide Racing Festival
NASCAR has appointed Amy Lupo, a former ESPN executive with experience leading the LA Clash, as president of the NASCAR San Diego team. Efforts are underway in collaboration with Sports San Diego to create not only a landmark race, but a community-wide celebration involving local businesses and fans.
As anticipation grows, the 2026 Coronado street race stands to set a new benchmark for innovation in motorsports, positioning NASCAR at the intersection of American culture, military tradition, and competitive racing. The event is expected to draw nationwide attention, bolster local tourism, and inspire future collaborations between the motorsports world and iconic American venues.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Joey Logano have cerebral palsy?
A. Due to complications during his birth, Joey experienced bleeding in his brain, resulting in a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis. Consequently, Joey requires regular physical therapy sessions.
Q. What medical condition does Joey Logano have?
A. When his hair didn’t return, Logano visited the doctor’s office and was diagnosed. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder mostly affecting people under 30.
Q. What illness does Joey Logano have?
A. The cause of the problem was a stomach virus. Logano managed to push through and finish the race despite feeling unwell. “I had the Norovirus and thought I felt better,” Logano shared with reporters, according to Steven Taranto from CBS Sports. However, right before the race, he realized he wasn’t okay.
