San Diego is set to make motorsport history as it welcomes the San Diego NASCAR Cup Series race 2026, a momentous event scheduled for June 19-21, 2026, at Naval Base Coronado. This special race weekend, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy, will feature the NASCAR Cup Series, alongside the Xfinity Series and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, culminating in the first-ever NASCAR event held on an active military base.
Three-Day Racing Extravaganza Celebrates Navy Legacy
The highly anticipated NASCAR San Diego Cup Series race will headline a three-day festival of speed and patriotism. Action begins on Friday, June 19, 2026, with the Xfinity Series, followed by the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series on Saturday, and concludes with the landmark Cup Series street race on Sunday, June 21. The event will be broadcast nationally, with the Cup Series airing on Prime Video, Xfinity Series on The CW, and the Truck Series on FOX Sports.
Naval Base Coronado, often called the “West Coast Quarterdeck,” brings together nine Navy installations that extend from San Clemente Island, off Long Beach, California, to the Mountain Warfare Training Facility near San Diego. The base plays a vital role in supporting America’s warfighters and offering resources for Navy personnel and their families.
NASCAR and Navy Emphasize Shared Values and Historic Firsts
Ben Kennedy, Executive Vice President and Chief Venue & Racing Innovation Officer for NASCAR, expressed pride in the event and its unique setting.
“As part of our nation’s 250th anniversary, we are honored for NASCAR to join the celebration as we host our first street race at a military base, Naval Base Coronado,”
said Ben Kennedy, EVP, Chief Venue & Racing Innovation Officer.
“NASCAR San Diego Weekend will honor the Navy’s history and the men and women who serve as we take the best motorsports in the world to the streets of Naval Base Coronado.”
Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan emphasized the deeper meaning behind the collaboration:
“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,”
said Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan.
“From the flight deck to the finish line, this collaboration reflects the operational intensity and unity of purpose that define both the United States Navy and NASCAR. We’re proud to open our gates to the American people, honor those who wear the uniform, and inspire the next generation to step forward and serve something greater than themselves.”
Captain Loren Jacobi, Commanding Officer of Naval Base Coronado, also highlighted the honor of hosting the event and its ties to national pride.
“As Commanding Officer of Naval Base Coronado and on behalf of the United States Navy, it’s an honor to partner with NASCAR at NAS North Island as part of our 250th anniversary celebration,”
said Captain Loren Jacobi.
“Hosting one of America’s premier motorsports events on this historic base reflects our partnership with the local community and our shared pride in the nation’s heritage. We are privileged to showcase the dedication of our Sailors alongside NASCAR’s finest as we celebrate our 250th anniversary.”
Details Behind the Race and Navy-Themed Branding
The San Diego NASCAR Cup Series race 2026 will take place on a yet-to-be-revealed street course through Naval Base Coronado. The official course layout will be announced soon, adding to the anticipation around this historic occasion. Organizers aim to showcase Navy traditions and honor service members, with the entire NASCAR National Series—Cup, Xfinity, and Truck—participating throughout the weekend.
A distinctive event logo has been created for the race, featuring an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, a fighter jet exclusive to the U.S. Navy, and three stars symbolizing the Navy’s presence across land, sea, and air. The arch in the design pays homage to San Diego’s mission-style architecture, while stripes at the base of the logo represent the major service branches: Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy.
Amy Lupo Named as NASCAR San Diego President
NASCAR has appointed Amy Lupo as President for the San Diego event. Lupo boasts more than 25 years of experience orchestrating major sporting events and enhancing fan interactions. Since joining NASCAR in 2021, she has been crucial in launching innovative events like the Clash at the Coliseum in Los Angeles. Prior to NASCAR, Lupo built her reputation during two decades at ESPN, guiding the growth and global reach of the X Games, including major competitions in Tignes, Munich, and Sydney, and working in fourteen countries. Lupo’s strong personal ties to San Diego, where she started her career and continues to reside in Southern California, make her an ideal leader for the 2026 event.
Community and Economic Impact Anticipated for San Diego
Mark Neville, CEO of Sports San Diego, underlined the broader significance for the region.
“This a huge win for San Diego and we are so grateful to NASCAR for their partnership,”
said Mark Neville, CEO, Sports San Diego.
“Without a doubt, the NASCAR San Diego Weekend will have a significant and favorable impact on San Diego’s tourism and hospitality industry. On top of that, being the first ever NASCAR race on an active military base is going to be quite the spectacle and you can’t beat Naval Base Coronado.”
Sports San Diego is named as an operational and promotional partner for the upcoming weekend. The nonprofit focuses on attracting and supporting world-class sporting events to benefit the wider San Diego area. By joining past highlights like the Super Bowl, X Games, MLB All-Star Game, and U.S. Open, the NASCAR San Diego street race is set to become part of the city’s storied sports tradition.
How Fans Can Get Involved and What to Expect Next
As excitement builds for the San Diego NASCAR Cup Series race 2026, fans are encouraged to secure their places early. Tickets for the event will be available for purchase starting this fall, with deposits ensuring advance pricing and early access. Those keen to stay updated can follow @NASCARSanDiego across social media platforms for real-time news and announcements. Additional details about the race course and weekend festivities will be unveiled in the coming months, with the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR race schedules to follow.
The upcoming celebration promises not only thrilling racing but also a salute to American service and unity. By fusing motorsports and naval heritage on one of the country’s most significant military bases, this event is poised to leave a lasting impression on San Diego, the NASCAR community, and the nation at large.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is the most popular driver in the Cup Series?
A. The series consists of eight episodes, each lasting 30 minutes. On January 17, 2025, it was announced that the show was canceled after just one season.
