William Byron's No. 24 car brings NASCAR excitement to San Diego.
NASCAR Cup driver William Byron, who currently sits second in the points standings, is expressing strong anticipation for the upcoming temporary street course race on Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. The William Byron San Diego NASCAR excitement stems from his positive experiences promoting the race and the unique opportunities that the Southern California location offers to fans and competitors alike.
What Sets the San Diego Race Apart from Chicago’s Street Events
While Chicago’s street course ran alongside Lake Michigan and its nearby beaches, San Diego offers a wider range of advantages that have piqued Byron’s interest. The city boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, a stark contrast to Chicago where rain affected both prior street races. San Diego also represents a new market for NASCAR, marking the sport’s return to Southern California for the first time since 2022. Located just a few miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, its proximity is expected to attract a robust crowd, especially fans eager to support Daniel Suarez—should he secure a new team for the 2026 season. Of course, San Diego’s well-known beaches add to the event’s allure.
Byron shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming event during a media session at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, reflecting on his recent experience making a promotional video at the San Diego navy base. He said,
Image of: William Byron
“I was actually really excited about the race when I left (after filming the promo video at the navy base),”
—William Byron, NASCAR Cup Driver.
He further described his optimism for the race, stating,
“If (the event) pans out the way it looks, it’s going to be amazing.”
—William Byron, NASCAR Cup Driver.
Byron’s Perspective on Chicago and His Own Track Record
Despite his enthusiasm for San Diego, Byron clarified that he has no animosity toward Chicago. However, his most recent outing in Chicago saw him qualifying last and crashing on the first lap, resulting in a last-place finish—quite a contrast from his earlier finishes of 8th and 13th in previous years on the same course. Comparatively, Byron says the San Diego event brings a different level of excitement for him, in part due to the refreshing atmosphere and the sense of genuine engagement from local communities.
Byron elaborated on the difference in anticipation between the two cities, saying,
“I’m definitely more excited about (San Diego) than I was Chicago,”
—William Byron, NASCAR Cup Driver. He pointed out that although Chicago puts on a great event, there seemed to be some disconnect with certain groups in the city.
Looking ahead, Byron praised the enthusiasm he senses in San Diego:
“And I feel like San Diego, everyone there is going to be bought into it, and it’s going to be just an exciting summer event. So, I’m pretty pumped for it.”
—William Byron, NASCAR Cup Driver.
Differences in Local Support: San Diego Versus Chicago
Local reception to street races has been a point of distinction. In Chicago, residents demonstrated mixed feelings, as the event led to major street closures—such as the complete shutdown of southbound lanes on Lake Shore Drive—alongside concerns about public safety. The city experienced a tragic incident just days before the race, when a drive-by shooting at a club, not far from the course, resulted in multiple casualties and injuries. This environment contributed to an atmosphere filled with conflicting opinions and skepticism about the event’s value to the community.
Byron reflected on this contrast, stating,
“It seemed like around the Chicago event, you always heard like positive and negative reviews and a lot of skepticism,”
—William Byron, NASCAR Cup Driver. However, he observed a very different response in San Diego, noting wider community enthusiasm.
He added,
“It seems like a lot of positivity and excitement, people are appreciative, and that’s what makes me excited. It’s like everyone’s going to look forward to that event on the schedule, and that’s just going to make it fun.”
—William Byron, NASCAR Cup Driver.
What Could This Mean For NASCAR and Its Fans?
The impending San Diego NASCAR street race not only broadens the sport’s footprint to an eager new audience but also reignites the series’ presence in Southern California. With the promise of better weather, scenic beaches, and anticipated local support, fans may see a defining moment for NASCAR’s continued evolution. Enthusiasts in both the U.S. and Mexico could flock to the Naval Base Coronado for a unique summer spectacle. William Byron’s enthusiasm signals growing excitement within the sport, setting expectations high for both the racing community and the San Diego region. How well the event is received will likely shape the future of NASCAR’s street course ventures in new markets.
