NASCAR weekends at Phoenix Raceway 2026 will see the celebrated Arizona track host two major racing events next year, returning with their popular early- and late-season formats. Fans can expect key races in March and October, bringing together stars and rising talent for pivotal rounds in the NASCAR season.
Spring Racing Returns in March
The first major NASCAR weekend of 2026 at Phoenix Raceway is scheduled for March 7 and 8. The event starts on Saturday with the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, where young drivers get the chance to prove themselves early in the season. Sunday sets the stage for the NASCAR Cup Series, as top competitors vie for victory in the Shriners Children’s 500. This crucial race offers drivers an opportunity to secure a spot in the Cup Series Playoffs, making it a must-watch for fans who follow the chase for the championship.
October Weekend Highlights Playoff Drama
NASCAR will make its way back to Phoenix Raceway later in the year for another exceptional weekend, taking place October 16 through 18. This visit features all three of NASCAR’s top national series, kicking off with the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series on Friday, October 16. The excitement continues Saturday with the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, followed by the anticipated NASCAR Cup Series Round of 8 on Sunday. As the penultimate round in the Playoffs for each division, these races carry enormous stakes for drivers and teams alike, with hopes of advancing toward season championships.
Track President Expresses Enthusiasm
“We are excited to have two bring two competitive race weekends return to Phoenix Raceway next season,”
—Latasha Causey, Phoenix Raceway President
“We have a world-class facility supported by world-class fans who know that March and October are perfect times of the year to enjoy NASCAR racing in The Valley. This will be another incredible race weekend experience at Phoenix Raceway.”
—Latasha Causey, Phoenix Raceway President
Championship Weekend in High Demand
Interest remains high in this season’s events, as only a limited number of tickets remain for the 2025 NASCAR Championship Weekend, running from October 31 to November 2. The championship action opens on Friday, October 31, with the ARCA Menards Series West championship, the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100, and the Truck Series showdown. Saturday, November 1, highlights the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship, as well as Cup Series practice and qualifying sessions.
The festivities culminate on Sunday, November 2, with the highly anticipated NASCAR Cup Series Championship race, drawing nationwide attention from fans and participants. Spectators interested in joining the excitement are being encouraged to secure tickets through the official Phoenix Raceway website before they are sold out.
What These Race Weekends Mean Moving Forward
The 2026 NASCAR weekends at Phoenix Raceway reestablish the venue as a central stage for the sport’s most competitive and important races, fulfilling fan demand in The Valley while shaping the paths to the playoffs and championships. With recognition from figures such as Latasha Causey and a line-up that includes the stars of the Cup Series, rising talents, and the best of the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, Phoenix Raceway is poised to again deliver unforgettable moments and racing drama in the upcoming season.
