he Pacific Northwest will be absent from the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2026 after officials confirmed Portland International Raceway’s removal from the calendar. The decision ends a four-year stretch for the road course, which had hosted the Pacific Office Automation 147 since 2022. Portland was valued for its unique challenges and scenic location, but the call highlights deeper issues about track infrastructure and long-term investment. Now, the absence leaves both fans and teams questioning the direction of NASCAR’s market strategy.
Key Highlights
Portland International Raceway dropped from the 2026 Xfinity Series schedule
Facility concerns included lack of connectivity and modern amenities
BRK Racing’s Randy Knighton cited the track’s “dire need of upgrades”
Fans split over whether NASCAR should have paid for improvements
Portland exit leaves Pacific Northwest without a NASCAR presence in 2026
Why Portland Was Dropped
NASCAR officials explained that Portland International Raceway’s removal stemmed from persistent infrastructure challenges. BRK Racing team owner Randy Knighton pointed to critical limitations on pit road, noting the lack of reliable power and internet connectivity. Teams relied on portable internet solutions and generators to manage telemetry and race communication, which proved unsustainable for long-term competition. While some fans argued that similar obstacles exist at other venues, the contrast between Portland and better-equipped tracks influenced the decision. NASCAR executives stressed that maintaining competitive balance requires facilities to meet baseline operational standards.
“According to BRK Racing team owner… grain of salt taken. Not all tracks have permanent hookups on them, even on the Cup side. Indy and Chicago/San Diego for example have temp cabling ran.” – Fan reaction
The absence of upgrades left Portland vulnerable as NASCAR evaluated its evolving schedule, particularly with pressure to balance market reach and logistical demands. Although the venue’s racing product was well-regarded, operational deficiencies ultimately outweighed its competitive merits.
The Debate Over Investment
Portland’s exit sparked wide-ranging fan debate about who should bear responsibility for improvements. Some pointed to the high costs teams endure when racing at facilities lacking essential infrastructure. Others insisted NASCAR itself should step in if it truly values a market.
“I’m at a loss for who should be paying for it. If NASCAR wants the market, they’ll pay for the upgrades. If they want to be a regional sport, they can do that too.” – Fan reaction
The topic of attendance also surfaced. Reports suggested that Portland struggled to draw crowds comparable to other road course events, weakening the argument for continued investment.
“As much as I want them back, to be fair the attendance was really disappointing. I was there and enjoyed it, but it’s kinda a hastily thrown together operation compared to other tracks.” – Fan reaction
Still, many questioned why NASCAR could stage races without issue in previous years or why IndyCar continues to compete at the same venue.
“While I get that PIR needs upgrades, idk how you can say these things are essential when you made 4 races work perfectly fine without them – and Indycar makes it work just fine without them.” – Fan reaction
Impact on the Pacific Northwest
The decision leaves the Pacific Northwest without a NASCAR national series event in 2026. For fans in the region, Portland had provided a rare chance to see top-level stock car racing up close. Losing that outlet creates a noticeable gap in NASCAR’s geographic presence and raises concerns about the sport’s commitment to expanding westward. Some fans suggested alternatives such as Laguna Seca, but no replacement has been announced.
“NASCAR wanted out. They wanna stay in the south. If they wanted to stay in the market they’d been off to Laguna Seca or similar.” – Fan reaction
NASCAR’s Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy emphasized the organization’s interest in returning to the Pacific Northwest eventually, but the timeline remains uncertain. For now, NASCAR is reshaping its schedule elsewhere, including new road courses and the Cup Series’ return to Chicagoland Speedway.
News in Brief: Fans React as Facility Issues Lead to Track Being Dropped for 2026
Portland International Raceway will be absent from the 2026 NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule after officials cited major facility and infrastructure shortcomings. BRK Racing’s Randy Knighton described the venue as in “dire need of upgrades,” highlighting issues such as lack of pit road connectivity and power. Fans expressed frustration, debating whether NASCAR or the track should bear responsibility, while others noted disappointing attendance. The decision leaves the Pacific Northwest without a NASCAR event in 2026. Support the sport’s growth and future by attending upcoming races across the country and staying connected to NASCAR.
ALSO READ: Portland Showdown: Who Conquers the Pacific Office Automation 147?
