The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule brings new excitement as defending champion Kyle Larson and Hendrick Motorsports aim to replicate their recent successes, with the season set to start on February 1 at Bowman Gray Stadium. Fans and teams are preparing for significant highlights and venue returns, promising an engaging year for all followers of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule.
Defending Champions and Notable Recent Performances
Kyle Larson, who clinched his second career championship title at Phoenix Raceway in November with the No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet team, returns as the reigning champion of the Cup Series. Last season established momentum for Hendrick Motorsports, reinforced by Chase Elliott’s victory in the preseason Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. This exhibition opens the upcoming season once again, building expectations for a strong start for the organization.
William Byron added to the team’s achievements, securing his second consecutive win at the DAYTONA 500. The much-anticipated 2026 edition of the Great American Race will begin at 2:30 p.m. on February 15, marking it as an early fixture for fans and competitors alike. The efforts of Alex Bowman, who previously tasted success at Chicagoland Speedway, further highlight the depth and competitiveness of the Hendrick Motorsports lineup moving into the new campaign.
Major Changes and Venue Returns for 2026
This year’s schedule introduces several notable changes sure to shape the championship narrative. Most notably, the Cup Series marks its first return to Chicagoland Speedway since 2019—a 1.5-mile, D-shaped oval where Alex Bowman claimed victory the last time the circuit visited this venue. Additionally, North Wilkesboro plays host to a points-paying Cup event for the first time since 1996. The legendary track last saw wins from Jeff Gordon and Terry Labonte, with Labonte going on to secure his second career championship that season.
The Fourth of July weekend stands out with all three NASCAR national series competing at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, bringing top-level racing action to a unique location. The Cup Series race is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, promising an exciting celebration for motorsport fans.
Championship Race and TV Coverage
The championship finale for the Cup Series returns to Homestead-Miami Speedway for the first time since 2019, concluding what is expected to be a closely contested campaign. Broadcasting for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule is divided among Fox, FS1, Prime, TNT, NBC, and USA Network, ensuring wide-reaching coverage for every race throughout the season.
Complete 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Schedule
As anticipation builds, fans can look forward to a full season of racing action, historic venue returns, and intense battles as top organizations like Hendrick Motorsports seek to build on their legacies. The blend of established race tracks and new challenges promises memorable moments for drivers such as Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, William Byron, Alex Bowman, and more. With the field set and broadcast partners in place, the 2026 season is poised for an electrifying series of events leading up to the championship showdown at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
