The NASCAR Cup Series qualifying session has confirmed the full starting lineup for the upcoming DuraMAX Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas, marking the first non-oval event of the 2026 season. The NASCAR Cup Series qualifying process at COTA brings drivers together in Austin, Texas, after a season opener featuring superspeedway races at Daytona International Speedway and the newly renamed EchoPark Speedway.
A Switch to the 17-Turn COTA Layout
This year, for the second consecutive season, NASCAR drivers will race on Circuit of the Americas’ 17-turn, 2.4-mile course, which replaced the former 20-turn, 3.41-mile configuration that was previously used from 2021 through 2024. The adjustment to the shorter layout, right in the heart of Texas, offers both new strategic challenges and opportunities for the competing drivers.
How the Qualifying Process Works
Qualifying for road courses like COTA is designed to be direct and efficient. All participating drivers are separated into two groups, according to a qualifying metric that ranks them based on recent performance and prior race results. Those with higher (worse) metric scores are assigned to the first group, while drivers who have performed better are placed in the second group.
Each group receives 20 minutes on track to set their best lap times. After both groups complete their sessions, officials combine the results to finalize the starting grid. This approach is intended to address any advantage that later-running drivers may experience due to changing track conditions, attempting to ensure a level playing field for all competitors.
Broadcast Details and What’s Next
As qualifying finalizes the order for Sunday’s DuraMAX Grand Prix, excitement builds for the main event. Fox will broadcast the race live starting at 3:30 p.m. ET on March 1, with fans able to tune in from anywhere, including through streaming services. Circuit of the Americas in Austin promises dramatic motorsports action as NASCAR shifts away from the familiar ovals of Daytona and EchoPark Speedway to a demanding road course challenge.
The outcome of this NASCAR Cup Series qualifying session sets the stage for a high-stakes race and could influence driver strategies and championship momentum early in the season. As drivers, teams, and fans all turn their attention to Austin, the 2026 season’s first road course event is set to be a highlight for the series.
