NASCAR Pole Position | Turn 1 2026

HIGH PERFORMANCE

ON THE

RACE

TRACK, AND IN YOUR HOME

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SCHEDULE

NASCAR Cup Series

Sun., Feb 1 Cook Out Clash//Bowman Gray Stadium 8:00pm FOX

Thu., Feb 12 Daytona 500 Duels//Daytona International Speedway 7:00pm FS1

Sun., Feb 15 Daytona 500//Daytona International Speedway 2:30pm FOX

Sun., Feb 22 Ambetter Health 400//EchoPark Speedway 3:00pm FOX

Sun., Mar 1 Echopark Texas Grand Prix//Circuit of the Americas 3:30pm FOX

Sun., Mar 8 Straight Talk Wireless 500//Phoenix Raceway 3:30pm FS1

Sun., Mar 15 Pennzoil 400//Las Vegas Motor Speedway 4:00pm FS1

Sun., Mar 22 Goodyear 400//Darlington Raceway 3:00pm FS1

Sun., Mar 29 Cook Out 400//Martinsville Speedway 3:30pm FS1 OFF WEEK

Sun., Apr 12 Food City 500//Bristol Motor Speedway 3:00pm FS1

Sun., Apr 19 AdventHealth 400//Kansas Speedway 2:00pm FOX

Sun., April 26 Jack Link’s 500//Talladega Superspeedway 3:00pm FOX

Sun., May 3 Würth 400//Texas Motor Speedway 3:30pm FS1

Sun., May 10 Go Bowling at the Glen//Watkins Glen International 3:00pm FS1

Sun., May 17 All-Star Open//Dover Motor Speedway FS1

Sun., May 17 All-Star Race//Dover Motor Speedway 3:00pm FS1

Sun., May 24 Coca-Cola 600//Charlotte Motor Speedway 6:00pm Amazon

Sun., May 31 Cracker Barrel 400//Nashville Superspeedway 7:00pm Amazon

Sun., Jun 7 FireKeepers Casino 400//Michigan International Speedway 3:00pm Amazon

Sun., Jun 14 Great American Getaway 400//Pocono Raceway 3:00pm

Sun., Jun 21 Anduril 250 Race the Base//Naval Base Coronado 4:00pm

Sun., Jun 28 Toyota / Save Mart 350//Sonoma Raceway 3:30pm

Sun., Jul 5 400//Chicagoland Speedway 6:00pm TNT Sun., Jul 12 Quaker State 400//EchoPark Speedway 7:00pm TNT Sun., Jul 19 Window World 450//North Wilkesboro Speedway 7:00pm TNT Sun., Jul 26 Brickyard 400//Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2:00pm

OFF WEEK Sun., Aug 9 Iowa Corn 350//Iowa Speedway

Aug 15 Cook Out 400//Richmond Raceway

Aug 23 USA Today 301//New Hampshire Motor Speedway

Aug 29 Coke Zero Sugar 400//Daytona

NASCAR POLE POSITION

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Brennan Brennan

ROOKIE QUESTIONS (10 POINTS EACH)

Which full-time NASCAR Cup Series driver from the 2025 season was the only full-time driver to find a new Cup Series ride for 2026?

a. Daniel Suarez

b. Justin Haley

c. Cody Ware

d. Josh Berry

Which track is the designated finale for the new “In-Season Tournament” that awards a $1 million prize to the winner?

a. Talladega Superspeedway

b. Nashville Superspeedway

c. Indianapolis Motor Speedway

d. Pocono Raceway

Which manufacturer has the most entries on the full-time Cup Series grid?

a. Ford

b. Toyota

c. Chevrolet

d. Dodge

Which driver took over the #19 Bass Pro Shops Toyota following Martin Truex Jr.’s 2024 retirement tour?

a. Chandler Smith

b. Corey Heim

c. Chase Briscoe

d. Erik Jones This

Rookie (4 Questions):

Advanced (4 Questions):

Expert (2 Questions):

ADVANCED QUESTIONS (15 POINTS EACH)

Who is currently the youngest full-time driver in the Cup Series as the 2026 season begins?

a. Connor Zilisch

b. Ty Gibbs

c. Carson Hocevar

Josh Berry

What track is the NASCAR Cup Series sharing with the NTT IndyCar Series for a doubleheader race weekend in early 2026?

a. Phoenix Raceway

b. Indianapolis Motor Speedway

c. Laguna Seca

d. Daytona International Speedway

In 2026, NASCAR continues to use the “Next Gen” car. What is the official designation for this chassis generation?

a. Gen 6

b. Gen 7

c. Gen 8

d. Evo Gen

Which crew chief who worked with Jimmie Johnson is now serving in a highlevel executive role for Hendrick Motorsports?

a. Ray Evernham

b. Chad Knaus

c. Todd Gordon

d. Paul Wolfe

EXPERT QUESTIONS (20

Which of the active NASCAR Cup Series Champions has won the Daytona 500?

a. Joey Logano

b. Kyle Busch

c. Chase Elliott

d. Kyle Larson

POINTS EACH)

Which track, a former staple of the NASCAR schedule, is making an unlikely return ahead of the 2026 season?

a. North Wilkesboro Speedway

b. Chicagoland Speedway

c. Kentucky Motor Speedway

d. Rockingham Speedway

LEARNING THE ROPES

Lavar Scott’s First Season in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series stands as one of the final proving grounds for young drivers hoping to earn a place in the NASCAR Cup Series. While it may appear to be just another rung on the development ladder, the NOAP Series gives emerging talents like New Jersey’s Lavar Scott a meaningful platform to demonstrate they can compete not only with seasoned veterans but also with some of the strongest drivers from NASCAR’s three national series.

This year, Scott makes the jump to the NOAP Series with Alpha Prime Racing after three successful seasons in the ARCA Menards Series with REV Racing, where he recorded back-toback runner-up finishes in the championship standings.

Alpha Prime Racing is coming off one of its strongest seasons yet, and the Chevroletbacked team now aims to build on that momentum by pairing veteran Brennan Poole with rookie Lavar Scott as they push into the latter half of the 2020s.

What Got You Into Motorsports?

“It’s actually a family sport for my grandfather, mom, aunt, uncle, brothers, and little cousins. We all raced growing up, and my little cousins and my brother still race to this day. For a lot of families, basketball

and football are their sports, right? For us, it was racing cars. So definitely my family got me into it, and that’s how I found my love and support.”

After a Successful 2025 Season, What Are the Vibes at Alpha Prime Racing Like as the New Guy?

“I’m definitely the new guy and trying to learn, but I show up every day really excited and willing to learn, ready to work, and then put it to use. The team really enjoys that and appreciates it because I want to learn. I don’t know anything, really, about this series, so I’m trying to learn as much as I can, and they’re helping so much.”

Who Are Some Veteran Drivers You Will Turn To for Advice This Season?

“I would say, definitely, Noah Gragson has been one that I’ve leaned on a lot. He’s been super helpful with everything, and truly, I don’t want to say dumbing things down for me, but just simplifying things and making it really easy for me to understand. Ross Chastain, and then obviously my teammate, Brennan [Poole].”

Are You Proud To Be One of a Handful of Drivers To Represent New Jersey and the Northeast in the NOAP Series This Year?

“For sure. New Jersey, Philadelphia, I’m right in those areas, so those areas are really what I’m trying to represent. It’s been the Philadelphia area that’s helping me a lot. I have a Philadelphia sponsor, UAC, Urban Affairs Coalition, and I’m trying to get some big ones out of Philadelphia. But I’m definitely proud to represent those areas; it is pretty cool. The last guy is probably a Hall of Famer one day, Martin Truex, right? So it’s pretty cool, and hopefully one day we can connect and I can get a lot of tips from him.”

Show Us Your Collection

For as long as stock cars have been hitting the track, fans have been finding ways to bring a piece of the action home. Collecting is easily one of the most enduring traditions in the sport, and if you look at the various sub-communities within the fandom, diecast collecting still reigns supreme.

Serious collectors are always on the hunt for the rare, the nostalgic, and the unusual. Take Max, for example. Over the last few years, he’s curated a 1:64-scale collection that stands out even in a crowded hobby.

MAX’S LIFE AS A NASCAR FAN STARTED 19 years ago, thanks to his car-loving grandparents. While he’s had an interest in diecasts since 2007, his collection has truly shifted into high gear over the last few seasons.

THE COLLECTION IS EVEN more impressive when you see it organized by year and set. Eagle-eyed fans will likely spot a few rare, old-school customs, hand-crafted pieces made by some of the original pioneers of the diecast community.

EVERY COLLECTOR HAS THAT ONE sentimental piece that started it all. For Max, it’s his 2002 Ken Schrader “Halloween M&M’s” Hot Wheels from his childhood. But he also has some serious “holy grail” items, like a 2007 Paul Menard promo car from his days driving for Dale Earnhardt Inc. with NIBCO sponsorship.

NATURALLY, ONE DRIVER tends to dominate the display, the legendary Greg Biffle. Max’s “Biff” fandom goes back to his childhood, when he actually got to meet the Roush-Fenway star during sponsor events at 3M headquarters.

WHILE 1:64-SCALE CARS ARE a staple for many fans, Max’s massive display sets a bar that most collectors can only dream of. His shelves hold a diverse mix of modern favorites, rare molds, and classic pieces spanning four decades and multiple racing series.

The Over the Wall Gang

Who’s Who in a NASCAR Pit Stop?

Every weekend, while NASCAR fans focus on the driver strapped inside the car, another group of athletes waits just beyond the pit wall.

They don’t wear fire suits for show. They don’t get introduced on the grid. And they don’t have their names painted on the windshield. But when a race is won or lost by tenths of a second, it’s usually because of them.

Welcome to the life of the pit crew.

A NASCAR pit stop isn’t just fast. It’s choreographed chaos. Five crew members launch over the wall the instant their driver hits his marks. In less than 10 seconds, they lift the car, remove four tires, bolt on four new ones, adjust the chassis if needed, fuel the tank, and clear out.

Every role matters. Every motion is rehearsed. And every mistake shows up on the stopwatch.

Here’s a look at who (usually) hops the wall in a NASCAR pit stop.

BY KAUY OSTLIEN

TIRE CHANGERS

THERE ARE TWO TIRE changers, one on each side of the car. Armed with highpowered air guns, they’re responsible for removing and tightening five lug nuts per wheel.

The front changer handles the left-front and left-rear tires. The rear changer works the right side. Each has a rhythm, remove, replace, tighten, confirm. If even one lug nut isn’t secure, it can mean a loose wheel penalty or worse, a dangerous failure on track. Their speed is measured in fractions of a second. The best tire changers can swap both tires on their side in under three seconds.

TIRE CARRIERS

IF THE CHANGERS ARE the surgeons, the carriers are the muscle.

Each carrier is responsible for hauling fresh tires over the wall and positioning them perfectly for the changer. On the right side, the carrier also manages the jack. Timing is everything. A mistimed step or a tire rolled too far can cost valuable tenths.

These crew members often sprint 40 pounds of rubber across pit road traffic while staying clear of neighboring stalls. Controlled aggression is part of the job.

THE JACKMAN

THE JACKMAN MIGHT have the most visually dramatic role in a stop. He launches over the wall, slides the jack under the car’s left side, and lifts it in one fluid motion. Once the left-side tires are changed, he drops the car and races around to the right side to repeat the process. Modern pit stops are so quick that the jackman’s precision can make or break the entire sequence. Lift too early, and the driver overshoots. Lift too late, and the team loses precious time.

THE FUELER

WHILE THE REST OF THE crew flies around the car, the fueler delivers nearly 11 gallons of fuel through a gravity-fed system.

There’s no trigger and no pump, just a heavy fuel can and raw strength. The fueler must connect cleanly, avoid spills, and disengage at exactly the right moment to prevent costly penalties.

It’s one of the most physically demanding roles on pit road.

THE SIXTH MAN

ONLY FIVE CREW members are allowed over the wall during a standard green-flag pit stop. But that doesn’t mean there are only five people responsible for the performance.

The sixth man is often a utility player, a backup specialist, or a crew member who rotates into different roles. In some eras, this was the catch can man. Today, it’s often a support member who stands ready for adjustments and prepares for potential damage repairs or specialty stops.

He may not jump the wall during every stop, but he’s just as much a part of the team’s preparation and success.

Zane Smith

Now in his third season as a full-time NASCAR Cup Series driver, Zane Smith has a world of potential to become of the sport’s elite competitors.

The 26-year-old native of Huntington Beach, California already won a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship in 2022 after finishing as the series’ championship runner-up in back-to-back seasons.

Smith, who now lives on North Carolina’s Lake Norman in the heart of NASCAR country, recently sat down with NASCAR Pole Position to talk about some of his favorite things in life – which include, perhaps most interestingly, a favorite holiday that will probably surprise you.

What’s your favorite movie?

AW, MAN. THAT’S SO HARD FOR ME TO ANSWER, BECAUSE I LOVE so many movies. And I watch a ton of movies. From like a funny movie standpoint, I feel like I’ve gotta go with, probably, “Step Brothers.” From an overall movie standpoint, “The Wolf of Wall Street” is an incredible movie. I have hundreds I could name, but I guess I’ll start with those two. I think Will Ferrell is hilarious, and the story, especially as a real story, in “The Wolf of Wall Street,” I think, is so cool, and there’s just some incredible actors in that.

What’s your favorite food?

I’M A BIG MEXICAN FOOD KIND OF GUY. IF I COULD HAVE ONE meal for the rest of my life, it would probably be carne asada tacos. I love cooking that. And if not that, if it’s Italian, I’m definitely a fan of like a really spicy pasta. But I’m definitely going to go with carne asada tacos.

What’s your favorite racetrack?

MAN, I FEEL LIKE I’VE GOTTA GO WITH KANSAS SPEEDWAY. Homestead’s gotta be getting close to being tied with it. But I just like all the different options we’ve got at Kansas – from being able to run the very bottom, being able to pass in the middle, work the different seams, you can obviously work the fence. Options are nice. And I especially feel like for some reason with Kansas and how the track is aging, it’s probably one of the best aging racetracks.

Who’s your favorite musical artist?

THAT KIND OF FALLS INTO THE MOVIE CATEGORY, WHERE IT’S so hard for me to pick one because I have just so many different favorites. But, man, I love … I’ll go with Jimmy Buffett. I like being on the water, and, man, his songs always will put you in a good mood. Now like an everyday listen? It’s probably tough to not go with Morgan Wallen or something like that. But, man, just an all-time great? I feel like you’ve gotta go with Jimmy Buffett.

What’s your favorite holiday?

PROBABLY FOURTH OF JULY. I LOVE THAT IT’S IN JUST THE thick of summertime. Obviously, celebrating America. We live right by the lake, so you get to hang out and light some fireworks and just enjoy the day. I’ve always loved it. Since I was a little kid, I’ve always celebrated it to the fullest. We used to go get so many fireworks and light them off and have a huge mess in the morning. Now that I’ve gotten older, we get to host our own parties, so, yeah, I feel like I’ve got to go with the Fourth of July. I feel like the other holidays are cool, I guess, but I’m not a fan of the cold, so they don’t do it for me. I just like celebrating America.

INSEASONPRIMER

Opti-Coat Ceramic Coatings

FOR VEHICLES, BOATS, RVS, MOTORCYCLES ... AND RACE CARS

Opti-Coat of Memphis, Tennessee, was the first company to release automotive ceramic coatings in the USA, and they’ve made history once again by introducing ceramic coatings to NASCAR.

Opti-Coat’s blue-and-white logo was featured on the hood of Jeb Burton’s No. 27 Jordan Anderson Racing/Bommarito Autosport Chevrolet Camaro last fall at Homestead-Miami Speedway. In the October 2024 race, the No. 27 car was not just wearing Opti-Coat’s logo on the hood – the car entered the race with Opti-Coat’s Pro Ceramic Coating installed on the vehicle.

As far as we know, it’s the first time a ceramiccoated race car competed in a NASCAR race.

Ceramic coatings create a barrier between your vehicle’s paint and the elements, helping keep your vehicle looking new.

BENEFITS OF CERAMIC COATINGS

• Warrantied Protection from all the elements and sun damage

• Long-Lasting Shine & Gloss

• Ease of Maintenance

• U.V. Protection

• Chemical & Stain Resistance

• Scratch & Swirl Resistance

• Resistance to Dirt & Water Spots

• Water Beading

Ceramic coatings were first developed in the 1970s for military and aerospace applications. In 2007, Opti-Coat introduced the first automotive ceramic coating for sale in the United States. This new type of coating was designed to protect the modern, damage-prone clear coat paint found on today’s vehicles.

Opti-Coat coatings are unique in composition, utilizing Silicon Carbide (SiC) – also known as industrial diamond – because it is much longer lasting and more durable than the more commonly used Silicon Dioxide (SiO2). A single application of an SiC coating has a lifespan of at least 10 years, compared to 1-3 years for SiO2 coatings.

Opti-Coat Ceramic Coatings are not just for cars, trucks and SUVs. Opti-Coat has specialized coatings for boats, RVs, motorcycles and even race cars. Opti-Coat is installed by top Professional Detailers throughout the U.S. and Canada.

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OPTI-COAT PRO3

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A two-layer SiC protective coating, delivering even more gloss and slickness than single-layer coatings while maintaining the same durable chemical structure as Opti-Coat Pro.

• Enhanced Water Beading and Dirt-Release Properties

• 7-Year Warranty

OPTI-COAT PRO

The original professional ceramic coating. A permanent bonding, single-layer Silicon Carbide (SiC) coating offering long-term protection.

• Up to 10 years of durability

• 5-Year Warranty

OPTI-COAT ULTRA SHINE

An SiO2-based ceramic coating offering extreme gloss, shine, and slickness at a lower price point.

• Can fill minor scratches and swirls

• 2-Year Warranty

MOTORCYCLE CERAMIC COATING

OPTI-COAT PRO MOTORCYCLE CERAMIC COATING

Designed specifically for motorcycles, this includes:

• Opti-Coat Pro – Paint protection

• Opti-Guard Leather – Leather & vinyl protection

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• 5-Year Warranty

RV & MARINE CERAMIC COATING

OPTI-COAT RV & MARINE

A protective ceramic coating designed for gelcoat surfaces found on RVs and boats.

• 5-Year Warranty

• Superior resistance to scratching, chemical etching, and UV fading

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ABOUT OPTI-COAT

Opti-Coat has been designing and manufacturing ceramic coatings and auto detailing products in the USA since 2001. When looking for the best ceramic protection, paint protection film or auto detailing products to keep your vehicle, boat, RV, motorcycle or race car clean and protected, turn to Opti-Coat. For more information, visit www.opticoat.com.

Built to Go Fast LEGO City NASCAR Kids Zone Brings the Energy in 2026

If you hear cheering and giggles and it’s not coming from the track, chances are it’s coming from a race car built out of bricks.

The LEGO City NASCAR Kids Zone, situated in the NASCAR Fan Zone, has become a high-energy staple at select NASCAR race weekends in 2026. Bright colors, bold branding, and hands-on stations turn the fan area into a playground for today’s young fans, and it’s nearly impossible to miss.

Kids jump straight into the action, building custom LEGO race cars at interactive walls before sending them down a head-to-head race ramp. It’s part creativity lab, part pit road showdown.

Select driver appearances throughout the season add even more buzz, giving young fans the chance to meet the stars they watch on Sundays. Photos, autographs, and big smiles come standard.

The activation is part of LEGO’s partnership with NASCAR through 2026, built around one clear mission: grow the next generation of race fans. And it works. Families don’t just walk through the space, they stay, build, compete, and come back for more.

Because in this zone, the future of NASCAR isn’t just watching the race. It’s building it.

The LEGO City NASCAR Kids Zone will be set up inside the official NASCAR Fan Zone at the following tracks during the 2026 season:

Check back for added locations throughout the season!

Matrix Apparel Builds a Helpful Reputation in the NASCAR Garage

BY KAUY OSTLIEN

or many NASCAR teams, the process of getting their driver and crew members ready for race day can be just as hard, if not harder, than getting their car ready.

Aside from all the work teams must put into their car, they also have to ensure that their pit crew, driver, and all other team members are ready to go with gear that not only pleases their sponsors, but, most importantly, fits the needs of those in the race shop.

Of course, finding the right supplier is easier said than done, as this box of the race day checklist can and will cost race teams valuable time and money.

That’s where industry members like the team at Matrix Apparel are stepping up to make a difference for race teams, producing high-quality pit shirts, firesuits, and other essentials to teams with a focus on quick turnaround time and com petitive prices.

For around five years now, Matrix has supplied youth sport leagues with jerseys and other needs. However, for owner Nathan Nickell, a long-time NASCAR fan with experience in the motors ports apparel industry, it was only a matter of time until the brand found its way into the world of motorsports.

Initially, the brand got its foot in the door a few years ago by producing race day essentials for race teams, such as trackside apparel, crew shirts, jackets, and t-shirts.

It was through this early work with teams across many of NASCAR’s top series, Nickell realized Matrix could play a larger role in the industry by helping out some of the sport’s underdog organizations.

“Talking with race teams, I realized there was a tremendous need for a vendor who prioritized cost affordability as well as product quality and delivering an exceptional purchasing experience for their customers,” Nickell said.

With this same mindset, Matrix took a bold new step in NASCAR, taking on the challenge of building a firesuit program from the ground up, independently sourcing everything from zippers to thread and textiles, with the goal of building a safe, quality firesuit at a price point that would exceed the expectations of teams.

“We wanted a firesuit that made people go, ‘Oh, that’s a really good price’,” Nickell said. “But we wanted to do it in a way where when they hold the firesuit, the quality is far above what they’re expecting at the price point that they’re paying.”

Pricing of their firesuits is a major focus of the team at Matrix, something that Nickell says appeals to smaller teams as “every dollar they save on a firesuit is a dollar they could put into making their car faster.”

Despite their status as one of the new kids in town, teams are already taking notice of Matrix, with the brand boasting its largest garage area presence during 2026 Daytona speedweeks, supplying gear for a combined 11 entries across several organizations.

Furthermore, with direct control over production and a small staff, Matrix is able to supply teams with personalized attention to precisely fit

This attentiveness can help carry the load for these smaller teams and give them more time to focus on their racecraft, rather than worry about delays and jumping through hoops to get their gear delivered in time for raceday.

As their brand grows and finds its spot in the puzzle that makes up the NASCAR apparel industry, it’s easy to see that teams are taking notice of what Matrix has to offer.

Nonetheless, in the eyes of Nickell, helping teams find a better way to get geared up for raceday has always been the goal for the team at

“There is a better way than what a lot of these race teams are used to, and we’re trying to deliver that,” Nickell said.

A Family Finds Belonging at Camp

For Marissa and Zach White, finding a place where their son Asher feels fully included has always been a priority. The family, from Asheville, NC, first attended a Victory Junction family weekend last year, and it was an experience that left a lasting impression.

“There are not many places in the world that are made for people with disabilities,” Zach shared. “This place is perfect. The thoughtfulness and detail that go into programming… it really blew us away.”

From the beginning, Victory Junction was created to offer campers and families a welcoming environment where accessibility is a priority. In addition, enthusiastic staff work hard to create an inclusive atmosphere where families feel at home.

“The eagerness of the staff makes everybody feel so welcome and wanted,” Marissa said. “It’s amazing for our kids to be around different abilities, where it’s just accepted and normal.”

For Asher, camp has been fun and

transformational. He attended summer camp for the first time last year, and his parents saw an immediate impact.

“The look on his face when I picked him up - I get chills thinking about it,” Zach said. “There was a calm confidence about him. I could tell he had a great time and was a little sad to leave. It really fostered his independence and confidence.”

Marissa echoed the sentiment, and found comfort knowing Asher was surrounded by people who understood him.

“He didn’t have to explain his differences. People just got it. He could be himself without worrying about being self-conscious,” she said.

For families considering Victory Junction, the White family has one piece of advice: give it a try.

“If you’re unsure, start with a family weekend,” Marissa suggested. “Whatever you’re worried about has probably already been considered. Camp here isn’t roughing it… it’s pretty swanky!”

Anyone interested in learning more and referring a family or camper can visit Victory Junction at VictoryJunction.org/Discover.

Victory Junction believes every child deserves to laugh, dream, and explore endless possibilities - but for kids with complex medical and physical needs, these things can sometimes feel out of reach.

Founded by NASCAR legends Richard and Kyle Petty, Victory Junction makes fun free and accessible, and helps kids build confidence and independence.

Kick the Tires by learning what makes camp life-changing. Then, Light the Fires by sending kids to camp - refer a camper or donate today!

more and discover how you can get involved at

DISBELIEF TO

Tyler Reddick’s Daytona 500 Breakthrough

After a final-lap charge through chaos and a year defined by near-misses and personal trials, Reddick captures The Great American Race and secures his place among NASCAR’s elite.

BY STEVEN TARANTO

There is so much that informs the way a driver reacts to winning at Daytona. Especially when it comes to the Daytona 500. Intersecting at the finish line of The Great American Race is not only the Daytona 500’s history, prestige, and standing as the greatest race in NASCAR and one of the greatest races in the entire world, but also all that it took for the winner to get there – Years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to their craft. Months of preparation by the driver and their crew, a full week of buildup in Speedweeks, and 200 laps of intense effort just to put themselves in a position to roll into Victory Lane and claim stock car racing’s biggest and most illustrious prize.

It’s very telling, then, that the initial moments after Tyler Reddick took the checkered flag to win this year’s Daytona 500 were defined by sheer disbelief: Once the hooting and hollering subsided, Reddick spent his cooldown lap trying to confirm with his crew that his remarkable charge on the final lap – narrowly avoiding Carson Hocevar and

Erik Jones sliding across his nose as they triggered a multi-car crash, entering Turn 3 third before getting the drafting help he needed to pull not one, but two slingshot passes to pass Zane Smith and Chase Elliott and make it to first at the checkered flag – had actually amounted to making him a Daytona 500 champion.

“It wasn’t until I was basically back around in front of the speedway on the cooldown lap when someone finally said ‘yes, you won the race,’” Reddick said in the Daytona 500’s afterglow. “Because obviously a number of these races have played out where — I mean, I crossed the start-finish line first, but in the moment, I’m not looking for the flashing yellow lights or the green light on the fence. So I’m just, ‘Did I win? Did I win? Are you sure we won?’

“In the moment, I knew I crossed the start-finish line first, but I don’t know if the yellow light was on before I got to the start-finish line and Chase was ahead of me. I didn’t know any of that stuff. Yeah, everyone wrecked, but again, I didn’t want to get ahead of myself. I didn’t want to think I’d won the

IMMORTALITY

race and then be told a couple seconds later I hadn’t. That would be devastating, especially after last year running second.

“I was just trying to keep myself in check until I knew I’d won.”

Once a voice on his radio finally gave him the good news, there was nothing to hold Reddick back from fully reveling in all that comes with winning. And to win any race would have been enough for Reddick to show his emotions, without inhibition, in triumphant ecstasy: In 2025, Reddick endured not only a winless season, but also a very serious family health crisis when his newborn son Rookie was diagnosed with a chest tumor that led to an enlarged heart. At the time, Reddick winning the pole for the Charlotte Roval while his son was in the hospital and set for kidney surgery had been enough for him to experience intense emotion given all he and his family were going through in the moment.

To meet his family in Victory Lane – including Rookie, now thankfully out of the hospital and just learning to crawl – no doubt added to the significance of winning in Daytona. But Reddick’s loved ones awaited him in the one place that he strived for before he became a family man, a winning Cup Series driver, or

even just someone more than he was as a child in Corning, Calif., watching the Daytona 500 on television every single year.

“I, again, dreamed of one day just having an opportunity to run in this race,” Reddick said. “This is my eighth opportunity to run this race, and it wasn’t the smoothest day, but when it mattered at the end, we did a really good job of being in the mix.

“We had that caution with eight or nine laps to go. It was hitting me, like, the weight of the moment, how — the situation that I am getting ready to be in on this restart is a situation I’ve been dying to have, an opportunity I’ve been dying to have my entire life.”

Over time, the idea of the Daytona 500 went from being the stuff of dreams to an aspiration that Reddick began to work towards: While racing at Volusia, a young Reddick and his family made the trip to Daytona to see The Great American Race for themselves, watching from the old backstretch grandstands as Matt Kenseth won a rain-shortened race. A few years later, the aspiration of merely getting to make laps at Daytona was realized when Reddick took to the speedway for the very first time testing an ARCA car.

“I just remember going out there and thinking this is crazy fast, and it just seems so surreal,” Reddick recalled. “I’ve watched so many races here as a kid growing up and I’m finally on the racetrack. I’m testing by myself, single-car stuff. But nonetheless, I’ve always dreamed of being able to drive off of Turn 4, through the tri-oval and see the stands. Yes, they were empty when I tested here, but just seeing this place, just stuff I dreamed about.

“Never would I know it would lead to me talking about winning a Daytona 500, but certainly as a young kid growing up, I always dreamed that hopefully this would one day be reality.”

Part of what makes winning the Daytona 500 so significant is that the opportunities to do so are so precious and few compared to the grand scheme of a drivers’ career: The best of the best run hundreds of races in a career and win their fair share of them, but most only approach somewhere around 20 Daytona 500 starts, much less of which they will actually be in a position to win.

For 12 months, Reddick had known the pain of having a Daytona 500 win in his sights and not being able to pull it off: One year earlier, he had emerged from last lap chaos second to William

Byron, but without drafting help from behind was unable to summon the speed he needed to get a run on the No. 24 before the finish line.

12 months later, the opportunity presented itself once again –And for a moment, Reddick thought it may have slipped away.

Lining up on the inside of the front row for the final restart with four laps to go, Reddick initially found himself out front with a push from Byron, but allowed himself to get split threewide by Byron and Michael McDowell by the end of the backstretch, shucking him into the middle and forcing him to try and work his way back into the much more difficult position of trying to win the race from behind.

“To kind of screw it up and lose the lead a couple laps in and the top is rolling, taking the white, I was like, ‘damn, that sucks.’ And then, I mean, they wrecked,” Reddick said. “It may have seemed chaotic watching it, but from my seat the whole last lap played out really slow and really smooth, and everything kind of just fell into place how I wanted it to.”

Funnily enough, this isn’t the first time that things have fallen into place for Reddick in Daytona: In 2015, Daytona was the site of Reddick’s very first Craftsman Truck Series win, then in 2018 he won there again in an O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race, beating Elliott Sadler to the finish line in the closest finish ever in any of NASCAR’s national touring series. Both times, a win in Daytona wound up being a harbinger of things to come: In 2015, he contended for the Truck Series championship before winding up second to Erik Jones at season’s end. Three years later, he did one better by winning his first of back-to-back championships in the O’Reilly Series.

Even in the aftermath of his Daytona 500 win – which made him the first driver to win at Daytona in all three of NASCAR’s national touring series – knowing what Daytona has set him up for and what has followed provided Reddick with somewhat of a further level of anticipation – The idea that becoming a Daytona 500 champion may very well greatly aid his long-term goal of a Cup Series championship.

“There’s a few ways to look at this. But I think for me, I’m excited for what this year holds,” Reddick said. “Typically when I’ve won at Daytona to start the year off, things have come together by the end of the year for me. Things go well. I’m excited for what that means.”

In the context of the 2026 season, whatever comes of Reddick’s Daytona 500 win will be for down the road. But in a singular moment on the single Sunday that means more than all others in stock car racing, Tyler Reddick became something far more than a Cup star, the racer accompanying celebrity car owner Michael Jordan in Victory Lane, and someone emerging as one of the top drivers of his generation: With his name etched in silver and placed on the Harley J. Earl Trophy, he is now in leagues with the greatest to have ever raced in NASCAR, and now distinguished from his contemporaries, as someone who has experienced the rush and elation of having won the Daytona 500.

In the moment, winning the greatest race of them all was almost beyond belief for Reddick. But no matter – There’s an eternity ahead for being a Daytona 500 champion to sink in.

Like Mike: Tyler Reddick Scores a Record Three Wins in a Row to Kickoff 2026

BY: KAUY OSTLIEN

Tyler Reddick and 23XI Racing made racing history early in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, with the veteran driver making his mark as the first driver in NASCAR’s history to win the first three races of a season, capping off a comeback nobody saw coming.

Daytona 500

TYLER REDDICK DID NOT ENTER EITHER THE 2026 SEASON, OR THE Daytona 500, as a favorite.

A year earlier, the No. 45 team endured its toughest stretch since joining 23XI Racing. They went winless. Their playoff run ended early. And away from the track, Reddick and his family faced something far more important as their son, Rookie, spent much of the latter half of 2025 in the hospital.

The first week of the season did not begin smoothly either. Reddick qualified 40th for the Daytona 500 and finished 12th in his Duel, lining up 26th for the sport’s biggest race.

But Sunday was different. As chaos unfolded around him in typical Daytona fashion, Reddick avoided the trouble and put himself where he needed to be in the closing laps. With help from a 23XI teammate, he surged forward when it mattered most.

When the checkered flag flew and Reddick stood in Victory Lane, it was only the first step in what would become one of the most historic starts in NASCAR history.

EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta)

WINNING THE DAYTONA 500 IS A CAREER MILESTONE. SURVIVING THE week after it can be just as demanding.

Tyler Reddick spent the days following his victory in a whirlwind of interviews, appearances, and cross-country travel. The media tour that follows a Daytona 500 win is relentless on its own. Add the spotlight of representing 23XI Racing and team owner Michael Jordan, and the attention only intensifies.

By the time the series arrived at EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta, Reddick had barely had a moment to breathe.

Thanks to a qualifying rainout and his Daytona triumph, the No. 45 rolled off the truck on the pole. But Atlanta’s drafting-style chaos quickly erased any advantage. On lap 225, Reddick was caught in an accident that tore up the left-front of the Toyota. The team pulled the majority of the damaged fender away in the garage area and sent him back onto the track.

It turned out to be the break they needed. Reddick carved his way through the pack in the closing laps. Two races into the season, the Daytona winner was no fluke.

Circuit of the Americas

REDDICK ARRIVED AT CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS WITH HISTORY STARING him in the face.

Wins in the first two races of the season had already placed him in rare territory. Only Matt Kenseth in 2009, Jeff Gordon in 1997, David Pearson in 1976, Bob Welborn in 1954, and Marvin Panch in 1957 had opened a NASCAR season with back-to-back victories. But no driver, in 78 years of NASCAR competition, had ever won the first three races of a season.

COTA was next. Since the track debuted in 2021, Reddick had been the standard on the 3.41-mile road course. He added to that reputation immediately in 2026, capturing the pole on Saturday.

After the opening stage, Reddick’s Toyota came alive. He led 58 laps, controlled the rhythm of the race, and answered every challenge, including pressure from road-course legend Shane van Gisbergen.

As fans drew comparisons to Michael Jordan’s championship three-peats, Reddick delivered one of his own. When the checkered flag waved over Circuit of the Americas, the California native had done what no driver before him had accomplished: three straight wins to open a NASCAR season.

5 Reasons EVERY NASCAR FAN

Reaches speeds of 20+ mph

Can be tuned and upgraded like a real Cup car

Recharge in an hour — race nonstop for 20 minutes

NASCAR fans understand that racing is a language of precision, physics, and relentless competition. It is a sport built on the technical mastery of clean air in the pack, the strategic management of tire falloff during long green-flag runs, and the high-stakes setup adjustments that define a championship bid. This passion for performance finds its perfect offtrack match in the world of high-end radio-controlled racing. Owning a Losi RC car brings the technical complexity and visceral excitement of the speedway into your own driveway or local RC track. These machines are engineered for the same fans who spend their Sundays analyzing telemetry and pit strategy. Here are five reasons why a Losi belongs in every NASCAR fan’s.

1

Mastering the Fundamentals of Race Craft

NASCAR fans are students of the sport who recognize how throttle control dictates corner exit and why braking zones are sacred territory. A Losi RC car has proportional steering and throttle so it requires these exact same skills. High-performance RC platforms demand genuine driving talent to manage acceleration without inducing wheel spin and to feather steering inputs for maximum momentum.

The fundamentals of the track mirror what you see on race day. When you run laps in a parking lot or on a dedicated RC circuit, you gain a deeper appreciation for the split-second decisions Cup drivers make at 200 mph. Oversteer becomes a physical sensation in your hands rather than just a replay graphic. Consistency becomes your own personal lap timer rather than a statistic on a broadcast. This experience sharpens your eye for race craft and transforms your perspective from a spectator to an active participant in the dynamics of speed.

2The Engineering and Tuning Experience

The heart of NASCAR is the garage, where ride height, suspension geometry, and tire selection determine the winner. Losi embraces this performance-driven philosophy by building engineered platforms instead of disposable toys. Their vehicles feature adjustable suspension, tunable shocks, multiple tire compounds, and various gearing options.

mimic full-scale racing technology.

The attention to detail extends beyond the surface. From the functional aerodynamics to the internal components, these cars are designed to look and act like the real thing. Displaying a Losi in your home or shop is a statement of your passion for the sport, but the real satisfaction comes from seeing that scale realism in motion. Watching a 1/12 scale car lean into a corner or skip over a ripple in the pavement provides a visual thrill that captures the essence of the track in a smaller, more accessible package.

4

Durability Built for Competition

Racing is a contact sport, and NASCAR fans appreciate the toughness required to survive 500 miles of intense competition. Losi builds their RC cars with that same spirit of durability. Using high-quality materials like aluminum, reinforced composites, and hardened steel drive components, these vehicles are designed to withstand the rigors of high-speed runs and the occasional wall tap. This reliability means you spend more time racing and less time on the sidelines. Just as a Cup team builds a car to endure the banking at Bristol, Losi engineers their platforms to handle the real-world environments where fans play. Whether you are speed-running on asphalt or navigating a dirt oval, you can push the limits with the confidence that your equipment is built to take the heat.

For the fan who obsesses over crew chief calls and setup notes, this is an opportunity to step into that role. You can experiment with different shock oils to handle bumps or adjust your camber to find more grip in the turns. This technical engagement provides a hands-on understanding of the mechanical adjustments that teams make every weekend. It turns the abstract concepts of automotive engineering into a tangible, rewarding hobby that rewards patience and precision.

3Authentic Scale, Realism, and Detail

NASCAR fans value authenticity and the iconic look of the Gen-7 car. Losi understands this connection to the visual identity of the sport. Many of their models feature officially licensed bodies, realistic tire treads, and chassis designs that

5

Joining a Community of Speed

NASCAR is defined by its community of dedicated fans who share a love for the roar of the engines and the thrill of the finish. The RC world offers a similar sense of camaraderie. Owning a Losi connects you to a global network of enthusiasts, local racing clubs, and track events where you can test your skills against others.

Many NASCAR fans find that the RC community provides a social outlet that mirrors the atmosphere of the infield. It is a place to swap tuning tips, share stories of great races, and enjoy the competitive spirit in a friendly environment. Whether you are racing against friends in a cul-de-sac or competing in a sanctioned club event, the shared pursuit of speed creates a bond that enhances your overall enjoyment of motorsports. A Losi RC car is your entry ticket into this fast-paced, rewarding world.

HAULERMILEAGE

THE LONG HAUL NASCAR HAULER DRIVERS RACK UP MAJOR MILEAGE IN 2026

BY KAUY OSTLIEN

If fans think their favorite driver logs a lot of miles on track each season, NASCAR’s hauler drivers, some of the hardest-working people in the sport, will rack up nearly 60,000 miles during the season, hauling the sport’s top equipment from track to track.

What does that journey actually look like? A look at the stats and highlights shows just how demanding a season behind the wheel of a NASCAR hauler can be.

For this breakdown, Charlotte Motor Speedway, often called NASCAR’s home track and the closest thing the sport has to a home game, serves as the starting point.

Located in Concord, North Carolina, the track functions as a true base for a hypothetical NASCAR journey. It sits just 5.4 miles from Trackhouse Racing, four miles from RFK Racing, and 1.9 miles from Hendrick Motorsports.

The 2026 season opened with a relatively short trip north to Winston-Salem for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

That drive totaled just 65.1 miles, or 130.2 miles round trip. From there, the mileage quickly climbed as teams headed south to Daytona International Speedway for Speedweeks, 491 miles from Concord and 982 miles round trip.

The first true long-haul stretch of the season sent the NASCAR Cup Series west to Circuit of the Americas, 1,199 miles away, followed by Phoenix Raceway at 2,114 miles, and Las Vegas Motor Speedway at 2,239 miles.

With the first five races now complete, the travel has already added up in a hurry.

The schedule then provides some relief with three straight races at Darlington Raceway, Martinsville Speedway, and Bristol Motor Speedway, each less than 200 miles from Concord. Even so, those three shorter trips still combine for 770 miles.

The most demanding stretch of the season comes when NASCAR hits its true coast-tocoast stride, crossing Texas, Arizona, and Nevada before heading into back-to-back races in California.

First in that swing is the inaugural NASCAR race in San Diego at Naval Base Coronado, 2,401 miles from Concord. The following weekend at Sonoma Raceway tops the chart with a staggering 2,754-mile trip, or 5,508 miles round-trip.

Another track that may surprise fans with its distance is Iowa Speedway, which sits 1,024 miles from Concord, tucked into the heart of the Midwest.

When the regular season concludes and the 10-race 2026 NASCAR Chase begins, hauler drivers face another major test. The playoff stretch alone totals 15,506 miles, including round trips..

For teams based in Concord, the grind is eased slightly by race six of the Chase at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The long journey ultimately concludes with one final 700-plus-mile drive back to Florida, as the series returns to Homestead-Miami Speedway. That 1,560-mile round trip pushes the season total to roughly 58,548.4 miles across a grueling 36-race, 10-month NASCAR calendar.

DRIVERSGIVINGBACK

Josh Williams

osh Williams and his signature mullet are hard to miss in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series garage area. Quite frankly, Williams looks like he’s living in the 1970s.

But his classic look makes him look like a movie star, and that is especially exciting for children who see this bold-looking man appear to them in a hospital.

This year, Williams is behind the wheel of the No. 92 Chevrolet for DGM Racing.

Williams is known not only for being a fierce competitor in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series but also for his incredible charity work. Before each race, Williams does something quite special. Since 2014, he has visited different children’s hospitals across the nation. He always finds one that is near a racetrack, and he has done incredible work with them ever since he began this journey.

“We had a sponsor of ours that had a relative, and they were in the hospital battling leukemia,” Williams recalls. “I think she was 7 years old at the time. So we made a deal where we were going to go see her and visit her. She loved racing and loved the cars. So we went and visited her hospital. She called it ‘her hospital.’ It wasn’t anybody else’s, it was hers.

“We brought our car over there and hung out with them for a while. Man, it just makes you appreciate life. You know, the kids were in good spirits and they were so happy. They enjoyed that moment of being able to be around the car, ask questions, and enjoy themselves. So it was really cool for me to see that and to be a part of it. Once we left, I said, man, we’ve got to do this again. So we would reach out to hospitals when we first started and say, ‘Hey, we’d like to come visit.’ It grew to the point where hospitals now call us to come visit. So that’s been really cool.”

Williams often brings his racecar with him to the children’s hospitals, giving the kids something to look forward to beyond seeing a racecar driver in his firesuit. When he visits the hospitals, there is no time limit. It’s not a set-in-stone public appearance for a half hour or an hour. It’s not a PR stunt, but a real and natural program.

Most of all, Williams’ core partners like Optum Health and Alloy Employer Services are major supporters of his hospital tours.

“Our biggest supporter for the hospital tour, and everything we do there, is going to be Optum Health,” Williams says of his 2026 tours. “So super excited to have them on board. We’re doing a lot more stuff for the kids and just trying to give back a little bit more. Having them on board is going to be a huge help for us to reach more people and

just be able to give back a little bit more than we have been.”

In 2022, Williams was nominated as a finalist for the Comcast Community Champion of the Year Award. That year, he expanded his charity work in a unique partnership with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.

He enlisted the help of OhmniLabs to use their telepresence robots, providing an opportunity for some children to virtually experience at-track garage tours from their hospital beds. That year, he formed a relationship with Seacrest’s nonprofit, which builds closed-circuit TV and radio studios in children’s hospitals throughout the country to increase experiences for patients who can’t make the trip to the track.

One moment that stands out for Williams is when he met an incredible kid, Andrew, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“Man, he was very energetic, super smart, and he was mad because somebody broke the Nintendo Switch that the hospital had,” Williams recalls. “It was right when they first came out, so they were super hard to find. We left that day after we were doing our visit, and I was like, ‘Man, we’ve got to find this kid his own Nintendo Switch.’ So me and three or four other people went on a search, and we found one about 45 minutes from the hospital.

“I went to go get it, picked it up, and got him a couple extra things like a

A LIFE DEDICATED TO HELPING CHILDREN

little steering wheel and some other items to go with it. We brought it to him the next day. He had no idea, and we created a relationship with him. We went back a little while later, and he wasn’t at the hospital during that visit. We go to leave, we get downstairs, get off the elevator, and go out through the front doors. And he’s standing there in the lobby with his mom.

“One of the nurses called and said, ‘Hey, Josh is here.’ She actually pulled him out of school. She said he came straight from school in the middle of the day to meet me in the lobby. So to me, that was a pretty special moment, man. It still kind of gets to me a little bit when I tell the story. Now he’s come to the racetrack at Homestead a few times, and we’re still friends.”

What makes the experience of visiting sick children in hospitals even more heartwarming for Williams is that he is now a father. He and his wife, Trazia, welcomed baby girl Ettalynn into the world in March of 2024.

As Williams continues on this special journey, he is excited to keep making children smile all across America.

NASCAR DRIVERS’ INCREDIBLE NONPROFITS

NASCAR DRIVERS ARE unique compared to other athletes in that serving communities is at the core of who they are. No one is forced to create a nonprofit, but it is incredibly meaningful to see an athlete take the time and resources to help others. There are several unique nonprofits that drivers have created to provide assistance and give back in different ways.

Samantha and Kyle Busch created the Bundle of Joy Fund, dedicated to advocating for infertility education and awareness and removing financial barriers, after the couple experienced their own difficulties with infertility. Their foundation provides grants to families who cannot afford IVF treatment with various clinics.

Brad Keselowski’s Checkered Flag Foundation provides assistance to military veterans and first responders across the nation, partnering with other nonprofits to provide veterans with service dogs, camp programs, treatment, tickets to NASCAR races, and much more.

The Joey Logano Foundation is one that steps in to provide direct support to “children and young adults during times of crisis, with a focus on those in the foster care system.”

The Ryan Blaney Foundation is dedicated to advocating for brain health awareness and providing resources for people, families, and caregivers facing Alzheimer’s disease or concussions.

No matter the cause, it is clear that these individuals are dedicated to serving those who are going through incredibly difficult situations.

THE Carson Hocevar EXPERIENCE

BY JARED TURNER

In a sport built on payback, Carson knows everyone is keeping score.

DDespite significant performance gains over his rookie NASCAR Cup Series season of 2024, Carson Hocevar didn’t make a lot of friends on the racetrack in 2025. Nor did he do anything, at least in plain view, to atone for the mistakes he made as a rookie. Drivers with whom Hocevar has personally clashed or otherwise angered since joining NASCAR’s premier division most notably include Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Ryan Blaney, Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell, Bubba Wallace, and Austin Dillon.

And even before his time in the Cup Series, during his three full seasons as a Camping World Truck Series driver, the youngster from Portage, Michigan, built a reputation for recklessness.

So, what, if anything, does Hocevar have planned in 2026 to soften his image with the folks he’s ticked off?

In short, not a whole lot.

“I think it could be seen as a negative if I go up to them and I’m like, ‘Hey, I want to rebuild this bridge,’” Hocevar said during an exclusive interview with NASCAR Pole Position in late January. “I think it would appear to come from a place of, ‘Hey, I know the score is leaning toward me winning the situation, and I am getting ready to get hit back at some point, so I want to draw the truce now before I ever get mine.’ So I think doing that just makes it worse.”

Not that Hocevar, 23, has totally given up on trying to send olive branches to the people he’s angered and frustrated.

“In my mind, the only way to ever sort of repay or make inroads is on the racetrack,” he said. “That’s why I hate the ‘You have a run-in with a driver, and you call them Monday. You wreck them on Sunday and call them on Monday.’ If I’m on the receiving end on the racetrack and I get called, I’m going to be like, ‘I get that you called, but I’m good. Maybe let me go next week, and I will forgive you a lot more.’ I understand that because I’m the one, most of the time, dishing it on the track.”

Hocevar called his approach to racing his enemies, moving forward, “very situational.”

“Some guys that I’ve had run-ins with, you’re just aware of it, and you’re just like, ‘OK, well, eventually, I can’t just have the scorecard keep adding

up on my side and not expect any retaliation and expect the score to just be a complete blowout on my side,’” he said. “It really depends on where the score is, if issues on the track are continuing, or if you already hated each other before, or whatever. But ultimately, I’m trying not to run into anybody. I’m just trying to beat them.”

Hocevar believes that even cutting his rivals a break on the track won’t be enough to earn the confidence and respect of many people he’s upset, especially some fans of drivers he’s rubbed the wrong way.

“It doesn’t matter if I go the first 34 weeks without ever even getting close to a car and I have a beautiful track record as consistent as can be,” he said. “If that 35th week I get loose and make a mistake and hit somebody, it’s not going to be, ‘Oh, man, I know he’s changed. That was a mistake.’ It’s, ‘No, the old Carson is back, and those 34 weeks don’t matter.’

“I don’t think there’s ever anything I can just do to change the narrative that the public would see, for sure. There are a lot of times I’ve given up a position on the racetrack, but people just aren’t aware of it.”

Last season, a season in which he nearly scored his first Cup Series win and displayed tremendous speed at times, represented a marked improvement over 2024 in terms of on-track results.

Consider, for example, that Hocevar posted nine top-10 finishes, compared to six as a rookie, and led 122 laps after pacing the field for all of 16 laps the year prior. That success was somewhat tainted, however, not just by his problems with competitors on the racetrack but also by some poor decisions he made when not running at full speed.

One of those decisions, spinning the tires on his No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet while safety workers attended to a stalled vehicle at Kansas Speedway in late September, resulted in a $50,000 fine and a stern rebuke from NASCAR.

Earlier in the year, as NASCAR was preparing to travel for the Cup Series’ first-ever race in Mexico City, Hocevar made some disparaging comments about the city. Those remarks, which hit the airwaves during a livestream, drew the ire of not just NASCAR but his own team, which fined him $50,000.

Reflecting back on those missteps many months later, Hocevar managed to actually find some positives.

“I think it just makes our group closer,” he said. “It’s no secret that Jeff Dickerson, our owner, and I are very close. He used to be Kyle Busch’s agent when Kyle was young, and I don’t know the best way to put it, but Kyle wasn’t the perfect role model for rules and regulations and sportsmanship at times.

“So it just kind of rallied the troops behind us and reassured me that I have my guys through the good and bad, and it’s just a part of the learning process of everything. You’re not going to do everything perfectly, especially in a competitive environment. You’re going to push the envelope in a lot of different ways.”

While there might be a good number of drivers and a significant segment of the NASCAR fan base that don’t embrace Hocevar’s aggression and candor, they represent a style uniquely his.

“When I was in school, I wasn’t on time to a lot of things,” he said. “I just enjoyed doing it my way, whether it was math or writing or English or whatever. Figuring out my way, whether it was right or wrong, I was just glad I did it. Through years and years of now doing it as a race car driver, you still have those habits just because that’s who you are. At some point, you are who you are.”

Despite facing some repercussions for his actions as recently as last season, Hocevar believes he can be his true self without risk of punishment or backlash.

“From the team side, they’re pretty bought in,” he said. “From the sponsor side, they’re definitely bought in because they’re the ones writing the checks. And I think we’re all, on the competitive side, pretty bought in to how we’re going to race as a team and how the team is going to go about it, and how I’m going to present myself.

“They kind of are just like, ‘OK, we’ll roll with this,’ as long as I’m showing up to my responsibilities as a professional and not damaging anything that they’re building by not showing up on time for stuff and things like that. As long as we’re just going to the racetrack and performing, I don’t really have to look over my shoulder and worry about my back getting stabbed by anybody, especially near me.”

5 Reasons CARSON HOCEVAR IS NASCAR’S MOST ORIGINAL CHARACTER

1

HE’S WINNING THE INTERNET

If there were a trophy for “Best Online Presence,” Hocevar would have locked it up by now. He’s essentially the blueprint for how a modern driver connects with fans outside the track. Whether he’s collaborating with massive creators like Cleetus McFarland and IShowSpeed or just hanging out with fans during an iRacing stream on Twitch, Carson is everywhere. If there’s a digital corner of the NASCAR world to conquer, he’s already planted a flag there.

2 THAT “MAIN CHARACTER” ENERGY

You can’t be the guy NASCAR leans on for digital growth unless you actually have a personality to back it up, and Carson has that in spades. He’s not afraid to get a little wild for the sake of the sport. This season, he teamed up with Cleetus McFarland to rip donuts and blast flamethrowers for a 2026 hype video. Forget PR, that’s a guy who genuinely knows how to put on a show.

3 THE ULTIMATE UNDERDOG

Being entertaining off the track is great, but it doesn’t mean much if you can’t wheel a race car. Carson’s rise is the kind of success story fans love. Just three years ago, he was a Truck Series regular who hadn’t even found Victory Lane yet. If you’d told a fan then that he’d be one of the Cup Series’ brightest young stars today, they probably would have called you crazy. He’s earned his spot the hard way.

4 A SPONSOR’S DREAM

Let’s be real, has anyone been better at “selling” their sponsors lately than Hocevar? It’s hard to pin down exactly why it works so well. Maybe it’s the wild, custom firesuits that demand your attention, or maybe it’s just his “whatever it takes” attitude. You get the feeling that if Chili’s asked him to wait tables on a Monday morning to help the brand, he’d show up with a smile and a tray.

5 HE’S ONE OF US

At the end of the day, sports fans want to root for someone who loves the game as much as they do. And Carson is known as a massive NASCAR nerd. He grew up in the online community just like the fans, even participating in Eric Estepp’s stop-motion races as a kid. That genuine passion for the sport’s history and its community is exactly why he resonates so well with the people in the grandstands.

CHAMPION

BY JARED TURNER

Jesse Love never bought the idea he was second best, and he proved it when the title was on the line.

EEntering the 2025 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series finale at Phoenix Raceway, Connor Zilisch was a heavy favorite among the four championship finalists.

After all, the JR Motorsports driver had captured a series-high 10 wins and had been in a league of his own virtually the entire year.

Given this reality, it was only natural for fellow title contender Jesse Love, who had only been to Victory Lane one time in 2025, to consider himself a clear underdog, right?

Think again.

Despite the odds being stacked in Zilisch’s favor, Love wasn’t about to concede defeat. Nor did he.

Saving his very best for last, Love shocked the NASCAR world by scoring the victory in his No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. Zilisch, meanwhile, proved to be human at long last, finishing third in the race and runner-up to Love, his best friend, in the championship standings.

While many in the NASCAR world justifiably hailed Love’s title win as a major upset, Love himself didn’t see it that way.

“I was definitely very confident,” the now 21-year-old said in an exclusive interview with NASCAR Pole Position. “I felt like, going into it, I had the best shot of anybody to go win the championship. Me and the whole No. 2 team, we were able to go into the race with our T’s crossed and our I’s dotted, and that is where our confidence came from.

“How I was raised and the way I grew up definitely worked out in my favor there in Phoenix, just the way I look at high-pressure situations, the way I can compartmentalize things. Not to pat myself on the back, but it makes me a pretty tough competitor. When you’re in a super high-pressure situation like that, I typically perform at the highest level.”

Did Love bring any extra motivation into the championship race, given that almost no one was picking him and his team, led by crew chief Danny Stockman, to walk away with the title?

“Yes and no. But at the same time, my job is still the same,” said Love, who showed up in 2025 as no better than a championship

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longshot after notching a lone win and finishing eighth in points as a series rookie in 2024. “If Larry McReynolds, of FOX Sports, doesn’t pick me to win the championship, I’m just using Larry as an analyst in the sport, nothing against him, but if somebody doesn’t pick me, it’s not like I want to go win so I can say, ‘I told you so,’ to them. But there is, I guess, a little bit of a cool factor in doing it.

“At the end of the day, it’s not like their picks were wrong. Me and Stockman and the whole No. 2 team went up against kind of a juggernaut of a JR Motorsports team last year, and our grit and determination were able to shine through when all the pressure was the highest. I think that if I had been in the sport for longer or if everybody was more in tune with the way I go about those things, then more people probably would have picked me.”

Not surprisingly, once Love brought home the championship, he heard some online chatter that he didn’t deserve it, given his number of wins compared to Zilisch’s.

“I listen to the fans nine times out of 10,” Love said. “The only people I didn’t listen to or thought less of were the people who were mad at me or Stockman for winning the championship, because, at the end of the day, the rules were the same for everybody.

“I’m not in the business of getting people to change their minds or changing how they think. I just don’t have the time or the energy to do that. It’s not like we broke any rules or any rules were different for us than anybody else.”

This year, of course, NASCAR’s major stock car divisions, the Cup Series, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the Craftsman Truck Series, have a new championship format that places a greater emphasis on consistency over the course of the entire season. Instead of the champion being crowned from among a quartet of drivers who enter the final race with equal points, the champ will be the driver who has the most points at the end of a playoff that no longer features elimination rounds.

based on point totals amassed over a full season, Love has proven himself quite versatile.

“I’ve got one championship in a playoff format, and I’ve got about 20 in full-season formats,” the Menlo Park, California, native said. “I feel like I can do both at a very high level, and whatever format NASCAR gives us, it’s up to the teams and the drivers to execute that format.”

Strategy-wise, Love doesn’t foresee much changing for him in his third season as a driver in NASCAR’s No. 2 series.

“Obviously, the rules are different now, so you kind of have to adapt to them,” he said. “But in the grand scheme of things, at least the way I’m going to approach it and my team is going to approach it, it’s no different at all.

“Even if they were to have a 33-race regular season and a onerace championship with no playoffs, the game is the same. You’re going to show up and do the best you can every week.”

This season, Love has an opportunity to join a relatively short list of drivers who’ve secured consecutive championships in what’s now the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. But becoming part of that elite fraternity isn’t his ultimate goal.

Instead, it’s to do what Zilisch, his primary championship foe from a season ago, has done in 2026, go full-time NASCAR Cup Series racing.

“I don’t think a whole lot about history, until I get into the Cup Series and can make the history there,” Love said. “I would not be here if I didn’t plan on going to the Cup Series. I have no desire to stay in O’Reilly or the Truck Series. I plan on moving to the Cup Series, so I kind of balance that emotion with the fact that it would be historically very relevant to go back-to-back.

“But I think I want it for a different reason. I want to go backto-back more to solidify a seat in the Cup Series than I do to be a two-time-in-a-row champion. The biggest accomplishment of my life, so far, is winning an O’Reilly championship, but I also have to balance it with the fact that if I let the moment get too big or don’t stay focused on my end goal, I’ll never achieve that end goal.”

Home Again

After a turbulent Cup season, Haley returns to familiar ground, a new series, and a life that suddenly means more off the track.

Let go by Spire Motorsports after the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, Justin Haley landed firmly on his feet for 2026.

In fact, he landed at a place that feels a lot like home. That place, Kaulig Racing, fielded a full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series entry for Haley from 2019 to 2021 and then campaigned a full-time Cup Series entry with Haley in 2022 and 2023.

Even last season, when Haley ran the No. 7 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports full time in the Cup Series, he made a cameo O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start for Kaulig Racing at Daytona International Speedway in August.

So when Spire decided to go in a different direction for 2026, ultimately filling Haley’s seat with Daniel Suarez, Haley didn’t have to look too far to find his next job. It came from Kaulig Racing, which, along with continuing to field the Cup Series cars of AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon this year, has ventured into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series to serve as the anchor team for RAM’s return to the sport as a manufacturer.

Haley is wheeling one of five full-time trucks fielded by the Matt Kaulig-owned organization, which shuttered the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series wing of the operation after 2025 to focus its efforts on teaming with RAM and getting its new Truck Series effort off the ground.

“When I got the news that Spire wasn’t going to honor my contract, I just kind of took a few days to talk with my wife and figure out what we were going to do, what we wanted to do, and what our next step in life would be,” said Haley, whose wife gave birth to the couple’s first child, a baby girl, in January. “We were welcoming our first child, and there were a lot of decisions that went into it. But ultimately, (Kaulig Racing president) Chris Rice reached out, and I had a lot of good conversations with AJ Allmendinger, who’s a very close friend of mine. Chris reached out, and AJ kind of helped seal the deal, not that I needed much persuading.”

Indeed, little persuading was necessary to lure Haley, who over the course of his two Cup and three O’Reilly Auto Parts Series seasons with Kaulig had already made more than 175 total starts for the Kernersville, North Carolina-based company before returning in 2026. The time he spent in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series with the organization bore considerable fruit, too, with Haley earning four wins over the three years and finishing a career-best third in the 2020 standings after making the Championship 4.

Haley sees no reason why he can’t enjoy similar success with Kaulig in the Craftsman Truck Series. Although he had never entered a truck race for the organization before this year, he was no stranger to NASCAR’s third division, having made a total of 53 truck starts prior to the 2026 season. In 2018, his one previous season as a full-time truck competitor, he won three races and ranked third in the final standings on the heels of a Championship 4 appearance. Between then and this year, Haley made three truck starts, including two in 2025 for Spire Motorsports.

So Haley entered 2026 boasting a level of familiarity not only with Kaulig Racing, but also with his new series.

“It’s obviously going to be a little bit of a transition, but it’s just learning the trucks, learning the RAM body, and how it reacts to air,” Haley said. “I know all the tracks we’re going to, besides St. Petersburg and San Diego. I’m confident in the team around me. They’re going to give me good trucks.

“Starting a five-truck team is crazy, so there’s always going to be work to be done. But I think we’re capable of a lot, and we accomplished so much just in the offseason trying to get trucks ready.”

As for what went wrong at Spire, where Haley recorded just two top-10 finishes in his lone full Cup Series season with the organization, the Winamac, Indiana, native says he hasn’t given it a lot of thought.

“There’s just a business side to the sport, and the business side comes first,” Haley said. “It was obviously a tough year. We had really good runs. I respect everyone over there. I really just don’t have anything to say, good or bad. It was just another year of my life. It obviously didn’t end the way we wanted it to, but you keep moving forward.”

Does Haley feel like he has something to prove in his career after being fired from his now-former team?

“No,” he said. “Not really at all. I’m just doing the best I can and putting forth all of my effort. I feel like I had a few really good seasons with Kaulig in the Cup Series and then transitioned to Rick Ware Racing in 2024 and had a lot of success, and then we had some really good runs, too, at Spire. For me, it’s just finding somewhere that I’m comfortable and pushing my team around me to be better and pushing myself to be better. So, nothing really to prove.”

Aside from being back with a team and in a series that he knows quite well, Haley sees another silver lining to his arrangement for 2026. As a full-time Craftsman Truck Series driver, he isn’t on the road nearly as much as he would be in a full-time Cup Series role.

Being a new dad, Haley has a hard time complaining about getting to soak up every minute he possibly can with his infant daughter.

“I’m going to cherish this part of life,” he said. “Everyone wants to race Cup, right? That’s obviously everyone’s goal in NASCAR, to have a full-time seat in the Cup Series. But I’m going to cherish this and spend more time at home and spend some more time dirt racing and focus on raising our baby.

“I feel like I can still have that fire under me to race a Cup Series car. I still do. Obviously, that’s everyone’s main goal. But for the time being, I’m content where I’m at. And I think it’s a good step for me. I’m excited to be back with Kaulig Racing, and I feel like this is just where I’m supposed to be at this moment in time.”

And for the foreseeable future.

“I was born and raised at Kaulig pretty much,” Haley said. “It’s awesome that I’m back with them. Frankly, I don’t really ever see myself leaving again. I don’t care if I’m sweeping floors or what, as long as I’m working for Matt Kaulig. I just know everyone. Obviously, there are people who have come and gone since I was there last, but it’s definitely home for me.”

For these fans, the most valuable item isn’t the rarest, it’s the one that tells their story.

NASCAR fandom is often measured by the collections fans build over decades. While some collectors chase high market value and rare production runs, others prioritize the personal memories attached to a specific item. From race-worn gear and sheet metal to diecasts that mark a first race or a final win, these pieces serve as a physical history of the sport. We spoke with ten dedicated collectors about the one item in their collection that stands above the rest.

Julio

Sometimes NASCAR diecast collectors score a truly rare piece, and this one is no exception.

Julio Cruz grew up watching NASCAR in the late 1990s and began piecing together a collection from McDonald’s Happy Meals.

While it was a small start, Julio says his collecting and fandom really took off in 2015.

Since then, he has assembled a collection made up of Hendrick Motorsports stars from Jeff Gordon to Kyle Larson, tributes to Richard Petty’s iconic No. 43, and, as he puts it, anything he likes regardless of team, driver, or manufacturer.

In total, his collection has grown to well over 500 diecasts in all scales.

Given his support of HMS drivers, it should be no surprise that his most treasured item is a signed 1/24-scale diecast of the DuPont Chevrolet Gordon won with at Sonoma in 2006.

This piece, aside from being the crown jewel of Julio’s Sonoma collection, is also a rarity in the diecast world, produced in limited quantity solely for DuPont employees.

David

Not every NASCAR fan collects just one specific kind of item. Take David, a 30-year veteran of the fandom, who, like many others, grew up around the sport in North Carolina.

With his deep connection to the sport and its community, David has built an impressive collection split between two cornerstones of NASCAR collecting, sheet metal and diecasts.

For those who may not know the finer points of NASCAR history, it could be easy to assume that his sheet metal, pieces once used on track, would be his most prized possession. But for those with an eye for the sport, his diecast case holds models many would consider true pieces of NASCAR history.

At first glance, hardcore fans will notice that these drivers, minus Hall of Famer Junior Johnson, are champions. Even more special, each of the cars is signed by NASCAR royalty, including Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Richard Petty, and Dale Earnhardt.

Michael

Michael Patrusevich became a NASCAR fan in 2001, first experiencing the sport during the emotional Daytona 500.

Despite the tragedy at the end of that race, Michael found a home within NASCAR and began collecting in 2003, steadily growing his inventory.

In 2016, Lionel Racing launched its NASCAR Authentics retail line, which reignited his passion and expanded his interests into 1/24-scale models.

Among more than 2,000 collectibles, Michael’s most prized is his 1/24-scale diecast of Jamie McMurray’s 2010 Daytona 500 winner.

McMurray’s victory marked a new chapter with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, and Michael, who shares a birthday with the driver, was cheering from start to finish.

Kelton

KELTON HAS BEEN A NASCAR fan all his life, coming from a family that loved racing and attended events throughout his lifetime. His prized NASCAR possession is a great example of how an item, despite not being considered rare or costly, can have priceless sentimental value to its owner. In fact, this old Christopher Bell hat is the reason Kelton is a diehard fan of the Joe Gibbs Racing driver. During Bell’s dominant time as the top driver in JGR’s NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series program in the late 2010s, Kelton, already a fan of the then-prospect, would wear the hat religiously at Texas Motor Speedway. One day, Bell was riding in a golf cart down the midway at TMS on his way to practice and qualifying and noticed Kelton.

The future Cup Series star then asked his driver to turn around so he could sign the hat and chat with Kelton. While Kelton says this made him a fan for life, the moment extended beyond that. At Daytona a few months later, Kelton, still wearing his hat, was recognized by Bell once again.

Charlie

Charlie’s love affair with NASCAR has lasted his entire life, with his father working as a freelance photographer for Winston Cup Scene for 15 years.

Still, he says his earliest clear memories of following the sport began in 2008.

At that time, Carl Edwards was in the early stages of his remarkable run in Roush Fenway’s No. 99.

Charlie became a fan, and in 2011, at the All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, he experienced the thrill of watching Edwards win in person.

That moment makes the 1/24-scale race win diecast from that night an easy choice as his prized possession.

The story didn’t end there.

Charlie didn’t get one in the original production run, but nearly a decade later, his college roommate surprised him with it as a gift. In 2024, he even had it signed by Edwards.

Matthew

Matthew, a fan of NASCAR since watching Bill Elliott on TV with his dad in the late 1980s, might have one of the most story-rich collections in the community.

Within his sprawling display are sentimental items signed by late NASCAR legends like Adam Petty, Alan Kulwicki, Dale Earnhardt Sr., Greg Biffle, Jason Leffler, Kenny Irwin, and Davey Allison.

There are also highly sought-after pieces of sheet metal, including parts from notable moments in Bubba Wallace’s career.

These span from his 2015 SpongeBob paint scheme in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series to more recent pieces like the name rail from his 2020 Daytona 500 ride.

However, the highlight of his Bubba Wallace collection is the combination of the Mile 22 firesuit and hood from Wallace’s dramatic crash at Pocono in 2018.

Matthew says he found the hood in a Facebook group, made a four-hour drive to pick it up, and later lucked into the firesuit. He didn’t realize it was the same one Wallace wore until he photo-matched it.

Steven

Steven has been a NASCAR fan for nearly 25 years, first discovering the sport during the 2001 season.

That same year, Chicagoland Speedway opened in Joliet, Illinois, giving Steven the chance to experience NASCAR in person not far from home.

From that moment, he was hooked, and his passion has grown into a collection that now includes diecasts and trading cards.

The backbone of his display is two-time Cup Series champion Terry Labonte, with models representing many of the Texan’s most memorable moments.

Steven believes he owns nearly every Labonte diecast produced.

Yet his most prized piece is the 1/24-scale model of Labonte’s 1984 Piedmont Airlines Chevrolet, the car that delivered his first championship for owner Billy Hagan.

Luke

Sometimes building a NASCAR collection can happen by accident, growing as you grow as a fan.

For some, collections are built with intent, pursuing race-winning diecasts, merchandise tied to specific sponsors or defunct teams, while others grow their collections naturally as their love for the sport expands.

Chase Elliott began his full-time NASCAR Cup Series career ten years ago, and ten years ago, Luke, a Chase Elliott superfan, became a NASCAR fan.

Like many kids of the 2000s, Luke fell in love with NASCAR not through a chance encounter on TV or by being gifted a diecast, but through Disney Pixar’s Cars. As a kid, Luke saw the movie and fell in love with racing, watching NASCAR on

television, and playing NASCAR video games.

His prized NASCAR possession, a pit board with Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s iconic stylized No. 8, also entered his collection around that time. It was a gift from his aunt and one of his first pieces of NASCAR memorabilia.

Wesley

NASCAR fans find their favorite driver or team through many avenues, and some of the strongest ties come from family.

Wesley Masure III grew up in NASCAR. His dad worked for Rick Hendrick’s automotive division and was a devoted Hendrick Motorsports supporter.

Wesley, who collects everything Chase Elliott and Jeff Gordon, owned his prized possession, a 1/24-scale diecast of Gordon’s final career win

at Martinsville in 2015, for five years without knowing it.

His mom had bought it as a gift and simply forgot to give it to him. The diecast remained tucked away until she rediscovered it and finally presented it in 2020.

Then, in 2023 at Phoenix Raceway, when William Byron took the No. 24 to Victory Lane, Wesley met Gordon and had the car signed by the Hall of Famer.

Ben

NO MATTER WHAT, EVERY diehard NASCAR fan at one point in their life was gifted, purchased, or even traded for a NASCAR diecast.

Ben has been a NASCAR fan for nearly 15 years, and throughout those seasons, he remembers diecast cars playing a big role in his fandom.

A few years ago, Ben became interested in collecting historic paint schemes and race-winning diecasts, such as Kevin Harvick’s first race with Richard Childress Racing in 2001 and assorted Daytona 500-winning models. Though his buying has slowed in recent years, one diecast that still stands out is his 1/24-scale model of Dale Earnhardt’s 2000 Talladega win. Of course, it is an eyecatching car, decked out in the bright orange Winston No Bull colors, but it is best known for being the car Earnhardt drove to his final Cup Series victory.

While Ben doesn’t remember Earnhardt as a driver, this car has become his favorite, and despite rotating newer additions throughout the year, it has earned a permanent spot on his shelf.

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NASCAR Bucket List

The roar of engines may bring fans to NASCAR tracks, but the fun doesn’t end at the finish line. From local food favorites and outdoor adventures to music, history, and hidden gems, the towns surrounding these iconic speedways offer plenty to explore. Race weekend is just the start, NASCAR country delivers excitement on and off the track.

Pocono Raceway

THE TRICKY TRIANGLE

NASCAR RACE WEEKEND: JUNE 12–14, 2026

Set against the backdrop of the Pocono Mountains, NASCAR’s annual stop at the Tricky Triangle delivers a race weekend unlike any other.

Positioned in the Pocono Mountains between Lake Mountain and Mount Pocono, Pocono Raceway is one of NASCAR’s most unconventional venues. Built in 1969, the 2.5-mile oval has hosted NASCAR and open-wheel, earning the nickname the Tricky Triangle.

Each corner borrows from a different speedway, Turn 1 from Trenton, Turn 2, the Tunnel Turn, from Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Turn 3 from the flatter Milwaukee Mile. The layout demands adaptability and patience, and the race rarely settles into a steady rhythm.

FAN TAKE

Race weekend feels like a racing enclave. If you love camping, you have to visit Pocono Raceway. Camping along Long Pond Road fills early, turning the area into a temporary city. For RV travelers, the space and access make it a true multi-day stop.

On race day, Cup cars echo across the valley with a scenic backdrop. Between runs, fans can take in views, hike nearby trails, or get on the water at Lake Harmony.

AROUND THE TRACK

Race Week Adventures Fan Favorite Bites Fun Spots & Nightlife

POCONO OUTDOOR ADVENTURE TOURS

60 MILES FROM THE TRACK POCONOOUTDOORADVENTURETOURS.COM

Departing directly from raceway property, these guided UTV tours offer a chance to explore the Pocono Mountains from a different perspective, providing a slower-paced outdoor experience that contrasts perfectly with race-day intensity

KALAHARI

11 MILE FROM THE TRACK KALAHARIRESORTS.COM

Kalahari delivers year-round entertainment with its expansive indoor waterpark making it an ideal option for unwinding after the races or filling time when weather shifts the weekend indoors.

THE 940 JUNCTION

5 MILES FROM THE TRACK 940JUNCTION.COM

Located along PA-940 in Pocono Pines, this roadside grill and ice-cream stand offers outdoor seating and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular post-race gathering spot for fans swapping stories after a day at the track.

JUBILEE RESTAURANT

6 MILES FROM THE TRACK JUBILEERESTAURANT.COM

Known as the “Breakfast King of the Poconos,” Jubilee has been a local staple since the late 1960s, serving as a dependable stop for pre-race mornings and relaxed evenings throughout race weekend.

SHENANIGANS, LAKE HARMONY

6 MILES FROM THE TRACK SHENANIGANSLH.COM

This cabin-style bar blends karaoke, darts, pool tables, and a lively dance space, offering a casual nightlife option where race fans can keep the energy going once the sun sets.

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With a speakeasy-inspired feel, Redd’s Piano Bar features live performances and specialty cocktails, delivering a big-city lounge atmosphere tucked into the mountains just minutes from the raceway.

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THE BRICKYARD

NASCAR RACE WEEKEND: JULY 24–26, 2026 INDIANAPOLIS

The Brickyard 400 remains one of NASCAR’s most prestigious summer events, placing stock cars on one of motorsports’ most historic stages.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway transcends racing disciplines. Opened in 1909, the 2.5-mile rectangular oval has hosted legends across NASCAR, IndyCar, and Formula 1, earning its reputation as one of the world’s most revered venues. NASCAR joined that legacy in 1994 with the inaugural Brickyard 400, instantly elevating the event to crown-jewel status.

Winning at Indianapolis carries meaning beyond trophies. From Jeff Gordon’s breakthrough victory to Dale Earnhardt’s emotional 1995 triumph, NASCAR’s greatest drivers have added Brickyard wins to Hall of Fame careers.

FAN TAKE

Few venues command the same respect as Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The scale alone is overwhelming, from the massive grandstands to the quiet weight of more than a century of racing history. Attending the Brickyard 400 feels like stepping into motorsports folklore.

Moments here resonate across generations, whether it’s Gordon kissing the bricks or Tony Stewart winning at his home track. For fans who appreciate racing’s roots as much as its future, Indianapolis offers a weekend that feels timeless and significant.

AROUND THE TRACK

Race Week Adventures Fan Favorite Bites Fun Spots & Nightlife

INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY MUSEUM

0 MILES FROM THE TRACK IMSMUSEUM.ORG

Located inside the speedway, the museum features historic race cars, trophies, and exhibits that showcase over a century of motorsports history.

BENJAMIN HARRISON PRESIDENTIAL SITE

4 MILES FROM THE TRACK BHPSITE.ORG

This National Historic Landmark offers guided tours of the Hoosier president’s home, providing a quieter historical stop near downtown Indianapolis.

MIKE’S SPEEDWAY LOUNGE

.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK MIKESSPEEDWAYLOUNGE.CO

A longtime local staple, Mike’s serves tenderloins, burgers, and drinks just steps from the track, making it a natural gathering spot on race weekend.

BROZINNI PIZZERIA AT THE SPEEDWAY

.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK BROZINNI.COM

Known for New York-style pizza and a casual atmosphere, Brozinni’s offers a reliable pre- or post-race dining option near the speedway.

LUCAS OIL INDIANAPOLIS RACEWAY PARK

8 MILES FROM THE TRACK RACEIRP.COM

This nearby short track hosts national touring series and local racing, extending the motorsports experience beyond the Brickyard.

MIND TRIPPING SHOW

4 MILES FROM THE TRACK MINDTRIPPINGSHOW.COM

An interactive live performance combining mentalism and storytelling, offering a unique downtown entertainment option after race day.

Watkins Glen International

AMERICA’S ROAD RACING CROWN JEWEL

NASCAR RACE WEEKEND: MAY 8–10, 2026

Located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake, the village offers a relaxed Finger Lakes atmosphere that complements race weekend.

Nestled near the southern tip of Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen International sits among rolling hills and scenic vineyards. The 2.45-mile road course features high-speed straights, the technical Bust Stop, and elevation changes that challenge every driver on the grid. Spanning more than 500 acres, the venue offers one of NASCAR’s most sought-after infield passes.

Race weekend often begins days early for campers. From early practice sessions to Sunday’s checkered flag, Watkins Glen delivers constant on-track action and a festival-like atmosphere that makes the weekend one of NASCAR’s most immersive experiences.

FAN TAKE

Watkins Glen is ideal for fans seeking a getaway. The landscape provides natural viewing areas throughout the circuit, allowing fans to move freely and experience different perspectives during the race.

The Glen has produced historic moments, including first-time wins for Chase Elliott and standout performances by road-course specialists. The combination of technical racing, scenic surroundings, and welcoming campground culture makes Watkins Glen a place where fans feel instantly at home, regardless of how far they’ve traveled.

AROUND THE TRACK

Race Week Adventures Fan Favorite Bites Fun Spots & Nightlife

WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK

3 MILES FROM THE TRACK PARKS.NY.GOV/VISIT/STATE-PARKS/ WATKINS-GLEN-STATE-PARK

Known for waterfalls, stone bridges, and a deep gorge, this park features scenic trails and iconic stone stairways.

DOWNTOWN WATKINS GLEN

5.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK EXPLOREWATKINSGLEN.COM

This lakeside village offers shops, restaurants, and harbor access, all within walking distance of major attractions.

NICKEL’S PIT BBQ

5.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK NICKELSPITBBQ.COM

A longtime favorite featuring patio seating, barbecue, and views overlooking downtown Watkins Glen.

GRAFT WINE + CIDER BAR

5.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK GRAFTWINECIDERBAR.COM

This speakeasy-style spot focuses on local wines, ciders, and thoughtfully paired small plates.

FRANKLIN STREET, DOWNTOWN WATKINS GLEN

5.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK EXPLOREWATKINSGLEN.COM

A concentrated stretch of pubs and bars provides multiple evening options within a short walk.

WATKINS GLEN INTERNATIONAL INFIELD

<1 MILE FROM THE TRACK THEGLEN.COM

Race weekend infield camping features concerts, grilling, and fan gatherings that rival NASCAR’s most famous party scenes.

Texas Motor Speedway

WHERE SPEED MEETS TRADITION

NASCAR RACE WEEKEND: MAY 1–3, 2026

Located off I-35W near Alliance Airport, the speedway sits roughly 30 miles northwest of downtown Dallas within a major logistics corridor.

Since opening in 1997, Texas Motor Speedway has carried the slogan “Where Speed Meets Tradition,” quickly becoming a prominent stop on the NASCAR calendar. Though it shares the 1.5-mile length common to intermediate tracks, Texas stands apart with uneven banking, featuring steeper Turns 1 and 2 and flatter Turns 3 and 4. Limited tire wear and long greenflag runs have shaped its racing style over the years. Texas remains unpredictable. Nine consecutive races have produced nine different winners, with frequent cautions adding to the uncertainty. This unpredictability carried into the 2025 race, which was packed with excitement including multiple lead changes and late-race drama.

FAN TAKE

Texas Motor Speedway is known for fan amenities, including the massive Big Hoss TV, once the world’s largest HD screen. The display enhances sightlines and ensures fans never miss the action, regardless of seating location.

The track is especially popular with RV fans. For one, Burnout Alley offers an elevated camping experience along the backstretch, complete with dedicated restrooms and concierge service. For fans who enjoy comfort, camping culture, and unpredict ability, Texas remains a unique and evolving NAS CAR destination.

AROUND THE TRACK

Race Week Adventures Fan Favorite Bites Fun Spots & Nightlife

FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS

19 MILES FROM THE TRACK FORTWORTHSTOCKYARDS.ORG

This historic district celebrates Texas heritage with shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the famous cattle drives through downtown streets.

LONE STAR KARTPARK

<1 MILE FROM THE TRACK LONESTARKARTPARK.COM

Located outside Turns 1 and 2, this familyowned karting facility features a technical 16-turn layout for competitive racing.

BABE’S CHICKEN DINNER HOUSE

5 MILES FROM THE TRACK BABESCHICKEN.COM/LOCATIONS/ROANOKE

A regional staple serving hearty portions and bottomless sides, Babe’s delivers classic Texas comfort food.

LOS MOLCAJETES

5 MILES FROM THE TRACK LOSMOLCAJETES.COM

This casual Mexican restaurant is known for fresh spices, sauces, and its ability to accommodate large groups.

THE BRASS TAP CRAFT BEER BAR

5 MILES FROM THE TRACK BRASSTAPBEERBAR.COM/ROANOKE

With more than 150 beers on tap and extensive food options, this upscale sports bar balances variety with a lively atmosphere.

THREE WIDE BREWING

2 MILES FROM THE TRACK 3WIDEBREWING.COM

This two-level brewery offers distinct taproom experiences, a wide beer selection, and food crafted to pair with house brews.

CHICAGO

Chicagoland Speedway

THE WINDY CITY OVAL

NASCAR RACE WEEKEND: JULY 3–5, 2026

As NASCAR marks America’s 250th Independence Day Weekend, the return of Chicagoland Speedway places the sport back in one of its most important markets, blending history, renewal, and national celebration into a landmark race weekend.

First opening its gates in 2001, Chicagoland Speedway became home to Cup Series wins by Kevin Harvick, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch, Brad Keselowski, and Martin Truex Jr. After an 18-year run, it fell silent in 2020 as attendance trends, and the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the schedule.

After the success of NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race, the sport turns back to its roots with Chicagoland’s return after a six-year hiatus. With a future street race possible as early as 2027, this 20th Cup event stands as a defining moment for NASCAR’s Chicago presence.

FAN TAKE

Intermediate tri-ovals have paired well with NASCAR’s Next Gen car, and Chicagoland adds another 1.5-mile oval as demand for that style of racing rises.

Memorable moments span eras, Kyle Busch’s slide job over Kyle Larson in 2018, Kevin Harvick’s early dominance, Alex Bowman’s first Cup Series win in 2019, and the inflatable Tropicana Orange that disrupted qualifying.

With a short drive from the windy city, strong camping options, and Street Race-driven curiosity, Chicagoland’s revival should welcome both longtime supporters and first-time visitors.

Chicagoland Speedway

AROUND THE TRACK

Race Week Adventures

HAUNTED TRAILS

8 MILES FROM THE TRACK HAUNTEDTRAILSJOLIET.COM

Spanning 14 acres, Haunted Trails offers rides, arcade games, batting cages, escape rooms, mini-golf, and go-karts, making it a versatile stop for families or groups looking to add variety to race weekend.

ILLINOIS ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME

6.5 MILES FROM THE TRACK ROADTOROCK.ORG

Celebrating Illinois music legends like Cheap Trick, Buddy Guy, REO Speedwagon, Styx, and Chicago, this museum gives race fans a cultural stop that connects the state’s racing and music histories.

HEROES WEST SPORTS GRILL

10 MILES FROM THE TRACK HEROESWESTBAR.COM/JOLIET/

With dozens of TVs and an extensive tap list, Heroes West delivers a classic sports-bar experience, highlighted by generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, especially appreciated by veterans, first responders, and local regulars.

OLD FASHIONED PANCAKE HOUSE

9 MILES FROM THE TRACK OLDFASHIONEDPANCAKEHOUSE.COM

A longtime local favorite, this casual breakfast spot serves hearty omelets, waffles, skillets, and sandwiches, making it a reliable stop for race fans fueling up before a long day at the track.

DOUBLE “J” SPORTS BAR

11 MILES FROM THE TRACK DOUBLEJSPORTSBAR.COM

With the lively feel of a classic Chicago sports bar, Double “J” offers an energetic crowd, a spacious patio, and a relaxed setting where race fans can unwind after the on-track action.

FRITZ’S POUR HOUSE BAR

10 MILES FROM THE TRACK DOUBLEJSPORTSBAR.COM

A no-frills neighborhood bar, Fritz’s earns its reputation through strong specials, friendly service, and an atmosphere that regulars say feels authentic, making it a low-key but memorable race weekend stop.

BUCKETLIST SAN DIEGO

Naval Base Coronado

RACING ON THE WATERFRONT

NASCAR RACE WEEKEND: JUNE 19–21, 2026

NASCAR’s San Diego Street Race places stock car racing alongside San Diego Bay, delivering one of the most visually striking settings on the schedule.

Set against the backdrop of San Diego Bay, the NASCAR San Diego Street Race at Coronado Naval Base represents a rare fusion of motorsports, military history, and coastal scenery. Temporary roadways transform into a street circuit that emphasizes precision and control.

The presence of naval ships, aircraft, and waterfront views elevates the experience beyond traditional racing. The event’s limited nature makes it a once-in-a-generation opportunity for fans seeking something truly different. And if that is not enough of a hook, Coronado Naval Base is also home to Naval Special Warfare training, where U.S. Navy SEALs conduct some of their most demanding training.

FAN TAKE

This race feels different the moment fans arrive. The location blends patriotism, pageantry, and urban racing into a spectacle unlike any other NASCAR weekend.

With limited opportunities to experience NASCAR in this setting, the event carries urgency. Fans drawn to unique venues and memorable backdrops will find Coronado unforgettable.

AROUND THE TRACK

USS MIDWAY MUSEUM

8 MILES FROM THE TRACK MIDWAY.ORG

Docked on San Diego’s waterfront, the USS Midway Museum lets you walk the decks of a historic aircraft carrier, climb into restored aircraft, and take in interactive exhibits that fit perfectly with the naval setting around race weekend.

SAN DIEGO ZOO

13 MILES FROM THE TRACK SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

One of the world’s most respected wildlife parks, the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals across expansive grounds, making it an easy full-day play when you want a break from the track and a change of pace.

PANAMA 66

8 MILES FROM THE TRACK PANAMA66.COM

Set inside Balboa Park, Panama 66 pairs modern food with an artsy outdoor vibe, with music, conversation, and an easygoing patio scene that feels made for race-week downtime, whether you’re with a group or keeping it simple.

DINING IN THE DARK

8 MILES FROM THE TRACK DININGINTHEDARKEXPERIENCE.COM

This guided, blindfolded multi-course dinner is built to heighten the senses. It turns a normal night out into something you’ll talk about later, a fun switch-up from the usual race-week routine.

C-LEVEL LOUNGE

8 MILES FROM THE TRACK COHNRESTAURANTS.COM/C-LEVEL-LOUNGE

With views across San Diego Bay, C-Level Lounge delivers a waterfront night out that feels polished but not stuffy. It’s a popular post-race option when you want good atmosphere, a strong menu, and a place to linger.

HARBOR & SKY ROOFTOP BAR AND LOUNGE

7 MILES FROM THE TRACK HARBORANDSKYSANDIEGO.COM

Perched above downtown, Harbor & Sky delivers panoramic skyline and ocean views. Rooftop seating and cocktails create a memorable nightlife stop.