News Summary
NASCAR is set to host its first-ever race weekend in San Diego at Naval Base Coronado, coinciding with Father’s Day Weekend in 2026. The event will include races from the NASCAR Cup Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and Craftsman Truck Series. This unique event will celebrate the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary and features a 3.4-mile course with 16 turns, offering spectators breathtaking views of San Diego Bay. Pre-sales for tickets begin in late 2025, marking a significant collaboration between NASCAR and the military.
San Diego, California – NASCAR has made a major announcement, confirming its first-ever race weekend in San Diego, set for Father’s Day Weekend in 2026. Scheduled from June 19-21, 2026, the event will take place at Naval Base Coronado, marking a historic occasion for the organization and fans alike.
Details of the Event
The race weekend will feature participation from the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. This unique event is designed as part of a military-themed celebration that aligns with the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary. The course itself measures 3.4 miles, making it the longest track on the NASCAR schedule for 2026, and includes a total of 16 turns. This combination of high-speed straights and technically challenging corners also provides spectators with beautiful views of San Diego Bay and the city skyline.
Course Highlights
Among the notable features of the circuit are:
- The Ellyson Start-Finish Line: Named after Commander Theodore Ellyson, recognized as the Navy’s first aviator.
- Carrier Corner (Turn 5): Positioned between two active aircraft carriers.
- The Coronado Chicane (Turn 8): Expected to challenge drivers’ braking skills and precision.
- Runway Road (Turn 14): Located near the north end of Runway 18/36 at Halsey Field.
Activities Leading to the Race
The festivities will commence with Navy Community Day on Friday, June 19, which will be exclusively available to U.S. Navy members stationed at Coronado and a limited number of local residents. This initial event is designed to strengthen community ties and set the tone for the racing weekend.
Ticket Information
Pre-sales for the race weekend tickets will start on October 23, 2025, with public sales opening on November 7, 2025. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to watch the races and experience the unique setting of the Naval Base, which combines the excitement of NASCAR with the military backdrop.
Grandstands and hospitality suites will be strategically placed throughout the circuit, providing fans with exceptional views of both the race and the naval environment.
Unique Collaboration
This NASCAR race weekend at Naval Base Coronado represents a groundbreaking partnership between NASCAR and an active military installation. The organization anticipates that this event will attract tens of thousands of spectators, reinforcing the connection between motorsport and military appreciation.
In preparation for creating the circuit, NASCAR collaborated with iRacing, utilizing feedback from a previous successful street course in Chicago. This effort demonstrates NASCAR’s commitment to innovation and enhancing the fan experience.
Celebrating Naval History
This upcoming race weekend is projected to celebrate not merely the thrill of racing but also the rich naval heritage associated with Naval Base Coronado. With a unique combination of sports and military celebration, the event promises to be a memorable occasion for the community and visitors alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NASCAR Unveils Course for San Diego Weekend
San Diego to Host Groundbreaking NASCAR Race at Naval Base
Coronado City Council Honors Local Hero Kris Collins
Coronado City Council Meeting Set for Discussion on Key Issues
Coronado Community Events and Pleasant Weather This September
Additional Resources
- NASCAR: San Diego Race Course Revealed
- New York Times: NASCAR San Diego Race Course
- Fox 5 San Diego: NASCAR San Diego Course Map
- ABC 10 News: NASCAR Unveils Course Map
- Wikipedia: NASCAR
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NASCAR
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
