Naval Base Coronado will host NASCAR's next street race
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NASCAR left Chicago for San Diego for the Cup Series in 2026. Photo: Logan Riely/Getty Images
NASCAR is bringing its street race to San Diego next summer.
Why it matters: The three-day, high-octane event could draw tens of thousands of spectators to Naval Base Coronado — the first active military base to host a NASCAR race.
Zoom in: The series of races will take place June 19-21 at Naval Air Station North Island, which will open to the public.
- The course layout is still in the works, but drivers will wind through streets and the tarmac, passing aircraft carriers and fighter jets along the roughly 3-mile track with ocean, mountain and city skyline views.
- It will be a celebration of the Navy's 250th anniversary and Father's Day.
The big picture: This race adds to the region's growing portfolio of major sporting events — like international soccer and Olympic surfing — that can drive tourism, traffic to local businesses and revenue for the city.
- Local nonprofit Sports San Diego, which puts on some of the city's signature athletic events like the Holiday Bowl, will assist with operations and promotion.
What they're saying: NASCAR's prestigious Cup Series will be "one of the biggest sports events we've ever had in the region," Sports San Diego CEO Mark Neville told Axios.
- Without a 70,000-seat stadium to attract a Super Bowl or arena for NBA or NHL events, they have to be creative in attracting major events to the city's venues, he said.
Between the lines: The weather, NASCAR's desire to return to Southern California, the city's media market, and the opportunity to partner with the military made San Diego a good fit.
- The Naval Base has previously hosted vintage car races on its tarmac and college basketball games aboard docked aircraft carriers.
State of play: NASCAR avoided building the downtown track on city streets, an intentional adjustment from its three-year stint in Chicago, where residents complained about noise, construction and street closures.
- Yes, but: The island poses its own set of logistical challenges with the Coronado Bridge and the Silver Strand as the only ways for cars to come and go.
- Moving the street race to San Diego won't be long term, as NASCAR plans to return to Chicago in 2027, but Coronado could still host future events.
What's next: Tickets will go on sale this fall, but fans can put down a deposit for seats now.
- General admission one-day tickets went for $99 in Chicago this year.
📧 Tell us: Are you amped for the NASCAR Street Race to come to San Diego, and do you have any concerns?