NASCAR celebrates Navy's 250th anniversary with street race on military base
- NASCAR is set to hold a street race on June 19-21, 2026, at Naval Base Coronado in Southern California.
- This event replaces the Chicago Street Race and is part of the celebration of the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary.
- The collaboration signifies NASCAR's commitment to innovative venues while honoring military service.
In June 2026, NASCAR will hold a significant street race at Naval Base Coronado in Southern California, marking a historical first for the sport as it takes place on an active military base. This event aims to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy, showcasing a unique collaboration between NASCAR and the military. The race will involve all three of NASCAR’s national series over a three-day weekend from June 19-21, with expectations of an enthusiastic local reception in San Diego, contrasting the mixed feelings observed during previous events in Chicago. The decision to move the race from Chicago to San Diego is part of NASCAR's ongoing strategy to explore unconventional venues and create new, engaging experiences for fans. NASCAR officials noted the importance of honoring military personnel while promoting their sport, a sentiment echoed by Navy Secretary John C. Phelan, who described the collaboration as a powerful tribute to shared values of grit and teamwork. This race is positioned as a further step in NASCAR's expansion strategy, tapping into new fan bases, especially in major markets that seek excitement and novelty. Preparations for the event are underway, with plans to design the course layout that accommodates the operational requirements of the naval base while still providing an exciting experience for fans and drivers. NASCAR and Sports San Diego are collaborating on this endeavor, and local leaders are hopeful about the positive economic impact the event will have on tourism and community engagement. This concerted effort underlines NASCAR’s commitment to innovation as it seeks to revitalize its brand and attract a broader audience. The race at Naval Base Coronado will not only feature a symbolic tribute to the Navy’s history but also showcase NASCAR's evolving landscape as it embraces creativity and risk-taking. NASCAR Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy expressed excitement over this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, indicating that hosting a race in a military setting aligns well with their goals of strengthening ties with the community and honoring those who serve the nation. The anticipation among fans and stakeholders continues to build as the details of the course and surrounding activities unfold in the lead-up to this unprecedented event.