NASCAR returns championship races to Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2026
- NASCAR confirmed the championship weekend will return to Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2026, ending Phoenix's exclusive hosting since 2020.
- Homestead-Miami Speedway previously hosted the NASCAR championship from 2002 to 2019 and is noted for its competitive racing and economic benefits.
- The rotating model for the championship venue is designed to provide fresh challenges and experiences for competitors and fans alike.
In a significant development for NASCAR fans and competitors alike, the sanctioning body declared that Homestead-Miami Speedway will host the championship weekend for all three NASCAR series—Truck, Xfinity, and Cup—on November 6 to 8, 2026. This announcement marks the first time since 2019 that the prestigious events will take place in South Florida, as the races had been hosted by Phoenix Raceway since 2020. The decision comes amid a new rotating model for determining the championship venue, allowing various iconic tracks to host the conclusion of the season. Homestead-Miami Speedway had been the go-to destination for NASCAR's championship weekend from 2002 until 2019, building a rich legacy in competitive racing. However, its reign ended with the move to Phoenix, which had heavily invested $178 million in renovations and enhancements to secure its position as the host for these high-stakes series. Despite the prior change, the return of the championship weekend aligns with the modernized objective of diversifying championship venues and enabling unique experiences for fans who follow the sport. NASCAR's decision to rotate the championship venue has generated excitement among veterans and new fans alike. Ben Kennedy, NASCAR's executive vice president, stated that this model would offer fresh challenges for drivers and allow fans to explore different racing environments. The Homestead event is projected to generate an estimated $350 million economic boost to the local area, further highlighting the significance of the championship weekend for the South Florida community. Looking ahead, NASCAR is committed to maintaining Phoenix as a vital part of its schedule, with two events planned for the venue in the upcoming years. The rotating nature of the championship weekends—similar to practices in other major sports—may influence how teams prepare for the final showdowns, as they adapt to the unique characteristics of different racetracks. While the 2026 championship at Homestead-Miami Speedway is assured, NASCAR’s leadership anticipates introducing alternative venues for future seasons, effectively rejuvenating the experience of crowning champions in exhilarating new ways.