Charlotte Motor Speedway Welcomes NASCAR Back to Oval Racing for 2026 Chase Weekend

Charlotte Motor Speedway Welcomes NASCAR Back to Oval Racing

The Charlotte Motor Speedway is making headlines as it prepares for its first fall NASCAR race weekend at the classic 1.5-mile oval in nearly ten years. On the Columbus Day weekend of October 9-11, 2026, racing fans will be thrilled to witness the much-anticipated return of the historic oval layout as part of NASCAR's Chase series. The trio of races will include the Bank of America 400, the Blue Cross NC 250, and the EcoSave 250 from the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.

For many motorsport enthusiasts, Charlotte's oval has been the backdrop for countless unforgettable moments in NASCAR history. The shift back to the oval layout comes after several years of racing on the ROVAL™, an innovative road course-oval hybrid that has certainly delivered its fair share of thrilling drama. However, a surge in fan enthusiasm surrounding the traditional intermediate ovals has paved the way for this notable revival.

Marcus Smith, the President and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, emphasized the importance of returning to the roots of the sport, stating, "Charlotte Motor Speedway has always been about innovations and opportunity... This feels like the time to bring the fall race back to the legendary oval at a place where NASCAR history is made every year." This move is not just a nostalgic nod to fans, but a strategic response to the palpable excitement surrounding oval racing among avid spectators and competitors alike.

Historically, the fall NASCAR weekend at Charlotte has been synonymous with high-speed battles and season-defining moments. The wait for the Bank of America 400 is finally over, as this will mark a significant return to the oval configuration that has hosted Charlotte's superspeedway event since its inception in 1960.

Kieth Cockrell, President of Bank of America Charlotte, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "...the return to oval racing and the Chase format in the Bank of America 400 will generate even more excitement for NASCAR fans this fall..." This spirit of collaboration reflects a broader commitment to nurturing the legacy of the event and the electrifying atmosphere it has cultivated over the years.

Fans can expect mesmerizing racing action as all three of NASCAR's national series will compete on this legendary track. The weekend's lineup of races is designed to deliver thrilling moments:

- Friday: EcoSave 250, CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (5 p.m.)
- Saturday: Blue Cross NC 250, O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (4 p.m.)
- Sunday: Bank of America 400, Cup Series (3 p.m.)

The return to the oval has been particularly well-received by drivers, with 2021 Cup Series champions Joey Logano and Brad Keselowski regaling the rich history and excitement witnessed at the Charlotte speedway. Keselowski noted, "Moving the fall Charlotte race back to the oval really brings the sport back to its roots... It's the kind of race our fans expect and deserve."

Chase Briscoe, who earned prominence as the first winner on the ROVAL™ circuit, also championed the decision to return to the classic 1.5-mile layout. He said, "I am pumped that we will be racing on the oval twice at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 2026... As a race in The Chase, I think it will be a great event to showcase the best of our sport and still provide great racing for the fans."

The upcoming fall race weekend encapsulates not just a drive for speed, but a celebration of NASCAR's heritage. Charlotte is not just a racing venue; it's a heritage site for motorsport, allowing fans the opportunity to dive into NASCAR history at locations like the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

As the excitement builds for the return of NASCAR to its historical oval, ticket sales have kicked off. Enthusiasts can now secure entry to this thrilling weekend through the official Charlotte Motor Speedway website. For those seeking the best value, NASCAR season ticket packages that encompass both the Coca-Cola 600 and the Bank of America 400 are available, boasting added perks like discounted tickets and free parking.

In this climate of revival, Charlotte Motor Speedway stands poised not merely as a site for races but as a custodian of NASCAR's timeless legacy. Prepare for an exhilarating fall as drivers and fans unite to cherish what promises to be a landmark event in motorsport history.