SAN DIEGO — NASCAR is in advanced talks to bring a Cup Series street race to the San Diego metro area as early as 2026, according to multiple reports and industry sources.
The proposed race would mark NASCAR’s second foray into modern street racing, following the success of its Chicago event, and would help fill a void in Southern California after the closure of Auto Club Speedway in Fontana in 2023.
Negotiations between NASCAR and Sports San Diego are ongoing, with a formal announcement possible by July, pending final agreements. The potential race would wind through downtown streets, with the scenic Pacific Ocean providing a striking backdrop.
Adding a San Diego street race would align with NASCAR’s push to bring its product to new urban audiences. It is unclear how the event would impact the Cup Series schedule, which currently features 36 points-paying races and two exhibition events. NASCAR’s contract with Chicago runs through the 2025 season, raising the possibility that San Diego could replace it or be added as an additional street event.
Officials from NASCAR and Sports San Diego declined to comment on the negotiations.
If finalized, the San Diego event would give NASCAR a major presence in Southern California once again and continue its broader effort to modernize and expand the Cup Series calendar.