Kevin Harvick Predicts Chaos at Atlanta NASCAR Race

NASCAR veteran says upcoming race will be the "coolest" on the schedule.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 9:39am

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NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick believes the upcoming Cup Series race at Atlanta's EchoPark Speedway will feature a lot of excitement and carnage. Harvick explained that the track's repaving in 2021 has led to a style of racing similar to Superspeedways, with drivers needing more downforce and grip to navigate the corners. Despite initially thinking the changes were "the dumbest thing," Harvick now finds the Atlanta race to be the "coolest" on the schedule.

Why it matters

Atlanta Motor Speedway is a historic NASCAR track, hosting two Cup Series races per season. Harvick's predictions of chaos and excitement at the upcoming race highlight the evolving nature of NASCAR racing and the challenges drivers face on the reconfigured Atlanta track.

The details

The Atlanta track was repaved in 2021, narrowing the surface and producing a Superspeedway-style of racing. Harvick explained that drivers will need more downforce and grip to navigate the corners, leading to an unpredictable and thrilling race. Despite initially being critical of the changes, Harvick now finds the Atlanta race to be one of the most compelling on the NASCAR schedule.

  • The NASCAR Cup Series race at Atlanta's EchoPark Speedway is scheduled for Sunday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Kevin Harvick

A veteran NASCAR driver with 51 career Cup Series victories, including three wins at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

EchoPark Speedway

The official name of Atlanta Motor Speedway, which was repaved in 2021 to produce a Superspeedway-style of racing.

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What they’re saying

“Atlanta is going to be more of the same as far as carnage, but totally different style race. They're going to put more downforce in the car. Same package as far as the rules go. But they'll run the cars way different to make more downforce because you need more grip to get through the corners.”

— Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Driver

“You just shake your head and say, 'Man, I can't believe this is happening.' It's pretty crazy when you think about. I've been very lucky to drive cars for a living.”

— Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Driver

What’s next

Fans and motorsports enthusiasts will be eager to see if Harvick's predictions of chaos and excitement come true at the upcoming Atlanta NASCAR race on February 23, 2026.

The takeaway

Harvick's comments highlight the evolving nature of NASCAR racing and the challenges drivers face on the reconfigured Atlanta Motor Speedway. The upcoming race promises to be a thrilling event that showcases the skill and adaptability of NASCAR's top competitors.