NASCAR Announces 2026 Cup Series Schedule

Daytona 500 and Chase format details revealed for upcoming season

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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NASCAR has unveiled the 2026 Cup Series schedule, which will feature 36 points-paying races and an All-Star race in May. The season will once again culminate in a playoff-style Chase format to determine the champion. Bubba Wallace of 23XI Racing is the defending champion of the prestigious Brickyard 400 race.

Why it matters

The release of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule is an important annual event that generates excitement and anticipation among racing fans. The Daytona 500 and Chase playoff format are two of the most significant and iconic elements of the NASCAR season.

The details

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series will feature 36 points-paying races, including the season-opening Daytona 500 on February 16th. An All-Star race will also be held in May. The season will conclude with the familiar Chase playoff format, where a champion will be crowned after a multi-race playoff system.

  • The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season will begin on February 16 with the Daytona 500.
  • The All-Star race will take place in May 2026.
  • The season will conclude with the Chase playoff format to determine the 2026 champion.

The players

Bubba Wallace

The defending champion of the prestigious Brickyard 400 race, driving for 23XI Racing.

23XI Racing

The NASCAR team co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin that fields cars for Bubba Wallace.

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What they’re saying

“This one is really cool. To win at Indy, it's just such an honor.”

— Bubba Wallace (The McDonough County Voice)

What’s next

The full 2026 NASCAR Cup Series schedule, including race dates and locations, will be released in the coming months.

The takeaway

NASCAR fans can look forward to an exciting 2026 season that will feature the iconic Daytona 500, the return of the All-Star race, and the dramatic Chase playoff format to determine the series champion.