NASCAR Cup Series Returns to Kansas Speedway

Here's what fans need to know before attending this weekend's races

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the chaotic energy and motion of a NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway, with sharp geometric shapes and planes of color representing the cars, track, and surrounding environment.The upcoming NASCAR races at Kansas Speedway promise to deliver the same high-octane action and close finishes that have made the track a fan favorite over the past 25 years.Kansas City Today

The NASCAR Cup Series is heading back to Kansas Speedway this weekend for the 41st time since the track first opened 25 years ago. This will be the 27th Cup race at Kansas since the track was repaved in 2012. Fans can expect sunny skies and mild temperatures for both the ARCA Menards Series and NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series races on Saturday, as well as the NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday.

Why it matters

Kansas Speedway has become a staple on the NASCAR calendar, hosting thrilling finishes and memorable moments over the past quarter-century. As one of the few remaining intermediate ovals on the schedule, the race at Kansas often plays a pivotal role in the championship picture.

The details

The NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway this weekend will mark the 41st time the series has competed at the 1.5-mile oval since it first opened in 2001. In four of the past six Kansas races, the pass for the win came in the final two laps, including three last lap passes. Kyle Larson is the only repeat winner in the past 11 races at Kansas, having won three times, including last May when he beat Chris Buescher by 0.001 second in the closest finish in NASCAR Cup Series history.

  • The NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway will take place on Sunday, April 20, 2026.
  • The ARCA Menards Series and NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series races will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Kyle Larson

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who has won three times at Kansas Speedway, including the closest finish in series history in May 2024.

Chris Buescher

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who finished second to Kyle Larson in the closest finish in series history at Kansas Speedway in May 2024.

Brendan Johnson

The Grand Marshal for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway on Sunday, April 20, 2026.

A-10G, 303d Fighter Squadron

The unit from Whiteman Air Force Base that will perform the flyover for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway on Sunday, April 20, 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Fans can visit the Kansas Speedway website to purchase tickets for this weekend's races, including single-race tickets or full weekend experiences. Free general parking is available in the grass lots on a first-come, first-served basis.

The takeaway

The return of the NASCAR Cup Series to Kansas Speedway is an eagerly anticipated event for racing fans in the region. With the track's history of thrilling finishes and the promise of sunny skies and mild temperatures, this weekend's races are sure to provide an exciting experience for all who attend.