NASCAR Returns to Historic Rockingham Speedway

Fans gear up for Easter weekend races at the legendary North Carolina track.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:07am

A cubist-style painting depicting a NASCAR race at Rockingham Speedway, with the cars and track broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors.The return of NASCAR to the historic Rockingham Speedway promises an exhilarating display of speed and skill on the challenging oval.Rockingham Today

NASCAR is heading back to Rockingham Speedway in North Carolina for a highly anticipated Easter weekend doubleheader. The historic track, which hosted NASCAR races from 1965 to 2004, is making a comeback after being off the schedule for over 20 years. Fans are excited to see the return of racing action at the legendary 'Rock' as the NASCAR Truck Series and Cup Series both take to the challenging oval.

Why it matters

Rockingham Speedway holds a special place in NASCAR lore, with its unique egg-shaped layout and demanding racing surface. The track's return to the schedule is seen as a win for longtime fans who have missed the high-speed thrills of the 'Rock'. It also provides an opportunity for newer fans to experience the history and tradition of one of NASCAR's most iconic venues.

The details

The NASCAR Truck Series will kick off the Easter weekend doubleheader on Saturday, April 5th, followed by the NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, April 6th. Both events will feature full fields of drivers competing on Rockingham's challenging 1-mile oval, which is known for its tight corners and abrupt banking changes that put a premium on car control and driver skill.

  • The NASCAR Truck Series race is scheduled for Saturday, April 5th.
  • The NASCAR Cup Series race will take place on Sunday, April 6th.

The players

Rockingham Speedway

A historic 1-mile oval racetrack located in Rockingham, North Carolina that hosted NASCAR races from 1965 to 2004 before being removed from the schedule.

NASCAR

The premier stock car racing organization in the United States, sanctioning races for the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, and NASCAR Truck Series.

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What they’re saying

“Rockingham is one of those special tracks that every driver wants to win at. The history and challenge of the place is unmatched, and I can't wait to see the fans pack the stands again.”

— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Driver

“It's going to be an emotional return to the Rock. This track means so much to the sport and the fans, and we're honored to be a part of bringing it back to life.”

— Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Senior Vice President of Racing Development

What’s next

NASCAR will continue to monitor ticket sales and fan interest in the Rockingham races, with the possibility of adding more events at the historic track in future seasons.

The takeaway

The return of NASCAR racing to Rockingham Speedway represents an exciting chapter in the sport's history, reconnecting with its roots and providing fans with the opportunity to experience the thrill of competition at one of the most iconic venues in motorsports.