NASCAR Plans Returns to Iowa Speedway, Chicagoland Speedway in 2026

NASCAR is set to return to Iowa Speedway in Newton for the third consecutive year in 2026, with the Iowa Corn 350 scheduled for August 9 and the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Hy-Vee Perks 250 on August 8. The 2025 race at Iowa Speedway drew around 30,000 fans, and ticket sales for the 2026 event have already begun. Additionally, NASCAR will make a much-anticipated return to Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois, for the July 4-5 weekend in 2026, featuring races from the Cup Series, O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, and ARCA Menards Series. This marks the first time in seven years that NASCAR will race at Chicagoland Speedway, with the Cup Series race slated for July 5 and the ARCA and O'Reilly series running on July 3 and 4 respectively. NASCAR executives and local officials expressed enthusiasm about bringing top-tier racing back to these venues, highlighting the strong fan support and economic benefits for the communities. The return of NASCAR’s Next Gen Cup Series cars is expected to enhance competition and fan excitement at these intermediate tracks.