Why Chase Elliott wants more Saturday night NASCAR races

Chase Elliott is pushing for a shift in the NASCAR schedule. The sport’s most popular driver recently argued for increasing the number of Saturday night races, citing fan preference and overall energy as the primary drivers for this change. While the current 2026 Cup schedule features only three Saturday night events, Elliott believes the timing better accommodates fans who otherwise face the pressure of returning to work on Monday mornings.

During a recent appearance on the Racin' With The Boys podcast, Elliott noted that Sunday night races often create scheduling friction for spectators. He pointed to a specific incident in Atlanta where a rain delay pushed the finish past 1 a.m. CT, which highlighted the logistical challenges for attendees. He views the Saturday night slot as a superior way to maintain momentum and atmosphere without infringing on the start of the standard work week.

Elliott emphasized that the environment under the lights on a Saturday offers a distinct experience, particularly at short tracks. His stance reflects a broader interest in preserving the tradition of night racing, which he claims has seen a decrease in frequency. With only five Sunday night races on the calendar this year, the discussion around schedule adjustments remains a point of focus for drivers concerned about long-term fan engagement.

Beyond the schedule, Elliott also touched on his perception of NASCAR culture, including his lack of enthusiasm for the movie Talladega Nights. While he enjoys the atmosphere of events like the Talladega infield, he advocates for maintaining a professional boundary. He suggests that the sport deserves a balance between high-energy entertainment and respect for the technical craft that drivers perform behind the wheel.