NASCAR is putting the final pieces in place for the 2027 Cup Series schedule. Industry sources suggest significant changes are ahead for the playoffs, with Bristol Motor Speedway moving out of the Chase and back to its traditional August date. This shift allows the track to avoid direct competition with the college football season. Other tracks leaving the postseason include Darlington and Gateway, while Richmond, New Hampshire, and Watkins Glen are expected to step in to fill those spots.
The industry is also closely watching the return of the San Diego race at Naval Base Coronado. After a successful debut this year, the event appears headed for a return in August 2027. Despite the potential for decreased novelty in its second year, the logistical success and sponsor interest make a repeat appearance likely.
Meanwhile, the future of the Chicago Street Race remains in a state of flux. While negotiations between league officials and the city have been productive, funding hurdles persist. The current plan aims for a return to the downtown course during the Amazon Prime broadcast window, though alternatives like Chicagoland Speedway have not been entirely removed from the conversation.
Elsewhere, the search for an All-Star Race host continues. North Wilkesboro Speedway has emerged as the frontrunner for the event, as Speedway Motorsports seeks to balance its schedule. Dover is expected to hold a points-paying race, shifting the focus to where the non-points exhibition can be placed. Finally, the outlook for Rockingham Speedway is bleak. Due to ongoing instability in track ownership and financial challenges, the venue is currently off the table for national series races in 2027.