NASCAR is expected to make a major shift in its 2026 schedule by moving Championship Weekend for the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series to Homestead-Miami Speedway. This move would break from recent tradition, as Phoenix Raceway has hosted the season finale since 2020. Though the change hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, reliable sources suggest it’s happening, sparking both excitement and debate within the racing community.
Some fans are thrilled, while others are uncertain. The biggest questions are whether Phoenix is being completely removed from the playoff picture and whether Homestead is taking over for good or just temporarily.
The facts so far: Phoenix is not being eliminated from the calendar. It will still host two races a year, but it will no longer be the exclusive host of the championship finale. The change is not about poor attendance or logistical challenges—it’s more about the quality of racing. Critics say Phoenix’s flat, one-mile layout doesn’t consistently deliver the kind of intense, action-packed races expected at a championship event. For example, the 2024 season finale left fans feeling underwhelmed—there was a title decided, but the on-track drama was lacking.
Fans and drivers have voiced concerns about Phoenix’s layout, citing issues like limited passing opportunities and the heavy importance of track position. In contrast, Homestead has long been appreciated for its high-speed, multi-groove racing that allows for thrilling finishes and driver control. From 2002 to 2019, Homestead successfully hosted the championship race and built a reputation for delivering memorable season finales.
While NASCAR hasn’t committed to Homestead as a permanent replacement, assigning it the 2026 finale could be the beginning of a new trend. There are strong indications that the governing body may rotate the final race across different venues in future seasons—similar to how the Super Bowl or College Football Playoff changes locations each year. This approach would align with NASCAR’s broader push for schedule variety and enhanced fan engagement.
Homestead’s return for 2026 is seen as a significant move, especially since the city of Homestead and local officials are eager to make it a long-term fixture. The timing is also favorable—November weather in South Florida is ideal for racing, and the local economy is expected to benefit significantly from the event. Even though the race lacks formal government incentives for now, NASCAR’s willingness to invest in the event highlights its importance.
In conclusion:
Phoenix is not being dropped; it will remain on the schedule with two annual races.
Homestead is not guaranteed to be the permanent finale host, but its performance in 2026 could influence future decisions.
The move could signal the start of rotating championship venues, providing fresh excitement each season.
If Homestead delivers a thrilling race, it could very well become a fan favorite once again for the finale spot.
The main takeaway is that this isn’t about eliminating a track—it’s about enhancing the show. Now the spotlight is on Homestead to prove it deserves the crown.