Denny Hamlin shared his perspective on NASCAR’s new 2026 Cup Series schedule, focusing on the upcoming debut of a street race in San Diego. The event is set to take place at Naval Base Coronado and replaces the Chicago Street Race, which had been held for the past three years but is now on pause with a possible return in 2027. Hamlin’s reflections highlight both a sense of loss over the Chicago race and cautious optimism for the San Diego debut.
Hamlin Expresses Mixed Feelings About Chicago’s Race Suspension
On his Actions Detrimental podcast, Hamlin acknowledged his preference for the Chicago Street Race, admitting he had hoped it would remain a staple in NASCAR’s calendar. Although NASCAR described the move as a pause rather than a complete cancellation, Hamlin suggested there was uncertainty about whether the event would return.
“I’m excited to go to San Diego,”
Hamlin said.
Certainly, if we were going to stay on the streets somewhere, I’ve advocated that I’d like Chicago. I think we should stay at Chicago. They’re going to work out whatever deal they’ve got with the city there. Maybe, hopefully. I wouldn’t count on it. I think it was more of a soft breakup than anything.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver
San Diego Seen as a Promising Alternative for NASCAR’s Future
While he expressed some regret over the change, Hamlin welcomed San Diego as a valuable substitute, particularly from a sponsorship and business standpoint. The return to Southern California offers opportunities for engagement with a robust local fan base and corporate partners.
“We’re back in Southern California again,”
Hamlin noted.
That should be good for our sponsors.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver
Hamlin admitted he was still learning about the new venue, especially given its reputation as a lengthy street course close to three miles in length. Despite the uncertainty, he remained upbeat about the race and the city.
“I’m going to stay positive about it because it looks like it’s going to be very cool,”
he said.
And certainly, the city is one that is a great place to go.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver
San Diego to Host NASCAR’s First Event at an Active Military Base
NASCAR’s historic event at Naval Base Coronado will run from June 19 to 21, marking the series’ first race on an active military installation. This three-day race weekend signals the sport’s return to Southern California, where racing had previously been held at the Clash at the LA Coliseum between 2022 and 2024.
NASCAR Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy expressed confidence that the new street race would be a standout event on the motorsports calendar.
“I think it emphasizes the fact that not only we can race literally anywhere in the world, but that we have some of the best and most versatile drivers in all of motorsports as well,”
Kennedy said.
“It’s the most diverse schedule that we have in our sport, and I would argue the most diverse schedule across all of motorsports when you consider the different amounts of track types that we race at.”
—Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice President
Implications for NASCAR’s Growth and the Future of Street Racing
The shift from Chicago to San Diego illustrates NASCAR’s willingness to explore new venues and markets while maintaining a varied race schedule. Hamlin’s cautious but hopeful stance reflects the wider sentiments among drivers and fans as the sport adapts to changing logistics and business landscapes. Bringing racing to an active military base adds a unique element that could attract increased attention both locally and nationally.
Looking ahead, the San Diego street race may serve as a testing ground for future events on unconventional circuits, potentially influencing NASCAR’s calendar and expansion strategies beyond 2026. Fans, drivers, and sponsors alike will be watching closely as the sport returns to Southern California with renewed enthusiasm and fresh challenges.