After years of fan speculation, passionate debate, and persistent rumors, it’s now official — the NASCAR Championship Weekend is returning to Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2026. The long-awaited move brings the sport’s title-deciding finale back to the South Florida track that many fans and drivers still consider the ideal venue for crowning a champion.
NASCAR made the announcement early Wednesday morning via a joint press release with Homestead-Miami Speedway and NASCAR leadership, calling the decision “a strategic return to a proven championship stage.” The three-day championship weekend will once again include title-deciding races for the Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Craftsman Truck Series, all under the lights in front of what’s expected to be a sold-out crowd.
Homestead-Miami previously hosted the NASCAR Championship Weekend from 2002 through 2019. Over those 18 years, the 1.5-mile track developed a reputation for delivering thrilling racing, multi-groove action, and championship drama that often came down to the final laps. Fans and drivers alike praised the track’s layout, progressive banking, and the way it rewarded talent, tire management, and bold strategy.
Since the move to Phoenix Raceway in 2020, many within the NASCAR community have voiced a desire to return to Homestead. While Phoenix brought its own unique style to the championship finale, critics argued it lacked the same energy, excitement, and passing potential that Homestead consistently delivered.
NASCAR CEO Steve Phelps addressed that sentiment in the official statement, saying:
“Homestead-Miami Speedway has always held a special place in our sport’s history. Its ability to produce championship-caliber racing is unmatched, and after careful evaluation and listening to our fans, teams, and drivers — we knew it was time to bring the championship back to South Florida.”
Homestead-Miami Speedway President Al Garcia called the announcement “a full-circle moment.”
“We’ve been working tirelessly with NASCAR behind the scenes to make this happen. Our fans have never stopped asking for the championship to return. In 2026, we’re bringing it home.”
Reactions from drivers were overwhelmingly positive. 2021 Cup champion Kyle Larson tweeted simply, “Let’s go!!! Homestead is BACK.” Denny Hamlin, a perennial title contender, noted, “This is the best track to decide a championship, period.”
The 2026 Championship Weekend will be scheduled for mid-November and is expected to feature expanded fan events, concerts, and special tributes to Homestead’s history. Ticket packages are set to go on sale early next year, with priority given to previous Homestead ticket holders.
With this bold shift, NASCAR is signaling a renewed focus on its roots — delivering high-octane racing at a track built for championship drama. The return to Homestead-Miami isn’t just a change of location; it’s a nod to the golden era of NASCAR finales, and fans everywhere are already counting down the days.
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