NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. expressed surprise over the rumored shift of the 2026 NASCAR All-Star race from North Wilkesboro Speedway to Dover International Speedway. The leaked NASCAR schedule indicating this change sparked widespread attention, with Earnhardt Jr. also agreeing with Denny Hamlin’s perspective on the challenges Dover presents for such a marquee event. This change unfolds as fans eagerly await NASCAR’s official schedule release this year.
The 2026 NASCAR season schedule leak revealed a number of upcoming race venues, but the relocation of the All-Star race was the most unexpected detail. North Wilkesboro, a historic track, was set to hold the event, but the speculation points to Dover—known for its concrete surface and demanding one-mile layout—now taking the spotlight for the All-Star festivities.
Speaking on his podcast, Dale Jr Download, Dale Jr. shared his thoughts on how unusual the decision is, emphasizing the complexities behind the move.
“There’s a lot of reasons why Dover is going to be an all star race. It isn’t just the decision of one person or one business or one entity. NASCAR would want to improve the networks, have a ton of leverage on really how that works out. I am shocked honestly, that they were even able to switch Wilkesboro and Dover. I didn’t think it was possible. I heard about this probably and month or two ago. I never thought that they would make it the All Star race because number one doesn’t have lights, and it’s Dover.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
Backing Denny Hamlin’s Viewpoint on Dover’s Suitability
Dale Earnhardt Jr. further supported Denny Hamlin’s opinion regarding the race structure at Dover. Hamlin had pointed out that the track’s nature demands extended green-flag runs for racing to develop properly, which may conflict with the typically short, high-intensity segments of an All-Star race.
“Denny had such a great point on his show, Denny said “man you know dover needs 400 laps to have a chance to be a good show”. The All Star race are quick segments. You know 20-30 or whatever it is. Quick little you know stages and a 30 lap run at Dover is not going to be that compelling but I’m as confused or perplexed I guess as I am about that All Star race.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
Considering Dover‘s typical racing style involves longer runs without many passing opportunities early on, the short stages of the All-Star race might not showcase the track at its best. Still, the decision seems to be motivated by broader strategic interests in NASCAR’s schedule planning and TV network considerations.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Ongoing Involvement in Racing
Though retired from full-time racing in 2017, Dale Earnhardt Jr. remains closely connected to motorsports, now serving as a part-time crew chief for Connor Zilisch in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Earnhardt Jr., who amassed 26 career NASCAR Cup Series wins, frequently participates in the CARS Tour and other grassroots racing events, demonstrating his ongoing passion for the sport.
Earnhardt’s Thoughts on Returning to Racing Behind the Wheel
Recently active in the CARS Tour at Anderson Motor Speedway, Earnhardt Jr. discussed his attachment to racing and his limited but enjoyable returns to the driver’s seat. He appreciates the excitement and camaraderie of grassroots competition, even as his primary focus shifts toward mentoring and other racing roles.
“It’s hard to be specific, you know, I get to do this, I mean I do this because it’s fun, I don’t need or have to do it, I love the tour, I love this type of racing and I want to be around it and maybe you could put yourself in my shoes with your line of work or whatever it is you’re passionate about, but like if you went to an event and knew you could go to cover it, but you decided just to go to be a spectator, you might regret not being there to cover it.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
“So I come here and I’m like, man, what if I showed up and I didn’t drive, I might wish I would have raced, right? So I’m trying to push myself to run a little bit more and we run about four races a year, that’s pretty good for me.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Hall of Famer
Earnhardt Jr. is scheduled to compete in a Late Model Stock Car race on August 29, indicating his desire to continue experiencing the thrill of racing firsthand even sporadically.
What This Means for NASCAR and the Future of the All-Star Race
The relocation of the All-Star race to Dover signals a significant shift in NASCAR’s event strategy. While longstanding races at North Wilkesboro hold sentimental value, Dover’s selection could reflect NASCAR’s efforts to enhance viewership and leverage track facilities, despite some fan and expert confusion. Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s candid remarks highlight both the uncertainty around this decision and the complexities involved in adapting to evolving motorsport landscapes.
With the next NASCAR season still months away, more details on the complete 2026 schedule and its impact on drivers, teams, and fans will likely emerge soon. Meanwhile, Earnhardt Jr.’s reflections remind the racing community to weigh tradition alongside innovation when shaping the future of the sport.
