The 2026 NASCAR schedule is anticipated to be officially released this week, but some updates have already emerged, including the introduction of a San Diego street course and Homestead-Miami Speedway being designated to host the championship weekend. Denny Hamlin addressed the leaked information on his Actions Detrimental podcast, expressing frustration over NASCAR’s unilateral decision-making without input from drivers or teams.
Hamlin clarified that the scheduling choices were solely NASCAR’s decisions, stating that the sanctioning organization does not involve drivers or teams in the process. Speaking on the leaks circulating about the upcoming calendar, Hamlin noted,
“Some of this schedule stuff is slowly leaking out. This is typical each year. The weeks leading up where they’re leaking this track is in, this track is out,”
He went on to mention the uncertain status of Iowa and changes like San Diego’s addition and the removal of the Chicago Street Race.
Regarding collaboration, Hamlin reaffirmed,
“I can assure you with one thing for certain, as much as they talk about collaboration — NASCAR doesn’t collaborate at all with the teams, drivers or anyone on the schedule. That’s their whole thing. We have nothing to do with it, no input, no nothing. Whatever it is, it’s what they came up with.”
Potential Adjustments in Track Lineup and Race Locations
Additional reports suggest the Chicagoland Speedway may return to replace Mexico City on the 2026 schedule. Motorsport journalist Jordan Bianchi from The Athletic also highlighted the growing possibility of the All-Star Race relocating from North Wilkesboro Speedway to Dover Motor Speedway.
If Dover acquires the All-Star event, North Wilkesboro could potentially host a Cup Series points race for the first time since 1996, a significant change since the previous event, the Tyson Holly Farms 400, ended with Jeff Gordon’s victory. This move would mark the return of NASCAR’s premier competition to the historic North Carolina short track.
Hamlin expressed support for a points race at North Wilkesboro, suggesting NASCAR reconsider the All-Star Race’s place on the calendar. Calling for relief amid a grueling schedule, he admitted,
“Why don’t we just give the damn teams a week off? Like, they are running us through the grinder. It is a grind trying to get to the racetrack every single weekend,”
“Definitely would enjoy another break, and I just don’t see the need of trying to force this.”
Implications for Drivers and the NASCAR Season Ahead
The leaks and rumored adjustments highlight ongoing tensions between NASCAR’s governing body and its competitors regarding scheduling decisions. Denny Hamlin’s outspoken critique underscores driver dissatisfaction with being excluded from the conversation, especially as they face intense demands throughout the racing season.
Should NASCAR move forward with these changes, including the potential relocation of the All-Star Race and the reintroduction of North Wilkesboro as a points event venue, it could reshape the competition’s rhythm and regional engagement. The prospect of an extra off week for teams may also influence performance and strategic planning in future seasons.
