NASCAR has announced that the 2026 All-Star Race will take place at Dover Motor Speedway, marking the first time this event is held on the one-mile concrete oval known as “The Monster Mile.” This shift has sparked debate, particularly from seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, who voiced his concerns about the suitability of Dover as a venue for the high-stakes exhibition.
The NASCAR All-Star Race is unique in that it carries no points or playoff implications, focusing instead on fast-paced competition and driver bravado. Since its inception in 1985 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the race has moved among several tracks—including Atlanta, Texas, Bristol, and recently North Wilkesboro—each adding its own characteristics to the spectacle.
Johnson, known for his no-nonsense perspective, expressed his doubts during an episode of the “Never Settle” podcast, stating,
“I’m scratching my head on that one,”
and adding,
“not the type of venue the All-Star Race will shine at.”
He explained that the All-Star Race is traditionally designed to encourage chaos, drama, and aggressive driving, elements that Dover’s layout and racing style do not naturally support.
Johnson highlighted that Dover’s narrow, high-speed confines demand precision and caution, limiting the risk-taking and “bump-and-run” tactics that fans have come to expect from the All-Star event. The transition also sidelines North Wilkesboro Speedway, which revitalized the race’s short-track appeal and energized the fanbase in recent times.
Addressing the prize money, Johnson questioned the current financial incentive, saying,
“I mean there’s a million on the line. Should be five.”
He suggested that the reward needs to be significantly higher to motivate the drivers to push beyond their usual limits, otherwise the All-Star Race risks becoming less thrilling.
His critique goes beyond the location; it touches on the identity of the All-Star Race itself, stressing the need for a spectacle that stands apart from regular NASCAR events and consistently excites fans and drivers alike. For Johnson, Dover’s characteristics make it a less fitting place for the event’s intended excitement and unpredictability.
Jimmie Johnson’s Remarkable Record at Dover Motor Speedway
Despite his reservations about Dover’s suitability for the All-Star Race, Jimmie Johnson’s history at the track is extraordinary. Since his first win there in 2002, Johnson has amassed 11 victories at the renowned “Monster Mile,” a record no other driver has matched. His success over nearly two decades has become a defining part of his legacy.
Dover’s one-mile concrete oval is known for its demanding conditions, including steep banking and a concrete surface that punishes small errors. Johnson’s consistent ability to find speed on extended green-flag runs, manage tire wear effectively, and navigate through traffic underlines his technical skill and tactical intelligence on this challenging track.
His wins include four spring races (2002, 2009, 2012, 2014) and four fall races (2005, 2010, 2013, 2017), along with numerous memorable duels that earned him the nickname “King of Dover.” One standout moment was the 2009 AAA 400, where Johnson led an astonishing 271 out of 400 laps, a display of speed, endurance, and focus that many fans regard as his finest performance.
Even after stepping away from full-time competition, Johnson’s 11 victories remain untouchable at Dover, underscoring his mastery of a circuit known both for its challenges and for separating great drivers from the rest. His dominance at this track reflects not only physical skill but also mental acuity and adaptability to a surface notorious among NASCAR competitors.
Johnson’s expertise at Dover gives his criticism added weight, as he fully grasps the nuances that make the venue electrifying yet unforgiving. This deep understanding informs his view that Dover’s demanding nature runs counter to the freer, more aggressive style expected in an All-Star Race format.
The Future of NASCAR’s All-Star Race and Its Impact
The decision to stage the 2026 NASCAR All-Star Race at Dover Motor Speedway represents a notable shift in the event’s history, moving away from the short tracks and more open venues that have previously offered dramatic racing and fan engagement. Johnson’s reservations highlight the broader challenge NASCAR faces in balancing tradition, excitement, and venue selection to keep the race relevant and thrilling.
For drivers, fans, and stakeholders, the selection of Dover raises questions about how the race’s identity will evolve. The risk-averse nature of racing on “The Monster Mile” may reduce the bold moves and collisions that have defined past editions, while the current prize money may not provide sufficient motivation to offset this conservatism.
As a celebrated figure with firsthand success at Dover, Jimmie Johnson’s perspectives signal a potential disconnect between NASCAR’s decisions and the expectations of its core audience. How the event unfolds in 2026 will likely influence future venue choices and prize structures to ensure the All-Star Race maintains its reputation as a unique, must-watch NASCAR spectacle.
