As NASCAR prepares to make its 2026 debut at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, driver Kyle Larson remains focused on the excitement of the event rather than the specifics of the new street course layout. The Hendrick Motorsports star welcomes the unique opportunity, highlighting the significance of racing at a military base in Southern California.
On July 23, NASCAR officially announced its return to Southern California with a landmark event featuring first-ever points-paying street races at the Naval Base Coronado. This marks NASCAR’s first official points race in the region since 2023, adding a fresh chapter to the series’ schedule.
During a visit to the naval base, Larson spoke with FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass about the upcoming addition to the 2026 NASCAR calendar. Despite the lack of track details, Larson expressed enthusiasm for the overall experience of competing in such a picturesque and historic setting. The combination of ocean views and naval history creates a surreal backdrop for the competition.
“I don’t know. I have no clue. I don’t even know. I haven’t seen any drawing or anything of anything yet, but I don’t really care what the course is. I’m just happy that we’re doing this, and I think it’s going to be a fun event no matter what. It’s a beautiful part of the country. You’re racing on a Navy base. This is pretty surreal.” —Kyle Larson, NASCAR driver
Uncertainty Surrounding the Naval Base Track Layout and Racing Conditions
Larson openly acknowledged the uncertainty about what the Naval Base Coronado street course will look like, but he remains optimistic about the racing it will produce. He reflected on how unpredictable, unconventional tracks often result in exciting and chaotic races, which fans and drivers alike tend to enjoy.
When asked about his expectations for the style of racing that might emerge from this new circuit, Larson shared a candid outlook on the potential challenges and excitement awaiting drivers:
“Yeah, I mean, I think, I don’t know. I mean, I think a lot of times the weirder and crazier the tracks are, the better racing we have. You know, a lot of times I think when we think things aren’t going to be right, it creates chaos and whatnot. And like I said, I have no idea if this is going to be a chaotic course or not. I’m just thinking of previous things. But, yeah. It’s going to be fun. Like I said.” —Kyle Larson, NASCAR driver
Details Emerging About the Historic San Diego NASCAR Weekend
NASCAR revealed that more information about the layout and specifics of the Naval Base Coronado circuit will be made available soon. The development of the track plan involves a combination of actual driving on the base and virtual simulations through iRacing, aiming to finalize the unique course design.
The San Diego NASCAR Weekend promises a packed schedule across three days, marking the first stock car races to take place on a U.S. Navy base. The Truck Series event is slated for Friday, June 19, 2026, followed by the Xfinity and Cup Series races on June 20 and 21, respectively, setting the stage for a groundbreaking motorsports weekend.
The Importance of Kyle Larson’s Support for NASCAR’s New Venue
Kyle Larson’s positive attitude toward the Naval Base Coronado race highlights the enthusiasm within the NASCAR community for new and challenging venues. His acceptance of the unknown elements of the track reflects a broader readiness among drivers to engage with fresh race formats that bring unpredictability and spectacle.
By embracing the Naval Base Coronado event despite uncertainties, Larson helps to build momentum and anticipation for the NASCAR season, especially in a market as historic and visually stunning as Southern California. This debut could redefine how street races are viewed by both competitors and fans, showcasing NASCAR’s evolving approach to expanding its footprint with unique and innovative race locations.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kyle Larson better than Verstappen?
A. Larson may not defeat Verstappen in F1, but he is the most versatile driver worldwide. Bianchi supports Larson due to his well-rounded skills. Larson succeeds in many different kinds of cars.
Q. What caused Kyle Larson to crash?
A. The day after the incident, FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass shared on X that Larson explained the crash happened because the axle broke. Larson stated, “The axle broke.”
Q. Who did Kyle Larson marry?
A. CONCORD, N.C. – Kyle Larson and his wife, Katelyn, celebrated the birth of their third child, Cooper Donald Larson, on New Year’s Eve. Kyle, who drives the No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, shared the happy news on social media on Monday. Cooper is now the youngest sibling to Owen, who is 8, and Audrey, who is 4.
Q. What disease does Kyle Larson’s daughter have?
A. The couple’s daughter, Audrey Layne Larson, was born on May 7, 2018. When she was only 18 months old, doctors found out she had alopecia. This is an autoimmune condition that leads to hair loss. Since that time, the Larson family has spoken out to raise awareness about alopecia. They use their platform to help others dealing with the same issue.
