The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series will feature its first road course race of the season this Sunday with the DuraMAX Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. The event follows two opening superspeedway races held at Daytona International Speedway and EchoPark Speedway.
For the second consecutive year, the series will use the 17-turn, 2.4-mile layout at COTA, rather than the longer 20-turn, 3.41-mile track configuration that was used from 2021 through 2024. This track choice continues to influence vehicle setup and race strategy for drivers and teams alike.
How the Qualifying Format Works at Circuit of the Americas
Qualifying at this road course follows a clear process in which drivers are divided into two groups based on a qualifying metric score. Those with better (lower) scores compete in the second group, while drivers with higher (worse) scores qualify in the first group. Each segment is given 20 minutes on track to set their fastest times. After both groups complete their sessions, the times are combined to establish the full starting grid for the race.
Details on the NASCAR Starting Grid and Broadcast Information
Fox will broadcast live coverage of the DuraMAX Grand Prix from COTA starting at 3:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 1. Fans can watch the race by accessing the broadcast through various providers, including a free trial of FuboTV, ensuring they do not miss any of the race day action from Austin.
This event marks an important stage in the NASCAR Cup Series season, showcasing driver skill on one of the premier road courses in the country and contributing to the evolving championship standings as the series transitions from traditional ovals to intricate road racing circuits.
