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NASCAR and Pentagon Agree to Continue Races on Active Military Bases

The deal signals planned expansion into new regional markets requiring major logistics, security and construction work to make temporary circuits usable.

Aug 23, 2026; Washington, D.C., USA; Ed Carpenter Racing driver Alexander Rossi (20) races during the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. on the street circuit at National Mall. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • NASCAR confirmed a multi-year arrangement with the Department of Defense and announced a return to Naval Base Coronado on August 1, 2027 with the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series scheduled the day before.
  • The sanctioning body plans to rotate additional military-installation races beginning in 2028 and is jointly evaluating candidate bases for physical and operational feasibility.
  • Coronado served as the proof of concept with a 3.4-mile, 16-turn temporary course built from base roads and runways that showed the model can work but needs heavy planning.
  • Officials say site selection will hinge on installation footprint, usable roads or runways, fan access and strict security protocols, and proposals for Space Force sites remain speculative because of unique logistical and mission-related constraints.
  • The program could expand NASCAR’s reach and offer patriotic pageantry for service members and local markets, but it also increases operational strain on bases and race teams so future announcements will focus on selected sites and readiness timelines.