It looks like the 2026 NASCAR season will be among the most thrilling in recent memory. There’s already a lot to talk about, including the return of Chicagoland Speedway, possible changes to the playoff format, and horsepower increases to 750 for some tracks. However, the new street race in San Diego is the main attraction.

This event, which is set against the backdrop of the Naval Base Coronado, promises to combine fast racing with stunning scenery and a touch of patriotism. It’s a unique spectacle for fans and an entirely new task for drivers. For recently crowned champion Kyle Larson, it’s even more significant. It will be a race that is a combination of his California heritage, the excitement of racing alongside an open coast, and the thrill of a new layout.

Kyle Larson raves about the San Diego-Sonoma 2026 schedule

Recently, NASCAR released a computer-generated virtual lap of the upcoming circuit. Kyle Larson, unfortunately, wasn’t part of the drive-through. However, when asked on the Rubbin is Racing podcast, he expressed excitement about racing on such a famous and historic location, calling it “one of the coolest NASCAR events, if not the coolest, ever.”

A combination of quick, tricky turns and an aesthetically spectacular setting unmatched in NASCAR is what fans can anticipate at NASCAR’s brand new track. However, what excites Larson the most isn’t just the race itself but the perfect lead-in it provides to the following weekend’s Sonoma Raceway event. “What I really love about it, too, is not only just getting to race at San Diego and being on that awesome facility, but like it leads into Sonoma the next weekend,” Larson said.

One of the most exciting and distinctive events on the itinerary is expected to be the 2026 NASCAR race at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado. The venue honors the U.S. Navy while providing a stunning background of downtown San Diego. It is situated on a 3.4-mile, 16-turn street circuit that winds through the active military installation.

The San Diego race, Anduril 250, is scheduled for June 21st, whereas the Sonoma race, Save Mart 350, is scheduled for the following week, June 28th. Larson, being an Elk Grove, California native, emphasized the unique opportunity for fans to explore California’s scenic Highway One, traveling from San Diego up the coast through San Francisco and reaching the famed Sonoma track. This back-to-back racing adventure along one of America’s most beautiful coastlines adds a compelling dimension to the 2026 NASCAR calendar.

For Larson, the San Diego-to-Sonoma stretch represents more than just two races. Instead, it’s a celebration of NASCAR’s growing West Coast legacy. With military pride, scenic beauty, and back-to-back road challenges, the 2026 schedule promises both spectacle and substance. And for fans and drivers alike, it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable California summer.

Jimmie Johnson’s emotional connection with the San Diego race

With the intention to participate in the first NASCAR race at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego in 2026, Jimmie Johnson is preparing for an emotional and momentous comeback to NASCAR racing. Johnson, who grew up only 20 miles from the military installation in El Cajon, California, finds great personal significance in this particular event.

His first Cup Series race in his hometown is a full-circle experience that combines excitement, pride, and nostalgia. The No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE will be driven by Johnson, a 50-year-old seven-time NASCAR Cup Series winner, for his team, Legacy Motor Club, with Carvana serving as the main sponsor.

Johnson expressed amazement that NASCAR managed to bring a race to the city, stating, “Being able to race in San Diego at this level feels like my career has come full circle. Starting out on two wheels, racing motorcycles throughout the West Coast, and now being able to race on four in the same region is something I never thought I would see. Additionally, my grandparents were military and are buried in Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery nearby the base, so it’s an honor to race there – this is going to be very special.” He sees this as a huge opportunity to connect with his community, the military, family, and friends. Truly, a lifelong dream come true.

Johnson has also hinted at a potential 2026 schedule expansion beyond the event in San Diego. He stopped racing full-time in 2020, but he still feels driven and competitive. He intends to try competing in the Truck and Xfinity Series events during the San Diego race weekend after finishing third at the 2025 Daytona 500.

Fans eagerly anticipate seeing Johnson back on the track and wonder what other races he might compete in next year, adding excitement to the ever-changing NASCAR landscape.