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NASCAR's return to California remains uncertain, but West Region President Dave Allen has assured fans that the organization is committed to the market. The ongoing Cup Series season has been thrilling, with Christopher Bell achieving three consecutive victories, making history as the 19th driver to do so.
Auto Club Speedway’s Closure Leaves a Gap
Since 1997, NASCAR has hosted at least one race in Southern California each year, with the exception of 2021. However, the demolition of Auto Club Speedway has left a void in the region’s racing calendar. While 2025 will not feature a Cup Series race in California, discussions for a return in 2026 remain active.
NASCAR’s Commitment to California
Addressing the uncertainty, Allen told the Los Angeles Times:
“The market is extremely important to NASCAR. So we’re not abandoning the market. What we don’t have is a firm timeline yet. There are some things within the sport that need to get sorted before we can make some strategic decisions as it relates to what we’re going to build.”
Although no official plans have been confirmed, Allen assured fans:
“We’re going to do something. I just don’t know what and when yet.”
Temporary Track at Fontana: The Top Option
One potential solution is a temporary track at the former Auto Club Speedway site in Fontana. Allen identified this as the primary option, stating:
“That’s option number one. Obviously, we’ve been there for a long time. We still retain enough land to build a half-mile oval if we choose to do that. But we still need some time to sort some things out and figure out if that’s the right thing to do.”
What’s Next for NASCAR in California?
While the timeline remains unclear, NASCAR’s continued interest in Southern California indicates that the sport is working toward a return. Whether through a temporary track in Fontana or a new facility, fans can expect further developments in the coming months.
