The anticipation is palpable as the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season shifts into high gear and racing fans across the nation begin to look ahead to one of the sport’s most celebrated summer stops — Sonoma Raceway. Known for its strategic road course, dramatic elevation changes and unique wine-country backdrop, Sonoma will once again welcome NASCAR’s elite from June 26–28, 2026, for a weekend filled with high-performance action and unforgettable experiences.
The green flag will drop across America in February as the 2026 NASCAR season roars to life for the Daytona 500, but it’s in Northern California that fans will see one of the year’s most compelling competitions unfold. Nestled in the scenic rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Raceway’s Toyota/Save Mart 350 on Sunday, June 28 marks the only Cup Series appearance in Northern California and delivers an iconic milestone in the mid-season schedule.
This year’s NASCAR weekend kicks off on Friday, June 26, with the ARCA Menards Series West, followed by the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series on Saturday, June 27. The weekend culminates with the prestigious 37th running of the Toyota/Save Mart 350 on Sunday, where the NASCAR Cup Series will challenge drivers’ road-course precision and race strategy.
“We’re thrilled to welcome NASCAR fans back to Sonoma Raceway for another can’t-miss weekend of racing,” said Brian Flynn, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Sonoma Raceway. “From Friday’s ARCA action through Sunday’s Cup race, this event captures the excitement, challenge and vibrant atmosphere that makes NASCAR in wine country a standout on the 2026 calendar.”
Beyond the on-track thrills, fans will find a complete weekend experience at Sonoma — including practice and qualifying sessions, interactive displays, family-friendly entertainment, and expansive viewing areas that take full advantage of Sonoma’s sunny summer weather and panoramic vineyard views.
Storylines to Watch in 2026:
Kyle Larson’s Sonoma Standard –
Few drivers have defined Sonoma Raceway in the modern era like Kyle Larson. The Elk Grove native has turned his home-state road course into a personal showcase, combining raw speed with an aggressive-yet-controlled style that fits Sonoma perfectly. In 2026, the question isn’t whether Larson will contend — it’s whether anyone can consistently knock him off his Northern California pedestal.
Tyler Reddick’s Quest for a Breakthrough –
Year after year, Tyler Reddick has shown he has the pace to win at Sonoma. Multiple top finishes have proven the Corning, California native belongs among the elite road racers in NASCAR — but the win has remained just out of reach. As the Cup Series returns to wine country in 2026, Reddick enters once again as one of the favorites, hungry to finally seal the deal on home-state soil.
AJ Allmendinger: Still a Threat When Left Turns Right –
No matter the season, AJ Allmendinger remains one of the most dangerous drivers whenever the Cup Series turns right. The Los Gatos, California driver’s road-course resume speaks for itself, and Sonoma has always been a place where his experience and finesse shine. In 2026, don’t count out “The Dinger” as a spoiler — or a headline stealer — once again.
Shane van Gisbergen vs. NASCAR’s Best–
As Shane van Gisbergen continues to establish himself in the Cup Series, Sonoma Raceway stands as one of the ultimate measuring sticks. The technical demands of the course suit his international road-racing background, but NASCAR’s unique rhythm and strategy add layers of complexity. Sonoma in 2026 could be a defining chapter in SVG’s evolution as a full-season contender.
Chase Elliott and the Road-Course Redemption –
Long regarded as one of NASCAR’s most polished road racers, Chase Elliott enters Sonoma with expectations every year — and pressure to match. With road-course competition deeper than ever, Elliott’s ability to outthink and outlast the field at Sonoma could play a critical role in his 2026 playoff positioning.
Playoff Dreams on the Line –
By the time the Cup Series reaches Sonoma Raceway in 2026, the playoff picture will be anything but settled. For drivers like Daniel Suárez, Alex Bowman, and Bubba Wallace, a strong Sonoma run — or a bold strategy call — could be the difference between racing for a championship or watching from the sidelines.
Tickets, VIP upgrades, camping packages and premium hospitality options are available now at SonomaRaceway.com or by calling (800) 870-RACE. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of one of NASCAR’s most eagerly awaited summer events.
