Championship Vibes in Miami? Let’s Talk Homestead’s Comeback!

NASCAR is reportedly set to bring its championship finale back to Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2026, marking a return to a venue that many fans and drivers consider the ideal stage for crowning a champion. Multiple sources have indicated that Homestead will host the season-ending races for the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series, replacing Phoenix Raceway, which has held the finale since 2020. 

A Return to a Fan-Favorite Finale

From 2002 to 2019, Homestead-Miami Speedway served as the championship venue, earning praise for its unique 1.5-mile layout that promotes multiple racing grooves and driver skill. The track’s design allows for side-by-side racing and strategic tire management, often leading to thrilling finishes. Its location in South Florida also provides favorable weather conditions for a November finale.

Drivers have expressed support for the move. Joe Gibbs Racing’s Denny Hamlin, a three-time winner at Homestead, noted, “I’d just like to see it a part of that because we just talked about how the driver makes a bigger difference at this race track than the car.” Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney added, “Do I think the championship race should rotate between a few tracks? Yeah. And this should be one of them. This place puts on a … .” 

A One-Year Return?

While the return to Homestead is exciting, reports suggest that the 2026 finale may be a one-year arrangement. According to The Athletic’s Jordan Bianchi, the championship race is expected to move to another venue in 2027, indicating NASCAR’s interest in rotating the finale among different tracks.

Fan and Industry Reaction

The potential return to Homestead has been met with enthusiasm from fans and industry insiders alike. The track’s reputation for producing competitive and entertaining races makes it a popular choice for the season finale. As NASCAR continues to evolve its schedule, the inclusion of Homestead in the championship rotation is seen as a positive step toward enhancing the sport’s appeal.

An official announcement regarding the 2026 championship weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway is expected in the coming weeks. In the meantime, fans can look forward to the possibility of seeing the sport’s top drivers battle for the title at a track known for delivering memorable moments.