For five consecutive years, Phoenix Raceway is the nerve center of NASCAR’s season finale, hosting Championship 4 clashes under the blazing Arizona sun. But with fans demanding change and influential voices like Kevin Harvick calling for a rotation, NASCAR executives are finally starting to suggest a shake-up.
Although Phoenix has the infrastructure and history—bolstered by a lifting the 178 millions of dollars in 2018—many argue that it lacks the high-stakes thrill that a decisive title race demands. Enter the COO of NASCAR, Steve O’Donnellwhich did not rule out a rotational format:
“I wouldn’t want to limit something just to Miami…you would have a broader view of places that could host a championship.”
With NASCAR looking towards 2026 and beyondlet’s explore where the future of the Cup Series Finals could lie:
Las Vegas Motor Speedway: Diamond in the Desert
When it comes to shine, glamor and fanfare, vegas ticks all the boxes. A 1.5 mile oval with a proven track record, it’s located in the entertainment capital of the world, making it a perfect stage for a season finale.
Kevin Harvick—a two-time winner in Vegas—wholeheartedly supported him:
“I would love to see Las Vegas Motor Speedway host a championship race.”
With 80,000 seats and perfect November weather, Vegas would bring spectacle and drama to NASCAR’s biggest moment.
Homestead-Miami Speedway : Un Favori des Fans
Homestead has long been the sentimental favorite. From Tony Stewart’s epic victory in 2011 to Jimmie Johnson’s dynasty-defining moments, the 1.5 mile circuit offered unforgettable finals.
NASCAR fully owns the facility, making logistics easier. Furthermore, its progressive banking delivers thrilling racing across multiple lines—a key ingredient for a championship decider.
Other Dark Horses for the Final
- Charlotte Roval
Combining the challenges of road courses with high-speed oval racing, the Roval would provide a unique and unpredictable finale—one that rewards skill and strategy. - Nashville Superspeedway
A track with history and buzz, Nashville could leverage its country music culture to create a championship weekend like no other. - Atlanta Motor Speedway
Recently reconfigured, Atlanta functions like a superspeedway—high speed, pack racing and thrilling unpredictability. That’s a recipe for drama in a title race.
New Qualification and Training Changes for 2025
While the championship debate rages, NASCAR has already introduced qualifying in a single round for 2025, with the exception of superspeedways.
Key changes include:
- 25 minute workouts for better preparation on the track.
- Two qualifying rounds at Daytona, Talladega and Atlanta.
- Qualification on road circuit divided into two 20-minute sessions for separate groups.
- And 50 minute workout for the Daytona 500 to satisfy drivers looking for more time on the track.
The Balance Sheet
NASCAR’s desire to explore rotational places for the championship race signals a new era of fan engagement and innovation. Whether at vegashas Homesteador on a wild card track like Charlotte, the stakes are clear: NASCAR needs a final race worthy of its champions.
With changes to testing and qualifying already in place for 2025, the future looks brighter—and a little bolder—for America’s favorite motorsport.
