Huge changes have hit the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series, and on the surface, this is the most ambitious reset the series has seen in years. A revamped Pro Series format and a brand-new qualifying ladder, replacing Road to Pro, signal a clear shift toward positioning the Coke Series as a true esports, not just NASCAR on a computer. But while some of these updates feel long overdue, there are deeper structural problems that could undermine the progress entirely.
The video breaks down why the schedule and format changes are largely positive, especially for accessibility and long-term engagement. At the same time, it raises serious concerns about driver compensation, team incentives, and the lack of meaningful marketing effort across the board. With teams, drivers, and the sanctioning body all falling short in different ways, the Coke Series risks remaining stagnant, even with better racing structures in place. This is a thoughtful and critical examination of where professional sim racing stands today, and whether these changes represent a genuine turning point or merely another missed opportunity.
Watch Also
The NASCAR Truck Series takes the week off this week while the O’Reilly Auto Parts and Cup Series continue their Westward march to Phoenix Raceway. So, whether you are going to be at the track or home, what does the forecast look like for the race weekend in Avondale, Arizona?
Before the OAP Series Race (2:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
During the OAP Series Race (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
After the OAP Series Race (8:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Before the Cup Series Race (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
During the Cup Series Race (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
After the Cup Series Race (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Note: This article will be updated with a more accurate and detailed forecast as the race weekend nears.
With COTA in the rearview mirror, the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series head to Phoenix Raceway for the first short track race of the 2026 season. This hub gives you everything you need to know before, during, and after this weekend’s races.
| Race Winner | TBD |
| Pole Sitter | TBD |
| Prerace | Entry List | Qualifying Order | Practice Results | Qualifying Results |
| Race Results | Race Results | Cumulative Report | Infraction Sheet | Groovy Gauge |
| Updated Standing | Driver’s Points | Owner’s Points |
| New and Notes | Weather Report | Race Storylines | TV Ratings |
| Race Winner | TBD |
| Pole Sitter | TBD |
| Prerace | Entry List | Qualifying Order | Practice Results | Qualifying Results |
| Race Results | Race Results | Cumulative Report | Infraction Sheet | Groovy Gauge |
| Updated Standing | Driver’s Points | Owner’s Points |
| New and Notes | Weather Report | Race Storylines | TV Ratings |
This article will be updated throughout the race weekend.
Three races, three wins, and three straight celebrations with Michael Jordan. History was made at Circuit of the Americas as Tyler Reddick opened the season with an unprecedented three straight victories, holding off Shane van Gisbergen in the Texas heat while chaos and strategy shuffled the field behind them. Here’s how it scored on the Groovy Gauge, powered by Lectric eBikes.
