Major NASCAR 2026 Schedule Updates | Mexico OUT, Chicagoland IN, and MORE?

NASCAR is shaking up its 2026 schedule again, and this time, it’s official: Mexico City is out. The international push takes a hit, but in its place? A potential resurrection of Chicagoland Speedway, a fan-favorite oval that’s been dormant in the Cup Series since 2019. According to The Athletic, the shift was influenced by scheduling conflicts, cost, and some underwhelming feedback from insiders and fans alike. While some are celebrating the reduction in road courses, others see it as a step backward in NASCAR’s growth strategy.

• Why did the Mexico City race get scrapped for 2026 despite a solid turnout and international interest?
• Can Chicagoland actually make a full-scale return, and what upgrades are needed to modernize it?
• Will this July 4th weekend slot hurt or help attendance and ratings?
• Is this just the start of even bigger schedule dominos falling, including North Wilkesboro or a possible return to Canada?

With Dale Earnhardt Jr. teasing more changes and rumors swirling about North Wilkesboro, Montreal, and even Rockingham, 2026 could be NASCAR’s most radical reshuffling in years. Chicagoland’s $4 million renovation plan shows they’re serious about making it stick, but the fans and TV numbers will ultimately decide its fate. One thing’s for sure — NASCAR’s trying to find the right blend of tradition, expansion, and spectacle.

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