Get ready, racing fans, because the 2026 NASCAR O'Reilly Series is revving up to be a season like no other! But here's where it gets exciting: Corey Day, a rising star in the racing world, will be taking the wheel of the No. 17 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet for all 33 events, marking Hendrick Motorsports' triumphant return to full-time competition in the series since 2007. And this is the part most people miss—this team has a storied history, including a championship win with Brian Vickers back in 2003. So, what can fans expect? Let's dive in.
Where to Catch the Action: Unlike some racing series that bounce around different networks, the NASCAR O'Reilly Series keeps it simple. All 33 races will air exclusively on the CW, following a schedule that largely mirrors the prestigious NASCAR Cup Series. This means you won’t have to hunt for channels—just tune in and enjoy the thrill of the race. But here's a controversial thought: Is this simplicity a missed opportunity for broader exposure, or a smart move to build a loyal fanbase? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Highlights of the Schedule: The 2026 season is packed with standout events. Kicking off on Valentine's Day, February 14th, at Daytona International Speedway, the series will crisscross the country, hitting iconic tracks like Atlanta Motor Speedway, Circuit of the Americas, and Phoenix Raceway. One notable departure from the Cup Series is the Easter weekend race at Rockingham Speedway on April 4th, a track that’s becoming a staple of the O'Reilly Series. And who could forget the July 4th celebration at Chicagoland Speedway? It’s a schedule designed to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Full Schedule Breakdown:
Regular Season:
- Feb. 14: Daytona International Speedway, 5 p.m.
- Feb. 21: Atlanta Motor Speedway, 5 p.m.
- Feb. 28: Circuit of the Americas, 3 p.m.
- March 7: Phoenix Raceway, 7:30 p.m.
- March 14: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 5:30 p.m.
- March 21: Darlington Raceway, 5:30 p.m.
- March 28: Martinsville Speedway, 3:30 p.m.
- April 4: Rockingham Speedway, 2:30 p.m.
- April 11: Bristol Motor Speedway, 7:30 p.m.
- April 18: Kansas Speedway, 7 p.m.
- April 25: Talladega Superspeedway, 4 p.m.
- May 2: Texas Motor Speedway, 3:30 p.m.
- May 9: Watkins Glen International, 4 p.m.
- May 16: Dover Motor Speedway, 4 p.m.
- May 23: Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5 p.m.
- May 30: Nashville Superspeedway, 7:30 p.m.
- June 13: Pocono Raceway, 4 p.m.
- June 20: Naval Base Coronado, 5 p.m.
- June 27: Sonoma Raceway, 5:30 p.m.
- July 4: Chicagoland Speedway, 5:30 p.m.
- July 11: Atlanta Motor Speedway, 7 p.m.
- July 25: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 4 p.m.
- Aug. 8: Iowa Speedway, 5 p.m.
- Aug. 28: Daytona International Speedway, 7:30 p.m.
- Sept. 5: Darlington Raceway, 7:30 p.m.
- Sept. 12: World Wide Technology Raceway, 7:30 p.m.
Playoffs:
- Sept. 18: Bristol Motor Speedway, 7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 3: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 10: Charlotte ROVAL, 4 p.m.
- Oct. 17: Phoenix Raceway, 7:30 p.m.
- Oct. 24: Talladega Superspeedway, 3:30 p.m.
- Oct. 31: Martinsville Speedway, 4 p.m.
- Nov. 7: Homestead-Miami Speedway, 5 p.m.
Final Thoughts: With Corey Day behind the wheel and a schedule packed with thrilling events, the 2026 NASCAR O'Reilly Series is shaping up to be a must-watch. But here’s a question to spark debate: Can this series challenge the Cup Series for viewership, or will it remain a niche favorite? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take!
