NASCAR Race This Weekend: 2026 Schedule, TV Channels, Start Times, And Streaming Guide

Finding the exact channel, start time, and streaming platform for the NASCAR race this weekend is more complex than in previous years. With the current 2026 media rights agreement fully active, live race coverage is split across four distinct media partners, alongside a dedicated network for secondary series.

To ensure you do not miss a single green flag, practice lap, or qualifying run, this technical guide outlines the complete broadcasting map, stream-access protocols, and technical track parameters for this weekend's Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Craftsman Truck Series events.

Deciphering the 2026 NASCAR Broadcast Landscape

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season features a highly segmented television and streaming distribution model. Unlike older broadcast agreements where viewers only needed to flip between two networks, the 2026 season divides the 36 points-paying races and exhibition events among Fox Sports, Amazon Prime Video, TNT Sports, and NBC Sports.

Broadcasting Rights Shift

The mid-summer portion of the Cup Series schedule features exclusive direct-to-streaming and cable-integrated broadcasts. Fans must transition from traditional broadcast networks to digital platforms during the summer stretch before returning to cable and network TV for the playoff run.

Understanding which media partner has the broadcast rights this weekend depends entirely on where the race falls within the 2026 calendar:

• FOX Sports (Races 1–14): Covers the opening portion of the season, including the Clash, the Daytona 500, and leading up to late spring. Events are split between local FOX affiliates and FS1.
• Amazon Prime Video (Races 15–19): Holds exclusive streaming rights to five mid-season races. These events are not broadcast on linear cable television.
• TNT Sports / Max (Races 20–24): Broadcasts five consecutive summer races on TNT, with simultaneous live streaming available on the Max platform (formerly HBO Max). This block includes the specialized in-season bracket tournament.
• NBC Sports (Races 25–36): Directs the final stretch of the regular season and the entirety of the 10-race NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. Broadcasts are shared between local NBC affiliates and USA Network.

This Weekend's Official NASCAR Race Schedule and Track Details

The following matrix provides the definitive schedule, track configurations, and broadcast assignments for the upcoming race weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway—one of the season's premier multi-series events.

NASCAR Xfinity Series and Craftsman Truck Series Broadcast Exceptions

While the Cup Series moves across four distinct parent networks, the supporting series maintain highly stable broadcast agreements throughout 2026:

• The Xfinity Series: Every single practice, qualifying session, and points race is broadcast exclusively on The CW Network. This over-the-air network is accessible via digital antennas and major live-TV streaming providers.
• The Craftsman Truck Series: Broadcast rights remain exclusively under the FOX Sports umbrella, with the vast majority of events airing on FS1 and select high-profile races airing on the main FOX network.

Live Streaming Options and Cable-Cutting Strategies for Motorsports Fans

If you do not have a traditional cable subscription, accessing the NASCAR race this weekend requires utilizing a verified live-TV streaming service (vMVPD) or a direct-to-consumer streaming application. Because the broadcast rights are highly fragmented in 2026, selecting the right platform depends on the current month of the racing season.

[ Determine Current Month in 2026 ] | +------------------------+------------------------+ | | [Feb - May: FOX/FS1] [Jun - Jul: Prime / TNT] | | - YouTube TV - Amazon Prime Video - FuboTV / Sling Blue - Max (with B/R Sports) - DirecTV Stream - TNT Cable App | | +------------------------+------------------------+ | [Aug - Nov: NBC/USA] | - Peacock Premium - YouTube TV / Fubo - Sling Blue (USA Network)

1. YouTube TV

• Channels Included: FOX, FS1, NBC, USA Network, and The CW.
• Pros: Unlimited Cloud DVR prevents missing green-flag starts due to local programming delays. Highly reliable multi-view feature for watching practice or qualifying alongside other sporting events.
• Cons: Does not include the mid-season Amazon Prime Video exclusive races.

2. Sling TV (Sling Blue Package)

• Channels Included: FS1, USA Network, and select local FOX/NBC affiliates (dependent on designated market area).
• Pros: The most cost-effective entry point for standard cable-channel coverage of NASCAR.
• Cons: Local channel availability is highly restricted by region. The CW is generally not available, requiring an over-the-air antenna for Xfinity Series races.

3. FuboTV

• Channels Included: FOX, FS1, NBC, USA Network, and The CW.
• Pros: Exceptional high-definition streaming quality with 4K capabilities on select marquee events like the Daytona 500.
• Cons: Higher monthly subscription cost and lacks integration with the summer Amazon Prime Video window.

4. Direct-to-Consumer Apps (Peacock & Max)

• Peacock Premium: Streams every NBC-broadcasted Cup Series race live, including the final playoff push. It is an excellent supplement to a basic Sling Blue subscription.
• Max (B/R Sports Add-On): Provides live simulcasts of the five summer TNT Sports races, complete with advanced in-car camera feeds and real-time telemetry overlays.

Key Track Metrics and Technical Factors Influencing This Weekend's Race

Understanding the performance dynamics of this weekend's track is essential for anticipating team strategies, tire wear patterns, and aerodynamic advantages. The intermediate 1.5-mile quad-oval layout presents unique technical challenges for the NASCAR Gen-7 (Next Gen) race car.

Aerodynamic Packages and Horsepower Specs

For intermediate tracks, NASCAR utilizes the standard high-speed aerodynamic rules package:

• Engine Output: 670 Horsepower target rating.
• Rear Spoiler Height: 4-inch short spoiler designed to reduce overall downforce, placing a higher premium on mechanical grip and driver control.
• Underbody Aerodynamics: A fully sealed carbon-fiber floor pan and rear diffuser designed to minimize dirty air, allowing trailing cars to run closer to the leader in multi-car drafts.

Tire Wear and Track Temperature Dynamics

The surface of a 1.5-mile intermediate track dictates tire compound selection by Goodyear. Track temperatures play a critical role in mechanical grip:

The Track Surface Thermal Effect

As track surfaces heat up under direct sunlight, asphalt expansion reduces micro-texture grip, causing cars to slide. This sliding increases tire tread temperatures, accelerating degradation. Teams must balance short-run speed with long-run stability by adjusting camber angles and tire pressure.

• Left-Side Tires: Feature a softer compound to maximize grip through high-banking corners (typically 24 degrees in turns).
• Right-Side Tires: Utilize a harder, more durable compound with built-in heat resistance to withstand the massive lateral load and centrifugal force generated at speeds exceeding 180 mph.
• Tire Fall-off: Expect lap times to drop by 1.5 to 2.0 seconds over the course of a full green-flag fuel run (typically 50–55 laps) due to tread wear. Pit crews must execute flawless four-tire stops to preserve track position.

Frequently Asked Questions About NASCAR Races This Weekend

How can I watch the NASCAR race this weekend if it is rained out?

If a race is postponed due to inclement weather, NASCAR typically reschedules the event for the following Monday morning or afternoon. Broadcast rights remain with the original network partner. For example, if a race scheduled for Sunday on FOX is postponed, it will air on Monday on either FOX or FS1, depending on programming availability. Live streaming options remain identical to the original broadcast listings.

What time does the pre-race show start before the green flag?

Pre-race coverage generally begins 30 to 60 minutes prior to the official green-flag start time listed on the schedule. During this window, networks conduct driver interviews, analyze engine grid configurations, and broadcast the national anthem and command to start engines. The actual green flag typically drops 15 to 20 minutes after the broadcast start time.

Why can't I find the Xfinity Series race on FS1 or USA Network anymore?

In 2026, the NASCAR Xfinity Series is broadcast exclusively on The CW Network. This represents a major shift from previous multi-network arrangements. To watch Xfinity Series practice, qualifying, and race events, you must tune in to your local CW affiliate over-the-air, or use a streaming service that carries The CW in your market.

Do I need an Amazon Prime subscription to watch NASCAR this weekend?

You only need an active Amazon Prime subscription during the mid-season summer window, which covers exactly five consecutive Cup Series races (typically held between late May and June). For the rest of the 2026 season, the races are broadcast on FOX, FS1, TNT, NBC, or USA Network, meaning standard streaming services or cable TV will suffice.

How can I listen to the NASCAR race on the radio this weekend?

Live audio coverage of every NASCAR race is broadcast via terrestrial radio affiliates and digital streams. The broadcast networks are split based on track ownership. The Motor Racing Network (MRN) covers all events at NASCAR-owned facilities and independent tracks, while the Performance Racing Network (PRN) covers events hosted at Speedway Motorsports-owned facilities (such as Charlotte, Bristol, and Texas). Both networks stream live audio for free on their respective websites, the NASCAR Mobile App, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90).

Whether you are watching from home via a streaming platform or tuning in through an over-the-air broadcast, staying updated on network changes is key to enjoying the 2026 season. Check your local listings, verify your subscription logins before the green flag drops, and prepare for an action-packed weekend of high-speed racing.