Phoenix Raceway: A Weekend of Motorsport Mayhem – NASCAR and IndyCar Collide in 2026
Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona, is gearing up for a massive motorsport event in March 2026, hosting both NASCAR and IndyCar series in a unique “Desert Double” weekend. This marks a significant return for IndyCar to the track, after a hiatus since 2018, and the first crossover event with NASCAR since 2023.
A Packed Schedule: From ARCA to NASCAR
The action kicks off on Thursday, March 5th, with ARCA practice and qualifying, culminating in the ARCA General Tire 150 race. Friday shifts focus to IndyCar, with practice and qualifying sessions. Saturday features the Good Ranchers 250 IndyCar race, a 250-mile event. The weekend concludes on Sunday with a 312-mile NASCAR Cup Series race.
IndyCar Returns to the Desert
The NTT IndyCar Series is back at Phoenix Raceway for the Good Ranchers 250 on Saturday, March 7th. Drivers will navigate the one-mile tri-oval track, known for its challenging dogleg and exciting passing opportunities. Preseason testing at the raceway in February has already provided glimpses of potential storylines for the upcoming season.
NASCAR’s Desert Double
Alongside the IndyCar action, NASCAR will likewise be well-represented. The schedule includes races for the Cup Series, XFINITY Series, and ARCA Menards Series, creating a comprehensive motorsport spectacle. The NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday will be a 312-mile contest.
Detailed Race Schedules
Thursday, March 5th, 2026
- 3:30 PM ET: ARCA Practice and Qualifying
- 6:00 PM ET: ARCA General Tire 150 (FS1)
Friday, March 6th, 2026
- 8:00 AM ET: IndyCar Practice
- 12:05 PM ET: IndyCar Qualifications
- 2:00 PM ET: IndyCar Qualifications
- 4:30 PM ET: IndyCar High Line & Final Practice
Saturday, March 7th, 2026
- 10:00 AM ET: IndyCar Practice
- 11:10 AM ET: IndyCar Qualifications
- 12:30 PM ET: IndyCar Driver Presentation
- 1:00 PM ET: Good Ranchers 250 (250 laps / 250 miles)
- 5:10 PM ET: NASCAR Driver Presentation
- 5:30 PM ET: NASCAR Race (200 laps / 200 miles)
Sunday, March 8th, 2026
- 11:55 AM ET: NASCAR Driver Presentation
- 12:30 PM ET: NASCAR Race (312 laps / 312 miles)
Note: All times are Eastern Time.
Phoenix Raceway: A Versatile Motorsports Venue
Opened in 1964, Phoenix Raceway has established itself as a versatile motorsports venue, hosting a wide range of racing series. Its one-mile tri-oval design and distinctive dogleg provide a unique challenge for drivers and exciting racing for fans. The track also boasts modern amenities and a scenic desert backdrop.
FAQ
- What series will be racing at Phoenix Raceway in March 2026?
- ARCA, IndyCar, and NASCAR will all be competing.
- When does the IndyCar race take place?
- The Good Ranchers 250 IndyCar race is on Saturday, March 7th, 2026.
- Is this the first time IndyCar has raced at Phoenix Raceway in recent years?
- No, IndyCar last raced at Phoenix Raceway in 2018.
Stay tuned for further updates and race coverage as the “Desert Double” approaches. Explore Phoenix Raceway’s official website for ticket information and event details.
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