Live Report: NASCAR Fans Rally Behind Potential Shakeup for Championship Race Venue
In a rare twist, NASCAR fans appear thrilled about a major potential change hinted at by NASCAR COO Steve O’Donnell—a possible relocation of the championship race from its current home in Phoenix Raceway.
Since 2020, Phoenix has hosted NASCAR’s season finale with sellout crowds, ideal November weather, and competitive racing. However, O’Donnell recently suggested that NASCAR could consider a bold shakeup, exploring other venues to keep the finale fresh.
“Phoenix has been an incredible host city for the championship. The market embraces the sport, we see sellouts, and it produces strong competition on the track. So it’s going to be hard to replicate, if we were to move,” O’Donnell said.
Phoenix earned its status as the finale site after a $178 million renovation in 2018, delivering seven consecutive Cup Series sellouts since then. Before Phoenix, Homestead-Miami Speedway was the long-time host from 2002 to 2019 and remains a fan favorite.
However, O’Donnell made it clear NASCAR is open to broader possibilities:
“We would not limit something just to Miami if we were to rotate it. I think you’d have a broader look at venues that could host a championship. But short term, we’re in Phoenix, we’re extremely happy there, and we want to make sure that whatever we do, we continue to grow the sport when it relates to the playoffs.”
What Does This Mean?
For now, Phoenix Raceway is locked in as the 2025 finale host. But starting in 2026, NASCAR could shake things up, bringing fresh opportunities for fans across the country. The move has fans buzzing, as a rotating championship race would inject new energy into the sport while boosting local economies through hosting fees and municipal partnerships.
Fan Reaction: A Long-Overdue Change?
The fanbase, often critical of NASCAR decisions, seems largely supportive of this potential shakeup. Many have called for a rotating finale for years, and O’Donnell’s comments are being seen as a sign that NASCAR is listening to its fans.
One fan summed up the enthusiasm:
“I’m so glad that Steve Phelps and Steve O’Donnell are listening to what fans have been asking for. A change in the championship venue would be fantastic. An intermediate track would be the perfect championship site.”
Where Could the Finale Go?
While Phoenix delivers strong competition, the idea of other venues has ignited debate and excitement. Warm weather remains a key factor, given the championship’s early November schedule. Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with its mild climate and world-class entertainment, seems like a natural contender.
Other suggestions include a return to Atlanta Motor Speedway, which hosted the finale from 1987 to 2000. A fan asked:
“How awesome would an Atlanta championship race be? When was the last championship race held in Atlanta?”
Of course, some fans have let their imaginations run wild. One joked:
“He about to bring it to Daytona. THERE’S MUH FOUR-WIDE RACING FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP.”
The Debate: Competitive Integrity
Not everyone is fully convinced. One fan raised a valid concern:
“The way the series is currently managed, the actual championship outcome is ‘track dependent’ on which drivers excel on what track or type of track. Much as Reddick was able to win 2 Xfinity Series titles back-to-back at Homestead.”
This highlights the importance of choosing a track that maintains fairness and doesn’t disproportionately favor certain drivers.
What’s Next?
While Phoenix remains NASCAR’s finale home for now, the winds of change are blowing for 2026. Whether the championship lands in Las Vegas, Miami, Atlanta, or somewhere entirely unexpected, one thing is clear: NASCAR fans are ready for something new.
The possibility of a rotating championship venue has breathed fresh excitement into the sport—and for once, fans and NASCAR appear to be on the same page.
