NASCAR-owned series confirmed to race at legendary track in 2026

NASCAR has confirmed that one of its affiliated racing series will race at the historic Hickory Motor Speedway for the first time next season.

Ever since a buyout in 2018, NASCAR has owned ARCA and its racing series, including the ARCA Menards Series, as well as the ARCA Menards Series East and West.

Now, the stock car racing series has confirmed that the ARCA Menards Series East will kick off its 2026 campaign at the legendary short track with a 150-lap race on March 28.

The 0.363-mile oval has been the launching point for the careers of several NASCAR champions, including the late Bobby Isaac, Ned and Dale Jarrett, Ralph and Dale Earnhardt, and many more, and that tradition could now be set to continue.

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ARCA President reacts

Speaking as part of NASCAR's announcement, ARCA President Ron Drager echoed that sentiment: “Considering the tradition, history and longevity of Hickory Motor Speedway and ARCA, it’s especially meaningful to welcome Hickory Motor Speedway to the ARCA Menards Series East schedule in 2026.

“Hickory’s first race was in 1951 and ARCA’s was in 1953. Bringing the two together after all that time makes this race extremely significant.

Hickory Motor Speedway’s legacy is unparalleled and the number of drivers who have had success there and have gone on to success in the NASCAR national series numbers in the dozens.

"We look forward to seeing which East Series driver adds their name to the list of winners at Hickory.”

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2026 ARCA Menards East Series schedule

Here is how the 2026 ARCA Menards East Schedule looks in full!

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