Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s chief venue officer, recently discussed the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado, highlighting the unique three-mile course planned for next year. The track will include turns near an aircraft carrier, a helicopter, and possibly part of an F-18, with additional sections featuring the naval base’s tarmac and runway area, incorporating chicanes or quick turns. Although the track design isn’t finalized, Kennedy has engaged drivers using the iRacing simulator to help shape the course.
Scheduled for June 19-21, this event marks NASCAR’s first race at a military base, aligning with the US Navy’s 250th anniversary celebration. Kennedy noted the wide streets and varied road widths on the base, offering excellent opportunities for passing. The course is expected to be relatively flat with 10-15 turns, featuring slight elevation changes near the bay area.
Seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, who grew up near San Diego, expressed excitement about the venue and the race, despite not knowing all the track’s challenges yet. Current Cup champion Ryan Branny sounded optimistic about racing at such a prestigious location and acknowledged the unique atmosphere created by the presence of aircraft and naval personnel. All three NASCAR National Series will compete on the track, with the final layout to be confirmed this fall.
Kyle Larson, the 2021 Cup champion, conveyed his eagerness for the event regardless of the track layout, emphasizing the thrill of racing in a unique and beautiful setting like a naval base. He also suggested that unconventional tracks often lead to exciting and unpredictable races. While it might be difficult to design a course that limits the dominance of current road racing star Schoen Vangisbergen, this new race is anticipated to bring fresh challenges and excitement to the series.
Bob Pokras, a seasoned motorsports journalist, covers NASCAR and INDYCAR for Fox Sports and offers insights into this significant upcoming event.
Fan Take: This race at Naval Base Coronado represents a thrilling new chapter for NASCAR, blending the sport’s high-speed excitement with a historic military backdrop. It not only honors the US Navy’s milestone but also promises a fresh and challenging course that could shake up the competition and captivate fans worldwide.
