NASCAR's Clash is staying in the States – for now

NASCAR still wants to expand internationally with its top series, but moving the preseason Clash event will not happen next year.

Ben Kennedy, NASCAR executive vice president and chief venue and racing innovation officer, said on Tuesday that  it's“more than likely it will stay domestic” in 2026. The full schedule for 2026 will be released in the coming months, including the location of the Clash, which had been rumored to possibly be heading to Brazil.

“I wouldn't ever rule out international in the future, though,” Kennedy said. “We have thoughts about a lot of it being prior to the season, in the off-season, an exhibition race. It's a great opportunity for us to bring NASCAR racing to other parts of the world. I think it's going to be something that we'll continue to consider, but at least for now, we'll more than likely keep it domestic.”

Bowman Gray Stadium hosted the Clash in February. It was the first time a NASCAR Cup Series race had been run at the track since 1971.

NASCAR had held the Clash at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum for three years (2022-2024) before bringing it to North Carolina. Prior to L.A., the event had a home in Daytona during Speedweeks from 1979 through 2021.

Regardless of venue or country, NASCAR is aiming to keep the Clash as a season kickoff event.

“I think we'll continue to have the Clash prior to the (Daytona) 500,” Kennedy said. “It's a great opportunity for us to build up some momentum in anticipation for our biggest event of the year, the Daytona 500, and the new season ahead. We'll continue to keep it in that spot.”