NASCAR has announced a significant change to its 2026 Cup Series schedule, shifting the fall Charlotte race back to the classic 1.50-mile oval. This marks the first time since 2017 that the event will be held on the oval rather than the Charlotte ROVAL, which NASCAR adopted in 2018. Officials decided this switch aligns better with the return of the Chase playoff format starting next season.
The announcement came during a podcast featuring Speedway Motorsports CEO Marcus Smith, who confirmed the decision ahead of the upcoming exhibition race. The change to the oval track has generated mixed reactions, particularly among fans and competitors who had grown accustomed to the technical challenges of the ROVAL layout.
Potential Impact on Shane van Gisbergen’s 2026 Season
This adjustment in Charlotte’s racing format presents a new challenge for Trackhouse Racing’s Shane van Gisbergen. The Kiwi driver has excelled on road courses such as the ROVAL and is considered one of its strong performers. Switching to the oval could complicate his quest for success, as past races at the ROVAL were among his notable victories.
In 2025, van Gisbergen secured a commanding victory at Charlotte’s ROVAL, starting second behind Tyler Reddick and leading 57 laps en route to beating Kyle Larson by over 15 seconds. His road course prowess had been a highlight of his rookie Cup Series season, where he made history by winning three consecutive road course races from pole positions—the first driver to do so since Jeff Gordon.
Reactions from Fans and NASCAR Community
The return to the oval has sparked disappointment among some fans on social media, many sympathizing with van Gisbergen’s situation. Responses included comments such as:
“Good, one less SVG road course win.” – User on X
“Everybody liked that. (Except SVG)” – User on X
“Shane van Gisbergen disapproves of this,” – A fan supporting van Gisbergen
“This absolutely sucks!” – Another fan expressing frustration
“Bad move. The Roval was amazing and having a second oval race makes the first one seem less special,” – Social media user
“The ROVAL has way more action than another boring 1.5 mile,” – User comment
NASCAR’s official account also confirmed the decision, stating:
“NEWS: In the fall, we return to @CLTMotorSpdwy’s roots! Speedway Motorsports announces all three NASCAR national series will race on the 1.5-mile oval.”
Trackhouse Racing Secures Energy Drink Sponsorship for 2026 Season
Alongside changes to the racing schedule, Trackhouse Racing revealed a major sponsorship renewal with Red Bull for drivers Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch heading into the 2026 season. This partnership, which began in early 2025, will continue with new car liveries featuring a dark matte blue design and prominent Red Bull branding.
Zilisch is set to debut the updated car at the Daytona 500, while van Gisbergen will drive the Red Bull-backed #97 Chevy Camaro ZL1 at EchoPark Speedway. Reflecting on the significance of his car number, van Gisbergen shared:
“It means a lot to have the number No. 97 on my Cup car. It’s a number that means so much to my family and me, so to see it on my car for the first time was surreal. I love the red flash designs on both sides of the car. It’s going to look epic on the track.” – Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse Racing driver
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Expectations for Van Gisbergen
Shane van Gisbergen’s strong rookie performance and multiple wins on road courses established him as a formidable competitor in the 2025 season. However, the shift back to Charlotte’s traditional oval track introduces a new set of obstacles as he navigates the 2026 Cup Series calendar. The change not only affects his race strategy but could influence his overall standing in a season that reintroduces the Chase playoff format.
As Trackhouse Racing continues to build momentum with Red Bull’s backing and van Gisbergen adapts to evolving track conditions, fans and analysts alike will be watching how this experienced driver balances his road course skillset with the demands of oval racing. The 2026 season promises intense competition as NASCAR returns to some of its historical venues and tested formats.
NEWS: In the fall, we return to @CLTMotorSpdwy's roots!
Speedway Motorsports announces all three NASCAR national series will race on the 1.5-mile oval. pic.twitter.com/MwGuB3LkMk
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 3, 2026
