The NASCAR Cup Series competitors are set to race on the 2.40-mile Circuit of the Americas road course this Sunday, March 1, as part of the third points event of the season. The NASCAR DuraMAX Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 3:30 pm ET, continuing the weekend’s racing action in Austin, Texas, with the primary goal of earning important championship points.
Qualifying Results and Driver Positions
During Saturday’s qualifying session for the NASCAR Cup Series, Tyler Reddick secured the pole position, earning the right to lead the pack at the green flag for the 2026 DuraMAX Grand Prix. Christopher Bell, last year’s winner of the same event, will begin the race from the eighth spot and aims to repeat his previous success at the track.
Sunday’s Race Schedule and Broadcast Information
The full Sunday schedule at Circuit of the Americas includes garage access starting at noon ET, with track activities running until 9:30 pm ET. The main event, the 95-lap, 228-mile DuraMAX Grand Prix, will take place at 3:30 pm ET. Fans can watch the race coverage on FOX and FOX One, while radio listeners can tune into PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio for live updates and commentary.
Weather Conditions and Raceday Outlook
Weather forecasts for the race day are favorable, calling for clear skies with no chance of rain at the start of the event. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 80 degrees, offering optimal conditions for both drivers and spectators at the Austin, Texas venue.
Significance of the DuraMAX Grand Prix for the NASCAR Season
This race marks a critical middle point in the NASCAR Cup Series, where drivers like Tyler Reddick and Christopher Bell are battling not only for victory at COTA but also for valuable points in the championship standings. The event’s outcome will influence team strategies moving forward, setting the tone for the remainder of the season. Television and radio coverage ensures that fans nationwide can follow the evolving competition closely.
Switching things up with the twists and turns of @NASCARatCOTA. pic.twitter.com/VFFI1vv81m
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 25, 2026
