Published Jun 19, 2026, 3:19 PM EDT
The first race on an active base this weekend in San Diego reflects an American partnership ahead of the 250th national anniversary.
The historic partnership between the United States Navy and NASCAR will hit a crescendo this weekend as part of the racing series' "Race the Base" event that celebrates a pair of 250th birthdays. The event, taking place from June 19 to 21 at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, Calif., marks the first time a NASCAR points race will be held on an active military base. The 16-turn, 3.4-mile Qualcomm Circuit will be cheered on by passionate fans as races unfold all weekend on a course that will host all three NASCAR national series events. It's a project that was originally envisioned in 2024, Capt. Loren Jacobi, commanding officer of Naval Base Coronado, told Military.com. "NASCAR San Diego Weekend brings two American institutions together, the Navy and NASCAR," Jacobi said. "NASCAR pitched the idea two years ago, and we saw an opportunity for a mutually beneficial event. "This is about more than car races. This is about celebrating the Navy’s and the nation’s 250th birthdays. It’s about telling the stories of our sailors and their families in a new and innovative way. Plus, it’s an opportunity for the public to see the Navy up close and personal, in a way they might not be able to otherwise."
