NASCAR to move WGI Cup Series to May in 2026

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Photo: Metro Services, Saga Communications

WATKINS GLEN, NY (607NewsNow) – A popular race at Watkins Glen International (WGI) is happening earlier next year.

On April 20, NASCAR released its 2026 schedule, and the Go Bowling at the Glen event, which features the Craftsman Truck, Xfinity, and Cup Series, will now take place from May 8 to May 10.

It will be the second time in three years that the races, which are typically held in August, have been moved.

In 2024, the 3-day event at WGI was pushed back to September. When that decision was announced in October 2023, Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo said it would extend the summer tourism season and have a tremendous economic impact.

Attempts to reach Watkins Glen International’s media team by phone and email were unsuccessful.

WENY-TV reports that WGI officials believe the move will be supported.

“Our fans showed a couple weeks ago how much they love NASCAR racing at Watkins Glen International, and it’s exciting that they will get to see the full slate of national series drivers again on our historic road course,” said WGI President Dawn Burlew in a statement. “Fans are definitely going to see the best of the best put on a great show in an attempt to secure their playoff spot early in the season next May.”

More information and ticket info is available here.

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