So, you're looking for engines screaming and tires smoking right this second. Kinda makes sense. It’s mid-January, the air is crisp, and if you’re a racing fan, the "offseason" already feels like it's been a decade long.
If you came here looking for the Cup Series—the big dogs like Chase Elliott or Kyle Larson—you aren't going to find them on a points-paying track today, January 16, 2026. They are mostly at home or in the shop, prepping for the return to "The Madhouse" at Bowman Gray Stadium in a few weeks. But that doesn't mean there isn't a NASCAR-sanctioned race happening.
Honestly, the real action today is out West.
Where is the NASCAR race today and what time?
Right now, the focus is on the Chilly Willy 2026 at Tucson Speedway in Arizona. This isn't just some local hobbyist meet; it’s a crown jewel of the NASCAR Regional scene.
Here is the breakdown of the schedule for Friday, Jan. 16:
- Location: Tucson Speedway (3/8-mile asphalt oval), Tucson, Arizona.
- Broadcasting Starts: 7:45 p.m. ET (which is 5:45 p.m. local Mountain Time).
- Main Events: Feature races for the Super Late Models and Legends.
- Where to Watch: FloRacing.
You won't find this on Fox or NBC. Since it's a regional property, FloRacing has the exclusive rights. They’ve basically become the home for anything that isn't the "Big Three" national series. If you’re in Tucson, the front gates open at 4 p.m. local time. Qualifying for the Super Late Models, Pro Late Models, and Legends kicks off basically the second those gates swing wide.
What's actually happening on the track?
The Chilly Willy is the 13th edition of this event. It’s a bit of a tradition. Drivers from all over the West Coast (and some brave souls from the East) descend on this 3/8-mile oval to chase a $20,000 payday for the Sunday finale.
Tonight, Friday, is about setting the tone. You’ve got the 50-lap Super Late Model features and 25-lap Legends features. Plus, the CARS Tour West Pro Late Models are running their Last Chance Qualifiers. It's high-stakes short-track racing. If you've never watched a Legends car race on a tight oval, it’s basically organized chaos with wheels.
Looking ahead: When do the "Real" NASCAR series start?
I know, I know. You might be asking about the Cup Series, the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (the artist formerly known as Xfinity), or the Craftsman Trucks. We are still a little ways off from the "official" season launch.
The 2026 schedule for the big series is already set, and it’s a weird one this year with a lot of movement. Here is when you actually need to clear your calendar:
- February 1: The Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. This is an exhibition, but it's at "The Madhouse" in Winston-Salem. It starts at 8 p.m. ET on FOX.
- February 12: The Bluegreen Vacations Duels at Daytona. Racing starts at 7 p.m. ET.
- February 13: The Craftsman Truck Series season opener at Daytona. 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.
- February 14: The O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (Xfinity) opener at 5 p.m. ET on The CW.
- February 15: The Daytona 500. The big one. 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.
Why the 2026 schedule matters more than usual
There's a lot of chatter about the 2026 season because NASCAR did something they haven't done in ages: they moved the championship. For the first time since 2019, the season won't end in the desert at Phoenix. Instead, we’re heading back to Homestead-Miami Speedway on November 8 for the finale.
Most fans are hyped about it. Homestead's multi-groove racing usually delivers a way better show than the aero-dependent Phoenix track. We also have a brand new street course coming in June at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. Basically, the sport is trying to find its "Chicago Street Race" magic in Southern California.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're itching for a fix tonight, here's what you do:
- Check FloRacing: If you have a subscription, the Chilly Willy broadcast is your best bet for live, sanctioned NASCAR Regional racing tonight at 7:45 p.m. ET.
- Set Your DVR: If you're waiting for the Cup Series, mark February 1 on your calendar. That Bowman Gray race is going to be a bumper-car session, and you won't want to miss it.
- Ticket Check: If you're planning on hitting a race this year, the 2026 tickets for COTA (March 1) and Phoenix (March 8) are already seeing high demand. Don't wait until the week of.
Racing is officially back in the regional sense, and the national "big show" is only about two weeks away. Keep your eyes on the short tracks for now.