Richmond Raceway will be the first venue to open the 2027 NASCAR Cup Chase, hosting a night race on September 10‑11.
Schedule Shift and Racing Lineup
The date moves the event from its traditional August slot to early September, aligning it with the rest of the Chase calendar.
Richmond has long served as the season finale; this marks the first time the track will debut as the opening night of the Chase.
The Cup weekend will also feature the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, adding a second championship to the same arena.
Official Reaction
“Richmond Raceway has always been a place where the stakes are high and the racing is unforgettable,” said President Lori Waran. “This just makes it even better, elevating the stakes for competitors and the experience for our fans. It’s an incredible opportunity, and we will do everything in our power to make next September a weekend to remember.”
Since its debut on the NASCAR agenda in 1953, Richmond Raceway has played a central role in the sport’s legacy.
For the 2027 season, the Southern 500 at Darlington will hold the title of Chase opener; Richmond will follow as the second track in the Chase schedule.
With the new schedule, Richmond’s track will soon become the stage for the season’s first and decisive display of racing prowess.
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