NASCAR Xfinity Series at Pocono: Historic Name Change Marks 2026 Race Weekend
The motorsport world is witnessing a landmark moment as the NASCAR Xfinity Series prepares for its Pocono Raceway showdown on 14 June 2026 – the firstetime the series will carry its new name: the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. UK fans can catch every thrilling lap starting at 2:00 AM BST, with free live streaming available now.
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This Saturday’s contest represents more than just another race on the calendar – it symbolises the end of an 11-year partnership with Xfinity and the beginning of a new era under O’Reilly Auto Parts’ entitlement. The 250-mile battle at the legendary “Tricky Triangle” promises high-speed drama that will captivate British motorsport enthusiasts.
nbcsportsEvent Overview: What UK Fans Need to Know
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | O’Reilly Auto Parts Series vs Pocono Raceway |
| Series Name | NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series 2026 (formerly Xfinity) |
| Venue | Pocono Raceway, Long Pond, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Date | 14 June 2026 (Saturday 13 June ET) |
| UK Time | 2:00 AM BST |
| Race Distance | 100 laps (250 miles) |
| TV Broadcaster | CW Network (US) |
| Live Stream | Available via official link below |
Pocono Raceway remains one of NASCAR’s most unique challenges – a 2.5-mile triangular track with three distinct turns, each mimicking a different legendary circuit. The expanded 100-lap format this year (previously 90 laps in five consecutive years) adds extra strategic depth to the competition.
sports.yahooMatch Preview: The Battle for Pocono Glory
Why This Race Matters
The 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Pocono arrives at a pivotal moment in the season. With the series freshly rebranded, drivers are eager to cement their names in history as the first to compete under the new banner.
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Pocono has delivered unforgettable moments throughout recent years, with the track’s combination of high-speed corners and long straights creating constant overtaking opportunities. The venue’s sold-out Cup Series race for three consecutive years demonstrates its growing appeal among American motorsport fans.
poconoracewayRace Schedule (UK Times)
- Prerace Show: 1:30 AM BST
- Engines Start: 1:59 AM BST
- Green Flag: ~2:10 AM BST
- Race Broadcast (CW): 2:00 AM BST
- Expected Finish: ~4:30 AM BST
Practice sessions and qualifying took place earlier in the weekend, with Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio providing comprehensive coverage.
sports.yahooKey Drivers to Watch
Top Contenders for Pocono
While official driver standings continue developing through the 2026 season, several names are expected to dominate the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Pocono:
1. Championship Hopefuls
The series’ point leaders will bring maximum aggression to the Tricky Triangle, knowing that Pocono results can dramatically shift championship momentum. Drivers with previous Pocono success in the Xfinity/O’Reilly Series hold psychological advantages.
sports.yahoo2. Cup Series Regulars
Several NASCAR Cup Series drivers occasionally compete in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, bringingsession-level experience that could prove decisive at Pocono’s challenging layout.
3. Rising Stars
The developmental nature of the series means young talent constantly emerges. Pocono’s unique demands often separate the seasoned competitors from the newcomers.
Where to Watch: Live Streaming for UK Fans
British motorsport fans face a common challenge: the CW Network’s US broadcast doesn’t directly stream internationally. However, verified live streaming options are now available.
Streaming Details:
- Quality: HD streaming available
- Language: English commentary
- Features: Live race, prerace, post-race analysis
- Accessibility: Works on UK devices (mobile, tablet, desktop)
The CW app offers race replays the day after the event, but live streaming through the official link above provides real-time access for UK viewers.
cwtvSeries Rebranding: Xfinity to O’Reilly Auto Parts
The Historic Name Change
On 1 January 2026, the NASCAR Xfinity Series officially became the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. This multi-year sponsorship deal marks the fourth entitlement partnership in the series’ history, following Xfinity’s 11-year tenure starting in 2015.
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O’Reilly Auto Parts, born in America and built on hard work and passionate drive, aligns perfectly with NASCAR’s core values. The first race under the new name occurred on 14 February 2026, with Pocono representing a mid-season cornerstone event.
groundWhy This Matters for UK Fans
The rebranding creates fresh storytelling opportunities for British motorsport enthusiasts:
- New sponsorship aesthetics and car designs
- Updated broadcast graphics and branding
- First-ever “O’Reilly Auto Parts Series” champion to be crowned
- Evolving driver rivalries under the new banner
Race Statistics & Track Facts
Pocono Raceway Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Track Length | 2.5 miles |
| Turn 1 | 14 degrees banking (mimics Trenton Raceway) |
| Turn 2 | 8 degrees banking (mimics Michigan International) |
| Turn 3 | 6 degrees banking (mimics Richmond Raceway) |
| Longest Straight | 3,700 feet |
| Race Laps (2026) | 100 laps |
| Total Distance | 250 miles |
The track’s three unique turns create constant vehicle setup challenges, forcing drivers to adapt their approach throughout each lap.
sports.yahooFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time is the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Pocono in UK time?
The race starts at 2:00 AM BST on 14 June 2026. Engines start at 1:59 AM with the green flag expected around 2:10 AM.
espnWhat is the new name of the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2026?
Starting 1 January 2026, the series is officially called the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
nbcsportsHow can I watch the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Pocono from the UK?
Use the official live streaming link: WATCH LIVE NOW for HD streaming accessible in the UK.
cwtvHow many laps is the Pocono Xfinity race in 2026?
The 2026 race features 100 laps (250 miles), expanded from the previous 90-lap format.
sports.yahooWhich TV channel broadcasts the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Pocono?
The CW Network broadcasts the race in the US, starting at 3:00 PM ET.
espnIs Pocono Raceway one of NASCAR’s most challenging tracks?
Yes – known as the “Tricky Triangle,” Pocono’s three distinct turns make it uniquely demanding for drivers and car setups.
sports.yahooFinal Thoughts: Don’t Miss Motorsport History
The 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Pocono represents a watershed moment in American motorsport. UK fans witnessing this race at 2:00 AM BST will be part of the inaugural season under O’Reilly Auto Parts’ entitlement.
sportskeedaWith the expanded 100-lap format, the Tricky Triangle’s inherent challenges, and the fresh energy of a rebranded series, Saturday’s race promises unforgettable action. Whether you’re a longtime NASCAR enthusiast or new to motorsport, this event showcases the speed, skill, and drama that define American racing.
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