NASCAR and iRacing Studios are continuing with NASCAR video games with the announcement of NASCAR 26. The sequel to the much-acclaimed NASCAR 25 will bring more content afte establishing the core elements to create a successful NASCAR game. NASCAR 26 is available for pre-order now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam. The game will launch on September 18 and a gameplay trailer can be viewed below. The Standard Edition will retail for only $59.99 and the Gold Edition will retail for $79.99. Those who pre-order the Gold Edition will receive three days early access with other content included.

“Our fans told us they wanted iRacing Studios to build the next NASCAR console game, and they delivered,” said Nick Rend, Vice President of Interactive & Emerging Platforms at NASCAR. “The response to NASCAR 25 reflected the momentum we’re seeing around NASCAR video games, and NASCAR 26 takes another meaningful step forward with improvements across the entire experience, from how the cars drive and tracks evolve to cross-platform play that brings the community together. This is the most complete and authentic NASCAR console game we have delivered.”

New Features and What to Expect

Kyle Larson will be the cover driver for the game as the defending NASCAR champion. NASCAR 26 will include four NASCAR Series: NASCAR Cup Series, O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series. The game will be built in collaboration with NASCAR And powered by iRacing Studios' industry-leading simulation technology. Every car, driver and racing team from the 2026 championship for every series will be present here.

NASCAR 26 Gold Edition Details

  • $79.99
  • Three days early access
  • Four monthly paint scheme DLC packs
  • 1,000 career mode rep points
  • $10,000 career bonus

The biggest change to the gameplay comes with dynamic track changes, which is something no NASCAR game in the past has implemented. If you are a fan of the series, you know that track conditions change with the time of the day and the amount of rubber on the track. This means cars will handle differently, and certain racing lines become faster. This will be added to NASCAR 26 as the tracks will evolve over the course of every race weekend. This is a major step to add authentic representation to the sport in video game form.

Visual upgrades will come in the form of improved graphics, skies and dynamic lighting. Players can also expect improved replay cameras. Burnout celebrations are being added along with an all-new RAM truck, a new spotter in the form of Freddie Kraft and a trophy room. Players can also expect the new Qualcomm Circuit at the Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, the return of Chicagoland, and another road course in St. Petersburg.

The biggest change to the gameplay comes with dynamic track changes, which is something no NASCAR game in the past has implemented.

The AI was already fairly impressive and the dev team is bringing even better driver AI. Along with the previously mentioned dynamic track technology, players can expect enhanced calibration tools for control options and forced feedback, improved driving model thanks to overhauled tire and braking models, a particle system that enhances smoke, debris and rubber buildup, and finally the 750HP package for the cars. Updated driver ratings, an improved paint kit, safety violations, DNFs and more look to make NASCAR 26 more ofa complete package.

"NASCAR 26 isn’t just about adding new features, it is to continue our long-term approach to building the most authentic NASCAR console franchise ever created,” said Matt Lewis, Vice President and Senior Producer at iRacing Studios. "Dynamic track technology means conditions evolve throughout a race weekend, the improvements we’ve made to the driving model, the new modes we’ve added… it’s all rooted in one of the founding principles of iRacing; leading with an authentic experience for our fans. We're excited for players to experience NASCAR 26 this September."

Pre-Order Details for NASCAR 26

As mentioned, there are two editions of NASCAR 26 that can be pre-ordered today. The Standard Edition won't include anything, and neither have any pre-order bonuses. The Gold Edition will include the three days early access that starts on September 15, but will also add four monthly paint scheme DLC packs, 1K career mode rep points, a $10K career bonus and more.

Tying into the Career Mode, players can expect an enhanced one with new facilities feature and team upgrades. A standalone mode that features competing in just The Chase will be available along with a new training mode. Lastly, multiplayer will be cross-platform as this was missing from the first game. NASCAR 25 still has a strong online presence, and the ability to merge all the players will make this pool even larger.