NASCAR: Is the Brickyard 400’s return to Indianapolis only temporary?

NASCAR: Is the Brickyard 400’s return to Indianapolis only temporary? NASCAR saw the revival of the famous Brickyard 400, and while a return to the oval next year is almost certain, it is not certain in 2026 and beyond.

This past weekend, NASCAR fans flocked to Speedway, Indiana, specifically the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. After three years of racing on the speedway’s road course, NASCAR returned to the oval to host the Brickyard 400. The return of the crown gem should have gone better, but blown tires caused problems. This was a major concern going into the event, and it had grown associated with stock cars and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway over the years. Kyle Larson’s comeback victory, however, stole the show and made up for the woes.

Furthermore, the fan attendance was successful. Ticket sales increased by 20% to 25% compared to 2019, when the most recent Brickyard 400 was held with fans in attendance. With a turnout of almost 70,000 people, it’s clear why the return was a wise move. While a return to the oval is almost certain for next year, it may not be permanent thereafter. Doug Boles, track president, announced a return to the four-turn, 2.5-mile (4.023-kilometer) oval in 2025. However, NASCAR has yet to back up its confirmation. Boles later discussed the possibility of a rotation between the oval and the 13-turn, 2.439-mile (3.925-kilometer) road course.