After NASCAR’s Chart-Topping Dominance, Is Iowa Speedway Ready to Ascend the Calendar

The first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway was eventful and, surprisingly, a success despite the driver’s reservations about the repaving. And while there is no clear indication of whether or not NASCAR will return to the fastest short-track oval, The overall consensus and the positive signs from the Corn 350 certainly make the case for the continuity of Cup racing on the fastest short-track oval.

Going by the Iowa Speedway president’s comment and the rating on cable TV, it is indeed hard for NASCAR to not consider returning to the venue. Especially at a time when NASCAR is searching for markets that have passionate motor racing fans to fuel their growth trajectory.

Does Iowa Speedway deserve a date on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar?

NASCAR has long been plotting a move to promote its product beyond traditional boundaries. Although nothing can be said for certain now, there have been reports about holding a points race outside the United States. Canada and Mexico City are the two potential options on the table. However, Mexico City has long been reported to be the frontrunner, having hosted Xfinity Series races from 2005 to 2008.

But what if the governing council decides to go with the positive trend of the Iowa race and consider exploring the option of adding it to the schedule next year? If we are to take Eric Peterson’s word, he certainly seems optimistic about NASCAR’s return next year. “It exceeded every expectation we had. Fans did everything to support this with the sold-out race. We’ll make an announcement here probably by the end of the summer. We’re really excited.” He was quoted saying this via Nowcast KCCI News.

Furthermore, adding strength to this plan is a promising TV viewership number from last weekend’s race. According to a report by SBJ, the USANetwork got 2.693 million views, making it the most-watched sports program on cable TV. This event also becomes the most-watched Cup race on cable TV since last year’s road race at Pocono Speedway.

Another reason that makes sense to return to the race track is that NASCAR can make amends by repaving the entire track. While the race was entertaining, multiple drivers had to deal with flat tires and mechanical failures. So rather than taking the entire garage to a whole different country, NASCAR will just be able to carve a new market for itself in the Midwest. But again, with their aggressive expansion policy and drive to cater to new audiences who know they might have a different alternative.

Here are the major changes that could unfold in the NASCAR 2025 Cup Series schedule

Gone are those days when the Cup Series schedule would remain the same from year to year. With a vision of bringing in a new audience and building a better race product, the governing council now doesn’t shy away from exploring more options. This is where New Mexico could benefit and find itself on the schedule next year. If this prediction comes true, the Richmond race will have to take an exit. Not sure how NASCAR pursuits will feel about that.

Another venue that is expected to make way is the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. It was widely reported that the Clash would not return to the Coliseum for a fourth year, despite proving to be a success. It has to be noted that NASCAR’s contract with the venue was only until 2024, so a change could be imminent. Not to forget, NASCAR struck a deal to get stewardship of the iconic short-track Bowman Gray. So, they’ve potentially identified a new location for the exhibition event.

Speaking of the Clash, NASCAR would lose out on its presence in the southern California market with a new venue for the Clash. However, they could tap into the option of holding a race at Dodger Stadium or strike a partnership with the Long Beach Grand Prix. Apart from the points race, there was a lot of confusion and chaos surrounding the championship race venue. But NASCAR was quick to pop the rumor bubble as they announced that they would return to Phoenix Raceway in 2025 for the final race.

If NASCAR does want to add more races to its schedule, perhaps the road course race at Roval could take an exit. But it will be interesting to hear your thoughts on additions or omissions of the race tracks from the Cup Series schedule.