News Summary
In a historic move for motorsports, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series is set to make its street course debut during the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. This milestone event, taking place in 2026, will enhance the entertainment for fans and mark the series’ first street race, previously anticipated to be held in San Diego. The Truck Series’ presence alongside the IndyCar season opener promises an engaging multi-day celebration for motorsport enthusiasts.
St. Petersburg, FL – In a historic move for motorsports, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will make its debut on a street course during the 2026 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The race is set to take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, and is being described as a significant milestone in the series’ 31-year history. This announcement was made when NASCAR revealed the schedules for all three national series on August 20, 2025.
The 2026 Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, which is scheduled from February 27 to March 1, will also feature the NTT IndyCar Series’ season-opening race on March 1, 2026. This event is popular for its scenic waterfront layout and festive atmosphere, often referred to as IndyCar’s “spring break” opener, attracting large crowds each year. The addition of the Truck Series race is expected to enhance the entertainment value of the event further.
Previously, the Craftsman Truck Series was anticipated to hold its first street race at the Coronado Naval Base in San Diego in June 2026, making the St. Petersburg event an even more significant first for the series. The temporary street circuit in St. Petersburg spans 1.8 miles and showcases prominent landmarks in downtown St. Petersburg.
Kim Green, the CEO of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, expressed enthusiasm about incorporating the NASCAR trucks, believing it will enrich the overall experience for motorsports fans attending the Grand Prix. The Truck Series will join the well-established IndyCar weekend, which has been held on the St. Petersburg circuit since 2003 and draws tens of thousands of racing enthusiasts.
The season’s dual events, featuring both Truck Series and IndyCar races, will be broadcasted on FOX Sports, making it easily accessible to viewers across the country. This partnership reinforces NASCAR’s strategy to explore new markets, such as the Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg region, and showcases the organization’s commitment to broadening its audience.
Jusan Hamilton, NASCAR’s managing director of competition operations, highlighted the advantages of the Truck Series participating in street circuit racing. This experience allows drivers and teams in the development series to hone their skills in preparation for the more competitive Cup level races. The integration of the Truck Series into the thrilling atmosphere of the Grand Prix is expected to bring together fans from various motorsport backgrounds, creating an engaging multi-day celebration.
Tickets for the highly anticipated 2026 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will go on sale in the fall of 2025, providing fans an opportunity to witness this groundbreaking event firsthand. The recent co-event featuring both IndyCar and NASCAR Trucks at Texas Motor Speedway in April 2023 set a precedent for this exciting collaboration, making the upcoming St. Petersburg event one to watch.
The Grand Prix of St. Petersburg continues to evolve, cementing its reputation as a significant event in the motorsports calendar. This new chapter involving the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series not only impacts the series itself but also enhances the broader racing culture and community in the Tampa Bay area, promising an exhilarating experience for fans and participants alike.
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NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series to Debut in St. Petersburg
Additional Resources
- St. Peter Ising: NASCAR Debut at Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
- NASCAR: St. Petersburg Joins Craftsman Truck Schedule
- Jayski: First Ever NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Street Race
- Wikipedia: NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
- Business Observer: St. Pete to Host Debut Street Race
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
