NASCAR could be making its long-awaited return north of the United States border.
After two years of discussions, NASCAR appears close to finalizing its entry into Canada. Reports indicate the Xfinity Series will arrive in Montreal in 2026, with the Cup Series following in 2027 if all goes according to plan.
Previously known as the Nationwide Series, the Xfinity Series raced in Montreal from 2007 to 2012. Now, more than a decade after its departure, NASCAR fans in Canada are excited about a potential return.
Canadian NASCAR Fans Elated With the Sport’s Potential Return to Montreal
Before the Cup Series arrives, the Xfinity Series will serve as a “warm-up” for fans who have waited years to see stock cars race in Canada again.
Many fans took to X to share their excitement, with some saying an Xfinity Series race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve “would be cool.”
As a Canadian NASCAR fan, this just made my day!
— susanna (@imsusannav22) March 15, 2025
Some fans hope a Montreal race could replace Phoenix on the schedule, saying it would be “awesome.”
Interesting story from our neighbors to the north if you want to translate this from French.
They have “intensive negotiations” about Xfinity/Truck coming to Montreal in 2026 followed by the Cup Series in 2027. (h/t @TravisDeer1Buck) https://t.co/eoxORZqQnv
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) March 14, 2025
In recent years, NASCAR has focused on expansion. Along with potential races in Canada, reports also suggest the sport is looking at Brazil.
In any case, the motorsport giant is looking to increase it’s exposure outside the US and create more international excitement over what has been, primarily, an American interest.
While nothing is official, the presence of Francois Dumontier at this year’s Daytona 500 has added to speculation. Dumontier is president of Canada’s National Sports Authority for Motorsports.
However, the process hasn’t been smooth, largely due to the involvement of the Quebec government. Representatives visited the Notre Dame Island facility, which has undergone significant changes since NASCAR last raced in Canada.
Meanwhile, NASCAR will run in Mexico this season for the first time ever.
NASCAR’s expansion efforts aren’t limited to new locations. Officials are also pushing to add more manufacturers to improve competition.
Currently, only three manufacturers — Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota — compete in NASCAR, fueling speculation about team alliances. To increase competition, NASCAR is working to bring in new OEMs.
Dodge has emerged as a top contender to return as the fourth manufacturer. The American automaker was previously part of NASCAR but left the sport after the 2012 season.