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Anticipation builds as NASCAR gears up for a thrilling return to Phoenix Raceway, hosting a multi-series racing spectacle this weekend. The event, which includes the Cup, O'Reilly, and Truck series, marks a significant moment as Phoenix hosts these races for the first time since 2019 without it being the season's grand finale. Fans are eager to witness the intense competition unfold across three action-packed days.

This comprehensive guide offers an in-depth look at all essential details for the Phoenix race weekend. From the complete schedule of events to broadcasting information for live viewing and an exhaustive list of all competing teams and drivers, enthusiasts will find everything they need to follow the races closely. With reigning Phoenix champion Ryan Blaney and current championship leader Kyle Larson among the top contenders, the stage is set for a memorable weekend of high-speed drama.

Complete Weekend Schedule and Viewing Information

This section details the full schedule for the NASCAR Phoenix II weekend, encompassing practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main races for the Truck, O'Reilly, and Cup series. Enthusiasts can mark their calendars for each segment of the event, ensuring they don't miss any of the high-octane action. The schedule also provides specific broadcast channels and live stream options, allowing fans to tune in from various platforms. Additionally, vital race specifics such as green flag times, lap counts, and stage breakdowns are included to help viewers follow the progression of each competition accurately.

The Phoenix Raceway will host an exhilarating three-day racing festival, beginning on Friday, October 16th, with the NASCAR Truck Series practice at 3:30 PM EST, followed by qualifying at 4:35 PM EST, and concluding with the Truck Series race at 7:30 PM EST, all broadcast on FOX SPORTS 2/FOX ONE. Saturday, October 17th, will feature the NASCAR O'Reilly Series with practice at 2:00 PM EST and qualifying at 3:05 PM EST, with the race starting at 7:30 PM EST, available on THE CW APP/ESPN UNLIMITED. The NASCAR Cup Series will have its practice at 4:30 PM EST and qualifying at 5:35 PM EST on TRUTV/HBO MAX. The grand finale, the NASCAR Cup Series Phoenix race, is scheduled for Sunday, October 18th, with a pre-race show at 2:30 PM EST and the green flag dropping at 3:00 PM EST on USA, covering 312 laps with stages at 60, 125, and 127 laps, requiring nine sets of tires. Radio coverage will be provided by MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, with international viewing options also available.

NASCAR Cup Series at Phoenix: Entry List and Key Contenders

Here, a comprehensive list of all participants for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix is presented. This includes the car number, driver's name, team affiliation, and vehicle manufacturer for each of the 37 entries. Highlighting the competitive landscape, the list notes the sole open entry by Corey Heim for 23XI Racing. This overview helps fans identify their favorite drivers and teams and understand the full roster of competitors vying for victory. Insights into the championship standings and recent performances of key drivers like Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell, and Chase Briscoe are also provided, setting the stage for an intense race weekend.

The NASCAR Cup Series event at Phoenix boasts a robust field of 37 contenders, including prominent names such as Ryan Blaney from Team Penske, Kyle Larson representing Hendrick Motorsports, and Denny Hamlin driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. Notably, Corey Heim will compete as the single open entry in the No. 67 23XI Racing Toyota. Blaney enters the race with strong momentum, having secured victories in the last two Phoenix Cup events, making Team Penske a formidable force. In the championship standings, Kyle Larson holds a commanding lead, 49 points ahead of Denny Hamlin and 51 points clear of Christopher Bell. Chase Briscoe, following two consecutive wins, has climbed to fourth place, trailing Larson by 65 points. This diverse entry list, featuring top drivers from Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, ensures a highly competitive and unpredictable race as teams battle for crucial championship points.

Williams Racing is set to captivate fans at the upcoming United States Grand Prix by showcasing a special 'Avengers: Doomsday' themed show car. This exciting collaboration between the Formula 1 team and the Marvel universe was initially unveiled at New York Comic Con and has since garnered immense enthusiasm from the public. The car, however, will exclusively be a static display within the Fan Zone, not participating in any on-track racing activities.

Williams Racing Brings Marvel Magic to Austin Fan Zone

From October 19 to 24, 2026, the Williams Fan Zone, situated at 800 Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, Texas, will host the highly anticipated 'Avengers: Doomsday' livery. This unique display offers a remarkable opportunity for motorsport enthusiasts and Marvel fans alike to witness the fusion of these two captivating worlds. The team's Instagram announcement, highlighting the car's presence after its Comic Con debut, quickly amassed nearly 130,000 likes and over 500 comments, underscoring the widespread excitement.

Beyond the striking show car, the Fan Zone will provide an array of engaging experiences. Attendees can look forward to appearances by Williams driver Alex Albon and team principal James Vowles, offering a chance for fans to interact with key figures from the sport. For those seeking a more immersive experience, COTA simulators, a Zoox autonomous mobility demonstration, and a Komatsu truck simulator will be available. Additionally, an exclusive 'Austin Edition' of the Marvel comic, further celebrating this crossover, will be distributed.

The partnership between Williams and Marvel was solidified with the release of the comic book 'Iron Man Racing Towards Doom,' penned by Ethan Sacks. This narrative features Albon, Sainz, and Vowles alongside iconic Marvel heroes Iron Man, Captain America, and Black Widow, as they unite to defend the Formula 1 championship against the formidable Doctor Doom. This collaboration precedes the highly anticipated cinematic release of 'Avengers: Doomsday' on December 18, which will see Robert Downey Jr. reprise his role as Iron Man, confronting Doctor Doom in what is expected to be a monumental film event.

This initiative by Williams Racing transcends traditional motorsport engagement, weaving a vibrant tapestry that connects the high-octane world of Formula 1 with the beloved storytelling of Marvel. It not only amplifies fan interaction but also introduces the sport to a broader audience, demonstrating the innovative ways teams are building community and excitement around their brands. By creating such immersive experiences, Williams is fostering a deeper connection with its fanbase and solidifying its presence at the intersection of sports and pop culture.