Tech Section: The 750 HP Expansion
The 2026 season introduces a technical pivot at Phoenix, utilizing a 750 HP engine package—a significant increase from prior years. This is paired with the short-track aero package: 3-inch spoiler and reduced diffuser strakes, cutting downforce by approximately 30%.
Goodyear Tire Specs
Teams utilize the Goodyear Eagle short-track compound. Technical highlights focus on a tire that rewards management over 50-60 lap stage runs. With track temperatures reaching up to 100°F, managing heat-related fall-off is the weekend's primary objective.
Pre-Race: Saturday Schedule
Practice: Saturday, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET. Tyler Reddick and Ryan Blaney led early metrics in race trim.
Qualifying: Saturday, 3:10 PM - 4:00 PM ET. Amazon Prime broadcast. Sets the 37-car grid for Sunday.
Weather: Bright, sunny, 77°F. Humidity at a very dry 20%, which provides consistent, predictable mechanical grip.
Drivers & Teams: Official Entry (Top 15)
| No. | Driver | Team | Current Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45 | Tyler Reddick | 23XI Racing | 186 (P1) |
| 23 | Bubba Wallace | 23XI Racing | 116 (P2) |
| 9 | Chase Elliott | Hendrick Motorsports | 114 (P3) |
| 12 | Ryan Blaney | Team Penske | 100 (P4) |
| 97 | Shane van Gisbergen | Trackhouse Racing | 90 (P5) |
| 88 | Connor Zilisch | Trackhouse Racing | Rookie |
| 5 | Kyle Larson | Hendrick Motorsports | Contender |
| 24 | William Byron | Hendrick Motorsports | Contender |
37 teams/drivers are listed for 40 available spots.