NASCAR likely returning to COTA in 2025

Good news, or bad news depending on who you are, NASCAR is likely returning to COTA for the 2025 season. When a track is as pleasing to look at, brings in big name sponsors and celebrities, the facility is top of the line, and fans can’t wait to pour in to watch – that track will remain on the schedule.

There are a lot of reasons why NASCAR would want to return to COTA for another season. When you look at the racing the Truck and Xfinity Series put on, it is a track that can produce a good product. These Cup cars are just a little too good on the road courses.

COTA is a world-class facility. By putting it on the schedule, NASCAR is able to add international legitimacy to the series. Fans love coming out to the track. It’s also attracted outside talent from IMSA, F1, IndyCar, and other specialties.

In a report from the Austin American-Statesman, COTA Chairman Bobby Epstein and Speedway Motorsports’ Marcus Smith seem to be on the same page in regards to a 2025 race.

“I don’t believe we have a contract yet for next year, but I don’t foresee any problem going forward,” Epstein said. “I’m sure we’re both happy to have them back.”

As for NASCAR’s side of things, it sounds like they are on board as well.

“We love bringing NASCAR to Austin and working with the talented team at Circuit of the Americas. Nothing is final until the official NASCAR schedule comes out, but we’re planning for another big event week in Austin at COTA in 2025,” said Smith.

NASCAR has put on good shows at COTA. As the drivers get more experience, mistakes are going to be few and far between. Could there be more cautions? Yes. Is this still a great track to have on the schedule? Also, yes.

William Byron wins NASCAR Cup Series race at COTA

As for the race this season, things were pretty predictable once the race played out a bit. William Byron was by far the best car in the field. He won the pole and was able to lead more than 40 laps in the 68-lap race.

Byron was battling the Toyotas on Sunday. Christopher Bell and Tyler Reddick were trying their best to run him down. Ty Gibbs was there with them. In the end, Bell had fresher tires and was coming fast on Byron’s bumper.

If this race goes one or two more laps, then Bell might have gotten to Byron, and who knows what happens then. However, it just wasn’t enough time for Bell to make a move and try to pass for the lead.

William Byron now has two wins, the first driver to multiple wins this season. He has accomplished that feat three years in a row now. These first eight weeks are where Byron has excelled in the last three years. Is the 24 car on a fast track back to Phoenix?