Experience the Thrill of the ARCA Menards Series

The ARCA Menards Series represents the premier developmental racing league in American motorsports, proudly supported by Menards as the official title sponsor. As a cornerstone of professional stock car racing, this high-octane championship series provides a critical proving ground for the sport's rising stars while delivering unparalleled, edge-of-your-seat entertainment to millions of dedicated fans across the nation. Whether you are a lifelong follower of the sport who tracks every lap or a newcomer drawn to the raw power and deafening roar of the engines, the 2026 racing season promises to be the most exhilarating and fiercely competitive chapter yet in our storied motorsports history.

Menards has always believed in the transformative power of community, fierce competition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—core values that are perfectly embodied by the elite athletes, dedicated pit crews, and visionary team owners competing in the ARCA Menards Series. By sponsoring this prestigious national championship, we are not only investing millions into the future of professional auto racing but also bringing the palpable excitement of the track directly to our loyal retail customers. From exclusive, limited-edition merchandise available in our home improvement stores to VIP garage pass giveaways, we invite you to join us in celebrating the speed, skill, and unwavering sportsmanship that define this incredible series.

View 2026 Schedule Current Standings

High-speed racing action stock car on track ARCA Menards Series

The Foundation of a Racing Legacy

The ARCA Menards Series has been a cornerstone of American stock car racing since its inception, with Menards serving as the title sponsor to foster the next generation of championship drivers. Our deep-rooted involvement in motorsports began decades ago when company founder John Menard Jr. recognized the undeniable synergy between the precision engineering required on the racetrack and the high-quality building materials sold in our stores. Over the years, this initial interest blossomed into a comprehensive corporate partnership that has fundamentally shaped the landscape of developmental auto racing in the United States.

By providing crucial financial backing, logistical support, and national marketing visibility, Menards has enabled the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) to elevate its operational standards, improve vehicle safety protocols, and attract top-tier driving talent from around the globe. This enduring commitment ensures that grassroots racing continues to thrive, offering a vital stepping stone for talented individuals dreaming of competing at the highest echelons of professional motorsports.

Expanding the National Footprint

Since officially partnering with the Automobile Racing Club of America, Menards has significantly expanded the national footprint of the series, ensuring fans across the country have access to high-octane entertainment. Before our title sponsorship, the series was primarily localized to the Midwestern United States. Today, the ARCA Menards Series boasts a sprawling 20-race calendar that touches major metropolitan markets and historic racing venues from coast to coast, broadcasting live to millions of households via premier sports television networks.

This massive expansion has not only increased viewership by over 45% over the past five years but has also generated substantial economic impacts for the local communities that host these thrilling weekend events. Through strategic cross-promotions in our retail locations and aggressive digital marketing campaigns, we continue to introduce the adrenaline-fueled world of stock car racing to new demographics, securing the sport's longevity well into the 2026 season and beyond.

The 2026 ARCA Menards Series schedule is a comprehensive 20-race calendar that spans iconic superspeedways, historic dirt tracks, and challenging road courses across the United States. Fans can expect unparalleled competition as teams battle for the championship title from the season opener in February through the dramatic finale in October. Each meticulously planned event tests the limits of automotive engineering and driver endurance, requiring teams to adapt to vastly different track surfaces, banking angles, and unpredictable weather conditions.

We are thrilled to announce the return of several fan-favorite venues for the 2026 season, alongside the introduction of two brand-new, state-of-the-art racing facilities that promise to deliver record-breaking lap times. All races will be broadcast live with comprehensive pre-race and post-race coverage, ensuring that even if you cannot attend in person, you will never miss a moment of the bumper-to-bumper action. Check your local listings or our official streaming partners to catch every green flag drop.

Daytona International Speedway

Date: February 14, 2026

Location: Daytona Beach, FL

The season kicks off with the ultimate test of restrictor-plate racing at the world-famous Daytona International Speedway. Drivers will navigate the treacherous 2.5-mile high-banked tri-oval at speeds exceeding 180 mph, drafting in massive packs where a single mistake can trigger a multi-car pileup. Winning at Daytona is a career-defining achievement that sets the tone for the entire championship campaign.

Talladega Superspeedway

Date: April 25, 2026

Location: Lincoln, AL

Known as the biggest, fastest, and most competitive motorsports facility in the world, Talladega Superspeedway pushes the ARCA Menards Series cars to their absolute aerodynamic limits. The 2.66-mile asphalt track features staggering 33-degree banking in the turns, demanding intense concentration and flawless spotter communication as drivers execute daring three-wide passes for the lead.

Charlotte Motor Speedway

Date: May 22, 2026

Location: Concord, NC

Held under the dazzling lights during the heart of motorsports month, the Charlotte Motor Speedway event is a true test of intermediate track mastery. The 1.5-mile quad-oval requires a perfectly balanced race car that can rotate through the corners without sacrificing straight-line speed. This marquee event often attracts massive crowds and serves as a crucial mid-season points battle.

Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Date: July 10, 2026

Location: Lexington, OH

Breaking away from the traditional ovals, the series shifts gears to the demanding 2.258-mile, 13-turn Mid-Ohio road course. This race requires heavy braking, precise downshifting, and aggressive curb-hopping, challenging drivers who primarily specialize in left-hand turns. It is a true showcase of versatility and car control in the ARCA Menards Series.

Springfield Mile (Dirt)

Date: August 16, 2026

Location: Springfield, IL

Embracing the rugged roots of stock car racing, the Springfield Mile at the Illinois State Fairgrounds offers a spectacular display of sideways, dirt-slinging action. Teams must completely overhaul their suspension setups to find grip on the slick clay surface. This historic race is a fan favorite, requiring drivers to physically wrestle their 3,300-pound machines through every corner.

Toledo Speedway (Finale)

Date: October 3, 2026

Location: Toledo, OH

The 2026 championship culminates at the legendary Toledo Speedway, a lightning-fast half-mile oval that demands aggressive short-track tactics. With the championship trophy on the line, tempers flare and bumpers are heavily utilized as drivers fight for every inch of real estate. The season finale is guaranteed to deliver dramatic, unforgettable conclusions to year-long rivalries.

Current driver standings in the ARCA Menards Series reflect a dynamic mix of seasoned veterans and rising rookies competing for the ultimate championship trophy. The intricate points system rewards unwavering consistency, aggressive stage wins, and overall race victories throughout the grueling 20-race season. As we progress through the 2026 schedule, the margin of error becomes razor-thin, with championship contenders separated by mere fractions of a point.

These top-tier athletes undergo intense physical and mental conditioning to endure extreme cockpit temperatures exceeding 130 degrees Fahrenheit, pulling heavy G-forces for hours on end. Their ability to make split-second decisions while navigating heavy traffic at 180 mph separates the good drivers from the true legends of the sport. Below is a detailed look at the current top five drivers dominating the leaderboard this season.

1. Marcus Vance - 1,450 Points

Driving the #18 Toyota, Marcus Vance has established himself as the undisputed driver to beat in the 2026 season. With an astonishing five victories and twelve top-five finishes already secured, Vance's smooth, calculating driving style allows him to preserve his tires for late-race restarts. His veteran experience and unmatched mastery of 1.5-mile intermediate tracks have given his team a comfortable, yet entirely surmountable, points cushion heading into the final stretch of the calendar.

2. Sarah Jenkins - 1,395 Points

Piloting the fiercely competitive #20 Ford, Sarah Jenkins is enjoying a breakout sophomore season that has captivated the motorsports world. Known for her fearless, aggressive maneuvers on superspeedways, Jenkins recently captured back-to-back victories at Daytona and Talladega. Her exceptional qualifying speeds and ability to expertly manipulate the aerodynamic draft make her a constant threat to Vance's championship hopes, proving she belongs at the very top of the ARCA Menards Series.

3. David "The Hammer" Rossi - 1,320 Points

A true short-track specialist, David Rossi commands the #15 Chevrolet with an intimidating, physical driving style that earned him the nickname "The Hammer." Rossi excels in close-quarters combat, utilizing the "bump-and-run" technique to perfection at venues like Toledo and Bristol. While he struggles slightly on the larger aerodynamic tracks, his sheer dominance on short ovals keeps him firmly entrenched in the top three of the championship standings.

4. Tyler Chen - 1,285 Points

As the leading contender for the 2026 Rookie of the Year honors, Tyler Chen has stunned the paddock with his rapid adaptation to heavy stock cars. Transitioning from open-wheel sprint cars, the 19-year-old prodigy drives the #55 Toyota with incredible car control, particularly on dirt tracks and road courses. Chen secured his maiden victory at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, showcasing a natural talent that promises a long, successful career in the upper echelons of NASCAR.

5. Robert "Bobby" Henderson - 1,210 Points

The wily veteran of the group, Bobby Henderson brings over a decade of ARCA Menards Series experience to the #9 Ford. What Henderson lacks in raw qualifying speed, he makes up for with brilliant racecraft, unmatched tire management, and strategic pit calls. He consistently finishes in the top ten by avoiding chaotic wrecks and capitalizing on the mistakes of younger, more aggressive drivers, making him a perennial dark horse for the championship title.

Drivers directly sponsored by Menards act as brand ambassadors on and off the track, carrying the iconic bright yellow and orange colors to victory lane. These elite athletes undergo rigorous training, extensive media coaching, and comprehensive development programs to compete at the highest levels of stock car racing while proudly representing our corporate values. When you see the Menards logo flashing across your television screen at 180 mph, you are witnessing the culmination of relentless hard work, cutting-edge automotive engineering, and a shared commitment to unparalleled excellence.

Our direct sponsorship program goes beyond simply placing a decal on the hood of a race car. We work intimately with team owners, crew chiefs, and the drivers themselves to ensure they have the state-of-the-art resources, wind tunnel testing data, and premium equipment necessary to dominate the competition. Get to know the exceptional individuals who are currently driving the flagship Menards vehicles during the 2026 season.

Brandon Jones

A familiar and beloved face in the Menards racing family, Brandon Jones has been a staunch competitor in both the ARCA Menards Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Piloting the primary bright yellow Menards entry, Jones brings a wealth of experience, a calm demeanor under intense pressure, and a proven track record of securing dramatic, clutch victories. His technical feedback is invaluable to his engineering team, allowing them to make precise, race-winning adjustments during critical pit stops. Off the track, Brandon frequently visits Menards store locations to sign autographs, interact with fans, and promote safe driving initiatives within local communities.

Christian Rose

Representing the next generation of hard-charging talent, Christian Rose drivers the #32 Menards Ford with an infectious enthusiasm and an aggressive, crowd-pleasing style. A former Division 1 college baseball player, Rose transitioned his fierce competitive drive from the diamond to the asphalt, quickly rising through the late-model ranks. His analytical approach to breaking down telemetry data and his physical stamina during grueling 500-mile events have made him a standout performer in the 2026 season. Rose is particularly passionate about our "Save Big Money" campaigns, often participating in hilarious, viral social media promotions for the brand.

Gus Dean

A rugged, no-nonsense competitor, Gus Dean brings a gritty, blue-collar work ethic to the Menards racing stable that perfectly aligns with our customer base of hardworking contractors and dedicated DIYers. Driving the #55 Menards Toyota in select marquee events, Dean is known for his spectacular superspeedway prowess and his ability to expertly navigate the chaotic aerodynamic draft at Daytona and Talladega. He has a remarkable talent for keeping his car clean during massive multi-car wrecks, often emerging from the smoke to challenge for the lead in the closing laps. Dean's deep appreciation for the mechanical side of the sport makes him a favorite among our automotive department shoppers.

Exclusive racing merchandise, including precision-crafted diecast cars, official team apparel, and limited-edition collector's items, is available at select Menards locations and through our comprehensive online shopping portal. Fans can showcase their unwavering support for the ARCA Menards Series by outfitting themselves in authentic, high-quality gear that mirrors exactly what the professional pit crews wear on race day. We understand that motorsports fandom is a lifestyle, which is why we continually update our inventory to reflect the latest driver rosters, custom paint schemes, and championship commemorative items.

Whether you are looking to decorate your garage with vibrant metal track signs, upgrade your race-day wardrobe with breathable, moisture-wicking polo shirts, or find the perfect gift for the die-hard racing enthusiast in your life, our dedicated merchandise aisles have you covered. Furthermore, a significant portion of the proceeds from our exclusive racing apparel goes directly toward funding grassroots racing initiatives, ensuring the sport continues to grow at the local level.

1:24 Scale Authentic Diecast Cars

Meticulously detailed 1:24 scale diecast replicas of the 2026 Menards racing fleet. These premium collector's items feature opening hoods, posable steering, detailed engine blocks, and accurate sponsor decals. They are the perfect centerpiece for any office desk, man cave, or dedicated display cabinet, manufactured by industry leaders to ensure lasting value.

Official Pit Crew Apparel

Look like part of the team with our official, licensed pit crew apparel. Our selection includes breathable, high-performance button-down shirts, durable twill jackets, and adjustable embroidered hats featuring the bold Menards racing logo. Designed for comfort during hot summer race weekends, this gear is both stylish and highly functional.

Trackside Tailgating Gear

Elevate your pre-race tailgating experience with our exclusive line of ARCA Menards Series branded outdoor equipment. From heavy-duty pop-up canopy tents and insulated cooler bags to folding camping chairs with built-in cup holders, we supply everything you need to host the ultimate race-day party in the infield or your own backyard.

Commemorative Track Signs

Decorate your workshop or garage with high-quality, embossed tin signs featuring the iconic logos of the legendary tracks on the 2026 ARCA Menards Series schedule. These vintage-inspired, rust-resistant signs are perfect for adding a touch of high-speed automotive culture to your personal workspace or home bar area.

Driver Autograph Memorabilia

For the serious collector, we offer a rotating selection of authenticated, limited-edition memorabilia signed by top ARCA Menards Series drivers. This includes autographed hero cards, race-worn driving gloves, and certified pieces of sheet metal recovered from actual race-winning vehicles, complete with certificates of authenticity.

Youth Racing Apparel

Inspire the next generation of motorsports fans with our vibrant collection of youth racing apparel. We carry a wide range of children's t-shirts, cozy hoodies, and miniature adjustable caps featuring their favorite drivers and colorful race cars, ensuring the whole family can show their support on race day.

Win Tickets to Upcoming Races

Promotions to win tickets to upcoming races offer loyal Menards customers exclusive opportunities to experience the deafening roar of the engines live from the grandstands. Throughout the exhilarating 2026 season, we will be hosting massive nationwide sweepstakes, interactive digital contests, and special in-store promotional events where fans can secure VIP garage access, premium grandstand seating, and exclusive meet-and-greet passes with their favorite drivers.

Don't miss your chance to smell the burning rubber and feel the chest-pounding vibration of a 40-car field taking the green flag. Entering our ticket giveaways is fast, easy, and completely free for registered Menards account holders. Keep a close eye on our weekly ad flyers, subscribe to our email newsletter, and follow our official social media channels to be the first to know when new race weekend packages are announced in your local area.

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