Dale Earnhardt Jr. will once again climb behind the wheel in 2026, adding another race to his limited schedule later this year.
JR Motorsports confirmed that Earnhardt is set to compete at Newport Speedway on October 3, marking a new addition to his calendar as he continues to make select appearances throughout the season. The start will come in the zMAX CARS Tour Late Model Stock division, the grassroots series Earnhardt co-owns.
The start gives fans another opportunity to see the NASCAR Hall of Famer in competition — something that has become increasingly notable as his schedule remains intentionally limited.
Earnhardt Adds Newport to Select 2026 Appearances
GettyDale Earnhardt Jr. prepares for qualifying in a CARS Tour Late Model Stock event at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
The October event at Newport Speedway represents a new venue for Earnhardt, who has been strategic about when and where he races since stepping away from full-time competition.
The Tennessee short track reopened in 2024 following extensive renovations and has quickly re-established itself as a rising stop in the regional racing landscape. Its addition to the schedule has drawn attention across the industry, and Earnhardt’s participation only raises the profile of the event further.
JR Motorsports also confirmed the entry will carry backing from longtime partner Sun Drop, continuing a familiar paint scheme tied to several of Earnhardt’s recent appearances.
Continued Presence on Track in 2026
While no longer competing full-time, Earnhardt has remained active behind the wheel through a selective schedule that keeps him connected to the sport’s grassroots level.
He has already made multiple appearances during the 2026 season, including a start at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, where he competed in the Late Model Stock division. That event marked another step in his continued involvement in short track racing, an area he has increasingly prioritized in recent years.
Earnhardt also competed at North Wilkesboro Speedway earlier this season during the track’s high-profile return weekend. He finished inside the top three in that event, delivering a strong performance against a competitive field and reinforcing that he remains capable of contending when he straps in.
More Starts, Same Approach
Earnhardt’s 2026 appearances continue to follow a consistent approach — select races, meaningful venues, and opportunities that align with his broader role in the sport.
In addition to driving, Earnhardt remains deeply involved behind the scenes as a co-owner of the zMAX CARS Tour, alongside Kevin Harvick, Jeff Burton, and Justin Marks. The group has worked to elevate the series’ visibility and bring increased attention to short track racing across the Southeast.
His on-track appearances often align with that mission, helping spotlight key events while drawing additional fan and media interest.
The addition of Newport fits that model, pairing a newly revitalized track with one of the sport’s most recognizable names.
Earnhardt’s latest schedule update adds another marquee moment to the late-season calendar and gives fans one more chance to see him compete in 2026.
With each appearance, his presence continues to bridge NASCAR’s national spotlight with its grassroots foundation — a role he has embraced in this stage of his career.
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