• NASCAR's season-opening Clash race is likely to remain in the United States for 2026.
• Interlagos (Brazil) had been considered as a potential international venue for the Clash.
• NASCAR is open to the possibility of hosting future exhibition races outside of the United States.

NASCAR has addressed rumors about moving the season-opening Clash race outside of the United States. The Clash, which has been held at Daytona, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and Bowman Gray Stadium in recent years, may find a new home. While international venues like Interlagos in Brazil were considered, NASCAR Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy stated that the 2026 race is likely to remain domestic, though international races remain a possibility in the future.

• What: NASCAR is considering the location for the season-opening Clash race, with speculation about moving it outside the United States.
• Who: Key individuals include Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Venue & Racing Innovations Officer.
• When: The announcement concerns the 2026 season and future exhibition races.
• Where: Potential locations include the United States and international venues like Interlagos (Brazil).

The article focuses on NASCAR's consideration of international venues for the Clash race, particularly the potential of Interlagos in Brazil. Ben Kennedy's statement suggests a cautious approach, prioritizing domestic venues for the immediate future while keeping the door open for international expansion in the long term. This could be influenced by logistical concerns, fan accessibility, and the desire to maintain a strong presence within the US market.

I think as far as next year goes, more than likely it will stay domestic here in the United States.

I wouldn't ever rule out international in the future, though. We have thoughts about a lot of it being prior to the season, in the off-season, an exhibition race. It's a great opportunity for us to bring NASCAR racing to other parts of the world.

I think it's going to be something that we'll continue to consider, but at least for now we'll more than likely keep it domestic.

NASCAR's Clash race is expected to remain in the United States for the 2026 season, despite considerations for international venues like Interlagos. While the immediate future points to a domestic race, NASCAR is actively exploring opportunities for international exhibition races in the future. The decision reflects a balance between maintaining its core fan base in the US and expanding its global reach.