NASCAR 26 launches with Gold Edition early access on console and PC

NASCAR 26 is now available in early access for Gold Edition owners on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, with the Standard Edition launching on September 18. Developed by iRacing Studios in collaboration with NASCAR, the game features racing across all four premier NASCAR series: the Cup Series, O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series.

Gold Edition owners can purchase the game for $79.99 and gain access to the full title plus a Season Pass with four monthly DLC packs through year-end, including new paint schemes, fire suits, and career mode bonuses. The Standard Edition costs $59.99. Pre-orders of either edition before September 18 unlock a $5,000 career bonus, 500 reputation points, and an exclusive Kyle Larson paint scheme.

Key additions to this year's iteration include an overhauled Career Mode with facility upgrades and coaching from NASCAR personalities Steve Letarte and Jamie McMurray, a new standalone Chase mode for championship competition, and Peak Performance training functionality. The game introduces dynamic track technology that evolves grip conditions throughout a race weekend, alongside a revised tire and braking model for improved authenticity. Visual enhancements span improved graphics, lighting, cloud interactions, and a new particle system for smoke and debris effects.

New content includes three additional tracks—Qualcomm Circuit at Naval Base Coronado, Chicagoland, and St. Petersburg—plus a new Ram truck, fresh spotter character Freddie Kraft, and customizable driver ratings. Cross-platform multiplayer enables players to compete together across all supported platforms.