NASCAR’s first road course race of the year at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) turned out to be a hit, which might come as a surprise. The usual 3.41-mile layout was trimmed down to 2.4 miles, making it more exciting—similar to the action-packed Watkins Glen. Even Dale Earnhardt Jr., who has never been a big fan of road courses, was impressed by the changes.
Junior acknowledged how the new layout created better passing opportunities, with Christopher Bell charging from 19th to victory and Kyle Busch leading 42 laps, nearly ending his 59-race winless streak. This shift in racing dynamics made Junior appreciate COTA in a way he hadn’t before. Now, the question is—should NASCAR bring COTA back for a sixth season? Junior thinks so, but he also has another idea for NASCAR’s schedule.
Dale Jr., known for his deep knowledge of tracks, suggested that NASCAR should consider an international venue—Brands Hatch in England. On his Dale Jr. Download podcast, he highlighted its rich history and unique layout. The circuit features a longer Grand Prix course but also has a much shorter 1.2-mile Indy layout, which Junior believes could deliver intense racing.
The appeal of shorter road courses is what won him over at COTA. “I couldn’t have cared less if COTA disappeared before this weekend, but now it’s delivering the excitement of short-track racing on a road course, and I want more of that,” he said. That’s why he sees Brands Hatch’s Indy Circuit as a perfect fit.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Junior has pitched the idea of taking NASCAR to Brands Hatch. If not for a Cup Series race, he thinks it could be a great venue for The Clash, NASCAR’s preseason exhibition event. This year’s Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium brought back short-track nostalgia, but some worry that keeping it at the same location could eventually make it predictable.
With NASCAR’s push for international expansion—including adding Mexico to the schedule—Junior believes Brands Hatch would be a prime overseas option. As the executive director of iRacing, he has raced the track virtually many times and loves its tight, action-packed design.
Could Brands Hatch become a real possibility for NASCAR? Share your thoughts in the comments!
