NASCAR 26 gameplay trailer drops as pre-orders open

iRacing Studios and NASCAR released a gameplay trailer for NASCAR 26 and opened pre-orders for Standard and Gold editions. The developer confirmed the game will launch on Sept. 18, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC.

The new trailer focuses on in-race sights and sounds, showing close-up racing, tire smoke and engine noise intended to convey the on-track experience. It follows a previous clip that outlined game components; this video centers on raw gameplay footage and mechanics.

Two editions will be available at launch: Standard and Gold. Publisher details on pricing and the full Gold Edition contents are due later this month. The Gold Edition includes three days of early access before the official release.

NASCAR 26 features licensed drivers across the four premier NASCAR series: the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series. Kyle Larson appears as the cover driver in promotional materials.

Developers built a dynamic track system that evolves over the course of a race weekend to reflect rubber buildup and changing track conditions. The studio updated Career Mode and introduced online cross-platform multiplayer that allows players on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC to race together. The game also adds burnouts and an updated driving model, with further gameplay features to be detailed in an upcoming trailer.

iRacing Studios took the lead on the console series after fan feedback prompted NASCAR to expand its development partnership. Nick Rend, vice president of Interactive & Emerging Platforms at NASCAR, said fans asked for iRacing Studios to make the next console title and described NASCAR 26 as “the most complete and authentic NASCAR console game we have delivered.” He pointed to improvements in car handling, evolving tracks and cross-platform play as key parts of the new release.

Pre-orders are available now on all platforms. The publisher plans to release pricing information and a second trailer later this month that will outline Gold Edition bonuses and additional gameplay details.