The 2026 Phoenix Raceway spring races are set to ignite the NASCAR season, and the qualifying orders are in! But as the drivers gear up for this desert showdown, a few surprises and controversies are already making headlines.
NASCAR Cup Series:
The Cup Series qualifying promises an intense battle, with practice starting at noon ET and single-car qualifying at 1:10 p.m. ET on Saturday. The drivers are grouped based on a metric, with Alex Bowman (48) leading the pack in Group 1, followed by Erik Jones (43) and Chase Briscoe (19). But here's where it gets interesting: Kyle Busch (8), Denny Hamlin (11), and Joey Logano (22) are further down the list in Group 2. Will this affect their race strategy? Only time will tell.
O'Reilly Auto Parts Series:
Friday night's qualifying for this series will see Josh Williams (92) at the top of the list, followed by Daniel Dye (52) and Blake Lothian (35). But the real story here is the mix of experienced drivers and rookies. Keep an eye on William Byron (88), a series rookie and the only ineligible driver for points, starting in 19th position. And this is the part most people miss: the series veteran, Justin Allgaier (7), is surprisingly low on the list at 36th. Could this be a strategic move, or is it a reflection of the intense competition?
As the qualifying orders are set, the stage is ready for a thrilling weekend of racing. But with such a competitive field, anything could happen. Who will rise to the challenge and secure the top spots? Will the qualifying positions impact the race outcomes? Share your predictions in the comments, and let's discuss the strategies these drivers might employ to gain an edge in this desert duel!
