So, you’re looking for the nascar xfinity race today what time details and probably feeling a little confused. It's January 17, 2026. You’ve got the snacks ready, the TV remote is in hand, and you’re scrolling through sports apps only to find... nothing?
Honestly, it’s because there actually isn't a race today.
I know, it's a bummer. But if you were expecting to see the Xfinity cars (now technically rebranded as the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) screaming around a track this afternoon, you’re about a month too early. The engines are still cold, the haulers are still in the shops, and the drivers are likely still on vacation or neck-deep in simulator work.
When does the 2026 season actually start?
If you want to see the real deal, you have to wait until February. The 2026 season for the newly named O’Reilly Auto Parts Series officially kicks off at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Basically, the "Xfinity" race today is non-existent because the schedule hasn't even begun. Here is the actual timing for the season opener so you can mark your calendar for real:
The United Rentals 300 (the traditional season opener) is scheduled for 5:00 PM ET on that Saturday. You’ll be able to catch it on The CW, which has taken over as the exclusive home for the series.
It’s kinda weird not having racing in January, right? Usually, this time of year is filled with "Silly Season" rumors and shop talk. This year is no different. Teams like JR Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing are finalizing their setups, but the green flag is still weeks away.
Wait, what happened to the Xfinity name?
You might have missed the news late last year, but NASCAR signed a massive deal with O’Reilly Auto Parts. For years, we got used to calling it the Xfinity Series, and before that, the Nationwide Series, and before that, the Busch Series.
Starting this 2026 season, it is officially the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
🔗 Read more: The SV Elversberg vs Heidenheim Dynamic: Why These Matchups Are a Tactical Nightmare
It’s going to take some getting used to. You’ll probably hear announcers slip up and say "Xfinity" at least a dozen times during the Daytona broadcast. Most fans I talk to are still calling it Xfinity anyway. Habit is a powerful thing in sports.
Where to watch the races in 2026
When the season finally does start, the viewing landscape looks a little different than it used to. The CW is the big player now. They aren't just doing a few races; they have the whole 33-race slate.
- The CW: This is your primary destination for every single Saturday race.
- The CW App: If you aren't near a TV, you'll need this to stream the action live.
- Radio: MRN and PRN still handle the audio broadcasts if you're stuck in the car.
If you’re desperate for some kind of racing today, you might find some local short-track action or perhaps some dirt track racing in the southern states, but as far as the national NASCAR series goes, everything is quiet. The Cup Series doesn't even start its exhibition race (The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium) until February 1st.
Common misconceptions about the January schedule
A lot of people get confused because of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. That iconic sports car race is happening later this month (January 22-25, 2026). Because people see "Daytona" and "January" in the headlines, they naturally assume NASCAR is back in action.
The Rolex 24 is an IMSA event. It’s incredible—don't get me wrong—but it’s not the stock car racing you're looking for. The Xfinity (O'Reilly) guys won't be on track until the Speedweeks festivities begin in mid-February.
What to do while you wait
Since there is no nascar xfinity race today what time to worry about, you’ve got some time to catch up on the off-season changes.
Check out the driver rosters. There have been some major shifts in who is driving for whom. Many of the young guns from the Truck Series have moved up, and some veterans have shifted teams to find more speed.
Also, keep an eye on the practice and qualifying schedules for Daytona. Usually, the cars will hit the track for the first time on the Thursday or Friday before the February 14th race. That’s when the "real" news starts breaking—who has the fastest car in the draft and who might be a dark horse for the championship.
✨ Don't miss: Travis Hunter Heisman Speech: What Really Happened on That Stage
Set a reminder on your phone for February 14 at 5:00 PM ET. That’s your actual "what time" answer. Until then, maybe go back and watch some 2025 highlights on YouTube to get your fix.
The wait is almost over, but for today, the track is silent.
Next Steps for Fans:
Download the The CW app today and ensure your local affiliate is tuned in. If you're planning on heading to Daytona in person, check the official NASCAR ticket portal immediately, as the season opener often sells out weeks in advance due to the Daytona 500 hype.
Check your local listings for any "Season Preview" specials that often air in late January to get up to speed on the new O'Reilly Auto Parts Series branding and driver changes.