Key Takeaways
- Pocono Raceway earned the top spot in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice for three straight years.
- The venue, originally opened in 1969 and reshaped into its “Tricky Triangle” in 1971, celebrates its historic roots.
- President Ben May highlighted the award as a tribute to fans, staff, partners, and the local community.
- The 2026 race weekend runs June 12‑14, featuring ARCA, Xfinity, and Cup Series events, with the Cup race streamed on Amazon Prime. – The article situates Pocono among the other nine tracks recognized for fan‑driven excellence across the sport.
Award Recognition Details
USA TODAY’s annual 10BEST Readers’ Choice accolade honors the nation’s most fan‑favorite NASCAR venues, and Pocono Raceway has secured the number‑one position for three consecutive years. This distinction reflects sustained enthusiasm from the readership and underscores the track’s ability to deliver a premier experience year after year. The award not only celebrates the track’s operational excellence but also reinforces its status as a flagship destination for NASCAR enthusiasts nationwide.
Historical Background of Pocono Raceway
Pocono Raceway first opened its gates in 1969 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, and quickly became a cornerstone of American motorsports. In 1971, visionary designers transformed the original layout into the iconic triangular configuration that fans now affectionately call “The Tricky Triangle.” This unique shape presents drivers with three distinct turns, each modeled after famous corners from other renowned tracks, creating a challenging yet thrilling racing environment that has endured as a staple of NASCAR’s schedule.
President Ben May’s Perspective
Pocono Raceway President Ben May expressed profound pride in the repeated recognition, describing it as both an honor and a testament to the track’s enduring appeal. He emphasized that the award belongs to the fans whose passion for “The Tricky Triangle” fuels every facet of the venue’s operations. May also highlighted the team’s commitment to delivering a first‑class experience and acknowledged the critical support of partners and the surrounding community, reinforcing a shared sense of accomplishment.
Upcoming Race Weekend Schedule
The 2026 race weekend at Pocono is slated for the second weekend in June, commencing on June 12 with an ARCA Menards Series event. The following day, June 13, will host the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, formerly known as the Xfinity Series, providing a full slate of competitive racing. The weekend culminates on June 14 with the Cup Series showcase, the Great American Getaway 400 presented by VISITPA, which will be streamed live on Amazon Prime for the second year in a row, expanding accessibility for viewers worldwide.
Broadcast and Media Coverage
The Cup Series finale at Pocono will be televised on Amazon Prime, marking the second consecutive year that the streaming platform will carry the race. This partnership underscores a growing trend of digital distribution in motorsports, offering fans flexible viewing options across multiple devices. The broadcast arrangement is expected to enhance audience engagement, providing high‑quality coverage that highlights the unique challenges of the triangular layout while showcasing the skill of the competing drivers.
Broader Context Within the 10BEST Rankings
Pocono’s ascension to the top spot places it ahead of nine other esteemed tracks, including Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas; Las Vegas Motor Speedway; Watkins Glen International; Richmond Raceway; Darlington Raceway; Martinsville Speedway; Daytona International Speedway; New Hampshire International Speedway; and Talladega Superspeedway. Each of these venues brings its own distinct characteristics to the NASCAR ecosystem, yet Pocono’s consecutive victories illustrate a sustained preference among readers for its blend of historic significance and competitive racing environment.
Significance for Fans and Partners
The repeated recognition resonates deeply with the fan base, reinforcing a sense of loyalty and shared identity tied to Pocono’s storied track. For partners and sponsors, the award serves as a powerful validation of their investment, highlighting the venue’s ability to attract large, enthusiastic audiences and deliver measurable marketing returns. Community stakeholders also benefit from increased visibility, which can translate into economic growth for the surrounding region through tourism, hospitality, and related ventures.
Future Outlook and Community Impact
Looking ahead, Pocono Raceway aims to build on this momentum by continuing to enhance fan experiences, expand interactive programming, and foster deeper connections with its community. Planned improvements to facilities, combined with innovative race formats, are expected to maintain the track’s competitive edge both on and off the track. Ultimately, the accolade not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for ongoing excitement, ensuring that “The Tricky Triangle” remains a beloved landmark in American motorsport for years to come.