The NASCAR Cup Series transitions from the exhilarating high banks of Daytona and Atlanta to the intricate twists and turns of the Circuit of the Americas for the highly anticipated Echo Park Texas Grand Prix. This event promises thrilling action, and here’s everything you need to know about the track, how to watch the race, and our predictions for the top contenders vying for victory on Sunday.

Exciting Preview of the NASCAR Cup Series at Circuit of the Americas

As the third race of the 2025 season approaches, the NASCAR Cup Series journeys to the dynamic Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. This marks the fifth visit for the series, but it’s the inaugural year on the newly introduced National Circuit, which spans a shorter 2.41-mile layout. With this significant course alteration, the question arises: will a previous champion reclaim their title, or could an emerging contender seize victory in the Lone Star State?

William Byron wins at COTA! #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/VmzGyQRwnD

— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) March 24, 2024

Detailed Race Preview of the EchoPark Texas Grand Prix

The EchoPark Texas Grand Prix features an exhilarating format consisting of 95 laps, covering a total distance of 228 miles on the Circuit of the Americas National Circuit. The race design includes stage breaks at laps 20 and 40, with the climactic final lap taking place at lap 95. Spanning 2.41 miles, the National Circuit navigates through the challenging esses and leads onto the back straightaway, notably excluding turns 7-11. This configuration promises to test the drivers’ skills and strategies throughout the event.

This weekend, the Cup Series will implement a newly developed tire compound specifically engineered for enhanced wear during runs, thereby introducing a critical element of tire management into the strategic discussions for Sunday’s race. Teams will need to carefully consider their approach to tire usage, which may significantly influence their performance and outcomes on race day.

Current NASCAR Cup Series Points Standings

Following the recent race in Atlanta, here are the latest standings in the Cup Series points leaderboard:

1. Ryan Blaney: 87
2. William Byron: 75
3. Tyler Reddick: 45
4. Austin Cindric: 68
5. Bubba Wallace: 63
6. Kyle Larson: 61
7. John Hunter Nemechek: 61
8. Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: 61
9. Alex Bowman: 59
10. Chase Elliott: 56

READ MORE: Ryan Blaney Quickly Becoming One of NASCAR’s Best Drivers

Exploring the Features of Circuit of the Americas

Established in 2011, the Circuit of the Americas is an FIA-grade 3.4-mile road course located just outside Austin, Texas. This remarkable track is designed to incorporate elements from some of the world’s top F1 circuits, with corners inspired by renowned venues such as Yas Marina, Bahrain, and Fuji Speedways. The track is celebrated for its dramatic elevation change at turn 1 and an almost mile-long back straight, providing both challenges and opportunities for drivers.

In 2025, NASCAR will utilize the National Circuit, a 2.41-mile course intended to reduce the duration of caution laps. The updated layout will require drivers to take a left turn at 6a, navigate through the infield, and execute a right turn at 6b onto the back straight, thereby modifying the racing dynamics and strategies utilized by the teams.

A new challenge awaits in the Lone Star State. pic.twitter.com/acpVAnKgiT

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 26, 2025

Top Contenders to Watch in the Upcoming Race

Despite the minor course alterations, which involve just two corners, certain drivers have emerged as favorites to clinch victory in this race. Tyler Reddick, who celebrated his first win with 23XI in 2023, demonstrates remarkable talent on road courses, making him a strong contender. The Trackhouse Racing team boasts a robust lineup of Chevrolets, including Chastain, Van Gisbergen, and debutant Connor Zilisch. Alex Bowman has proven to be the most consistent performer from Hendrick Motorsports at COTA, showcasing an impressive average finish of 4.3, further solidifying his status as a driver to keep an eye on.

Chevrolet has consistently dominated at COTA, with Tyler Reddick’s 2023 victory marking the only win for a manufacturer outside of Chevy. Many anticipate that this trend will persist, likely resulting in either a Trackhouse or Hendrick Chevrolet celebrating in victory lane once more.

READ MORE: Connor Zilisch to make Cup Series Debut at COTA, Red Bull Returns as a Sponsor

Your Guide to Watching the NASCAR Cup Series at Circuit of the Americas

Here’s the weekend TV schedule for the NASCAR Cup Series at the Circuit of the Americas:

Saturday: Cup Series Practice and Qualifying: 11:00 AM Eastern, Amazon Prime Sports

Sunday: The EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix: 3:30 PM Eastern, FOX

Stay Tuned to Last Word On Motorsports for all the latest coverage from NASCAR at Circuit Of The Americas

Featured Image Credit: Sean Gardner, Getty Images. 3/24/2024