iRacing updated the NASCAR O’Reilly Series for 2026 Season 2. The update brings a new rules package, engine changes, and visual updates. If you race the O’Reilly Series, here is what changed.
The 2026 Rules Package for the NASCAR O’Reilly Series
The 2026 rules package sets the technical baseline for the season. Two specifications define it. Ride height minimum is now 4.25 inches. Rear camber is set at 2.2 degrees.
These specifications match the real-world 2026 rules NASCAR introduced for the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. As a result, iRacing updated the sim cars to reflect those standards.
Engine and Drafting Changes
iRacing updated engine power and drafting parameters for the O’Reilly Series cars. These changes affect how the cars behave in traffic.
Drafting behavior in pack racing will feel different compared to previous seasons. Superspeedways and intermediate tracks are where the changes show most clearly. If you raced the O’Reilly Series cars in 2025, plan for a test session before your first race. That way, you will understand the updated aero package before mixing it in a pack.
Visual and Branding Updates
Several visual changes come with this update. Branding and contingency decals now reflect the 2026 sponsor agreements. Additionally, iRacing removed driver names from the rear window.
iRacing also adjusted collision hulls at the front and rear to better match the updated body shape. A fix resolves car images not generating correctly in Replay files. Previously, images were appearing as placeholders in the replay browser. That issue is now fixed.
The Series Name Change
In real life, NASCAR renamed the Xfinity Series to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for 2026. O’Reilly Auto Parts became the title sponsor of the second-tier series.
The iRacing version carries the same name. When you search for the series in the iRacing UI, look for O’Reilly rather than Xfinity.
What to Expect on Track
The rules package changes matter most for regular O’Reilly Series drivers. Ride height and camber adjustments affect handling balance in long-run conditions.
On road courses, however, the impact is smaller. The cars still handle like stock cars on road layouts. The updates are real but will not require a full setup rebuild.
On ovals and superspeedways, the drafting changes are more significant. Therefore, a test session before your first race is worth the time. Knowing how the car drafts in a pack will help you avoid surprises in race conditions.
The series runs across short tracks, intermediate ovals, and superspeedways throughout the season. Check the Series page in the iRacing UI for the current schedule.
