ALTON, Va. – One of North America's most historic road-racing championships returns to one of its most challenging circuits this weekend as the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelliheads to VIRginia International Raceway (VIR) for a pivotal late-season round of the 2026 championship. The event takes place September 17-20 and is expected to draw a strong field of competitors across the series' multiple classes.

The race weekend marks the penultimate stop on the 2026 Trans Am National Championship schedule, raising the stakes for drivers still battling for championships as the season enters its final stretch. VIR has long been regarded as one of the premier road courses in North America, featuring a demanding 3.27-mile layout, 17 turns, dramatic elevation changes, and several high-speed sections that reward both horsepower and precision.

Fans attending the event will experience the thunderous sound and speed that have made Trans Am a fan favorite for nearly six decades. The series features a diverse field of American muscle and GT machinery, including Mustangs, Camaros, Challengers, Corvettes, and other purpose-built race cars competing across the TA, TA2, XGT, SGT, and GT classes.

VIR's reputation as a driver's track ensures exciting racing throughout the weekend. The circuit's combination of long straights and technical corners creates multiple passing opportunities while challenging drivers to balance aggression with patience. The famous climbing esses, Oak Tree section, and roller-coaster-like elevation changes have produced memorable moments throughout the venue's history and are expected to play a major role in determining this weekend's winners.

Beyond the Trans Am action, the Racing America at VIR weekend offers a full motorsports festival atmosphere. Spectators will also see competition from the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA), International GT, and open-wheel development series, while enjoying paddock access and opportunities to get up close to cars and drivers. Organizers describe the event as a family-friendly celebration of both modern and historic motorsports.

With championship aspirations hanging in the balance and one of America's most iconic road courses serving as the battleground, all signs point to a dramatic weekend of racing in southern Virginia. As the Trans Am Series continues its 60th-anniversary season, VIR once again provides the perfect stage for high-speed competition before the championship finale later this fall.

Event at a Glance

  • Event: Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli
  • Venue: VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, Virginia
  • Dates: September 17-20, 2026
  • Track Length: 3.27 miles
  • Configuration: 17 turns
  • Championship Position: Penultimate round of the 2026 National Championship
  • Featured Classes: TA, TA2, XGT, SGT, GT

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