Dale Earnhardt Jr is calling on NASCAR to rethink its caution rules for the upcoming race at the Qualcomm Circuit inside Naval Base Coronado in San Diego.

What's the issue?

The NASCAR Hall of Famer believes lengthy caution periods could disrupt the flow of the race and reduce green-flag action on the 3.4-mile street circuit.

Why it matters for Dale Earnhardt Jr

Dale Earnhardt Jr argued that officials should adopt a more patient approach when deciding whether to throw a caution flag, especially in situations where a stranded car is not posing an immediate safety risk to competitors.

What comes next?

NASCAR reporter Jordan Bianchi reported that NASCAR will try to speed up caution periods in San Diego to minimize the caution flags, due to the length of the Coronado circuit.

Dale Earnhardt Jr is hopeful that NASCAR is already discussing how they will officiate the inaugural race at the Naval Base Coronado street-style circuit.
He suggested that if a caution occurs shortly before a stage end, officials could simply end the stage early and immediately begin the caution cycle.

The inaugural NASCAR weekend at the 3.4-mile street circuit features several specific events across NASCAR's all-three national series, starting with Friday's Truck Series Navy 250, followed by O'Reilly Auto Parts Series United Rentals Driven to Serve 250 on Saturday, and concluding with Cup Series Anduril 250 on Sunday.
Dale Earnhardt Jr shared his concerns about the San Diego race on his “Dale Jr. Download” podcast.

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season heads to the Qualcomm Circuit this weekend, and Dale Earnhardt Jr believes NASCAR should adjust its caution procedures to ensure more green-flag action.
He said: “If I was NASCAR, I would definitely change my protocols slightly. I would just be more stingier. I'd be more patient, I suppose, with throwing the yellow.”

Dale Earnhardt Jr shed light on a potential solution that would allow NASCAR to avoid lengthy interruptions.
He suggested that officials could throw the stage green checker and start the caution cycle immediately if a caution occurs shortly before a stage end.

The NASCAR Cup Series Anduril 250 is scheduled to take place on Sunday at the Qualcomm Circuit.
Dale Earnhardt Jr's suggestions come as NASCAR prepares for its inaugural race at the Naval Base Coronado street-style circuit.