CORONADO, Calif. — Corey Heim earned the first NASCAR Cup Series victory of his career on Sunday, winning the inaugural Cup race held on the streets of Naval Base Coronado near San Diego after overtaking fellow 23XI Racing driver Tyler Reddick in the closing laps, according to NASCAR and race officials.
The 23-year-old Georgia native captured the checkered flag in only his 13th start in NASCAR’s premier series, becoming the third first-time Cup winner of the 2026 season. The race marked NASCAR’s debut at the San Diego street circuit, a 3.4-mile, 16-turn course laid out on roads and runways at the active naval installation.
Heim, driving the No. 67 Toyota, overcame an eventful start to the race after making contact with the wall on multiple occasions during the early stages. Despite concerns about tire wear and vehicle damage, he remained in contention throughout the afternoon before closing on Reddick during the final laps. Heim took the lead with two laps remaining and pulled away to secure the victory.
“I’m speechless,” Heim said after the race. “Maybe I knocked some good into the car. I have no idea.”
Reddick, who started from the rear of the field after unapproved adjustments to his car, finished second after leading late in the race. “First and foremost, congratulations to Corey,” Reddick said, according to post-race comments. “I thought I was going to be able to hold him off there.”
Kyle Larson finished third and praised Heim’s performance. “Awesome job by Corey Heim,” Larson said. “He’s a super talented race car driver, and it's neat to see somebody get their first win.”
The race was marked by several incidents, including a multi-car crash on Lap 32 that eliminated pole-sitter Shane van Gisbergen, who had entered the event as a favorite after securing the top starting position. NASCAR officials temporarily halted the race to repair barriers following the accident.
The San Diego event was created as part of celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Navy and the United States. Organizers said the race drew competitors to a unique venue that became the first active military base to host a NASCAR Cup Series event.
As of Monday, Heim’s victory stood as his first Cup Series win and strengthened expectations ahead of his planned move into a full-time Cup ride with 23XI Racing in 2027. NASCAR’s next Cup race is scheduled for Sonoma Raceway in California.
