On This Day in NASCAR

May 3

11
Total Races
8
Cup Races
2
O'Reilly Races
1
Truck Races

May 3 has been a memorable date on the NASCAR calendar, with 11 races held across all three national series from 1953 to 2026. From the roar of engines at legendary tracks to the battle for championships, this date has seen its share of drama. Browse the full history below, or check out all race results for deeper dives into each season.

2020s

Year Race Winner Series
2026 Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY Chase Elliott Cup
2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series at Texas Kyle Larson NXS

2010s

Year Race Winner Series
2019 JEGS 200 Johnny Sauter CWT
2015 NASCAR SPRINT CUP SERIES AT TALLADEGA Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Cup
2014 NNS at Talladega Pres. By Victory MotorCycles Elliott Sadler NXS

2000s

Year Race Winner Series
2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Richmond Clint Bowyer Cup
2003 Pontiac Excitement 400 Joe Nemechek Cup

1990s

Year Race Winner Series
1998 California 500 presented by NAPA Mark Martin Cup

1950s

Year Race Winner Series
1959 Virginia 500 Lee Petty Cup
1958 100 Miles at Greenville-Pickens Speedway Jack Smith Cup
1953 150 Miles at Langhorne Speedway Buck Baker Cup

Frequently Asked Questions

What NASCAR races happened on May 3?
There have been 11 NASCAR races held on May 3 across Cup (8), O'Reilly (2), and Trucks (1) series, from 1953 to 2026.
How many NASCAR races have been held on May 3?
11 total NASCAR races have been held on this calendar date across all three national series.
Which NASCAR series are included on this page?
This page includes races from all three NASCAR national series: the Cup Series, the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity/Busch), and the Craftsman Truck Series.

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