ARCA Phoenix Preview: Championship Battle Heats Up in the Desert

The ARCA Menards Series West is set to race at Phoenix Raceway on October 17 for the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100, a 100 lap event that marks the finale of the 2026 season. This race will feature championship points and momentum as the series enters its final two events. The one-mile oval course at Phoenix presents challenges with its changing racing lines, tight corners, and opportunities for aggressive moves on restarts.

Trevor Huddleston enters the penultimate race holding a 40 point lead over Robbie Kennealy in the championship standings. Huddleston has a chance to further solidify his position before the season finale. Kennealy, too, is familiar with Phoenix, having secured three consecutive top-10 finishes there, including a sixth-place result last year. Both drivers will need strong performances to make significant strides in the championship battle on Saturday.

Max Reaves, returning with Joe Gibbs Racing, and Pinnacle Racing Group will field Helio Meza and Taylor Reimer for the race. Meza, who earned a pole in his ARCA Menards Series West debut at Las Vegas, brings momentum to another major opportunity. Carson Brown, known for his strong history at Phoenix, secured victory in the ARCA Menards Series race at the track in March, leading all 157 laps from the pole.

The race presents opportunities for restarts, tire management, and track position, as these factors could determine the winner. The stakes will be high, with Huddleston protecting his championship lead and Kennealy attempting to close the gap from the opening lap. The Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 promises another crucial chapter in the 2026 ARCA Menards Series West season, with the championship battle potentially intensifying before the series concludes.