IMSA: 2026 Sahlen's Six Hours of The Glen
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IMSA Fan's Guide to the 2026 Sahlen's Six Hours of The Glen
The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship returns to the legendary Watkins Glen International from June 25-28 for one of the most anticipated endurance races in North America: the Sahlen's Six Hours of The Glen. The six-hour race serves as a critical round of the Michelin Endurance Cup and often plays a major role in determining championship contenders. The main event begins Sunday, June 28 at 12:10 PM ET and runs deep into the afternoon as GTP, LMP2, GTD Pro, and GTD machinery battle around the 3.4-mile road course. (IMSA)
Why Watkins Glen Is Special
"The Glen" is one of the fastest and most rewarding circuits in North America. Unlike many modern tracks, it flows naturally through the terrain, combining high-speed esses, heavy braking zones, and dramatic elevation changes. Drivers spend much of the lap committed at speeds well over 150 mph, especially through the famous Esses and down the Back Straight. A small mistake can cost seconds—or end a race. Multi-class traffic only adds to the challenge. (IMSA)
Best Places to Watch IMSA
Turn 1 (The Ninety)
If it's your first visit, start here.
You'll see:
The race start
First-lap chaos
Late-braking overtakes
Pit exit action
The grandstand overlooking Turn 1 provides one of the best views of the entire facility and offers a great perspective on how aggressive drivers are willing to be on cold tires.
The Esses
Arguably the most impressive section of the circuit.
Stand near the fencing entering the Esses and you'll witness GTP prototypes dancing over the curbing at astonishing speeds. The sound and speed difference between prototypes and GT cars is most noticeable here.
The Inner Loop (Bus Stop Chicane)
This is where drivers earn their paycheck.
The Bus Stop is one of the most aggressive braking zones on the track. Drivers arrive at nearly top speed and must throw the car through the curbs while navigating traffic. Mistakes are common, especially late in the race when fatigue sets in.
Turn 10
A hidden gem for photographers and hardcore fans.
You'll see:
Cars fighting for grip
Drivers setting up overtakes
Excellent views of several corners
Many longtime Glen regulars consider this one of the most underrated viewing locations.
Best Overtaking Zones
1. Turn 1
The primary passing opportunity.
Cars draft down the front straight before diving into the heavy braking zone. Expect numerous moves in every class.
2. Bus Stop Chicane
The bravest drivers attack here.
GTP cars frequently use traffic to create opportunities entering the Bus Stop. Late-race passes often happen in this section.
3. Turn 6 Exit
Drivers carrying momentum through the Carousel can set up overtakes heading toward the Esses and Back Straight.
Race Weekend Schedule
Thursday
The support series arrive and begin practice sessions. This is one of the best days to explore the paddock with fewer crowds. (IMSA)
Friday
The first IMSA WeatherTech Championship practice takes place, giving fans their first look at the GTP cars. Mustang Challenge, Porsche Carrera Cup, and Lamborghini Super Trofeo also race throughout the day. (IMSA)
Saturday
Possibly the best day for dedicated fans.
You'll get:
Final IMSA practice
WeatherTech qualifying
Michelin Pilot Challenge race
Additional support races
Qualifying often provides some of the fastest laps of the entire weekend. (IMSA)
Sunday
Race day.
The six-hour endurance classic begins at 12:10 PM ET. Strategy, weather, traffic management, fuel mileage, and driver changes all become critical factors as the afternoon unfolds. (IMSA)
Insider Tips for First-Time Fans
Walk the circuit. Watkins Glen rewards fans who move around during the race.
Spend at least one hour in the paddock. IMSA offers some of the best fan access in motorsports. General admission includes paddock and garage access. (Watkins Glen International)
Bring hearing protection. Modern GTP cars are still incredibly loud at trackside.
Download the IMSA app for live timing and scoring.
Bring comfortable walking shoes—the Glen is much larger than it appears on television.
Don't stay in one spot all day. Watch the start at Turn 1, spend the middle stint at the Bus Stop, and catch the finish from the front stretch.
What to Watch in 2026
The GTP class remains the headline attraction with manufacturers including Porsche, Cadillac, BMW, Acura, and Lamborghini battling for overall victory. Watkins Glen's combination of speed, endurance, and traffic management makes it one of the toughest tests of the season, and many drivers consider a Six Hours of The Glen victory second only to winning the Rolex 24 at Daytona on the IMSA calendar.
For fans making the trip to the Finger Lakes, expect one of the best racing weekends in North America—fast cars, incredible access, and six hours of nonstop multi-class racing on one of motorsport's greatest circuits. (Watkins Glen International)
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