After a relatively quiet August, September 2026 is set to be a thrilling month for racing and sim racing fans. With a variety of new games and updates on the horizon, there’s something for everyone to look forward to. From the charming Hot Wheels Infinite Rush to the highly anticipated NASCAR 26 the month is packed with exciting releases.
The racing world is buzzing with anticipation as several highly anticipated titles and updates are set to hit the tracks. Whether you’re into arcade-style racing or realistic simulations, September has a lot to offer. Let’s dive into the highlights that will keep you behind the wheel all month long.
New Releases to Rev Your Engines
September kicks off with a bang as Hot Wheels Infinite Rush hits the streets on the 10th. Developed by Milestone, this new entry in the beloved Hot Wheels series takes a fresh approach, offering four miniature islands filled with events, challenges, and collectibles. Think of it as a blend of Hot Wheels UnleashedForza Horizon and Burnout Paradise. With its charming presentation and accessible difficulty, it’s perfect for younger players but promises to be a blast for all ages.
On the 15th, the Gold Edition of NASCAR 26 will be released, followed by the Standard Edition on the 18th. Now under the helm of iRacing Studios this official American stock car racing game series brings significant improvements. Expect overhauled tyre and braking physics, dynamic track surfaces, and the debut of the real-world championship’s ten-round Chase format. While the enhancements are promising, the question remains whether they justify a full-priced sequel rather than a free patch update for NASCAR 25.
Rounding out the month, MXGP 26 is set to release on the 28th (Fox Holeshot Edition) and the 1st of October (Standard Edition). After the less-than-stellar reception of MXGP 24 KT Racing and Nacon are hoping to redeem the series with this new installment. Switching to the Unreal Engine the visuals are a significant upgrade, and the revamped riding physics felt more responsive in previews. However, the lack of a traditional career mode outside of standard championships might impact its long-term appeal.
Sim Racing Updates and Enhancements
For sim racing enthusiasts, iRacing is rolling out its Season 4 2026 update on the 9th. This substantial update introduces the highly anticipated Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH Hypercar which has been in development for over a year. Joining the roster are two Caterhams the 420R and Academy. Additionally, several tracks, including Road AmericaMid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Milwaukee Mile will receive new laser scans, while Summit Point Raceway and Road Atlanta get much-needed visual enhancements.
The Forza Horizon 6 British Automotive update (Series 5) drops on the 10th, bringing a fresh batch of festival playlist challenges. This update introduces six new cars, including the debut of the Bentley Continental GT SpeedGinetta G40 Junior and Vauxhall Astra VXR in a Forza Horizon game. While some prize cars were already in the game as Wheelspin rewards, the new additions and the introduction of a custom ‘Forza Edition’ of the Jaguar XJ-S in the Shimanoyama Circuit’s Drift Attack mode are exciting prospects.
Assetto Corsa Rally continues to evolve with its upcoming 0.6 update, expected to arrive in September. This update will add several new cars, including the Audi QuattroPeugeot 206 WRC and Volkswagen Polo GTI R5. Additionally, a long-awaited photo mode for capturing thrilling moments, multiplayer private lobbies, and custom liveries will be introduced. The addition of custom liveries is touted as the first step towards modding support, which is sure to excite the modding community.
In the wake of the divisive Joker system and new netcode issues, Le Mans Ultimate is set to release a significant update in late September. This update aims to address a spate of bugs, design issues, and underlying problems. It will coincide with the release of a new DLC pack containing two US circuits, following the success of the initial pack, which included Daytona and Laguna Seca.
INDYCAR Season Finale and iRacing Special Events
The NTT INDYCAR Series season concluded with the Grand Prix of Monterey at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on September 6, 2026. Scott McLaughlin secured victory, with Kyle Kirkwood and Alexander Rossi rounding out the podium. The race was not without its drama, including a caution caused by a collision between Sting Ray Robb and Dennis Hauger, and a thrilling battle for position throughout the 95 laps.
For iRacing enthusiasts, Week 13 of the 2026 Season 3 offers a variety of special events and weekly racing series. The iRacing Suzuka 1000 is one of the highlights, featuring an annual sports car endurance race at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan. Other notable series include the NASCAR iRacing SeriesiRacing Grand Prix Tour and the new iRacing DTM Series. These series offer a range of racing experiences, from stock cars to open-wheel formula cars, catering to both solo racers and teams.
With so much to look forward to, September 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable month for racing and sim racing fans. Whether you’re diving into new releases or enjoying the latest updates, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and engaged. So, buckle up and get ready to hit the tracks!
