The roller coaster Stardust Racers at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe resumed operations on March 25, following an extended closure that began in February. The reopening followed several schedule adjustments and weeks of inspection and maintenance work. Universal Orlando stated that the closure was for a planned annual inspection and maintenance process.
Epic guests immediately got back in line for their chance to race among the stars.
According to the Universal Orlando app, Stardust Racers has reopened to the public and is posted at a 50 min wait. @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/AKxru5AQMX
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) March 25, 2026
Stardust Racers is a dual-launch racing coaster located in the Celestial Park area of Epic Universe. The attraction features two parallel tracks designed for side-by-side racing. It is one of the park’s major thrill rides and plays a central role in its lineup of attractions.
Recent Maintenance and Delays
The ride closed on February 19, 2026, for a planned inspection and maintenance period. Universal Orlando did not provide detailed public updates about the scope of the work. However, temporary closures for inspection are standard practice for large-scale attractions.
Stardust Racers at Epic Universe – Photo Credit: Universal Orlando
Initial expectations suggested a short downtime. However, the reopening date shifted several times over the following weeks. These changes extended the closure into late March.
There were reports earlier in 2026 that the attraction experienced operational interruptions. These reports have not been fully detailed by Universal in official statements. As a result, the exact factors behind the extended closure remain unclear.
Context
It is common for new attractions, especially complex coasters, to undergo adjustments during their first year of operation. Stardust Racers opened with Epic Universe in 2025, making it a relatively new ride.
However, Stardust Racers has had a rocky first year.
The most significant event occurred on September 17, 2025, when a 32-year-old rider, Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, became unresponsive after riding the coaster. He was transported to a hospital and later pronounced dead. An autopsy determined that he died from multiple blunt impact injuries, and the manner of death was ruled an accident.
Stardust Racers at Epic Universe – Photo Credit: That Park Place
Following the incident, the ride closed immediately for investigation. Authorities, including local law enforcement and state officials, reviewed the circumstances surrounding the death. Universal Orlando stated that the attraction was operating as intended at the time. After inspections and reviews were completed, the coaster reopened on October 4, 2025.
In the months that followed, multiple lawsuits were filed by other park guests who claimed they were injured while riding Stardust Racers. In December 2025, at least five separate lawsuits alleged that riders suffered severe and permanent injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, neck injuries, and neurological effects.
As of March 25, Stardust Racers has returned to regular operation. No further closures have been announced. Guests visiting Epic Universe can once again ride the popular attraction.
Are you planning to ride the reopened Stardust Racers? What do you think of the ride? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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