9 million dollar rescue plan revives Rockingham Speedway, bringing a long-awaited transformation to the historic track. A $9 million grant helped complete major upgrades, including a full repaving by December 2022. Now, after years of uncertainty, Rockingham Speedway is set for an incredible return to NASCAR’s national circuit in 2025. This revival goes beyond racing—it reshapes the track’s future. With major events on the horizon, big changes are coming. What’s next for this legendary speedway?
Key Highlights
- The $9 million grant from the American Rescue Plan funded crucial renovations at Rockingham Speedway.
- Track repaving completed by December 2022 was a pivotal step in Rockingham’s revival.
- NASCAR’s return to Rockingham in 2025 marks a significant comeback for the historic speedway.
- The Rockingham Speedway will host Xfinity and Truck Series events, rekindling its NASCAR legacy.
- The revival enhances North Carolina’s role in NASCAR’s narrative of tradition and progress.
Rockingham Speedway’s Legacy and Decline
Though it once stood as a pillar of NASCAR’s storied history, Rockingham Speedway, affectionately known as “The Rock,” experienced a gradual decline that mirrored the shifting dynamics of the racing sport.
The track, revered for its challenging, worn-out surface, tested the skill of legendary drivers like Richard Petty, Jeff Gordon, and Dale Earnhardt Sr. However, changes in NASCAR’s scheduling in 2004 led to the loss of Rockingham’s prestigious Cup Series date, a critical blow to its prominence.
The remaining race was rescheduled to a less favorable February slot, resulting in declining ticket sales and challenging weather conditions. These factors compounded, diminishing the track’s allure and leading to its eventual removal from NASCAR’s circuit.
This marked the beginning of a downturn for Rockingham, as it grappled with decreased attendance and relevance in the rapidly evolving landscape of professional racing.
Ownership Changes and the Road to Revival
Following its decline and removal from NASCAR’s schedule, Rockingham Speedway faced a turbulent period marked by financial difficulties and ownership conflicts. A failed lease agreement in 2016 led to the cancellation of races, casting doubt over the track’s future.
In 2018, a critical change occurred when Dan Lovenheim and his group acquired the speedway for $2.8 million, aiming to rekindle its former glory. This acquisition marked the beginning of a revitalization effort focused on restoring racing at the historic venue.
In an important enhancement to these efforts, the American Rescue Plan awarded a $9 million grant in 2021, earmarked for substantial renovations. This financial infusion facilitated vital improvements, including a thorough track repaving completed by December 2022.
NASCAR Returns to Rockingham in 2025
In a notable development for motorsport enthusiasts, NASCAR announced in August 2024 that Rockingham Speedway would rejoin the national racing circuit in 2025. This exciting news marks the return of a historic venue, fondly known as “The Rock,” which had been absent from the NASCAR scene for two decades.
The 2025 race weekend will feature the Xfinity Series and the Truck Series, showcasing the track’s renewed significance in the sport.
This announcement has fueled widespread excitement among fans who have long anticipated Rockingham’s revival. The track, which holds a cherished place in NASCAR history, is poised to reclaim its status as a key location on the racing calendar.
North Carolina’s “Rockingham Special” Train Service
To improve the fan experience during the NASCAR event, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division has introduced the “Rockingham Special,” a dedicated train service for race day.
This service, scheduled for April 19, departs Raleigh Union Station at 9 a.m., with stops in Cary and Southern Pines, reaching Rockingham Speedway by 11:06 a.m. The return trip facilitates a seamless race day experience, free of traffic and parking concerns. Tickets are available for $25 each way via Amtrak’s website.
This initiative highlights NCDOT’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and convenience for NASCAR fans attending the Rockingham event.
Do you think fans will take the train?
Let me know -love the idea.The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Rail Division announced today that NC By Train, the state’s passenger rail service, will run a special train from Raleigh to Rockingham Speedway for NASCAR’s return in… pic.twitter.com/O1245tGgIM
— Claire B Lang (@ClaireBLang) March 28, 2025
Success of Special Train Services and What Fans Can Expect
Building on the success of the “Open Express” train service to the U.S. Open golf tournament in 2024, the “Rockingham Special” emerges as a crucial development for NASCAR enthusiasts.
State Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins and Amtrak Vice President Ray Lang have championed this initiative, recognizing the advantages of passenger rail for large-scale sporting events. This service promises to improve the fan experience, providing a convenient and efficient travel option.
“After the overwhelming success of the Open Express to the U.S. Open in 2024, we’re thrilled to work with our partners at Amtrak and the Rockingham Speedway to provide another unique opportunity to take NC By Train to an iconic North Carolina event.” – (Joey Hopkins)
“Special trains like this provide the chance to introduce even more people to the amazing passenger rail service available in our state.” – (Joey Hopkins)
“We are delighted to work with the North Carolina Department of Transportation and other partners to offer this one-of-a-kind transportation option to the Rockingham Speedway.” – (Ray Lang)
The train is equipped with onboard amenities such as food, charging outlets, and free WiFi, combining comfort with modern necessities. This initiative not only revives the historic Rockingham Speedway but also integrates contemporary travel conveniences. Tickets are limited, available on a priority basis, encouraging early booking.
News in Brief: 9 Million Dollar Rescue Plan Revives Rockingham
The revival of Rockingham Speedway marks an important milestone in NASCAR history, driven by a $9 million rescue plan and a return of the sport to the iconic track in 2025. The introduction of the “Rockingham Special” train service improves accessibility, promising fans a seamless travel experience.
This tactical effort not only rejuvenates the speedway but also energizes the local economy, ensuring Rockingham’s legacy endures while setting a new standard for motorsport events in North Carolina.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q: Why did NASCAR stop racing at Rockingham?
A: Low attendance and a crowded market led to Rockingham’s removal from the NASCAR schedule. However, recent revival efforts raise the question: Could NASCAR return someday?
Q: When was the last NASCAR race at Rockingham Speedway?
A: Rockingham, N.C. – NASCAR last raced at Rockingham Speedway in 2004, but the historic track is now preparing for the sport’s long-awaited return.
Q: Who owns Rockingham Speedway now?
A: As of 2012, Rockingham Speedway has a 32,000-seat capacity. It is currently owned by Rockingham Properties, LLC, with majority owner Dan Lovenheim leading the group.
ALSO READ: Rockingham Speedway Revival Has NASCAR Fans Raving and Drivers Eager to Race Again
