NASCAR’s triumphant return to Rockingham brings back high-speed action to Rockingham Speedway after years of waiting. But that’s not the only big change. A special train service is set to make this event even more exciting. Thanks to a key partnership, travel to the track will be easier than ever. With two major races on the schedule and a familiar name returning to competition, this weekend is shaping up to be unforgettable. The full story unfolds at Rockingham Speedway.
Key Highlights
- NASCAR returns to Rockingham Speedway with Xfinity and Truck Series races after a decade-long absence.
- A special train service from Raleigh to Rockingham enhances accessibility for NASCAR fans.
- The train service is a collaboration between NCDOT and Amtrak to minimize travel hassles.
- The schedule includes the Black’s Tire 200 on April 18 and the Education Lottery 250 on April 19.
- Kasey Kahne’s comeback adds excitement to Rockingham’s race events, attracting fan interest.
NASCAR Returns to Rockingham Speedway with Special Train Service
As NASCAR gears up for its much-anticipated return to Rockingham Speedway, fans are in for a special treat with a new train service designed to improve their race-day experience.
The historic one-mile oval, absent from premier racing events for a decade, is set to host the NASCAR Xfinity and Truck Series once again. This return is facilitated by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) in collaboration with Amtrak, marking an important milestone in the track’s storied history.
Rockingham Speedway, which last saw the Cup and Xfinity Series in 2004 and the Truck Series in 2013, has undergone extensive renovations to accommodate the thrilling races ahead.
The newly introduced train service aims to boost accessibility for fans, minimizing travel hassles and maximizing enjoyment. As excitement builds around the event, this initiative highlights a commitment to delivering a seamless and memorable experience for spectators at the rejuvenated venue.
NCDOT Partners with Amtrak for Special Train Service
Recognizing the success of previous transportation efforts, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has teamed up with Amtrak to introduce a special train service tailored for NASCAR fans heading to Rockingham Speedway.
Inspired by the Open Express’s achievements last year, which efficiently transported golf fans between Raleigh and Pinehurst for the U.S. Open, this new venture promises a similar seamless experience for racing enthusiasts. On Saturday, April 19, a dedicated train will run from Raleigh Union Station directly to the speedway, ensuring a stress-free and convenient travel option.
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
State Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, highlighting the ongoing collaboration with Amtrak and Rockingham Speedway.
“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. Special trains like this provide the chance to introduce even more people to the amazing passenger rail service available in our state.” – (joey hopkins)
Amtrak Vice President Ray Lang also emphasized the convenience this service offers, making the trip to the iconic North Carolina event more accessible.
Rockingham Speedway Set to Host NASCAR Action
With the new train service underway, NASCAR fans are gearing up for an exciting weekend at Rockingham Speedway, which is set to host major racing events.
The historic track will welcome the return of NASCAR with two prominent races: the Black’s Tire 200 Truck Series event on Friday, April 18, at 5:00 PM ET, followed by the North Carolina Education Lottery 250 Xfinity Series race on Saturday, April 19, at 4:00 PM ET.
These events highlight NASCAR’s commitment to rejuvenating Rockingham Speedway, a venue steeped in stock car racing history. The track, affectionately known as “The Rock,” has long been a favorite among fans and drivers for its challenging layout and storied past.
Kasey Kahne Returns to NASCAR at Rockingham
Kasey Kahne’s return to NASCAR at Rockingham Speedway is a thrilling event for racing fans. The former Hendrick Motorsports driver will make his comeback in the Xfinity Series, piloting the #33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet.
Kahne retired in 2018, but his history at Rockingham is impressive, having finished runner-up in a Cup Series race and winning a Truck Series event in 2012.
During a recent test session, Kahne felt a sense of familiarity, telling NASCAR.com that being at the track and interacting with the crew felt “pretty normal” despite his long absence. This familiarity adds comfort and confidence to his return.
“A lot of familiar faces. It didn’t feel like I hadn’t been here in six years, I know that. Even just hanging out in the trailer, behind the trailer for the first half-hour, hour this morning waiting to get going, it just felt pretty normal. It didn’t feel too different.” – (Kahne)
Fans enthusiastically anticipate his performance in the North Carolina Education Lottery 250 on April 19. The race will be broadcast live on The CW, MRN, and SiriusXM, allowing fans nationwide to witness Kahne’s exciting return.
News in Brief: NASCAR’s Triumphant Return to Rockingham
The return of NASCAR to Rockingham Speedway is thrilling fans, especially with the added excitement of a special train service. Partnering with Amtrak, the NCDOT is making it easier for fans to reach the historic track, enhancing the comprehensive race day experience.
As Kasey Kahne makes his comeback, anticipation is at an all-time high. This collaboration not only revives a legendary racing venue but also highlights creative ways to connect fans with the action, ensuring memorable moments for all.
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