Brad Keselowski made headlines this weekend after securing pole position for the All-Star Race and winning his heat, but away from the track, he sparked debate about the future of NASCAR’s marquee events by sharing strong opinions on Charlotte Motor Speedway. Addressing the media before the main event, Keselowski advocated for a major shift, urging NASCAR to eliminate the Charlotte Roval race and return the All-Star Race to the Speedway’s oval—moves he believes are vital for the sport’s growth and fan engagement.
During a press conference, Brad Keselowski emphasized that North Wilkesboro Speedway, the current site of the All-Star Race, deserves a full points race. North Wilkesboro reappeared on the Cup calendar in 2023 for the exhibition but has not seen a points-paying Cup event since 1996.
“I think this needs to be a points racetrack,”
Keselowski stated, referencing the venue’s deep roots dating back to NASCAR’s inaugural 1949 season. However, his vision goes beyond simply upgrading North Wilkesboro’s role in the schedule.
Turning his attention to Charlotte, Brad Keselowski argued for the All-Star Race to return to its longtime home—Charlotte Motor Speedway’s oval—where it ran annually from 1987 to 2019. He passionately described the Speedway oval as “a great racetrack,” critiquing its current use for just a single Cup event each season.
“That’s my personal opinion. I think the Charlotte racetrack, particularly since it only has one race on the oval, I think that’s a miss for our sport. It’s a great racetrack and puts on some of the best racing, so it would make sense to me if we were to revert back to that and make this a season race, and probably get rid of a race like the Roval or something like that,”
Keselowski explained.
The Roval, an infield road course at Charlotte, currently features as the Round of 12 elimination race during the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Despite its dramatic layout and moments of excitement, Brad Keselowski maintained a critical view. When a reporter noted it “has produced some moments,” Keselowski responded pointedly,
“Has it really? I look at the stands and there are more fans that come to the oval race and better ratings, too, than come to the Roval races. I thought that’s what we judge the sport by. I’m very strong about the Roval has got to go.”
Keselowski’s statements have fueled intense discussion among fans and drivers about tradition versus innovation in NASCAR’s scheduling. If his recommendations are acted upon, the changes could significantly reshape not only future playoff dynamics but also the value of Charlotte Motor Speedway itself. As the debate continues, many are watching to see whether NASCAR leadership will heed Brad Keselowski’s calls or maintain the current lineup, leaving the future of both the All-Star Race and the Roval under scrutiny.
