Chase Elliott, one of NASCAR’s star drivers, encourages new fans to experience the Bristol Motor Speedway night race, highlighting this event as an ideal introduction to the sport. Speaking recently, Elliott emphasized that his Bristol Night Race recommendation stems from its unique atmosphere and the perspective it offers on what drivers contend with each weekend.
NASCAR’s Racing Landscape and the Allure of Short Tracks
While superspeedway events such as the Daytona 500 and Talladega have a tradition of captivating fans, recent seasons in the Next Gen era have shifted focus toward intermediate tracks, where current cars perform most effectively. This shift has meant that classic short tracks and superspeedways, at least in the early stages of races, sometimes take a backseat. Nevertheless, Elliott stands by short tracks and urges that newcomers should make a point of attending a race at one.
Bristol Night Race’s Special Appeal According to Elliott
Elliott regards the Bristol Motor Speedway night event as one of NASCAR’s most treasured races, even as Gen 7 cars have altered the amount of passing that occurs. Under the current parity-focused rules, some feel the action at these venues has changed, but the electricity remains for Elliott, who still views the night spectacle as unmissable. On a recent BobbyCast episode, Elliott said:
“It’s only a half mile, so it’s a pretty small place. But to me, it’s not so much about the track there as it is about the experience. I just think it is such a great place to go watch a race. Like anytime my friends ask me, where should we go or meet somebody for the first time, getting them into NASCAR and they want to come check it out, I always say the Bristol Night Race, truthfully.”
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
He emphasized that the experience at Bristol provides fans with a true appreciation of the skill required by the drivers, especially when witnessing the event in a stadium-like setting. The rarity of night races in NASCAR and the close-quarters racing make this event particularly thrilling. Elliott noted that he grew up valuing the focus and energy found in Bristol’s night races, and he believes they continue to showcase those qualities.
Recent and Upcoming Races at Bristol
Earlier this year, Bristol motor speedway saw a race where Larson dominated, leading for 411 of the 500 laps, while Elliott finished in fifteenth place. The next Bristol Night Race is set for September 13, forming the third event in the Round of 16 during NASCAR’s playoff schedule. Elliott, with an average finish of 11.3 at Bristol, enters this phase with reason for confidence, though his focus will first need to be on upcoming races at Darlington and Gateway, which precede the Bristol showdown in the opening playoff round.
What Makes the Bristol Night Race Stand Out
Chase Elliott’s endorsement and personal passion for the Bristol Night Race underline why many consider it a ‘crown jewel’ of NASCAR. Its distinctive setting, the intensity of night racing, and stadium atmosphere combine to offer an unforgettable introduction for newcomers and a perennial highlight for long-time fans. With another chance for a dramatic contest on September 13, all eyes will again be on this iconic short track as NASCAR’s postseason unfolds.
