Bristol Motor Speedway

History of Bristol Motor Speedway

Bristol Motor Speedway, located in Bristol, Tennessee, began construction on January 25, 1961, and officially opened on July 23 of the same year. Initially called Bristol International Speedway, it was renamed Bristol International Raceway in 1978 and became Bristol Motor Speedway in 1996. The track was developed by Larry Carrier and has been managed by Speedway Motorsports, LLC (SMI) since 1996.

The track features a 0.533-mile oval layout with steep banking—24 to 28 degrees in the turns and 5 to 9 degrees on the frontstretch—designed for high-speed racing and close competition. It initially had a seating capacity of 21,000 and included amenities such as a press box and around 10,000 parking spaces.

Significant expansions in the 1990s increased the capacity to 162,000, making it one of NASCAR’s largest venues. As of 2024, the capacity stands at 146,000. The addition of Colossus TV, a 30-by-63-foot screen, enhances the spectator experience.

Bristol Motor Speedway is a key venue in the NASCAR Cup Series, hosting major races like the Food City 500 and the Bass Pro Shops Night Race. It is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and challenging racing conditions.

 About the Track

Opened on July 23, 1961, Bristol Motor Speedway was initially named Bristol International Speedway. It was renamed Bristol International Raceway in 1978 and became Bristol Motor Speedway in 1996. The track is a 0.533-mile concrete oval with steep banking—24 to 28 degrees in the turns and 5 to 9 degrees on the frontstretch.

A temporary dirt oval configuration was introduced in 2020, maintaining the same length but with a clay surface and modified banking. The facility, constructed at a cost of $600,000, is currently owned and operated by Speedway Motorsports, which acquired it in January 1996.

Originally featuring a capacity of 21,000 seats, the track has expanded significantly. By 2024, it accommodates 146,000 spectators, down from a peak of 162,000. A notable feature is Colossus TV, a 30-by-63-foot screen located over the center of the track.

Bristol Motor Speedway is renowned for major NASCAR events like the Food City 500 and the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, and is celebrated for its high-energy atmosphere and exciting racing.