About Bristol Motor Speedway
Welcome to The Last Great Colosseum. Home to the legendary Thunder Valley, this iconic venue is where speed, excitement, and tradition come together to create unforgettable experiences for race fans of all ages.
Beginnings
Founded by Larry Carrier and Carl Moore in 1961, initial plans for the track were sketched on napkins over dinner.
After being handed over to an architect, the track was completed in six months.
With finishing touches being made just days before, the iconic oval’s first NASCAR race was held on July 30, 1961, won by Jack Smith with Johnny Allen’s relief help.
Stars on the Track
Bristol Motor Speedway hosts races in several NASCAR touring series, with victories claimed by legends like Dale Earnhardt Sr., Dale Jr., Richard Petty, and Jeff Gordon, just to name a few.
Nighttime Thrills
The historic facility, forged amid the scenic mountains of Northeast Tennessee near the Virginia state line, earned its reputation for producing incredible finishes during its most storied event, referred to as "America’s Night Race".
The iconic "Night Race", first held in 1978, celebrates its 46th anniversary in 2024 as a pivotal elimination race in the Cup Series Playoffs.
Fan Experience
At Bristol Motor Speedway, fans aren't just spectators – they are part of the action. Known as NASCARs loudest track, Bristol creates an unparalleled fan experience. Feel the energy at Bristol as some of baseball’s most electrifying stars take the field.
While fans enjoy races, they experience Colossus TV – the world's largest four-sided outdoor video screen with a 540,000 watt system.
Tradition Lives On
In 2025, Bristol Motor Speedway starts a whole new chapter as it plays host to a regular season MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds.
August 2, 2025
Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol, Tennessee