Bristol Motor Speedway Celebrates 65 Years of Racing

NASCAR's iconic short track kicks off a new era with the 750 horsepower era and a return of fan favorites.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:12am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, depicting the chaotic energy and motion of a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway, with cars and track elements broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and form.Bristol Motor Speedway's iconic high banks and tight turns are deconstructed into a cubist masterpiece, capturing the raw power and intensity of NASCAR racing at its most legendary short track.Bristol Today

Bristol Motor Speedway, known as the 'Last Great Colosseum', is celebrating 65 years of legendary NASCAR racing this weekend. The historic Tennessee track is kicking off a new era with the introduction of the 750 horsepower cars, while also welcoming back fan favorites like Mark Martin. Up-and-coming driver Sam Mayer looks to redeem himself on the Bristol high banks, and retired PRN announcer Doug Rice provides expert insight on the weekend's events.

Why it matters

Bristol Motor Speedway is one of the most iconic and beloved tracks in NASCAR. Its high-banked, short-track layout produces some of the most thrilling and unpredictable racing all season. As the sport evolves with new car technology, Bristol remains a must-see event that showcases the raw power and skill of NASCAR's top drivers.

The details

This weekend's race marks 65 years since the first event was held at Bristol Motor Speedway in 1961. The track is ushering in a new era with the introduction of the 750 horsepower cars, which are expected to produce even more intense and competitive racing on the high-banked oval. Up-and-coming driver Sam Mayer will look to redeem himself after a disappointing finish in his last Bristol appearance, while retired PRN announcer Doug Rice will provide expert analysis and insight on all the weekend's events.

  • Bristol Motor Speedway first opened in 1961.
  • The 65th anniversary race at Bristol is taking place this weekend.

The players

Bristol Motor Speedway

One of the most iconic and beloved short tracks in NASCAR, known for its high-banked layout and thrilling racing.

Tyler Reddick

A rising star in NASCAR who is currently one of the hottest drivers on the circuit.

Mark Martin

A fan favorite and NASCAR legend who is returning to Bristol, the track where he found much of his success.

Sam Mayer

A young up-and-coming driver looking to redeem himself after a disappointing finish in his last Bristol appearance.

Doug Rice

A retired PRN announcer who will provide expert analysis and insight on the weekend's events at Bristol.

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What they’re saying

“Bristol is just such an iconic track, and I'm so excited to be a part of the 65th anniversary celebration this weekend.”

— Mark Martin

“The new 750 horsepower cars are really going to put on a show at Bristol. I can't wait to see how the drivers handle all that power on the high banks.”

— Doug Rice, Retired PRN Announcer

What’s next

Fans can look forward to an action-packed weekend of racing at Bristol Motor Speedway, with the main event taking place on Sunday afternoon.

The takeaway

Bristol Motor Speedway remains one of the most thrilling and unpredictable venues in NASCAR. As the sport evolves, the historic track continues to deliver must-see racing that showcases the skill and power of the top drivers in the sport.