NASCAR Bristol Qualifying Decides Starting Lineup

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. discusses Tennessee's new motorsports program ahead of Food City 500

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:43pm

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A fractured, geometric painting in bold colors depicting the chaotic energy of a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway, with cars and the track broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes.A cubist interpretation of the high-intensity action at Bristol Motor Speedway, where NASCAR drivers compete for the best starting position in the upcoming Food City 500.Bristol Today

The NASCAR Cup Series Bristol race weekend kicked off with practice and qualifying sessions to set the starting lineup for the upcoming Food City 500. Ricky Stenhouse Jr., a NASCAR driver, commented on the new motorsports program at the University of Tennessee, Rocky Top Racing, ahead of the race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Why it matters

Bristol Motor Speedway is one of the most iconic and challenging tracks on the NASCAR circuit, with its high-banked turns and short straightaways. Qualifying well is crucial for drivers to have the best chance of winning the race. Stenhouse's comments on Tennessee's new motorsports program also highlight the growing importance of collegiate-level racing initiatives.

The details

The NASCAR Cup Series drivers competed in practice and qualifying sessions at Bristol Motor Speedway to determine the starting lineup for the upcoming Food City 500 race. Ricky Stenhouse Jr., a veteran NASCAR driver, spoke about the University of Tennessee's new motorsports program, Rocky Top Racing, and its potential impact on the sport.

  • The NASCAR Cup Series Bristol race weekend began on April 11, 2026.
  • Qualifying sessions were held to set the starting lineup for the Food City 500 race.

The players

Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

A NASCAR driver who commented on the University of Tennessee's new motorsports program, Rocky Top Racing.

Rocky Top Racing

The University of Tennessee's new motorsports program that aims to develop future talent in the sport.

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What they’re saying

“It's great to see the University of Tennessee getting into motorsports with their new Rocky Top Racing program. Developing young talent is crucial for the future of our sport.”

— Ricky Stenhouse Jr., NASCAR Driver

What’s next

The NASCAR Cup Series drivers will compete in the Food City 500 race at Bristol Motor Speedway on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The takeaway

The NASCAR Bristol race weekend showcases the importance of qualifying well at one of the most challenging tracks on the circuit. Stenhouse's comments on Tennessee's new motorsports program also highlight the growing efforts to nurture the next generation of racing talent.