NASCAR Drivers Eager for Bristol Return

Larson and others ready to race after rare weekend off

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:55am

A fractured, multi-perspective painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric planes of bright red, blue, and yellow, conceptually representing the intense, close-quarters racing of a NASCAR event at Bristol Motor Speedway.The intense, close-quarters racing that defines NASCAR events at Bristol Motor Speedway is captured in a cubist, geometric interpretation.Bristol Today

After a rare weekend outside of a race car, defending NASCAR champion Kyle Larson returns to Bristol Motor Speedway eager to get back on the track. Larson expects the rest of the field to be just as eager to climb behind the wheel for Sunday's race at the Tennessee track.

Why it matters

The Bristol race is a highly anticipated event on the NASCAR calendar, with the short track known for its intense, close-quarters racing. Drivers and fans alike look forward to the action and excitement of the Bristol event, which often produces dramatic finishes.

The details

Larson, the defending NASCAR Cup Series champion, had a weekend off from racing for the first time in a while. But he's raring to get back on the track at Bristol, one of the most challenging and thrilling venues on the NASCAR circuit.

  • The NASCAR Cup Series returns to action this Sunday, April 13, 2026 at Bristol Motor Speedway.

The players

Kyle Larson

The defending NASCAR Cup Series champion who is eager to get back on the track at Bristol.

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What they’re saying

“After a rare weekend outside of a race car, I'm really looking forward to getting back on the track at Bristol. The intensity and excitement of racing at Bristol is unmatched, and I expect the rest of the field will be just as eager to get out there and put on a great show for the fans.”

— Kyle Larson, Defending NASCAR Cup Series Champion

What’s next

Drivers will take to the track for practice and qualifying sessions on Saturday, April 12th, ahead of the main race on Sunday, April 13th.

The takeaway

The return of NASCAR to Bristol Motor Speedway is always a highly anticipated event, with the short track's intense racing action and dramatic finishes drawing legions of loyal fans. Drivers like defending champion Kyle Larson are eager to get back on the track and put on a show for the crowd.