NASCAR returns to Bristol for Food City 500

Here's how to watch the Cup Series race at the iconic Tennessee speedway.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:20am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the intense racing action at Bristol Motor Speedway, with cars and the track breaking down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and form.The chaotic, high-banked corners of Bristol Motor Speedway provide the perfect canvas for a cubist interpretation of the NASCAR action.Bristol Today

The NASCAR Cup Series is back in action this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway for the Food City 500. Known as one of the loudest and toughest tracks on the schedule, Bristol always provides exciting racing, and this year's spring event should be no different. Veteran driver Kyle Larson will look to defend his victory from last year, but he'll face stiff competition from points leader Tyler Reddick as well as Denny Hamlin and Chase Elliott.

Why it matters

Bristol is a crucial race on the NASCAR calendar, as its unique high-banked layout and short-track characteristics often produce unpredictable and thrilling action. The Food City 500 is a must-watch event for NASCAR fans, and the outcome could have major implications on the season-long championship battle.

The details

The Food City 500 will take place on Sunday, April 12 at 3 p.m. ET. The race will be broadcast nationally on FS1, and fans can also stream the action live on fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. The starting lineup features several top contenders, including points leader Tyler Reddick, past Bristol winner Kyle Larson, and perennial championship threats Denny Hamlin and Chase Elliott.

  • The Food City 500 will take place on Sunday, April 12 at 3 p.m. ET.

The players

Tyler Reddick

The current points leader in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Kyle Larson

The defending champion of the Food City 500, having won this race last year after leading 411 laps.

Denny Hamlin

A perennial championship contender who could be a factor at the high-banked Bristol Motor Speedway.

Chase Elliott

Another top driver who has found success at Bristol and will be looking to challenge for the win.

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The takeaway

The Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway is always a must-watch event for NASCAR fans, as the high-intensity short-track racing often produces thrilling finishes and unexpected outcomes. This year's spring race should be no exception, with several top drivers vying for the victory on one of the sport's most iconic and challenging tracks.