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Bristol Today
By the People, for the People
NASCAR Returns to Bristol for Food City 500
Cup Series heads to iconic short track for high-intensity race
Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:31am
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The iconic Bristol Motor Speedway promises an intense, contact-filled NASCAR race that will test the skills of the top drivers in the sport.Bristol TodayAfter a brief Easter break, the NASCAR Cup Series is back in action this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee. The Food City 500 will bring the drivers to the iconic short track, known for its steep banking, tight racing, and raucous atmosphere.
Why it matters
Bristol is considered one of the most challenging and exciting tracks on the NASCAR calendar, often producing intense, contact-filled races that can shake up the championship standings. As one of the few remaining short tracks on the schedule, the Food City 500 is a highly anticipated event for both drivers and fans.
The details
The Food City 500 will feature 500 laps around the 0.533-mile Bristol oval, with stages ending on laps 125, 250, and 500. Passing is notoriously difficult at Bristol, putting a premium on qualifying well and managing tires throughout the long race.
- The Food City 500 is scheduled for Sunday, April 12, 2026.
- The race is set to begin at 2:00 PM local time (Eastern).
The players
Bristol Motor Speedway
A 0.533-mile short track located in Bristol, Tennessee that has hosted NASCAR events since 1961. It is known for its steep 30-degree banking and intense, contact-filled racing.
What’s next
Fans will be eager to see if any drivers can break through and score a victory at the challenging Bristol track, which could have major implications for the NASCAR Cup Series championship battle.
The takeaway
The return of NASCAR to Bristol Motor Speedway for the Food City 500 promises high-intensity short track racing that will test the skills and strategies of the top drivers in the sport.
