Denny Hamlin Suggests NASCAR Schedule Bristol Spring Race at Night

The NASCAR driver believes the Bristol spring race would be better suited for primetime under the lights.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:13pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives conveying the raw energy and intensity of the event.A cubist interpretation of the high-intensity action and drama that often unfolds under the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway.Bristol Today

NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin has suggested that the Bristol spring race would be better suited for a primetime, night-time slot rather than its current daytime schedule. Hamlin believes the race would benefit from the cooler track conditions and more energized crowd that often accompany Bristol's night races, and that the timing after the Masters golf tournament could also boost viewership. However, Hamlin acknowledged the logistical challenges of a Sunday night race, such as school schedules. The debate over NASCAR's scheduling and optimal time slots for marquee races has been an ongoing conversation in the sport.

Why it matters

Bristol Motor Speedway is known for producing some of NASCAR's most intense and memorable moments, especially in night races where the cooler temperatures and energized crowd can elevate the on-track action. Hamlin's suggestion taps into a long-running debate within NASCAR about maximizing viewership and showcasing the sport's biggest events at the most optimal times.

The details

Hamlin floated the idea that the Bristol spring race could be better suited for a primetime, night-time slot rather than its current daytime schedule. He believes the race would benefit from the cooler track conditions and more energized crowd that often accompany Bristol's night races, and that the timing after the Masters golf tournament could also boost viewership. However, Hamlin acknowledged the logistical challenges of a Sunday night race, such as school schedules for families.

  • The Bristol spring race is currently held during the daytime.
  • Hamlin suggested the race could be better suited for a primetime, night-time slot.

The players

Denny Hamlin

A NASCAR driver who has suggested that the Bristol spring race would be better suited for a primetime, night-time slot rather than its current daytime schedule.

Ty Gibbs

Hamlin's teammate who recently captured his first career Cup Series victory at Bristol, further underscoring the track's ability to produce compelling racing regardless of the time slot.

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What they’re saying

“We should have raced at night. I think the only way we could have, or should have, is if we were on Prime.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver

“I was thinking about it, too. Like, man, after the Masters, I'm sure the ratings would've been better. It would have been one that was nice on an old Sunday night.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver

“You know, kids got school and stuff like that. There's just so much that plays into it.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver

“You know what? Just be really, really good at your sport and the people will come.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver

“For the last five-six weeks, he's been someone that's been in the top five to eight. … Running as good or better than that.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver

What’s next

NASCAR officials will likely evaluate Hamlin's suggestion and consider the potential benefits and challenges of moving the Bristol spring race to a primetime, night-time slot.

The takeaway

Hamlin's comments highlight the ongoing debate within NASCAR about maximizing viewership and showcasing the sport's biggest events at the most optimal times. While a night race at Bristol could elevate the on-track action, the logistical challenges of a Sunday night event must also be carefully considered.