NASCAR Tripleheader Thrills at Bristol Motor Speedway

Cup Series, O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, and Craftsman Truck Series Deliver Adrenaline-Pumping Races

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:00am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in bold, geometric shapes and vibrant colors, capturing the energy and excitement of a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway.A cubist interpretation of the intense, high-speed action at Bristol Motor Speedway, where NASCAR's top series converge for a thrilling tripleheader weekend.Bristol Today

NASCAR's biggest stars are set to take on the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway for a thrilling tripleheader weekend. The Cup Series, O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, and Craftsman Truck Series will each bring their unique brand of high-octane racing to the 'Last Great Colosseum', with tire strategy, night racing, and raw power all playing a crucial role in determining the winners.

Why it matters

Bristol Motor Speedway is one of NASCAR's most beloved and challenging tracks, known for its intense short-track racing and unpredictable outcomes. This tripleheader event showcases the diverse disciplines within the sport, from the top-level Cup Series to the up-and-coming Truck Series, offering something for every racing fan.

The details

The Cup Series race on Sunday will see drivers push the limits with 12 sets of tires, including 10 new race sets, as they battle for victory on the high-banked oval. Saturday night's O'Reilly Auto Parts Series event will bring the excitement of night racing, with 5 sets of tires, including 3 new race sets, testing the teams' tire management skills. The Craftsman Truck Series kicks off the weekend on Friday, with 4 sets of tires, including 2 new race sets, promising a display of raw power and close-quarters racing.

  • The Cup Series race will take place on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • The O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • The Craftsman Truck Series race will be run on Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Bristol Motor Speedway

The iconic 'Last Great Colosseum' and one of NASCAR's most challenging and beloved tracks, known for its intense short-track racing.

NASCAR Cup Series

NASCAR's flagship event, featuring the sport's top drivers and teams competing for the championship.

NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series

A popular NASCAR series that provides exciting racing under the lights, testing teams' tire management skills.

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

A NASCAR series featuring powerful trucks and close-quarters racing, often leading to unexpected twists and turns.

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What they’re saying

“Bristol is one of the most thrilling and unpredictable tracks on the NASCAR calendar. The tripleheader weekend is going to be an absolute must-see for any racing fan.”

— Jeff Gordon, NASCAR Hall of Famer and Analyst

“Tire management is going to be crucial this weekend. With so many sets available, teams will have to find the perfect balance between speed and longevity.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver

What’s next

Fans can look forward to the qualifying sessions and practice runs leading up to the main events, as they set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable NASCAR weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway.

The takeaway

This NASCAR tripleheader at Bristol Motor Speedway showcases the sport's diverse disciplines, from the top-level Cup Series to the up-and-coming Truck Series. With tire strategy, night racing, and raw power all playing a crucial role, this event promises to deliver an adrenaline-fueled experience for racing enthusiasts.