In a stunning turn of events for racing enthusiasts, the Bristol Dirt race, a recent addition to the NASCAR Cup Series calendar, will not be making a return in 2024. This decision marks the end of a short-lived yet memorable era in NASCAR history, as the half-mile Bristol Motor Speedway was temporarily transformed into a dirt track, breaking a 70-year tradition.
The ambitious project to bring dirt racing back to NASCAR garnered mixed reactions from fans, drivers, and insiders alike. It all began in 2021, when the motorsport world witnessed the NASCAR Cup Series cars taking on the challenging dirt surface at Bristol. Joey Logano emerged as the victor of the inaugural event, leaving an indelible mark on the history of this unique race.
The Bristol Dirt race made a comeback in 2022, this time taking place under the floodlights on Easter Sunday. In a twist of fate, it was Kyle Busch who stole the spotlight, earning his final win as a driver for Joe Gibbs Racing. The race took a dramatic turn when Tyler Reddick and Chase Briscoe collided in front of Busch on the final lap, leading to a nail-biting finish that saw Busch inheriting the victory.
In 2023, the dirt at Bristol witnessed yet another triumph for Joe Gibbs Racing, as Christopher Bell crossed the finish line first, securing a significant win for his team.
As the NASCAR calendar turns its attention to Bristol once again, this time on the familiar concrete surface for the annual Round of 16 playoff cutoff race, fans might wonder about the future of dirt racing at this iconic venue. The good news is that Bristol will retain both of its race dates next year. However, there’s a catch – the specific dates for 2024 have yet to be finalized, as the official schedule has not been released.
Speaking about the return of the Food City 500, Bristol Motor Speedway’s President and General Manager, Jerry Caldwell, expressed his excitement, saying, “As the motorsports world focuses on America’s Night Race tomorrow, we are thrilled to announce Bristol Motor Speedway will host the return of the Food City 500 on the concrete high-banks of the World’s Fastest Half Mile in the spring of 2024.”
In a nod to nostalgia, Caldwell added, “We will revive a logo reminiscent of the first Food City 500s in the early ’90s and resurrect the track’s vintage trademark look and feel of the era. We’re looking forward to a great weekend of racing and what’s to come in 2024.”
It’s worth noting that Bristol has been a fixture on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule since 1961, traditionally hosting two races every year. While the dirt experiment might be shelved for now, the rich history and exciting racing at Bristol Motor Speedway continue to captivate fans, promising more thrilling moments in the years to come. NASCAR enthusiasts will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the schedule for 2024, eagerly awaiting the return of racing action at this iconic track.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dirt Racing at Bristol
What was the significance of the Bristol Dirt race in 2021?
The Bristol Dirt race in 2021 marked the first time in 70 years that the NASCAR Cup Series raced on dirt. Bristol Motor Speedway was transformed into a half-mile dirt track, making it a historic event in the world of NASCAR.
Who won the inaugural Bristol Dirt race in 2021?
Joey Logano emerged as the winner of the inaugural Bristol Dirt race in 2021, securing a memorable victory on the newly converted dirt track.
How did the Bristol Dirt race fare in 2022?
In 2022, the Bristol Dirt race returned, this time held under the lights on Easter Sunday. Kyle Busch won the race, which also turned out to be his final victory as a driver for Joe Gibbs Racing.
Who won the most recent Bristol Dirt race in 2023?
The most recent Bristol Dirt race in 2023 was won by Christopher Bell, representing Joe Gibbs Racing. Bell crossed the finish line first, adding another victory to his team’s impressive record.
Will the Bristol Dirt race return in 2024?
No, the Bristol Dirt race will not be making a return in 2024. The race will revert to the traditional concrete surface, but specific dates for 2024 have not been finalized, pending the release of the official NASCAR schedule.
How long has Bristol Motor Speedway been on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule?
Bristol Motor Speedway has been a part of the NASCAR Cup Series schedule since 1961. Traditionally, it has hosted two races each year, making it a longstanding and iconic venue in NASCAR history.
What changes can fans expect for the Food City 500 in 2024?
In 2024, the Food City 500 will return to the Bristol Motor Speedway on its traditional concrete surface. The event will also feature a nostalgic touch, with a logo reminiscent of the early ’90s and a vintage trademark look and feel from that era.
More about Dirt Racing at Bristol
- NASCAR Official Website
- Bristol Motor Speedway Official Website
- NASCAR Cup Series History
- Joey Logano NASCAR Profile
- Kyle Busch NASCAR Profile
- Christopher Bell NASCAR Profile
- Bristol Motor Speedway Racing History
- NASCAR 2024 Schedule (Pending)
- Food City 500
- Jerry Caldwell – Bristol Motor Speedway President and General Manager
