Start your engines, because NASCAR Cup Series racing may be returning to Music City. 🏎
Plans to revitalize the 117-year-old Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway + bring the series back have been presented to Mayor Cooper by Bristol Motor Speedway — both to which he agreed in principle.
The deal would bring a modernized track, transform the speedway into a multipurpose entertainment venue, and generate an estimated $100 million in annual revenue.
If approved, Bristol Motor Sports would lease, manage and operate the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway for a 30-year term.
Speedway enhancements would include a 30,000-seat grandstand, noise mitigation efforts that are estimated to reduce sound impact to neighboring residents by 50%, and limited racing and practice days. The renovations would be funded by 30-year revenue bonds from the Metro Sports Authority.
Following a financial review, the plans will be presented to the Board of Fair Commissioners for consideration. If the deal is approved, it will be submitted to Metro Council and the Sports Authority.
The revitalized track, which is the second-oldest operating motor speedway in the country, would neighbor Nashville SC’s stadium slated to open in May 2022.