Bristol Motor Speedway: From MLB to NASCAR, a Race Against Time

BRISTOL, Tenn. – Following the thrilling matchup between the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, the clock began a new countdown. The transformation of the “last Great Colosseum” from a baseball field to its original configuration for NASCAR races is a logistical challenge. The goal is to be ready for the playoff race on September 13th. The MLB’s first regular season game in Tennessee drew a record crowd of 91,032 spectators. Now, the circuit must regain its racing essence.

It’s difficult, but they are things we like. It poses a challenge for us and we like challenges.

Steve Swift, Senior Vice President of Operations at Speedway Motorsports

Major League Baseball, with the help of BaAM, built everything from complete locker rooms for the Braves and the Reds, including showers, gyms, coaches’ offices, and batting cages, to grandstands along the baselines and broadcast booths. The conversion to a baseball diamond required 17,500 tons of gravel to level the infield and 340 tons of Pennsylvania clay for the playing surface. Rebuilding the concrete walls takes time, including proper curing time.

As soon as the final release is launched, the final hit is connected, the teams do their thing, take care of the postseason, they will begin to remove the wall protections and work all night to basically dismantle so we can reassemble for the NASCAR race.

Steve Swift

Part of the gravel will be used in Bristol’s parking lots. Groups have been found to help use some of the materials to help people still recovering from the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. This includes wood and plywood used for the stands.

Many things are going to be put to good use with respect to the reconstruction part. We just need to get them out of the way so we can put asphalt and concrete back.

Steve Swift

The deadline to complete the renewal is September 7, with a few days to spare.

There may still be some paint drying when the Goodyear transporters arrive, but we will definitely aim for (September 7th).

Steve Swift

Bristol has already demonstrated its ability to host major sporting events, including a college American football game in 2016 that attracted 156,990 people. Now, the NHL could be in Bristol’s future, after Sportico reported that league officials would be reviewing how the circuit handled the MLB event.

We have shown with soccer and now with baseball that things can take place and we can do things that no one would think of.

Steve Swift