The iconic Bristol Motor Speedway had earlier announced that it would no longer continue racing on its dirt track this season. They decided to change the nature of the track to its familiar concrete for the spring racing fest. Bristol Motor Speedway had undertaken an ambitious initiative to rejuvenate its racing outlook, and eventually attract more audience. The half-mile oval track was covered with red Tennessee clay, transforming it into a dirt track. However, this bold initiative took a backseat even after it urged enough anticipation among the community.
This change was met with mixed reviews, and over time, the racing track fell short of expectations. The drivers too began to grow tired of the concept, saying the prep to manage a dirt track was terrible. Amidst the talks of the upcoming race and a new aspect of the track, Chase Elliot also weighed in with his views.
Chase Elliott can see both sides of the argument regarding BMS
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Chase Elliott opened up to Fronstretch, expressing his views regarding the changing nature of the Bristol track. He gave a pretty diplomatic answer, stringing different thoughts together in a balanced way. Elliot was all praises for the BMS track and mentioned that the changing nature does not affect its grandeur. He further added that he understands why they decided to come up with this plan after spending a good three years on dirt. However, the driver ended his statement with a touch of sarcasm.
Elliot said, “I really don’t, um you know, I can see both sides of the argument for sure. But I think overall, Bristol is a pretty good track on our circuit. Comparatively speaking to some other places that probably needs dirt less, needs the help less, than uh some other tracks. So I think Bristol will be totally fine.” He added, “Whether it’s dirt or concrete, you know, whatever it may be. So I’m good with it being concrete just from the standpoint of I think it was a pretty big headache for them to do that”.
Speedway Motorsports, LLC (SMI) indeed spent a hefty amount for the track to have its old look back. Not only that, there were time-consuming processes of massive dirt removal, sawdust protection removal, and pressure washing that were looked after.
“And obviously cost them a lot of money to get that dirt in there, and get it out and cleaned up and stuff. Not really so sure what exactly they gained at the end of the day by doing it. I don’t know maybe it comes back one day maybe it doesn’t, but I think Bristol is a healthy place regardless,” Elliot said.
Read More: Chase Elliott Admits Failure at His “Worst Track” as HMS Teammates Have Decoded Las Vegas
The iconic Bristol Motor Speedway over the years
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Since the track’s inception in 1961, it has witnessed a lot of fierce competition among NASCAR drivers. It is one of the tracks where numerous legendary races took place and drivers like Rusty Wallace gained prominence. Wallace won 9 times on BMS, which made him a track legend. The nickname “The Last Great Colosseum,” further solidifies its grandeur and iconic status in the racing universe.
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At Bristol Motor Speedway, fans enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. It allows them to be right in the heart of the action. Whether camping in the infield, meeting drivers during autograph sessions, or soaking up the racing culture, fans have an immersive experience
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Bristol’s legendary night races are other-worldly too. Floodlights cast an electric glow, igniting roaring engines, sparking excitement, and enveloping the stands in passionate fervor. It’s an unforgettable spectacle that leaves fans breathless.
The Bristol Motor Speedway is set to hold a couple of races two weeks from now, including the Food City 500 on the 17th of March. Let us see if the renovated concrete track yields better results than last time.