Speedway Classic to Set MLB Attendance Record in Bristol, TN

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Bristol, Tennessee, July 29, 2025

News Summary

The Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway is on track to break MLB’s single-game attendance record, with over 85,000 tickets sold for the Reds vs. Braves matchup. This historic event, marking the first MLB game in Tennessee, is set for August 2 and will feature a ceremonial first pitch from Hall of Famers, alongside musical performances by popular artists, promising a vibrant atmosphere and an unprecedented turnout.

Bristol, Tennessee

The upcoming Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway is set to break Major League Baseball’s single-game, regular-season attendance record, with over 85,000 tickets sold for the highly anticipated game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Atlanta Braves. Scheduled for Saturday, August 2, the event is already generating excitement among fans and sports enthusiasts alike.

This matchup is poised to shatter the previous attendance record of 84,587 fans, which was established on September 12, 1954, at Cleveland Stadium during a doubleheader against the New York Yankees. Furthermore, this game marks the first MLB game ever played in the state of Tennessee, adding significant historical value to the event. The first pitch is slated for 7:15 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on FOX Sports.

In addition to the exhilarating baseball action, the Speedway Classic will feature pregame festivities including a tribute by the U.S. Navy. Hall of Famers Chipper Jones, representing the Braves, and Johnny Bench, representing the Reds, will take the mound for a ceremonial first pitch.

Musical performances will further enhance the atmosphere, with artists such as Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen set to entertain fans throughout the day. Attendance at this unique event will bring together fans from all 50 states, along with representation from Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and nine countries across four continents, showcasing the widespread appeal of baseball.

For fans still looking to secure their spot at the historic game, tickets remain available via MLB.com/SpeedwayClassic.

Event Details:

Teams: Cincinnati Reds vs. Atlanta Braves
Date: Saturday, August 2
Location: Bristol Motor Speedway, Tennessee
First Pitch: 7:15 p.m. ET
Broadcast: FOX Sports
Ticket Sales: Over 85,000 tickets sold
Previous Record: 84,587 fans at Cleveland Stadium
Pregame Features: U.S. Navy pageantry, Hall of Fame first pitch
Musical Guests: Tim McGraw, Pitbull, Jake Owen

Context

The Speedway Classic represents a unique convergence of two American pastimes, baseball and auto racing, and demonstrates an innovative approach by MLB to engage fans in a non-traditional venue. This initiative not only caters to the longstanding tradition of baseball but also appeals to the diverse fan base that NASCAR and the Bristol Motor Speedway attract. The significance of hosting the first MLB game in Tennessee contributes to the state’s sports culture, while the record-setting attendance promises a thrilling atmosphere for all attendees.

FAQ Section

What is the Speedway Classic?

The Speedway Classic is a Major League Baseball game featuring the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves, set to take place at Bristol Motor Speedway.

When is the game scheduled?

The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 2, with the first pitch at 7:15 p.m. ET.

Where can I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased at MLB.com/SpeedwayClassic.

What is the expected attendance?

Over 85,000 tickets have already been sold, breaking the previous MLB attendance record.

Will there be any special performances during the event?

Yes, there will be musical performances by Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen, along with pregame festivities featuring U.S. Navy pageantry.

Key Features of the Speedway Classic

Feature	Details
Teams	Cincinnati Reds vs. Atlanta Braves
Date	August 2
Attendance Record	Over 85,000 tickets sold
First Pitch Time	7:15 p.m. ET
Location	Bristol Motor Speedway, TN
Broadcast	FOX Sports
Musical Acts	Tim McGraw, Pitbull, Jake Owen
Ceremonial First Pitch	Chipper Jones, Johnny Bench