Bristol, Tennessee, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Bristol Motor Speedway is set to host a thrilling NASCAR weekend, featuring the highly anticipated Bass Pro Shops Night Race on Saturday. Fans can expect intense competition as drivers like Kyle Larson, who has performed strongly in previous races, take the spotlight. The weekend also marks the start of the Xfinity Series Playoffs with the Food City 300 on Friday night. With new faces entering the race and previous champions ready to contend, excitement is in the air for this major motorsport event.
Bristol, Tennessee: NASCAR Weekend Set to Kick Off
The Bristol Motor Speedway will be the center of attention as it gears up to host a thrilling tripleheader race weekend starting Thursday. The highlight, the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, is scheduled for Saturday night and is anticipated to be an exhilarating event for racing fans.
Driver Kyle Larson, representing Hendrick Motorsports, is emerging as the favorite for the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, especially after his impressive performance earlier this year at Bristol. In April, Larson won both the Cup and Xfinity Series races during the same weekend, leading a staggering 411 of 500 laps in the Cup race and 277 of 300 laps in the Xfinity race. His successful track record at Bristol has solidified his reputation as a top contender this weekend.
Meanwhile, Joe Gibbs Racing drivers, including Chase Briscoe and Denny Hamlin, are in great shape as they have shown dominance in the playoffs, clinching victory in the previous race. Hamlin, coming off a win at World Wide Technology Raceway, along with other competitive drivers, is looking to challenge Larson’s lead in the Cup Series.
On Friday night, the race weekend will also feature the start of the Xfinity Series Playoffs with the Food City 300. Current season champion Connor Zilisch leads the pack with a 59-point advantage over the elimination cutline. Taylor Gray sits in the final provisional playoff spot but is tied with Carson Kvapil. Several drivers, including Sheldon Creed and Harrison Burton, may face elimination based on their performance.
This weekend will also see some new faces in the competition. Brenden Queen is making his Xfinity debut with the No. 11 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet, while Jeffrey Earnhardt returns to the No. 24 Sam Hunt Racing Toyota for his third race of the season. Additionally, Josh Williams will transition to the No. 45 Alpha Prime Racing Chevrolet.
The Bristol Motor Speedway will serve as the backdrop for the elimination race in the NASCAR Cup Series, marking a critical point in the season for all participants. Drivers like Chase Elliott, who finished third at Gateway and has a previous win at Bristol, are also expected to make an impact. Meanwhile, Christopher Bell has shown steady improvement with hopes of a strong showing at Bristol.
Another interesting story is Corey Heim, a 23-year-old driver for 23XI Racing, who will compete in both the Cup and Truck Series races. Heim’s performance at Bristol earlier this year included a P3 finish in the Truck Series, adding to the interest surrounding his potential for a full-time Cup Series ride next season.
Racing enthusiasts can expect to catch all the action live as the events will be broadcast on The CW.
Key Points of the Upcoming Race Weekend
- Tripleheader race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway begins Thursday.
- Main event, the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, is set for Saturday evening.
- Kyle Larson is the favorite after winning both the Cup and Xfinity Series races in April.
- Joe Gibbs Racing drivers Chase Briscoe and Denny Hamlin recently dominated the playoffs.
- Xfinity Series Playoffs start with the Food City 300 on Friday night.
- New drivers making appearances include Brenden Queen and Jeffrey Earnhardt.
Background Context
Bristol Motor Speedway is known for its short track and highly competitive races, making it a fan favorite in the NASCAR calendar. Larson’s prior successes at this venue have only heightened expectations and excitement ahead of the weekend’s races. Additionally, the dynamic nature of NASCAR playoffs adds tension and anticipation, as participants fight for every point towards a future championship.
FAQ Section
When is the Bass Pro Shops Night Race taking place?
The Bass Pro Shops Night Race is scheduled for Saturday evening during the Bristol Motor Speedway weekend.
Who are the favorites to win the upcoming races?
Kyle Larson is the favorite for the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, while Chase Briscoe and Denny Hamlin are notable competitors after recent successes.
What other events will occur during the weekend?
Alongside the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, the weekend will feature the Xfinity Series Playoffs beginning with the Food City 300 on Friday night.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Bass Pro Shops Night Race |
| Date | Saturday evening |
| Favorite Driver | Kyle Larson |
| Other Race | Food City 300 |
| Leading Driver in Xfinity | Connor Zilisch |
| Broadcast Channel | The CW |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bass Pro Shops Night Race Set to Impact NASCAR Playoffs
Bristol Motor Speedway Prepares for Night Race
Brenden Queen to Make NASCAR Xfinity Series Debut
Mayer and Creed Gear Up for NASCAR Playoffs After Tough Race
Denny Hamlin Secures Victory at Enjoy Illinois 300
Brenden Queen to Debut in NASCAR Xfinity Series
Bristol Hosts 11th Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
Abingdon Community Remembers Four Cherished Residents
Bristol to Host Autograph Session with Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Historic Attendance Record Set at MLB Speedway Classic
Additional Resources
- NASCAR: Xfinity Series Entry List
- Wikipedia: NASCAR
- NASCAR: Cup Series Entry List
- Google Search: NASCAR Bristol Motor Speedway
- NASCAR: Truck Series Entry List
- Google Scholar: NASCAR Playoffs
- Frontstretch: NASCAR Bristol Entry Lists
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol Motor Speedway
- Heavy: Bass Pro Shops Night Race Entry List
- Google News: Bass Pro Shops Night Race
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
