Bristol, Tennessee, August 1, 2025
News Summary
Major League Baseball is bringing an unprecedented event to Bristol, Tennessee with its first game at a racetrack. The Atlanta Braves will face the Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 2. This unique event aims to set a new attendance record with over 85,000 tickets sold. The MLB is partnering with several sponsors and artists to enhance the fan experience, marking a significant milestone in sports history.
Bristol, Tennessee to Host Historic Major League Baseball Game
Major League Baseball (MLB) is set to make history as it prepares for its first-ever game in Tennessee at the MLB Speedway Classic. The game will feature the Atlanta Braves squaring off against the Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway on Saturday, August 2, at 7:15 p.m. ET. This pioneering event marks the first occasion that a professional baseball game has taken place at a professional racetrack, and it is expected to smash the previous all-time single-game attendance record with over 85,000 tickets already sold.
The previous attendance record for a regular-season MLB game was set in 1954, when 84,587 fans gathered at a game. With a capacity of about 90,000, Bristol Motor Speedway is well-equipped to host this monumental event. MLB is dedicated to using this unique platform to attract a younger and more diverse fan base by incorporating elements familiar to NASCAR enthusiasts.
Event Planning and Partnerships
Planning for this innovative MLB game began four years ago, with initial discussions commencing in 2021. To ensure successful execution, the MLB worked alongside various partners, including architects, a professional turf company, and broadcasting partner Fox. The title sponsorship for the event has been secured through BuildSubmarines.com, alongside other notable sponsors.
Significant alterations have been made to Bristol Motor Speedway to accommodate the baseball field. Among these changes, the demolition of a building created necessary space for the diamond. MLB has conducted extensive feasibility studies to confirm the viability of hosting a baseball game at the racetrack. The layout for the baseball field has been meticulously planned, measuring 400 feet to center field, while accounting for sun positioning and existing structures.
Fan Experience and Additional Features
Beyond the baseball game, MLB is curating a fan experience zone that will include musical performances by popular artists such as Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen. The MLB aims to present stunning aerial shots of home runs landing on the NASCAR track, enhancing the visual experience for viewers and fans in attendance.
In preparation for the event, MLB has also created temporary infrastructures to provide adequate power and water supplies for team needs during the game. Stands and amenities similar to those found in a standard MLB ballpark have been constructed for players, ensuring they have everything necessary for a comfortable game day experience.
MLB is optimistic that this event will not only create unforgettable memories for attendees but also serve as a significant milestone in the history of baseball.
Key Event Details
- Date: August 2, 2023
- Time: 7:15 PM ET
- Teams: Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds
- Location: Bristol Motor Speedway, Tennessee
- Expected Attendance: Over 85,000
Historical Context
This event continues MLB’s trend of engaging fans with unique event formats. Previous successes, such as the Field of Dreams games held in Iowa, demonstrate the potential for breaking traditional barriers to expand baseball’s reach. By connecting fans from the realms of both NASCAR and baseball, MLB aims to enhance the overall experience and foster new relationships among sports audiences.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams are playing in the historic MLB game in Tennessee?
The Atlanta Braves will face off against the Cincinnati Reds.
When and where is the game taking place?
The game is scheduled for August 2, 2023, at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee, starting at 7:15 PM ET.
What is the expected attendance?
Over 85,000 tickets have been sold, which is expected to break the MLB’s single-game attendance record.
Will there be any entertainment at the event?
Yes, there will be a fan experience zone featuring musical performances by Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen.
Event Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Date | August 2, 2023 |
| Location | Bristol Motor Speedway, Tennessee |
| Teams Playing | Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds |
| Expected Attendance | Over 85,000 |
| Capacity of Venue | Approximately 90,000 |
| Entertainment | Performances by Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen |
| Aerial Visuals | Showcasing home runs landing on a NASCAR track |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bristol Motor Speedway Readies for MLB Speedway Classic
MLB Speedway Classic to Set New Attendance Record
Bristol Hosts Historic MLB Speedway Classic with 85,000 Fans Expected
Historic MLB Game Set for Bristol, Tennessee
MLB Speedway Classic Set to Break Attendance Records
Speedway Classic to Set MLB Attendance Record in Bristol, TN
Bristol Community Remembers a Beloved Educator and Veteran
Bristol Motor Speedway to Host Historic MLB Game
Paul Goldschmidt Reflects on Costly Error in Yankees’ Loss
Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds to Compete at Bristol Motor Speedway
Additional Resources
- CNBC
- Wikipedia: Bristol Motor Speedway
- New York Times
- Google Search: MLB Speedway Classic Bristol
- USA Today
- Google Scholar: MLB Speedway Classic
- WJHL
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Baseball Speedway Classic
- Front Office Sports
- Google News: MLB Bristol Motor Speedway
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.
