Bristol, TN, July 30, 2025
News Summary
The MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway features a historic matchup between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds. With over 85,000 tickets sold, the game on August 2, 2025, is set to shatter MLB’s single-game attendance record. This will be the first MLB game played in Tennessee and the first at a racetrack, with multiple events and musical performances adding to the excitement surrounding the unique venue.
Bristol, Tennessee – The MLB Speedway Classic on August 2, 2025, is poised to shatter attendance records as it takes place at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, featuring a matchup between the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds. With over 85,000 tickets already sold, this event will break the Major League Baseball’s single-game attendance record, which stands at 84,587, set during a doubleheader at Cleveland Stadium in 1954.
This groundbreaking game marks several significant milestones, as it will be the first MLB game ever played in Tennessee and the first to be held at a racetrack. Major League Baseball anticipates that more than 80,000 fans will be in attendance, with ticket sales still ongoing and interest coming from fans across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and nine other countries.
The Bristol Motor Speedway’s maximum seating capacity is 146,000, providing ample room for a crowd. The venue has previously hosted a college football game that attracted nearly 157,000 attendees, indicating its capability to welcome a large audience. The Speedway’s unique setting for baseball is aimed at enhancing the fan experience, which has been a focal point for MLB’s recent strategies to attract new audiences by hosting games at unconventional venues.
In addition to the game itself, attendees can look forward to special attractions. Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench will throw out the ceremonial first pitches, while the entertainment lineup includes musical performances by artists like Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen. A fan zone will open at noon ET, with venue gates opening at 3 p.m. ET leading into a 7:15 p.m. ET first pitch.
MLB has been actively seeking unique venues for its games as a way to promote the sport further. Past events at unusual locations include games at Fort Bragg in 2016, Field of Dreams in 2021-22, and Rickwood Field in 2024. This year’s event in Bristol not only showcases a novel format but also serves sponsors such as BlueForge Alliance’s BuildSubmarines.com, allowing them additional exposure compared to annual events like the All-Star Game.
The logistics of constructing a baseball field at the racetrack demanded thorough planning and modifications to existing structures, signifying MLB’s commitment to innovation in promoting the sport. The league strives to create an experience that differentiates from traditional baseball games, providing unique photo opportunities at the venue and compiling data on ticket buyers post-event to enhance future promotional efforts.
MLB officials initially visited Bristol in 2021 to consider hosting a game at the venue, and they are continuously exploring innovative locations for future matchups. There is even potential for MLB games in notable places like the Grand Canyon, which would further redefine baseball experiences.
Key Features of the MLB Speedway Classic
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | August 2, 2025 |
| Teams | Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds |
| Location | Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, TN |
| Current Tickets Sold | Over 85,000 |
| Previous Attendance Record | 84,587 (Cleveland Stadium, 1954) |
| First | First MLB game in Tennessee and at a racetrack |
| Capacity | Maximum seating of 146,000 |
| Ceremonial First Pitches | Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench |
| Musical Performances | Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen |
| Event Start Time | 7:15 p.m. ET |
FAQ
What is the date of the MLB Speedway Classic?
The MLB Speedway Classic is scheduled for August 2, 2025.
Which teams are playing in the game?
The Atlanta Braves will face the Cincinnati Reds.
How many tickets have been sold so far?
Over 85,000 tickets have been sold, breaking the previous attendance record.
Who will throw the ceremonial first pitches?
Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench will throw out the ceremonial first pitches.
What entertainment will be featured at the event?
There will be musical performances from artists including Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Speedway Classic to Set MLB Attendance Record in Bristol, TN
Bristol Motor Speedway to Host Historic MLB Game
Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds to Compete at Bristol Motor Speedway
Braves and Reds to Compete in Historic MLB Speedway Classic
Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves to Play at Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol to Host Historic MLB Game in Tennessee
MLB Speedway Classic to Boost Bristol’s Economy
Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds to Play at Bristol Motor Speedway
Cultural Experiences and Community Engagement Flourish in Bristol
Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds to Play at Bristol Motor Speedway
Additional Resources
- ESPN
- Wikipedia: MLB Speedway Classic
- USA Today
- Google Search: MLB Speedway Classic
- AP News
- Google Scholar: MLB Speedway Classic
- Fox Sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: MLB Speedway Classic
- MLB.com
- Google News: MLB Speedway Classic
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.
