Bristol, Tennessee, August 8, 2025
News Summary
The MLB’s Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway significantly increased hotel occupancy rates in the Tri-Cities area, reaching over 83% and more than 90% during the weekend. Over 91,000 tickets were sold, setting a record for MLB regular-season attendance. Despite rain delays affecting the game schedule, fans experienced a unique baseball atmosphere at the speedway. The event showcases MLB’s strategy to expand its reach by hosting games in unconventional venues, benefiting local businesses and the hospitality industry.
Bristol, Tennessee – The MLB’s Speedway Classic held at the Bristol Motor Speedway brought a significant boost to the hospitality market in the Tri-Cities area, with hotel occupancy rates surging over the weekend, driven by the high attendance at the event.
According to CoStar data, Bristol-Kingsport-Johnson City, Tennessee, which has a total of 7,249 hotel rooms, saw occupancy levels reach an impressive 83% on Friday night and exceed 90% on Saturday. In contrast, during the same week last year, hotel occupancy was in the low 60% range, with an average daily room rate of approximately $103, indicating a notable increase in demand from the previous year.
The event, which featured the Atlanta Braves versus the Cincinnati Reds, was marred by rain delays but still attracted more than 91,000 tickets sold overall, culminating in around 50,000 fans attending the conclusion of the game on Sunday. This figure marked a record for MLB regular-season games, surpassing the previous attendance record of 84,587.
During the game, rain interrupted play in the first inning on Saturday, causing a suspension that turned the match into a two-day event. Prior to the rain delay, the Cincinnati Reds held a slim 1-0 lead. The game resumed on Sunday with the Braves ultimately defeating the Reds 4-2.
The MLB’s media hotel for the occasion was the 305-room Marriott MeadowView Conference Resort located in Kingsport, which is approximately 30 miles from the speedway. Since Sheraton ended its five-year partnership as the official hotel sponsor in 2020, MLB has not had an official sponsor for its accommodations.
Participants reflected on the excitement of playing in front of such an enthusiastic crowd despite the weather interruptions. Fans enjoyed the unique experience of a baseball field constructed in the infield of the racetrack, which presented a new atmosphere for the traditional MLB games.
However, the event was not without its challenges, as concession stands reported food shortages during the extended rain delays. The delays also necessitated an adjustment to the game schedule and fan experience, yet many attendees expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for the novelty of the Speedway Classic.
MLB’s Speedway Classic is part of a broader strategy aimed at expanding the league’s reach through games in distinctive venues worldwide, thereby attracting a diverse audience while providing an economic boost to the host communities.
Key Event Details
- Event: MLB’s Speedway Classic
- Teams: Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds
- Location: Bristol Motor Speedway
- Attendance: More than 91,000 tickets sold
- Hotel Occupancy: 83% on Friday, over 90% on Saturday
- Record Regular-Season Crowd: 91,000+ attendees
- Game Result: Braves 4, Reds 2
- Rain Delay: Game paused after the first inning on Saturday
- Concession Challenges: Food shortages reported during delays
Background Context
The Bristol-Kingsport-Johnson City area, home to 94 hotels, was able to capitalize on the significant influx of visitors generated by the Speedway Classic. With MLB’s growing trend of hosting games in unique venues globally, this event marks a transformative moment for both the league and the local hospitality industry.
FAQs
What is the Speedway Classic?
The Speedway Classic is a Major League Baseball event that features regular-season games held in non-traditional venues; this year’s event took place at Bristol Motor Speedway.
What were the attendance numbers for the event?
More than 91,000 tickets were sold for the Speedway Classic, making it the highest attended MLB regular-season game in history.
How did the rain affect the game schedule?
The game was interrupted by rain in the first inning on Saturday and was suspended, leading to the conclusion of the match on Sunday.
What impact did the event have on local hotels?
Hotel occupancy in the local area surged to 83% on Friday and exceeded 90% on Saturday, a significant improvement from last year’s occupancy rates.
Key Features Summary Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Type | MLB Regular-Season Game |
| Date | Weekend of the event |
| Teams Played | Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds |
| Total Tickets Sold | Over 91,000 |
| Final Score | Braves 4, Reds 2 |
| Weather Impact | Rain delays with a two-day event |
| Local Hotel Occupancy | 83% on Friday, over 90% on Saturday |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mixed Weather and Local Events in Morristown
Morristown Community Celebrates Achievements and Weather Changes
Historic MLB Speedway Classic Draws Record Crowd in Tennessee
Morristown Community Engages in Early August Events
Morristown Celebrates Summer and Fall with Vibrant Events
Morristown Community Celebrates Local Achievements
Bristol Motor Speedway Sets Attendance Record at MLB Classic
Morristown Celebrates Success at First Friday Concert
MLB Speedway Classic Sets New Attendance Record
Morristown Celebrates Community and Sustainability Achievements
Additional Resources
- Sports Business Journal
- Wikipedia: MLB
- WJHL
- Google Search: MLB Speedway Classic
- Johnson City Press
- Google Scholar: MLB Speedway Classic
- WFXR TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: MLB Speedway Classic
- Fox41 Yakima
- 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.
