Bristol, Tennessee, September 13, 2025
News Summary
The NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs commence with the Food City 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway, marking the start of the Round of 12. Fans can watch the race live on The CW and stream via DirecTV. This crucial event consists of 300 laps, totaling around 159.9 miles, featuring top contenders like Connor Zilisch and Justin Allgaier. With high stakes, the bottom four drivers will be eliminated after this round. Don’t miss out on the early practice and qualifying sessions scheduled for the day.
Bristol, Tennessee – The NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs officially begin with the Food City 300 on Friday, September 12, 2025. This race serves as the kick-off event for the crucial Round of 12 in the playoffs. Fans can tune in at 7:30 p.m. ET to watch the race broadcasted on The CW or stream it live via DirecTV, which offers a 5-day free trial for new users.
The length of the Food City 300 is notable, stretching across 300 laps, which totals approximately 159.9 miles. The day’s schedule also includes an early practice session at 2 p.m. followed by qualifying at 3:05 p.m., where drivers will aim to secure their starting positions for the main event.
Last year’s champion, Cole Custer, captured the regular season championship, and heading into this season’s playoffs, Connor Zilisch leads the pack with 2,064 points. Closely trailing him is Justin Allgaier in second place with 2,035 points. Other playoff contenders include Sam Mayer, Jesse Love, Brandon Jones, Sammy Smith, Nick Sanchez, Taylor Gray, Carson Kvapil, Sheldon Creed, Harrison Burton, and Austin Hill.
The playoff format will see the bottom four drivers in points eliminated after three races in this round, emphasizing the high stakes of the Food City 300. Additionally, Justin Allgaier managed to secure the pole position for the race after posting an impressive lap time of 15.843 seconds. In stark contrast, Sammy Smith faced early troubles due to an engine issue and withdrew from the race, positioning him last among the playoff drivers.
After the Food City 300, the next crucial race in the Xfinity Series will be held on September 27 at the Kansas Speedway. This is part of a series that will ultimately consist of seven races, featuring only the best performers who will compete for the championship title.
The Food City 300 is designed to test skill and strategy, providing drivers with an opportunity to secure a favorable position in the championship standings. Each driver will race not just for points but also to solidify their claim for a shot at the title in the upcoming races.
Upcoming Race Schedule
- Food City 300: September 12, 2025, at Bristol Motor Speedway
- Kansas Speedway: September 27, 2025
Xfinity Playoff Contenders & Points
| Driver | Points |
|---|---|
| Connor Zilisch | 2,064 |
| Justin Allgaier | 2,035 |
| Sam Mayer | Position TBD |
| Others (Jesse Love, Brandon Jones, etc.) | Position TBD |
FAQ Section
- What is the Food City 300?
- The Food City 300 is the opening race of the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs, taking place at Bristol Motor Speedway.
- When will the Food City 300 occur?
- The race is scheduled for September 12, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET.
- How can I watch the race?
- The race will be broadcasted on The CW and available for streaming live on DirecTV.
- What is the length of the race?
- The Food City 300 consists of 300 laps, totaling approximately 159.9 miles.
- Who are the major contenders in the playoffs?
- Key playoff contenders include Connor Zilisch, Justin Allgaier, Sam Mayer, and others within the top twelve drivers competing for the championship.
- What happens after the Food City 300?
- The next race in the Xfinity Series is scheduled for September 27, 2025, at Kansas Speedway.
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Additional Resources
- The Tennessean: NASCAR Xfinity Series Schedule
- Wikipedia: NASCAR Xfinity Series
- Sports Illustrated: Race Results Food City 300
- Google Search: Food City 300
- WCYB: Aric Almirola Wins Food City 300
- Google Scholar: NASCAR
- Newsweek: How to Watch Food City 300
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NASCAR
- Syracuse.com: Where to Watch NASCAR Xfinity Series
- Google News: Xfinity Series Bristol
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.
