Bristol, Tennessee, July 29, 2025
News Summary
The Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway is on track to break MLB’s single-game attendance record, with over 85,000 tickets sold for the Reds vs. Braves matchup. This historic event, marking the first MLB game in Tennessee, is set for August 2 and will feature a ceremonial first pitch from Hall of Famers, alongside musical performances by popular artists, promising a vibrant atmosphere and an unprecedented turnout.
Bristol, Tennessee
The upcoming Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway is set to break Major League Baseball’s single-game, regular-season attendance record, with over 85,000 tickets sold for the highly anticipated game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Atlanta Braves. Scheduled for Saturday, August 2, the event is already generating excitement among fans and sports enthusiasts alike.
This matchup is poised to shatter the previous attendance record of 84,587 fans, which was established on September 12, 1954, at Cleveland Stadium during a doubleheader against the New York Yankees. Furthermore, this game marks the first MLB game ever played in the state of Tennessee, adding significant historical value to the event. The first pitch is slated for 7:15 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on FOX Sports.
In addition to the exhilarating baseball action, the Speedway Classic will feature pregame festivities including a tribute by the U.S. Navy. Hall of Famers Chipper Jones, representing the Braves, and Johnny Bench, representing the Reds, will take the mound for a ceremonial first pitch.
Musical performances will further enhance the atmosphere, with artists such as Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen set to entertain fans throughout the day. Attendance at this unique event will bring together fans from all 50 states, along with representation from Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and nine countries across four continents, showcasing the widespread appeal of baseball.
For fans still looking to secure their spot at the historic game, tickets remain available via MLB.com/SpeedwayClassic.
Event Details:
- Teams: Cincinnati Reds vs. Atlanta Braves
- Date: Saturday, August 2
- Location: Bristol Motor Speedway, Tennessee
- First Pitch: 7:15 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: FOX Sports
- Ticket Sales: Over 85,000 tickets sold
- Previous Record: 84,587 fans at Cleveland Stadium
- Pregame Features: U.S. Navy pageantry, Hall of Fame first pitch
- Musical Guests: Tim McGraw, Pitbull, Jake Owen
Context
The Speedway Classic represents a unique convergence of two American pastimes, baseball and auto racing, and demonstrates an innovative approach by MLB to engage fans in a non-traditional venue. This initiative not only caters to the longstanding tradition of baseball but also appeals to the diverse fan base that NASCAR and the Bristol Motor Speedway attract. The significance of hosting the first MLB game in Tennessee contributes to the state’s sports culture, while the record-setting attendance promises a thrilling atmosphere for all attendees.
FAQ Section
What is the Speedway Classic?
The Speedway Classic is a Major League Baseball game featuring the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves, set to take place at Bristol Motor Speedway.
When is the game scheduled?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 2, with the first pitch at 7:15 p.m. ET.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at MLB.com/SpeedwayClassic.
What is the expected attendance?
Over 85,000 tickets have already been sold, breaking the previous MLB attendance record.
Will there be any special performances during the event?
Yes, there will be musical performances by Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen, along with pregame festivities featuring U.S. Navy pageantry.
Key Features of the Speedway Classic
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Cincinnati Reds vs. Atlanta Braves |
| Date | August 2 |
| Attendance Record | Over 85,000 tickets sold |
| First Pitch Time | 7:15 p.m. ET |
| Location | Bristol Motor Speedway, TN |
| Broadcast | FOX Sports |
| Musical Acts | Tim McGraw, Pitbull, Jake Owen |
| Ceremonial First Pitch | Chipper Jones, Johnny Bench |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
Atlanta Braves to Host Historic MLB Game in Tennessee
Additional Resources
- ESPN: MLB Speedway Classic Breaks Attendance Record
- Wikipedia: Speedway Classic
- MLB.com: Speedway Classic Attendance Record
- Google Search: Speedway Classic MLB
- Knox News: Braves vs Reds at Speedway Classic
- Google Scholar: Speedway Classic MLB
- MLive: Speedway Classic Ticket Sales
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Speedway Classic MLB
- WJHL: Speedway Classic Set to Break Attendance Record
- Google News: Speedway Classic MLB
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.
