Bristol/SMI Interested In Nashville Fairgrounds

Bruton and Marcus Smith

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — According to the Tennessean, Speedway Motorsports has joined the fray to be the potential promoter of the historic Fairgrounds Speedway.

The Tennessean reported that Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway officials confirmed the track, which is owned by SMI, has applied for a contract with the city of Nashville. Bristol is one of seven race tracks owned and operated by Speedway Motorsports.

Current promoter Tony Formosa, who has overseen racing at the city-owned short track for the past seven years, has also applied for a contract to operate the facility.

“We can confirm that Bristol Motor Speedway has submitted a proposal to manage the historic Fairgrounds Speedway and would be honored to serve as its promoter," Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, told the Tennessean. “Bruton Smith, executive chairman, and Marcus Smith, chief executive officer, have a vision that the venue can again become a premier destination, and they have a solid reputation of creating world-class facilities."

As well, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry has also picked the property as the possible site of a professional soccer stadium with the hopes of the track and the soccer venue co-existing.

Interestingly, SMI executives Bruton and Marcus Smith have been involved in talks to bring professional soccer to Charlotte. NSSN