HISTORY OF THE RICHM.OND RACEWAY

Richmond Raceway has long been one of the most respected and popular tracks in NASCAR. Located in Virginia’s capital city, the track first opened in 1946 as a half-mile dirt oval known as the Atlantic Rural Exposition Fairgrounds. What started as a local fairground circuit quickly became a hotspot for motorsports, attracting top-level drivers and growing crowds. By 1953, NASCAR’s premier division had arrived, beginning a legacy that continues to this day.

Originally a flat dirt surface, the track was paved in 1968, creating faster racing and new challenges for drivers. Over the years, it earned the nickname “America’s Premier Short Track” due to its intense, close-quarters racing and passionate fan base. In 1988, the facility was reconfigured into a 0.75-mile D-shaped oval with 14 degrees of banking in the turns. This redesign improved visibility for fans and created a layout that blends the best elements of short-track excitement and intermediate-track speed.

Richmond Raceway has seen some of the most iconic moments in NASCAR history. From Dale Earnhardt’s hard-fought wins to Jeff Gordon’s dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the track has been the stage for legends. It’s also been the site of dramatic Playoff battles, surprise underdog victories, and countless bump-and-run finishes under the lights.

In addition to the Cup Series, Richmond has regularly hosted Xfinity Series and Craftsman Truck Series events, making it a full weekend of racing for fans. The addition of night racing in 1991 brought a new level of energy to the venue, turning Richmond into one of the sport’s top Saturday night destinations.

Over the past few decades, Richmond Raceway has continued to upgrade its facilities, adding fan-friendly improvements such as the modern infield fan zone, upgraded seating, and interactive displays. Despite its growth, the track has never lost its old-school charm or commitment to great racing.