NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 24, 2026) — The engines are roaring back to life at one of America’s most iconic short tracks. Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway officially kicks off its historic 122nd year of auto racing on Saturday, March 28, 2026, promising a high-octane opening night that blends deep-rooted tradition with modern-day speed.
Opening Night features a marquee 122-lap Pro Late Model event, a distance specially chosen to honor the track’s incredible longevity in Music City. Drivers will be battling for more than just points; they’ll be competing for the coveted Nashville Guitar Trophy, one of the most unique and sought-after prizes in all of motorsports.
The 2026 season opener serves as the gateway to a year packed with seven national touring series, marquee regional events, and the intense local competition that has defined the Fairgrounds for over a century. Fans can expect to see 2025 Pro Late Model Champion Hunter Wright return to the high banks to defend his title against a hungry field of challengers, including local standout Jackson Boone racing for Fetcho Motorsports.
Gates open at 3:00 PM with racing set to take the green at 5:00 PM. Advance tickets and event information are available at www.
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A Historic Night: 122 Years of Racing
A Historic Night: 122 Years of RacingFew tracks in the country can match the legacy of Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, and Saturday night marks the 122nd year of continuous racing. That history adds extra significance to opening night, as a new chapter begins at one of America’s most iconic short tracks.
Champion vs. Challengers in Pro Late Models
Champion vs. Challengers in Pro Late ModelsAll eyes will be on defending Pro Late Model Track Champion Hunter Wright, who returns to begin his title defense. But he won’t have it easy—an ultra-competitive field featuring both returning standouts and new challengers is ready to shake up the pecking order right out of the gate.
A Deep, Diverse Field Rolls In
A Deep, Diverse Field Rolls InThe Pro Late Model entry list showcases regional and traveling talent, with drivers coming from Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Alabama, North Carolina, and even as far as Minnesota. That mix of experience and fresh faces creates plenty of unknowns heading into opening night.
A Full Night of Racing Across Two Tracks
A Full Night of Racing Across Two Tracks
Opening night isn’t just about the 5/8-mile. Fans will also get action on the quarter-mile, featuring Legends, Bandoleros, and more, before the spotlight shifts to the big track. With multiple divisions in action, it’s a full-scale kickoff to the 2026 season for teams and fans alike.