NASCAR has undergone a significant transformation from its origins on dirt tracks to becoming a global stock car racing phenomenon. However, the sport has drifted away from those beginnings, with the last dirt race in the Cup Series occurring at Bristol Motor Speedway in 2023. Following mixed reactions to that event, the race was removed from the schedule, but drivers like Chase Briscoe are now advocating to bring dirt racing back to the forefront of NASCAR’s premier series.
Briscoe’s View on NASCAR’s Schedule and Dirt Racing
On a recent episode of the Rubbin Is Racing podcast, Chase Briscoe shared his vision for potential changes in NASCAR’s calendar. He suggested removing races at Sonoma and New Hampshire and replacing them with events at the pre-repaved Iowa Speedway. When the discussion shifted to dirt racing, Briscoe was quick to express support for reintroducing a dirt track to the lineup.
Definitely! I definitely think we need a dirt track.
—Chase Briscoe, NASCAR driver
He explained that NASCAR already features a variety of racing disciplines including superspeedways, short tracks, intermediate tracks, and road courses, yet it lacks a dirt race. Since drivers often come from backgrounds in road course, short track, or dirt racing, he sees no reason why dirt should be excluded.
We run on every discipline. We have superspeedway, short track, intermediate, road course, and growing up, you’re either a road course guy, a short track racer, or a dirt racer. So, there’s no reason for me why we don’t have at least one dirt race.
—Chase Briscoe, NASCAR driver
The Connection Between Sprint Car Racing and NASCAR
Briscoe emphasized the close relationship between sprint car racing and NASCAR, noting that fans often follow both types of racing. He also pointed out that many NASCAR drivers still compete in sprint car events, reinforcing the natural synergy between the two racing styles.
The people that are going to sprint car races are typically watching NASCAR on Sunday, and now we have a lot of NASCAR guys going back and running sprint cars. So, I definitely would love to have a dirt race,
—Chase Briscoe, NASCAR driver
While Briscoe recognizes that adding multiple dirt races to the schedule would be a major change, he believes that even one annual dirt event would add valuable variety to the season.
Thoughts on Bristol Dirt and Potential Venues
Reflecting on the Bristol Dirt race, Briscoe offered a balanced perspective. He acknowledged that the first Bristol dirt event was not well-received, but felt the concept was strong overall. He also indicated that while an actual dirt track would be preferable, he would not oppose continuing with Bristol if it remained the only option for a dirt race.
I thought Bristol Dirt was great. Truthfully, from the last two years, the first year definitely was not, but I do think that if we did it, it would be nice to go to an actual dirt track. But I wouldn’t be against Bristol dirt either if that was our only option.
—Chase Briscoe, NASCAR driver
Briscoe admitted that hosting a NASCAR dirt race faces challenges, particularly because the United States has limited dirt track facilities that meet the standards required for Cup Series competition. He concluded by recommending Eldora Speedway as a prime candidate for bringing NASCAR back to dirt racing.
Significance of Briscoe’s Advocacy for Dirt Racing in NASCAR
Briscoe’s comments echo a broader call among drivers who wish to reconnect NASCAR with its historical roots, while preserving the diversity that defines the sport’s appeal. Reinstating dirt racing could offer renewed excitement and variety, potentially attracting new and longtime fans alike. As NASCAR evaluates future schedules, Briscoe’s advocacy highlights an ongoing conversation about how to blend tradition with innovation in stock car racing.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where will Chase Briscoe be in 2025?
A. On Friday, Joe Gibbs Racing revealed that Bass Pro Shops will support Briscoe and the No. 19 team throughout the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series. Briscoe will take over for Martin Truex Jr.
Q. Where will Chase Briscoe go in 2025?
A. In 2025, Chase Briscoe will become a part of Joe Gibbs Racing, a team known for its past championships. He’ll drive the No. 19 Toyota Camry XSE, taking over from Martin Truex, Jr., who is retiring.