Austin Dillon, a fan favorite at Bristol Motor Speedway, secured his NASCAR Playoff berth with a key victory on Saturday night in Virginia. This win guarantees Dillon a place among the 16 drivers competing for the championship in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/motorsports/nascar/cup-series/”>NASCAR Cup Series, starting at the prominent Bass Pro Shops Night Race on September 13.
This triumph marks a meaningful comeback for Dillon, who missed the Playoffs last year amid controversy over his victory at the same event. Supporters of the Richard Childress Racing No. 3 Chevrolet and the event’s title sponsor, Bass Pro Shops, will once again have a popular contender to cheer for in the championship chase.
Man, that feels good, I’ve got to thank the good Lord above,
Dillon expressed after his win.
I really wanted that one. Last year, hurt really bad. Just going through the whole process of it. But this one feels so sweet.
—Austin Dillon, NASCAR driver
Preparation for the Round of 16: Challenging Tracks Ahead
Following the regular season finale in Florida next weekend, Dillon’s focus will shift to the Round of 16 Playoffs. This stage includes stops at Darlington, South Carolina, and St. Louis, Illinois, before returning to Bristol Motor Speedway for a daunting 500-lap race. The Bass Pro Shops Night Race will serve as the opening elimination round, where four drivers will be cut from the championship contention after the race concludes. The event is scheduled to air at 7:30 p.m. on the USA Network and will also be available on PRN Radio.
Dillon’s Momentum Builds as He Eyes Advancement Beyond the Opening Round
Having progressed to the second round three times in five Cup Playoff appearances, Dillon believes he is reaching peak performance at a crucial moment of the season. His competitive spirit remains strong as he aims to carve deeper into the championship battle.
We’re kind of like a fighter, we don’t go away,
Dillon stated.
I think a lot of people think that guy is going to go away at some point. We’re able to claw, chip, find ways. I like that underdog mentality a little bit.
—Austin Dillon, NASCAR driver
Seeking First NASCAR Cup Win at Bristol
Dillon is still searching for his first NASCAR Cup Series victory at Bristol Motor Speedway. His previous successes at the track include winning the 2016 Food City 300 in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and a Late Model race during Bristol’s 2021 dirt configuration. In his most recent Cup appearance at Bristol in April, he finished in 10th place during the Food City 500.
During a press event for the Speedway Children’s Charities Golf Tournament at Olde Farm Golf Club in Bristol, Virginia, Dillon shared his insights on what it takes to perform well at the track.
I can’t wait to get to Bristol,
Dillon said earlier this month.
It’s always one of the best races of the year. I think the RCR short track program is pretty good right now… The biggest thing is being able to run both the high and low line. It’s being able to change lanes and make good moves from entry to corner.
—Austin Dillon, NASCAR driver
Strong Lineup of Playoff Contenders as Season Reaches Critical Stage
Dillon, the 14th different winner this season, joins a formidable group of drivers who have locked their spots in the Playoffs. Alongside Dillon, other automatic qualifiers include regular-season champion William Byron, Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, Ryan Blaney, Christopher Bell, Chase Briscoe, Bubba Wallace, Joey Logano, Ross Chastain, Austin Cindric, Josh Berry, and Shane Van Gisbergen.
Currently, two Playoff positions remain open, with over ten skilled competitors vying to secure those spots. Tyler Reddick and Alex Bowman are presently ranked 15th and 16th based on points and need to maintain or improve their standings.
Drivers with strong winning histories, such as Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher, Kyle Busch, Daniel Suarez, Michael McDowell, and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., remain on the outside but can earn a Playoff spot with victories in remaining races. Other drivers to monitor include Ty Gibbs, Ryan Preece, AJ Allmendinger, Erik Jones, and rookie Carson Hocevar.
Exciting Race Weekend Planned at Bristol Motor Speedway
The Bass Pro Shops Night Race weekend will feature a packed slate of motorsport action across three nights. On Friday night, September 11, the NASCAR Xfinity Series will kick off the Round of 12 with the Food City 300 at 7:30 p.m., broadcast on The CW and available on PRN Radio. Contenders like Justin Allgaier, Austin Hill, Sheldon Creed, Brandon Jones, Sammy Smith, Jesse Love, and points leader Connor Zilisch will compete for the win.
Thursday’s schedule at Bristol promises thrilling competition with a doubleheader beginning the weekend. The highlight is the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series’ Round of 10 Playoff race, the UNOH 200 presented by Ohio Logistics, at 8 p.m. on FS1 and PRN Radio. Drivers such as Corey Heim, Ty Majeski, Rajah Caruth, two-time Bristol Truck winner Chandler Smith, and defending champion Layne Riggs are expected to battle for victory.
The weekend’s opening event on Thursday starts with the Bush’s Beans 200 ARCA Menards Series race at 5:30 p.m. on FS1. This race will showcase a blend of veterans and emerging talent, including Lawless Alan, Lavar Scott, Brendan “Butterbean” Queen, Brent Crews, Garrett Mitchell (known as Cleetus McFarland), Logan Misuraca, and Isabella Robusto.
Ticket Availability and Event Details
Fans interested in attending the Bass Pro Shops Night Race weekend can purchase tickets through the Bristol Motor Speedway website or by contacting the BMS ticket sales center at (866) 415-4158. A limited number of tickets remain available at local Food City stores until Friday, September 5.
Looking Ahead: High Stakes and Championship Dreams
Austin Dillon’s achievement in earning his NASCAR Playoff berth has generated excitement and hope among his supporters and the broader NASCAR community. As the Playoffs begin, every race will heighten the intensity with championship contenders pushing hard for the ultimate goal. Dillon’s resilience and determination position him as a strong competitor as the field moves into the challenging Round of 16 at Bristol Motor Speedway.