IndyCar championship finale moved to nearby superspeedway amid NFL stadium construction

Organizers of the IndyCar championship finale have announced that the season-ending race, originally set to take place on the streets of downtown Nashville, will now be moved to the nearby superspeedway in Lebanon, Tennessee. The decision was made due to construction surrounding the Tennessee Titans' new stadium, which made it unfeasible to hold the event downtown. The move to the superspeedway, approximately 40 miles away, will ensure the continuation of the championship finale amid the ongoing construction. The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix, which has been a major success in downtown Nashville, will now transition to the superspeedway in Lebanon, providing a different but equally appealing setting for the race.

Reasons for the move

The decision to relocate the championship finale was driven by the construction surrounding the Tennessee Titans' new stadium, which is set to begin on February 29 and is expected to be completed in time for the 2027 NFL season. The construction activities and the resulting logistical challenges posed by the development were key factors in the decision-making process. 

Scott Borchetta, the chairman and founder of Big Machine Label Group, emphasized the logistical complexities of hosting the event in downtown Nashville amidst the ongoing construction and uncertainty caused by the NFL schedule release in May. Additionally, other construction activities in the honky tonk district of Lower Broadway further added to the complexity of organizing the race downtown.

Ongoing relationship and support

Despite the necessitated change in venue, organizers have maintained their relationship with the Tennessee Titans and have expressed gratitude for the support received from the city of Nashville and its new Mayor Freddie O'Connell. The decision to move the championship finale to the superspeedway was made keeping in mind the long-term relationship with Nashville, as the IndyCar race has a contract in place through 2026. Borchetta also confirmed that certain race-related events, such as the pit stop competition and rooftop parties, will still be held in Nashville to maintain the connection with the city.

Shift to the superspeedway

The superspeedway in Lebanon, owned by Speedway Motorsports, will provide a different racing experience for the IndyCar championship finale. With a 1.33-mile, D-shaped oval track, the superspeedway will offer a unique challenge to the drivers and is expected to deliver an exciting and intense race for both participants and fans. The move to the superspeedway also marks a significant change for the IndyCar championship, as it will be the first oval to host the season finale since California Speedway in 2014.

Reaction and expectations

Mark Miles, Penske Entertainment president and CEO, expressed satisfaction with the response to the change, citing discussions with drivers and fans. He emphasized the potential for phenomenal racing on the superspeedway and the opportunity to create an amazing party weekend while taking advantage of all that Nashville has to offer. Despite the change in venue, renowned driver Scott Dixon assured fans of a tremendous show, expressing his fond memories of racing at the Nashville Superspeedway and his confidence in the thrilling experience it will offer as the season finale venue.

Looking ahead

While the change in venue presents a shift from the downtown street course to the superspeedway, organizers are committed to maintaining the aesthetic and appeal of Nashville throughout the race weekend. The transition to the superspeedway represents a strategic adaptation to the construction challenges in downtown Nashville and ensures the continuation of the IndyCar championship finale, offering an exciting and memorable experience for participants and fans alike