Dale Earnhardt Jr. went back to Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway this week for a test session ahead of the zMAX CARS Tour race on April 11. It was his first time driving laps at the track since the middle of 1999.
The return brought back clear memories from his early career, when the Fairgrounds was one of the busiest short tracks in the region. The session was part of race preparation, but it also showed how much of the track’s character remains the same.
Earnhardt Jr., now a NASCAR Hall of Famer and co-owner of the CARS Tour, shared his thoughts on the experience, the track’s condition, and what the upcoming race weekend will entail for teams and fans.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Reflects on Return to Historic Track
The visit carried a strong personal meaning for Earnhardt Jr. He had not raced at the Fairgrounds since his Late Model Stock days in the 1990s, when the track drew large weekly fields.
“It was emotional to make those laps yesterday. Like visiting an old friend and realizing they still were the same person you always admired.”
He recalled how active the track was at the time.
“I raced there a dozen times in the mid 1990s when it was a hotbed for Late Model Stocks. You’d have 30 cars for a weekly 100-lap feature. It was amazing.”
He also noted how the regional racing scene has changed over time.
“Somehow, the Late Model Stock footprint receded to western Tennessee over the years.”
Track Conditions and Testing Focus
The session gave teams a chance to prepare for race conditions, including tire performance and track surface behavior. Earnhardt Jr. described the current state of the track in simple terms.
“Anyhow, the track is fast. There are some weeper issues and a massive bump off turn 2, but it wasn’t anything of real concern.”
The test also included work on mufflers, which are required due to local regulations tied to the track’s location.
“We also got a chance to test mufflers. The noise ordinance makes them a requirement.”
Earnhardt Jr. also pointed to ongoing discussions about long-term improvements to address sound concerns.
“Marcus Smith wants to build a sophisticated sound barrier around the track once the local government can get on board.”
April 11 Race Brings CARS Tour to Nashville
The April 11 event will mark the first time the CARS Tour races at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. The race will feature both Pro Late Model and Late Model Stock divisions. Earnhardt Jr. will compete in the event as both a driver and co-owner of the series.
The weekend will also include fan engagement activities in the city.
“We plan to be in town at Tootsies on Thursday evening to promote the tour and hopefully allow some folks to meet our drivers.”
Earnhardt Jr. described the race weekend in clear terms.
“It’s gonna be a big weekend. Hope to see ya there.”
He also confirmed the broadcast details for viewers who cannot attend in person.
“If ya can’t, you can catch it live on FloRacing.”
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