The NASCAR season rolls into one of its most anticipated stops as Bristol Motor Speedway hosts the 2026 spring race weekend from April 10 to April 12. Often called the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile,” this 0.533-mile concrete track is characterized by steep banking and challenging racing conditions.
The NASCAR tripleheader includes races from all three national series across three days. Drivers enter the weekend with the standings beginning to take shape, while Bristol’s short-track layout creates a different challenge compared to larger tracks earlier in the season.
NASCAR Truck Series Kicks Off Bristol Weekend
The weekend begins Friday with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Practice starts at 3:30 p.m. ET, followed by qualifying at 4:35 p.m. ET.
The Tennessee Army National Guard 250 takes the green flag at 7:30 p.m. ET and will air on FS1. The race marks the first competitive session of the weekend, with drivers adjusting to the concrete surface and tight racing lines.
Highlights from the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series on Saturday
Saturday’s focus shifts to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, with practice set for 2:00 p.m. ET and qualifying scheduled at 3:05 p.m. ET.
The Suburban Propane 300 is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be aired on The CW. The race runs 300 laps, giving drivers extended time to manage tires and track position on the short track.
Cup Series teams will also be on track Saturday for practice at 4:30 p.m. ET and qualifying at 5:40 p.m. ET.
NASCAR Cup Series Headlines Sunday at Bristol
Sunday wraps up the weekend with the NASCAR Cup Series main event, as the Food City 500 takes the green flag at 3:00 p.m. ET on FS1.
Tyler Reddick enters the weekend as the points leader with four wins early in the season. Kyle Larson returns as the defending spring race winner at Bristol, while Christopher Bell continues to show consistent results at the track.
Drivers such as Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin, and Chase Elliott remain part of the early championship battle.
How to Watch the 2026 NASCAR Bristol Motor Speedway Spring Race Weekend
All times Eastern (ET). The Truck Series race takes place Friday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1, with streaming available through the FOX Sports App.
On Saturday, April 11, the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race, the Suburban Propane 300, starts at 7:30 p.m. ET and airs on The CW. The broadcast is also available through the CW App and supported live TV streaming services.
Sunday, April 12 begins with NASCAR Race Day coverage at 2:00 p.m. ET on FS1, followed by the NASCAR Cup Series Food City 500 at 3:00 p.m. ET on FS1. Streaming is available through the FOX Sports App and other supported platforms.
Radio coverage is available through PRN Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, which carry all three races live.
Bristol Conditions Set up Intense Racing
Bristol’s layout creates constant action. The track features high banking and a concrete surface that provides grip but also leads to close contact between cars.
Drivers must manage tire wear and maintain control in heavy traffic. The short lap distance means leaders catch slower cars quickly, which can affect race strategy.
The track often produces cautions and close finishes. The Bristol weekend remains a key stop on the NASCAR schedule, with all three series competing on one of the most demanding tracks of the season.
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This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
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