Retired NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace has recently spoken out about the future of racing at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, urging the sport to move its events to the larger Nashville Superspeedway.
Wallace's Vision for a Bigger Stage
In a video posted to Facebook on June 3, Wallace said, “Maybe we just need to forget about the Fairgrounds.” He argued that the 38,000‑seat capacity of the Superspeedway far outstrips the 15,000‑person limit of the Fairgrounds, making the newer venue a more practical home for major events.
Wallace’s call comes after a Davidson County judge blocked the certification of a petition that sought to remove auto racing from the Fairgrounds and replace it with housing. The decision preserves the track’s protected status but does not resolve the debate over its future.
Capacity and the Future of Racing
The Superspeedway, located in Gladeville, can accommodate up to 38,000 spectators and has the infrastructure to expand further, according to track officials. By contrast, the Fairgrounds Speedway has held only about 15,000 fans since it stopped hosting NASCAR races in 2001, despite having been a staple of the circuit from 1958 onward.
Other high‑profile drivers have weighed in on the issue. Denny Hamlin expressed a desire to see next year’s All‑Star race return to the Fairgrounds, while Dale Earnhardt Jr. made a rare appearance at the track for the zMAX Series CARS Tour. Chase Elliott also voiced support for bringing the Cup series back to the historic venue in 2024.
Wallace hinted at a possible short‑track project in nearby Lebanon, asking, “Should we just build a short track out there in Lebanon right next to the Superspeedway?” He added, “Just seems like the thing to do,” suggesting that expanding racing options could benefit the region’s motorsport ecosystem.