Speedway Motorsports, the company that operates eleven high‑profile motorsports venues across the United States, has officially become a stakeholder in the zMAX CARS Tour. The move was announced by the series’ current owners, who also include Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick, Jeff Burton and Justin Marks, who acquired the tour in 2023.
A Strategic Partnership for the Future of Racing
Marcus Smith, who has served as chief executive of Speedway Motorsports since 2015, said the investment aligns with the company’s long‑standing focus on developing drivers who can transition smoothly from short‑track competition to the national stage. Smith’s family founded Bruton Smith’s racing empire, and his leadership has guided the expansion of the venue portfolio that now includes some of the most recognizable tracks in American motorsport.
The zMAX CARS Tour, founded in 2014 by Jack McNelly, has earned a reputation as a proving ground for aspiring NASCAR competitors. Its two flagship divisions — Late Model Stock Cars and Pro Late Models — offer a structured pathway that bridges regional short‑track events with the premier series. By joining the ownership group, Speedway Motorsports adds not only financial resources but also a wealth of operational experience that can help standardize and expand the series’ reach.
Legacy of Track Innovation
Speedway Motorsports’ history is intertwined with the evolution of modern American racing. Starting with the vision of Bruton Smith, the company has built and acquired tracks that host major events ranging from NASCAR’s premier series to regional championships. This heritage provides the CARS Tour with a stable platform and a network of venues that can host high‑profile races, attracting sponsors and fans alike.
The infusion of Speedway Motorsports’ expertise is expected to accelerate the development of driver pipelines that feed directly into NASCAR’s top levels. With a clear emphasis on mentorship, data‑driven performance analysis, and strategic race scheduling, the series aims to shorten the traditional journey from local short tracks to national competition.
Implications for Aspiring Drivers
For young racers, the expanded ownership structure promises more consistent funding, better technical support, and increased visibility. The partnership also opens doors for collaborations with teams and sponsors that have long‑standing relationships with Speedway Motorsports’ venues. As the series continues to refine its format, it may serve as a template for other grassroots series seeking to align with major racing organizations.