History of Atlanta Motor Speedway in Timeline
Atlanta Motor Speedway, a 1.540-mile quad-oval intermediate speedway located in Hampton, Georgia, has been a hub for motorsports since 1960. Owned by Speedway Motorsports, LLC (SMI) since 1990, the track is easily accessible via major highways including U.S. Route 41, U.S. Route 19, and Georgia State Route 20. Throughout its history, Atlanta Motor Speedway has hosted races from major sanctioning bodies such as NASCAR and IndyCar, establishing its place as a significant venue in American motorsports.
April 8, 1958: Plans Announced for Atlanta International Raceway
The Atlanta Constitution reported on April 8, 1958, that the First Georgia Securities Corporation, under the leadership of president Richard W. King, had unveiled plans to construct a $1 million racing complex known as Atlanta International Raceway.
February 1959: Disputes and Financial Concerns Delay Atlanta International Raceway
Drivers Curtis Turner and Joe Weatherly voiced concerns and threatened legal action against Atlanta International Raceway in February 1959 due to payment disputes and financial instability.
November 22, 1959: NASCAR Race Postponed
A NASCAR-sanctioned race at Atlanta International Raceway, initially planned for November 22, 1959, was postponed due to construction delays and rescheduled for March 27, 1960.
1959: Groundbreaking for Atlanta International Raceway
The groundbreaking ceremony for Atlanta International Raceway occurred on September 17, 1959.
January 1960: Race Postponed Indefinitely
The rescheduled NASCAR race at Atlanta International Raceway on March 27, 1960, was ultimately postponed indefinitely due to ongoing construction delays.
June 1960: First NASCAR Cup Series Race
The first NASCAR Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, initially scheduled for late 1959, was held in June 1960 due to construction delays caused by bad weather.
1960: Atlanta International Raceway Opens
After months of delays, the Atlanta International Raceway (later renamed Atlanta Motor Speedway) hosted its first races in 1960.
1960: Atlanta International Raceway Early Renovations
Following its opening in 1960, Atlanta International Raceway underwent a series of renovations. A guardrail was installed by late October in time for the Atlanta 500.
1960: Atlanta International Raceway Opening and Inaugural Race
In 1960, Atlanta International Raceway opened, with the first tests conducted by Jack Smith on July 10th. The track officially opened to teams on July 25th in preparation for the Dixie 300. However, the track faced initial challenges, including a flaw on the track and a lack of guardrails. Despite rain and driver complaints about track conditions, the inaugural race took place, with Edwin "Fireball" Roberts securing victory amidst scoring dispute allegations.
1960: First Atlanta 500 Race
The Atlanta 500, now known as the Quaker State 400, had its first race in 1960 and was traditionally held in the spring.
1960: Atlanta International Raceway Opens
The Atlanta International Raceway held its first races in 1960.
January 1961: USAC Race Canceled
In January 1961, after tire tests showing high speeds and unsafe conditions, USAC canceled a scheduled race at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Track president Nelson Weaver criticized USAC officials for the decision.
1962: First Movie Production: Thundering Wheels
Atlanta Motor Speedway was first used for movie production in the 1962 film Thundering Wheels, featuring driver Jack Smith.
1963: Atlanta International Raceway Financial Success
By mid-1963, after further renovations, Atlanta International Raceway announced a profit of $179,046, demonstrating its growing financial success.
1965: Atlanta International Raceway Dragstrip Proposal
In 1965, track owner Bruce Weaver revealed plans for a $500,000 dragstrip at Atlanta International Raceway.
1966: Race Distance Increased to 500 Miles
In 1966, the race distance of the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway was increased to 500 miles (800 km).
1967: Atlanta International Raceway Sale Rumors
Rumors circulated in 1967 about the potential sale of Atlanta International Raceway, with potential buyers including Curtis Turner and William Bartholomay.
February 16, 1968: Bruce Weaver's Death and Jack Black's Appointment
On February 16, 1968, Bruce Weaver, owner of Atlanta International Raceway, passed away. The day before his death, he appointed Jack Black as the new president of AIR.
December 1968: Atlanta International Raceway and Michigan International Speedway Merger
In December 1968, Atlanta International Raceway merged with Michigan International Speedway, owned by Lawrence LoPatin. The merger included a $1 million investment for renovations, including a repaving, new dragstrip, expanded seating, and amenity upgrades.
March 1969: Atlanta International Raceway and Michigan International Speedway Merger SEC Approval
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) granted approval for the merger between Atlanta International Raceway and Michigan International Speedway in March 1969.
1969: American Raceways Financial Troubles and STP Corporation Merger
By late 1969, after expanding and rebranding as American Raceways, the company experienced financial difficulties following the departure of Les Richter. In response, American Raceways merged with the STP Corporation.
1970: American Raceways Leadership Conflicts and Ownership Change
In 1970, conflicts arose between Atlanta International Raceway directors and American Raceways' owner, Lawrence LoPatin, over his attempt to gain controlling interest in the facility. Despite efforts to sever ties, American Raceways ultimately acquired complete control of AIR. LoPatin was subsequently removed from his position, and Richard Howard, president of Charlotte Motor Speedway, stepped in to help the track host the 1970 Dixie 500.
January 19, 1971: Atlanta International Raceway Bankruptcy Filing
Atlanta International Raceway filed for Chapter 10 bankruptcy on January 19, 1971, facing significant financial difficulties and raising concerns about the stability of stock car racing. Despite owing around $1,400,000, the track secured a loan to host the 1971 Atlanta 500, deeming its success crucial for the track's survival.
1971: Atlanta International Raceway Post-Bankruptcy and Ownership Interest
Following its bankruptcy filing, Atlanta International Raceway saw a glimmer of hope with the 1971 Atlanta 500, attracting a sizable crowd. While facing financial challenges, the track garnered interest from potential buyers. Despite a storm causing damage during the 1972 Atlanta 500, the event generated profit. A reorganization plan, met with mixed reactions, proposed Jim Baker and Walter Nix as majority owners.
1971: Atlanta International Raceway Faces Financial Troubles
The Atlanta International Raceway faced significant financial challenges, leading to Chapter 10 bankruptcy in 1971.
1972: Atlanta International Raceway Storm Damage and Reorganization Plan Controversy
During the 1972 Atlanta 500, a storm hit the track, causing significant damage to amenities and grandstands. Despite the setback, the race still managed to turn a profit. Later that year, a proposed reorganization plan, while aiming to alleviate the track's financial strain, sparked controversy among minority stockholders who felt it undervalued their shares.
April 1974: Atlanta International Raceway Ownership Dispute and Legal Challenges
In April 1974, James Price, a leading stockholder, challenged the court-approved reorganization plan that would give control of Atlanta International Raceway to Jim Baker, Walter Nix, and L.G. DeWitt. Price argued that the plan significantly undervalued the stock.
January 1975: Atlanta International Raceway Ownership Dispute Court Ruling
In January 1975, the court denied James Price's appeal against the reorganization plan, paving the way for Baker, Nix, and DeWitt to assume control of Atlanta International Raceway. Price's subsequent appeal to the Supreme Court was also rejected.
January 1976: Atlanta International Raceway Bankruptcy Exit and New Ownership
After five years of bankruptcy proceedings, Atlanta International Raceway was officially turned over to a five-man board of directors on March 10, 1976. The move marked the end of a turbulent period for the speedway, with Jim Baker, Walter Nix, and L.G. DeWitt assuming majority ownership.
1978: Repave and Hogan's Resignation
In 1978, Atlanta Motor Speedway underwent a repave that was completed by June. By the end of the year, Hogan resigned from his position as general manager.
1979: First Fatality at Atlanta Motor Speedway
During the 1979 Atlanta 500, Dennis Wade, an 18-year-old mechanic, was tragically killed after being hit by the car of Dave Watson on pit road. This marked the first fatality at the facility.
1980: Used in Smokey and the Bandit II
In 1980, Atlanta Motor Speedway was featured in the film Smokey and the Bandit II.
1982: Used in Six Pack
The 1982 film Six Pack, directed by Daniel Petrie, featured scenes shot at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
1983: Used in Stroker Ace
Atlanta Motor Speedway was used in the 1983 Hal Needham-directed film Stroker Ace.
1984: Death of Terry Schoonover
In 1984, driver Terry Schoonover died in a crash during the Atlanta Journal 500. This incident led to the announcement of new wall constructions by then-general manager Mike Helton.
January 1986: Announcement of $3 Million Renovations
In January 1986, Mike Helton announced $3 million in renovations ahead of the 1986 The Winston event. These improvements were part of efforts to enhance the Atlanta Motor Speedway's facilities.
1986: One-off NASCAR All-Star Race
In 1986, Atlanta Motor Speedway hosted a one-off iteration of The Winston (NASCAR All-Star Race). Due to lackluster attendance, the race became stationary at Charlotte Motor Speedway thereafter.
September 1989: Roger Penske's Offer Rejected
In September 1989, motorsports businessman Roger Penske's offer to purchase Atlanta Motor Speedway was rejected by DeWitt and Nix. This was reported on the 22nd of the month.
February 22, 1990: Negotiations for AIR Sale Begin
On February 22, 1990, local media reported that negotiations began between Nix and Bruton Smith for the sale of Atlanta Motor Speedway. Although the sale was expected to close soon, both parties denied its finalization the next day.
1990: Bruton Smith Purchases Atlanta International Raceway
Bruton Smith, a prominent figure in motorsports, acquired Atlanta International Raceway in 1990.
1990: Bruton Smith Purchases Atlanta International Raceway
Motorsports mogul Bruton Smith purchased the Atlanta International Raceway in 1990, renaming it to Atlanta Motor Speedway and leading the facility's expansion and renovation under longtime general manager Ed Clark.
November 1991: Completion of First Renovations under Bruton Smith
By November 1991, the first renovations under Bruton Smith's ownership were completed, including a new 21,000-seat grandstand and traffic flow improvements.
September 1992: First Races on New Road Course
In September 1992, the newly constructed 2.5-mile road course at Atlanta Motor Speedway held its first races. This course included both the oval and specialized infield portions.
1992: Road Course Added to Atlanta Motor Speedway
In 1992, a 2.5-mile road course, combining the main oval with a specialized infield portion to create a "roval," was added to Atlanta Motor Speedway.
1993: Three-Year Expansion Plan Announced
In 1993, Ed Clark announced a three-year plan to expand Atlanta Motor Speedway's capacity to 180,000. This plan included the construction of Tara Place, a new condominium complex.
March 1994: Partial Opening of Tara Place
By March 1994, Tara Place, a new 112-unit condominium complex, partially opened despite initial poor sales. The complex was part of a three-year expansion plan announced in 1993.
1994: Tara Place Condominium Complex Completed
Tara Place, a nine-story condominium complex at Atlanta Motor Speedway, was completed in 1994, featuring 46 units and a ballroom.
1994: Completion of Tara Place
By November 1994, Tara Place was fully completed with 32 of the 46 condos sold. Further renovations were announced to be completed by 2000.
August 1995: New Grandstand Construction
In August 1995, a new grandstand was constructed at Atlanta Motor Speedway, adding 21,000 permanent seats.
1997: Atlanta Motor Speedway Reconfiguration
The first major reconfiguration of Atlanta Motor Speedway took place in 1997, altering the track's layout.
1997: Last Repave Before 2021
The last repave of Atlanta Motor Speedway before the 2021 announcement occurred in 1997, marking a significant gap before the recent changes.
1997: IRL Announces 500 km Race
In 1997, the Indy Racing League announced plans to hold a 500 km race at Atlanta Motor Speedway starting in 1998.
1997: Quarter-Mile Oval Added to Atlanta Motor Speedway
Developers added a 1⁄4 mile oval to Atlanta Motor Speedway's frontstretch in 1997 to accommodate legends car racing.
1997: Atlanta Motor Speedway Reconfiguration
Atlanta Motor Speedway underwent a reconfiguration in 1997.
1998: First IRL 500 km Race Held
The first 500 km race by the Indy Racing League was held at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 1998.
2000: Completion of Major Renovations
By 2000, Atlanta Motor Speedway completed major renovations, including the addition of 68,000 seats and the reconfiguration of the track to a quad-oval.
2002: IRL Race Removed from Schedule
By the 2002 season, the 500 km race at Atlanta Motor Speedway was removed from the Indy Racing League's schedule.
July 2005: F2 Tornado Hits Facility
In July 2005, an F2 tornado caused by Hurricane Cindy hit Atlanta Motor Speedway, causing an estimated $40 million in damage to its grandstands, condominium complex, and other amenities.
2009: Race Moved to Labor Day Weekend
In 2009, the Ambetter Health 400 race at Atlanta Motor Speedway was moved to Labor Day weekend, changing its traditional fall schedule.
2010: Atlanta Motor Speedway's Maximum Capacity Reported
According to a 2010 report in Atlanta Magazine, the Atlanta Motor Speedway had a maximum capacity of 124,000.
2010: Atlanta Motor Speedway Reaches Peak Capacity
Atlanta Motor Speedway reached its peak capacity of 124,000 in 2010.
2011: Race Moved to Kentucky Speedway
In 2011, the spring race at Atlanta Motor Speedway was moved to Bruton Smith-owned Kentucky Speedway.
2015: Capacity Decrease to 71,000
By 2015, Atlanta Motor Speedway's capacity was decreased to 71,000 seats as part of gradual reductions throughout the 2010s.
2015: Atlanta Motor Speedway Capacity Reported
Atlanta Motor Speedway had a reported capacity of 71,000 as of 2015.
2015: Atlanta Motor Speedway Capacity Reduced
As of 2015, Atlanta Motor Speedway's capacity was reduced to 71,000.
2017: Used as Evacuee Center for Hurricane Irma
Atlanta Motor Speedway served as an evacuee center during Hurricane Irma in 2017.
2017: Used as Stand-in for Charlotte Motor Speedway in Logan Lucky
In 2017, the film Logan Lucky used Atlanta Motor Speedway as a stand-in for Charlotte Motor Speedway.
2018: Used as Evacuee Center for Hurricanes Florence and Michael
In 2018, Atlanta Motor Speedway provided shelter for evacuees during Hurricanes Florence and Michael.
2018: Further Capacity Decreases and New Hospitality Area
In early 2018, Atlanta Motor Speedway further decreased its seating capacity by tearing down an unspecified number of seats to construct a new hospitality area.
December 2019: Clark's Retirement Announcement
In December 2019, Clark announced his retirement as president of Atlanta Motor Speedway, which took effect in March 2020, ending his 27-year tenure.
2019: Used as Evacuee Center for Hurricane Dorian
During Hurricane Dorian in 2019, Atlanta Motor Speedway was used as an evacuee center.
2019: Proposal for $1 Billion Entertainment Complex
In late 2019, Clark announced a proposal to build a $1 billion entertainment complex at Atlanta Motor Speedway, contingent on the legalization of gambling in Georgia.
January 2020: Hearing on Gambling Legalization Proposal
In January 2020, a hearing was scheduled in the Georgia House of Representatives regarding the proposal to build a $1 billion entertainment complex at Atlanta Motor Speedway if gambling was legalized.
March 2020: Clark's Retirement Takes Effect
In March 2020, Clark's retirement as president of Atlanta Motor Speedway took effect, transferring full control to Brandon Hutchison.
March 2021: Renewed Support for Gambling Legalization
In March 2021, there was renewed support for the proposal to legalize gambling in Georgia, with Clark campaigning for the initiative to build an entertainment complex at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
July 6, 2021: Announcement of Repave and Reconfiguration
On July 6, 2021, a repave and subsequent reconfiguration of Atlanta Motor Speedway were officially announced. The changes included increasing banking in the turns and narrowing the racing surface.
2021: Atlanta Motor Speedway Reconfiguration
Atlanta Motor Speedway underwent a reconfiguration in 2021.
2021: Atlanta Motor Speedway Reconfiguration
In 2021, Atlanta Motor Speedway underwent a significant reconfiguration to promote pack racing, a style commonly seen at superspeedways.
2021: Atlanta Marathon and AGT: Extreme Filmed
In 2021, the Atlanta Marathon was held at Atlanta Motor Speedway due to COVID-19 restrictions, and America's Got Talent: Extreme filmed its first season at the facility.
2021: SMI Refuses to Release Capacity Statistics
Speedway Motorsports, Inc. (SMI), the track's parent company, declined to disclose capacity statistics for Atlanta Motor Speedway as late as 2021.
2022: Stagnation of Gambling Legalization Support
By 2022, support for the proposal to legalize gambling in Georgia and build an entertainment complex at Atlanta Motor Speedway had essentially stagnated, despite continued efforts by Hutchison and Clark.
2022: Used as Evacuee Center for Hurricane Ian
In 2022, Atlanta Motor Speedway again served as an evacuee center, this time during Hurricane Ian.
2023: Used as Evacuee Center for Hurricane Idalia
Atlanta Motor Speedway was used as an evacuee center during Hurricane Idalia in 2023.
2023: Race Distance Reduced to 400 Miles
In 2023, the race distance of the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway was reduced back to 400 miles.