Atlanta Motor Speedway

{{Motorsport venue

| Name = EchoPark Speedway

| Location = 1500 Tara Place
Hampton, Georgia
30228

| Time = UTC−05:00 (UTC−04:00 DST)

| Coordinates = {{Coord|33|23|0.58|N|84|19|4.28|W|region:US_type:landmark|display=inline,title}}

| Logo = EchoPark Speedway Atlanta 2025.png

| Image = Atlanta_Motor_Speedway_2024.svg

| Image_caption = Quad-oval (1997–present)

| Broke_ground = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1958|09|17}}

| Opened = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1960|07|25}}

| Owner = Speedway Motorsports (1990–present)

| Construction_cost = {{USD}}1.8 million

| Capacity = 71,000

| Former_names = Atlanta International Raceway (1960–1990)
Atlanta Motor Speedway (1991–2025)

| Events = Current:
NASCAR Cup Series
Ambetter Health 400 (1960–present)
Quaker State 400 (1960–2010, 2021–present)
The Winston (1986)
NASCAR Xfinity Series
Bennett Transportation & Logistics 250 (1992–present)
Focused Health 250 (2021–present)
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
Fr8 208 (2004–2012, 2015–present)
E-Z-Go 200 (2005–2008)

Former:
Indy Racing League
Atlanta 500 Classic (1965–1966, 1978–1979, 1981–1983, 1998–2001)
IMSA GT Championship
Grand Prix of Atlanta (1993)
AMA Superbike Championship (1993–1994)

| Miles_first = True

| Layout1 = Quad-oval (2022–present)

| Length_mi = 1.540

| Length_km = 2.478

| Banking = Turns: 28°
Straights: 5°

| Record_time = 0:29.361

| Record_driver = {{flagicon|USA}} Josh Berry

| Record_car = Ford Mustang GT

| Record_year = 2024

| Record_class = NASCAR

| Layout2 = Quad-oval (1997–2021)

| Length_mi2 = 1.540

| Length_km2 = 2.478

| Banking2 = Turns: 24°
Straights: 5°

| Record_time2 = 0:24.732 (224.163 mph)

| Record_driver2 = {{flagicon|USA}} Billy Boat

| Record_car2 = Dallara IR-7

| Record_year2 = 1998

| Record_class2 = IRL

| Layout3 = Oval (1960–1996)

| Length_mi3 = 1.522

| Length_km3 = 2.449

| Banking3 = Turns: 24°
Straights: 5°

| Layout4 = Road course (1992–1996)

| Length_mi4 = 2.522

| Length_km4 = 4.059

| Record_time4 = 1:13.514

| Record_driver4 = {{flagicon|ARG|1868}} Juan Manuel Fangio II

| Record_car4 = Eagle Mk III

| Record_year4 = 1993

| Record_class4 = IMSA GTP

| website = {{URL|https://www.echoparkspeedway.com/}}

}}

Atlanta Motor Speedway (currently known as EchoPark Speedway for sponsorship reasons, formerly known as the Atlanta International Raceway from 1960 to 1990) is a {{Convert|1.540|mi|km|abbr=on}} quad-oval intermediate speedway in Hampton, Georgia. The track has hosted a variety of sanctioning bodies since its inaugural season of racing in 1960, including NASCAR and IndyCar. The venue has a capacity of 71,000 as of 2015 and includes various track layouts, including a {{Convert|1/4|mi|km}} oval on the track's frontstretch, and a {{Convert|2.5|mi|km}} roval road course layout. Atlanta Motor Speedway is currently owned Speedway Motorsports, LLC (SMI) and is led by track general manager Brandon Hutchison.

In the late 1950s, plans were made by the First Georgia Securities Corporation to build a facility that rivaled the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. After a months-long delay, the first races were held in 1960. Shortly after, the track faced heavy financial troubles, having to enter Chapter 10 bankruptcy in 1971. After periods of stability directed by Stacey Cotton and Walt Nix, the facility was bought out by motorsports mogul Bruton Smith in 1990, with Smith and his company, SMI, directing the facility's expansion and renovation under longtime general manager Ed Clark. The track has since gone through two major reconfigurations since Smith's purchase: one in 1997 that changed the layout of the track, and one in 2021 that changed the style of racing to produce pack racing seen at superspeedways.

Description

= Configurations =

The track in its current form is measured at {{Convert|1.54|mi|km}}, with 28 degrees of banking in the turns and five degrees of banking in the straightaways.{{Cite web |last=Weaver |first=Matt |date=July 6, 2021 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway Reconfigured With Daytona, Talladega In Mind |url=https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a36944476/atlanta-motor-speedway-reconfigured-with-daytona-talladega-in-mind/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 27, 2024 |website=Autoweek |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023734/https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a36944476/atlanta-motor-speedway-reconfigured-with-daytona-talladega-in-mind/ }} The racing surface width varies, with a recorded 52 feet on the frontstretch, 42 feet on the backstretch, and 40 feet in the turns.{{Cite web |last=Engle |first=Greg |date=July 6, 2021 |title=A Driver's Worst Nightmare: Atlanta Motor Speedway Will Get a Re-Pave |url=https://cupscene.com/drivers-worst-nightmare-atlanta-motor-speedway-will-get-re-pave/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 27, 2024 |website=Cup Scene |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023734/https://cupscene.com/drivers-worst-nightmare-atlanta-motor-speedway-will-get-re-pave/ }} From 1997 to 2021, the racing surface was at a recorded 55 feet with 24 degrees of banking in the turns.{{Cite web |last=Estrada |first=Chris |date=July 6, 2021 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway set for 2022 repave, reprofiling |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/atlanta-motor-speedway-repave-reprofiling-2022-nascar-cup-series |url-status=live |access-date=April 11, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=March 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240305113426/https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/atlanta-motor-speedway-repave-reprofiling-2022-nascar-cup-series }} When the track first opened as a true oval, it was advertised to be banked at 24 degrees in the turns, with the straightaways being "banked slightly".{{Cite news |last=Hagen |first=Ross |date=November 12, 1959 |title=Atlanta's New Auto Speedway Will Separate Men From Boys |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-columbus-ledger-atlantas-new-auto-s/144216531/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328055259/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-columbus-ledger-atlantas-new-auto-s/144216531/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=Columbus Ledger |pages=45 |via=Newspapers.com |agency=Associated Press }} {{Open access}}

In 1992, developers added a {{Convert|2.5|mi|km}} road course layout that combined the main oval with a specialized infield portion to create a "roval". As part of the 1997 reconfiguration, developers added a {{Convert|1/4|mi|km}} oval on the track's frontstretch to accommodate legends car racing.{{Cite news |last=Thompson |first=Chuck |date=June 2, 1997 |title=Miniature cars equal giant fun |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-miniature-cars-equal/144331219/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-miniature-cars-equal/144331219/ |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Macon Telegraph |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-miniature-cars-equal/144331243/ 3C] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

= Amenities =

File:Atlanta Motor Speedway, 1500 Tara Place Condominiums.JPG

Atlanta Motor Speedway is next to the concurrent U.S. Route 41 and U.S. Route 19, along with Georgia State Route 20.{{Cite web |date=August 29, 2023 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway opening gates for Hurricane Idalia evacuees |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/henry-county/atlanta-motor-speedway-opening-gates-hurricane-idalia-evacuees/LJOMKNYH2ZA7NDZEOZ7KH2A7L4/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 27, 2024 |website=WSB-TV |language=en |archive-date=August 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230830013820/https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/henry-county/atlanta-motor-speedway-opening-gates-hurricane-idalia-evacuees/LJOMKNYH2ZA7NDZEOZ7KH2A7L4/ }} As of 2015, the track had a reported capacity of 71,000,{{Cite web |last=Long |first=Dustin |date=March 9, 2015 |title=Financial reports provide insight into seating capacities for tracks that host NASCAR races |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/financial-reports-provide-insight-into-seating-capacities-for-tracks-that-host-nascar-races |url-status=live |access-date=March 27, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328055259/https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/financial-reports-provide-insight-into-seating-capacities-for-tracks-that-host-nascar-races }} with recent estimates being unknown due to the track's parent company, SMI, refusing to release capacity statistics as late as 2021.{{Cite web |date=April 30, 2021 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway to allow full capacity |url=https://www.espn.com/auto/story/_/id/31366077/atlanta-motor-speedway-allow-full-capacity-july-nascar-weekend |url-status=live |access-date=March 27, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en |agency=Associated Press |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328055259/https://www.espn.com/auto/story/_/id/31366077/atlanta-motor-speedway-allow-full-capacity-july-nascar-weekend }} At its peak, the facility held a maximum of 124,000 according to a 2010 report by the Atlanta Magazine. The track complex also features a nine-story condominium complex called Tara Place. It was completed in 1994 and features 46 units along with a ballroom.{{Cite news |last=Kimes |first=Kent |date=August 31, 1995 |title=Tara Ballroom is track's 'missing link' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-tara-ballroom-is-tra/145108368/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=J1 |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} In total, the facility covers around 850 acres of land.{{Cite web |last=Walker |first=Grace |date=January 29, 2020 |title=Retiring Atlanta Motor Speedway President Ed Clark Reflects On 40 Years In The NASCAR Industry |url=https://www.wabe.org/retiring-atlanta-motor-speedway-president-ed-clark-reflects-on-40-years-in-the-nascar-industry/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 11, 2024 |website=WABE-TV |language=en-US |archive-date=January 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200129190435/https://www.wabe.org/retiring-atlanta-motor-speedway-president-ed-clark-reflects-on-40-years-in-the-nascar-industry/ }}

Track history

= Planning and construction =

On April 8, 1958, The Atlanta Constitution reported that the First Georgia Securities Corporation, led by president Richard W. King, announced plans to build a $1 million (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=1000000|start_year=1958|fmt=c}}), 50,000-seat, 400-acre racing facility {{Convert|20|mi|km}} south of Atlanta along a location near U.S. Route 41. Atlanta International Raceway, Inc. (AIR) was formed to head the project.{{Cite news |last=Gregory |first=Ralph |date=April 8, 1958 |title=Million $ Speedway Planned For Atlanta |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-million-speed/144150941/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326222357/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-million-speed/144150941/ |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=10, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-million-speed/144150947/ 11] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Two months later, King and racing promoter of the nearby Lakewood Speedway, Carl Queen, opened a stock sale to the general public, with 479,550 shares being offered at $4 each; along with the announcement, the duo stated hopes of hosting NASCAR and United States Auto Club (USAC)-sanctioned races.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 18, 1958 |title=King and Queen Head Raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-king-and-queen-head/144150968/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326222359/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-king-and-queen-head/144150968/ |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=30 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} King later stated hopes of expanding the facility's uses to include "almost any conceivable outdoor show", with developers hoping to host four major races annually.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 26, 1958 |title=Four Big Races In Giant Raceway Plans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-four-big-races-in-gi/144151064/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052327/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-four-big-races-in-gi/144151064/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=57 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} With the announcements, it was slated to become the second-biggest racing facility in the United States at the time, only behind the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.{{Cite news |last=Gregory |first=Ralph |date=June 20, 1958 |title=A Big League Step |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-a-big-league-st/144151059/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052323/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-a-big-league-st/144151059/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=16 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

The stock sale stagnated, with only $40,000 worth of shares being sold by the end of July.{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=July 31, 1958 |title=The University of Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-the-university-of-go/144159864/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052326/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-the-university-of-go/144159864/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=45 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In August, drivers Curtis Turner and Joe Weatherly were announced by King as racing directors within the track's leadership, replacing Queen and Ernie Troutman, whose stock in the company was bought by track directors.{{Cite news |last=Atkinson |first=Paul |date=August 3, 1958 |title=Turner, Weatherly New Raceway Heads |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-turner-weatherly-ne/144159826/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052324/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-turner-weatherly-ne/144159826/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=70 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} With Queen sacked, he and King entered into a dispute over future race dates between Lakewood Speedway and Atlanta International Raceway, with both stating that they weren't willing to give up dates if they happened to run races on the same day.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 5, 1958 |title=AIR–Lakewood Forces May Tangle on Dates |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airlakewood-forces/144159841/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052325/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airlakewood-forces/144159841/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=36 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Groundbreaking occurred on September 17 at 1 PM EST, with King stating plans to host the first races at the facility "sometime in 1959";{{Cite news |date=September 17, 1958 |title=Atlanta's Raceway Breaks Ground At 1 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlantas-racew/144160058/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052321/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlantas-racew/144160058/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=29 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |date=September 18, 1958 |title=Race Bosses To Consult Expert |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-race-bosses-to-consu/144160106/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052326/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-race-bosses-to-consu/144160106/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=60 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} actual work on the facility, however, did not start until late November.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=November 25, 1958 |title=AIR Begins Work On New Track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-begins-work-on-n/144215506/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327052320/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-begins-work-on-n/144215506/ |archive-date=March 27, 2024 |access-date=March 26, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=13 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

== Delays and postponements ==

By February 1959, Turner and Weatherly both threatened to resign from their positions and file lawsuits against the company, with Weatherly stating that they did not pay them enough for stock sold at meetings, a claim which King refuted.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=February 10, 1959 |title=AIR's Weatherly, Turner May Leave Directors' Jobs |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-airs-weatherly/144215522/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023736/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-airs-weatherly/144215522/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=26 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In addition, Weatherly claimed that he only hired to promote and did not want to be involved with selling stock, but was later forced to; he also implied that the financial situation and opening date of the track was unstable, stating, "They painted us a pretty picture... that picture isn't so pretty anymore".{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=February 11, 1959 |title='AIR Pictures Not Pretty Now' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-pictures-not-pr/144215633/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023739/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-pictures-not-pr/144215633/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=18 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Four months later, although stock sales saw further stagnation, the project was able to secure a $400,000 loan, with King claiming that construction progressed enough that construction crews started building the grandstands.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 18, 1959 |title=AIR Surges Back On $400,000 Pot |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-surges-back-on/144215641/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023741/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-surges-back-on/144215641/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=32 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The number of flagship races for the track later decreased to three.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 22, 1959 |title=AIR Makes Plans For Three Races |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-makes-plans-for/144215679/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023740/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-makes-plans-for/144215679/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=12 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

A NASCAR-sanctioned race for November 22, 1959, was set in late August, with NASCAR executive director Pat Purcell stating that he thought that the facility would be completed within the next 60 days.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 19, 1959 |title=AIR Schedules NASCAR '300' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-schedules-nascar/144215715/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023735/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-schedules-nascar/144215715/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=44 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=August 23, 1959 |title=AIR Gets NASCAR, Slates 35-Grand Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-gets-nascar-sla/144216393/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023738/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-gets-nascar-sla/144216393/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In its USAC ventures, however, Indianapolis Motor Speedway superintendent Clarence Cagle recommended changes to the track to increase safety for it to have a better chance at receiving a USAC date.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=August 26, 1959 |title=It's Straight Scoop When It Comes From Indy's Cagle |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-its-straight-s/144216404/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023737/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-its-straight-s/144216404/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=34 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Construction hit its first snag when road building was delayed due to fears of explosive hazards in August.{{Cite news |date=August 28, 1959 |title=Pipeline Injunction Halts Raceway Road Building |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-pipeline-injunc/144216426/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023742/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-pipeline-injunc/144216426/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=23 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In October, 20 days of rain plagued the track's construction, with construction being left half complete. As a result, track leaders decided to postpone the race, hoping to reschedule it in December or January 1960.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=November 4, 1959 |title=AIR Postpones Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-postpones-race/144216463/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023737/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-postpones-race/144216463/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=46 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=November 5, 1959 |title=AIR To Delay Run Of 300-Mile Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-to-delay-ru/144216474/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023734/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-to-delay-ru/144216474/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=33 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The race was eventually postponed to March 27, the same day as a major race for Lakewood Speedway;{{Cite news |last=Muhleman |first=Max |date=January 11, 1960 |title=Two Races Same Day |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-news-two-races-same-day/144326715/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234919/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-news-two-races-same-day/144326715/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Charlotte News |pages=3B |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} however, with the track still being constructed by February, leaders opted to postpone the race indefinitely.{{Cite news |date=February 4, 1960 |title=Stock Race Delayed Again |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-stock-race-dela/144216548/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328023743/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-stock-race-dela/144216548/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 27, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=35 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

Four months later, Art Lester replaced King as president of the facility after he obtained over $1 million in financial aid.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 14, 1960 |title=AIR Sets July 31 Date; Lester Named President |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-sets-july-31-dat/144244581/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234917/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-sets-july-31-dat/144244581/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=32, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-sets-july-31-dat/144268262/ 36] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In addition, the track was able to reschedule the NASCAR race for a July 31 date along with the addition of another unscheduled NASCAR race within the year, signing a $636,000 contract with the E. Jack Smith Construction Company to build the remainder of the track.{{Cite news |last=Sewell |first=Dick |date=June 14, 1960 |title=AIR Inks Contracts To Complete Track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-inks-contra/144244520/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234925/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-inks-contra/144244520/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=31, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-inks-contra/144244552/ 32] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} USAC, despite encouraging words from USAC director of competition Henry Banks,{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 18, 1960 |title=Banks Says AIR's Fine |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-banks-says-airs-fin/144245346/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234924/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-banks-says-airs-fin/144245346/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=5 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} reportedly refused to race at the facility unless "changes are made in the banking of the track", with USAC claiming they found "one dip especially awkward".{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=June 22, 1960 |title=Timing And A Little Luck... And McDuffie's Back |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-timing-and-a-li/144244627/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234920/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-timing-and-a-li/144244627/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=37 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} By the end of June, while NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. was confident that the track would be ready for racing by July 31, he stated that developers had "a heck of a lot of work to do".{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 30, 1960 |title=France: USAC Should Quit the Stock Cars |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-france-usac-should/144245544/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234921/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-france-usac-should/144245544/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=63 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} On July 3, Furman Bisher, a writer for The Atlanta Journal, remarked that while he was able to confirm that the facility would open on time, he wrote that the facility had only built "necessary conveniences", had costed $1.8 million, and that most of its original leadership abandoned the project by its completion.{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=July 3, 1960 |title=A Look at AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-a-look-at-air/144245626/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234926/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-a-look-at-air/144245626/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

= First years =

The first tests on the facility were ran by Jack Smith on July 10, with Smith being told to sandbag the session.{{Cite news |date=July 11, 1960 |title=Smith Goes Light, Hits 114 in Trial |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-smith-goes-ligh/144245735/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234922/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-smith-goes-ligh/144245735/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=12 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The facility officially opened to teams on July 25 for pre-race activities for the 1960 Dixie 300; however, the track saw immediate problems. Purcell ordered the fixing of a seven-foot flaw "between the straightaway and the pits" the same day,{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 26, 1960 |title=Lester Re-elected AIR Prexy; Dixie 300 Trials Wednesday |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lester-re-elect/144326493/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214531/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lester-re-elect/144326493/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=26 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} with no protective guardrails were installed.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=July 27, 1960 |title=Flock: 'This Is What I Know' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-flock-this-is-what/144439272/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213025/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-flock-this-is-what/144439272/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=18 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Rain plagued the track on the 28th, with "a bad bump in the middle groove of the first turn" being reported by drivers.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 29, 1960 |title=Drivers Pronounce AIR Track Fast |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-drivers-pronoun/144410933/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213026/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-drivers-pronoun/144410933/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=43 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} To run the race, track executive Alf Lester hired 17 high school football players for a week.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=March 17, 1976 |title=Perils of Pauline |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986069/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053918/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986069/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986074/ 6D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The race itself did not produce any major problems in the track,{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=August 1, 1960 |title=Defeat for a Little Man |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-defeat-for-a-little/144440679/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213024/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-defeat-for-a-little/144440679/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=16 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} with a crowd of 25,000 witnessing Edwin "Fireball" Roberts winning the inaugural race.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=August 1, 1960 |title=Roberts Fireballs His Way To Torrid Dixie 300 Win |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411230/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214533/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411230/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=13, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411244/ 14] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The victory was disputed by numerous drivers, most notably runner-up Cotton Owens who accused NASCAR officials of a scoring error.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 1, 1960 |title='I'll Go To My Grave Saying I Won' – Owens |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411274/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214530/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411274/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=16, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411287/ 19] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Bisher later criticized the facility, stating that "[nothing] was ready, there was dirt everywhere. It was like a county fair in the boondocks".{{Cite web |last=Auchmutey |first=Jim |date=September 1, 2010 |title=Checkered History |url=https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/atlanta-motor-speedway-turns-50/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 4, 2024 |website=Atlanta Magazine |language=en-US |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055512/https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/atlanta-motor-speedway-turns-50/ }} Two weeks later, another annual NASCAR-sanctioned race, the Atlanta 500, was confirmed to be run in late October.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 13, 1960 |title=AIR Faces Fight In Control Row |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-faces-fight-in-c/144441880/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184656/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-faces-fight-in-c/144441880/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=7 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

On the same day, an attempt to overthrow Lester by an opposing stockholder group led by T. Walker Jackson and A. E. Deermont was formed because they felt that "Lester is not doing a good job".{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 17, 1960 |title=Opponents Force AIR Proxy Fight |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-opponents-force-air/144441913/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184658/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-opponents-force-air/144441913/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=22 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Lester, who was facing his second attempt to overthrow him during his tenure, angrily stated that if he was overthrown, leadership would have to pay off an insurmountable $562,000 mortgage payment. A vote was scheduled for September 10, with Jackson claiming that their group had enough votes to sack Lester, unlike the first attempt.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 31, 1960 |title=AIR Stockholders To Meet Sept. 10 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stockholders-to/144443387/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184659/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stockholders-to/144443387/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=26 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} A lawsuit was filed on September 1 by 15 stockholders who supported Lester against five opposing stockholders who claimed that they wanted to hold a special stockholders' meeting to oust the current leadership, leading to the "endanger[ment of] the corporation's financial structure".{{Cite news |date=September 1, 1960 |title=15 AIR Owners Sue |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-15-air-owners-s/144443427/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184659/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-15-air-owners-s/144443427/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=38 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} A second lawsuit, filed by director I. C. Mitchell for libel, was made nine days later against Deermont and four other stockholders that claimed his reputation was damaged in a letter sent to 800 stockholders, which allegedly stated that Mitchell stole $100,000 in gate revenue.{{Cite news |date=September 9, 1960 |title=AIR Director Sues Five Stockholders |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-director-su/144443502/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184700/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-director-su/144443502/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=40 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Although Lester was able to garner enough support by election day to retain the current administration,{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 10, 1960 |title=AIR's Proxy Battle A Dud |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airs-proxy-battle-a/144450451/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160645/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airs-proxy-battle-a/144450451/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=6 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} he decided to resign from his position,{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 12, 1960 |title=Lester to Resign at AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450472/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160647/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450472/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=19, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450497/ 21] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} handing it to Nelson Weaver.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 14, 1960 |title=Weaver Named Chairman of AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-weaver-named-chairma/144500345/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160649/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-weaver-named-chairma/144500345/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=25 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

Renovations were steadily made during the first years. A guardrail was eventually installed by late October in time for the 1960 Atlanta 500,{{Cite news |last=Flowers |first=Jackie |date=October 25, 1960 |title=AIR Rail Goes Up; Welborn Joins Field |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-rail-goes-up-we/144510347/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160647/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-rail-goes-up-we/144510347/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=43 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} but parts of the track still remained unpaved.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=October 20, 1960 |title='Runaway' Cars Threat at AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-runaway-cars-threa/144510125/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160643/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-runaway-cars-threa/144510125/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=65 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} A new scoreboard, touted as the "world's most modern" by The Atlanta Journal, was installed nearly two years later.{{Cite news |date=March 18, 1962 |title=Something New Added For Fans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-something-new-added/144708900/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404192057/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-something-new-added/144708900/ |archive-date=April 4, 2024 |access-date=April 3, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=7F |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} By mid-1963, after further renovations, Weaver announced that the facility was able to make $179,046 (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=179046|start_year=1963|fmt=c}}) in profit for the year, displaying financial success.{{Cite news |last=Logue |first=John |date=July 17, 1963 |title=A.I.R. in the Black, Clears $179,046 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-in-the-black/144708961/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404192040/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-in-the-black/144708961/ |archive-date=April 4, 2024 |access-date=April 3, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=23 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In 1965, Weaver announced preliminary plans to build a $500,000 dragstrip.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=February 25, 1965 |title=Half-Million Drag Strip Slated For A.I.R. In 1966 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-half-million-drag-st/144900578/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231338/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-half-million-drag-st/144900578/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 6, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=46 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In 1967, rumors about the potential sale of AIR to various prospective buyers were reported, including driver and businessman Curtis Turner{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=April 27, 1967 |title='No Firm Offer' Made for Track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-no-firm-offer/144946900/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408031229/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-no-firm-offer/144946900/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=54 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} and then-Atlanta Braves owner William Bartholomay.{{Cite news |date=Mar 13, 1967 |title=Braves Eye Race Track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-braves-eye-race-trac/144947265/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408031231/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-braves-eye-race-trac/144947265/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Macon Telegraph |pages=7 |via=Newspapers.com |agency=Associated Press }} {{Open access}} Weaver later died on February 16, 1968.{{Cite news |date=February 17, 1968 |title=Nelson Weaver Dies |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-nelson-weaver-dies/144856428/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231336/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-nelson-weaver-dies/144856428/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 6, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1B |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The day before his death, Weaver appointed Jack Black to replace his position as president of AIR.{{Cite news |last=Cook |first=Dan |date=March 16, 1968 |title=Cookin' with Gas |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/ledger-enquirer-cookin-with-gas/144900014/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231333/https://www.newspapers.com/article/ledger-enquirer-cookin-with-gas/144900014/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 6, 2024 |work=Ledger-Enquirer |pages=9 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

= American Raceways merger, financial troubles =

Throughout the facility's first few years, most of its NASCAR-sanctioned races were plagued by rain delays, leading to financial troubles. In addition, according to Macon News writer John Krueger, AIR leadership was plagued by "power struggles for several years" along with "too many chiefs and not enough Indians".{{Cite news |last=Krueger |first=John |date=January 24, 1971 |title=Green Flag for MGR, AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-news-green-flag-for-mgr-air/144807622/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408031228/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-news-green-flag-for-mgr-air/144807622/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Macon News |pages=3B |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} NASCAR personalities, including Junior Johnson and Buddy Arrington, also stated displeasure with the facility, with a poor track surface, heavy mismanagement, and traffic concerns being key issues.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=February 14, 1973 |title=AIR's Biggest Need: A Transfusion of Green |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-airs-biggest-n/144985546/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-airs-biggest-n/144985555/ 4D] |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055857/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-airs-biggest-n/144985546/ }} Before Weaver died, he used his own finances to keep the track afloat; the stability went away after his death. Under Black's leadership, in December 1968, AIR merged with the Lawrence LoPatin-owned Michigan International Speedway, which was built in the same year. With the deal, AIR announced an investment of $1 million worth of renovations for the facility, which covered a repave, a new dragstrip, seating expansion, and amenity improvements.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=December 20, 1968 |title=A.I.R. Makes Big Change |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-makes-big-cha/144948289/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408031230/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-makes-big-cha/144948289/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=2C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Zier |first=Pat |date=December 20, 1968 |title=AIR Merges With Track In Michigan |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-merges-with/144948388/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408031226/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-merges-with/144948388/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=68, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-merges-with/144948418/ 71] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The merger was approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in March 1969.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=March 13, 1969 |title=A.I.R. Merger Receives Approval Of The S.E.C. |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-merger-receiv/144950129/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408031232/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-merger-receiv/144950129/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

By late 1969, after LoPatin expanded the company and a rebranded it to American Raceways, the company fell into financial trouble after their director of operations, Les Richter, left the company.{{Cite news |date=October 22, 1969 |title=France Proposes Pension |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-france-proposes-pens/144974265/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053920/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-france-proposes-pens/144974265/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In response, American Raceways merged with the STP Corporation.{{Cite news |last=Hudspeth |first=Ron |date=January 23, 1970 |title=Granatelli to Become Part Owner of AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-granatelli-to-become/144974665/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053921/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-granatelli-to-become/144974665/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-granatelli-to-become/144974686/ 5C] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The next year, AIR directors attempted to stop LoPatin from purchasing controlling interest of the facility;{{Cite news |last=Zier |first=Pat |date=January 30, 1970 |title=Stop LoPatin Is AIR Goal |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-stop-lopatin-is/144974835/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053913/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-stop-lopatin-is/144974835/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=3C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} by this point, LoPatin was seen as a self-centered dictator who had virtually no practical experience with racing within local Atlanta media.{{Cite news |last=Zier |first=Pat |date=June 23, 1970 |title=LoPatin --- No Rain --- AIR's 'Hex' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lopatin-no/144974986/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053925/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lopatin-no/144974986/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=5C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In June, AIR directors initiated plans to sever ties from American Raceways after numerous executives, including Black, were removed from active roles or resigned due to LoPatin's leadership and the company's financial troubles.{{Cite news |last=Zier |first=Pat |date=June 26, 1970 |title=Lopatin Ouster Is AIR Goal? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lopatin-ouster/144975027/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053925/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lopatin-ouster/144975027/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Hudspeth |first=Ron |date=June 29, 1970 |title=AIR Fights LoPatin |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-fights-lopatin/144975083/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053917/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-fights-lopatin/144975083/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-fights-lopatin/144975116/ 5D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} However, by mid-July, American Raceways was able to purchase complete control over AIR.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=July 16, 1970 |title=LoPatin Wins Battle for A.I.R. |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lopatin-wins-battle/144975644/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053916/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lopatin-wins-battle/144975644/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lopatin-wins-battle/144975660/ 4D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} LoPatin was reportedly ousted shortly after from his position, with Charlotte Motor Speedway president Richard Howard deciding to assist the track so it could run the 1970 Dixie 500.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=July 30, 1970 |title=Big Howard Comes to AIR Rescue |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-big-howard-comes-to/144975704/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053917/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-big-howard-comes-to/144975704/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=D6 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Furman Bisher later recalled, "it was run like a 10-year-old boy would run a candy store. People who knew nothing about racing were trying to run races. Stockholders who knew nothing about a race track were trying to tell people who did how a race track ought to be run."{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=August 5, 1970 |title=Now Playing First Chair |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-now-playing-first-ch/144984920/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053919/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-now-playing-first-ch/144984920/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

By the running of the Dixie 500 in August, American Raceways oversaw numerous major executive changes.{{Cite news |last=Hudspeth |first=Ron |date=August 2, 1970 |title=Fast Fred Makes Bid |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-fast-fred-makes/144981817/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053915/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-fast-fred-makes/144981817/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-fast-fred-makes/144981832/ 4C] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The race itself was under threat of being cancelled when the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) demanded they pay $35,000 as a partial payment on their delinquent taxes, which totaled over $58,000.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=August 3, 1970 |title=Federals Move in on AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-federals-move-in-on/144806952/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231342/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-federals-move-in-on/144806952/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-federals-move-in-on/144806979/ 6C] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} As part of a last-ditch effort to save the facility from filing bankruptcy, they hoped to merge companies with the Charlotte Motor Speedway, led by track president Richard Howard.{{Cite news |last=Zier |first=Pat |date=October 30, 1970 |title=AIR-Charlotte Merger May Help Local Oval |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-charlotte-m/144807004/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231335/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-charlotte-m/144807004/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=3D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} A deal with Charlotte was officially confirmed in December; an announcement that American Raceways had left the track's management was also made.{{Cite news |last=Jackson |first=Teague |date=December 4, 1970 |title=Charlotte Speedway Buys AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-charlotte-speedway-b/144807043/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231332/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-charlotte-speedway-b/144807043/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-charlotte-speedway-b/144807093/ 6D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} However, a month later, Charlotte backed out of the merger, with Howard claiming that "many factors", including a local 5% "amusement tax" on gate receipts, misleading debt figures, and an increase of ad-valorem tax by fourfold had made him back out of the deal, essentially sealing the facility's fate of bankruptcy.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=January 13, 1971 |title=Charlotte Backs Out on A.I.R. Merger |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-charlotte-backs-out/144807124/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231355/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-charlotte-backs-out/144807124/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-charlotte-backs-out/144807143/ 3D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

== Bankruptcy ==

Atlanta International Raceway officially filed for Chapter 10 bankruptcy on January 19, 1971, becoming a ward under the orders of United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia judge Sidney Oslin Smith Jr.{{Cite news |last=Hudspeth |first=Ron |date=January 19, 1971 |title=Debts Frozen, A.I.R. to Run |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-debts-frozen-air/144807180/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231339/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-debts-frozen-air/144807180/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-debts-frozen-air/144807211/ 5D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The court later appointed attorney R. Neal Batson to run the track as trustee.{{Cite news |last=Hudspeth |first=Ron |date=January 31, 1971 |title=A.I.R. Faces 'Do or Die' Bind |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-faces-d/144807710/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231347/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-faces-d/144807710/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-faces-d/144807732/ 6C] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The bankruptcy itself was also seen as a key point that put the stability of stock car racing into question; superspeedways like Atlanta across the Southeast had found themselves in economic trouble, with car manufacturers withdrawing financial support from it.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=February 7, 1971 |title=Is Stock Car Racing Facing a Crossroads? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-is-stock-car-racing/144808480/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231334/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-is-stock-car-racing/144808480/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=8C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} At the time of the filing, the facility found itself with around $1,400,000 in debt.{{Cite news |last=Outlar |first=Jesse |date=February 11, 1971 |title=The Survival 500 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-the-survival-50/144807996/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231344/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-the-survival-50/144807996/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} With the move, the facility was able to hold the 1971 Atlanta 500, securing a loan from the First National Bank of Atlanta.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=January 20, 1971 |title=A.I.R. Hopes To Follow Charlotte Footsteps |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-hopes-to-foll/144807307/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231351/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-hopes-to-foll/144807307/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=4D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Five board members also pledged to raise $175,000–200,000 for the race to run.{{Cite news |last=Zier |first=Pat |date=January 20, 1971 |title=Move By AIR Solidifies Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-move-by-air-sol/144807585/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231348/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-move-by-air-sol/144807585/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The race later found itself to be crucial to AIR's survival; with a crowd of 65,000 or more being claimed for the minimum number needed for its survival,{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=March 28, 1971 |title=Atlanta Raceway Faces Its Day of Reckoning |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlanta-raceway/144808262/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231349/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlanta-raceway/144808262/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=10H |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} former general manager Hal Hamrick stated, "If the fans don't turnout for this one, it is the end of major league auto racing in Atlanta and the end of AIR".

The 1971 Atlanta 500 saw a crowd of around 57,000.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=April 6, 1971 |title=Future of AIR Still Up in Air |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-future-of-air-s/144808436/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231345/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-future-of-air-s/144808436/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} While below the number that was claimed to be needed, Batson viewed it optimistically, although warning that "we're not out of the woods".{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=April 5, 1971 |title=A.I.R. Stride Toward Solvency |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stride-toward/144808361/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231340/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stride-toward/144808361/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} After the race, three groups displayed interest in buying the track, including Howard. In May, Batson was replaced by lawyer Stacy Cotton as trustee,{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=May 4, 1971 |title=Batson Replaced At AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-batson-replaced/144808632/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231350/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-batson-replaced/144808632/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} with Walter Nix later being appointed as general manager.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=May 28, 1971 |title=Nix Named General Manager |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-nix-named-gener/144808639/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406231352/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-nix-named-gener/144808639/ |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |access-date=April 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=3D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Within the first year of bankruptcy, AIR made around $188,000, showing optimistic progress.{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=March 19, 1972 |title=A.I.R. Report: No Flak Flying for Atlanta 500 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-report/144985332/ |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=17D |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055852/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-report/144985332/ |url-status=live }} In the 1972 Atlanta 500, a storm plagued the track, destroying numerous amenities, including concession stands and parts of grandstands.{{Cite web |last=Briggs |first=Josh |date=September 3, 2011 |title=Local used to run Atlanta Motor Speedway |url=https://www.covnews.com/news/local-used-to-run-atlanta-motor-speedway/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=The Covington News |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053912/https://www.covnews.com/news/local-used-to-run-atlanta-motor-speedway/ }} However, despite the storm, the race was able to make a profit.{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=March 28, 1972 |title=Track 'Turning Around' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-track-turning/144985405/ |url-status=live |access-date=February 5, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055900/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-track-turning/144985405/ }} The next year, while making around $750,000 in profit,{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=November 7, 1973 |title=Cinderella Time? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-cinderella-time/144985735/ |access-date=February 1, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com}} Cotton approved a reorganization plan that would allow Jim Baker and Walter Nix to own controlling interest of the track for $500,000, with the duo planning to use $350,000 of the money to buy stocks.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=May 1, 1973 |title=Baker–Nix Offer OK'd By Trustee |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-bakernix-offer/144985594/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055847/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-bakernix-offer/144985594/ }}{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Jim |date=June 25, 1973 |title=Cotton Comes to AIR with a Plan, But Will the Track Ever Prosper? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-cotton-comes-to-air/144985724/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055904/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-cotton-comes-to-air/144985724/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The plan caused some outrage among minority stockholders, who felt that the value of their stock had decreased massively with the deal.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=May 4, 1972 |title=No Waves, No Uprisings at AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-no-waves-no-up/144985669/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=13D |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055858/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-no-waves-no-up/144985669/ }}

Bankruptcy judge W. H. Drake recommended the reorganization plan in June.{{Cite news |date=June 22, 1973 |title=AIR Seems Stable Now |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-seems-stabl/144985713/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055859/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-seems-stabl/144985713/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=3D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The next month, North Carolina Motor Speedway president L. G. DeWitt joined Baker and Nix in their bid to own the track.{{Cite news |date=July 23, 1973 |title=DeWitt Joins AIR Takeover |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-dewitt-joins-ai/145000691/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055858/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-dewitt-joins-ai/145000691/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=6D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The reorganization plan was rejected by AIR stockholders; in response, Drake made modifications to appease the opposing stockholders.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=December 6, 1973 |title=Judge Moves To Give Trio AIR Control |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-judge-moves-to/144985746/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055856/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-judge-moves-to/144985746/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=3D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} By the end of the year, Smith awarded the three ownership and placed Larry Hogan and Bob Latford to run AIR. However, in April 1974, leading stockholder James Price challenged the decision in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, as stockholders voted again to reject the plan.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=April 16, 1974 |title=Hogan, Latford Will Direct AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-hogan-latford/145000911/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055850/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-hogan-latford/145000911/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Price claimed that if the three bought the track, the stock would lose five-sixths of its value.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=June 16, 1974 |title=A Tiger by the Tail |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-a-tiger-by-the/145000936/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055851/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-a-tiger-by-the/145000936/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The court denied Price's bid in January 1975, essentially setting up control for the three.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=January 10, 1975 |title=Appeals Court Denies Price's Bid |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-appeals-court-d/144985827/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055901/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-appeals-court-d/144985827/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=5C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Price later appealed to the Supreme Court of the United States in May,{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=May 16, 1975 |title=Price Steps up Fight for AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-price-steps-up/144985875/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055902/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-price-steps-up/144985875/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-price-steps-up/144985892/ 11D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} who rejected to hear his appeal.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=May 23, 1975 |title=Supreme Court Refuses To Hear Price's Petition |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-supreme-court-r/144985894/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055903/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-supreme-court-r/144985894/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2E |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The initial phase of reorganization that included debt payments began in July of that year.{{Cite news |last=Tucker |first=Tom |date=July 12, 1975 |title=Future Brightens For Speedway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-future-brightens-for/144985900/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055847/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-future-brightens-for/144985900/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=12A |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} By January 1976, the second phase started, which gave creditors options for their stock.{{Cite news |date=January 22, 1976 |title=Raceway Plans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-news-raceway-plans/144986059/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055905/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-news-raceway-plans/144986059/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=The Macon News |pages=2C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Two months later, on March 10, the track was officially turned over to a five-man board of directors, ending five years of bankruptcy.{{Cite news |date=March 16, 1976 |title=A.I.R. In Stable Shape |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/stanly-news-and-press-air-in-stable-s/145039085/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409055849/https://www.newspapers.com/article/stanly-news-and-press-air-in-stable-s/145039085/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=Stanly News and Press |pages=9A |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} With the deal, the three owned around 52% of AIR.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=March 11, 1976 |title=Pearson, Fans Mingle |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-pearson-fans-m/145216364/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=2E |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}}

= Post-bankruptcy under Walter Nix and L. G. DeWitt =

In 1978, AIR underwent a repave which was completed by June of that year.{{Cite news |last=Giffen |first=Tom |date=March 15, 1978 |title=Drivers Bump Along for Last Time |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/ledger-enquirer-drivers-bump-along-for-l/145216071/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427031837/https://www.newspapers.com/article/ledger-enquirer-drivers-bump-along-for-l/145216071/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=Ledger-Enquirer |pages=D1 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Mulhurn |first=Mike |date=June 30, 1978 |title=Johncock Clocked at 188; Atlanta Asphalt Crumbling |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-johncock-clocked-a/145216098/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427031850/https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-johncock-clocked-a/145216098/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=Winston-Salem Journal |pages=37, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-johncock-clocked-a/145216101/ 40] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} By the end of the year, Hogan resigned from his position as general manager.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=December 5, 1978 |title=Hogan Leaves Position At AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-hogan-leaves-po/145215544/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427031842/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-hogan-leaves-po/145215544/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=5D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The next year, during the 1979 Atlanta 500, the first fatality at AIR occurred when Dennis Wade, an 18-year-old mechanic for Dave Watson, was hit by Watson after he spun on pit road, killing Wade.{{Cite news |last=Hinton |first=Ed |date=March 19, 1979 |title=Pit Road Mishap Kills Crewman |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-pit-road-mishap-kill/145215803/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427031845/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-pit-road-mishap-kill/145215803/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-pit-road-mishap-kill/145215815/ 3D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Within the year, Winston-Salem Journal writer Mike Mulhurn reported that a group directed by Hogan tried to oust DeWitt from his leadership at both North Carolina Motor Speedway and AIR.{{Cite news |last=Mulhurn |first=Mike |date=March 19, 1979 |title=Factions Struggle for Control of N.C. Motor Speedway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-factions-struggle/145215955/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024254/https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-factions-struggle/145215955/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=Winston-Salem Journal |pages=37 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} However, the takeover of both facilities failed.{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=March 20, 1979 |title=AIR Takeover Bid Fails |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-takeover-bi/145215564/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024223/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-takeover-bi/145215564/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=5D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In 1984, a crash including driver Terry Schoonover claimed the life of the first racer at the facility during the 1984 Atlanta Journal 500.{{Cite news |last=Wilkinson |first=Jack |date=November 12, 1984 |title=Crash claims life of Schoonover |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-crash-claims-li/145215836/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024225/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-crash-claims-li/145215836/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-crash-claims-li/145215848/ 8D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Partly as a result of Schoonover's death, then-general manager Mike Helton announced the construction of new walls.{{Cite news |last=McCollister |first=Tom |date=June 5, 1985 |title=AIR will build wall, make track safer |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-will-build/137029299/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231218210036/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-will-build/137029299/ |archive-date=December 18, 2023 |access-date=December 18, 2023 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} In January 1986, Helton announced $3 million in renovations ahead of the 1986 The Winston.{{Cite news |last=McCollister |first=Tom |date=January 22, 1986 |title=AIR plans renovation in time for Winston |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-plans-renovation/137029549/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231218204525/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-plans-renovation/137029549/ |archive-date=December 18, 2023 |access-date=December 18, 2023 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=3C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Two years later, the facility went through its second repave in 10 years; the repave was meant to be done the next year, but Nix decided otherwise.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=May 22, 1988 |title=AIR repaves NASCAR's 'gray old lady' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-repaves-nas/145215551/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=29D |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} In September 1989, The Charlotte Observer reported that motorsports businessman Roger Penske offered to purchase the facility from DeWitt and Nix at an unspecified amount.{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tom |date=September 14, 1989 |title=Penske Reportedly Trying To Buy Atlanta Raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-penske-reportedly/145215605/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024158/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-penske-reportedly/145215605/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-penske-reportedly/145215615/ 7B] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} However, on the 22nd, the duo was reported to have rejected Penske's offer.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=September 22, 1989 |title=Nix and DeWitt Reject Penske Bid to Buy AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-nix-and-dewitt/145215642/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024212/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-nix-and-dewitt/145215642/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=F2 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

= Bruton Smith era =

On February 22, 1990, both Charlotte and Atlanta local media reported that negotiations between Nix and a prospective buyer looking to purchase AIR, Charlotte Motor Speedway owner Bruton Smith, began.{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tom |date=February 22, 1990 |title=Smith To Purchase Atlanta Raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-to-purchase/145046718/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427032607/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-to-purchase/145046718/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-to-purchase/145046739/ 3B] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=February 22, 1990 |title=Charlotte negotiating to purchase AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-charlotte-negot/145046772/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224914/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-charlotte-negot/145046772/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=F3 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Although the facility was expected to have been sold within the month, by the next day, both men denied that the sale had gone through; Smith reported delays in the sale due to "small snags",{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tom |date=February 23, 1990 |title='Small Snags' Delaying Atlanta Track Sale |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-small-snags-del/145047000/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224921/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-small-snags-del/145047000/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=2E |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} and Nix outright denied a closed deal.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=February 23, 1990 |title=No movement on purchase of AIR track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-no-movement-on/145047018/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224924/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-no-movement-on/145047018/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=G9 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Four days later, Charlotte Observer writer Tom Higgins reported that a sale was imminent,{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tom |date=February 27, 1990 |title=Smith Closes In On Atlanta Speedway Deal |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-closes-in-o/145047043/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224923/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-closes-in-o/145047043/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=2B |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} which Nix again denied.{{Cite news |last=Mulhurn |first=Mike |date=March 1, 1990 |title=Atlanta Raceway Not Sold, Nix Says |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-atlanta-raceway-no/145047194/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224913/https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-atlanta-raceway-no/145047194/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=Winston-Salem Journal |pages=33 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In early March, Smith claimed that he was waiting for Nix to agree to the deal.{{Cite news |date=March 6, 1990 |title=NASCAR Notebook |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-nascar-notebook/145047503/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224922/https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-nascar-notebook/145047503/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=Winston-Salem Journal |pages=28 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Two months later, although his earlier offer stalled, Smith stated renewed hope at purchasing AIR.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=May 3, 1990 |title=Charlotte Motor Speedway owner 'positive' about purchasing AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-charlotte-motor/145047596/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224918/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-charlotte-motor/145047596/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=G9 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} After another two months passed, AIR released a press statement that declared that Smith's second offer was most likely going to be accepted by AIR's directors.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=July 14, 1990 |title=Charlotte chairman planning to buy AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-charlotte-chair/145048045/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224912/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-charlotte-chair/145048045/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=F6 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} By mid-October, Winston-Salem Journal writer Mike Mulhurn wrote that Smith had begun planning his first promotions at the track, unofficially confirming his purchase.{{Cite news |last=Mulhurn |first=Mike |date=October 14, 1990 |title=Racing Notebook |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-racing-notebook/145048171/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224920/https://www.newspapers.com/article/winston-salem-journal-racing-notebook/145048171/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=Winston-Salem Journal |pages=D9 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

Smith's purchase was officially confirmed on October 24, paying $19.8 million for the facility. Bob Marcum, the manager at the Speedway Club at Charlotte Motor Speedway, was appointed as general manager.{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tom |date=October 24, 1990 |title=Smith Buys Atlanta Raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-buys-atlant/127875635/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230709021458/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-buys-atlant/127875635/ |archive-date=July 9, 2023 |access-date=July 8, 2023 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-smith-buys-atlant/127875657/ 2C] |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} With the purchase, Smith announced a plan that sought to invest $75 million worth of renovations to the track.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=October 24, 1990 |title=New owner of AIR plans $75 million in improvements |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-new-owner-of-air-pla/145048269/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224928/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-new-owner-of-air-pla/145048269/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=C3 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The facility was also renamed to Atlanta Motor Speedway.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=October 28, 1990 |title=It's officially AMS, not AIR, says speedway's new owner |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-its-officially/145048353/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224929/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-its-officially/145048353/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=E20 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Within the first year of Smith's ownership, he announced the construction of a new 21,000-seat grandstand{{Cite news |last=Minter |first=Rick |date=June 18, 1991 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway to add 21,000 seats in time for Hardee's 500 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145052393/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224926/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145052393/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=B3 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} along with traffic flow improvements, which had been a major issue with the facility since the track's inception.{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tom |date=November 12, 1991 |title=Improvements at Atlanta come to pass |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-improvements-at-a/145052806/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409224915/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-improvements-at-a/145052806/ |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=2B |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The improvements were completed by November 1991.{{Cite news |last=Ingram |first=Jonathan |date=November 10, 1991 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway hopes changes impress fans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145052405/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427032607/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145052405/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=F6 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} A month later, he announced the construction of a {{Convert|2.5|mi|km}} road course layout that utilized both the oval and specialized infield portions, creating a "roval";{{Cite news |last=Ingram |first=Jonathan |date=December 8, 1991 |title=Lanier Raceway owner downplays rumors of sale |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lanier-raceway/145093917/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410043938/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lanier-raceway/145093917/ |archive-date=April 10, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=E23 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} the road course held its first races in September 1992.{{Cite news |last=Thompson |first=Chuck |date=September 25, 1992 |title=Atlanta Speedway adds Can-Am race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-speedway-add/145094318/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410043940/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-speedway-add/145094318/ |archive-date=April 10, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Macon Telegraph |pages=6C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} That same year, Marcum resigned from his position, with vice president of events at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Ed Clark, replacing him.{{Cite news |last=Ingram |first=Jonathan |date=July 16, 1992 |title=Clark appointed GM at Atlanta Speedway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-clark-appointed-gm-a/145094509/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410043938/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-clark-appointed-gm-a/145094509/ |archive-date=April 10, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=F5 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In 1993, Clark announced a three-year plan to expand capacity to 180,000. Along with the announcement, plans for a new condominium complex, totaling 112 units, were made.{{Cite news |last=Ingram |first=Jonathan |date=January 17, 1993 |title=Skins' Rypien forms race team |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-skins-rypien-forms/145094756/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024226/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-skins-rypien-forms/145094756/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=F2 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Groundbreaking on the complex, named Tara Place, started on June 1,{{Cite news |last=Salter |first=Sallye |date=May 23, 1993 |title=Trackside condos soon to be started |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-trackside-condos-soo/145094794/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024545/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-trackside-condos-soo/145094794/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=H2 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Lundy |first=David |date=June 3, 1993 |title=Racing fans eyeing condos at speedway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-racing-fans-eye/145105899/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=I1 |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} and although it saw initial poor sales,{{Cite news |last=King |first=Jim |date=June 1, 1993 |title=AMS condominiums a tough sell so far |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ams-condominiums-a-t/145094813/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=E1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ams-condominiums-a-t/145094821/ E8] |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} the $25 million facility partially opened by March 1994.{{Cite news |last=Kimes |first=Kent |date=March 31, 1994 |title=Speedway clubhouse keeps condo project on track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-speedway-clubho/145106125/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=JI8 |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}}

== 1997 repave ==

Within 1994, Clark announced further renovations that were scheduled to be completed by 2000. Among said renovations were the addition of 68,000 seats, expansion of luxury boxes, and the reconfiguration of the track to become a quad-oval.{{Cite news |last=Kimes |first=Kent |date=February 25, 1994 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway to add 68,000 seats |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145106135/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=C1 |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} Tara Place was fully completed in November of that year, with 32 of the 46 condos being sold.{{Cite news |last=Kime |first=Kent |date=November 25, 1994 |title=Life by the fast lane |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-life-by-the-fas/145106959/ |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=F1 |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} In August 1995, a new grandstand was constructed, adding 21,000 permanent seats.{{Cite news |last=Villiers |first=Kelly |date=August 11, 1995 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway adds 21,000 more seats |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-motor-speedw/145107455/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024553/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-motor-speedw/145107455/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 10, 2024 |work=The Macon Telegraph |pages=4C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The reconfiguration started a year and a half later, turning the track from a {{Convert|1.52|mi|km}} true oval into a {{Convert|1.54|mi|km}} quad-oval. The decision at the time drew criticism from drivers, including Dale Earnhardt, John Andretti, and Johnny Benson Jr.{{Cite news |last=Levine |first=Al |date=March 9, 1997 |title=Drivers bidding farewell to 'Big Paper Clip' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-drivers-bidding-fare/145144506/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024913/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-drivers-bidding-fare/145144506/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=F2 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The renovation itself cost $30 million and added 37,000 seats, a {{Convert|1/4|mi|km}} oval for legends car racing within the track's frontstretch, 44 luxury suites, and upgraded garages.{{Cite news |last=McCollister |first=Tom |date=August 8, 1996 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway to undergo renovations |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145108439/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024956/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-atlanta-motor-speedw/145108439/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=C6 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Conner |first=Christi |date=May 1, 1997 |title=Speedway gets 37-year overhaul |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-speedway-gets-3/145144591/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024902/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-speedway-gets-3/145144591/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=JI3 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The first tire tests on the new surface were run in September by Bill Elliott,{{Cite news |last=Thompson |first=Chuck |date=September 11, 1997 |title=Elliott takes 1st laps on new Atlanta track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-elliott-takes-1st-la/145145166/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024915/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-elliott-takes-1st-la/145145166/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Macon Telegraph |pages=3C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} and it held its first races in November.

File:Cindy damage at Atlanta Motor Speedway.jpg in 2005.]]

In July 2005, a F2 tornado caused by the remnants of Hurricane Cindy hit the facility, causing an estimated $40 million in damage to the facility's grandstands, condominium complex, and other amenities.{{Cite news |last=Minter |first=Rick |date=July 8, 2005 |title=What a wreck |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-what-a-wreck-p/145203787/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024942/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-what-a-wreck-p/145203787/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=E1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-what-a-wreck-p/145203800/ E10] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The racing surface, however, was not affected,{{Cite news |last=Minter |first=Rick |date=July 28, 2005 |title=Helton assures track is ready |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-helton-assures/145215372/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024935/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-helton-assures/145215372/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=E2 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} and cars were able to test on the facility in early August.{{Cite news |last=Minter |first=Rick |date=August 3, 2005 |title=Ford Fusion passes debut test at AMS |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-ford-fusion-pas/145215414/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427024916/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-ford-fusion-pas/145215414/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=D9 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The next year, developers demolished the backstretch Weaver Grandstands, converting it to a motorhome parking lot. To replace it, developers built a new portion of grandstands on the frontstretch, adding new suites on top of the newly built Winners Grandstand.{{Cite news |last=Minter |first=Rick |date=July 8, 2006 |title=They knew they were on the right track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-they-knew-they/145198509/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427034447/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-they-knew-they/145198509/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-they-knew-they/145198534/ D6] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} With the addition, seating was expanded to 113,000.{{Cite news |date=September 21, 2006 |title=Raceway in Hampton to sport some upgrades |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-raceway-in-hamp/145201089/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427034445/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-raceway-in-hamp/145201089/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=JI6 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Four years later, the track lost one of its NASCAR Cup Series race weekends to Kentucky Speedway, another track that Bruton Smith owned.{{Cite web |last=Demmons |first=Doug |date=August 5, 2010 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway loses one of its Sprint Cup races |url=https://www.al.com/sports/2010/08/atlanta_motor_speedway_loses_o.html |url-status=live |access-date=April 11, 2024 |website=AL.com |language=en |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427034440/https://www.al.com/sports/2010/08/atlanta_motor_speedway_loses_o.html }} Throughout the 2010s, AMS made gradual decreases to capacity; by 2015, capacity decreased to 71,000 according to NBC Sports. Further decreases were made in early 2018, when an unspecified number of seats were torn down in order to construct a hospitality area.{{Cite news |last=Stafford |first=Leon |date=January 20, 2018 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway using new bar to entice social racing fans |url=https://www.ajc.com/news/local-govt--politics/atlanta-motor-speedway-using-new-bar-entice-social-racing-fans/uPvdbVCcX4TfjkRJF9KqjO/ |url-status=live |access-date=2024-04-10 |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English |issn=1539-7459 |archive-date=March 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200305012934/https://www.ajc.com/news/local-govt--politics/atlanta-motor-speedway-using-new-bar-entice-social-racing-fans/uPvdbVCcX4TfjkRJF9KqjO/ }} Later that year, Clark stepped down from his position as general manager, handing it over to assistant general manager Brandon Hutchison.{{Cite web |last=Southers |first=Tim |date=November 28, 2018 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway makes management changes |url=https://us.motorsport.com/nascar-cup/news/atlanta-motor-speedway-management-changes/4305928/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 10, 2024 |website=Motorsport.com |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023210110/https://us.motorsport.com/nascar-cup/news/atlanta-motor-speedway-management-changes/4305928/ }}

= Entertainment complex proposal, 2021 repave =

file:Atlanta_Motor_Speedway.png

In late 2019, Clark announced a proposal to build a $1 billion entertainment complex if the state of Georgia legalized gambling.{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Dave |date=October 16, 2019 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway chief pitches $1B casino resort plan |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2019/10/16/atlanta-motor-speedway-chief-pitches-casino-resort.html |url-status=live |access-date=March 27, 2024 |website=Atlanta Business Journals |archive-date=January 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124050828/https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2019/10/16/atlanta-motor-speedway-chief-pitches-casino-resort.html }} A hearing in the Georgia House of Representatives was scheduled in January 2020,{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2020 |title=Casino gambling plans at Atlanta Motor Speedway to attract Georgia lawmakers |url=https://www.41nbc.com/344177-2/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |website=WMGT-TV |language=en-US |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://www.41nbc.com/344177-2/ }} with the Henry County Board of Commissioners later voting in favor a statement of approval for a statewide referendum on the issue on the 21st.{{Cite news |last=Roark |first=Monroe |date=February 5, 2020 |title=Henry County commissioners approve gambling resolution |url=https://www.ajc.com/news/local/henry-county-commissioners-approve-gambling-resolution/ZDtptQ9xJuLwCih6a5qG0N/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English |issn=1539-7459 |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://www.ajc.com/news/local/henry-county-commissioners-approve-gambling-resolution/ZDtptQ9xJuLwCih6a5qG0N/ }} However, the bill, now titled Senate Resolution 841, was viewed as a long shot; SR 841 needed a two-thirds majority in both houses of the Georgia General Assembly along with a popular vote, with Georgia historically holding a hardline stance on anti-gambling due to religious influence.{{Cite news |last=O'Connor |first=Devin |date=June 23, 2020 |title=Georgia Voters Could Face Casino Ballot Referendum in November |url=https://www.casino.org/news/georgia-voters-could-face-casino-ballot-referendum-in-november/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 29, 2024 |website=Casino.org |language=en-US |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://www.casino.org/news/georgia-voters-could-face-casino-ballot-referendum-in-november/ }} In March 2021, the proposal saw revived support when Georgia saw increased support for online sports betting, with Clark now campaigning to legalize gambling.{{Cite web |last=Jackson |first=Eric |date=March 9, 2021 |title=$1 billion casino resort at Atlanta Motor Speedway still on the table: 'We're still alive' |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2021/03/09/resort-georgia-sports-betting-speedway-atlanta.html |url-status=live |access-date=March 29, 2024 |website=Atlanta Business Journals |archive-date=March 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309204329/https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2021/03/09/resort-georgia-sports-betting-speedway-atlanta.html }} However, by 2022, although Hutchison and Clark maintained they were still campaigning for the legalization of gambling and were still in support of building the complex, support for it essentially stagnated.{{Cite web |last=Jordan |first=Jerry |date=March 19, 2022 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway Motoring Towards Entertainment and Gaming Destination |url=https://kickinthetires.net/nascar/atlanta-motor-speedway-motoring-towards-entertainment-and-gaming-destination/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |website=Kickin' the Tires |language=en-US |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://kickinthetires.net/nascar/atlanta-motor-speedway-motoring-towards-entertainment-and-gaming-destination/ }}

Clark announced his retirement from his position of president in December 2019{{Cite news |date=December 2, 2019 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway's Ed Clark to retire after next race |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/racing/atlanta-motor-speedway-clark-retire-after-next-race/vkP1WLN5dU1E18A9W69ehK/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English |issn=1539-7459 |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://www.ajc.com/sports/racing/atlanta-motor-speedway-clark-retire-after-next-race/vkP1WLN5dU1E18A9W69ehK/ }} which took effect in March 2020, ending a 27-year reign and giving complete control to Hutchison.{{Cite news |last=Hummer |first=Steve |date=March 14, 2020 |title=Ed Clark's Atlanta speedway reign ends far more quietly than it began |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/clark-atlanta-speedway-reign-ends-far-more-quietly-than-began/UDt2rzDZuuBmdIH2DDrSlJ/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English |issn=1539-7459 |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055927/https://www.ajc.com/sports/clark-atlanta-speedway-reign-ends-far-more-quietly-than-began/UDt2rzDZuuBmdIH2DDrSlJ/ }} After Clark's retirement, SMI CEO Marcus Smith hinted an upcoming repave and possible reconfiguration back to the original oval configuration if the entertainment complex proposal passed.{{Cite web |last=Ryan |first=Nate |date=October 2, 2020 |title=With casino still a hope, Atlanta track headed for a repave and 'reprofiling' |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/nascar-marcus-smith-atlanta-motor-speedway-repave-reprofiling-casino |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=January 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110225249/https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/nascar-marcus-smith-atlanta-motor-speedway-repave-reprofiling-casino }} On July 6, 2021, a repave and subsequent reconfiguration was officially announced; the first repave since 1997. Banking was increased in the turns by four degrees to a total of 28 degrees, and the racing surface was narrowed to produce a style of racing similar to superspeedway pack racing. The decision was met with criticism from drivers such as Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, and Kyle Busch; particularly on accusations of a lack of driver input from SMI leadership.{{Cite web |last=Weaver |first=Matt |date=July 9, 2021 |title=NASCAR Drivers Lament Lack Of Input In Decision To Reconfigure Atlanta |url=https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a36983394/nascar-drivers-lament-lack-of-input-in-decision-to-reconfigure-atlanta/ |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=Autoweek |archive-date=January 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112165347/https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a36983394/nascar-drivers-lament-lack-of-input-in-decision-to-reconfigure-atlanta/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Fenwick |first=Adam |date=July 11, 2021 |title=Drivers Share Frustration Amid Atlanta Reprofile Plans |url=https://www.speedsport.com/nascar/nascar-cup-series/drivers-share-frustration-amid-atlanta-reprofile-plans/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |website=Speed Sport |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://www.speedsport.com/nascar/nascar-cup-series/drivers-share-frustration-amid-atlanta-reprofile-plans/ }} The repave was completed in late December,{{Cite web |last=Walters |first=Shane |date=December 23, 2021 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway reconfiguration complete (Video) |url=https://racingnews.co/2021/12/23/atlanta-motor-speedway-reconfiguration-complete-video/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 29, 2024 |website=Racing News |language=en-US |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://racingnews.co/2021/12/23/atlanta-motor-speedway-reconfiguration-complete-video/ }} and the first tire tests took place the next month.{{Cite web |last=Gibson |first=Nick |date=January 6, 2022 |title=Nascar drivers test on newly renovated Atlanta Motor Speedway for first time |url=https://wgxa.tv/news/state-news/nascar-drivers-test-on-newly-renovated-atlanta-motor-speedway-for-first-time |url-status=live |access-date=March 28, 2024 |website=WGXA-TV |archive-date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329055926/https://wgxa.tv/news/state-news/nascar-drivers-test-on-newly-renovated-atlanta-motor-speedway-for-first-time }}

On June 3, 2025, SMI announced the track's renaming to EchoPark Speedway under a new seven-year sponsorship deal with the Smith family-owned business, EchoPark. The renaming ended a 35-year stint under the Atlanta Motor Speedway name.{{Cite web |last=Spanberg |first=Erik |date=June 3, 2025 |title=NASCAR track in Atlanta gets new name with Charlotte ties |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2025/06/03/sonic-automotive-nascar-echopark-atlanta-track.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250603171510/https://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2025/06/03/sonic-automotive-nascar-echopark-atlanta-track.html |archive-date=June 3, 2025 |access-date=June 3, 2025 |website=Charlotte Business Journals}}

Events

= Racing =

== NASCAR ==

{{See also|Ambetter Health 400|Quaker State 400|NASCAR Xfinity Series at Atlanta#Spring race|NASCAR Xfinity Series at Atlanta#Summer race|Fr8 208|label 3=Bennett Transportation & Logistics 250|label 4=Focused Health 250}}

The track hosts two annual NASCAR weekends, highlighted by NASCAR Cup Series races known as the Ambetter Health 400 and the Quaker State 400.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 14, 1960 |title=AIR Sets July 31 Date; Lester Named President |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-sets-july-31-dat/144244581/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234917/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-sets-july-31-dat/144244581/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=32, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-sets-july-31-dat/144268262/ 36] |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}}{{Cite web |last=Demmons |first=Doug |date=August 5, 2010 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway loses one of its Sprint Cup races |url=https://www.al.com/sports/2010/08/atlanta_motor_speedway_loses_o.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427034440/https://www.al.com/sports/2010/08/atlanta_motor_speedway_loses_o.html |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |website=AL.com |language=en}} The track also hosts two second-tier NASCAR Xfinity Series races{{cite web |date=September 29, 2021 |title=Back to the Future: New venues, return of familiar locations highlight 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series slates |url=https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2021/09/29/back-to-the-future-new-venues-return-of-familiar-locations-highlight-2022-nascar-xfinity-series-nascar-camping-world-truck-series-slates/ |access-date=May 27, 2022 |website=NASCAR}} with the Bennett Transportation & Logistics 250 and the Focused Health 250 alongside one third-tier NASCAR Truck Series race known the Fr8 208 as support races for the Cup Series.

In 1986, the facility hosted a one-off iteration of The Winston (now known as the NASCAR All-Star Race),{{Cite news |last=McCollister |first=Tom |date=May 12, 1986 |title=Elliott climbs back on top in Winston |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-elliott-climbs/145095016/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410043939/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-elliott-climbs/145095016/ |archive-date=April 10, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-elliott-climbs/145095027/ 8D] |via=Newspapers.com}} {{Open access}} which was originally intended to rotate among different venues each year. However, due to lackluster attendance, the race was moved to Charlotte Motor Speedway, where it remained its permanent home until 2020.{{Cite web |last=Damcott |first=Anthony |date=March 15, 2023 |title=That One Time the All-Star Race Was Held at Atlanta |url=https://frontstretch.com/2023/03/14/only-yesterday-that-one-time-the-all-star-race-was-held-at-atlanta/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427034520/https://frontstretch.com/2023/03/14/only-yesterday-that-one-time-the-all-star-race-was-held-at-atlanta/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 9, 2024 |website=Frontstretch |language=en-US}}

== IndyCar==

In January 1961, the track confirmed dates for a USAC-sanctioned race in July with Indianapolis-style cars.{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=January 19, 1961 |title=AIR Slates Race July 16 Of True Indianapolis Cars |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-slates-race-july/144660449/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403144357/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-slates-race-july/144660449/ |archive-date=April 3, 2024 |access-date=April 2, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=38, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-slates-race-july/144660458/ 39] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} However, after a frightened Eddie Sachs performed tire tests that saw average lap speeds over {{Convert|150|mph|km/h}},{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=June 28, 1961 |title=Sachs Turns AIR in 152.284, Shoots Today for Even 155 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-sachs-turns-air-in-1/144660922/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403144400/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-sachs-turns-air-in-1/144660922/ |archive-date=April 3, 2024 |access-date=April 2, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=40 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} USAC decided to cancel the race,{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 1, 1961 |title=USAC Cancels 250-Miler, NASCAR To Run in Sub |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-usac-cancels-25/144660968/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403144403/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-usac-cancels-25/144660968/ |archive-date=April 3, 2024 |access-date=April 2, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=9 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} with Henry Banks claiming that modifications to the track to accommodate USAC cars had not been made and that asphalt surface readings were at unsafe temperatures; up to {{Convert|140|F|C}}. Track president at the time, Nelson Weaver, later questioned the authenticity of Sachs' fears and put out a statement that criticized USAC officials.{{Cite news |last=Asher |first=Gene |date=July 1, 1961 |title=Banks: 'Criminal Act To Permit A.I.R. Race' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-banks-criminal-act/144661163/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403144402/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-banks-criminal-act/144661163/ |archive-date=April 3, 2024 |access-date=April 2, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=6, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-banks-criminal-act/144661173/ 7] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} Four years later, Weaver began renewed talks with USAC to host a race;{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=January 1, 1965 |title=Meet Decides USAC's Fate |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-meet-decides-us/145232033/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427025342/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-meet-decides-us/145232033/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=4D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} this time, USAC awarded a race weekend in September.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=April 8, 1965 |title=A.I.R. To Host USAC in August |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-to-host-usac/145232105/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427025343/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-to-host-usac/145232105/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=83 |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The race ran again the next year.{{Cite news |last=Hayes |first=Hal |date=June 27, 1965 |title=Andretti Flashes to AIR Victory |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-andretti-flashe/145232925/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427025348/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-andretti-flashe/145232925/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=31, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-andretti-flashe/145232947/ 33] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In the 1970s and 1980s, Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) also raced at the facility.{{Cite news |last=Hinton |first=Ed |date=April 22, 1979 |title=Atlanta Shapes Up As CART Indy 500 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlanta-shapes/145233534/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427025342/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlanta-shapes/145233534/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-atlanta-shapes/145233549/ 16D] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Stinson |first=Thomas M. |date=April 18, 1983 |title=Johncock is Dixie 200 champion |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-johncock-is-dix/145233609/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427025342/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-johncock-is-dix/145233609/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 12, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=6D |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}}

In 1997, the Indy Racing League (IRL) announced plans to race a {{Convert|500|km|mi}} race at the facility, starting in 1998.{{Cite news |last=Thompson |first=Chuck |date=August 12, 1997 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway will add IRL race in '98 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-motor-speedw/145145183/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427025337/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-motor-speedw/145145183/ |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |access-date=April 11, 2024 |work=The Macon Telegraph |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-macon-telegraph-atlanta-motor-speedw/145145201/ 4C] |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} The race lasted for four years; the race was removed from the IRL schedule by the 2002 season.{{Cite web |date=July 1, 2001 |title=Michigan, Nazareth join '02 IRL schedule |url=https://www.autosport.com/indycar/news/michigan-nazareth-join-02-irl-schedule-4998193/4998193/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 11, 2024 |website=Autosport |language=en |archive-date=January 27, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230127005137/https://www.autosport.com/indycar/news/michigan-nazareth-join-02-irl-schedule-4998193/4998193/ }}

= Other events and uses =

The facility on numerous occasions has been used as an evacuee center in the event of hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma in 2017,{{cite web |date=September 6, 2017 |title=Talladega Superspeedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway offer free campground space for Irma evacuees |url=http://whnt.com/2017/09/06/atlanta-motor-speedway-offers-free-campground-space-for-irma-evacuees/ |url-status=live |access-date=September 8, 2017 |website=WHNT-TV |archive-date=September 8, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170908201116/http://whnt.com/2017/09/06/atlanta-motor-speedway-offers-free-campground-space-for-irma-evacuees/ }} Hurricane Florence{{cite web |date=September 11, 2018 |title=Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway open campgrounds to Florence evacuees |url=https://www.13newsnow.com/article/weather/charlotte-motor-speedway-atlanta-motor-speedway-open-campgrounds-to-florence-evacuees/291-593007264 |url-status=live |access-date=September 11, 2018 |website=WVEC-TV |archive-date=September 11, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911195151/https://www.13newsnow.com/article/weather/charlotte-motor-speedway-atlanta-motor-speedway-open-campgrounds-to-florence-evacuees/291-593007264 }} and Hurricane Michael in 2018,{{cite web |last=Mines |first=Adam |date=October 9, 2018 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway opening camping facilities for Hurricane Michael evacuees |url=https://wgxa.tv/news/local/atlanta-motor-speedway-opening-camping-facilities-to-evacuees-ahead-of-hurricane-michael |url-status=live |access-date=August 30, 2019 |website=WGXA-TV |archive-date=August 30, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830172438/https://wgxa.tv/news/local/atlanta-motor-speedway-opening-camping-facilities-to-evacuees-ahead-of-hurricane-michael }} Hurricane Dorian in 2019,{{Cite web |date=August 29, 2019 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway opens free camping facilities to evacuees |url=https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/hurricane-dorian-august-2019/h_6d4ab66bd8a5a9194df10046091e2216 |url-status=live |access-date=April 3, 2024 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=April 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403144357/https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/hurricane-dorian-august-2019/h_6d4ab66bd8a5a9194df10046091e2216 }} Hurricane Ian in 2022,{{cite news |date=September 27, 2022 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway opens campgrounds to those fleeing Hurricane Ian |url=https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/atlanta-motor-speedway-hurricane-ian-refugees |url-status=live |access-date=September 28, 2022 |work=WAGA-TV |archive-date=September 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220928004037/https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/atlanta-motor-speedway-hurricane-ian-refugees }} and Hurricane Idalia in 2023.{{cite news |date=August 29, 2023 |title=Atlanta Motor Speedway opening gates for Hurricane Idalia evacuees |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/henry-county/atlanta-motor-speedway-opening-gates-hurricane-idalia-evacuees/LJOMKNYH2ZA7NDZEOZ7KH2A7L4/ |url-status=live |access-date=August 29, 2023 |work=WSB-TV |archive-date=August 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230830013820/https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/henry-county/atlanta-motor-speedway-opening-gates-hurricane-idalia-evacuees/LJOMKNYH2ZA7NDZEOZ7KH2A7L4/ }}

In 2021, the Atlanta Marathon was moved to the speedway and its perimeter roads as a result of COVID-19 restrictions in Fulton County.{{Cite web |last=Westerholm |first=Tom |date=February 28, 2021 |title=Cambridge resident, Olympian Molly Seidel wins Atlanta Half Marathon |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/sports-news/2021/02/28/molly-seidel-atlanta-half-marathon-cambridge/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 3, 2021 |website=Boston.com |language=en-US |archive-date=April 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417233348/https://www.boston.com/sports/sports-news/2021/02/28/molly-seidel-atlanta-half-marathon-cambridge }} That same year, America's Got Talent: Extreme filmed its first season at the facility.{{Cite web |last=Ho |first=Rodney |date=September 17, 2021 |title='America's Got Talent Extreme' shooting at Atlanta Motor Speedway Sept. 27-Oct. 20 |url=https://www.ajc.com/life/radiotvtalk-blog/americas-got-talent-extreme-shooting-at-atlanta-motor-speedway-sept-27-oct-20/SMF7F6R4OZCOJLDAB2X2HNCR4U/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 4, 2024 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English |archive-date=November 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118184359/https://www.ajc.com/life/radiotvtalk-blog/americas-got-talent-extreme-shooting-at-atlanta-motor-speedway-sept-27-oct-20/SMF7F6R4OZCOJLDAB2X2HNCR4U/ }}

== Movie production ==

The facility has been used in the production of numerous films. It was first used for movie production in 1962 movie Thundering Wheels, with driver Jack Smith being featured in the movie.{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Bill |date=October 25, 1962 |title=Frank, Walters Split for the '400' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-frank-walters-split/144795211/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 4, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=73 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055514/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-frank-walters-split/144795211/ }} {{Open access}} Since, the facility has been used for the 1980 film Smokey and the Bandit II, the 1982 Daniel Petrie-directed Six Pack,{{Cite news |last=Hinton |first=Ed |date=March 14, 1982 |title=Movie 'role' boosts prize by $50,000 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-movie-role-boosts/144795664/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055512/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-movie-role-boosts/144795664/ |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |access-date=April 4, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Journal |pages=21C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} and the 1983 Hal Needham-directed Stroker Ace.{{Cite news |last=Cain |first=Scott |date=July 4, 1983 |title='Stroker' giggles with pecking fun |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-stroker-giggl/144795767/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055515/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-stroker-giggl/144795767/ |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |access-date=April 4, 2024 |work=The Atlanta Constitution |pages=4C |via=Newspapers.com }} {{Open access}} In recent years, the 2017 film Logan Lucky used the facility as a stand-in for the Charlotte Motor Speedway.{{Cite news |last=Janes |first=Théoden |date=August 13, 2017 |title=The true story behind the fictional movie about the Charlotte Motor Speedway heist |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-the-true-story-be/140216718/ |access-date=February 3, 2024 |work=The Charlotte Observer |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-the-true-story-be/140216734/ 2C] |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=February 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204061759/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-the-true-story-be/140216718/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Brett |first=Jennifer |date=August 18, 2017 |title=What NASCAR has to say about Atlanta-filmed "Logan Lucky" |url=https://www.ajc.com/blog/buzz/what-nascar-has-say-about-atlanta-filmed-logan-lucky/mzy06JqHIxua3yDAMSPiaJ/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 5, 2024 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055512/https://www.ajc.com/blog/buzz/what-nascar-has-say-about-atlanta-filmed-logan-lucky/mzy06JqHIxua3yDAMSPiaJ/ }}

Lap records

As of February 2025, the fastest official race lap records at the Atlanta Motor Speedway are listed as:

colspan=5 \| Quad Oval with Reconfigured Banking: 2.478 km (2022–present){{cite web \|title=Atlanta Motor Speedway - Racing Circuits \|url=https://www.racingcircuits.info/north-america/usa/atlanta-motor-speedway.html \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230212184935/https://www.racingcircuits.info/north-america/usa/atlanta-motor-speedway.html \|website=RacingCircuits.info \|archive-date=12 February 2023 \|access-date=12 February 2023 \|url-status=live}}{{cite web \|title=Atlanta - Motor Sport Magazine \|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/circuits/atlanta/ \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713112555/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/database/circuits/atlanta/ \|website=Motor Sport Magazine \|archive-date=13 July 2022 \|access-date=26 February 2024 \|url-status=live}}
class="wikitable" !Category!!Time!!Driver!!Vehicle!!Event
NASCAR Cup	0:29.361{{cite web \|title=2024 Ambetter Health 400 Race Statistics \|url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-cup-series/2024/ambetter-health-400/stats \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226172357/https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-cup-series/2024/ambetter-health-400/stats \|date=25 February 2024 \|archive-date=26 February 2024 \|access-date=26 February 2024 \|url-status=live}}	Josh Berry	Ford Mustang GT	2024 Ambetter Health 400
NASCAR Truck	0:30.097{{cite web \|title=NASCAR Truck 2022 Atlanta - Race Fastest Laps \|url=https://www.motorsport.com/nascar-truck/results/2022/atlanta-545402/?st=FL \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230920031307/https://www.motorsport.com/nascar-truck/results/2022/atlanta-545402/?st=FL \|date=19 March 2022 \|archive-date=20 September 2023 \|access-date=16 July 2022 \|url-status=live}}	Derek Kraus	Chevrolet Silverado	2022 Fr8 208
NASCAR Xfinity	0:30.402{{cite web \|title=NASCAR Xfinity 2025 Atlanta 1 Race Statistics \|url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-xfinity-series/2025/bennett-transportation-and-logistics-250/stats \|date=22 February 2025 \|access-date=23 February 2025}}	Christian Eckes	Chevrolet Camaro ZL1	2025 Bennett Transportation & Logistics 250
colspan=5 \| Quad Oval: 2.478 km (1997–2021)
Indy Racing League	0:24.732	Billy Boat	Dallara IR-7	1998 Atlanta 500 Classic
NASCAR Cup	0:30.085{{cite web \|title=2017 Atlanta NASCAR Race - Fastest Laps \|url=https://www.motorsport.com/nascar-cup/results/2017/atlanta-158004/?st=FL \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316215207/https://www.motorsport.com/nascar-cup/results/2017/atlanta-158004/?st=FL \|date=5 March 2017 \|archive-date=16 March 2024 \|access-date=17 March 2024 \|url-status=live}}	Kyle Larson	Chevrolet SS NASCAR	2017 Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500
NASCAR Xfinity	0:30.854{{cite web \|title=2021 EchoPark 250 Race Statistics \|url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-xfinity-series/2021/echopark-250/stats \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316215207/https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-xfinity-series/2021/echopark-250/stats \|date=20 March 2021 \|archive-date=16 March 2024 \|access-date=17 March 2024 \|url-status=live}}	Martin Truex Jr.	Toyota GR Supra NASCAR	2021 EchoPark 250
NASCAR Truck	0:30.861{{cite web \|title=2021 Fr8Auctions 200 Race Statistics \|url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-craftsman-truck-series/2021/fr8auctions-200/stats \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316215208/https://motorsportstats.com/results/nascar-craftsman-truck-series/2021/fr8auctions-200/stats \|date=20 March 2021 \|archive-date=16 March 2024 \|access-date=17 March 2024 \|url-status=live}}	Kyle Busch	Toyota Tundra NASCAR	2021 Fr8Auctions 200
colspan=5 \| Road Course: 4.059 km (1992–1996)
IMSA GTP	1:13.514{{cite web \|title=Atlanta IMSA GTP 1993 \|url=https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Atlanta-1993-04-18.html \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713112555/https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Atlanta-1993-04-18.html \|date=18 April 1993 \|archive-date=13 July 2022 \|access-date=13 July 2022 \|url-status=live}}	Juan Manuel Fangio II	Eagle Mk III	1993 Toyota Grand Prix of Atlanta
IMSA GTP Lights	1:21.979	Parker Johnstone	Spice SE90P	1993 Toyota Grand Prix of Atlanta
WSC	1:24.278	François Migault	Kudzu DG-2	1993 Toyota Grand Prix of Atlanta
IMSA Supercar	1:36.008{{cite web \|title=IMSA Supercar Atlanta 1993 \|url=https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Atlanta-1993-04-18s.html \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713112558/https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Atlanta-1993-04-18s.html \|date=18 April 1993 \|archive-date=13 July 2022 \|access-date=13 July 2022 \|url-status=live}}	Doc Bundy	Lotus Esprit X180R	1993 Toyota Grand Prix of Atlanta

References

External links

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