Richmond Raceway

Track Info

Location	Richmond, Virginia
Type	D-Shaped Short Track
Length	0.75 miles (1.207 km)
Banking	14 degrees in turns, 8 degrees on frontstretch, 2 degrees on backstretch
Surface	Asphalt
Capacity	~60,000
Opened	1946

Track Characteristics

Richmond Raceway is a three-quarter-mile D-shaped oval that sits in a unique space between a true short track and an intermediate speedway. The asymmetric shape means the turns are not identical - the D shape creates a longer, more sweeping Turns 1-2 and tighter Turns 3-4. This asymmetry forces drivers to adapt their driving style throughout each lap and creates passing opportunities at both ends of the track.

Night racing is Richmond's signature. The spring and fall races have traditionally been run under the lights, and the Saturday night atmosphere at Richmond is among the best in NASCAR. The lighting gives the track a special ambiance, and the cooler nighttime temperatures change the way the asphalt grips, often producing better racing than daytime conditions would.

Tire management is critical at Richmond. The asphalt surface chews up tires over long runs, and the driver who can maintain speed while saving their tires through the turns tends to come out on top. Pit strategy also plays a major role, as the track is long enough that track position matters but short enough that fresher tires can overcome a deficit.

Getting There

Nearest Airport	Richmond International Airport (RIC) - approximately 10 miles east. Dulles International (IAD) is about 100 miles north.
Nearest City	Richmond, VA. The track is located on the State Fairgrounds Complex, just minutes from downtown.

Series That Race Here

• NASCAR Cup Series - Two races per year (spring and summer)
• NASCAR Xfinity Series
• NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

2026 NASCAR Event Info

Spring Race	Toyota Owners 400
Spring Date	April 12, 2026
Summer Race	Federated Auto Parts 400
Summer Date	August 9, 2026
TV	FOX (spring) / NBC (summer)

Track Records

Qualifying Record	Brad Keselowski - 129.983 mph (2014)
Race Record	Dale Jarrett - 109.047 mph (1997)

Notable Past Races

• 1991: Harry Gant won his fourth consecutive race at Richmond during his incredible September streak, earning the nickname "Mr. September."
• 2003: Ryan Newman won the final race at the old Richmond configuration before the track underwent major renovations.
• 2008: Clint Bowyer's controversial spin at Richmond set up Kyle Busch to clinch a playoff spot, sparking debate about intentional cautions that led to rule changes.
• 2013: The infamous "Spingate" scandal erupted when Michael Waltrip Racing was caught manipulating the race outcome. The fallout reshaped how NASCAR policed team orders.

Track Facts

• Richmond was originally a half-mile dirt track at the Virginia State Fairgrounds before being expanded to 0.75 miles and paved in 1988.
• The track has been part of the NASCAR schedule since 1953, making it one of the longest-running venues in the sport.
• Richmond's signature Saturday night races have earned it a reputation as one of the best atmospheres on the circuit.
• The surrounding complex has been redeveloped as the Richmond Raceway Complex, adding year-round event space and entertainment venues.

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