HISTORY OF THE ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Opened in 1960, Atlanta Motor Speedway has long been a key fixture on the NASCAR calendar. Originally a 1.5-mile oval built on farmland just south of Atlanta in Hampton, Georgia, the track quickly became a fan favorite for its high speeds and competitive racing.

In 1997, the speedway underwent a major transformation. The track was reconfigured from an oval to a quad-oval layout, increasing the speed and intensity of racing. At the same time, the frontstretch and backstretch were swapped to accommodate the new design, giving the venue its now-signature shape and layout.

Over the decades, AMS has been the stage for many legendary NASCAR moments. From Dale Earnhardt’s photo-finish win in 2000 to Kevin Harvick’s emotional first victory just weeks after Earnhardt’s passing, the speedway has witnessed some of the sport’s most memorable milestones.

In 2021, Atlanta Motor Speedway underwent another major overhaul. The racing surface was repaved, and the banking increased to 28 degrees, transforming it into a superspeedway-style track while still maintaining its intermediate length. The change brought pack racing and tighter competition, shaking up the traditional racing format for fans and drivers alike.

Today, AMS is not just about stock car racing. It hosts everything from NASCAR and Legends races to music festivals, driving experiences, and year-round fan events. A blend of Southern charm and high-octane action, it continues to evolve as one of the most dynamic venues in American motorsports.