Speedway Motorsports Executive Chairman Bruton Smith, who built Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway into a one-of-a-kind world-renowned sports and entertainment destination passed away on June 22, 2022 at the age of 95. The following is a statement from the President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, Jerry Caldwell:

“It has been a true honor and privilege to have grown my entire career working for and being mentored by entrepreneur titans, Bruton Smith and his son, Marcus. Together they have created a family-like atmosphere at Speedway Motorsports, making today’s news of Bruton’s passing a sad day for all of us at Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway.

“The impact of Bruton’s contributions to the sports and entertainment world are too many to name, but his lasting legacy of building world-renowned destinations will stand the test of time. His contributions personally touched so many in the state of Tennessee throughout his businesses and philanthropic endeavors.

“His vision and passion for creating the most amazing experiences for our guests lives on today through his mantra of, ‘We work for the fans.’ We will continue to carry the torch he built and lit for us to the best of our abilities to honor and celebrate the legend we lost today.”

“While today is a sad day in the world of motorsports, it’s also a day to reflect on the incredible influence Bruton Smith had on the world of sports and entertainment,” said Sonoma Raceway EVP and General Manager Jill Gregory. “His focus on innovation set the gold standard for turning speedways into majestic sports facilities. His vision here in Sonoma was key in developing Sonoma Raceway into one of the most legendary and visited motorsports facilities in the world, and we will continue to work hard every day to continue the legacy that he has established.”

Smith built the Charlotte Motor Speedway in 1959, and in 1994, founded Speedway Motorsports. Today, it’s properties include Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway, Charlotte Motor Speedway & zMAX Dragway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway & Dragway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, Texas Motor Speedway, Dover Motor Speedway, Nashville Superspeedway, Kentucky Speedway and North Wilkesboro Speedway.

Smith also founded Sonic Automotive, a network of more than 100 retailers nationwide, in 1997.