Legendary NASCAR driver Richard Petty visited Nashville this week for two reasons – his induction into the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway Hall of Fame and to advocate for the return of Cup Series racing to the historic short track.

The seven-time series champion and owner of a record 200 wins stated he would like to see the proposed $100 million renovation of the speedway, agreed upon between the city and Bristol Motor Speedway, approved by Metro Council. Petty believes bringing NASCAR’s top series back to the Nashville short track would be greatly appreciated by fans.

“I like that they’re having the All-Star Race at Wilkesboro and would like to see them keep moving it around,” Petty told the Tennessean, “They could come to Nashville for a year or two or whatever and I think it’d be great. I think the fans would really appreciate it.”

NASCAR last raced at Nashville Fairgrounds in 1984 but has remained immensely popular in the area. The agreement with Bristol would modernize the facilities while maintaining its historic charm.

Petty’s endorsement carries significant weight in the NASCAR world. As the greatest driver in stock car racing history, his support for returning to Nashville Fairgrounds will hopefully influence stakeholders to push the long-discussed renovation project forward.

Nashville has re-established itself as a major NASCAR market with the annual Cup race at Nashville Superspeedway. But hearing the roar of stock cars at the legendary short track again would be a dream come true for many fans. With “The King” now backing that vision, the momentum continues to build.