Few activities bring families and friends together like the thrill of racing and the sensation of hearing their favorite artists play music live. At this year’s Big Machine Music City Grand Prix presented by Gainbridge, attendees experienced it all: last-second passes to decide the race, incredible music, and the feel of adrenaline racing through their veins as marvels of engineering sprinted around the track 206 times. Below, we’ve written about the most unforgettable moments that made this weekend one for the history books.
Music:
Racing:
Next Year:
On Freedom Friday, Brantley Gilbert took the stage to play his new album “Tattoos” live for the first time. 118,000 people showed up, making it the largest album release party in the world. He played the full album, with Gary LeVox appearing for “God Isn’t Country”, a melodic masterpiece about times that have passed us by, and the small joys of life that we take for granted. Colt Ford joined Brantley for “Dirt Road Anthem”, taking the crowd back to an age of country music that many believe has passed us by.
Brantley also performed chart-topping hits like “Bottoms Up” and “One Hell of an Amen”, giving the crowd a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the evening before heading into the race weekend.
Since Rascal Flatts stopped touring for good in October of 2021, the opportunity to hear their greatest hits like “What Hurts the Most” and “Life is a Highway” went away with them, except for rare appearances by lead singer Gary LeVox. At this year’s grand prix, he serenaded the fans with the greatest hits of Rascal Flatts making for an unforgettable concert experience. As fans who grew up watching racing movies like “Cars” made their way to the Grand Prix with their own children, it created a particularly nostalgic moment that will not soon be forgotten.
On Sunday morning before the race kicked off, the American Idol finalist put the crowd in the right mood for the big race. He sang memorable hits like “Home” and gave an up close and personal concert experience to those lucky enough to see the show. Immediately following the performance, fans were greeted by Grand Marshall Diplo for driver introductions before heading to the stands to watch not one, but two American flags fly through the sky during our Nation’s anthem.
Many fans were initially skeptical of moving the race out of downtown but were quickly wowed at seeing some of the fastest cars in the world stacked in lines of three move at 200 mph just inches away from each other around the oval track. The Nashville Superspeedway’s grandstand allowed the entire track to be in full view, so each of the race’s most exciting moments were seen – not on a screen – but in person.
There were 653 on-track passes during the race this year, a feat only made possible by the oval track at the Nashville Superspeedway. For reference, through 2022, there were only 785 on-track passes in the entirety of Formula One’s 22 races, or an average of 35.68 overtakes per race. The NTT Indycar Series gives fans more speed, more passes, and more action. We are true believers in racing in its purest form – where the race is decided by the drivers on the track – not just engineers in the racing centers.
Leading into this race, fans were ready to see who would take home the title: Alex Palou or Will Power. After an early bow out from Will Power due to an issue with his lap belt, crowds wondered whether the race could live up to the hype surrounding it. They were not wondering for long, as throughout the thunderous 206 laps, they experienced 653 takeovers in the race, with each driver fighting hard to end the season with a win.
Colton Herta made a pass in the third turn in the last moments of the race to win his first oval race, and more importantly, his hometown race. Colton’s home track is the Nashville Superspeedway, making it an especially emotional win. The energy in the crowd as the smell of rubber filled the air was palpable, and the roar when Colton’s two fists were lifted into the air was deafening.
Riley Green closed out the weekend with an intimate concert mere feet from the track where he serenaded the audience with hits such as “I Wish Grandpa’s Never Died” and “There Was This Girl”. Being in Nashville, the iconic line from “Hell of a Way to Go” where Riley sings “Watchin’ Alabama whoop up on Tennessee” was quick to draw boos from the crowd. Those boos were quickly replaced with cheers as he ended the show with “Dixieland Delight” by Alabama, a song which (everyone knows) is about Tenessee.
For most people in the crowd, the race doesn’t simply represent a day out, and concerts by artists like Riley Green aren’t just an excuse to listen to music. The racing and the music are a part of who they are. The cars speeding past sparks a mirage, sending them back to the living room on Sunday afternoon watching the big race with their loved ones. The music floods memories from the past of friends, family, and racing.
There is a burning nostalgia for the Indycar of old when drivers like Al Unser Jr. and Mario Andretti graced the track with their unforgettable racing. What we witnessed on Sunday was a return to that and a glimpse into the future of the sport. The emotions were high, family bonds were strong, and the smiles were radiant. The future of racing is bright, and the NTT Indycar Series is leading the way.
This year’s race was bigger than ever, but won’t touch the excitement being planned for next year’s race and music festival. Next year, the race will take place on Labor Day weekend, and festivities will be off the charts.
For a limited time, renew your pass for next year for as low as $34.00. Click here to learn more.
Sources:
Dear Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Guests,
It’s race week, and we are excited to welcome you to our high-speed series finale at the Nashville Superspeedway! Like you, we are keenly watching the weather forecast as the remnants of Hurricane Francis impact central Tennessee and our neighbors to the south. Our hearts are with the people of Mississippi and Louisiana who have been bearing the brunt of the storm. While we’re hoping for clear skies, we have contingency plans to ensure a great experience no matter what.
Updates will be provided via our social channels (@musiccitygp on Instagram, Facebook, and X) and email as we have them. We intend to overcommunicate with all of you on what we know at any given time. If you have any questions, please comment on any of our posts because you may be asking a question that can help all our race fans collectively. We will be answering those in the comments and via video updates.
Regarding race day, it is our policy, along with the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, to make every effort to conduct two days of racing activity as the inclement weather permits. We are vigilantly monitoring the weather with local and state agencies to create contingencies that prioritize the safety of our competitors and all our dedicated fans and customers.
Our partners at the Nashville Superspeedway have all the resources we need to execute on-track activities into the evening hours. We will continue to monitor the weather and communicate our plans as they are finalized to all those invested in this race.
We are still full steam ahead with the planned events, but the schedule can change with the weather. We will do our best to tell you what we know when we know it; just keep an eye on our social media and emails.
We deeply appreciate your understanding and flexibility during this time. We are eagerly looking forward to an unforgettable weekend with you at the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix!
Scott Borchetta
Race weekend: Saturday, Sept. 14-Sunday, Sept. 15
Track: Nashville Superspeedway, a 1.33-mile oval in Lebanon, Tennessee
Race distance:
NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge: 206 laps/273.98 miles
INDY NXT by Firestone
INDY NXT by Firestone Music City Grand Prix: 65 laps/86.45 miles
Media Links: Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge Entry List (PDF) | INDY NXT by Firestone Music City Grand Prix Entry List (PDF) | Trackside Media Guide (Interactive PDF)
Hybrid energy deployment parameters:
NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Unlimited activation with a maximum deployment of 140 kilojoules (kJ) per lap.
Firestone tire allotment:
NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Six sets primary, four sets alternate to be used during the event weekend. Teams must use one set of primary and two sets of alternate tires during the race. One additional set is available for use during the upper/lower groove session Saturday.
INDY NXT by Firestone
Two new sets for use through the event weekend. A carryover set from the Nashville Open Test in August may be used during pre-qualifying practice sessions Saturday.
X: @musiccitygp, @IndyCar, #INDYCAR, #MusicCityGP
Instagram: @musiccitygp, @INDYCAR, #INDYCAR, #MusicCityGP
Threads: @INDYCAR, @INDYNXT
Facebook: @MusicCityGP, @INDYCAR, #INDYCAR, #MusicCityGP
TikTok: @MusicCityGP, @INDYCAR, #INDYCAR, #MusicCityGP
YouTube: @INDYCAR
2008 race winners (most recent event at Nashville Superspeedway):
NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Scott Dixon (No. 9 Energizer Dallara/Honda/Firestone)
INDY NXT by Firestone
Ana Beatriz (No. 20 Healthy Choice/Sam Schmidt Motorsports)
2008 NTT P1 Award winner (most recent event at Nashville Superspeedway):
Helio Castroneves (No. 3 Team Penske Dallara/Honda/Firestone), 1 minute, 31.5320 seconds, 204.519 mph (four laps)
2008 INDY NXT by Firestone pole winner (most recent event at Nashville Superspeedway):
James Davison (No. 11 Lifelock/Sam Schmidt Motorsports), 51.8844 seconds, 180.401 mph (two laps)
One-lap qualifying record:
NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Scott Dixon, 22.6952 seconds, 206.211 mph, July 18, 2003
INDY NXT by Firestone
Thiago Medeiros, 25.6508 seconds, 182.386 mph, July 16, 2004
NBC Sports race telecast: Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge, 3 p.m. ET Sunday, Sept. 15, NBC. Kevin Lee is the play-by-play announcer for coverage of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, alongside analysts Townsend Bell and James Hinchcliffe. Dave Burns and Georgia Henneberry are the pit reporters. Universo will provide a Spanish-language telecast.
Peacock live streaming: All NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice sessions and qualifying will stream live on Peacock, NBC’s direct-to-consumer livestreaming product, while NBC’s telecast of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge will be simulcast on Peacock. The INDY NXT by Firestone Music City Grand Prix will be streamed on Peacock, with practice and qualifying shown on INDYCAR LIVE.
INDYCAR Radio Network broadcasts: Mark Jaynes is the anchor alongside driver analyst Davey Hamilton. Nick Yeoman is the turn announcer. Jake Query, Michael Young and DJ Clark are the pit reporters. The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge (3 p.m. ET Sunday), INDY NXT by Firestone Music City Grand Prix (11:45 a.m. ET Sunday) and all NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone at Nashville Superspeedway practices and qualifying sessions air live on network affiliates, SiriusXM 218, racecontrol.indycar.com and the INDYCAR App powered by NTT DATA.
At-track schedule (all times Central):
SATURDAY, SEPT. 14
9-9:30 a.m. INDY NXT by Firestone Practice 1, INDYCAR LIVE
10-11:30 a.m. NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice, Peacock
Noon-12:30 p.m. INDY NXT by Firestone Practice 2, INDYCAR LIVE
1:15 p.m. Qualifying for the NTT P1 Award (Single car, Two laps, Peacock
2:45 p.m. INDY NXT by Firestone Qualifying (Single car, Two laps), INDYCAR LIVE
4:15-4:45 p.m. NTT INDYCAR SERIES Upper/Lower Groove Session (Two groups, 15 minutes each), Peacock
5-6 p.m. NTT INDYCAR SERIES Final Practice, Peacock
SUNDAY, SEPT. 15
10:55 a.m. INDY NXT by Firestone Music City Grand Prix “Drivers, start your engines)
11 a.m. INDY NXT by Firestone Music City Grand Prix (65 laps/86.45 miles), Peacock
2 p.m. NBC on air
2:25 p.m. “Drivers, start your engines”
2:30 p.m. Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge (206 laps/273.98 miles), NBC, Universo and Peacock (Live)
NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship facts:
Point differential: The 33 points separating Alex Palou and Will Power is the seventh-largest point margin with a race remaining since 2008. During that span, the average lead with one race remaining is 29.9 points.
Key championship point statistic: Ryan Hunter-Reay overcame a 17-point deficit to win the 2012 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship – the largest margin made up by an INDYCAR SERIES champion in the finale since 2000. Dan Wheldon made up 19 points in the 2006 season finale at Chicagoland Speedway to tie Sam Hornish Jr. atop the point standings, but Hornish won the championship via tiebreaker.
|
CHAMPIONSHIP WITH 1 TO GO (2008-2024) |
||||||||||||
| YEAR | LEADER | SECOND | LEAD | CHAMPION | ||||||||
| 2008 | Scott Dixon | Helio Castroneves | 30 | Scott Dixon | ||||||||
| 2009 | Scott Dixon | Dario Franchitti | 5 | Dario Franchitti | ||||||||
| 2010 | Will Power | Dario Franchitti | 12 | Dario Franchitti | ||||||||
| 2011 | Will Power | Dario Franchitti | 11 | Dario Franchitti | ||||||||
| 2012 | Will Power | Ryan Hunter-Reay | 17 | Ryan Hunter-Reay | ||||||||
| 2013 | Scott Dixon | Helio Castroneves | 25 | Scott Dixon | ||||||||
| 2014* | Will Power | Helio Castroneves | 51 | Will Power | ||||||||
| 2015* | Juan Pablo Montoya | Graham Rahal | 34 | Scott Dixon (-47) | ||||||||
| 2016* | Simon Pagenaud | Will Power | 43 | Simon Pagenaud | ||||||||
| 2017* | Josef Newgarden | Scott Dixon | 3 | Josef Newgarden | ||||||||
| 2018* | Scott Dixon | Alexander Rossi | 29 | Scott Dixon | ||||||||
| 2019* | Josef Newgarden | Alexander Rossi | 41 | Josef Newgarden | ||||||||
| 2020 | Scott Dixon | Josef Newgarden | 32 | Scott Dixon | ||||||||
| 2021 | Alex Palou | Pato O’Ward | 35 | Alex Palou | ||||||||
| 2022 | Will Power | Josef Newgarden | 20 | Will Power | ||||||||
| 2023 | Alex Palou | Scott Dixon | 91 | Alex Palou | ||||||||
| 2024 | Alex Palou | Will Power | 33 | ??? | ||||||||
| * Double points were awarded for NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship race | ||||||||||||
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Notes:
INDY NXT by Firestone Race Notes:
MEDIA CONTACTS
Dave Furst
Vice President, Communications
+1-317-492-6244, dfurst@indycar.com
Kate Davis
Director, Communications
+1-386-566-8538, kdavis@indycar.com
Arni Sribhen
Coordinator, Communications
+1-317-492-8531, asribhen@indycar.com
Kiran Brar
Coordinator, Communications
+1-317-503-1504, kbrar@indycar.com
Via INDYCAR.COM (September 6, 2024) – In partnership with Firestone, INDYCAR has announced the addition of Firestone Firehawk alternate-compound tires for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season finale, the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge on Sept. 14-15 at Nashville Superspeedway.
Used in addition to Firestone Firehawk primary compounds, the softer alternate red-sidewall tires will provide another set of options, strategies and choices for drivers and teams as INDYCAR continues to enhance wheel-to-wheel racing action and turbocharge the championship weekend.
In addition, rules for use of the weekend’s tire allotment also have been updated.
Each NTT INDYCAR SERIES entry will receive:
NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams may use their weekend allotment unrestricted in practice and NTT P1 Award qualifying. In the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix race, teams must use, in any order:
As on road and street circuits, cars must complete two laps on each set of required tires. Failure to comply with this rule will result in a minimum one-lap penalty.
Also new to the event, there are no requirements whether the tires used in the race must be “new” or “used.” Additionally, there are no restrictions governing the use of new or used primary or alternate tires in NTT P1 Award qualifying.
This is the second time alternate-compound tires have been used on an oval following the successful debut of the option Aug. 27, 2023, at the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 presented by Axalta and Valvoline at World Wide Technology Raceway.
“Firestone has done a phenomenal job with this expanded format,” INDYCAR President Jay Frye said. “It will be interesting to watch how the different strategies play out. We look forward to an amazing race and championship for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES at Nashville Superspeedway.”
In addition to the combined 10 sets of primary and alternate tires, each entry will receive a third and different set only to be used in the high-line group practice aimed at adding additional grip to a second racing groove – a session that has produced favorable results in 2023 and 2024.
“The time between the announcement of a new Nashville venue and the race itself was just seven months,” said Cara Krstolic, director, Race Tire Engineering and Production, chief engineer, Firestone. “Our Firestone team rose to the challenge of an extremely short design cycle and its shortest-ever production timeframe to produce tires for a now heavier hybrid-powered car on a track the NTT INDYCAR SERIES hasn’t competed on since 2008.
“Following two tests on the Nashville oval, we worked with INDYCAR to create differentiation in tires that would provide fans and competitors with an exciting race. To achieve that goal, Firestone is providing an alternate tire for the Music City Grand Prix. Lessons learned from introducing alternates on an oval last season at St. Louis also contributed to our preparation.
“The goal for the alternate tire is to have significant wear and degradation to the point that team pit stop strategies could change as tires may wear before the end of a fuel stint. They are also designed for the different grip levels of the two types of tires to aid in creating more passing opportunities.”
Practice at Nashville Superspeedway begins at 11 a.m. ET Saturday, Sept. 14, with NTT P1 Award qualifying scheduled for 2:15 p.m., high-line practice at 5:15 p.m. and the final practice of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season at 6 p.m. All sessions are available via Peacock and the INDYCAR Radio Network. Coverage of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, Sept. 15 begins at 3 p.m. on NBC, Peacock and the INDYCAR Radio Network.
-- MusicCityGP.com --
About Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND will take place in Nashville Friday, September 13th through Sunday, September 15th. The downtown kickoff features an incredible lineup of great entertainment on Friday, including this year’s Pit Stop Competition Championship, Street Fair, the 4th Annual Freedom Friday Concert, and more.
This year’s Freedom Friday show will be bigger than ever, taking place on Lower Broadway and will feature our most powerful musical lineup yet.
Saturday, the action turns to the Nashville Superspeedway for practice and qualifying for the NTT INDYCARS, Indy NXT, Vintage Indy, and a full music line-up.
On Championship Sunday, Indy NXT and the season finale NTT INDYCAR Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will be front and center, surrounded by music and entertainment, then crowning the season champion with the presentation of the Astor Cup.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted three NASCAR Cup Series races, 24 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight NTT INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
Nashville, TN (August 28, 2024) – The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix is pleased to announce Gainbridge®, a Group 1001 company, as its presenting sponsor for the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge® at Nashville Superspeedway, September 14-15, 2024. This multi-year agreement brings together two long-time supporters of the motorsport world, culminating in the celebration of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season finale in the most exciting city in America.
Gainbridge® is an innovative digital platform offering direct access to trusted financial products to grow savings. Their involvement in motorsports is well-established, and this partnership underscores their dedication to the sport and its fans.
“Gainbridge® seeks to align our investment in motorsports with our commitment to education and sports initiatives,” said Mike Nichols, Chief of Sponsorship Strategy and Activations for Gainbridge®. “It’s exciting to add one of the biggest races of the IndyCar season to our robust motorsports sponsorship portfolio.”
Gainbridge® is also the primary sponsor of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES No. 26 Andretti Global with Gainbridge® Honda driven by Nashville’s Colton Herta, and the presenting sponsor of the Indianapolis 500, the largest attended single-day sporting event in the world.
“We are so honored to have Gainbridge® join us as presenting sponsor of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix,” says Founding Partner of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix and Big Machine Label Group Founder/CEO Scott Borchetta. “As our new presenting partner, and with a multi-year commitment, together we will cement the passion for NTT INDYCAR in Music City and Middle Tennessee.”
The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix Presented by Gainbridge® will showcase the thrilling conclusion of the INDYCAR and INDYNXT series at the Nashville Superspeedway. Fans can expect high-intensity, wheel-to-wheel action on the 1.33-mile D-shaped concrete oval, where the world's fastest and most versatile drivers will race to determine their place in the INDYCAR championship standings and award the coveted Astor Cup to the 2024 Series NTT INDYCAR SERIES Champion. For more information, visit www.musiccitygp.com.
-- MusicCityGP.com --
About Gainbridge®
Founded in 2018, Gainbridge® is an insurtech subsidiary of Group 1001 that empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone, no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Its platform provides access to financial products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge® is headquartered in Zionsville, Indiana. For more information, visit www.gainbridge.io or follow and connect with us on X and LinkedIn.
About Group 1001
Group 1001 is a collective that empowers companies to create positive growth. Our insurance and annuities are easy to understand and accessible to all. Our online investing platform gives individuals control over their savings. Our technology and innovation help companies succeed. And our strategic partnerships bring people together through education and sports.
As of June 30, 2024, Group 1001 had more than 1,400 employees and combined assets under management of $65.2 billion, serving more than 950,000 customers. It comprises the following brands: Delaware Life, Gainbridge®, Clear Spring Health, Clear Spring Property and Casualty Group, Clear Spring Life and Annuity Company, and RVI Group, among others.
About Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND will take place in Nashville Friday, September 13th through Sunday, September 15th. The downtown kickoff features an incredible lineup of great entertainment on Friday, including this year’s Pit Stop Competition Championship, Street Fair, the 4th Annual Freedom Friday Concert, and more. This year’s Freedom Friday show will be bigger than ever, taking place on Lower Broadway and will feature our most powerful musical lineup yet. Saturday, the action turns to the Nashville Superspeedway for practice and qualifying for the NTT INDYCARS, Indy NXT, Vintage Indy, and a full music line-up. On Championship Sunday, Indy NXT and the season finale NTT INDYCAR Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will be front and center, surrounded by music and entertainment, then crowning the season champion with the presentation of the Astor Cup.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted three NASCAR Cup Series races, 24 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight NTT INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
Media Contacts
Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
Katie Brannan
katiebrannanpr@gmail.com
775.783.9033
Nashville Superspeedway
Alan George
ageorge@
574.340.3977
Nashville, TN (August 27, 2024) - Honda has established a remarkable legacy in the NTT INDYCAR Series, showcasing a history filled with triumphs and innovation. The manufacturer has also played a pivotal role in elevating the sport of INDYCAR. That will continue with their role as the Official Vehicle and Pace Car of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix at Nashville Superspeedway, September 14-15, 2024.
When the 2024 NTT INDYCAR Series season finale takes the green flag, the field will be paced by the 2024 Honda Civic Type R pace car, the most powerful, best performing Civic Type R in Honda history. Honda will also provide all on track vehicles for pre-race events, in addition to on track safety and shuttle vehicles for the race event.
“Honda is proud to be partnering with the Big Machine family on the Music City Grand Prix,” said Chuck Schifsky, motorsports manager, American Honda. “It’s great to have Honda-powered race cars back on the Nashville Superspeedway, especially as we compete for the NTT INDYCAR championship in Music City.”
Renowned for their competitive spirit and engineering excellence, Honda-powered cars have claimed numerous victories, earning championship titles, and setting performance benchmarks. Away from the racetrack, Honda’s contributions to motor racing extends beyond the engines, underscoring their dedication to the sport and its community, continuing to inspire racing enthusiasts around the world.
“We are thrilled to have Honda align with us as our Official Vehicle and Pace Car Partner. Three of the top five drivers in the NTT INDYCAR points race are powered by Honda, so their enhanced presence with us in Nashville will literally take fans from the green flag to the finish line!” said Scott Borchetta, leader of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix and Big Machine Label Group chair and founder.
The 2024 INDYCAR Series has just two races remaining, and eight of the world’s fastest drivers are still mathematically eligible to become the 2024 Champion. The title may come down to the wire, and for the first time, the Astor Cup will be awarded at the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix.
The three-day festival of speed kicks off with Freedom Friday, featuring INDYCAR’s fastest pit crews as they compete for a $50k purse at the Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway, followed by Brantley Gilbert’s “World’s Largest Album Release Party.” Fans can expect high-intensity, wheel to wheel INDYCAR action Saturday and Sunday on Nashville Superspeedway’s 1.33-mile D-shaped oval. The music continues at the Speedway, after the on-track action, with an exciting music line-up including Chase McDaniel, Daughtry, Riley Green and more. Fans are encouraged to plan in advance and get their tickets while they last at www.musiccitygp.com.
-- MusicCityGP.com --
About Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND will take place in Nashville Friday, September 13th through Sunday, September 15th. The downtown kickoff features an incredible lineup of great entertainment on Friday, including this year’s Pit Stop Competition Championship, Street Fair, the 4th Annual Freedom Friday Concert, and more. This year’s Freedom Friday show will be bigger than ever, taking place on Lower Broadway and will feature our most powerful musical lineup yet. Saturday, the action turns to the Nashville Superspeedway for practice and qualifying for the NTT INDYCARS, Indy NXT, Vintage Indy, and a full music line-up. On Championship Sunday, Indy NXT and the season finale NTT INDYCAR Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will be front and center, surrounded by music and entertainment, then crowning the season champion with the presentation of the Astor Cup.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted three NASCAR Cup Series races, 24 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight NTT INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
Media Contacts
Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
Katie Brannan
775.783.9033
Nashville Superspeedway
Alan George
ageorge@
574.340.3977
Follow Us
Keep track of all of Nashville Superspeedway’s events by following on X and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted four NASCAR Cup Series races, 25 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 17 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
LEBANON, Tenn. — Bringing a new level of excitement to Freedom Friday, the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix is proud to announce its partnership with Hy-Vee for the "Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway," a pitstop competition featuring five of the fastest pit crews from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.
The fourth annual Big Machine Music City Grand Prix race weekend kicks off with the action-packed Freedom Friday, a free event, where INDYCAR and country music stars converge for Nashville’s most thrilling street festival. The adrenaline-fueled showdown begins as the "Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway" features world-class pit crews and their lightning-fast precision and teamwork as they compete to be the quickest crew. The stakes are higher than ever at the "Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway" with a generous $50,000 payout.
“Winning in INDYCAR simply does not happen without a complete team effort,” INDYCAR president Jay Frye said. “It takes an incredible amount of skill and precision by these men and women as they look to gain any advantage on pit lane. The 'Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway' will be a tremendous showcase for these crews as we kick off the championship weekend for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.”
Named one of America’s favorite grocery stores, Hy-Vee is an employee-owned company with more than 570 business units across nine Midwestern states. In addition to their partnership with the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix, Hy-Vee is the title sponsor for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES doubleheader weekend at Iowa Speedway.
Following the "Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway" pitstop competition, the excitement continues with "Burnouts On Broadway" and Brantley Gilbert's “WORLD'S LARGEST ALBUM RELEASE PARTY," presented by 1st Phorm Energy, where the multi-platinum country-rock singer will debut his new album “TATTOOS.” The Freedom Friday concert honors members of the military, police, first responders, and frontline heroes kicking off the fourth annual Big Machine Music City Grand Prix's festival of motorsports and music.
“Downtown Nashville has embraced the excitement of INDYCAR since we launched the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix in 2021. Now, as we bring the NTT INDYCAR championship weekend to Nashville for the first time and shift the Saturday and Sunday racing to Nashville Superspeedway, we want to ensure our Friday kick-off events celebrate the spirit of one of America’s greatest cities. Having Hy-Vee present the action on Broadway is going to make the night extra special,” said Scott Borchetta, founding partner of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix, and Big Machine Label Group founder and CEO.
New for 2024, the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix is the season finale for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone and will take place at Nashville Superspeedway on Sept. 14-15. Fans can expect high-intensity, wheel-to-wheel action on the 1.33-mile D-shaped concrete oval, where the world's fastest and most versatile drivers will race to determine their place in the INDYCAR championship standings and crown the 2024 series champion.
Freedom Friday Schedule of Events
NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams competing in the "Hy-Vee Battle On Broadway"
No. 8 Chip Ganassi Racing and driver Linus Lunqvist
No. 60 Meyer Shank Racing and driver Felix Rosenqvist
No. 21 Ed Carpenter Racing and driver Rinus Veekay
No. 77 Juncos Hollinger Racing and driver Romain Grosjean
No. 45 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and driver Christian Lundgaard
-- MusicCityGP.com --
Race Schedule and Tickets
Sunday, Sept. 15
NTT IndyCar Series Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
2 p.m. CT, NBC, Peacock, INDYCAR Live, SiriusXM
Call 866.RACE.TIX to discuss your options with an account representative, or visit NashvilleSuperspeedway.com.
Follow Us
Keep track of all of Nashville Superspeedway’s events by following on X and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted four NASCAR Cup Series races, 25 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 17 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The fourth annual Big Machine Music City Grand Prix announces single-day grandstand ticket availability and family-friendly pricing for children 12 and under as part of the INDYCAR championship weekend Sept. 14-15. During the weekend, the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone champions will be crowned and race fans and music lovers will have the chance to experience the best and brightest on the track and on the stages.
Single-day grandstand tickets start at $55 plus tax for Sept. 14 and at $95 plus tax for Sept. 15. Tickets for children 12 and under are available at a 50% discount on the two-day ticket price. Entry for children ages 3 and under is free. Youth tickets can be secured at checkout via your purchase transaction. Tickets can be purchased online at MusicCityGP.com or by calling 866.RACE.TIX.
Saturday, Sept. 14
7:30 a.m. - Gates open
8 a.m. - Vintage Indy
9 a.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone practice
9 a.m. - DJ Blanco (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
10:30 a.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice
11:15 a.m. - Mackenzie Carpenter (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11:35 a.m. - Noah Hicks (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11:55 a.m. - Shaylen (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
12:15 p.m. - Chase McDaniel (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
12:30 p.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone qualifying
12:35 p.m. - Mae Estes (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
12:55 p.m. - Brian Kelley (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
1:45 p.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice
2:15 p.m. - Conner Smith (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
3:15 p.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone final practice
3:30 p.m. - Gary LeVox (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
4:45 p.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES qualifying
6:05 p.m. - Vintage Indy
7 p.m. - Gates close
Sunday, Sept. 15
7:30 a.m. - Gates open
8 a.m. - Vintage Indy
8 a.m. - DJ Hish (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
9:30 a.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver autograph session
10 a.m. - Greylan James (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11 a.m. - Redferrin (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11 a.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone season championship race
12:25 p.m. - Pre-race festivities with Daughtry performing and Diplo as grand marshal (Trackside Stage)
2:25 p.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES season championship race
Post-race - Victory circle celebration
5 p.m. - DJ Slim McGraw (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
5:30 p.m. - Riley Green (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
7 p.m. - Gates close
-- MusicCityGP.com --
About Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship weekend will take place in Nashville Sept. 13-14. The downtown kickoff features an incredible lineup of great entertainment on Friday, including this year’s pit stop competition championship, street fair, the fourth annual Freedom Friday Concert, and more. This year’s Freedom Friday show will be bigger than ever, taking place on Lower Broadway and will feature our most powerful musical lineup yet. Saturday, the action turns to the Nashville Superspeedway for practice and qualifying for the NTT INDYCARS, Indy NXT, Vintage Indy and a full music line-up. On Championship Sunday, Indy NXT and the season finale NTT INDYCAR Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will be front and center, surrounded by music and entertainment, then crowning the season champion with the presentation of the Astor Cup.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted three NASCAR Cup Series races, 24 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight NTT INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
Follow Us
Keep track of all of Nashville Superspeedway’s events by following on X and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The fourth annual Big Machine Music City Grand Prix announced the full race schedule and a hit-filled mix of talent performing as part of the INDYCAR championship weekend Sept. 14-15, as all roads lead to Nashville where the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone champions will be crowned. Race fans and music lovers will have the chance to experience the best and brightest on the track and on the stages.
“Music has been a big part of this race experience since we launched in 2021, and this year is no different. Sound and speed will merge as we bring fans some of the best and brightest artists on the scene today,” said founding partner of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix and Big Machine Label Group Founder/CEO Scott Borchetta. “Music programming will take place on Saturday and Sunday on the iHeartCountry FanZone stage, with additional trackside performances on Sunday. This is a weekend experience you don’t want to miss!”
Concerts are free with entry. The full weekend schedule with race and concert times is revealed below.
Saturday, Sept. 14
7:30 a.m. - Gates open
8 a.m. - Vintage Indy
9 a.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone practice
9 a.m. - DJ Blanco (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
10:30 a.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice
11:15 a.m. - Mackenzie Carpenter (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11:35 a.m. - Noah Hicks (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11:55 a.m. - Shaylen (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
12:15 p.m. - Chase McDaniel (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
12:30 p.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone qualifying
12:35 p.m. - Mae Estes (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
12:55 p.m. - Brian Kelley (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
1:45 p.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice
2:15 p.m. - Conner Smith (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
3:15 p.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone final practice
3:30 p.m. - Gary LeVox (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
4:45 p.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES qualifying
6:05 p.m. - Vintage Indy
7 p.m. - Gates close
Sunday, Sept. 15
7:30 a.m. - Gates open
8 a.m. - Vintage Indy
8 a.m. - DJ Hish (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
9:30 a.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver autograph session
10 a.m. - Greylan James (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11 a.m. - Redferrin (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
11 a.m. - INDY NXT by Firestone season championship race
12:25 p.m. - Pre-race festivities with Daughtry performing and Diplo as grand marshal (Trackside Stage)
2:25 p.m. - NTT INDYCAR SERIES season championship race
Post-race - Victory circle celebration
5 p.m. - DJ Slim McGraw (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
5:30 p.m. - Riley Green (iHeartCountry FanZone Stage)
7 p.m. - Gates close
Schedule is subject to change.
Tickets for the weekend events begin at $149 and feature an array of options for every fan, including grandstand, premium grandstand, camping packages and suites. Tickets can be purchased online at MusicCityGP.com or by calling 866.RACE.TIX.
-- MusicCityGP.com --
About Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship weekend will take place in Nashville Sept. 13-14. The downtown kickoff features an incredible lineup of great entertainment on Friday, including this year’s pit stop competition championship, street fair, the fourth annual Freedom Friday Concert, and more. This year’s Freedom Friday show will be bigger than ever, taking place on Lower Broadway and will feature our most powerful musical lineup yet. Saturday, the action turns to the Nashville Superspeedway for practice and qualifying for the NTT INDYCARS, Indy NXT, Vintage Indy and a full music line-up. On Championship Sunday, Indy NXT and the season finale NTT INDYCAR Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will be front and center, surrounded by music and entertainment, then crowning the season champion with the presentation of the Astor Cup.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted three NASCAR Cup Series races, 24 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight NTT INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
Follow Us
Keep track of all of Nashville Superspeedway’s events by following on X and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan.
Diplo photo credit: USA Today
LEBANON, Tenn. – The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will return to Nashville Superspeedway in 2025 and will serve as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship race for the second straight year, it was announced today by INDYCAR.
The announcement was parlayed with the news of a new media rights deal that provides a massive and unprecedented increase in exposure for North America’s premier open-wheel racing series, with every 2025 race airing on FOX and available on the FOX Sports app. FOX Deportes will carry exclusive Spanish-language television coverage with a schedule to be announced at a later date.
The 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season kicks off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 2 and concludes with the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix on Aug. 31.
This news comes along with continued growth and momentum for INDYCAR, which has seen rising attendance across its schedule, significant growth in commercial partnerships and record metrics across its digital platforms.
This year’s edition of the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix at Nashville Superspeedway is set to start at 2 p.m. CT on Sept. 15. The season finale will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock, determining the 2024 NTT INDCYAR SERIES champion. Nashville Superspeedway is known for its high-intensity, wheel-to-wheel action. By hosting the season finale, it will be the first oval in a decade to decide an NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship (Fontana, 2014).
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES raced at the iconic 1.33 mile D-shaped oval from 2001 to 2008. Six-time INDYCAR SERIES champion Scott Dixon is the last driver to reach victory lane at the venue with a commanding “three-peat” in 2006, 2007 and 2008.
INDYCAR at Nashville Superspeedway dates to the track’s inaugural season when it was home to the Firestone Indy 200. Debuting in 2001, it marked the advent of American open-wheel racing in Middle Tennessee with drivers such as Tony Kanaan, Dario Franchitti and three-time winner Dixon hoisting the winning trophy.
-- NashvilleSuperspeedway.com --
Race Schedule and Tickets
Nashville Superspeedway’s 2024 race schedule includes:
Friday, June 28
Rackley Roofing 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race
7 p.m., FS2, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Saturday, June 29
Tennessee Lottery 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race
4 p.m. CT, USA, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Sunday, June 30
Ally 400 NASCAR Cup Series race
2:30 p.m. CT, NBC, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Sunday, Sept. 15
NTT IndyCar Series Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
2 p.m. CT, NBC, Peacock, IndyCar Live, SiriusXM
Call 866.RACE.TIX to discuss your options with an account representative, or visit NashvilleSuperspeedway.com. Tickets for children ages 12 and younger (with a paying adult) are free for the NASCAR races on Friday and Saturday and are only $10 for Sunday.
Follow Us
Keep track of all of Nashville Superspeedway’s events by following on X and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan.
About Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES Championship Weekend will take place in Nashville Sept. 13-15. The downtown kickoff features an incredible lineup of great entertainment on Friday, including this year’s Pit Stop Competition Championship, Street Fair, the fourth annual Freedom Friday Concert, and more. This year’s Freedom Friday show will be bigger than ever, taking place on Lower Broadway and will feature our most powerful musical lineup yet. On Saturday, the action turns to the Nashville Superspeedway for practice and qualifying for the NTT INDYCARS, Indy NXT, Vintage Indy, and a full music line-up. On Championship Sunday, Indy NXT and the season finale NTT INDYCAR Big Machine Music City Grand Prix will be front and center, surrounded by music and entertainment, then crowning the season champion with the presentation of the Astor Cup.
About Nashville Superspeedway
Nashville Superspeedway, Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel, is a year-round family-friendly destination in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking has hosted four NASCAR Cup Series races, 25 NASCAR Xfinity Series races, 17 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events and eight INDYCAR SERIES contests. The largest concrete-only track in NASCAR, Nashville Superspeedway is owned by Speedway Motorsports.
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