Denny Hamlin is longing to ‘own or run’ a long-lost iconic NASCAR track in Virginia

Southside Speedway hosted the last NASCAR race way back in 1963.

Denny Hamlin (Credits: IMAGO)

Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin has recently opened up about his heartfelt desire to own or operate the historic Southside Speedway in Midlothian, Virginia. This iconic 0.33-mile track holds a special place in Hamlin’s heart, as it was his childhood home track, and he is eager to ensure its revival. The speedway, which closed its doors in December 2020, has been a subject of interest for the Chesterfield County authorities. Hamlin is keen on becoming a pivotal figure in its future.

The Southside Speedway boasts a rich and storied history, having hosted NASCAR Cup Series races from 1961 to 1963. Legendary names such as Junior Johnson, Jimmy Pardue, Jim Paschal, and Ned Jarrett have all tasted victory on this hallowed ground. The likes of Richard Petty, Joe Weatherly, Buck Baker, and Wendell Scott also graced the track with their presence. Beyond its NASCAR history, the speedway nurtured talents like Bobby Allison and Darrell Waltrip during their formative years.

Hamlin’s interest in the Southside Speedway has been ongoing, and he has maintained contact with the county officials regarding his aspirations. In his own words, during a recent press conference, Hamlin said, as reported by Shorttrack Scene, “My interest would be to own it. I would love to run it but I would love to own it if I were to run it.” He added, “We’d have to work around that for sure.”

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For Denny Hamlin, Southside Speedway holds a unique significance in his journey to becoming a racing sensation. He attended races at the track as a child, which ignited his passion for the sport. He then transitioned into local divisions and Late Model Stocks, honing his skills at the venue he now hopes to rescue from oblivion.

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Initially, Chesterfield County had plans to redevelop the Southside Speedway property into restaurants and commercial space. However, Hamlin’s determination, along with the efforts of groups like “Save Southside Speedway,” has shifted the narrative towards preserving the track as a motorsports hub. Axios reports that finding developers willing to construct both a racetrack and hotels on the property proved challenging.

Denny Hamlin (Left, credits: Motorsports.com) and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Right, Today Show)

Hamlin is not just thinking about owning the speedway; he is also considering its long-term viability. He explained, “I told them we need x amount of money to own this track to upgrade it and make it super nice.” Moreover, Hamlin has received support from fellow racing legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., who has expressed his willingness to bring the CARS Tour to the Southside Speedway twice a year, potentially making it a thriving motorsports destination.

As Chesterfield County seeks proposals for the speedway’s future, Denny Hamlin’s involvement brings a new dimension to the conversation. While the county has set a quick turnaround deadline for receiving proposals, Hamlin remains undeterred. He noted that there have been previous deadlines, indicating the county’s ongoing efforts to determine the best course of action for this historic racing venue.