Why Talladega Superspeedway’s $420M impact on Alabama’s economy matters

NASCAR fans, this one is for you! A recent economic impact study conducted by Auburn University at Montgomery found that the two annual races at Talladega Superspeedway bring in $420 million to the community. Keep reading to learn why this matters.

Talladega Superspeedway’s impact

Rev your engines! After this past weekend’s GEICO 500 race—where Ross Chastain won his first-ever win at the Talladega Superspeedway—Talladega Superspeedway President Brian Crichton noted that the two annual races have major economic significance to the community.

Crichton stated that Talladega Superspeedway runs economic laps when it comes to East Central Alabama’s economy. In fact, a study conducted by Auburn University at Montgomery found that NASCAR brings in roughly $420M a year.

Fans come from every state and across the globe—28 countries have been documented so far—to see this fast-paced sport. The appreciation for this sport can be seen in the distances they travel, bringing in an exciting diverse group of people to East Central Alabama.

“Seventy-one percent of our fans come from outside the state of Alabama. That drives clean tourism dollars into our area. They don’t just come for Sunday. They are staying for a minimum of three and a half days.”

Brian Crichton, President, Talladega Superspeedway

NASCAR + the community

Crichton plans to strengthen the track’s relationship with the community by dispersing capital from the track to the City of Talladega and the City of Oxford.

The Superspeedway has worked with the City of Talladega to reinstate the Walk of Fame. They’ve also partnered with the City of Oxford to assist with the production of a car hauler parade starting at the Oxford Exchange.

“We want to work with all of our local communities on bringing new events to them. Is there a music festival? Is there an air show? Are there large events on which we can all work together to entice visitors to come into our hotels and restaurants? How can we come together to utilize this beautiful world-class facility not just for NASCAR?”

Brian Crichton, President, Talladega Superspeedway

Talladega Superspeedway also serves the community through educational programs. They’ve hosted more than 600 STEM students from Alabama on a race weekend introducing them to Talladega and NASCAR science, technology, engineering and math.

“Our job is to sell visitors a ticket to come here, but I want them to extend their stay and hopefully make a decision to come back here when they are not just coming for a NASCAR race.”

Brian Crichton, President, Talladega Superspeedway

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