35 Facts About The Brickyard 400

The Brickyard 400: A NASCAR Classic

The Brickyard 400 is one of NASCAR's most iconic races. Held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, this event has a rich history filled with memorable moments and fascinating facts. Let's dive into some of the most interesting tidbits about this legendary race.

Origins and Early Years

The Brickyard 400 has a storied beginning that set the stage for its legendary status in the racing world.

1. The inaugural Brickyard 400 took place on August 6, 1994. It marked the first time NASCAR raced at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
2. Jeff Gordon won the first Brickyard 400, making him the youngest winner at the time, at just 23 years old.
3. The race was initially called the "Brickyard 400" because the track was originally paved with bricks. Today, only a yard of bricks remains at the start/finish line.
4. Over 250,000 fans attended the first race, making it one of the largest crowds in NASCAR history.
5. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is often referred to as "The Brickyard" due to its original brick surface.

Memorable Moments

Throughout its history, the Brickyard 400 has provided fans with unforgettable moments.

6. Dale Earnhardt won the race in 1995, famously saying, "I finally kissed the bricks," after his victory.
7. In 2000, Bobby Labonte won the race and went on to win the NASCAR Cup Series Championship that same year.
8. Tony Stewart, an Indiana native, won the Brickyard 400 in 2005 and 2007, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
9. The 2008 race was marred by tire issues, leading to multiple cautions and a controversial finish.
10. Jimmie Johnson has the most Brickyard 400 wins, with four victories (2006, 2008, 2009, 2012).

Records and Achievements

The Brickyard 400 has seen numerous records set and broken over the years.

11. Jeff Gordon holds the record for the most top-five finishes at the Brickyard 400, with 11.
12. Kevin Harvick set the fastest qualifying lap in 2014, with a speed of 188.889 mph.
13. The longest Brickyard 400 took place in 2004, lasting 3 hours, 55 minutes, and 15 seconds.
14. The closest margin of victory was in 2004 when Jeff Gordon beat Dale Jarrett by just 0.229 seconds.
15. The race has been won from the pole position seven times, most recently by Kyle Busch in 2016.

Unique Aspects

Several unique aspects make the Brickyard 400 stand out in the NASCAR calendar.

16. The winner of the Brickyard 400 traditionally kisses the yard of bricks at the start/finish line.
17. The race is one of the few NASCAR events held on a track primarily used for open-wheel racing.
18. The Brickyard 400 is part of the Crown Jewel races in NASCAR, along with the Daytona 500, Coca-Cola 600, and Southern 500.
19. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the largest sports venue in the world, with a capacity of over 250,000.
20. The track's 2.5-mile rectangular oval shape is unique in NASCAR, providing a different challenge for drivers.

Fan Experience

Fans play a significant role in the atmosphere and excitement of the Brickyard 400.

21. The race is known for its festive atmosphere, with fans camping out and tailgating for days leading up to the event.
22. The Brickyard 400 has a tradition of military flyovers and patriotic displays before the race.
23. Fans often participate in the "Kiss the Bricks" tradition, taking photos at the start/finish line.
24. The race weekend includes concerts, autograph sessions, and other fan-friendly activities.
25. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum offers fans a chance to explore the history of the track and the Brickyard 400.

Impact on NASCAR

The Brickyard 400 has had a significant impact on NASCAR and its drivers.

26. Winning the Brickyard 400 is considered one of the highest honors in NASCAR, often compared to winning the Daytona 500.
27. The race has helped elevate the careers of many drivers, providing them with a platform to showcase their talent.
28. The Brickyard 400 has contributed to the growth of NASCAR's popularity in the Midwest.
29. The race has seen numerous sponsorships and partnerships, highlighting its importance in the NASCAR calendar.
30. The Brickyard 400 has been a testing ground for new technologies and innovations in NASCAR.

Recent Changes

The Brickyard 400 has evolved over the years, with recent changes adding new dimensions to the race.

31. In 2020, the race was moved to the Fourth of July weekend, adding a patriotic flair to the event.
32. The 2021 race saw a shift to the road course layout of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, providing a new challenge for drivers.
33. The race has seen increased television viewership, with fans tuning in from around the world.
34. The Brickyard 400 continues to attract top-tier drivers from various racing disciplines.
35. The future of the Brickyard 400 looks bright, with ongoing improvements to the track and fan experience ensuring its place as a NASCAR classic.

The Final Lap

The Brickyard 400 has carved out a unique spot in NASCAR history. From its debut in 1994, this race has seen thrilling finishes, legendary drivers, and unforgettable moments. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway itself, with its rich heritage, adds a layer of prestige to the event. Whether you're a die-hard racing fan or new to the sport, the Brickyard 400 offers something special. Its blend of tradition, speed, and excitement keeps fans coming back year after year. As the engines roar and the cars zoom past the iconic bricks, the Brickyard 400 continues to be a must-watch spectacle. So, next time you hear those engines revving, remember the history and passion behind each lap. The Brickyard 400 isn't just a race; it's a celebration of motorsport excellence.