#United States #Las Vegas #Speedway Motorsports #Chris Powell #Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Chris Powell's Remarkable Tenure at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

After nearly three decades of dedicated service, Chris Powell has announced his retirement as the President and General Manager of Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS), a position he has held since 1998. This announcement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in motorsport history, characterized by growth, innovation, and a deep commitment to the local community.

A Visionary Leader

Powell, who joined LVMS during its acquisition by Speedway Motorsports, played a pivotal role in transforming the speedway into a premier motorsport venue. Under his leadership, LVMS not only expanded its racing events but also enhanced the overall fan experience. His initiatives included adding a second NASCAR Cup Series weekend, creating the iconic Neon Garage, and constructing The Strip at LVMS. One of his notable achievements was successfully bringing the Electric Daisy Carnival to Las Vegas, further solidifying the venue’s reputation as a world-class entertainment destination.

Reflecting on his career, Powell expressed gratitude for the support he received from his team, stating, "Our success through the years has not been about one person, but rather the incredible commitment displayed by my teammates through the years."

Impact on the Community

Beyond racing, Powell's leadership extended to community involvement. Through various philanthropic efforts and outreach programs, he ensured that LVMS became a vital part of the Southern Nevada community. His work with Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) resulted in over $5 million in grants to local charities since 1999, significantly impacting the lives of children in need.

In acknowledgment of his dedication to promoting sports in Southern Nevada, Powell was inducted into the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. Exactly a decade later, LVMS became the first racing venue to be inducted into this esteemed hall.

A Fond Farewell

Powell’s retirement, effective March 31, follows the NASCAR race weekend on March 14-16, 2025. As he steps down, he looks forward to spending more time with his family, enjoying life as a grandfather, and cherishing the memories created during his tenure.

"I’m extremely lucky to have been part of such an incredible team and to have worked for visionary leaders like Bruton and Marcus Smith," Powell stated, emphasizing his appreciation for the family atmosphere at Speedway Motorsports.

Marcus Smith, the President and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, praised Powell's contributions, highlighting his passion for motorsports and commitment to excellence. He promised that Powell's legacy would continue to inspire future generations at LVMS.

Looking ahead, Speedway Motorsports is expected to announce Powell's successor in the coming weeks, ensuring that the vision and spirit he cultivated will carry on at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Chris Powell's retirement signifies not just the end of an era but also the continuation of a legacy in motorsports that will resonate for years to come.