HISTORY OF THE DOVER MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Dover Motor Speedway, affectionately known as the "Monster Mile," is one of NASCAR’s most iconic and enduring venues. Located in Dover, Delaware, this one-mile oval has been a key part of American motorsports for over half a century, hosting countless historic moments, legendary drivers, and unforgettable races.

Origins and construction
The idea for a speedway in Dover was conceived in the 1960s by Melvin L. Joseph, a Delaware businessman and construction magnate with a passion for racing. He envisioned a top-tier facility on the East Coast that could rival others around the country. Construction on the track began in 1966, and the facility officially opened in 1969 under the name Dover Downs International Speedway. What set Dover apart from the beginning was its size – a full mile in length, larger than many short tracks, but more intimate and intense than superspeedways.

From the start, Dover was unique. It featured high banking – 24 degrees in the turns and 9 degrees on the straights – and a relatively narrow racing surface that created fast, aggressive racing. Its concrete grandstands and proximity to major cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. helped it attract a strong fan base.

Early years
The very first NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover took place on July 6, 1969. Richard Petty, one of the sport’s all-time greats, won the inaugural event in dominant fashion, setting the tone for a track that would soon become known for rewarding greatness and punishing mistakes.

Through the 1970s and 1980s, Dover continued to build its reputation as a tough but fair racetrack. Its one-mile layout and steep banking made it a driver’s track – one where skill, bravery, and stamina were all tested. It also started to gain notoriety for its physically demanding nature; long green-flag runs and tight racing meant drivers had to stay focused for all 400 laps (and later 500 laps).

The concrete era
One of the most defining changes in the track’s history came in 1995, when Dover became the first NASCAR track to switch from an asphalt racing surface to concrete. The decision, controversial at the time, was driven by the need for durability. Dover’s layout, combined with the region’s variable weather, meant the asphalt often broke down and required frequent repairs. Concrete provided a longer-lasting alternative that also changed the character of the racing.

This transformation further cemented Dover’s reputation as one of the most demanding tracks on the NASCAR calendar. The grip level changed, the tire wear evolved, and teams had to adjust their setups accordingly. The track’s nickname – "The Monster Mile" – became even more fitting. To symbolize this, Dover later unveiled its now-famous mascot, "Miles the Monster," a towering red-eyed statue that holds a full-size car in one hand and stands guard outside the speedway.

Expansion and ownership changes
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Dover Downs expanded significantly. The venue once held seating for over 135,000 fans, making it one of the largest venues in the Mid-Atlantic region. The growth reflected NASCAR’s boom during this period, as the sport reached new levels of national popularity.

In 2002, the racing and casino operations at the facility were split. The racetrack became part of a new entity – Dover Motorsports, Inc. – and was renamed Dover International Speedway. This change allowed the racing operations to focus entirely on motorsport events while the adjacent casino business evolved separately.

Dover also invested in improving the fan experience. Additions included upgraded grandstands, improved concessions, infield access upgrades, and hospitality areas. The track also hosted other racing series, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series, the NASCAR Truck Series, the IndyCar Series (briefly in 1998–1999), and ARCA.

The Jimmie Johnson era and notable moments
Dover has been the site of countless iconic races and dramatic moments. Few drivers have dominated the Monster Mile quite like Jimmie Johnson. Between 2002 and 2017, Johnson won 11 Cup Series races at Dover, setting a record for the most victories by any driver at the track. His success at Dover helped define his seven-championship legacy and made him a fan favorite at the venue.

Other legendary performances include Mark Martin’s consistent success during the 1990s and early 2000s, Jeff Gordon’s wins during the height of his career, and Dale Earnhardt’s battles in the late '80s and early '90s. Dover also played a critical role in many NASCAR Playoff scenarios, especially when it held the elimination race for the Round of 16 in the postseason.

Modern era
In 2021, Speedway Motorsports acquired Dover Motorsports, Inc., bringing Dover Motor Speedway under the same umbrella as tracks like Charlotte, Bristol, and Sonoma. The acquisition promised new investment, fan-focused improvements, and a continued commitment to high-quality racing.

In 2022, the track was rebranded as Dover Motor Speedway, dropping the "International" moniker. This new chapter ushered in digital enhancements, improved amenities, and a renewed focus on engaging the next generation of NASCAR fans.

Legacy
Dover Motor Speedway remains one of the toughest and most respected tracks in NASCAR. With its intimidating layout, intense speeds, and rich history, it continues to challenge the sport’s best drivers year after year. Known for its passionate fans, iconic victories, and dramatic moments, the Monster Mile is a symbol of NASCAR’s roots–and its future.