Knoxville Raceway adds more to the winner’s share of the Nationals the next two years

LEBANON, Pa.: Knoxville Raceway is home to the Knoxville Nationals, a race that boasts the biggest purse in Sprint Car racing on a yearly basis.

The winner of this year’s event, Kyle Larson, banked $190,000 for his Saturday night victory. As for the four-day total purse, it checked in over a hefty $1,150,000. No wonder 106 drivers entered the pit area for the 2024 extravaganza.

Officials and the 24-person board that oversees the speedway weren’t satisfied. So, they decided to kick in some extra money over the next year to bring the winner’s share to $200,000 by the end of 2026.

“The first-place prize for the 2025 Knoxville Nationals will be $195,000 with plans to raise it to $200,000 for the 65^th running in 2026,” said Eric Arnold, PR and Digital Marketing Manager at the speedway.

“These figures reflect the deep passion and commitment of the Marion County Fair Association and Knoxville Raceway management to making this event an unforgettable experience for both race teams and fans.

“We hope to keep the momentum we have right now after record crowds this year. We look to carry that into 2025-2026 events as we write more exciting chapters in Knoxville Nationals history. Hopefully, we reach our goal of selling out all four nights.”

Adding $5,000 to Saturday’s finale winner each of the next two years makes the Knoxville Nationals the second highest paying Sprint Car race in the country. First on the list is the $250,000 champion’s share doled out at the High Bank Nationals.

Still, when it comes to overall purse, it’s the Nationals. And don’t be surprised if there is more kicked into the purse before next year’s event hits the track.