About Knoxville Nationals

The Knoxville Nationals, officially known as the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey's General Store, is an annual sprint car racing event held at Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, Iowa. Nicknamed "The Granddaddy of Them All," it is widely regarded as the most prestigious race in sprint car racing. First held in 1961 at the initiative of promoter Marion Robinson, the event has grown from a one-day affair to a four-day competition held each August, drawing approximately 25,000 fans and over 100 competing teams. The race carries a purse of $1 million, the highest in sprint car racing. Steve Kinser holds the record for most victories with 12 wins, while Donny Schatz holds the record for most consecutive wins with five. The event has been sanctioned by the World of Outlaws since 1978, with some interruptions. Ryan Timms won the 2025 edition, becoming the second youngest winner in event history. Knoxville Raceway is known as the Sprint Car Capital of the World.