NASCAR will go on-track at Richmond International Raceway for the first time in 2008 this Monday and Tuesday (March 24-25) for an official NASCAR Nationwide Series test session. America's Premier Short Track is one of just four tracks—and the only short track—that will be permitted to host official NASCAR Nationwide Series (formerly known as the NASCAR Busch Series) tests this season.

Richmond International Raceway continues its longstanding policy of allowing fans to watch testing from the grandstands free of charge for the 2008 NASCAR Nationwide Series test sessions. With many of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers also running in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, fans can expect to see many of their favorite drivers from both series at America's Premier Short Track.

Many of the drivers participating are running double-duty in both the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup Series. Some of the drivers expected to test during the two days are: Denny Hamlin, Kyle Busch, Sam Hornish Jr., Dario Franchitti, Carl Edwards, Clint Bowyer, Matt Kenseth and Brad Keselowski.

"We encourage all of our fans to come out for both days of testing next week to see their favorite NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series drivers turn laps in preparation for the May 2-3 NASCAR doubleheader at America's Premier Short Track," said Fritz.

NASCAR instituted the track testing policy in 2006, pre-setting a schedule for when and where NASCAR tests are to be conducted. The scheduled tests are the only opportunities teams will have to test at each series' tracks. The policy was implemented to serve as an aid to maintain better overall competitive balance for the teams and contain costs.

The 2008 season opener at Richmond International Raceway is just around the corner when NASCAR returns to America's Premier Short Track May 2-3. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will feature some hardcore beating and banging under the lights in the Crown Royal Presents The Dan Lowry 400 race on Saturday, May 3. Tickets start at $80 and can be purchased by calling 866-455-7223 or clicking here. The weekend begins Friday, May 2 with the NASCAR Nationwide Series 250 race, as well as Wawa Pole Qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Friday's tickets are $45 (reserved) and $35 (general admission) in advance. Children 12 and under are admitted free in general admission sections with a ticketed adult on Friday night only. Tickets can be purchased by calling 866-455-7223 or clicking here.