Wednesday, February 1, 2023

L.A. Memorial Coliseum is prepared for NASCAR’s return


The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum has been a familiar name in sports for nearly 100 years, having been home to two Olympic Games, two NFL Super Bowls, the 1959 World Series and several collegiate and professional teams such as the USC Trojans, UCLA Bruins, the Los Angeles Rams, the Raiders and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

It has also hosted many memorable and historic events that include the first ever Papal Mass by John Paul II in 1987, Nelson Mandela’s return to the United States and sold-out concerts by big names like the Rolling Stones and Metallica.

Its size and location, combined with its history, has made it iconic, even earning a State and Federal Historic Landmark title in 1984.

Last season, NASCAR added its name to the prestigious list of sports entities that have competed at the historic hallowed grounds in L.A. and this season, looks to return to turn up the excitement even more. Just like last year, the Coliseum has been transformed from its typically gold and USC cardinal-painted football field to a quarter-mile short track where drivers will battle it out in a unique exhibition-style event to open up the 2023 season.

“With more than four million viewers, and really breaking through in a pop culture mecca like Los Angeles, the inaugural Clash at the Coliseum did everything it was intended to do and then some,” said Bill Wanger, FOX Sports EVP, Head of Programming and Scheduling. “It energized the sport, delivered new eyeballs and kicked off the season in grand fashion. We can’t wait to do it all again in 2023.”

Currently, 36 different drivers are entered to compete for the win this weekend, including last season’s victor Team Penske’s Joey Logano. Logano will look to defend his win this weekend and become just the fifth driver all-time and the first since 2010 to win consecutive Clash races; joining Kevin Harvick (2009-10), Tony Stewart (2000-01), Ken Schrader (1990-91) and Neil Bonnett (1983-84). 

This weekend’s Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum will be on Sunday, Feb. 5 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. 


 

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