The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series announced it moved its Independence 50 to Atomic Speedway after Portsmouth Raceway Park announced it would not open for racing in 2025.

In a post to Facebook back in December, Portsmouth Raceway Park announced it would not open in 2025. The track stated, “After 34 years with the best co workers, sponsors, fans and drivers, we have decided not to open in the 2025 season. We will see what the future holds at a later date.”

Portsmouth Raceway Park had been on the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series since 2007 and had hosted 37 races through 2023 including the Dirt Track World Championship season finale from 2011 to 2022.

In a press release, the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series announced it rescheduled the Independence 50 from Portsmouth Raceway Park to Atomic Speedway.

The press release states, “In the wake of Portsmouth Raceway Park announcing it won’t host racing in 2025, the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, Independence 50 will shift to Atomic Speedway.”

Atomic Speedway owner Charlie Vest stated, “We couldn’t be happier to have the opportunity to host another Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series event. We wish the best for the Coleman family and the future of Portsmouth Raceway Park.”

Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Director Rick Schwallie said, “Portsmouth Raceway Park has been a pillar of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series for over a decade. Working with the Coleman family has been a pleasure, and we wish them all the best. While the circumstances are unfortunate, we are grateful to Atomic Speedway for filling the void. We look forward to a great weekend.”

The Independence 50 will pay $25,000 and precedes the Freedom 60 at Muskingum County Speedway on July 5th. It also pays $25,000. The Independence 50 will be the second trip the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series will make to Atomic Speedway. The tour will head to the track for the Buckeye Spring 50 on March 21st as well.