If you build it, will they come ?

The Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS) now hosts only one NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event each season due to poor attendance - the fans in that market didn't support, to the extent necessary, two dates each year.  One would think that with only one race, tickets would be at a premium, yet there was a plethora of empty seats on Saturday night.

Why?

Perhaps it was the fact that Saturday was the opening weekend of the college football season, which I understand is larger than life itself in the south.  Perhaps it was because this was a holiday weekend and people were engaged with friends and family.  Perhaps it was apathy for the sport by the local Atlanta media.  I don't have the answer.  Unfortunately, I think Atlanta has proven that they don't deserve a Cup date.

That's right - they don't deserve a Cup date.

With two weeks to go until the Chase for the Cup field is set, and with 18 drivers in mathematical contention to fill the remaining four spots and two alternate spots, what's not to love?  Saturday night, under the lights, drama, strategy, excitement, action, rivalries... if that isn't enough for 'ya, I don't know what is.

The fans who support Iowa Speedway in Newton, IA would know.  The 2014 schedule isn't finalized yet...

Discuss.