Freedom Factory Will Host 2027 CARS Tour Opener
The zMAX CARS Tour travels to Bradenton on February 6, 2027, for its 12th season debut.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Motorsports
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The zMAX CARS Tour will kick off its 12th season of operation at the Freedom Factory in Bradenton, Florida, on February 6, 2027. This event represents the southernmost race in the history of the series.
Why it matters
The race brings major regional racing competition to a historic Florida facility that has undergone significant transformation in recent years. It marks a strategic expansion of the tour's geographic footprint into the Southeast.
The event will take place on the facility's 3/8-mile layout. This 12th season opener follows a previous record for the tour's southernmost point set by a 2025 race at Cordele Motor Speedway.
The players
Cleetus McFarland
He is the owner of the Freedom Factory and a prominent automotive content creator.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.
He is a former professional stock car driver and team owner who is expected to compete in the race.
Kevin Harvick
He is a retired champion stock car driver who is expected to participate in the upcoming season opener.
The details
Drivers are expected to compete in both the Late Model Stock and Pro Late Model divisions on the track, which originally operated as Desoto Speedway. The venue was purchased by Cleetus McFarland in 2020 after the track ceased operations in 2018.
Timeline
1978: Freedom Factory opened under the name Desoto Speedway.
2018: Operations at Desoto Speedway were officially halted.
2020: Cleetus McFarland completed the purchase of the facility.
February 6, 2027: The zMAX CARS Tour launches its 12th season at the track.
Season Trajectory
By moving the season opener to a Florida venue, the tour is significantly expanding its reach into new markets. This shift marks a departure from its traditional geography and aims to capture a broader audience in the Southeast for its 12th season.
Fans should monitor the final entry lists to confirm if high-profile competitors like Cleetus McFarland, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Kevin Harvick will occupy spots in the field. The inclusion of these drivers is expected to influence the competitive balance of the 100-lap feature.
The takeaway
This event highlights the revitalization of the former Desoto Speedway facility under new ownership. Local fans and travelers should prepare for high-level late model competition on a uniquely tight 3/8-mile configuration.
Further reading
For more information on the upcoming racing calendar, visit the Motorsports section.
More information
Find official series updates and event logistics on the zMAX CARS Tour official website.
Live Poll
Would you travel to another state to attend a major regional racing event?
