A new chapter for the Bandimere family and Colorado drag racing has officially begun. In a heartfelt video message released this week, John Bandimere Jr. announced that the family has closed on a 114-acre parcel of land in Weld County, near Hudson, Colorado. The purchase represents the first major step toward building a new facility following the closure of the original Bandimere Speedway along the Hogback after 65 years of operation.
“This has not been an easy undertaking, nor has it been a quick process,” said Bandimere. “Earlier this week, my family, along with a trusted group of partners and associates, were able to close on the first parcel of land. This is the first piece in a complex puzzle.”
The land, previously owned by Rocky’s Autos Inc., is expected to become the site of the new Bandimere Speedway, though Bandimere cautioned that zoning and annexation efforts must still unfold before construction can begin. Timelines for those steps remain uncertain, but the family pledged to keep the public informed as developments continue.
Since ceasing operations in Morrison in 2023, the Bandimere family has remained committed to preserving the legacy of auto racing started by John Bandimere Sr. and his wife, Lorraine, in 1958. The announcement marks a tangible step forward in that mission.
Bandimere closed the message with words of gratitude and a personal prayer for the racing community, sponsors, staff, and Weld County leaders involved in the next phase.
“You have been praying for us, and we want you to know how much we appreciate it,” he said. “It does make a difference, trust me.”
The Bandimere family’s public commitment to rebuilding a new dragstrip has sparked widespread support across the racing community, which has followed their journey closely since the track’s final event in October 2023. As the process moves forward, racers and fans alike remain hopeful that a new facility will soon rise to carry on the Bandimere name in Colorado motorsports.
This story was originally published on May 23, 2025. 
