PIR expects ‘full house’

Phoenix International Raceway president Bryan Sperber said he anticipates a "full house" for Sunday's Checker O'Reilly Auto Parts 500. That might not be the same as being sold out. Given the noticeable number of empty seats at recent Sprint Cup events, however, he's encouraged.

"The economy has an impact on everybody, not just NASCAR," said Sperber. "We're a discretionary spend, and people have to make decisions. I'm expecting to have a full house. We're grateful NASCAR fans have chosen to spend their money with us. This year is tracking a little bit behind last season (when) we sold out probably six weeks before the race. That set the bar pretty high. I can't say for certain it will be a sellout, but if it isn't, it will be very close."