Auto Club Speedway

Auto Club Speedway, located in Fontana, California, is a prominent motorsports venue known for its high-speed oval racing and versatile track configurations. Opened in 1997, the facility primarily hosts NASCAR events and has become a staple on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar, as well as hosting other racing series such as the IndyCar Series in the past.

Track Layout and Specifications

The Speedway features a 2-mile (3.22 km) D-shaped oval with wide, sweeping turns and progressive banking of 14 degrees in the corners. The front stretch is 3,600 feet long, with 11 degrees of banking, while the backstretch is relatively flat at 3 degrees. This design facilitates high-speed racing and multiple racing grooves, allowing for competitive side-by-side action and strategic drafting.

The track surface is asphalt, and its length and configuration make it one of the fastest ovals on the NASCAR circuit. Typical average lap speeds during race conditions often exceed 180 mph, with qualifying speeds occasionally surpassing 200 mph, underscoring the track’s reputation for speed.

Facilities and Capacity

Auto Club Speedway boasts a seating capacity of approximately 68,000 spectators, with ample amenities including modern grandstands, hospitality suites, and fan zones. The venue also features a road course configuration of 2.0 miles with 13 turns, used primarily for testing and occasional racing events, though it is less prominent than the oval.

Racing Significance

The track has hosted notable NASCAR races such as the Auto Club 400 and the NASCAR Xfinity Series events. Its location in Southern California provides access to a large motorsport fan base, contributing to its popularity. The track’s wide surface and progressive banking often result in exciting races with multiple overtaking opportunities, making it a favorite among drivers and fans alike.

Challenges and Developments

In recent years, Auto Club Speedway has faced challenges including scheduling changes and the need for facility upgrades. Discussions about potential renovations or reconfigurations have been ongoing to enhance racing quality and fan experience.

In summary, Auto Club Speedway remains a key venue in American motorsports, combining high-speed racing with a fan-friendly environment, and continues to play an important role in the NASCAR landscape.

Racing Circuits in United States

• Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
• Barber Motorsports Park
• Biscayne Bay Street Circuit
• Brainerd International Raceway
• Brooklyn Circuit
• Brooklyn Street Circuit
• Buttonwillow Raceway Park
• Chuckwalla Valley Raceway
• Circuit of the Americas
• Daytona International Speedway
• Detroit Grand Prix (IndyCar)
• Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
• Homestead–Miami Speedway
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway
• Kansas Speedway
• Las Vegas Strip Street Circuit
• Lime Rock Park
• Miami International Autodrome
• Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
• Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
• Nashville Street Circuit
• New Jersey Motorsports Park
• NOLA Motorsports Park
• Ozarks International Raceway
• Portland International Raceway
• Road America
• Rockingham Speedway
• Sebring International Raceway
• Sonoma Raceway
• Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch
• Utah Motorsports Campus
• Virginia International Raceway
• Watkins Glen International
• WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
• Willow Springs Raceway