Mid Ohio Sports Car Course

The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course stands as one of America's premier road racing facilities, nestled in the rolling countryside near Lexington, Ohio. Since opening in 1962, this challenging circuit has tested the skills of world-class drivers across multiple racing disciplines. The 330-acre facility combines technical complexity with natural terrain features, creating a demanding yet beloved venue that has become a cornerstone of American motorsport.

Track Configuration and Technical Specifications

Mid-Ohio offers two primary track configurations. The original layout measures 2.40 miles (3.86 km) with 15 turns, while the modified version spans 2.258 miles (3.634 km) with 13 turns by bypassing the chicane. The FIA Grade Two circuit features significant elevation changes throughout its layout, with the racing surface having undergone major repaving projects in 1990 and 2006. The back straight allows speeds approaching 200 mph (320 km/h), contrasting sharply with the technical sections that demand precision and patience.

Signature Track Sections

Several distinctive sections define Mid-Ohio's character. "Thunder Valley" presents a challenging downhill straight that tests driver nerve. The "Madness" section consists of a roller-coaster series of esses requiring precise car placement. The "Keyhole" hairpin turn provides a critical overtaking opportunity, while the "Carousel" - a near-360-degree turn - examines both mechanical grip and driver commitment. These varied elements combine to make Mid-Ohio one of the most balanced road courses in the United States.

Historical Development

Les Griebling and local Mansfield businessmen founded the track in 1962, initially as a 16-turn clockwise circuit. After its first year, they removed the "Oak Tree Bend" section for being excessively slow. The facility underwent significant modernization in 1982 when Jim Trueman, founder of Red Roof Inns, purchased the property. In March 2011, Green Savoree Racing Promotions acquired ownership, continuing the circuit's development while maintaining its classic character.

Racing Heritage

Mid-Ohio boasts an impressive racing pedigree, hosting its first major event with the United States Road Racing Championship in 1963. Since then, virtually every major American road racing series has competed at the circuit, including CART/Champ Car (starting in 1980), IMSA GT Championship, Grand-Am, American Le Mans Series, IndyCar, NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and Trans-Am. The Sports Car Club of America held its prestigious National Championship Runoffs at Mid-Ohio for 12 consecutive years (1994-2005).

Modern Facilities and Events

The facility now features grandstand seating for 12,000 spectators, with open areas that can accommodate over 75,000 fans. Strategic observation mounds give spectators excellent vantage points around the circuit. Current infrastructure includes garage facilities, a media center, hospitality suites, and an operations tower. Annual headline events include the Honda Indy 200 (IndyCar), Sports Car Challenge (IMSA), O'Reilly Auto Parts 150 (NASCAR Trucks), and the Permco Vintage Grand Prix. The circuit also houses The Mid-Ohio School, which offers specialized driving and motorcycle riding instruction programs. Mid-Ohio remains a true driver's circuit that rewards technical skill and bravery. Its combination of high-speed straights, technical corners, and elevation changes continues to challenge competitors while providing spectators with thrilling racing action across multiple motorsport disciplines.