Phoenix International Raceway

Phoenix Raceway stands as one of America's most distinctive motorsport venues, nestled in the desert landscape of Avondale, Arizona, approximately 20 miles west of Phoenix. The 1-mile asphalt track has been a cornerstone of American racing since 1964, hosting some of the most prestigious events in motorsports while evolving to meet the changing needs of the sport and its fans.

Origins and Early History

Phoenix Raceway opened in 1964, designed by amateur sports car racer and Scottsdale builder Richard Hogue. The original vision positioned the track as the "Indianapolis of the West," aiming to create a premier destination for open-wheel racing in the western United States. The inaugural event saw Davey MacDonald win an open sports car race on the facility's road course in February 1964. A.J. Foyt claimed victory in the first oval track event, a 100-mile USAC race held in March of the same year. The venue has operated under several names throughout its history, including FasTrack International Speedway (1973-1976) and ISM Raceway (2018-2020), before returning to its current name, Phoenix Raceway.

Track Configuration and Technical Specifications

The circuit features a unique "dogleg" configuration that sets it apart from other ovals on the NASCAR calendar. This 1-mile (1.609 km) low-banked tri-oval includes: - Distinctive banking that varies from 9-11 degrees in Turns 1 and 2 as well as Turns 3 and 4 - A 9-degree banked frontstretch measuring 1,551 feet - A 3-degree banked backstretch extending 1,179 feet - The signature "dogleg" on the backstretch between Turns 2 and 3, originally incorporated to accommodate the road course The facility now seats 42,000 spectators after various renovations and improvements.

Racing Heritage

Phoenix Raceway boasts a rich racing history across multiple disciplines. Alan Kulwicki won the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race in 1988, famously celebrating with the first "Polish Victory Lap" by driving in the opposite direction. Before NASCAR's arrival, the track had already established itself as an open-wheel racing destination, hosting 58 IndyCar races with victories claimed by legends like A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, and members of the Unser family. The track has hosted numerous racing series including USAC, CART, IMSA GT Championship, and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The Copper World Classic, a multi-division race weekend, was a staple event from 1977 to 2009. In 2020, Phoenix Raceway became the host of NASCAR Championship Weekend, cementing its status as one of the most important venues in American motorsport.

Distinctive Features and Facts

The circuit's desert setting creates unique racing conditions, with high temperatures often making the track surface slippery and challenging. "Snake wranglers" are employed to remove rattlesnakes from the facility, highlighting its authentic desert location at the foothills of the Estrella Mountains. Monument Hill, the elevated area alongside what were formerly turns 3 and 4, offers spectators a popular viewing spot with a panoramic perspective of the action. Kevin Harvick holds the record for most wins at the track with 9 victories.

Modern Developments

A major renovation in 2017 transformed the facility, relocating the start/finish line before the dogleg and reconfiguring pit road to enhance competition and spectator experience. The infield road course was eliminated during earlier remodeling in 2011, focusing the venue entirely on oval racing. Today, Phoenix Raceway stands as one of NASCAR's premier facilities and hosts the season-ending championship races for all three national series.