Portland International Raceway

Portland International Raceway (PIR) stands as one of the most significant racing circuits in the Pacific Northwest, blending rich historical roots with modern motorsport capabilities. Nestled within Portland city limits, this 268-acre facility offers a unique racing venue that has hosted numerous championship events since its opening in 1961. The track operates under the City of Portland's Parks & Recreation Department and has developed into a self-sustaining facility that serves both professional racers and community events.

Track Design and Specifications

The circuit features a 1.967-mile (3.166 km) road course with 12 turns in its primary configuration. The track surface consists mainly of asphalt, with concrete sections at the "Festival Curves" chicane. This chicane, officially named the "Shelton Chicane" after local racing legend Monte Shelton, creates a technical challenge at the end of the main straight. Drivers can also race on an alternate 1.915-mile (3.082 km) layout without the chicane, reducing the turn count to nine. PIR presents an unusual characteristic among racing circuits: it sits almost completely flat, with elevation changes of only five feet throughout the entire course. The track runs in a clockwise direction and includes a main straight that doubles as a drag racing strip. Following renovations in 2007-2008, the track received FIA-specification curbing and widened turns (4-7), improving racing quality and safety.

Historical Foundations

The raceway's land carries a profound historical significance. Before becoming a racing venue, this area was home to Vanport, Oregon—a city tragically destroyed by flooding in 1948. After the disaster, the abandoned city streets provided a ready-made foundation for the circuit. The first racing event occurred in June 1961 during the Portland Rose Festival, establishing the Rose Cup race that continues as an annual tradition.

Championship Racing Legacy

PIR has hosted numerous premier racing series throughout its history. The IndyCar Series competed here from 1984-2007 before returning in 2018 with the Grand Prix of Portland. The track gained fame for producing two of the closest road course finishes in IndyCar history in 1986 and 1997. NASCAR's presence includes the Xfinity Series Portland 147 race, which began in 2022, and previous Craftsman Truck Series events in 1999-2000. International series have also found a home at PIR. Formula E held its Portland ePrix in 2023 and 2024, bringing electric racing to the venue. The track has also welcomed IMSA sports car racing (1978-2006) and the Trans-Am Series across multiple decades (1972-2009).

Current Operations and Features

Today, PIR operates as a multipurpose facility hosting approximately 550 events annually. The venue attracts about 350,000 visitors each year and generates significant tax revenue for Portland. Beyond motorsports, the circuit accommodates cycling events, auto shows, charity walkathons, and obstacle course events. The track maintains an FIA Grade 2 classification and can accommodate up to 30,000 spectators. Accessibility remains a key advantage, with the MAX Light Rail yellow line providing direct service to the facility. The circuit houses its own racing school, Pro Drive, offering driver training programs. Will Power holds the current track record of 57.2143 seconds, set in a Penske IndyCar in August 2018. Carlos Munoz recorded the fastest race lap at 58.7403 seconds during IndyCar competition that same year. These performances demonstrate the technical challenges and high-speed potential of this historic Portland circuit.