Road America

Road America stands as one of the most iconic racing circuits in the United States, nestled in the rolling hills near Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. This historic track has thrilled racing fans and challenged drivers since its opening on September 10, 1955. Located midway between Milwaukee and Green Bay, the circuit sits on 640 acres of Wisconsin's beautiful Kettle Moraine region, earning its nickname "America's National Park of Speed" for its park-like setting and exciting racing action.

Track Layout and Technical Features

The 4.048-mile (6.515 km) asphalt circuit features 14 turns and remains one of the few major road courses in the world that maintains its original configuration. The track's layout takes full advantage of the natural terrain, creating significant elevation changes that test drivers' skills. The long front stretch allows speeds approaching 200 mph before drivers must brake hard for the first turn. Several sections of Road America have become famous in racing circles. "The Kink" on the backside presents drivers with a high-speed challenge that separates the brave from the cautious. Turns 5 and 8 feature tight, downhill braking zones, while Turn 6 is particularly difficult due to its blind apex after an uphill straight. The "Carousel" (Turns 9 and 10) forms a sweeping constant-radius turn that requires precise driving. "Canada Corner" (Turn 12) sits at the end of a long straight and creates an excellent overtaking opportunity.

Rich Racing History

Road America's story began on the public roads around Elkhart Lake in the late 1940s. After safety concerns prompted a move to a dedicated facility, local civil engineer Cliff Tufte designed the current circuit. Since its first race weekend in September 1955, the track has hosted virtually every major racing series in North America. The circuit has welcomed IndyCar, IMSA SportsCar Championship, NASCAR, SCCA events, the Trans-Am Series, MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, and many others. Several famous drivers scored their first career victories at Road America, including Emerson Fittipaldi, Jacques Villeneuve, and Héctor Rebaque.

Notable Events and Features

The track hosts over 400 events annually, including nine major race weekends open to the public. Key events include the IndyCar Grand Prix of Road America, IMSA SportsCar Championship's Road Race Showcase, and the historic June Sprints, which has run for over 50 years under the SCCA Chicago Region's organization. The WeatherTech International Challenge with Brian Redman stands as one of America's largest vintage racing events, drawing classic race cars from around the world. For motorcycle enthusiasts, MotoAmerica brings top-level Superbike racing to the circuit.

Spectator Experience

Road America offers a unique spectator experience with open seating throughout the grounds. Fans can move freely around the circuit, finding favorite viewing spots at any of the 14 turns. The track's hillside seating areas can accommodate over 150,000 spectators. A network of tunnels and bridges helps visitors access different parts of the facility. The circuit also features the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex for karting, motorcycle and advanced driving schools, and upgraded facilities while still maintaining its classic character as one of America's most beloved and challenging road racing circuits.