Road Atlanta

Road Atlanta stands as one of North America's premier racing circuits, nestled in the rolling hills of Braselton, Georgia, about 35 miles north of Atlanta. This 2.54-mile permanent road course combines technical challenges with natural beauty, making it a favorite among drivers and spectators alike. Since opening in 1970, the track has hosted numerous world-class racing events, with the Petit Le Mans endurance race serving as its crown jewel competition.

Circuit Layout and Technical Specifications

The Road Atlanta circuit features 12 distinct turns across its 2.54-mile (4.088 km) length. The track holds FIA Grade 2 certification and is known for its significant elevation changes and technical complexity. Drivers face a challenging natural terrain course with several signature sections. The Esses (Turns 3-5) demand precise car control as drivers navigate rapid directional changes while managing the undulating surface. Turn 12 presents another notable challenge—a dramatic downhill diving turn that tests driver commitment and vehicle setup. The circuit's layout rewards technical skill and bravery in equal measure.

Historical Development

Construction of Road Atlanta began in 1969, with crews completing the circuit in just six months—an impressive achievement for a track of its complexity. The inaugural race took place on September 13, 1970, featuring Can-Am series competition. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the track hosted major series including Formula 5000, IMSA Camel GT, and Trans-Am. The SCCA National Championship Runoffs called Road Atlanta home from 1970 to 1993, cementing its status in American motorsport. A significant chapter in the track's history came in the late 1990s when entrepreneur Don Panoz purchased the facility. Panoz implemented comprehensive modernization efforts, including track modifications to meet FIA standards. In 2012, NASCAR acquired the circuit through IMSA Holdings, LLC, continuing its development as a world-class venue.

Petit Le Mans

Don Panoz founded the Petit Le Mans in 1998 as an American counterpart to the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans. This endurance race initially ran for 1,000 miles or 10 hours, whichever came first. Since 2014, it has operated as a timed 10-hour event. The race features multiple classes competing simultaneously, including high-tech prototypes and production-based grand touring cars. Petit Le Mans quickly established itself as a premier endurance racing event. It served as the flagship race for the American Le Mans Series and now holds a prominent position in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship calendar. Italian driver Rinaldo Capello holds the record for most wins with five victories. Class winners once received automatic invitations to the following year's 24 Hours of Le Mans, though this practice ended in 2012.

Modern Racing Significance

Today, Road Atlanta hosts a diverse racing calendar. Major events include the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, MotoAmerica motorcycle racing, Trans-Am Series, Drift Atlanta, and The Mitty historic races. The 750-acre facility also serves as a venue for racing schools, corporate events, and team testing sessions. The track maintains a family-friendly atmosphere, with children 12 and under receiving free admission to many events, helping cultivate the next generation of racing enthusiasts in this historic American racing venue.