Sebring International Raceway

Sebring International Raceway stands as one of North America's most historic and challenging motorsport venues. Located in central Florida, this 3.74-mile (6.02 km) circuit has tested drivers and machines since 1950. The track's unique combination of smooth asphalt and rough concrete sections creates a demanding environment for competitors in the famous 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race and other motorsport events throughout the year.

Historical Roots

The raceway began its life as Hendricks Army Airfield, a World War II training base for B-17 bomber crews. After the war ended, the airfield was transformed into a racing circuit, with the first race held in 1950. The inaugural 12 Hours of Sebring followed on March 15, 1952. The track made history in 1959 when it hosted the first Formula One race in the United States. Much of the original concrete from 1941 remains part of the circuit today, particularly on the main straight, giving Sebring its distinctive character and challenging surface.

Track Layout

Sebring's full circuit spans 3.74 miles and features 17 turns of varying speeds and technical demands. The track offers three configurations: the Full Circuit used for major events, the Short Circuit, and the Club Circuit for smaller competitions and testing. The surface combines asphalt with the original concrete airfield sections, creating the bumpy texture that has become Sebring's trademark. These bumps stress cars and drivers alike, making mechanical reliability as important as speed. The circuit holds an FIA Grade 2 certification, allowing it to host most international racing series except Formula One.

Key Circuit Features

Several sections of Sebring have gained fame among racing fans and drivers. Turn 17, a high-speed right-hander leading onto the front straight, challenges drivers with its bumpy surface and critical racing line. Big Bend offers a fast, sweeping corner that tests driver commitment, while the Hairpin provides a prime overtaking opportunity. The Ulmann Straight serves as the longest flat-out section on the course. Many turns honor early racing teams and drivers who competed at Sebring. Fans gather at the "Green Park" area for some of the best viewing opportunities during race weekends.

The 12 Hours of Sebring

The 12 Hours of Sebring ranks as one of endurance racing's most prestigious events. Racing fans consider it part of the "Triple Crown" of endurance racing alongside the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona. The race format starts during daylight and finishes after dark, creating changing conditions that demand adaptability from teams and drivers. A winning team typically covers about 1,305 miles during the 12-hour period. The event has been part of major racing series including the World Sportscar Championship, IMSA GT Championship, American Le Mans Series, and currently, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Racing Legacy

Sebring remains active more than 300 days per year for racing and testing activities. The mild Florida winter climate makes it an ideal location for teams to test vehicles during the off-season. NASCAR now owns the raceway through its IMSA Holdings subsidiary, ensuring its continued prominence in American motorsport. The track's mix of high-speed sections, technical corners, and punishing surface creates a true test of both machine and driver. This combination has cemented Sebring's reputation as one of racing's most respected and challenging circuits in the world.