Virginia International Raceway

Virginia International Raceway (VIR) stands as one of North America's premier road racing facilities, nestled in the rolling hills of Alton, Virginia, near the North Carolina border. This historic circuit combines challenging terrain with modern amenities, earning respect from drivers worldwide for its technical difficulty and natural beauty. Since its revival in 2000, VIR has transformed from an abandoned track to a complete motorsport resort, offering racing enthusiasts and professionals a diverse racing experience across multiple circuit configurations.

A Legacy Reborn

VIR's story began in 1955 when a group of North Carolina racing enthusiasts developed the concept for a road racing circuit. The track officially opened on August 3, 1957, as one of the longest permanent road racing facilities of its time at 3.27 miles. Early success brought racing legends like Carroll Shelby, who won the inaugural race in a Maserati 450S and famously declared, "One lap at VIR equals a hundred at Watkins Glen." Financial difficulties and the 1973 fuel crisis forced VIR to close in October 1974. The property returned to farmland for nearly 25 years until Harvey Siegel purchased it in 1998. After extensive restoration, VIR reopened in March 2000 as America's first "Motorsport Resort," preserving the original track layout while adding modern safety features and amenities.

Track Configurations and Technical Aspects

The VIR facility features multiple track configurations, with the Full Course serving as the signature 3.27-mile (5.26 km) layout with 17 turns. This asphalt circuit runs clockwise and includes two long straights of 3,000 and 4,000 feet. Drivers face a substantial 130-foot elevation change throughout the lap. Additional layouts include: - North Course: 2.25 miles (3.62 km) - South Course: 1.65 miles (2.65 km) - Patriot Course: 1.1 miles (1.77 km), running counter-clockwise - Grand East Course: 4.2 miles (6.76 km) with 25 turns - Grand West Course: 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with 28 turns The track width ranges from 30 to 36 feet, and the circuit holds an FIA Grade 2 classification.

Distinctive Circuit Features

VIR follows natural terrain, creating a dynamic driving experience with blind crests and sweeping corners. The track's signature feature was originally a hairpin turn around a large oak tree (which fell in 2013 after lightning struck it). The section retains the name "Oak Tree Turn" in honor of this landmark. The circuit's undulating character tests drivers with technical sections coupled with high-speed straights where top speeds exceed 170 mph in GT cars. The track's design rewards precision and bravery, making it a favorite among drivers who appreciate a challenge.

Racing Heritage

Throughout its history, VIR has hosted numerous prestigious racing series. In its early years, the track featured SCCA National Sports Car Championship events and the fourth-ever SCCA Trans-Am race in 1966. Current major events include the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, GT World Challenge America, MotoAmerica, and Trans-Am Series races. The Michelin GT Challenge at VIR serves as a highlight on the annual racing calendar, drawing top teams and manufacturers. Beyond professional racing, VIR operates on a "country club" model with memberships available. The facility includes hotels, restaurants, karting tracks, and shooting ranges. It also houses the Virginia Motorsports Technology Park, where automotive research and development occurs in partnership with Virginia Tech.