Oval
An oval is a type of racetrack in motorsports that features a closed-loop circuit with turns going in one direction, typically shaped like an elongated circle or ellipse where drivers race counter-clockwise.
Unlike road courses that twist left and right through varied terrain, oval tracks keep things simpler with turns that almost always go in the same direction. Think of it like running laps around a track at school, except these tracks are designed for high-speed racing cars. Oval racing is most popular in the United States, where it's a cornerstone of American motorsport culture.
Despite the name, not all ovals are perfectly oval-shaped. Some tracks look more like rounded rectangles, while others might be egg-shaped or have unique features like tri-oval configurations. A tri-oval, for example, has a slight kink or curve along what would normally be the straightaway, creating three distinct turning areas instead of just two.
One key feature of oval tracks is banking, which means the track surface tilts upward in the turns. This banking works like a wall that helps cars stick to the track at higher speeds, similar to how a cyclist leans into a turn. Some ovals have steep banking that allows incredible speeds, while others have flatter turns that require more careful driving.
Oval tracks come in different sizes, each offering a unique racing experience. Short tracks are less than one mile long and create tight, aggressive racing where drivers are constantly close together. Intermediate tracks measure between one and two miles, with many famous tracks sitting right at 1.5 miles. Superspeedways are the giants of oval racing, stretching two miles or longer, where cars can reach their absolute top speeds.
The surface of an oval can vary too. Many modern ovals are paved with asphalt or concrete, providing smooth, consistent grip. However, dirt track ovals remain popular, especially for sprint cars and modified racing. Dirt racing adds an extra challenge as the track surface changes throughout the race, developing grooves and slick spots.
Famous oval tracks include Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500, and Daytona International Speedway, where NASCAR runs its biggest race. Talladega Superspeedway holds the title as NASCAR's longest oval. Other well-known ovals include Bristol Motor Speedway, known for its steep banking and short length, and Richmond Raceway, a favorite short track.
While oval racing dominates in America with series like NASCAR and IndyCar, a few ovals exist internationally. Twin Ring Motegi in Japan hosts major racing events, while tracks in the Netherlands and Australia also feature oval configurations, though they're far less common than in the United States.