NASCAR remains open to transforming the Auto Club Speedway site into a short track, but no final decision has been made yet. During a recent statement, the sanctioning body emphasized that the half-mile oval concept remains a leading option but acknowledged that additional time is needed to finalize plans.
“That’s option No. 1,” NASCAR said. “Obviously, we’ve been there for a long time. We still retain enough land to build a half-mile oval if we chose to do that. But we still need some time to sort some things out.”
A Major Shift for the Iconic Speedway
Auto Club Speedway, located in Fontana, California, has been a staple on the NASCAR calendar since its inaugural race in 1997. The track, a two-mile D-shaped oval, has hosted numerous memorable moments, from dramatic finishes to record-breaking speeds. However, in 2023, NASCAR announced plans to sell a large portion of the property, fueling speculation about the track’s future.
Initial reports suggested that a short track would replace the existing oval, aligning with NASCAR’s push to create more exciting, close-quarters racing. However, with the land sale finalized and the original two-mile track dismantled, NASCAR has yet to break ground on the rumored short track, leading to uncertainty about whether it will come to fruition.
What’s Next for NASCAR in Southern California?
While the half-mile oval remains a strong possibility, NASCAR is taking its time to evaluate all options. The organization’s recent comments suggest that logistical, financial, and market considerations are still being assessed.
The delay in finalizing plans has left some fans wondering if NASCAR may explore alternative locations or concepts for racing in Southern California. The success of the Busch Light Clash at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum in recent years has demonstrated NASCAR’s ability to adapt to unconventional venues.
For now, Auto Club Speedway’s future remains in limbo. Whether the site will eventually house a brand-new short track or NASCAR pivots to another plan, one thing is clear: the sport is committed to maintaining a presence in Southern California.
Stay tuned for further updates as NASCAR continues to sort through its options for the historic Auto Club Speedway site.
