Auto Club Speedway, once a bustling hub for motorsport enthusiasts, has a rich history that spans several decades. Located in Fontana, California, this track was a significant venue for NASCAR and IndyCar races until its closure in 2023. This article explores the journey of Auto Club Speedway from its inception to its eventual demolition, highlighting key events and changes over the years.
Early Beginnings and Construction
The story of Auto Club Speedway began in 1994 when Roger Penske
and Kaiser Steel announced plans to build a racetrack on the site of the former Kaiser Steel Mill in Fontana, California. The construction of the track was a significant undertaking, involving the removal of hazardous waste and the preservation of a historic water tower. The project received support from the local community, who hoped it would rejuvenate the area and increase land values.
Construction officially began on November 22, 1995, and was completed in late 1996. The track, initially named California Speedway, was a 2-mile D-shaped oval designed to host major racing events. It opened its doors to the public on June 20, 1997, with a NASCAR West Series race marking its first official event.
Expansion and Peak Years
Following its successful opening, Auto Club Speedway quickly became a prominent venue for motorsport events. The track hosted annual NASCAR races from 1997 and was also a popular site for open-wheel racing events. In 2004, the speedway added a second NASCAR weekend, and lights were installed to accommodate night races.
The track's facilities expanded over the years, with the addition of skyboxes, a dragstrip, and a multipurpose road course. The main grandstand's capacity was increased to 68,000 seats, and a fanzone was introduced in 2006 to enhance the spectator experience. Despite these improvements, attendance began to decline, leading to the removal of the second NASCAR race in 2011.
Decline and Closure
Despite its initial success, Auto Club Speedway faced challenges in its later years. Attendance continued to drop, and the track struggled to maintain its status as a premier racing venue. In 2023, the decision was made to close the speedway for reconstruction as part of the Next Gen California project. Demolition began in October 2023, with plans to build a smaller short-track oval.
The closure of Auto Club Speedway marked the end of an era for motorsport in Southern California. While the track's legacy lives on, its transformation reflects the changing landscape of racing and the challenges faced by traditional venues in adapting to new demands.
