Firebird Motorsports Park: Arizona's Ultimate Racing Destination

Inside Arizona’s Premier Racing Arena

Located in the heart of Arizona’s racing landscape, Firebird Motorsports Park is a premier 450-acre complex in Chandler that has captured the spirit of high-speed competition for over four decades. Hosting world-class events such as NHRA drag races and challenging road course competitions, the track has earned its reputation as one of the top racing venues in the United States.

History

Originally launched in 1983 as Firebird International Raceway, the track quickly established itself as a premier racing venue by hosting key events, including the 1985 NHRA Fallnationals and its sole IMSA GT race in 1987. In December 1992, the facility even attracted international attention when Formula One legend Ayrton Senna tested an IndyCar on its East Course. Despite its early successes, the track faced challenges in 2013 when lease disputes with the Gila River Indian Community led to its closure. However, a new lease agreement enabled a revival, and in February 2014 the venue reopened as Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, complete with renovations and a refreshed identity. More recently, following further operational challenges linked to infrastructure changes, the track’s management opted to reclaim its storied past by rebranding the facility back to Firebird Motorsports Park, thereby reaffirming its enduring legacy in the world of motorsports.

Tracks

Firebird Motorsports Park boasts an impressive range of track layout configurations that cater to a broad spectrum of motorsport disciplines and driver skill levels. The facility’s design reflects decades of racing heritage, featuring dedicated circuits such as the Main Course, West Course, East Course, and the specialized Radford Racing Course. This modular approach allows event organizers to tailor the venue to specific needs—whether hosting a high-speed road course competition, a technical driver training session, or even combining multiple configurations to create an extended, multifaceted circuit.

Drag Racing

At the heart of Firebird Motorsports Park lies its legendary drag strip—a quarter-mile NHRA-sanctioned course that has been the stage for some of the most exhilarating high-octane battles in motorsports. Over the decades, the drag racing events here, including celebrated races like the NHRA Arizona Nationals and Fallnationals, have drawn elite competitors and passionate fans alike. The track’s meticulously maintained surface and cutting-edge facilities create an arena where nitro-powered dragsters, Funny Cars, and Pro Stock vehicles push the limits of speed, delivering adrenaline-fueled moments that capture the raw essence of drag racing.

Road Course Racing

The Main Course serves as the centerpiece of the park, engineered with a balanced mix of high-speed straights and challenging corners. Its design not only tests acceleration, braking, and cornering at competitive speeds but also provides the flexibility to be merged with adjacent layouts for longer, more intricate circuits. This adaptability has made it a favored choice for flagship events, where the track’s demanding yet rewarding nature pushes both racers and their machines to their limits.

Complementing the Main Course are the West and East Courses, each offering distinct driving challenges. The West Course is typically configured with tighter turns and strategic braking zones, emphasizing technical precision and control—ideal for events that demand finesse and calculated maneuvering. Conversely, the East Course is set up to accentuate raw speed, with longer straights and more open sections that allow drivers to fully exploit their vehicles’ acceleration and top-end performance. This duality ensures that the park can accommodate a variety of racing formats and training sessions tailored to different skill sets.

Adding to the venue’s versatility is the Radford Racing Course, a specialized configuration designed for both competitive events and instructional track days. Often used in conjunction with the Main and West Courses, the Radford Racing Course introduces an extra layer of challenge with its unique turns and elevation changes. Together, these interconnected layouts empower Firebird Motorsports Park to adapt seamlessly to the evolving demands of motorsports, making it a premier destination for racers, teams, and fans alike.

Off-Road Racing

Venturing off the paved asphalt, the park also boasts dedicated off road racing facilities that bring a distinct flavor of competition to the venue. The off road courses are engineered for events like off road truck racing, where competitors navigate rugged terrain, sharp inclines, and unpredictable surfaces. These events not only test the durability and agility of the vehicles but also the tactical prowess of the drivers, who must balance speed with careful navigation of the dirt tracks. This segment of Firebird’s offerings stresses the facility’s commitment to delivering diverse and challenging motorsports experiences.

Drifting

Rounding out its motorsports portfolio, Firebird Motorsports Park hosts dynamic drifting events that celebrate the art of controlled oversteer and tire-scorching precision. The dedicated drifting track is designed to provide the perfect balance between grip and slip, allowing drivers to execute smooth, stylish drifts through a series of curves and corners. These events, which attract both seasoned professionals and emerging drift enthusiasts, emphasize not only raw speed but also the artistry and finesse involved in carving out perfect slides. The drifting sessions and competitions add an extra layer of excitement and variety, making Firebird a comprehensive destination for motorsports fans of every discipline.

The Firebird Experience

Firebird Motorsports Park remains a key destination for motorsports fans and drivers alike, offering a wide range of racing events that cater to every interest and skill level. From the raw power of drag racing to the finesse of road course events, Firebird provides a world-class venue for adrenaline-fueled action. Whether you're a racer looking to compete or a spectator enjoying the excitement, Firebird Motorsports Park promises an unforgettable experience.