Iowa Speedway: The Fast Track to Racing Excitement

Iowa Speedway: The Fast Track to Racing Excitement

Tracks

A midwest short track known for exciting on track action

Nestled in the heart of Newton, Iowa, Iowa Speedway is one of the most exciting short tracks in American motorsports. This 7/8-mile D-shaped oval has become a fan favorite for its high-speed thrills, progressive banking, and action-packed racing. Designed with input from NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace, the track has hosted major events, including the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, and the IndyCar Series.

A Track Built for Speed and Excitement

Iowa Speedway features a progressive banking design, making it unique among short tracks. The turns have banking that ranges from 12 to 14 degrees, allowing for multiple racing lines and side-by-side competition. The frontstretch is banked at 10 degrees, while the backstretch flattens out at just 4 degrees, creating a dynamic challenge for drivers. This design produces some of the most intense racing in the sport, making Iowa Speedway a must-watch venue for fans and competitors alike.

While the 7/8-mile oval is the centerpiece of the facility, Iowa Speedway also boasts a road course with multiple layouts, adding versatility to its racing calendar. This feature makes it an attractive option for various forms of motorsports, including sports car racing and track day events.

A History of High-Profile Races

Since opening in 2006, Iowa Speedway has earned a reputation as one of the premier short tracks in the country. It has hosted a variety of major racing series, including:

  • NASCAR Cup Series – The premier division of NASCAR made its long-awaited debut at Iowa Speedway in 2024, bringing the biggest names in stock car racing to Newton.
  • NASCAR Xfinity Series – A longtime staple at the track, Xfinity races at Iowa have provided some of the most thrilling finishes in series history.
  • IndyCar Series – One of the most anticipated events at Iowa Speedway, IndyCar races at the track have been a staple since 2007, offering high-speed, wheel-to-wheel action.

Beyond its major race weekends, Iowa Speedway has also been a key venue for driver development, helping young talent hone their skills before moving up to NASCAR and IndyCar’s biggest stages.

A Fan-Favorite Destination

Iowa Speedway is known for its intimate fan experience, providing excellent sightlines, easy access to the action, and a family-friendly atmosphere. With its location in Newton, just outside of Des Moines, the track draws fans from across the Midwest who come to enjoy its electric race-day environment.

From its thrilling short-track battles to its growing legacy in American motorsports, Iowa Speedway continues to be a standout venue in the racing world. Whether it's stock cars or open-wheel machines flying around its high-banked turns, the speedway remains a cornerstone of racing excitement in the Midwest.