Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway: A Legacy of Speed in Brownsburg, Indiana

Proving grounds for the quarter-mile legends and rising stars

Just 10 miles west of downtown Indianapolis, in the motorsports-rich town of Brownsburg, Indiana, sits one of the most historic racing venues in the United States—Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway. This multi-faceted motorsports complex has been a staple in American racing since its inception in 1960, hosting some of the most prestigious events in drag racing, stock car racing, and open-wheel competition.

A Vision Fueled by Passion and Investment

The origins of Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway trace back to 1958 when 15 Indianapolis-area businessmen pooled together $5,000 each, raising $75,000 to fund the construction of a premier racing facility. Their vision was ambitious: to develop a 15-turn road course that incorporated a quarter-mile drag strip, utilizing the long straightaway section of the circuit for both road racing and drag racing.

During the initial construction phase, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) played a crucial role in shaping the drag strip, recognizing its potential as a premier venue for top-tier drag racing. Over time, the facility evolved, and while the 2.5-mile road course is no longer in use, the 4,400-foot drag strip remains its most iconic feature.

Track Features: A Versatile Motorsports Playground

The Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway complex is home to three distinct racing surfaces:

• 0.686-Mile Oval Track – A short track that has hosted a variety of stock car and open-wheel series, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, ARCA Menards Series, and USAC events.
• 2.5-Mile Road Course (No longer in use) – Initially designed for road racing but later phased out.
• 4,400-Foot Drag Strip – The crown jewel of the facility, famous for hosting the NHRA U.S. Nationals, the biggest and most prestigious drag racing event in the world.

The NHRA U.S. Nationals: The Drag Racing Super Bowl

Each Labor Day weekend, the NHRA U.S. Nationals descends upon Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway, drawing the fastest drag racers from around the globe. First held at the track in 1961, the U.S. Nationals—often called "The Big Go"—is the longest-running and most prestigious event on the NHRA calendar. Drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle divisions battle it out for a chance to cement their names in drag racing history.

With speeds exceeding 330 mph, the Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway drag strip is a proving ground for both legends and rising stars. It is here that records are broken, championships are defined, and careers are made.

A Home for Diverse Motorsports

While NHRA dominates the spotlight, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway is also a prime destination for stock car and open-wheel racing. The facility hosts events from:

• NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series – The nation's top pickup truck racing series, bringing high-speed action to the short oval.
• ARCA Menards Series – A stepping stone for drivers aspiring to reach NASCAR's national ranks.
• United States Auto Club (USAC) – Showcasing grassroots short-track racing with sprint cars, midgets, and silver crown cars.

Preserving a Legacy of Speed

For over six decades, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway has remained a cornerstone of American motorsports. Whether it's the thunderous roar of dragsters launching down the strip, stock cars battling on the oval, or the rich history that continues to shape its future, this Brownsburg-based track stands as a testament to racing passion, innovation, and competition.

As the NHRA U.S. Nationals and other premier events continue to thrive at this legendary venue, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway remains one of the most cherished motorsports destinations in the country.