Phoenix Raceway: Arizona’s Crown Jewel of Racing

This desert raceway is known to hold some of the largest stock car racing events

Located in Avondale, Arizona, Phoenix Raceway has been a cornerstone of American motorsports since its opening in 1964. Originally designed for open-wheel racing, the track has evolved into one of NASCAR’s most important venues, hosting some of the biggest events in stock car racing. With its unique track layout, rich history, and recent renovations, Phoenix Raceway remains a must-visit destination for racing fans across the country.

A One-of-a-Kind Track Design

Phoenix Raceway is a 1-mile oval, but it’s far from a traditional short track. The track features banking of 9 degrees in turns one and two, 11 degrees in turns three and four, and only 3 degrees on the backstretch. One of the most defining features of the raceway is its dogleg, a sharp kink in the backstretch that provides drivers with a chance to make aggressive, high-risk passes. This layout forces competitors to adapt their driving styles and leads to thrilling, action-packed races.

A Venue for the Biggest Racing Events

Over the years, Phoenix Raceway has hosted a variety of motorsports, from open-wheel to stock car racing. Some of the most notable events held at the track include:

• NASCAR Cup Series – The premier series of NASCAR, featuring some of the biggest names in racing history.
• NASCAR Xfinity Series – The proving ground for future Cup Series stars.
• NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series – A series known for its intense, close-quarters racing.
• IndyCar & CART Series – While NASCAR now dominates Phoenix Raceway’s schedule, the track was originally designed for open-wheel racing, and it has hosted legendary names in IndyCar and CART history.

In 2020, Phoenix Raceway was chosen as the host of the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race, marking a historic milestone for the track. The event has since solidified Phoenix’s place as one of NASCAR’s most important venues.

The Infamous “Rattlesnake Hill”

Phoenix Raceway offers a seating capacity of 42,000, with an added bonus for fans who enjoy a unique perspective. The general admission seating area outside of turns one and two, known as “Rattlesnake Hill,” provides an incredible panoramic view of the entire track. The name comes from the early days of the raceway due to rattlesnakes and scorpions having to be removed from the hillside. Today, it remains a fan-favorite location, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for spectators.

Recent Renovations and Modernization

To enhance the fan experience and modernize the facility, Phoenix Raceway underwent major renovations in 2018 as part of a $178 million upgrade. Some of the most notable improvements included:

• A completely redesigned infield, allowing fans to get closer to the action with improved access to the garages and victory lane.
• An updated grandstand with better sightlines and more comfortable seating.
• New VIP suites and hospitality areas, including state-of-the-art luxury boxes.
• Improved LED lighting for night racing and enhanced visibility.

These upgrades have transformed Phoenix Raceway into a world-class racing facility, ensuring that it remains a premier motorsports destination for years to come.

A Legacy of High-Speed Thrills

Phoenix Raceway is more than just a racetrack—it’s a place where legends are made and champions are crowned. From its unique layout and thrilling races to its storied history and modern upgrades, the raceway continues to be a favorite among drivers and fans alike. As it remains the home of NASCAR’s championship race, Phoenix Raceway’s legacy as one of the most exciting venues in racing history is firmly cemented.

Whether you're a die-hard NASCAR fan, an IndyCar enthusiast, or just someone looking for a high-octane experience, Phoenix Raceway delivers the ultimate motorsports spectacle in the heart of the Arizona desert.