Sebring International Raceway: The Track That Never Sleeps (Or Smooths Out)

A True Test of Racing at Sebring

Sebring International Raceway—known as one of the roughest, toughest, most spine-rattling tracks in North America. Established in 1950, this legendary circuit has been shaking up motorsport (and race car suspensions) for over seven decades.

Sebring is more than just a racetrack; it is a rigorous test of endurance for both cars and drivers. Join us as we explore the rich history, defining moments, and intense atmosphere that have cemented Sebring's status as a true icon of motorsport.

A Track with a War Story and Bumpy Beginning

Before it became the land of burnt rubber and high-speed heroics, Sebring was Hendricks Army Airfield—a WWII training base for B-17 pilots. The track still incorporates sections of World War II-era landing fields, constructed with large concrete slabs and visible seams.

Inspired by the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Russian-American aeronautical engineer Alec Ulmann, searched for a site to start a car endurance race after the war. The first race was a modest six-hour endurance event, but it laid the foundation for what would later become the grueling, no-holds-barred 12 Hours of Sebring.

The Main Event: The 12 Hours of Sebring

Sebring's biggest claim to fame is its 12-hour endurance race—America’s answer to Le Mans. This isn't just a race, it’s an epic battle between man, machine, and the ever-changing Florida weather.

You’ve got tight chicanes, long straights, and temperatures that swing between “tropical paradise” and “surface of the sun.” It’s not just about speed—it’s about strategy, survival, and keeping your fillings intact.

Turns that Count

Spanning 3.74 miles and 17 turns, this track isn’t for the faint of heart. Each corner tells a story, most of them involving tire smoke and regret.

• Turn 17 (Sunset Bend) – A fast, bumpy right-hander leading onto the front straight, challenging drivers with heavy braking zones and varying racing lines. Its rough surface and changing grip levels make it one of Sebring’s most demanding corners.
• Turn 7 (Hairpin) – A tight, slow-speed left-hand corner requiring precision braking and smooth throttle application. It serves as a key overtaking spot, but its exit demands careful power delivery to avoid wheelspin.
• The Concrete Jungle (Turns 15-16, Ullman Straight) – A notoriously rough section built on decades-old concrete slabs from the track’s World War II airfield origins. The uneven surface and relentless bumps test both car durability and driver endurance, making it a defining challenge of the Sebring circuit.

Legends of the Track: Racing Royalty

Sebring has hosted some of the biggest names in motorsport history. We’re talking Mario Andretti, Phil Hill, Dan Gurney—guys who weren’t just fast, they were fearless.

This track is a proving ground. If you can handle Sebring, you can handle anything.

Sebring 2.0

While Sebring embraces its history, it hasn’t shied away from upgrades. The paddock is modernized, safety features are improved, and they even did some resurfacing—though not too much, because that would ruin the fun.

From hosting IMSA events to the FIA World Endurance Championship, Sebring continues to be a magnet for the best drivers and the most dedicated fans. Fans camp out and tailgate creating an atmosphere that’s unforgettable. Green Park is ground zero, where you’ll find race enthusiasts enjoying food, drink, events, each other and of course the race!

Sebring’s Legacy: More Than Just a Track

At the end of the day, Sebring is more than a racetrack—it’s a pilgrimage. It’s where history is made and where legends are born. If you ever find yourself in Florida and you hear the distant roar of engines, follow the sound. It’ll lead you to Sebring—where speed meets endurance, and where every bump tells a story.