Motorsport is an exhilarating blend of speed, competition, and engineering prowess. Beyond the roar of engines and the adrenaline of the races, there is a deep sense of history and tradition at the heart of the sport. It is this rich history that has been etched into the tarmac of the world’s oldest race tracks, where the echoes of legendary drivers and their machines can still be heard.
These iconic venues are much more than mere physical spaces; they are sacred grounds where the boundaries of automotive performance have been pushed for more than a century.
In this article, we take a closer look at nine of the oldest race tracks in the world, exploring their stories and vintage charms that continue to draw racing enthusiasts year after year.
Oldest Race Tracks in the World
1. Brooklands, UK
Opened in 1907, Brooklands in Surrey, England, is considered the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit. Designed by Hugh Locke King, its 2.75-mile banked track was a playground for the rich and adventurous, witnessing the birth of British motorsport. It played a pivotal role during World War II when it was used for military production.
Although racing ceased in 1939, the Brooklands Museum now preserves its remarkable legacy. The iconic Brooklands clubhouse and remnants of the track still stand today, serving as a testament to the golden age of motorsport.
2. Indianapolis Motor Speedway, USA
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, affectionately known as “The Brickyard,” was built in 1909 and is the second oldest operational motor racing circuit in the world. This 2.5-mile track is home to the famous Indianapolis 500, which has been held annually since 1911, cementing its place in racing folklore.
The original surface of crushed stone and tar proved problematic, resulting in the laying of 3.2 million bricks, giving rise to its nickname. With a capacity for over 250,000 spectators, it is the highest-capacity sports venue in the world. The track’s rich history, speed, and tradition continue to make it an American icon of motorsport.
3. Milwaukee Mile, USA
Established in 1903, the Milwaukee Mile is the oldest operating motor racing circuit in the world still located at its original site. Situated in Wisconsin, USA, it began life as a dirt track before being paved in 1954. Its one-mile oval layout has hosted various series, including NASCAR and IndyCar, and despite its modest size, it’s been a fixture in American motorsport history.
Racing legends such as A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, and Parnelli Jones have all competed on its storied lap. Today, it continues to offer thrilling races while maintaining its old-school charm.
4. Circuit de la Sarthe, France
Home to the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race since its inception in 1923, the Circuit de la Sarthe in France is synonymous with endurance racing. This track is a mix of public roads and racing tarmac, stretching over 8.467 miles. Its unique characteristics have led to the evolution of specialized racing vehicles designed to cope with its gruelling demands.
Notable sections include the Mulsanne Straight and the Tertre Rouge corner. The circuit has seen numerous historical moments, and its annual race remains one of motorsport’s greatest tests of skill and stamina.
5. Monza, Italy
The Autodromo Nazionale Monza, opened in 1922, is an institution in the world of Formula 1. Known for its high speeds and passionate fans, it is one of the fastest and most thrilling circuits on the F1 calendar. Nestled in a royal park in the city of Monza, north of Milan, the track has undergone several evolutions, but the spirit of racing remains unchanged.
The old banked sections, unused in contemporary F1 but visible from modern layout, give the place an almost mythical ambience. Monza has witnessed some of the most dramatic and tragic races in motorsport history, yet its allure endures year after year.
6. Montlhéry, France
The Autodrome de Linas-Montlhéry, located just south of Paris, was built in 1924. Its 1.58-mile banked oval and road course have seen a variety of motorsports, from motorcycle racing to Formula 1. This track is distinguished by its steep banking, which provided a unique challenge to drivers and engineers alike.
Although its glory days as a premier racing circuit have passed, Montlhéry still hosts vintage and club events, preserving its motorsport heritage. Its distinctive banking continues to captivate the imagination of motorsport aficionados.
7. Bonneville Salt Flats, USA
While not a traditional race track, the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA, have been the site of land speed record attempts since 1914. This vast expanse of flat salt crust provides a perfect natural straightaway for vehicles attempting to reach breakneck speeds. Countless records have been set and broken on this stark white landscape, which continues to draw racers from around the world.
The annual Bonneville Speed Week showcases the most innovative and powerful machines as they race against time. The Salt Flats are as much about human ingenuity as they are about raw speed.
8. Pimlico Race Course, USA
Pimlico Race Course, located in Baltimore, Maryland, traditionally hosts the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in the American Triple Crown of horse racing. Opened in 1870, Pimlico is steeped in equine history and has seen legends like Seabiscuit and Secretariat grace its oval dirt track.
Though facing challenges in the modern era, Pimlico continues to be an icon in the world of horse racing, with its annual Preakness Stakes drawing thousands of enthusiasts each year. The venue has survived the test of time, adapting and remaining relevant in the changing landscape of horse racing.
9. Ascot Racecourse, UK
Ascot Racecourse in the UK, founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, is one of the leading racecourses for thoroughbred horse racing. The track gained royal patronage and is closely associated with the British Royal Family, with the annual Royal Ascot being a highlight of the British social calendar. It has undergone extensive redevelopment to maintain its place as a premier horse racing venue.
Its rich history, traditions, and pageantry are unlike any other, attracting visitors from around the world. The allure of Ascot is not just in the competition, but also in the experience it offers—a blend of sport, fashion, and British culture.
FAQs
What defines an “old” race track?
An “old” race track is defined by its long-standing history within the world of motorsport, often being the grounds for racing events for decades or even over a century. Such venues have typically hosted significant historic events and played a major role in the evolution of automotive and horse racing sports.
How have these old race tracks adapted to modern standards?
Many older race tracks have undergone significant renovations and technology upgrades to meet modern safety standards and accommodate current racing series demands. This can include the installation of new barriers, resurfacing of tracks, improvements to spectator facilities, and integration of advanced timing and communication systems.
Why are old race tracks important to the racing community?
Old race tracks are regarded as hallowed grounds within the racing community because they represent the heritage and evolution of the sport. They stand as monuments to past racing triumphs and tragedies, connecting generations of fans and competitors while continuing to host contemporary events.
Conclusion
The oldest race tracks in the world are more than mere venues for speed and competition; they are living museums where the heart of racing history beats strong. Each track tells its own unique story, a narrative shaped by the legends who have raced there and the dramatic moments that have unfolded on their hallowed ground.
From the banked curves of Brooklands to the expansive Salt Flats of Bonneville, these iconic locations hold a special place in the hearts of racing enthusiasts. As motorsport continues to evolve with cutting-edge technology and new challenges, the enduring legacy of these historic race tracks serves as a bridge between the past and the future of racing. They are cherished as cultural landmarks, preserving the spirit of competition and the memories of a bygone era for the generations to come.