Sonoma Raceway

Description

Layouts and configuration

Sonoma Raceway has multiple layouts. The main layout is measured at 2.52 mi and has 12 turns. Its NASCAR layout, measured at 1.99 mi, bypasses turns five and six (known as the Carousel) and instead uses a straight-line section known as "the Chute", which connects turn 4A to turn 7A, both of which are turns exclusive to the NASCAR layout. The facility has a dragstrip which is measured at a 1/4 mi long and is known for having an uphill gradient.

Amenities

Sonoma Raceway is located in Sonoma, California, and is served by California State Route 37 and California State Route 121. As of 2022, the track has a permanent seating capacity of 44,000 according to track owner Speedway Motorsports. In total, the track complex covers approximately 1,600 acre of land according to KTXL.

Track history

Early years

Planning and construction

On December 19, 1967, The Press Democrat reported that Sears Point Properties, Inc. filed a permit to build a 2.47 mi road course near the Sears Point area. The corporation's investors consisted of four Marin County businessmen: James Coleman, John B. Gibbons, Robert D. Marshall, and Gordon Blumenfeld. The track was originally set to be the first phase of an entertainment complex named "Sears Point Park," according to the permit application. The Sonoma County Board of Zoning Adjustments approved the permit on December 21, with track executives stating hopes of hosting an inaugural Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) event on September 22, 1968. Additional plans for the track were released the following month, which included a projected budget of $1,200,000 (adjusted for inflation, $) and track layouts for a 1/4 mi drag strip and two road course layouts. Groundbreaking for the track was initially announced for March of that year; however, financing struggles in raising the $1.2 million budget delayed it by months. A new groundbreaking date for the now-named "Sears Point International Raceway" (SPIR) was announced and took place on August 14, 1968, with work commencing on the main road course and drag strip. A different road course layout was used than the initial plans released in December 1967.

In early September 1968, promoter Ken Clapp signed a long-term lease to host United States Auto Club (USAC) and NASCAR-sanctioned races at the facility. Paving for SPIR began on September 26 and was completed by October 4, with the complex having three road course layouts of 1.78 mi, 2.1 mi, and 2.5 mi, according to The Modesto Bee. Later that month, Clapp secured rights to host motorcycle races at SPIR, with the first event at the complex being scheduled for a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) event in March 1969. SPIR held its first races on November 30, holding informal SCCA races that were closed off to spectators. Construction was slowed throughout the winter of 1968–69 due to storms, with Coleman, now general manager of the track, stating that "more than $100,000" worth of damages were incurred as a result of the storms. According to track designer Don Boos, construction costs "far exceeded" expectations. In addition, the final hairpin corner was altered in the final design; according to Boos, it was altered because the land where the corner was built was a former dairy farm. The dairy farm included a manure reservoir which was described as "an absolute stinking quagmire" by Boos, so the designers opted to alter the corner from Boos' plans.

Brief first opening, financial troubles, subsequent closure

SPIR's dragstrip opened to the general public as scheduled on March 8 for an NHRA event, with Don Garlits winning the first feature event at the dragstrip a day later in the event's Top Fuel division. The venue received some criticism for heavy traffic and a lack of available parking; in response, two additional parking lots were opened to alleviate parking issues. The venue's road course formally opened later in the month on the 28th to host an SCCA event. In May of that year, negotiations began for film company Filmways to buy out SPIR, with Filmways finalizing its purchase two months later. SPIR held its first NASCAR-sanctioned race in June, with Ray Elder winning a Pacific Coast Division (now known as the ARCA Menards Series West) event. On September 7, the track experienced its first fatality after motorcycle rider Lee Patterson crashed in the main track layout's seventh turn, hitting a hay bale and dying instantly upon impact. The following year, SPIR hosted its first USAC Championship Car race, with Dan Gurney winning the event on April 4.

Soon after Filmways' purchase of SPIR, the facility fell into financial trouble due to high overhead expenses. In early May 1970, SPIR president Craig Murray talked to local media about the facility's financial decline, stating that the facility had lost $300,000 (adjusted for inflation, $) within 14 months, undergone major staffing cuts, and that the stock price of the track had dropped from $35 to $8.25. Despite plans to host future scheduled races, on May 11, Filmways officially announced the cancellation of all Filmways-run events. The entire facility was put up for sale with an asking price set at between $3.5–4 million. After all offers to buy out the entirety of SPIR at the initial asking price fell through, the price was quickly dropped to $1.5–1.7 million for only the racetrack and its parking lots. After two one-off races run by the San Francisco Junior Chamber of Commerce, SPIR was closed for the rest of 1970 in August, with "no bright hopes" of a potential sale. By the end of October 1970, San Francisco Examiner reporter Miles Ottenheimer described the condition of SPIR as a "sad scene," writing that "nature is slowly taking over... peering through the wire gate at all this potential lying wasted, one is saddened. Only rabbits and occasional deer now venture out on the road course."

1973 reopening, further financial troubles and government conflicts

In February 1971, Craig Murray stated an interest in potentially purchasing SPIR, planning meetings with NASCAR executives Bill France Jr. and Les Richter. Two months later, Murray announced in a press conference the formation of a corporation with drivers Dan Gurney, George Follmer, and Peter Revson that aimed to raise $1.5 million to purchase the facility. He further stated hopes to host motorcycle and drag races in 1972. An option to buy the facility was purchased by the group in August. In an effort to find other ways to generate revenue for SPIR, Murray announced in January 1972 plans to open the track daily to paying amateur drivers and spectators. However, the opening was delayed due to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) paperwork and a slow stock issue to raise $1,500,000 (adjusted for inflation, $).

Starting in November 1972, Hugh Harn and Parker Archer were rumored as potential buyers for SPIR's lease, with the duo stating in the Daily Independent Journal their plans to focus on motorcycle racing. The duo's purchase was officially confirmed on January 1, 1973, for approximately $1,000,000, with the first races being scheduled for May of that year. SPIR officially reopened for an SCCA driving school on March 2, with the first sports car and motorcycle events since reopening occurring in the following months. Harn and Archer, soon after their purchase, were embattled with local environmental agencies, who refused to let the duo run major races until improvements to the track's water and sewage systems were made. Although some upgrades were made, by the time the duo tried to renew their racing license in 1974, Sonoma County officials had increased their requirements to host spectator events. After it was found that the track was near the Rodgers Creek Fault, Sonoma County refused to renew the track's license to host spectator races.

In June 1974, Bob Bondurant, the owner of a driving school which was a tenant at SPIR, bought Harn and Archer's lease, making some renovations to the track's parking lot and water system by the end of July. However, within the first months of Bondurant's tenure, The Sacramento Union's Jack Woodard reported that as a result of continued financial issues and conflicts with local environmentalists, SPIR would "probably close forever next spring." Woodard further criticized the track's surface for being "not fit for any kind of racing at all," claiming, "construction goofs and years of neglect have resulted in a track that ranks somewhere between impossible and impassable." Bondurant denied the claims in late October, stating, "I'm going to sit down with [Woodard]... and have him do another article." In Woodard's follow-up article released on November 3, Bondurant admitted that although numerous renovations were needed, he did some minor renovations as a sign of "good faith" in hopes of getting Sonoma County officials to renew the track's annual license.

Conflicts between SPIR officials and SPIR owner Filmways continued into the mid-1970s, with Filmways refusing to invest in and expand the track as they were looking to sell the facility. After minor repairs were made to the track's surface in June 1975, Filmways approved $1 million in November to build a sewer treatment plant. By February 1976, SPIR President Lee Moselle stated that "considerable sums of money" had been spent on water and sewage facilities to comply with Sonoma County law. Three years later, Bondurant signed an agreement with Filmways to purchase the track in March. The purchase became official in June, with the Bondurant, Bill Koll, and Don Marsh-led Black Mountain Inc. paying $1.45 million.

Early fatalities

In the first few years after its reopening, SPIR oversaw numerous fatalities. On August 6, 1973, SPIR experienced its second death after Duane Gomez, son of Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher Lefty Gomez, died after sustaining injuries in a motorcycle race. Three years later, motorcycle racer Edward Unini crashed into a track embankment and was killed after he was run over on July 18, 1976. On June 11, 1977, motorcycle trainee Candice Corbett died of "massive injuries to the left chest" after crashing at one of the track's turns. Two years after Corbett's death, Tim K. Kuykendall died in a Formula Ford race after his head hit a surrounding guardrail during a crash on August 11, 1979. Almost a year later, on August 10, 1980, Gary Lynn died after crashing into a deer that had jumped over a guardrail onto his path at the track's eighth turn.

Brief rebranding, Bondurant departure

A few months after Bondurant's purchase of SPIR, a fourth partner in Black Mountain, the Long Beach Grand Prix Association (LBGPA), joined the organization in January 1980. With the LBGPA joining, SPIR was rumored to undergo a rebranding to "Golden Gate Raceway"; the name change was confirmed in April. The rebranding lasted for a brief time. In March 1981, Bondurant resigned as president of the track due to disagreements over "management philosophies and goals" between himself and other members of management. Bondurant further blamed the LBGPA and its director, Chris Pook, claiming that Pook had not appeared at the facility in five months and that under his leadership, the track's public relations department had failed to maintain relationships with sponsors and sanctioning bodies after the departure of track director of operations, Art Glattke. In addition, several major events were canceled due to disputes with sanctioning bodies.

In March 1981, the owners filed a lawsuit against Filmways for "alleged misrepresentations of the June 1979 sale" in an effort to stop foreclosure proceedings after they stopped making mortgage payments to Filmways, stating that the track's actual revenue was less than what Filmways had agreed to in their contract. According to the owners' spokesman, Matthew Hudson, stopping mortgage payments "was part of a plan... to get Filmways' attention." A Sonoma County Superior Court judge ruled in favor of Filmways in May, leading Filmways to put the track up for sale soon after. On June 5, a group led by former director of track operations Jack Williams announced plans to buy the track; their purchase was officially confirmed on the 23rd, buying the track for approximately $800,000. With the purchase, the track reverted back to the original SPIR name.

Financial recovery, Jack Williams and Skip Berg eras

By September 1981, SPIR was able to host races with attendances nearing 20,000, which Williams attributed to an increased emphasis on advertising. In addition, Williams announced potential plans to build a 3/8 mi dirt oval at the facility. The track was able to regain several major events by the 1982 season, with Novato Advance writer Rick Lalor stating that "Williams and company... have reversed the fortunes of the facility." In March 1983, Press Democrat writer Ralph Leef stated that with an expanded schedule of major events and financial stabilization, Williams and his group had "taken the motorsports complex out of the junk heap and turned it, once again, into a smooth-running machine." The following year, a pedestrian bridge was built at the first turn, with further plans made to build an additional bridge at the track's carousel turn in 1985.

In February 1984, The Press Democrat published rumors about a potential investor change, with an unspecified "major financial backer" funding upgrades and investor Rick Betts leaving the track ownership group. Seven months later, the rumor was confirmed, with real estate management firm president Skip Berg and financial services company president Frank Scott Jr. investing to help fund a track upgrade project that would take place from 1985 to 1987. In January 1985, a fundraising campaign for $650,000 (adjusted for inflation, $) was initiated to fund a complete repaving of the track; the repave was started and completed in February of that year. By the end of the year, the paddock area was resurfaced alongside the construction of permanent garage facilities, five bridges, and additional permanent seating. In 1986, plans commenced for the construction of several amenities, including a souvenir store, garage areas, and 30 cabanas for VIP guests.

Skip Berg takeover, NASCAR Cup Series debut

On April 24, 1986, Williams was ousted as owner of SPIR by Skip Berg in a buyout, with Berg entering negotiations with Road Atlanta's ownership team for them to manage the track. Williams filed a lawsuit that same month to challenge Berg's ownership; it was settled out of court in August, with Berg retaining control. Berg initially hired Linda Finch as the track's general manager; however, she was fired four months after her hiring, which led to Finch filing a wrongful dismissal lawsuit against Berg that she eventually won in 1991. In December, Berg hired Darwin Doll, who was previously the general manager for the Michigan International Speedway, as general manager for SPIR. At approximately the same time, the impending sale and the subsequent planned closing and demolition of Southern California-based track Riverside International Raceway led NASCAR to consider replacing its national touring Cup Series race in Riverside with SPIR. Although NASCAR president Bill France Jr. stated in May 1986 that he thought the track needed "many things" and upgrades to obtain a Cup Series date, by the following year, Berg claimed in the San Francisco Examiner that France Jr. was seeking to host a Cup Series race at the facility as early as 1988. In addition, he noted that "for all practical purposes, you're looking at a new racetrack" due to the track's leadership changes. In addition, Berg attempted to improve relations and traffic flow after complaints from local businesses; the results garnered mixed reactions from business owners.[[File:Ricky Rudd 2005 Daytona 500 (cropped).jpg|alt=Refer to caption|thumb|250x250px|[[Ricky Rudd]] (pictured in 2005) won [[1989 Banquet Frozen Foods 300|the first NASCAR Cup Series race]] held at the facility.|left]] Doll's tenure as general was short, leaving on August 1, 1988, to become the general manager of a planned racetrack in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In June, Berg hired IBM executive Glen Long to replace Doll, who brought in an entirely new management team. In December, NASCAR officially announced the debut of the Cup Series at SPIR, scheduling a race for June 11, 1989. The race replaced one of Riverside International Raceway's Cup Series dates, as the track was permanently closed in 1988. To accommodate an influx of fans, temporary grandstands from the Formula One-sanctioned United States Grand Prix at the Phoenix Street Circuit were brought into SPIR. The race ran as scheduled, with Ricky Rudd winning in front of a crowd of 53,000. Long resigned as track president in August 1991 to join a sports marketing agency based in Atlanta, with Oakland Athletics marketing executive Steve Page hired as Long's replacement during the following month. Upon Page's hiring, he stated hopes in The Press Democrat to construct several track improvements, including additional garage stalls and an additional pedestrian tunnel built to separate the track's parking lot from the track. In 1993, the track's name was changed to "Sears Point Raceway," removing "International" from its name.[[File:TSM350 - 2015 - Steve Page - 2 Stierch.jpg|alt=Refer to caption|thumb|200x200px|Steve Page (pictured in 2015) was general manager of Sonoma Raceway from 1991 to 2020.]] Starting in 1993, a series of renovations began. That year, new grandstands were installed along the track's esses section. At the start of 1994, work began on a $1 million (adjusted for inflation, $) beautification project focused on renovating the track's leaderboard, constructing a medical facility, and creating a lawn area at the track's second turn, which was completed in June of that year. Around this time, track officials began drafting plans to build a 1 mi auto racing oval track as a complement to the facility's road course. In October of the same year, construction began on a VIP suite and control tower at the beginning of the track's dragstrip, a drivers' lounge, and a medical center; the project was completed by May 1995.

1980s and 1990s fatalities

SPIR experienced numerous fatalities in the 1980s and 1990s. On August 14, 1983, Bradley Horrell was killed in a crash during an American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM)-sanctioned race. Two cyclists were killed in 1985: Michael J. Parkinson on May 19 and Michael Guerrero on June 9. Parkinson crashed during an American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) race, and Guerrero crashed during an AFM race. In addition, sports car driver Jim Cook died on August 3 after suffering a heart attack during a qualifying lap, crashing at the track's first turn. Two years later, cyclist Mario Manucal was killed during an AMA race in September after crashing into a retaining wall and suffering head and chest injuries. On August 31, 1988, cyclist Russell Paulk died during a practice session for an AMA race after crashing into the retaining wall at the track's eighth turn, dying from multiple trauma. A year later, sailor Tom Blackaller died after suffering a heart attack during a practice session for a Sports 2000 race on September 7.

On March 8, 1990, Melvin Egan died at the end of a Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) race after suffering a heart attack and subsequently crashing at the track's first turn after he finished the race. Four years later, drag racer Ronald E. Dees was killed after crashing during a solo run at the track's drag strip on January 15, dying from severe head injuries. Four deaths occurred in 1997. On June 28, motorcyclist Joshua Scott died after crashing during a practice session for a motorcycle race. Around a month after Scott's death, drag racer Carrie Neal died after crashing during a trial run due to a stuck throttle on July 25, sustaining head injuries. On September 14, sports car racer Derek Israel died after crashing into another car at the track's eighth turn. A month after Israel's death, Brian Craig Wilson died on October 24 after crashing a Formula Mazda car into a track barrier.

Speedway Motorsports era

On November 11, 1996, the *Winston-Salem Journal'''s Mike Mulhurn published rumors about a potential sale of the facility to motorsports businessman and Speedway Motorsports, Inc. (SMI) owner Bruton Smith. The purchase was confirmed two days later during a press conference, with the purchase price later revealed to be $2 million for the track along with an option to purchase the entire 800 acre facility for $38 million according to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) documents. With his purchase, Smith announced plans to heavily renovate the track, including increasing runoff areas, constructing more grandstand areas, and a dual media/VIP building. Smith also denied rumors published by the *San Francisco Chronicle's'' Kenneth Howe about converting the road course into an oval. Some renovations were revealed in April 1997, including the widening of California State Route 121 to reduce traffic and the removal of several dirt mounds around the facility to improve fan visibility. Further renovations were planned soon after, including the construction of permanent grandstand seats at select turns and the start-finish line to increase permanent seating to 40,000, an underground pedestrian tunnel to replace overhead bridges, and several buildings for "keeping with a wine-country theme." However, the renovations were dependent on an environmental report, which delayed its planned completion until 1999.

In October 1997, plans were announced to create "The Chute," a section of the track connecting turns four and seven while bypassing turns five and six, known as "the Carousel," which would be used for NASCAR races. According to Page in a 1999 interview, the Chute was constructed to install more grandstands as track developers could not build a permanent grandstand at the Carousel. The Chute was completed and tested in May 1998 and received initial mixed feedback from drivers due to doubts about the section reducing the track's competitiveness and passing opportunities. The Chute was further modified the following year, which turned Turn Seven, originally a "medium-speed, sweeping" turn, into a "hard-braking 90-degree turn" in an effort to provide drivers a passing opportunity on the NASCAR layout. The layout received negative reviews in May 1999 from testers Rusty Wallace and Wally Dallenbach Jr. over doubts about the effectiveness of the corner's ability to be a passing opportunity.

Expansion delays, eventual approval

The environmental review needed to expand amenities at the facility was delayed multiple times. In July 1998, the Sonoma Valley Citizens Advisory Commission recommended that the Sonoma County Board of Zoning Adjustments reject the proposed $30 million expansion over noise, traffic, and environmental concerns. Original plans included building a mile-long, 110 ft tall grandstand that could seat over 100,000. In addition, a group named the "Yellow Flag Alliance" was created to oppose the project. They threatened to pursue actions to shut down the track in August due to claims of noise-level violations. In response to citizens' concerns, track developers decreased permanent seating expansion from 110,000 to 44,500 seats. By December 1999, plans were downsized further to 35,000 permanent seats, with the grandstand's height shortened to 70 ft. The plan was approved by the Sonoma County Planning Commission in February, endorsed by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors in March, and approved by the board in April. Work began on the now-$35 million project in May despite a last-ditch attempt by the Yellow Flag Alliance to file a lawsuit to stop construction, with 2,000 terrace seats being constructed at the track's fourth turn in time for the 2000 Save Mart/Kragen 350.

An official groundbreaking ceremony for the project occurred in September. The expansion was split into two phases, with the first phase focusing on constructing the permanent grandstands, increasing run-off areas at select turns, a renovated garage area, and other renovations for fan amenities. The first phase of the project was completed in time for the 2001 Dodge/Save Mart 350. In addition, track developers announced planned modifications to "the Chute." The fourth turn for the NASCAR layout was turned into a "70-degree" turn, with the Chute straightaway being lengthened by 100 ft, which led into a new seventh turn for the NASCAR layout. Construction on the new Chute started in March and was completed the following month. The new Chute received a positive reception from testers Rusty Wallace, Matt Kenseth, and Chuck Billington. Work began on the second phase of the project in August, which included plans to build a specialized go-kart track, the construction of grandstands at turn seven and the start-finish line, a complete repave of the track, the separation of the track's road course and dragstrip, a concrete pad for the dragstrip, and the expansion of the track's pit road to accommodate 43 cars. The last of these was made to remove the need for a temporary pit road inside the Turn 11 hairpin, nicknamed "Gilligan's Island," which had been reserved for qualifiers in the final few spots of the field and had existed since 1994. The go-kart track, named the Karting Center, opened in March 2002. The second phase of the project was completed by July of that year. At the time of its completion, the project had cost $50 million. The project increased the number of permanent grandstand seats to approximately 70,000, according to the Oakland Tribune.

Infineon Raceway rebranding

On June 22, 2002, Page announced the sale of the track's naming rights to semiconductor company Infineon Technologies, signing a 10-year, $35 million deal. As a result, the facility was renamed to "Infineon Raceway". In January 2003, work began on a new permanent layout to host races for the AMA Superbike Championship. Built for the purpose of creating a safer layout for the series to race on, the changes created "about a 90-degree turn" for the first turn, a bypass for the track's esses section that created a 900 ft straightaway starting at turn 8A before leading onto a chicane, and a shortening of the turn 11 hairpin by 40 ft. The new layout was completed in March of that year. In August, several turns of the track were repaved and additional curbing was installed in select turns. In 2010, Page announced a project in collaboration with electronics company Panasonic to install 1,652 solar panels on the facility. The project, which cost approximately $3,000,000, was completed in June 2011.

Infineon departure, further renovations

In March 2012, SMI announced that Infineon Technologies would not renew their naming rights deal; according to Page, he had known the company was not going to renew "for three or four years" and that the reason was due to a management overhaul within Infineon. Although the track continued to seek a title sponsor, in June, the track was renamed to "Sonoma" as a temporary rebranding. Two months later, a new hairpin was added for the IndyCar race layout for that year's event, with straightaway leading up to the turn 11 hairpin being extended by 200 ft; with this change, the 11th turn had three layouts. A name change was made official in December, with the track being renamed to "Sonoma Raceway". According to Page, the decision on renaming the track to "Sonoma" rather than the former "Sears Point" moniker was that the name Sonoma represented "an international brand that connotes a lifestyle". In March 2015, the facility's dragstrip was fully repaved.

On August 27, 2020, Page announced his retirement as general manager of Sonoma Raceway effective on January 1, 2021, ending a 29-year reign. Page's replacement was announced in January 2021, with NASCAR's chief marketing and content officer Jill Gregory taking over the position. In June of that year, construction began on a luxury hospitality area at the track's 11th turn. The complex, named the Turn 11 Club, was completed in June 2022 in time for the 2022 Toyota/Save Mart 350. Gregory announced her resignation as general manager of the track on July 19, 2023, to start a marketing consultant firm, with Sonoma Raceway consultant Brian Flynn replacing Gregory on August 1. In December, work began on the first complete repave of the track in over 20 years; the repave was completed in February 2024. Two months later, parts of the repaved surface were reported to have came apart during a GT World Challenge America test, which were patched up before the 2024 Toyota/Save Mart 350 race weekend.

Modern-day fatalities

The track continued experiencing fatalities heading into the new millennium. Two motorcyclists died in 2000 due to crashes: Mark Anderson on January 8 and Tom Marino on November 3. On August 26, 2001, Formula Vee driver Tim Barlow died when he was involved in a multi-car incident after his car stalled on-track. On June 20, 2004, motorcyclist Rich Thorwaldson died after crashing during a club race on May 30, dying after spending three weeks in a coma. Nearly two months later, Jimm Groshong died in a crash at the track's ninth turn after he attempted to avoid a crashed rider on August 7. On August 11, 2006, motorcyclist Allen Rice died after crashing near the track's pit road exit due to a stuck throttle. On November 28, 2009, furniture store owner Larry Kurpieskwi died after suffering a heart attack during a go-kart race, crashing during the event. On May 15, 2010, motorcyclist Augustine Alves died in a crash at a temporary 1/4 mi dirt track. Two deaths occurred in 2018. On March 28, drag racer James Rambo died in a crash at the facility's dragstrip, hitting a protective wall at "more than 100 mph" during a Wednesday Night Drags event. Eight months later, Paul Martin Traver died in a go-kart accident on November 24 at the track's eighth turn, having been ejected 50 ft in the crash due to Traver not wearing a seatbelt.

Events and uses

Auto racing

NASCAR

NASCAR has held sanctioned races at Sonoma Raceway since 1969. The track has hosted one NASCAR Cup Series race annually at the facility since 1989 (with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic), with a race currently known as the Toyota/Save Mart 350. In addition, the track hosts NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (currently known as the Sonoma 250) and ARCA Menards Series West (currently known as the General Tire 200) races as support races for the Cup Series, with the latter having made appearances in most years since the track's opening in 1969.

Open-wheel racing

The IndyCar Series debuted at Sonoma Raceway in 2005, and raced annually at the facility until 2018, when it was replaced by Laguna Seca for the following year. From 2015 until 2018, the track's race was the final race of the season for the IndyCar Series. In addition, the United States Auto Club (USAC) sanctioned an open-wheel race at the facility on April 4, 1970 for the USAC Championship Car series.

NHRA

The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) has held the NHRA Sonoma Nationals annually since 1988 (with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Prior to 1988, the NHRA had sanctioned local races at the facility since 1969, with the 1969 San Francisco National Open being the first event in the facility's history.

Sports car racing

The Grand Prix of Sonoma, a sports car race, has been ran under multiple sanctioning bodies. The IMSA GT Championship first ran the Grand Prix of Sonoma in 1976, running the event annually until 1990, when it was dropped for the following season. The series returned to Sonoma in 1995, running annually until 1997. In 1999, the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) starting sanctioning the Grand Prix of Sonoma, running it annually until 2005.

Other racing events

Somona Raceway has held a variety of racing series throughout its existence, including the 24 Hours of Lemons, the AMA Superbike Championship, Auto GP, the Can-Am Series, Ferrari Challenge North America, GT World Challenge America, the Rolex Sports Car Series, the Trans-Am Series, and the World Touring Car Championship.

Non-racing events and uses

Filming production

Sonoma Raceway was used for filming in the 1970 film Little Fauss and Big Halsy.

Unrealized events

In 1969, plans were announced to host a free rock music festival on December 6, which had an expected attendance of 300,000 and was marketed as the "Woodstock West". Shortly after the concert was announced and some preparations were made, the concert was cancelled the day before the concert after track vice president Ken Clapp called numerous agencies and track owner Filmways to plead the cancellation of the concert after Clapp saw a 13-year-old woman with a recently-born infant on track property. It was moved on short-notice to Altamont Speedway in what was eventually known as the Altamont Free Concert, which was infamous for its violent reputation and is regarded as a key moment in American counterculture history.

In February 2015, track leaders announced potential plans to host a four-day rock music festival, with hopes of hosting the inaugural event in 2017. However, two months after the initial announcement, plans for the festival were scrapped due to high costs and a long wait to obtain a permit to host music festivals according to then-track general manager Steve Page.

Layout configurations

File:Sonoma_Raceway_NASCAR_Circuit_2024.svg|Club Circuit (2001–present) File:Sonoma_Raceway_2024.svg|Long Circuit (2002–present) File:Infineon_(Sears_Point)with_emphasis_on_Moto-IRL_track.svg|IndyCar Circuit (2005–2007) File:Sonoma(WTCC)_layout.png|WTCC Circuit (2012–present) File:Sonoma_Raceway_Indy-2012.svg|IndyCar Circuit (2012–present)

Race lap records

As of April 2025, the fastest official race lap records at Sonoma Raceway for different classes are listed as:

References

References

1. Raman, Rahul. (October 3, 2018). "Sonoma Raceway Brings Back 'The Carousel' for 2019 NASCAR Cup Race".
2. Crandall, Kelly. (September 29, 2018). "Sonoma brings Carousel back for 2019 NASCAR races".
3. (December 5, 2000). "Sears Point to Revamp Chute". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
4. Christie, Toby. (January 10, 2022). "Sonoma Raceway Replaces Carousel With the Chute For 2022 Track Layout".
5. Kepner, Bret. (July 28, 2022). "Will Brittany Force’s Near-Record Speed Trigger a Rebuttal from the NHRA?".
6. Cammisa, Jason. (March 13, 2015). "Your butt dyno and you". [[Road & Track]].
7. Freedman, Wayne. (June 21, 2014). "Sonoma Raceway to host NASCAR Sprint Cup race".
8. Ahmad, Aydian. (June 7, 2024). "NASCAR Cup Series heads to Sonoma Raceway for road course racing action". [[KTXL]].
9. (December 19, 1967). "Auto Race Track Planned For Sears Point Area". [[The Press Democrat]].
10. Reid, James E.. (December 22, 1967). "Green Flag Waves For Race Complex". [[The Press Democrat]].
11. Craft, Harry. (December 28, 1967). "Food Market To Open Again To Serve Loch Lomond Area". [[Daily Independent Journal]].
12. (January 22, 1968). "Sears Point Race Track Plan Ready". [[Petaluma Argus-Courier]].
13. (January 25, 1968). "'Grand Prix' Race Track At Sears Pt.". [[Vallejo Times Herald]].
14. Ottenheimer, Miles. (March 1, 1968). "At Last, Auto Track for Bay". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
15. Gardner, Bob. (March 8, 1968). "New Super Speedway". [[Redwood City Tribune]].
16. Glattke, Art. (April 12, 1968). "The Impossible Came True". [[The Modesto Bee]].
17. (April 18, 1968). "Sears Point Race Track Likely Ready This Fall". [[The Press Democrat]].
18. Ottenheimer, Miles. (August 8, 1968). "Raceway Construction Near". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
19. (August 15, 1968). "Ground Broken For Auto Race Track Near Sonoma". [[The Press Democrat]].
20. Jones, Jimmie. (August 11, 1968). "Sears Point Race Track Work Starts". [[Vallejo Times Herald]].
21. Glattke, Art. (September 13, 1968). "Fitness Gets Kick In The Teeth". [[The Modesto Bee]].
22. Glattke, Art. (October 4, 1968). "Sears Point Holds First 'Race'". [[The Modesto Bee]].
23. Glattke, Art. (October 11, 1968). "Council Should Reject Ordinance Bid". [[The Modesto Bee]].
24. Busby, Floyd. (January 10, 1969). "Motor Sport". [[Contra Costa Times]].
25. (November 30, 1968). "Trio Of Napans Racing Jaguar At 'Trial Run' For Sears Point". [[Napa Valley Register]].
26. Pooler, Dennis. (December 3, 1968). "Rain Fails To Halt Impressive Sears Point Raceway Opening". [[Argus-Courier]].
27. Glattke, Art. (February 28, 1969). "Drag Race Opener Is Set For Sears Point". [[The Modesto Bee]].
28. Beronio, Dave. (March 2, 1969). "Sears Point Track Opening Set". [[Vallejo Times Herald]].
29. Leef, Ralph. (June 5, 1981). "Getting things back on track". [[The Press Democrat]].
30. Leef, Ralph. (March 10, 1969). "Garlits Races To Sears Point Inaugural Triumph". [[The Press Democrat]].
31. Gilmartin, Jim. (March 10, 1969). "Crowd Of 12,000 At Sears Point Drag Races". [[Marin Independent Journal]].
32. Gilmartin, Jim. (March 10, 1969). "Race Track Traffic Backed Up For Miles". [[Marin Independent Journal]].
33. Hower, George. (March 12, 1969). "Today's Comment". [[The Press Democrat]].
34. Leef, Ralph. (March 27, 1969). "Sears Pt. Track Parking Relief Seen". [[The Press Democrat]].
35. Glattke, Art. (March 28, 1969). "Sears Point Slates Road Race Event". [[The Modesto Bee]].
36. Leef, Ralph. (March 30, 1969). "Sears Point Is Okay, Drivers Agree". [[The Press Democrat]].
37. (May 8, 1969). "Raceway, Film Firm Talking Of Merger". [[Marin Independent Journal]].
38. (May 18, 1969). "Filmways to Issue Stock for Raceway". [[The Los Angeles Times]].
39. (May 23, 1969). "Raceway Co-operation Is Assured". [[The Press Democrat]].
40. (July 19, 1969). "Sears Point Oval Merger". [[Oakland Tribune]].
41. Gilmartin, Jim. (June 9, 1969). "Farmer Plows To Sears Point Win". [[Marin Independent Journal]].
42. (September 8, 1969). "Sears Point Has Its First Fatality". [[The Press Democrat]].
43. Ottenheimer, Miles. (April 5, 1970). "End of Gurney Famine". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
44. Ottenheimer, Miles. (May 12, 1970). "Foredoomed Pact: Filmways–Sears Point". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
45. Ottenheimer, Miles. (May 6, 1970). "Sears Point In Crisis". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
46. Glattke, Art. (May 8, 1970). "A Sign Of Doom?". [[The Modesto Bee]].
47. Ottenheimer, Miles. (May 11, 1970). "Sears Race Track Closes". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
48. Glattke, Art. (May 12, 1970). "Filmways Halts All Auto Racing At Sears Point". [[The Modesto Bee]].
49. Ottenheimer, Miles. (May 13, 1970). "Prospects Up for Sears Point". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
50. Gordon Jr., Sam. (May 23, 1970). "Sears Track For Sale". [[Napa Valley Register]].
51. (June 3, 1970). "Sears Point Gets 'Sponsor'". [[Napa Valley Register]].
52. Glattke, Art. (June 29, 1970). "Texan Takes Continental Race Victory". [[The Modesto Bee]].
53. Wheatley, Ron. (July 13, 1970). "Minter Pilots Porsche To Sears Point Victory". [[McClatchy]].
54. Ottenheimer, Miles. (August 3, 1970). "Scars Dark Rest of '70 -- Tax Loss". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
55. Ottenheimer, Miles. (October 28, 1970). "Sad Scene at Sears". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
56. Ottenheimer, Miles. (February 23, 1971). "Hope for Sears Point". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
57. Ottenheimer, Miles. (April 14, 1971). "Sears Point May Reopen For Racing". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
58. Ottenheimer, Miles. (April 15, 1971). "Hope for Sears Point". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
59. Giblin, Ron. (April 15, 1971). "Sears Point May Reopen". [[Oakland Tribune]].
60. Weber, Willis. (April 23, 1971). "Varied Program For Sears Point". [[Napa Valley Register]].
61. (August 17, 1971). "Murray Group Gets Sears Point Option". [[The Press Democrat]].
62. Finch, Phil. (January 28, 1972). "Sears Point Goes Amateur". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
63. Chatoian, Ralph. (April 7, 1972). "Novato Mayor's Track Record". [[Daily Independent Journal]].
64. (May 16, 1972). "Sears Raceway Could Reopen If Stock Sells". [[Daily Independent Journal]].
65. Glattke, Art. (June 30, 1972). "Pit Stop". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
66. Glattke, Art. (November 17, 1972). "An Award To Pearce". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
67. Takeshita, Walt. (December 7, 1972). "Motorcyclists Soon May Have An Area For Approved Riding". [[Daily Independent Journal]].
68. (January 1, 1973). "Sears Point Sold, Will Re-Open". [[Oakland Tribune]].
69. Hower, George. (January 3, 1973). "New Sears Point Philosophy -- Promote Racing at Grassroots Level". [[The Press Democrat]].
70. (February 4, 1973). "Sears Pt. Sets 1st 1973 Dates". [[The Press Democrat]].
71. Busby, Floyd. (March 2, 1973). "Motor Sports". [[Contra Costa Times]].
72. Bratten, Walt. (September 19, 1973). "Rough Rider Nationals Attract Large Crowd". [[Napa Valley Register]].
73. Hower, George. (October 26, 1973). "SR Man in SCCA Finals". [[The Press Democrat]].
74. Leef, Ralph. (June 3, 1981). "The struggle for survival...". [[The Press Democrat]].
75. Woodard, Jack. (May 26, 1974). "Another Sears sale". [[The Sacramento Union]].
76. Hower, George. (June 2, 1974). "Bondurant takes over". [[The Press Democrat]].
77. Smail, Barry. (July 24, 1974). "New life at Sears Point raceway". [[Novato Advance]].
78. Woodard, Jack. (October 20, 1974). "Raceway on the skids". [[The Sacramento Union]].
79. (October 24, 1974). "Bondurant denies track to close". [[The Press Democrat]].
80. Woodard, Jack. (November 3, 1974). "Sears Point's champion". [[The Sacramento Union]].
81. Lent, Ron. (May 7, 1975). "Sears Point Romance May Be Over". [[Daily Independent Journal]].
82. (June 4, 1975). "Sears Point repairs track". [[The Press Democrat]].
83. Glattke, Art. (November 7, 1975). "Pit stop". [[The Modesto Bee]].
84. (February 8, 1976). "Sears Pt. Raceway back to 'big time'". [[The Press Democrat]].
85. (March 17, 1979). "Bondurant To Buy Sears Point Track With Two Others". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
86. (March 21, 1979). "Bondurant et al. buy Sears Point". [[Novato Advance]].
87. Schneider, Klaus D.. (July 18, 1979). "Bondurant, partners buy raceway". [[Novato Advance]].
88. (August 7, 1973). "Cycle Death Of Gomez Probed". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
89. (July 19, 1976). "Cyclist, Swimmer Lose Lives". [[Argus-Courier]].
90. (June 12, 1977). "Woman killed at raceway". [[The Press Democrat]].
91. Doo, Jack. (August 13, 1979). "Insolo shakes off bridesmaid stigma". [[The Modesto Bee]].
92. Garrity, Karl. (August 17, 1979). "Racing Roundup". [[North County Times]].
93. (August 11, 1980). "Motorcycle racer dies after crash with racer". [[Oakland Tribune]].
94. Dempsey, Steve. (January 22, 1980). "Sears Point sale should be finalized in morning meeting". [[Vallejo Times Herald]].
95. Dempsey, Steve. (January 23, 1980). "Long Beach group buys into Sears Point". [[Vallejo Times Herald]].
96. Leef, Ralph. (January 28, 1980). "Ralph Leef: Sports Editor". [[The Press Democrat]].
97. Martin, Gordon. (April 3, 1980). "Sears Point Track Gets New Name". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
98. Leef, Ralph. (March 8, 1981). "Bondurant quits as track president". [[The Press Democrat]].
99. Leef, Ralph. (June 4, 1981). "Big boom and... a big bust". [[The Press Democrat]].
100. (March 20, 1981). "Golden State owners sue to stop foreclosure". [[The Press Democrat]].
101. Vierria, Dan. (May 8, 1981). "GSIR's Fate Pending". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
102. Lalor, Rick. (May 20, 1981). "Motor racing briefs". [[Novato Advance]].
103. (May 20, 1981). "GSIR will remain open". [[The Press Democrat]].
104. (June 5, 1981). "'We'd like to buy the track'". [[The Press Democrat]].
105. Leef, Ralph. (June 23, 1981). "'Our goal is not to go broke'". [[The Press Democrat]].
106. Lalor, Rick. (June 24, 1981). "Motor racing". [[Novato Advance]].
107. Vierria, Dan. (September 11, 1981). "New Promoters Bringing Sears Point Back To Life". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
108. Lalor, Rick. (February 3, 1982). "Motor racing". [[Novato Advance]].
109. Leef, Ralph. (March 15, 1983). "Sears Point: A race track back in the fast lane". [[The Press Democrat]].
110. Bainbridge, Jim. (March 27, 1984). "NARC signs sponsor for its 24-race circuit". [[Oakland Tribune]].
111. Murphy, Bob. (December 21, 1984). "Sears Point Raceway gets a facelift for '85". [[The Sacramento Union]].
112. (February 10, 1984). "On the move at Sears Pt.". [[The Press Democrat]].
113. (September 23, 1984). "Two investors bring millions to improve Sears Point track". [[Oakland Tribune]].
114. (January 4, 1985). "Fundraising campaign underway at Sears Pt. Raceway in Sonoma". [[Rohnert Park Cotati Clarion]].
115. Kearns Jr., Owen. (January 10, 1985). "Racetrack at Sears Point to get a facelift". [[Santa Cruz Sentinel]].
116. Lalor, Rick. (February 13, 1985). "Motor Racing". [[Novato Advance]].
117. Sartori, Wayne. (November 8, 1985). "Support your local race track". [[The Sacramento Union]].
118. Lalor, Rick. (January 22, 1986). "Motor Racing". [[Novato Advance]].
119. Martin, Gordon. (April 25, 1986). "Who Owns Sears Point?". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
120. Carroll, Gerry. (April 25, 1986). "Williams will fight Sears Point ouster". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
121. Carroll, Gerry. (April 25, 1986). "Sad day at Sears Point". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
122. Carroll, Gerry. (November 9, 1986). "Berg will put Sears Point on a new track". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
123. Bainbridge, Jim. (July 1, 1986). "Finch new GM at Sears Point". [[Oakland Tribune]].
124. Carroll, Gerry. (August 1, 1986). "Berg era begins at Sears". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
125. Bainbridge, Jim. (December 3, 1986). "Improving Sears Point image top priority for new president". [[Oakland Tribune]].
126. Bainbridge, Jim. (October 30, 1991). "Finch wins big in suit vs. Sears Point". [[Oakland Tribune]].
127. Leef, Ralph. (November 1, 1991). "Sears Point former GM wins case over owner". [[The Press Democrat]].
128. Carroll, Gerry. (December 3, 1986). "Sears Point hires ambitious G.M.". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
129. Carroll, Gerry. (May 2, 1986). "NASCAR cool on Sears". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
130. Carroll, Gerry. (April 27, 1987). "Sears may get Winston Cup race in '88; McGriff wins again". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
131. Dunn, James. (October 27, 1988). "Traffic congestion eased". [[The Press Democrat]].
132. (May 5, 1988). "Sears Point president to leave in August". [[The Press Democrat]].
133. Carroll, Gerry. (June 17, 1988). "SPIR's new wave". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
134. Carroll, Gerry. (July 15, 1988). "On the griddle". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
135. (December 2, 1988). "Sears Point will have NASCAR event in '89". [[The Press Democrat]].
136. Willis, Ken. (June 5, 2024). "Sonoma Raceway FYI {{!}} NASCAR makes annual blast into California's Wine Country".
137. (June 4, 1989). "NASCAR drivers will find a new twist at Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
138. Mason, Clark. (June 12, 1989). "Thundering thrills at Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
139. Higgins, Tom. (June 12, 1989). "Rudd Outruns Wallace". [[The Charlotte Observer]].
140. (August 22, 1991). "Sears Point boss resigns". [[The Press Democrat]].
141. Rupprecht, Rich. (September 12, 1991). "A's executive named to head Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
142. Leef, Ralph. (October 24, 1991). "Page gets behind Sears Point wheel". [[The Press Democrat]].
143. Fewel, Clifford. (April 9, 1993). "Incredible growth at Sears Point". [[The Sacramento Union]].
144. Leef, Ralph. (March 26, 1994). "Sears Point on course with many changes". [[The Press Democrat]].
145. (June 26, 1994). "Sears Point Raceway Unveils Major Facility Improvements". [[The Press Democrat]].
146. Leef, Ralph. (April 24, 1994). "Sears Point shifts gears for oval track". [[The Press Democrat]].
147. James, Marty. (October 12, 1994). "Chardonnay to host NorCal Open". [[Napa Valley Register]].
148. Rattle, Jim. (October 14, 1994). "Sears Point snags IMSA". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
149. Rattle, Jim. (May 8, 1995). "Spectator Irvan wonders when he will return". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
150. (August 15, 1983). "Vallejo motorcyclist dies in Sears Point race". [[The Press Democrat]].
151. Leef, Ralph. (May 20, 1985). "Crash kills motorcyclist at Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
152. (June 10, 1985). "Cyclist dies at Sears Pt.". [[The Press Democrat]].
153. Rattle, Jim. (August 4, 1985). "Race driver collapses, dies during speed test". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
154. (September 14, 1987). "Cyclist killed at Sears Point". [[The Sacramento Union]].
155. (October 1, 1988). "Motorcyclist Killed In Sears Point Crash". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
156. Delgado, Alvaro. (September 8, 1989). "Heart attack kills famed sailor Tom Blackaller at Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
157. Martin, Gordon. (March 9, 1990). "A Tragic Victory at Sears Point". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
158. Norberg, Bob. (January 16, 1994). "Drag racer killed at Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
159. Courtney, Kevin. (January 17, 1994). "Napa man killed in one-car Sears Point crash". [[Napa Valley Register]].
160. (July 1, 1997). "Seahawks stay in Seattle". [[The Modesto Bee]].
161. Beitiks, Edvins. (July 26, 1997). "Drag racer killed in Sears crash". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
162. (September 15, 1997). "Two-car crash kills driver in road race". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
163. (October 25, 1997). "Driver Killed During Sears Point Practice". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
164. Mulhurn, Mike. (November 11, 1996). "Smith's next surprise: a possible purchase of Sears Point". [[Winston-Salem Journal]].
165. Leef, Ralph. (November 13, 1996). "Racetrack king buys Sears Point". [[The Press Democrat]].
166. (November 21, 1996). "$2 Million For Raceway". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
167. Leef, Ralph. (November 14, 1996). "Planning begins for Sears Point improvements". [[The Press Democrat]].
168. Howe, Kenneth. (November 13, 1996). "Sears Point Track Sale Expected". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
169. Higgins, Tom. (November 14, 1996). "Speedway Motorsports adds California track". [[The Charlotte Observer]].
170. Swan, Gary. (April 9, 1997). "Sears Point Renovations on Right Track". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
171. Peterson, Anne M.. (April 18, 1997). "Sears Point Raceway going to get a tune-up". [[The Modesto Bee]].
172. Beitiks, Edvins. (April 27, 1997). "Sears Point roars toward renovation". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
173. (April 27, 1997). "Raceway Being Revamped, Retooled, and Revved Up". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
174. Rux, Jack. (November 14, 1997). "Santos is king of the Moguls". [[Oakland Tribune]].
175. Bell, Ted. (January 28, 1998). "Speedway projects". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
176. Rux, Jack. (October 31, 1997). "Sears Point to lose a couple of corners". [[Oakland Tribune]].
177. Swan, Gary. (May 6, 1999). "New Course Concerns Drivers at Sears Point". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
178. Beitiks, Edvins. (May 6, 1998). "Drivers thrown fewer curves". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
179. Swan, Gary. (May 6, 1998). "Sears Point Gets Straightened Out". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
180. (November 10, 1998). "Sears Point modifying The Chute". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
181. Rux, Jack. (January 29, 1999). "Irvan's pregame festivities: 24 Hours of Daytona". [[Oakland Tribune]].
182. Hohnstein, Bryan. (May 5, 1999). "Sears Point Raceway changes don't fly with NASCAR drivers". [[Napa Valley Register]].
183. Podger, Pamela J.. (July 10, 1998). "Raceway Expansion Hits Bumps". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
184. Podger, Pamela J.. (December 15, 1999). "Plans for Sears Point Raceway Call for Smaller Stands, Attendance Limits". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
185. Rux, Jack. (August 14, 1998). "Sprint king Kaeding relinquishes throne". [[Oakland Tribune]].
186. Podger, Pamela J.. (July 28, 1998). "Raceway Alters Expansion Plans to Appease Foes". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
187. (February 20, 2000). "Sears Point plan gets approval". [[Napa Valley Register]].
188. Podger, Pamela J.. (March 22, 2000). "Sears Point Raceway Gets an OK to Expand". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
189. (April 26, 2000). "Sears Point Raceway Expansion Plan OKd". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
190. Sakkis, Tony. (May 26, 2000). "Loaned car starts the healing at Indy". [[Oakland Tribune]].
191. Podger, Pamela J.. (May 27, 2000). "Sears Point Raceway Plan Challenged". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
192. (June 12, 2000). "Sears Point to debut 2,000 of its new hillside terrace seats". [[Oakland Tribune]].
193. Sakkis, Tony. (September 14, 2000). "Sears Point makeover goes full speed ahead". [[Oakland Tribune]].
194. Graham, Barry. (June 22, 2001). "New-look Sears Point greets NASCAR". [[Napa Valley Register]].
195. James, Marty. (March 24, 2001). "Carpenter off to fine start at Edgewood College". [[Napa Valley Register]].
196. Valdez, Alex. (April 27, 2001). "Drivers give 'Chute' a thumbs-up". [[The Modesto Bee]].
197. (August 10, 2001). "Sports capsule". [[Napa Valley Register]].
198. Crowley, John. (March 28, 2002). "Tuning up the track". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
199. Wilson, Marshall. (January 7, 2001). "Tracks Work On Similar Face-lifts". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
200. Tom, Brian. (June 23, 2002). "Shipwrecked Nadeau hoping for rescue".
201. Willis, Ken. (June 5, 2024). "Sonoma Raceway FYI {{!}} NASCAR makes annual blast into California's Wine Country".
202. (March 16, 2002). "Sears Point unveils Karting Center". [[Napa Valley Register]].
203. (July 25, 2002). "Hartman–Smith ready to rev motor". [[The Modesto Bee]].
204. Rux, Jack. (December 9, 2002). "Car racing fans focus on their favorite drivers". [[Oakland Tribune]].
205. Jones, Kelly. (June 23, 2002). "Raceway sells its name to technology company". [[The Modesto Bee]].
206. (January 31, 2003). "Haas fires 11-under-61 to lead Bob Hope Classic". [[Oakland Tribune]].
207. Adams, Bruce. (March 21, 2003). "Bikers get peek at new Infineon". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
208. (August 6, 2003). "Infineon Raceway to repave road course". [[Napa Valley Register]].
209. (August 20, 2003). "Infineon course repaved and ready". [[Napa Valley Register]].
210. Norborg, Bob. (November 18, 2010). "Infineon Raceway goes solar in partnership with Panasonic".
211. Woody, Todd. (June 27, 2011). "Solar Panels And Sheep Green Up NASCAR".
212. Motavalli, Jim. (August 6, 2011). "Giant array of solar panels powers Infineon Raceway". [[Oakland Tribune]].
213. Mickle, Tripp. (March 6, 2012). "Out Of Gas: Infineon Not Renewing Naming-Rights Deal For Sonoma Speedway".
214. FitzGerald, Tom. (March 8, 2012). "Sonoma Raceway to lose Infineon name".
215. Hart, Steve. (June 1, 2012). "Former Infineon Raceway to be called ‘Sonoma’ for now".
216. FitzGerald, Tom. (August 1, 2012). "Sonoma tweaks track to facilitate passing". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
217. Mickle, Tripp. (December 9, 2012). "Sonoma name wins out at track".
218. Carter, Lori A.. (May 26, 2019). "As it celebrates 50th anniversary, Sonoma Raceway looks to the decades ahead".
219. Bennett, Bobby. (March 3, 2015). "Sonoma Raceway Repaves Drag Strip".
220. Serafini, Steven. (March 12, 2015). "Sonoma Raceway re-amps WednesdayDrags, hosting Tour de Charity".
221. Smith, Chris. (August 27, 2020). "Sonoma Raceway president Steve Page announces retirement".
222. Kallen, Christian. (August 27, 2020). "Steve Page on his final lap at Sonoma Raceway".
223. Lopez, Julian A.. (January 7, 2021). "Modesto native Jill Gregory named general manager at Sonoma Raceway".
224. (July 2, 2021). "Sonoma Raceway starts construction on new hospitality facility".
225. Wood, Susan. (November 8, 2021). "Sonoma Raceway accelerates growth plan with corporate, group events".
226. Morris, Gus. (June 4, 2022). "Sonoma Raceway set for packed NASCAR weekend".
227. Morris, Gus. (July 19, 2023). "Sonoma Raceway names new executive vice president, general manager".
228. Leuty, Ron. (July 19, 2023). "Sonoma Raceway shifts to a new GM as Jill Gregory starts consulting firm".
229. Wood, Susan. (December 8, 2023). "Sonoma Raceway on track for overhaul".
230. Malloy, Emma. (January 15, 2024). "Sonoma Raceway announces first full repave in 23 years".
231. Page, Scott. (February 29, 2024). "Repave project complete at Sonoma Raceway".
232. Smith, Fred. (April 5, 2024). "NASCAR's Denny Hamlin Beefs Online With Sonoma Track Owner Over Major Pavement Issues".
233. Fryer, Jenna. (June 7, 2024). "NASCAR returns to repaved Sonoma road course unsure what to expect from fast new asphalt".
234. (January 10, 2000). "S.F. motorcyclist dies in Sears Point run". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
235. (November 4, 2000). "Motorcycle rider killed at Sears Point". [[Napa Valley Register]].
236. (August 28, 2001). "Race car driver dies after car stalls on track". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
237. Hay, Jeremy. (August 8, 2004). "Motorcyclist dies in Infineon crash".
238. Arrington, Debbie. (March 31, 2006). "For racers, danger's a constant passenger". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
239. Weisel, Jody. (July 1, 2023). "Godspeed! Rich Thorwaldson (1946-2004)".
240. (August 7, 2004). "Black Day In California Continues: AFM Racer Hits Bare Wall And Dies At Infineon Raceway".
241. (August 14, 2006). "R.I.P.: Allen Rice, AFM #120, Killed In Trackday Crash At Infineon Raceway".
242. Engel, Clint. (December 1, 2009). "UPDATE: Idaho furniture retailer Larry Kurpiewski dies at 60".
243. Halverson, Nathan. (May 16, 2010). "Motorcyclist killed during race at Infineon".
244. Jones, Carolyn. (May 17, 2010). "Motorcyclist dies in crash at Infineon".
245. Kallen, Christian. (March 29, 2018). "Drag racer dies in ‘horrific’ crash at Sonoma Raceway".
246. Green, Jason. (March 29, 2018). "Driver dies in 100-mph crash at Sonoma Raceway event".
247. Chavez, Nashelly. (November 24, 2018). "Go-kart racer dies after crash at Sonoma Raceway".
248. (November 26, 2025). "Manteca man killed in Sonoma Raceway crash identified".
249. Pritt, Ryan. (June 10, 2023). "NASCAR to party in Sonoma like it's 1989; plus Dale Jr. is on deck!".
250. Hansen, Christopher. (August 20, 2025). "NASCAR Announces 2026 O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Schedule".
251. Rutherford, Kevin. (December 2, 2025). "2026 ARCA West Schedule Announced".
252. Branscum, Benjamine. (June 6, 2023). "Rolling Through Wine Country: Previewing The General Tire 200 at Sonoma Raceway".
253. Stephens, Mitch. (July 31, 2004). "IRL to race at Infineon next year". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
254. Stephens, Mitch. (August 4, 2004). "IRL hits the road at Infineon Raceway". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
255. Wilson, Marshall. (August 29, 2005). "Kanaan takes a turn for better". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
256. Ayello, Jim. (September 16, 2018). "IndyCar: Rossi's late charge comes up short as Scott Dixon secures fifth championship".
257. Martin, Bruce. (July 17, 2018). "Official: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will host IndyCar championship race in 2019".
258. Fournier, Peter. (October 31, 2014). "Sonoma Raceway lands IndyCar season finale for 2015".
259. Martin, Gordon. (December 3, 1987). "Rich Drags Head For Sears Point". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
260. Barber, Phil. (July 29, 2012). "NHRA notebook: Sonoma becomes circuit staple".
261. Rubin, Shayna. (June 3, 2020). "Full refund offered after NHRA Sonoma Nationals Mello Yello Drag Racing Series is canceled".
262. (March 25, 2019). "Sears Point Raceway debuted with drags 50 years ago".
263. (September 30, 1975). "IMSA racing at Sears Pt.". [[The Press Democrat]].
264. Martin, Gordon. (July 26, 1976). "Porsches Finish 1-2 In Sears Point Racing". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
265. Martin, Gordon. (December 15, 1990). "Bay Area Gains, Loses IMSA Event". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
266. (October 20, 1994). "Bluebird returned to site of '35 record". [[Oakland Tribune]].
267. (July 17, 1995). "Brit Weaver holds on for Sonoma IMSA win". [[San Francisco Examiner]].
268. Rattie, Jim. (July 14, 1997). "New engine excels for Sears Point win". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
269. (November 22, 1998). "New race series set for Sears Point". [[Napa Valley Register]].
270. Swan, Gary. (July 26, 1999). "Fans Slow to Catch On to Fast Cars". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
271. Stephens, Mitch. (July 18, 2005). "Audis rule at Infineon". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
272. Bosowski, Dale. (March 22, 2006). "Lamar should be fun to watch". [[Turlock Journal]].
273. Sotero, Ray. (March 18, 2022). "When Life Gives You Lemons, Race Them".
274. Gay, Nancy. (May 5, 2003). "Star's crash costly". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
275. Mills, Peter. (September 22, 2012). "Auto GP Sonoma: Pal Varhaug wins race one for Virtuosi UK as champion Adrian Quaife-Hobbs retires".
276. Lalor, Rick. (October 3, 1984). "Motor Racing". [[Novato Advance]].
277. (March 9, 2025). "Franco, Green finish on top in first Ferrari Challenge race of 2025".
278. Allaway, Phil. (March 29, 2025). "George Kurtz Dominates Sonoma GT America Opener".
279. Arrington, Debbie. (August 27, 2006). "Pruett threads way to win in Grand American Rolex". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
280. Pryson, Mike. (April 28, 2025). "Paul Menard Continues Winning Ways in Trans Am Series at Sonoma". [[Autoweek]].
281. Mills, Peter. (September 23, 2012). "Sonoma WTCC: Yvan Muller boosts points lead with race one win". [[Autosport]].
282. Collins, William. (October 30, 1970). "'Little Fauss' Depicts Cycle Bum". [[The Philadelphia Inquirer]].
283. (December 4, 1969). "Sears Pt. 'Woodstock' Might Draw 300,000". [[The Press Democrat]].
284. Barber, Phil. (December 5, 2019). "Barber: Infamous Altamont concert was nearly held at Sears Point Raceway. Here’s the inside story".
285. Grieg, Michael. (December 6, 1969). "New Site Of Stones Concert". [[San Francisco Chronicle]].
286. Chiu, David. (December 3, 2019). "Altamont At 50: The Disastrous Concert That Brought The ‘60s To A Crashing Halt". [[Forbes]].
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