Michigan International Speedway

History 

Michigan International Speedway (MIS) stands as a storied venue in the world of motorsports, with a rich history that spans over five decades. The journey of this iconic speedway began on September 28, 1967, when groundbreaking ceremonies marked the start of its construction. Under the guidance of architect Charles Moneypenny, over 2.5 million cubic yards of dirt were moved to form the distinctive D-shaped oval track. The ambitious project, spearheaded by Detroit-area land developer Lawrence H. LoPatin, culminated in the track’s opening on October 13, 1968, with a seating capacity of 25,000 and an estimated construction cost of $4-6 million.

LoPatin’s ownership of the track was relatively brief, as it changed hands in 1972 when Roger Penske acquired it for an estimated $2 million. Penske’s tenure marked a significant period of growth and modernization for the speedway. Under his leadership, the track’s seating capacity was expanded multiple times, eventually reaching 125,000 seats. During this period, from 1997 to 2000, the track was temporarily renamed Michigan Speedway to align with other tracks owned by Penske’s Motorsports International before its merger with the International Speedway Corporation (ISC).

The turn of the millennium brought another change in ownership as ISC purchased the speedway in 1999. The following year, the track’s name was reverted to its original title, Michigan International Speedway, reinstating its historic identity.

Beyond its primary role in motor racing, MIS has diversified its event offerings, becoming a hub for various community and sporting activities. Notably, it hosts the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s cross country finals for the Lower Peninsula and the annual Make-A-Wish Bicycle Tour, showcasing its versatility and commitment to the local community.

Throughout its history, Michigan International Speedway has evolved from a regional racing venue to a premier motorsports destination, continually adapting to the changing landscape of auto racing and event hosting. Its legacy is built on a foundation of innovation, expansion, and a deep connection with both the motorsports community and its regional supporters.

About The Track 

Michigan International Speedway (MIS) is a premier racing facility renowned for its high-speed thrills and iconic design. Located in Cambridge Township, Lenawee County, Michigan, near the border with Jackson County, the track sits just four miles south of the village of Brooklyn. Nestled in the picturesque Irish Hills area of southeastern Michigan, MIS spans over 1,400 acres (5.7 km²) and boasts a scenic yet strategically advantageous location: 70 miles west of Detroit, 40 miles from Ann Arbor, and roughly 60 miles from both Lansing, Michigan, and Toledo, Ohio.

MIS features a 2-mile (3.2 km) moderate-banked D-shaped oval, a track design that has been in place since its inception in 1968. The track’s banking is a key aspect of its unique character, with turns banked at 18 degrees, the start/finish line at 12 degrees, and the backstretch at 5 degrees. This configuration contributes to the high speeds and competitive racing that have become synonymous with the venue. The race lap record on this oval was set in 1996 by Mexico’s Adrián Fernández, who clocked a time of 30.767 seconds in a Lola T96/00 during a CART event.

In addition to the oval, MIS features an infield road course that has been in use since the track’s early days. This road course stretches 1.9 miles (3.058 km) and has its own storied history. The race lap record for this configuration is held by Bill Whittington of the United States, who set a time of 1:06.060 in a March 84G during an IMSA GTP race in 1984.

From 1968 to 1994, MIS also boasted an extended road course that was 3.31 miles (5.327 km) long. This longer configuration challenged drivers with a more complex layout, and the race lap record for this course stood at 1:36.100.

Primarily known for hosting NASCAR events, MIS has carved out a significant place in the world of motorsports. Its combination of speed, history, and scenic surroundings make it a beloved destination for racing fans and a challenging venue for drivers. The track’s legacy is built on its ability to consistently deliver thrilling racing experiences, a tradition that continues to draw crowds and competitors from across the globe.