Portland International Raceway

Portland International Raceway (PIR) is a renowned motorsport facility located in Portland, Oregon, USA. Since its inception, PIR has been a hub for adrenaline-fueled racing events, offering enthusiasts and professionals alike a thrilling venue for competition. With its versatile road course and drag strip, PIR hosts a diverse array of racing disciplines, including car racing, motorcycle racing, and drag racing. Over the years, it has become a beloved destination for both spectators and participants, cementing its place in the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s motorsport scene.

History 

Portland International Raceway (PIR) has a rich history intertwined with the city’s own narrative. Established on the former site of Vanport, Oregon, a city tragically destroyed by a flood on Memorial Day in 1948, PIR rose from the remnants of this catastrophe. Vanport’s destruction paved the way for the development of what would become one of the region’s premier motorsport destinations.

In 1960, the City of Portland broke ground on the raceway, and by June of the following year, PIR opened its gates to motorsport enthusiasts. Its inaugural races, held amidst the Portland Rose Festival in 1961, marked the beginning of a storied legacy. What once were the city streets of Vanport became the adrenaline-fueled tracks of PIR.

Over the decades, PIR has evolved into a hub for motorsport events, attracting drivers and fans from far and wide. The facility’s versatile road course and drag strip have played host to a myriad of racing disciplines, including car racing, motorcycle racing, and drag racing.

In September 2021, PIR received a significant announcement: the NASCAR Xfinity Series would make its way to the track during the regular season. This milestone highlighted PIR’s stature as a prominent venue in the motorsport world.

As PIR celebrates over six decades of racing history, it stands not only as a testament to the resilience of the City of Portland but also as a beacon for motorsport enthusiasts, continuing to provide thrills and excitement for generations to come.

Track Information 

Portland International Raceway (PIR) has undergone several transformations since its inception, with its track configurations evolving over the years. From its early days on the former streets of Vanport to its present-day layout, PIR has continuously adapted to meet the needs of the racing community.

The original West Delta Park Circuit, utilized from 1961 to 1965, spanned 2.000 miles (3.217 km) and featured 11 turns. This layout provided drivers with a challenging mix of straights and corners, demanding both speed and precision. As the sport evolved, so did the track.

In 1966, PIR introduced the West Delta Park Circuit version 2.0, stretching 1.964 miles (3.160 km) with 11 turns. This revised layout aimed to enhance the racing experience while maintaining the essence of the original circuit.

By 1969, PIR unveiled the Full Circuit, a 1.800-mile (2.896 km) asphalt and concrete track featuring 9 turns. This configuration further refined the racing experience, offering drivers tighter corners and increased technical challenges.

Throughout its history, PIR has remained a fixture in the Portland community, nestled near the neighborhoods of Portsmouth, Kenton, and Piedmont. However, its urban location has raised concerns about potential environmental impacts, particularly regarding lead poisoning from the use of leaded gasoline during races.

As a response to these concerns, there has been a movement advocating for the cessation of leaded fuels at the raceway. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and community health, ensuring that PIR continues to thrive while prioritizing the well-being of its surrounding residents.

Despite these challenges, PIR remains a beloved destination for motorsport enthusiasts, offering thrilling races and unforgettable experiences for drivers and fans alike. As it navigates the complexities of modern racing, PIR remains committed to its legacy while embracing innovation and sustainability for the future.