The Loud Pedal EditorIndyCar, Laguna SecaComment

IndyCar Returns to the Corkscrew.

The Loud Pedal EditorIndyCar, Laguna SecaComment
IndyCar Returns to the Corkscrew.

Earlier today, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and IndyCar announced a three-year deal, beginning in 2019 for the track to host the season finale until at least 2021.  This is a return of IndyCar to Laguna Seca for the first time in 15 years.  Sonoma Raceway is currently the host of the series finale but has been adamant in not wanting to share the calendar with another venue in northern California.  Sonoma will host the season finale this year on Sunday September 16th, 2018.

Sonoma Raceway President and General Manager Steve Page issued this statement prior to the decision:

“Sonoma Raceway has invested heavily to build IndyCar’s brand and following in Northern California over the last 14 years, and we would be happy to continue that effort, but only under a sustainable business model,” Page said. “If the series determines their long-term interests are better served by moving the Sonoma race to another venue, that is a business decision they are obviously entitled to make, and we will turn our attention to other opportunities.”

Timothy McGrane, CEO of WeatherTech Raceway, declared: "The return of IndyCar to its spiritual road racing home of Laguna Seca is a tremendous honor and testament to the appeal of Monterey, and through the support of the County of Monterey will provide a significant economic benefit to our area businesses. We are looking forward to creating more memories in race fans' minds.”

"It's great news, but I might be biased," said Rahal, who won at Laguna Seca four consecutive times as a racing driver, commented on the agreement. "I won my first Can-Am race there, and our Indy car team won with Bryan Herta and Max Papis and our sports car team won IMSA races there, so I would almost bet you that Laguna Seca is the site of more victories for me as a driver and team owner combined of any track I've ever raced on."

"There is nothing better than the Monterey Bay area, and it's a great circuit that always drew great crowds, so I'm thrilled to have Indy car racing coming back to a circuit I love so much. We will put on a good show, for sure."

If you’re the type of person that wants to read the entire agreement you can access it here