Sonoma Raceway

Sonoma Raceway, located in the southern Sonoma Mountains of California, is one of the most unique road courses in North America. Originally opened in 1968 as Sears Point Raceway, the facility has gone through various names but remains a staple in both professional and amateur motorsports. Known for its scenic hillside setting and technical layout, Sonoma has hosted a wide variety of series—from the NASCAR Cup Series and IndyCar to NHRA drag racing and club-level SCCA events. After Riverside International Raceway closed in 1988, Sonoma became the go-to West Coast road course for NASCAR. The "chute" layout was introduced in 1998 to simplify the course for stock cars, while the dragstrip has long been home to NHRA’s top-tier events.

The Driving Line

• Track Length: 2.52 miles (4.056 km) – full layout
• Alternate Layout: 1.949 miles (3.137 km) "Chute"
• Elevation Change: 160 feet (49 meters)
• Number of Turns: 12

Key Challenges & Driving Notes

Sonoma Raceway is a technical, narrow, and highly demanding course that rewards precision and car control. Its natural elevation changes and off-camber turns make maintaining balance a challenge.

• Turn 2 & Turn 3: Off-camber and uphill, these turns require precise throttle control.
• The Carousel (Turns 5 & 6): A long, sweeping downhill left that tests tire grip—used only in the full layout.
• Turn 11 Hairpin: A heavy braking zone and the best passing opportunity.
• Elevation: With a 160 ft (49 m) total elevation change, managing weight transfer is critical.
• Surface: The track has low grip and can be punishing on tires, especially during longer races.
• "Chute" Layout: Skips the Carousel for a faster lap—used in NASCAR’s Toyota/Save Mart 350.
• Pit Lane: Tight entry and exit demand planning during strategy plays.