Phoenix has had a long history with what is known as “open wheel racing,” dating back to 1915 when the race was held on a dirt oval at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. When it was built in 1964, the races moved to Phoenix International Raceway. Traditionally, two races ran every year, one in the spring and the other in the fall.
This year, on April 28, 2017, Avondale is set to receive the IndyCar Series for the practice and qualifying rounds of the Desert Diamond West Valley Grand Prix as part of the Verizon IndyCar Series. The actual race—250 miles of short-track racing—takes place from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. the following evening, on Saturday, the 29th, under the lights at PIR.
Phoenix International Raceway has been hosting auto-racing fans, from NASCAR to Formula One, since the 1960s, and with all that the Valley has to offer, including fantastic weather, a wide variety of hotel accommodations, terrific restaurants, affordable car rentals, and all four major professional sports leagues, it is no wonder the owners of PIR, International Speedway Corp, have embarked on an almost $200 million renovation, set for completion at the end of 2018.
Following the accomplishment of the $400 million renovations to Daytona International Speedway, the owners of PIR, International Speedway Corp., turned their attention to Phoenix. There is no doubt, the visitor experience is going to be greatly improved with new grandstands, a completely redesigned infield, upgraded seating—from benches to individual 20” seats with cup holders—new souvenir areas and restrooms, new Fan Zone, and five new garages that feature Driver interaction opportunities. Once completed, the renovations will bring the grandstand capacity to 45,000.
“Phoenix Raceway provides a one-of-a-kind setting for some of the most exciting and thrilling races that the sport has to offer,” said ISC Chief Executive Officer Lesa France Kennedy in a statement released by ISC. “This project will further enhance that experience and ensure that the venue continues to be a treasured destination for race fans.” Giving west coast race fans the opportunity to enjoy a state-of-the-art facility, including the hosting of two NASCAR races each year, is a great gift for the Valley of the Sun and all racing addicts.
And even though the renovations have just begun, Phoenix International Raceway knows how to keep racecar fans happy. Fans attending the Desert Diamond West Valley Phoenix Grand Prix this year can partake in the Vintage Autograph Session and receive autographs from some favorite former IndyCar drivers. Additionally, live music from multi-platinum rock group Eve 6 will be performing on the Main Stage at 4:30 p.m. MST on Saturday, April 29.
For large groups, looking to save on parking and gas by riding together, consider renting a large SUV. PHOENIX DISCOUNT Van & SUV Rental is running a special with the base rate starting at $389 a week, not including fees and local taxes. If you are coming into town and just need a basic car to get you to and from your hotel to the races, consider Phoenix Car Rental. They are offering a low, base rate of $129 per week, plus fees and local taxes. By renting off-airport, you avoid paying the airport concession fees. Don’t have a credit card? Not a problem. Phoenix Car Rental and PHOENIX DISCOUNT Van & SUV Rental do not require a credit card or even a Debit Card to rent from them. They accept cash as the form of payment and for a deposit.
Come to Phoenix and enjoy our fine weather, fabulous food, great racing, and low rental car rates.
Phoenix International Raceway is located at125 S. Avondale Blvd., Avondale, Arizona, 85323, a short 20-minute distance from our west Phoenix location: 3625 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85019.
