ISM Raceway

Track News and Announcements

Desert Diamond Casinos to sponsor XFINITY race at ISM Raceway: ISM Raceway and Desert Diamond Casinos and Entertainment today announced a multi-year partnership that will give Desert Diamond the naming rights to one of the Raceway's two new Canyons, the immersive entrances created as part of the recently completed ISM Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar. As part of its naming rights deal, Desert Diamond Casinos and Entertainment will also become the title sponsor of the NASCAR Xfinity Series semifinal playoff race at ISM Raceway in November 2019 and November 2020.[More](1-13-2018)

Kyle Busch won the Can-Am 500(k) Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at ISM Raceway. The win is his 8th win of 2018, 2nd win at Phoenix and 51st career win.
#2-Keselowski finished 2nd followed by #42-Larson, #10-Almirola, #4-Harvick, #1-McMurray, #6-Kenseth, #3-Dillon, #24-Byron, and #43-Wallace.
#4-Harvick, #18-Busch, #22-Logano, and #78-Truex, Jr will compete for the Championship next weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Several playoff drivers had trouble during the race:
Pole winner #4-Harvick led the first 72 laps of the race, but had a tire go down just before the end of stage 1. He had to pit, lost a lap and fell to 30th place. He later got the free pass and worked his way back to the front to finish 5th.
#22-Logano brought out the caution on lap 95 after a spin. He could not continue and finished 37th.
#14-Bowyer blew a tire on lap 133, hit the wall and could not go on. He finished 35th.
#41-Busch led 52 laps, but passed the pace car coming on to pit road on lap 135 and was penalized one lap. He got the free pass on lap 228 and run near the front until he was involved in an accident with Hamlin and Elliott with 43 laps remaining. The team could not repair the car and he finished 32nd.
Stage 1 was won by #9-Elliott, finished 23rd.
Stage 2 was won by #18-Busch, who won.
There were 15 lead changes among 8 drivers and 10 cautions for 61 yellow flag laps. There were two late red flags for track cleanup, one with 46 laps remaining and one with 25 to go.
The average speed of the race was: 98.354mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, laps led, cautions and more at:
Unofficial Race Results (pdf)
Cumulative Report (pdf)
Penalty Report (pdf)
Drivers Points Standing
Owners Points Standings

American Medical Response named official medical transportation provider at ISM Raceway: ISM Raceway announced today that it has enlisted longtime medical services provider American Medical Response (AMR) as the Official Medical Transportation Provider for the Raceway. As part of the multi-year agreement, the infield care center at ISM Raceway will also officially become the AMR Care Center. The new AMR Care Center was unveiled during a special ceremony earlier today, leading into ISM Raceway's Opening Weekend and the Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series semifinal playoff race on Sunday, November 11. [More](11-9-2018)

WWE's Matt Hardy to drive pace car at ISM Raceway: This Sunday, November 11, WWE Superstar Matt Hardy will lead the field to the green flag in the Toyota Camry Official Pace Car as the Honorary Pace Car Driver for the start of the Can-Am 500. The race will take place on the final day of ISM Raceway's Opening Weekend celebration. [More](11-8-2018)

Chris Janson in concert at Phoenix: ISM Raceway is thrilled to announce that platinum-selling artist Chris Janson will headline the O'Reilly Auto Parts Pre-Race Party on Sunday, Nov. 11, prior to the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Can-Am 500. The INfield party will kick off as Janson takes the stage at 10:30 a.m.[More](11-3-2018)

O'Reilly Auto Parts sponsoring ISM Raceway's start/finish line: ISM Raceway and longtime sponsor O'Reilly Auto Parts today announced an expanded partnership that will give O'Reilly sponsorship of the track's iconic crescent near the new start/finish line. Similar to the field or tri-oval grass seen at other tracks on the NASCAR circuit, ISM Raceway's new crescent is a space expanding over 100,000 square feet, created between the race track and the new pit road when pit road was moved further into the infield to create optimal sightlines for fans in the grandstands.[More](11-1-2018)

Truck Series to open garage at ISM Raceway: 300 fans with INfield access will have the opportunity to tour garage and meet drivers.[More](10-29-2018)

ISM Raceway unveils exclusive Matt Kenseth bobblehead: Promotional giveaway for first 1,500 fans in the INfield for the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, November 11.[More](10-26-2018)

Julie Giese named President of ISM Raceway: International Speedway Corporation announced that Julie Giese, Managing Director of Business Operations for ISC Design & Development, has been promoted to President of ISM Raceway. Beginning in November 2018, Giese will assume oversight of promotion and operation of the all-new ISM Raceway. Giese's first major event, the Can-Am 500, will be part of the Raceway's Opening Weekend on November 9, 10 and 11.[More](10-23-2018)

Whelen Engineering to sponsor XFINITY race at Phoenix: ISM Raceway announced today that Whelen Engineering will serve as the title sponsor of the NASCAR Xfinity Series semifinal playoff race at ISM Raceway on Saturday, November 10th. The Whelen Trusted to Perform 200 will be the first Xfinity Series race officially held at the track following its two-year, $178 million modernization project, part of Opening Weekend on November 9, 10 and 11. The sponsorship marks a continued commitment to the modernization of ISM Raceway by Whelen, which has also been heavily involved in the development of the lighting system for the new, cactus-shaped flag stand which will mark the new location of the start/finish line.[More](10-16-2018)

New infield amenities to elevate fan experience at ISM Raceway: New amenities available to fans include the Miller Lite Beer Garden, Portacool Chill Zone and the Modern Margarita Tequila Bar[More](10-6-2018)

ISM Raceway offering new food and beverage options: ISM Raceway unveiled a series of enhanced food and beverage offerings located throughout the new grandstand mezzanine as part of the ISM Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar. Fans will get a first taste of these new offerings at Opening Weekend on November 9, 10 and 11 featuring the Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Semi-Final race. These new convenient locations will feature expanded beverage and menu choices, and more social settings for restaurant and bar service.[More](9-20-2018)

Skeet Ulrich named grand marshal at ISM Raceway: Actor Skeet Ulrich will say the most famous words in Motorsports to kick off the start of the Can-Am 500 at the new ISM Raceway, and serve as Grand Marshal for the track's Opening Weekend Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series playoff Semi-Final race on Sunday, Nov. 11.[More](9-6-2018)

Sperber leaving ISM (Phoenix) Raceway: Bryan Sperber's last act as president of ISM Raceway could be to figuratively spike the ball in Gatorade Victory Lane after the Nov. 11 Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race. It turns out that celebration will include not only the race winner but the end of Sperber's 16-year tenure at the former Phoenix International Raceway and completion of a $178 million transformation that many believe will make it the second-nicest track in the country with modern amenities and facilities for fans, sponsors and competitors.[More](8-21-2018)

ISM Raceway partners with Modern Margarita for INfield bar: Two-time DAYTONA 500 champion Michael Waltrip, Modern Margarita CEO Glynn Gross and ISM Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced yesterday afternoon, at an event at local restaurant Modern Margarita, the Modern Margarita & Tequila Bar, a brand new bar which will be a part of the new INfield opening in November 2018.[More](7-27-2018)

Scoring tower at ISM Raceway goes down: The Scoring Tower demolition was a key moment in the track's renovation project.[More](4-23-2018)

ISM Raceway fall tickets on sale: ISM Raceway has announced that tickets for semifinal race of the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series season, the Can-Am 500, are now on sale. Tickets are available on ISMRaceway.com, by calling 866-408-RACE (7223) or at the ISM Raceway ticket office.[More](3-14-2018)

Kevin Harvick won the Ticket Guardian 500(k) Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at ISM Raceway. The win is his 3rd consecutive of 2018, 9th win at Phoenix and 40th career win. It is the first time in his career that he has won three races in a row.
#18-Busch finished 2nd followed by #9-Elliott, #11-Hamlin, pole sitter #78-Truex, Jr., #14-Bowyer, #10-Almirola, #19-Suarez, #20-Jones, and #41-Busch
Stage 1 was won by #18-Busch, finished 2nd.
Stage 2 was won by #41-Busch, finished 10th.
There were 15 lead changes among 9 drivers and 6 cautions for 36 yellow flag laps.
The average speed of the race was: 108.073mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, laps led, cautions and more at:
Unofficial Race Results (pdf)
Cumulative Report (pdf)
Penalty Report (pdf)
Unofficial Drivers Points Standings page (pdf)
Unofficial Owners Points Standings page (pdf)

Keselowski, Larson among ROLL-BAR appearances at ISM Raceway: The new ROLL-BAR is a fan-focused hospitality addition to race day. Along with driver appearances, club members enjoy catered food, beverages, preferred parking and pre-race pit access. The ROLL-BAR will now be in its permanent home, the newly built Wheelhouse located behind the Bobby Allison grandstands next to Gate 2.[More](3-2-2018)

Miller Lite named official beer of ISM Raceway: ISM Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced today a new multi-year agreement with Crescent Crown to make Miller Lite the new official beer of the race track, beginning at the TicketGuardian 500 race weekend on March 9-11. Together, Miller Lite and ISM Raceway will be partnering to create a fully branded food and beverage experience in the new infield Fan Zone, set to open in November 2018.[More](2-6-2018)

Ticket Guardian sponsoring ISM Raceway spring race: ISM Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced today a partnership with TicketGuardian, a leading mobile ticketing insurance provider, to deliver fans an even better ticket buying experience, in addition to the title sponsor of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race on March 11, the TicketGuardian 500.[More](1-19-2018)

Matt Kenseth wins the Can-Am 500(k) Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway for his 1st win of 2017, 2nd win at Phoenix and 39th career win.
#24-Elliott finished 2nd followed by #78-Truex, Jr. #77-Jones, #4-Harvick, #1-McMurray, #18-Busch, #17-Stenhouse, Jr., #42-Almriola, and #88-Earnhardt, Jr.
#24-Elliott took the lead with 28 laps left in the race and looked like he could hold on to win and clinch a spot in the Championship race, but the tires went away and he was passed by Kenseth with 9 laps left.
The four drivers that will compete for the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Championship next week at Homestead are #78-Martin Truex, Jr., #18-Kyle Busch, #4-Kevin Harvick, and #2-Keselowski.
#11-Hamlin, #21-Blaney, #24-Elliott, and #24-Johnson were eliminated from the playoffs.
Their points have been reset to 5000 each. They will not receive stage points at Homestead. The highest finishing driver will clinch the championship.
#48-Johnson cut at tire at the end of stage 2 and hit the wall. He finished 39th.
With 37 laps to go, #11-Hamlin had a tire go down following contact with #24-Elliott. He finished 35th. Hamlin had finished 2nd in the first stage, won the second stage and had gotten into position to make the Championship race before the accident.
Stage 1 was won by #42-Larson, but he lost an engine during stage 2 and finished 40th.
Stage 2 was won by #11-Hamlin, finished 35th.
There were 9 lead changes among 5 drivers and 7 cautions for 41 yellow flag laps. There was a short red flag for track cleanup with 58 laps remaining after a broken brake rotor off #37-Buescher's car flew into the SAFER barrier and caught it on fire.
The average speed of the race was: 105.534mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, laps led, cautions and more at (all pdfs):
Unofficial Race Results
Cumulative Report
Penalty Report
Unofficial Drivers Points Standings
Unofficial Owners Points Standings
Official Race & Points Report

Phoenix Raceway bringing ZOOMTOWN market to campground: Phoenix Raceway is partnering with the United Food Bank and Levy Restaurants to bring the ZOOMTOWN Market Supporting the United Food Bank to offer race fans who are camping during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Can-Am 500 weekend a one-stop shop for all their race weekend necessities.[More](11-3-2017)

Farmboy introduces 'Farm to Fan' concept at Phoenix: Introducing a new concept to race day, Phoenix Raceway has partnered with Farmboy Food Company to bring an exciting new menu featuring farm-fresh, local ingredients to the concession stand for fans to enjoy at November's Can-Am 500 race weekend.[More](11-2-2017)

Phoenix camping sold out: Phoenix Raceway, well known for its top-notch camping experience, is pleased to announce that all camping is sold out for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Can-Am 500 race weekend on Nov. 10-12. Due to the high demand for reserved camping spots, the track has transitioned to fully reserved camping, and no unreserved spaces are available.[More](10-19-2017)

Phoenix Raceway celebrates topping out: Phoenix Raceway installed one of the highest steel beams as part of the Phoenix Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar along with its partner Okland Construction. NASCAR Hall of Fame driver Rusty Wallace, longtime Phoenix Raceway season ticket holders and government officials joined Okland Construction team members and Phoenix Raceway staff to celebrate this important milestone in the project.[More](10-18-2017)

Phoenix Raceway to host Tough Mudder Arizona: This March, Tough Mudder, Inc. will bring a different kind of race to Phoenix Raceway, dropping obstacles and mud where race cars normally reign supreme. The world's leading obstacle course racing organization announced that they will bring Tough Mudder Arizona to Phoenix Raceway on March 24-25, 2018, featuring 10 of the toughest miles on the planet with more than 20 world-class obstacles spread across the all-terrain Raceway property to test both the physical and mental strength of competitors.[More](10-9-2017)

Ingenuity Sun Media to get naming rights to Phoenix Raceway UPDATE: What's in a name? For Phoenix International Raceway to become ISM Raceway starting in 2018, a total investment that could approach $100 million over 10 years, including installation of leading-edge digital technology designed to enhance the at-track experience for fans and corporate partners alike. ISM - Ingenuity Sun Media - will pay an annual single-figure million-dollar fee during the next decade for the track's first-ever naming-rights sponsorship, azcentral sports has learned. The official announcement of ISM Raceway is scheduled for Tuesday.[More](9-25-2017)
UPDATE Phoenix Raceway and ISM Connect, a pioneer in smart venue technology, today announced a multi-year partnership that includes naming rights for the Raceway's modernized venue as well as the installation of a groundbreaking digital fan engagement experience. Beginning in 2018, the venue will be known as ISM Raceway. ISM's 360° Connect network will provide the modernized venue with advanced, robust technology and data capabilities to create meaningful connections between fans, partners and the venue itself. This will be done through the use of digital display screens, interactive experiences, social media integrations and a mobile app that will give fans access to unique content, in-seat ordering, and more.(Phoenix Raceway)(9-28-2017)

Phoenix's luxury suite experience 'Curve' to debut in November: As part of the Phoenix Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar, Phoenix Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced today that the new, luxury suite experience Curve will be unveiled during the Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series semifinal race weekend on Nov. 10-12. Curve is the first element of the modernization project that will be available to fans.[More](9-6-2017)

UFC lightweight Justin Gaethje to drive honorary pace car at Phoenix Arizona native, five-time World Series of Fighting Champion and current UFC lightweight Justin "The Highlight" Gaethje will lead the field to the green flag behind the wheel of the Official 2017 Toyota Camry Pace Car at the start of the Can-Am 500 at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, Nov. 12. As the honorary pace car driver, the 28-year old mixed martial artist will lead the warm up lap around the one-mile oval. Gaethje owns an impressive 18-0 mixed martial arts record after turning professional in 2011 and joined the World Series of Fighting in 2013, where he became Lightweight Champion. He defended his championship title a total of five times before vacating to join the UFC in 2017. Gaethje's appearance was the result of a partnership between Phoenix Raceway and Niner Sports & Entertainment. In addition to his duties behind the wheel, Gaethje will make a promotional appearance at Phoenix Raceway prior to the race on Sunday, Nov. 12. For more information on timing and other celebrity appearances as well tickets to all events throughout the Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series weekend at Phoenix Raceway are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the Phoenix Raceway ticket office.(PhoenixRaceway.com)[Read More Here](8-28-2017)

Sugar Ray to perform pre-race concert at Phoenix: Fans attending the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, Nov. 12 at Phoenix Raceway will be entertained with live music before the start of the race as multiplatinum rock band Sugar Ray will perform a pre-race concert in the DC Solar Power Pavilion at 10:30 a.m. (local).[More](8-21-2017)

Phoenix engaged in naming-rights talks: Phoenix Raceway is engaged in naming-rights talks as the ISC-owned track is in the midst of a $178M renovation that is slated for completion late next year.[More](7-25-2017)

Christmas in July with Phoenix Raceway: There are only 110 days left until the Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race weekend and what better way to celebrate the second half of the NASCAR season than with unbeatable 'Christmas in July' offerings exclusively at Phoenix Raceway. The popular fall race features a full weekend of NASCAR action, including semifinal racing from the top-three series in NASCAR.[More](7-25-2017)

Phoenix fall tickets on sale: Phoenix Raceway announced that tickets for the semifinal race in the Playoffs for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, the Can-Am 500, are on-sale. Tickets start at just $35 and can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223). The popular fall race features a full weekend of NASCAR action, including semifinal racing from the top-three series in NASCAR. Phoenix Raceway will once again be home to all the Series' elimination races that will set the final four to compete for a series championship trophy the following weekend.[More](6-12-2017)

Steel Installation begins for Phoenix Raceway Project On Tuesday [May 30] morning, the first piece of steel was installed for the new grandstand structure as part of the $178 million Phoenix Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar. The beam featured a special message "Best Wishes from Daytona," signifying a symbolic passing of the torch from Phoenix Raceway's partner facility Daytona International Speedway, which also recently completed a significant redevelopment project - DAYTONA Rising. (PhoenixRaceway.com)(6-2-2017)

April possible date for future spring NASCAR PIR race The nearly $180 million facility redevelopment project at Phoenix International Raceway might not be the only big change eventually coming to the Avondale track. Preliminary discussions have taken place between PIR and NASCAR about moving the track's spring weekend to April from the mid-march March date it's had since 2015. Nothing is likely to happen for next year, but there's little doubt PIR would eventually love to reclaim the mid-April Saturday evening date it enjoyed from 2005-10.(Arizona Republic)[More](3-20-2017)

Phoenix Raceway Fan Guide Phoenix Raceway is encouraging fans to come out early and enjoy the full NASCAR experience during the Camping World 500 event weekend, March 17-19. In addition to the Camping World 500 on Sunday, March 19 at 12:30 p.m. (local), the race weekend at Phoenix Raceway will include the DC Solar 200 NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, March 18 at 1:30 p.m. and Gatorade Pole Day on Friday, March 17 featuring Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying.
FAN ACTIVITIES & GUIDELINES A NASCAR weekend at Phoenix Raceway is an experience like no other. Expect exciting racing on the track and a fun party atmosphere throughout the raceway. Whether it be a die-hard fan cheering on their favorite driver or a first-time fan catching NASCAR fever, Phoenix Raceway is the place for race day excitement and entertainment. Fans can expect to have a great time while taking part in the interactive displays on the DC Solar Power Pavilion (formerly Fan Midway) or experiencing great live entertainment on one of the many stages.
A full list of fan guidelines, including when to arrive, what to expect, recommended attire, what fans can or cannot bring and a full list of activities scheduled throughout race weekend is available by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com and selecting the "Visiting PIR" tab at the top of the homepage and browsing to the "PIR 101: Raceday FAQ's" page.
Tickets to all events throughout Camping World 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series weekend at Phoenix Raceway are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the Phoenix Raceway ticket office.(PR)[More](3-16-2017)

Cast of movie "Car Dogs" to be honorary race officials at Phoenix The NASCAR Camping World 500 race weekend at Phoenix Raceway is all about fast cars and the state of Arizona. It seems only appropriate that six members from the cast of the upcoming movie "Car Dogs" will be on hand this weekend to serve as honorary race officials for Sunday's Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Camping World 500, which starts at 12:30pm/et. The movie, which is scheduled to be released in select theaters on March 24, 2017, has many Arizona ties. Not only is the movie set in Scottsdale, but it also was shot there. The movie was written by Scottsdale native Mark King, while the director, Adam Collis, is currently a visiting professor of film at Arizona State University in Tempe. King and Collis will be two of the six who will take part in Sunday's race festivities. The others are cast members Josh Hopkins, Dash Mihok, Alessandra Torresani and Chris Mulkey. The film also stars comedian superstar George Lopez, Oscar nominee Nia Vardalos ("My Big Fat Greek Wedding") and TV star Patrick J. Adams ("Suits").(PhoenixRaceway.com)[More](3-17-2017)

Phoenix Stats and Notes - ESPN Kevin Harvick has been dominant at Phoenix recently. Although he didn't win there last November, he has won 5 of the last 7 races at the track and has led a huge chunk of laps. #42-Kyle Larson has finished in the top 3 in 4 of his last 5 races, a streak that started at Phoenix last November. Despite having not won a race or a stage this season, Larson is 2nd in points, 1 point behind #2-Brad Keselowski. Larson has finished every stage in the top 10, except for the final stage in the Daytona 500 (12th).[More](3-17-2017)

Statistical Advance: Analyzing the Camping World 500 A look at some of the top statistical performers at Phoenix Raceway going into the Camping World 500 on March 19.
Top 10 Active Driver Ratings at Phoenix
#48-Jimmie Johnson........................ 111.2
#4-Kevin Harvick........................... 110.7
#24-Chase Elliott............................. 103.9
#18-Kyle Busch................................. 98.4
#41-Kurt Busch................................. 98.3
#11-Denny Hamlin............................. 95.6
#2-Brad Keselowski......................... 92.4
#22-Joey Logano............................... 92.4
#20-Matt Kenseth.............................. 89.0
#88-Dale Earnhardt Jr....................... 88.7
Note: Driver Ratings compiled from 2005-2016 races (24 total) among active drivers at Phoenix Raceway. See the full analysis here (3-15-2017)

Phoenix Raceway partners with Chick-fil-A: The cows are coming to Phoenix Raceway - Chick-fil-A and Phoenix Raceway launched a partnership that will have race fans seeing spots throughout the Camping World 500 NASCAR race weekend on March 17-19. Fans won't miss the famous Chick-fil-A cow on the restaurant's hot air balloon located behind Turn 2 of the one-mile oval. The partnership with the restaurants of the Phoenix region also brings Chick-fil-A's famous cows to the race track where fans can see them at their display on the DC Solar Power Pavilion.[More](3-14-2017)

Daniel Suarez $19 ticket package at Phoenix: 2016 NASCAR XFINITY Series Champion Daniel Suárez will be making his Phoenix Raceway debut in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series on Sunday, March 19, and what better way to celebrate than with $19 tickets to the Camping World 500. Located in the Lower Bryan Grandstand, a special ticket package is available to celebrate his first appearance. The ticket package includes a Daniel Suárez autographed hero card (limited to the first 250) and one lucky buyer and a guest will be entered into a sweepstakes to win a meet and greet with Suárez on Sunday[More](3-13-2017)

Phoenix Raceway celebrates St. Patrick's Day with Lucky Leprechaun Dog: In honor of St. Patrick's Day, fans coming to the Camping World 500 race weekend March 17-19 are encouraged to take a bite out of the Lucky Leprechaun Dog, the newest signature item of Phoenix Raceway. Coming in at a whopping 950 calories, the Lucky Leprechaun Dog is a deep-fried gourmet hot dog covered in corn beef and smothered in lucky green bacon mustard sauce served on a traditional bun.[More](3-12-2017)

Johnson to appear at Phoenix's Roll-Bar Club: 2016 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson has officially been added to Phoenix Raceway's Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club star-studded lineup for a moderated question and answer session before the Camping World 500 on Sunday, March 19.[More](3-11-2017)

Fans can celebrate Richard Petty's 80th birthday with special ticket package at Phoenix: In celebration of Richard Petty's 80th birthday in 2017, Phoenix Raceway is offering fans a special $43 grandstand ticket for the Camping World 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, March 19. Fans will have a chance to say "Happy Birthday" to the "The King" when Petty makes an appearance on the DC Solar Power Pavilion.[More](3-8-2017)

Phoenix Raceway bringing mobile gaming to race weekend: Phoenix Raceway, a subsidiary of the International Speedway Corporation, announced today that FunWall has signed a letter of intent to bring FunWall's proprietary mobile social gaming platform to the world of motorsports. With this partnership, the track will be the first motorsports venue to offer social mobile gaming that is fully integrated into the race day experience.[More](2-24-2017)

Colt Ford in concert at Phoenix: Race fans attending the Camping World 500 on Sunday, March 19 at Phoenix Raceway will be treated to a performance by country music star Colt Ford before the green flag drops. The concert, which will take place on the Fan Midway area at 10:30am/mt, is just one part of race-day excitement that is free to all fans with a grandstand ticket for the Camping World 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, March 19. [More](2-22-2017)

"Jimmie Johnson Day" celebrated in Phoenix: Seven-time Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson took Governor Doug Ducey on a ride along in the #48 on Thursday, Feb. 16. The ride around the State Capitol in Downtown Phoenix ended with a ceremonial burnout followed by a proclamation from the Governor to celebrate "Jimmie Johnson Day" throughout the State of Arizona. Johnson was in town to promote the upcoming Camping World 500 NASCAR race weekend at Phoenix Raceway on March 17-19. Johnson received the official proclamation from the Governor, and gave him autographed racing gloves worn in the Nov. 2016 Can-Am 500 in return. To celebrate "Jimmie Johnson Day", Phoenix Raceway is offering special champion-sized savings for the Camping World 500 on March 19. For 48 hours only, fans can purchase an Upper Foyt Grandstand ticket for just $48 - a savings of over 46%. The Jimmie Johnson Day offer expires Saturday, February 18, 2017 at 11:59pm or while supplies last. Tickets are available by calling a Phoenix Raceway representative at 866-408-RACE (7223) or by visiting online.(PIR)(2-17-2017)

Phoenix unveils details of modernization project: Phoenix Raceway, together with its parent company, International Speedway Corporation, announced the details of a $178 million modernization of the race track with a variety of enhanced amenities for fans, teams, sponsors and other stakeholders.
"This is a great day for ISC and Phoenix Raceway, but more importantly, for racing fans in the state of Arizona and around the world," ISC Chief Executive Officer Lesa France Kennedy said. "A project of this magnitude is monumental for our company as we get to work enhancing the experience of the great fans who love to watch our races in Phoenix and enjoy this beautiful area. Having Phoenix Raceway within our prestigious stable of venues always has been a tremendous asset and source of pride for us. We are thrilled to create a best-in-class facility in Phoenix, and we're confident it will grow the fan base here and further serve as a destination track for motorsports fans everywhere."
Among the many highlights of the modernization project is a completely redesigned infield featuring a first-of-its-kind Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Garage Fan Zone, placing fans face-to-face with the superstars of the sport. Phoenix Raceway's start/finish line will be repositioned in Turn 2 just before the track's well-known dog leg. Other new highlights include a new pedestrian tunnel connecting the infield to the new seating areas featuring in-seat Wi-Fi connectivity.
DC Solar, entitlement partner of Phoenix Raceway's spring NASCAR XFINITY Series race, the DC Solar 200, will serve as the title sponsor for the modernization project (Phoenix Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar) as well as a multi-year sponsor of the redesigned Midway. The repositioned start/finish line will enhance the competition near one of the most challenging areas of the track while adding to the excitement during key race moments such as restarts and the closing laps. The modernization project also includes the installation of new/upgraded seating and hospitality areas near the current Turn 2 location. A new grandstand will be built alongside upgraded seats in the existing Bobby Allison Grandstand (both featuring individual chair back stadium seats with armrests), complete with modern amenities such as several new escalators and elevators, additional restrooms and concessions and a redesigned Midway conveniently located near the seating areas.(Phoenix International Raceway)(1-30-2017)

Henry Cejudo driving pace car at Phoenix: Phoenix native, Olympic gold medalist and current UFC flyweight Henry "The Messenger" Cejudo will lead the field to the green flag behind the wheel of the Official 2017 Chevrolet Camaro Pace Car at the start of the Camping World 500 at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, March 19. As the official pace car driver, the 29-year old mixed martial artist will take an honorary lap around the one-mile oval. Cejudo, who attended Maryvale High School in Phoenix before graduating from Coronado High School in Colorado Springs, Colo., won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. At age 21, he became the youngest Olympic wrestling champion in U.S. history, earning him the recognition of being named one of Arizona's ten most fascinating people by the Arizona Republic in 2008. After signing with UFC in 2014, Cejudo has earned a 10-2-0 record and is currently ranked No. 2 flyweight in the world. Known for his wrestling technique, he also appeared as one of the coaches, opposite Joseph Benavidez on The Ultimate Fighter 24.(PIR)(1-26-2017)

Phoenix Raceway to Host Open NASCAR Test Jan 31st: Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series stars will appear at Phoenix Raceway for the first time in 2017 when the track hosts an open test session on Tuesday, Jan. 31. Phoenix Raceway will open its gates to fans from 9:00am to 3:00pm with general seating in the Bobby Allison Grandstand. Free parking is available and fans are asked to make a $5 donation to Phoenix Raceway Charities for admission.
Several 2016 NASCAR Chase contenders including #4-Kevin Harvick, #22-Joey Logano, #19-Daniel Suarez (instead of #20-Matt Kenseth) and #3-Austin Dillon are scheduled to be participate, while #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. will be making his first public appearance behind the wheel in six months.
With a new series sponsor, manufacturer changes and new faces to the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, there will be plenty of excitement when the drivers look for valuable track time ahead of the 2017 season and Phoenix Raceway's Camping World 500 on Sunday, March 19. Tickets for the Camping World 500 start at just $25, and 2017 season tickets are available beginning at $99. Individual tickets and season tickets are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the PIR ticket office. Phoenix Raceway Charities is a Donor Advised Fund under The NASCAR Foundation, and its mission is to accelerate the development of children in Arizona by supporting education, children and families of our military and military veterans, and life enrichment programs for children and families in our community.(PIR)(1-12-2017)

Major PIR upgrade approval said to be imminent UPDATE: It appears the long-awaited renovation of Phoenix International Raceway is at hand. Directors of International Speedway Corp., PIR's parent company, met in recent days and are believed to have approved plans to modernize the Avondale facility, azcentral sports was told exclusively by two motorsports industry sources with knowledge of the situation. The sources requested not to be identified by name. It's believed the cost of such a major project would be between $150-$200 million and likely would take about two years to complete. For the first time in several years, Sunday's Can-Am 500 isn't a grandstand sellout. PIR has lagged well behind the Valley trend to build new or upgrade existing sports venues.(Arizona Republic)(11-10-2016)
UPDATE: Phoenix International Raceway has submitted renovation plans that includes moving the start/finish line to what is now Turn 2, although NASCAR says nothing has been finalized on that matter. The track submitted a site plan for expansion last week to the city of Avondale, Arizona, Brett Harris, chief building official, confirmed to NBC Sports. Construction is expected to begin in 2017 and end in late 2018. Harris said his office typically takes about three weeks to review such plans. Once approved, track officials will be able to submit construction documents. Harris noted that changes still could be made by the track. Officials from Phoenix International Raceway and International Speedway Corp. did not return messages for comment.
Among the changes in the track's submitted plan:
- The start/finish line is shown to be in what is now Turn 2.
- All the frontstretch grandstands would be eliminated and replaced by an elevated RV parking lot and have additional parking behind it.
- The Allison grandstand in Turn 2 will be extended to go through the entire turn.
- Pit road will be moved closer to the infield and have a tighter radius. That will allow additional space between the track and pit road.
-There would be five new garages for competitors.
- The media center would be moved from its present location across from the current start/finish line to just beyond Turn 2.
- The infield care center would move from behind the current media center to between what is now Turns 3 and 4.
- Victory Lane would be moved behind pit road to spot between what is now Turns 1 and 2.(NBC Sports)(11-18-2016)

Joey Logano wins at Phoenix: #22-Joey Logano won the Can-Am 500(k) Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway running 12 extra laps in two NASCAR Overtimes for his 3rd win of the season, 1st win at Phoenix and 17th career win. Logano led 58 of the 324 laps.
#18-Busch finished 2nd followed by #42-Larson, #4-Harvick, #41-Busch, #88-Bowman (pole winner), #11-Hamlin, #21-Blaney, #24-Elliott and #27-Menard.
With two laps to go and #20-Kenseth having a 3 second lead over #88-Bowman, #95-McDowell spun out and hit the wall bring out the caution with a lap to go in the race. NASCAR Overtime was implemented and after the cleanup the race restarted on lap 314 with Kenseth on the outside lane and #88-Bowman on the inside. On the restart 3rd place #18-Busch tried to get around #88-Bowman and bumped the #88 Chevy, causing it to wiggle and go low. The leader, #20-Kenseth was just ahead of Bowman and appeared to come down on the #88, who had no place to go with the inside wall to his left, making contact causing Kenseth's car to spin out and hitting the wall. #22-Logano took the lead and the field was again placed under caution. After the track was cleaned #22-Logano led the field to the green with #18-Busch in 2nd. Logano took the lead and held on to it with Busch finishing 2nd. Kenseth, who looked like he was going to win and advance to the Championship 4, finished 21st and was eliminated from The Chase. Logano's win allowed him to advance to the Championship 4 and Kyle Busch made it on points in the 4th and final spot.
#88-Bowman, the pole winner, led the most laps with 194 and was up front for most of the race until tangling with Kenseth on the first NASCAR Overtime restart, finishing 6th.
#48-Johnson had run in the top 10 early in the race before having to serving a penalty (losing a lap) for "Pulling up to pit", hence passing the caution car as entering pit road. On lap 219, #3-Dillon had a slow restart with #16-Biffle getting into the back of the #3 and causing Dillon's car to spin. When Biffle checked up, #48-Johnson hit the #16 car hard, doing serious damage to the car. Johnson was able to get the car repaired and run another 77 laps but finished 38th. Since Johnson had already won a race in the Round of 8, he advanced in the Chase to the Championship 4 at Homestead.
Four drivers advance to the CHAMPIONSHIP Race of the Chase at Homestead: #48-Johnson, #19-Edwards, #22-Logano, #18-Busch.
Eliminated from the Chase: #11-Hamlin, #20-Kenseth, #4-Harvick, #41-Busch.
There were 8 lead changes among 5 drivers and 9 cautions for 53 yellow flag laps.
The average speed of the race was: 102.866mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, laps led, cautions and more [NOTE: money/winnings are no longer reported] at:
Unofficial Race Results (pdf)
Chase Reset Points (pdf)
Lap Summary Report (pdf)
Penalty Report (pdf)
Pit Stop Times (pdf)
See OFFICIAL race results & points standings on the Official Phoenix Race & Points Report (pdf).(11-13-2016)

DC Solar to sponsor Spring XFINITY race at Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced that DC Solar has been named the title sponsor of the track's spring NASCAR XFINITY Series races in 2017 and 2018. The DC Solar 200 for the upcoming NASCAR season will take place on Saturday, March 18. In conjunction with the entitlement, PIR will implement DC Solar's mobile solar generator portfolio throughout the Raceway property. Fans will benefit by the addition of Power Stations - DC Solar's mobile generator-based, table-top stations that provide AC outlets for users to charge their personal devices. The convenience and sustainability of this new product, located throughout the Fan Midway, will increase the overall fan experience and engagement with PIR's newest partner. Phoenix Raceway will also incorporate mobile solar light towers on and around the track for safety and security, as well as traffic control. Not only will the towers reduce overall carbon emissions at the track, a single solar light tower will save over 24 gallons of diesel fuel per tower during the race weekend. Additionally, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will be added so that EV drivers can charge their cars with mobile solar power while attending events. DC Solar has committed to working with other tracks around the NASCAR circuit to integrate their products and technology, including the first-ever solar powered cool down unit on pit road for NASCAR XFINITY Series driver, Brennan Poole.(PIR)(11-12-2016)

Lyft partners as official rideshare of Phoenix Raceway: Phoenix Raceway is proud to offer fans a safe and affordable way to and from the Can-Am 500 race this weekend with Lyft, the fastest growing on-demand transportation service in the US. As the exclusive rideshare provider, Lyft will be promoting the Safe Ride Program with deals throughout the weekend, including a $50 ride credit for new passengers with the code: PIR16. Starting this Friday, Nov. 11 when gates open, race fans can catch their Lyft at a designated pick up and drop off area near Gate 7 at Phoenix Raceway. Tickets for the upcoming NASCAR race weekend are still available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the PIR ticket office.(PIR)(11-11-2016)

Phoenix Raceway celebrates Military and Veterans: Phoenix Raceway will cap off a weekend full of Veterans Day recognition with the first four-plane flyover featuring two F-16 and two F-35 fighter jets from Luke Air Force Base. The fall race at PIR traditionally lands on Veterans Day weekend, and for the 2016 Can-Am 500 race, Phoenix Raceway will recognize veterans both on and off the track. With the help of Luke Air Force Base, Phoenix Raceway will add to the excitement of last year's first F-35 flyover, by not only adding another F-35 but also two F-16 fighter jets. The flyover is scheduled to begin at the conclusion of the national anthem prior to the start of the Can-Am 500. Also, the national anthem for the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, Nov. 13 will be performed by SFC Dana J. Fischl, US Army Military Intelligence Corps Band Training and Operations - Fort Huachuca, during the pre-race ceremonies.
On Thursday, Nov. 10, Phoenix Raceway will team up with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to bring NASCAR drivers to the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series stars Cameron Hayley and Ben Rhodes join NASCAR XFINITY Series drivers Brendan Gaughan and Joey Gase for an autograph session and tour of the Community Living Center where they will visit with local veterans.
Prior to the Lucas Oil 150 on Friday, Nov. 11, Jamie Manker, Acting Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits of the Department of Veterans, will be recognized as an honorary race official. Phoenix Raceway has also worked with long-standing partner Vet Tix to provide race tickets to all branches of currently-serving military and veterans, including family of troops KIA. This year, PIR, along with track partners Anheuser-Busch and Ticket Galaxy, teamed up to provide over 500 tickets to be donated through the Vet Tix program. Please visit VetTix.org for more information. Tickets for the Can-Am 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race start at just $35 and are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the PIR ticket office.(PIR)(11-10-2016)

Arizona Lottery partners up with Phoenix Raceway: Phoenix Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced that the Arizona Lottery has been named the track's official lottery partner ahead of the upcoming Can-Am 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Nov. 13. Race fans attending the upcoming Can-Am 500 weekend at Phoenix Raceway will have the opportunity to stop by the Arizona Lottery ticket trolley on the Fan Midway to purchase lottery tickets from Nov. 11-13. Tickets for the upcoming Can-Am 500 NASCAR race weekend start at just $35. Individual tickets and season tickets are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the PIR ticket office.(PIR)(11-9-2016)

THE OFFSPRING in concert at Phoenix: The first on-track concert at Phoenix Raceway will feature THE OFFSPRING, presented by Can-Am, performing a short set on pit road before the green flag drops for the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, Nov. 13. Fans with an El Sol Pre-Race Pit Pass will have free access to the concert. THE OFFSPRING are Dexter Holland (vocals, guitar), Noodles (guitar), Greg K (bass) and Pete Parada (drums). Among their best-known hits are the rock anthems "Self Esteem," "Come Out And Play (Keep 'Em Separated)." "You're Gonna Go Far Kid," and "The Kids Aren't Alright." The Huntington Beach, California-based band has performed over 1,100 shows across the globe and sold more than 40 million albums worldwide. Their 1994 release Smash remains the highest-selling album of all-time on an independent label.(PIR)(11-8-2016)

Boxer Vinny Paz to serve as Phoenix Grand Marshal: Phoenix Raceway will host a star-studded pre-race ceremony for the semi-final race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup as legendary boxer Vinny Paz will greet drivers on stage as the Grand Marshal prior to the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, Nov. 13. Also, local Olympian Brady Ellison will serve in the same role on Saturday for the Ticket Galaxy 200, joined by Harlem Globetrotter and Phoenix native Anthony "Buckets" Blakes as honorary starter. Vinny "The Pazmanian Devil" Pazienza is known as one of boxing's most charismatic and exciting fighters and will bring the same energy as Grand Marshal for the Can-Am 500. Since his professional debut in 1983, the five-time world champion fighter has earned titles in lightweight, junior middleweight and super middleweight divisions. He has delivered top performances throughout his career, including a victory over Hall of Famer and boxing icon Roberto Duran. Three-time Olympian Brady Ellison, the Grand Marshal of the Ticket Galaxy 200, is a full-time archer coming off an individual bronze and Team USA silver-medal winning performance at the 2016 Rio Olympics.(PIR)(11-5-2016)

Phoenix names official whiskey: Phoenix Raceway announced that Beach Whiskey is the official whiskey of PIR and will be a part of the Can-Am 500 race weekend on Nov. 11-13. Beach Whiskey co-founders include country artist Jake Owen, whose highly-anticipated fifth studio album, American Love, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart and at No. 4 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart. Fans can enjoy Beach Whiskey, as well as signature cocktails, during the Can-Am 500 weekend at Phoenix Raceway by visiting designated bars and beverage locations on the Fan Midway. A reimagined take on the traditionally dark spirit, Beach Whiskey is a versatile, clear American whiskey that can be sipped straight up, on the rocks, as a shooter or in mixed drinks and cocktails. Beach Whiskey embodies the laidback seaside lifestyle with day-drinkable flavor profiles and sea glass-inspired packaging, invoking a new sentiment for American whiskey.(PIR)(11-3-2016)

New start time for Phoenix Truck race: Phoenix Raceway announced today that the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series semi-final race on Friday, Nov. 11 will begin at 8 p.m. MT, with gates now set to open at 9:30 a.m. MT. NASCAR veteran Matt Crafton and 2015 Lucas Oil 150 winner Timothy Peters will take on series wins- leader William Byron and the rest of the Chase contenders to compete for the final four spots in the championship race. Kicking off the weekend at PIR, the race will take place under the lights and will be the first semi-final race for the series championship, as NASCAR recently expanded the Chase format to the Camping World Truck Series for the 2016 season. The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Lucas Oil 150 will air on FS1 at 8 p.m. MT (10 p.m. ET).(Phoenix Raceway )(11-1-2016)

Plenty of entertainment options available at Phoenix: Fans will enjoy a full weekend lineup of entertainment for the Can-Am 500 race weekend at Phoenix Raceway, Nov. 11-13. This fall will feature a new post-race Phoenix Raceway After Dark show with Christopher Shayne on Friday, Nov. 11. PIR mainstays like Harry Luge and METALHEAD will return to Busch Garage all weekend long, while NASCAR's favorite DJ Michaelis will be back to add his unique spin on driver introductions before the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, Nov. 13. Famous for deconstructing popular music, PIR fans know DJ Michaelis for putting his own twist on the traditional driver introductions before the NASCAR Sprint Cup races. Arizona's own Christopher Shayne will highlight Friday's entertainment as he will be performing a post-race concert at the Fan Midway stage immediately following the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Semi-Final Race on Nov. 11. Prior to the Can-Am 500, multiplatinum rock band Hinder will also be performing a free concert for any fan with a grandstand ticket. Race weekend entertainment officially kicks off at the Busch Garage with The Crown Kings on Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:00pm. Hitting the Busch Garage on Thursday night, Harry Luge will take the stage at 9:00pm and will also close out the weekend at Busch Garage with a performance on Saturday night. Georgia Chrome will light up the stage at the Busch Garage on Friday. Also performing at the Busch Garage on Friday will be Arizona's original and best hair band rock show, METALHEAD. Returning to PIR, the local Donny Grubb Band will kick off Saturday evening at Busch Garage with a concert starting at 7:00pm.(PIR)(10-18-2016)

youtheory sponsoring restart zone at Phoenix: Phoenix Raceway announced that the health and beauty supplement brand youtheory has been named the official sponsor of the Restart Zone at PIR for the Can-Am 500 race weekend on Nov. 11-13. The youtheory partnership marks the first sponsored restart zone at the track. Phoenix Raceway also welcomes youtheory as the official health supplement of the track. Youtheory, the leader in nutritional dietary supplement manufacturing, currently sponsors NASCAR XFINITY Series driver Corey LaJoie and his JGL Racing organization for the 2016 season. Fans who purchase tickets to the Can-Am 500 in the official Youtheory Restart Zone are eligible to receive a free special edition youtheory hat to wear as the cars race to the green flag.(PIR)(10-17-2016)

Hinder to perform pre-concert at Phoenix: Fans attending the Can-Am 500 on Sunday, Nov. 13 at Phoenix Raceway will be entertained with live music before the start of the race as multi-platinum rock group Hinder will perform a pre-race concert in the Fan Midway area at 10:30am. The concert, which resulted from a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment, is just one part of race day excitement that is free to all fans with a grandstand ticket for the Can-Am 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.
The Can-Am 500 is the final race in the Round of 8 of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. After the race, the field of championship contenders will be trimmed from eight hopefuls to the final four drivers - the "Phoenix 4" - that will race for the championship the next week. The fall race at PIR has sold out each of the previous five years and tickets for the race are selling faster than ever, but good seats are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com or by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(10-11-2016)

Ticket Galaxy sponsoring Phoenix XFINITY race: Phoenix International Raceway announced Ticket Galaxy as the title sponsor of the track's upcoming November NASCAR XFINITY Series race and as PIR's official secondary market ticket provider. The Ticket Galaxy 200 will serve as the semifinal race in the Chase for NASCAR XFINITY Series title and air on NBC Sports Network in primetime on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 5:30 p.m. local time). Through a multi-year agreement, Ticket Galaxy will also become the official secondary market ticket partner of Phoenix International Raceway, as well as Auto Club Speedway, Chicagoland Speedway and Michigan International Speedway. The Connecticut-based company established in 1988 adds motorsports to their sports sponsorship profile that includes some of the top teams and venues in the country. With the fall race weekend at PIR traditionally in high demand, fans will now have the added opportunity of purchasing their race tickets through a trusted resource and an official secondary market partner that offers superior customer service and instantly downloadable tickets.(PIR)(9-6-2016)

Phoenix International Raceway partners with Ronald McDonald House: Phoenix International Raceway, through Phoenix Raceway Charities, is spearheading a $500,000 renovation project for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix. The donation marks the largest contribution to date by the organization and is a result of fundraising and commitments generated from Phoenix Raceway's 50th Anniversary season in 2014. The 10-week project is expected to begin at the Ronald McDonald House's main building at 501 E. Roanoke Ave. in mid-August and be completed in time for the Can-Am 500, the semifinal race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship on Sunday, Nov. 13 at Phoenix International Raceway. The Roanoke House opened in 1985 with 16 guest rooms and became the first of three RMHC houses serving the Valley. The House was expanded by 10 bedrooms in 1995 and to 45 bedrooms in 2005. In 2008, the Valley's second Ronald McDonald House opened on the campus of Phoenix Children's Hospital with 18 rooms and the 16-room third House opened on the campus of Cardon Children's Medical Center in 2014. Phoenix Raceway Charities began in 2014, coinciding with the track's 50th Anniversary celebration, as a way for PIR to give back to the community that has helped make it the premier motorsports venue in the West. Funds have primarily been raised through the sale of official PIR-branded Arizona license plates, race weekend raffles and donations from fans and partners.(PIR)(8-10-2016)

ISC focused on Phoenix, Richmond enhancements: With the Daytona Rising project's transition to gleaming motorsports stadium reaching completion this year, International Speedway Corporation's next initiative aims to bring similar enhancements to other tracks in its portfolio. Lesa France Kennedy, CEO of ISC, revealed during NASCAR's preseason media tour that two tracks in particular -- Phoenix International Raceway and Richmond International Raceway -- were targeted for comparable improvements. Speaking Thursday after her induction into the Cynopsis Sports Hall of Fame in New York, Kennedy provided updates on the two tracks, which both host two annual events for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. "We're continuing to look at both Phoenix and Richmond," Kennedy told NASCAR.com. "They're terrific markets, first of all, and also facilities that I think would really benefit to take it to the next level with some of the features that we saw at Daytona Rising that worked well and that our fans enjoyed. We're continuing to work on the plans. As you know, sometimes it takes several years to develop the plans and then to go through the construction process, but we're deep in the middle of it with both of those. We'll look forward to those plans rolling out." Daytona International Speedway's transformation spanned approximately two and a half years from the Rising project's groundbreaking in July 2013 to its full-fledged debut at Speedweeks in January and February. Kennedy said no specific timetable was in place for plans at Phoenix or Richmond. "We're very active right now," Kennedy said. "We've been looking at both of those tracks, but also all of our tracks. Those are the two that we're laser-focused on right now."(NASCAR.com)(6-26-2016)

Phoenix race tickets on sale: Phoenix International Raceway announced that tickets for the semifinal race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the Can-Am 500, go on-sale Friday, June 3. Tickets start at just $25 and can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223). The popular fall race at PIR historically sells out in advance and features a full weekend of NASCAR action, including racing from the top-three series in NASCAR. The Can-Am 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race takes place on Sunday, Nov. 13. The event weekend also features the NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, Nov. 12 following the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Friday night, Nov. 11. Both the NASCAR XFINITY and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will battle in the Chase format for the first time, with PIR being home to all the Series' elimination races. Fans who buy early will be automatically entered to win special PIR racing swag. Simply purchase Can-Am 500 tickets by Saturday, June 11, at 11:59pm/pt, and fans will be entered to win exciting prizes.(PIR)(6-3-2016)

New Arizona law hints at big changes for PIR: Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey signed into law Thursday a bill that provides more than $40 million to promote races at Phoenix International Raceway from fiscal years 2022-2051 provided the track incurs projects costs of at least $100 million beginning next year. Lesa France Kennedy, chief executive officer of International Speedway Corp., which owns Phoenix International Raceway, stated in February that the 1-mile track is targeted for upgrades now that the company's $400 million improvements at Daytona International Speedway are complete. Bryan Sperber, president of Phoenix International Raceway, told NBC Sports then that "we're starting to put together plans now, but it's a long way away from any kind of announcement.'' HB2495 requires that Phoenix International Raceway has incurred the requisite project cost between Dec. 31, 2016 and Dec. 31, 2020. If that is done, HB2495 requires $1.5 million to be appropriated annually to the Arizona Office of Tourism to promote the track's races, beginning July 1, 2021 (when fiscal year 2022 starts). A spokesperson with the Arizona Office of Tourism told NBC Sports that to their knowledge this type of budget allocation has not been done before. The money from the Arizona Office of Tourism would be used to promote any event at Phoenix International Raceway "that is sanctioned by a nationally recognized premier national auto racing series governing body.''(NBC Sports)(5-23-2016)

Harvick wins at Phoenix: #4-Kevin Harvick won the Good Sam 500(k) Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway for his 1st win of the season, 8th win in at Phoenix and 32nd career win. Harvick led 139 of the 312 laps. He has now led more than 100 laps in the last 5 races at Phoenix.
After a late caution, the race restarted with "NASCAR Overtime" and Harvick held off #19-Edwards, beating him to the finish line by .01 second, the closest finish ever at Phoenix.
#11-Hamlin finished 3rd, followed by #18-Busch, #88-Earnhardt, Jr., #41-Busch, #20-Kenseth, #24-Elliott, #3-Dillon, and #21-Blaney.
There were 7 lead changes among 4 drivers and 5 cautions for 30 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 113.212mph.
Scheduled Race Re-Airs: Good Sam 500(k) Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway
See unofficial race results, awards, laps led, cautions and more at:
Unofficial Race Results page (pdf)
Lap Summary Report (pdf)
Penalty Report (pdf)
(3-13-2016)

Phoenix says no decision made on track upgrades: Bryan Sperber, president of Phoenix International Raceway, told NBC Sports Friday that any talk about the track flip-flopping the frontstretch and backstretch is "all speculation at this point." International Speedway Corp., which owns the track, had no comment on a Fox Sports 1 broadcaster saying that the "rumor" is the company will flip the frontstretch and backstretch at Phoenix. During Friday's broadcast of Sprint Cup practice on Fox Sports 1, broadcaster Mike Joy said: "The rumor now is that ISC is going to take and flip-flop this track as has been done at Atlanta and Darlington and the reason is that these (frontstretch) seats face South, which means you are sun-baked all day long, so there's a possibility of making this (Joy drew on the screen along the backstretch) the frontstretch with new seats and suites." Sperber told NBC Sports: "It's no secret that we've been looking at upgrading PIR in general, and we're starting to put plans together now, but it's a long, way away from making any kind of announcement." Sperber said they're putting together a list of possible changes and examining prices for the projects.(NBC Sports)(3-12-2016)

Full weekend of entertainment at Phoenix: Race weekend entertainment for the Good Sam 500 at Phoenix International Raceway will feature two new concerts as DJ Michaelis will throw a 'Spring Break After Party' following the AXALTA Faster. Tougher. Brighter. 200 on Saturday, March 12, while Christopher Shayne will entertain fans post-qualifying for Gatorade Pole Day on Friday, March 11. Famous for deconstructing popular music, PIR fans know DJ Michaelis for putting his own twist on the traditional driver introductions before the NASCAR Sprint Cup races. The West Coast DJ holds big room residencies in cities around the world including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, Moscow and Bali, and has new Trap and Progressive House music being released later this month. Arizona's own Christopher Shayne will highlight Friday's entertainment as he will be performing a concert at the Fan Midway immediately following NASCAR Sprint Cup Qualifying for Gatorade Pole Day on March 11. Nationally known for his hard rock band Whiskey Six, Shayne introduces a new line-up in concert at PIR. The band brings southern-tinged desert rock with Christopher on lead vocals and guitar, playing songs with infectious hooks inspired by American music greats ranging from ZZ Top to The Black Crowes to Johnny Cash. Prior to the Good Sam 500 on Sunday, March 13, Grammy-nominated Soul Asylum will also be performing a free concert for any fan with a grandstand ticket. The multi-platinum rock group known for their 1994 hit "Runaway Train," will entertain fans in the midway area at 10:30am/mt.
Following the Spring Break After Party on the Fan Midway on Saturday, fans can make their way back to the new Busch Garage for a night concerts starting with Georgia Chrome from 7:00-9:00pm. Making his PIR debut, the local Donny Grubb Band will close out Saturday evening with a concert from 9:00-11:00pm at the Busch Garage. Race weekend entertainment officially kicks off at the Busch Garage with Harry Luge, Jr. on Thursday, March 10 from 7:00-9:00pm. He will be returning to the Busch Garage stage on Friday, March 11 from 9:00-11:00pm. Hitting the Busch Garage on Thursday night, Chad Freeman & Redline will close out Thursday night entertainment from 9:00-11:00pm. Also performing at the Busch Garage will be Arizona's original and best hair band rock show, METALHEAD, who will entertain fans on Friday from 7:00-9:00pm.(PIR)(3-10-2016)

Phoenix announces signature food and drink for race weekend: It's Spring Break, NASCAR-style, and fans coming to the Good Sam 500 race weekend are encouraged to take advantage of the exclusive food and beverage offerings - only at PIR - including the Two-wide Spicy Tempura Burger and the Fuzzy's Desert Mule. A collaboration between PIR and Americrown, the Two-wide Spicy Tempura Burger is a tempura battered all Natural grass fed-beef patty topped with ham, charred peppers, Yancy's Fancy jalapeno cayenne cheddar cheese and pineapple ketchup on a whole wheat bun. The unique twist on the classic burger was developed by Americrown's Chef Carl Van Wagner, the same chef who developed last year's popular CARBuretor Crunch. The Two-wide Spicy Tempura Burger can be purchased for $10 at the food row behind Bryan Allison and A.J. Foyt Grandstands. New this year, PIR partnered with new track sponsor the award-winning "Fuzzy's Ultra Premium Vodka," and Chaco Flaco Unusually Delicious Drink Mixers to create the Fuzzy's Desert Mule. PIR's spin on the classic mixology includes Fuzzy's Premium Vodka, Chaco Flaco Berry Mojito Mix, Ginger Beer and ice. The 10oz signature cocktail can also be purchased at the Start Finish Line Grill or the new Busch Garage (formerly known as SPEED Cantina) for $9.(PIR)(3-9-2016)

Phoenix extends partnership with O'Reilly Auto Parts: Phoenix International Raceway announced the extension of a successful long-time partnership with O'Reilly Auto Parts, as the Missouri-based company will continue as the track's Official Auto Parts partner. "We are pleased to have a great partner like O'Reilly Auto Parts and it's always great when we continue to build our long term relationships," said track president Bryan Sperber. "A partnership with a brand familiar to NASCAR fans coast to coast is fitting for the track." The Valley of the Sun is both a key automotive market and a key market for the automotive parts business. O'Reilly has played host to NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Phoenix International Raceway for many years and has been the Official Auto Parts partner since 2010.(PIR)(3-8-2016)

Jordan Fisher to sing National Anthem at Phoenix: Actor and singer Jordan Fisher will be on hand to perform the National Anthem prior to the Good Sam 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 13. Fisher most recently appeared in the FOX special "Grease: Live" as 'Doody' which attracted more than 12.2 million viewers and ranked as the number one most viral special live musical event with over 162.2 million social impressions. Originally from Birmingham, Ala., he made his debut on the popular Nickelodeon series "iCarly" and later landed his first major acting role on ABC Family's "The Secret Life of the American Teenager." He has also appeared in Disney's "Teen Beach Movie" and "Teen Beach 2", Nickelodeon's "The Thundermans", MTV's "Teen Wolf" and currently stars on Disney's "Liv and Maddie."
In addition to his on-camera roles, Jordan signed a recording deal with Hollywood Records last year and is currently in the studio working on his debut album with some of the industry's premier writers and producers. His first single off the album will be dropping this Spring.(Phoenix Raceway)(3-5-2016)

UFC Champion to drive pace car at Phoenix: Current UFC bantamweight champ Dominick Cruz will lead the field to the green flag behind the wheel of the Official 2016 Chevrolet Camaro Pace Car at the start of the Good Sam 500 at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 13. Cruz's appearance was the result of a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment. As the official pace car driver, the 30-year old mixed martial artist will take an honorary lap around the one-mile oval. Cruz, a native of Tucson, Ariz., is a two-time UFC bantamweight champion and former WEC champion. Undefeated since 2007, Cruz is widely considered to be one the sport's best pound-for-pound athletes with an overall record of 21-1. Known for his nonstop in-ring footwork and entertaining fight style, Cruz has become a favorite among fans every time he steps inside the Octagon. When he's not competing, Cruz also serves as an analyst for FOX Sports often breaking down UFC action on FOX Sports 1. This event marks the second appearance for Cruz as the official pace car driver for a NASCAR event at PIR, as he also served in the same role ahead of the Subway Fresh Fit 500 on March 4, 2012.(PIR)(3-3-2016)

Soul Asylum performing a pre-race concert at Phoenix: Fans coming to the Good Sam 500 at Phoenix International Raceway will be entertained with live music prior to the race as popular Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum rock group Soul Asylum will perform a pre-race concert in the Fan Midway area. The concert, which resulted from a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment, is just one part of race-day excitement and is free to all fans with a grandstand ticket for the Good Sam 500. The group, which includes founding singer/guitarist Pirner with guitarist Justin Sharbono, bassist Winston Roye and drummer Michael Bland, will release its eleventh studio album, Change of Fortune, and its first for Entertainment One Music (eOne Music) in March of 2016. Soul Asylum has been inspiring rock fans since 1981, when the band, initially known as Loud Fast Rules, formed in Minneapolis. The band's raucous live sets and early releases on the hometown indie label Twin/Tone - including the albums Say What You Will, Made to Be Broken and While You Were Out - earned it a loyal fan base and widespread critical acclaim.(Phoenix Raceway)(3-1-2016)

Phoenix extends Black Friday, Cyber Monday sales through end of week: For people looking for that perfect gift for the race fan in their life, Phoenix International Raceway has extended its Black Friday and Cyber Monday special offers through the end of the week. That means four extra days to take advantage of holiday sale pricing on tickets for both the Good Sam 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on March 13 and the Phoenix Grand Prix Verizon IndyCar Series race on April 2. PIR's "Fast Friday 2-for-1 Package" includes one ticket in the Richard Petty Grandstand for the Good Sam 500 and one seat in the Bobby Allison Grandstand for the Phoenix Grand Prix for just $79. That represents a savings of nearly 35% over race week pricing for the combination. The Fast Friday offer is valid through Friday, December 4 at 11:59pm/mt. The "Cyber Monday Fun Day Package" includes a ticket in the Jimmy Bryan Grandstand or the Bobby Allison Grandstand for the Good Sam 500, along with a FanVision rental for just $59, a savings of more than 40% compared to race week pricing. The offer is also valid through Friday, December 4 at 11:59pm/mt.(PIR)(12-1-2015)

NASCAR says resuming Phoenix race Monday wasn't policy after reaching halfway: Responding to questions about why Sunday's shortened race wasn't resumed Monday, Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR vice president, said that's not policy after an event becomes official at halfway. "It really isn't," O'Donnell told SiriusXM Satellite Radio host Dave Moody in an interview Monday afternoon. "Fans can ask questions, and it's something we can look at in the future, but for NASCAR, we've advertised the race on a certain date, and if we feel we can get the race in on that day, we're going to do that. We started the race with every intention of believing we could get every lap in, but once it does reach halfway, the policy known in the garage that we've operated on is that's considered an official race. We don't want to always have to rely on that. We're going to make every effort to get all the laps in, but unfortunately, we couldn't do that on Sunday night." Sunday's Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 at Phoenix International Raceway was called after 219 of a scheduled 312 laps, making #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. the winner and putting #4-Kevin Harvick, #18-Kyle Busch and #78-Martin Truex Jr. in the championship round of the playoffs with #24-Jeff Gordon. That prompted questions about whether NASCAR should make it policy to run every playoff race to the end.(full article at NBC Sports)(11-18-2015)

Name change for spring race at Phoenix: When NASCAR embarks on its second annual West Coast Swing next March, the ideal way to experience the three-race road trip will be in an RV. Then, join the fun with serious RV owners at the Good Sam 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 13, 2016.
Tickets for the Good Sam 500 are on sale now, with prices beginning as low as $25. In order to secure tickets early and guarantee their seats throughout every NASCAR race at PIR next year, fans can purchase a 2016 NASCAR season ticket, which includes the Good Sam 500 race weekend on March 12-13. Tickets can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223).
"We are proud to continue our tremendous relationship with Camping World and Good Sam with the Good Sam 500 next March," said PIR President Bryan R. Sperber. "We take pride in hosting thousands of campers at every race, and with our spring race taking place during Spring Break, partnering with the world's largest RV owners association makes perfect sense."
Good Sam is the world's largest organization of recreational vehicle (RV) owners and is committed to making RVing a safer and more rewarding experience for its over 1.6 million members. Founded in 1966 by Trail-R-News, a small California RV magazine, Club members originally promised to help fellow travelers on America's highways. Good Sam is a sister company of Camping World, who is the NASCAR Truck Series Sponsor and America's largest retailer of RV supplies, accessories, services and new and used RVs. Last year's spring NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at PIR was named the CampingWorld.com 500.
"We are excited to partner with the Phoenix International Raceway for our Good Sam 500 race as this is also in celebration of our 50th anniversary of serving the outdoor and RV community," said Marcus Lemonis, CEO and Chairman of Camping World and Good Sam and host of CNBC's The Profit. "Camping is such an integral part of the race experience for many fans, and at Good Sam, we look forward to continuing our services for many more years to come; offering preferred rates on insurance, extended warranty, roadside assistance and savings at campgrounds across the country."
The Good Sam 500 will be the fourth race of the 2016 and will take place during Spring Break for virtually every school in the state of Arizona, making it an ideal camping destination for families. Additionally, the Good Sam 500 will coincide with 2016 Major League Baseball Spring Training, giving campers the flexibility to take in a wide variety of sporting events while in the Phoenix area.(Phoenix International Raceway)(11-16-2015)

Changes coming to Phoenix track? After five-consecutive fall sell-outs at Phoenix International Raceway, the track is considering several capital improvement's for the half-century old track - including the possibility of moving the start-finish line to the backstretch. "I think we're going to take a really hard look at our master plan over the next couple of months and start to answer some of those questions about how best to maximize the opportunities here at Phoenix," PIR track president Bryan Sperber said. "If this were a baseball game, we're probably in the first inning of that. So, there will probably be a lot of different things that will surface and will vet a lot of the potential opportunities and land on a really good plan for Phoenix going forward." What's made the backstretch so attractive to fans is how the reconstruction of the one-mile track has enhanced the quality of racing. In 2010, ISC announced a $100 million project that widened the front stretch to 62 feet and expanded the dogleg by 95 feet which increased the radius to 500 feet. Progressive banking was added to the relatively flat track. Turns 1 and 2 were raised to 10-11 degrees, Turns 3 and 4 to 8-9 degrees. Work was completed in tim for the November 2011 race. "The fans love it - what they call the dive-bombing," Sperber says of the action on the backstretch where drivers use the apron to their advantage. "Whoever thought we could be four and five-wide at Phoenix. It's been tremendously exciting. We thought it would be good, but it vastly exceeded even my expectations. We've really been blessed with a great racetrack and I think the next step for us is to make sure the rest of the facility matches the high quality of what we're seeing in terms of the racing."
With the track holding approximately 60,000 fans along the front stretch into Turns 1 and 2, a row of motorcoaches on the backstretch and a smattering of spectators on Rattlesnake Hill between Turns 3 and 4, there's certainly room for expansion. While many tracks are tearing down stands, few areas boast the car culture of Phoenix and the valley. "We've looked at enhancing the front stretch," Sperber said. "We've looked at some concepts, like adding a double-decker stand on the frontstretch. Certainly, the idea of developing some things on the back - were even talked about back in the late '90s - Bill France Jr., even talked about that.(Motorsport)(11-16-2015)

Earnhardt Jr. wins at Phoenix: #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. won the Quicken Loan's for Heroes 350(k) Sprint Cup Series race at Jeff Gordon Raceway (Phoenix International Raceway) for his 3rd win of the season, 3rd win at Phoenix and 26th career win. Earnhardt Jr. led 22 of the 219 laps.
The race was rain delayed for over six hours, getting the command to start engines at 9:00pm/et and taking the green flag at 9:27pm/et. During a late race caution on lap 195, it started raining again, just after NASCAR red flagged the event at 11:30pm/et on lap 219, the rain came down hard. With more rain in the forecast, NASCAR decided to call the race and made it official. It is only the second Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix in 39 races to be rain shortened and the first since October 25, 1998 when Rusty Wallace won a race shortened to 257 of 312 laps.
#4-Harvick finished 2nd (for the 12th time in 2015 and 43rd runner-up finish in his career) followed by #22-Logano, #18-Busch, #48-Johnson (pole winner), #24-Gordon, #41-Busch, #11-Hamlin, #2-Keselowski and #43-Almirola.
The four drivers advancing to the CHAMPIONSHIP RACE of The Chase at Homestead-Miami Speedway are:
#24-Jeff Gordon (4 Championships)
#4-Kevin Harvick (1 Championship)
#18-Kyle Busch (0 Championships)
#78-Martin Truex Jr. (0 Championships)
Four drivers failed to win or score enough points during the Eliminator Round(3) to advance to the Championship Race:
#19-Carl Edwards
#2-Brad Keselowski
#41-Kurt Busch
#22-Joey Logano
There were 8 lead changes among 7 drivers and only 2 cautions for 29 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 106.512mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See OFFICIAL race results & points standings on the Official Race & Points Report (pdf).
(11-15-2015)

NASCAR drivers join in Paris attacks reaction: They are a world away from Paris, but NASCAR drivers and their teams are standing in support of France in the wake of Friday's terrorist attacks. #41-Kurt Busch, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #10-Danica Patrick, #15-Clint Bowyer #22-Joey Logano were among stockcar racing participants who took to social media to express their thoughts. NASCAR spent Friday in preparation for racing at Phoenix while events unfolded in Paris. More than 120 people died and about 350 more were wounded as terrorists attacked the French capital. Sprint Cup qualifying for Sunday's race took place about the time of the Paris attacks. The sport's Trucks series race ran as scheduled on Friday, and the Xfinity Series was a go for Saturday. Sunday's race will find Jimmie Johnson leading the field at Phoenix. It is the final race in the Eliminator Round, from which Jeff Gordon and three drivers to be determined will emerge as participants in the Cup championship race on Nov. 22 at Homestead-Miami. Racers watched with the rest of the world as the horror of Paris played out. As at all public events this week, Phoenix International Raceway is coordinating with law enforcement officials to make sure its spectators and race participants are safe.(Sporting News)(11-15-2015)

F-35 jets from Luke AFB to zoom over Phoenix International Raceway during pre-race ceremonies: Fans in the sold-out grandstands at Phoenix International Raceway will be treated to the thrill of the first-ever flyover by a pair of F-35 fighter jets prior to the start of the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The F-35 fighter jets from Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Ariz. will have some very special cargo onboard: to celebrate Jeff Gordon's final race at PIR, one of the fighters will be a commemorative Jeff Gordon Raceway flag. The first-ever flyover of the F-35 fighter jets is scheduled to begin at the conclusion of the National Anthem and will pass directly over the Estrella Mountains to the Southeast behind Turn 3 and then exit beyond the Bobby Allison Grandstands above Turn 1. Although the grandstands are sold out for Sunday's race, fans wishing to attend the final Eliminator race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's Hillside area. Tickets for the Hillside area, may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 866-408-RACE or in person at the track ticket windows.(PIR)(11-15-2015)

Phoenix International Raceway track president talks about security for Sunday's race: Phoenix International Raceway will host the NASCAR Sprint Cup race on Sunday. Track president Bryan Sperber said officials work closely with law enforcement and would act accordingly: "Phoenix International Raceway works closely with the FBI and Homeland Security, as well as other local, state and federal agencies, throughout the planning and implementation of our event security plan," Sperber said in a statement. "They are closely monitoring the events in Paris and are confident in our plan based on all available information. If they provide us with additional recommendations, we will immediately act accordingly."(USA Today)(11-14-2015)

Can-Am 500 to headline November 2016 NASCAR Weekend at Phoenix: The November 2016 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway (PIR) will be known as the Can-Am 500, continuing the brand's expansion into racing sponsorship. The race is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016. "We are thrilled to partner with BRP to present the Can-Am 500 next November," said PIR President Bryan R. Sperber. "There is a tremendous affinity for outdoor powersports among NASCAR fans, particularly in the desert southwest, that makes this a fantastic fit. The passion, energy and excitement synonymous with the Can-Am brand will be on full display throughout the Can-Am 500 race weekend as the Chase for the Sprint Cup comes to Phoenix." The Can-Am brand, owned by BRP, manufacturer of world-renowned motorized recreational vehicles and engines, will serve as the title sponsor for the popular race on Veterans' Day weekend. It will bookend a year of motorsports activity for the powersports leader, as the company will also serve as the title sponsor of the 2016 Can-Am Duel At Daytona on Feb. 18.
"BRP's products provide superior performance and adventure, which is a perfect fit for being part of the Chase for the Sprint Cup with NASCAR fans in Arizona, so many of which are fervent outdoor enthusiasts," said Anne Bélec, senior vice-president, Global Brand and Strategy. "This is a great time for BRP to participate in NASCAR when the breadth of the Can-Am offering is growing exponentially. Our CEO, José Boisjoli, has promised new off-road models every six months and this is a great way to ensure maximum visibility for the Can-Am brand."
With Can-Am ATVs, side-by-side vehicles and Spyder roadsters, BRP is carrying on a long tradition of performance. More than 30 years ago, the world discovered the Can-Am brand through its revolutionary motocross bikes, and its legend and winning spirit live on - with passion and exhilaration. The fall race at PIR has sold out in each of the last five years; and under the new Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup format, PIR's semifinal race in the Chase is the last of the Eliminator round and will determine the final four drivers that will fight for the championship the following weekend.
In order to secure tickets for the Can-Am 500 early, fans can purchase a 2016 NASCAR season ticket, which includes the Good Sam 500 race weekend on March 12-13. Tickets can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(11-14-2015)

CARBuretor Crunch sandwich available at Phoenix: It's Spring Break, NASCAR-style, and fans coming to the CampingWorld.com 500 race weekend are encouraged to take a bite out of the CARBuretor Crunch, the first-ever signature item of Phoenix International Raceway. A collaboration between PIR and Americrown, the item is a deep-fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich encrusted with Cap'n Crunch, covered with bacon crumbles, fresh sliced bananas and caramel drizzle. The CARBuretor Crunch, which comes in at roughly 900 calories, will be exclusively sold in the new ZOOMTOWN Food Court located in the heart of the Midway. Fans can purchase a single CARBuretor Crunch for $7, or a double order for $13, and will have social media bragging rights with a photo station declaring, "I ate the CARBuretor Crunch." Also featured at the new ZOOMTOWN Food Court will be the Bootleggers bar, in addition to a variety of other food options including bar-b-que, hot dogs, quesadillas and tacos. The ZOOMTOWN Food Court offers free WiFi and covered seating to patrons.(PIR)(3-11-2015)

Phoenix International Raceway News Archive