North America Motorsports – Your Quick Guide to Tracks, Events and Getting Started
Thinking about racing or just love watching high‑speed action? North America has a huge mix of series, tracks and fan experiences that are easy to jump into. From the roar of IndyCar on the ovals to the street‑circuit thrills of NASCAR, there’s something for every speed fan. Below you’ll find the biggest series, the coolest tracks and a few practical steps if you want to go from spectator to driver.
Top Racing Series in North America
The two biggest names you’ll hear most are IndyCar and NASCAR. IndyCar runs on both ovals and road courses, and its flagship event, the Indianapolis 500, draws crowds from all over the world. The series stays largely US‑focused, which is why it hasn’t gone global like Formula 1. NASCAR, on the other hand, is famous for its stock‑car races on super‑speedways like Daytona and Talladega. Both series offer a mix of high‑speed drafting, pit strategy and fan festivals that make race weekends feel like a party.
While IndyCar and NASCAR dominate, other series add variety. The American Le Mans Series (now part of IMSA) brings endurance racing to tracks like Sebring and Road Atlanta. And don’t forget the occasional Formula 1 Grand Prix in Austin – a great chance to see the world’s top cars on US soil.
How to Experience the Action – From Fan to Racer
If you just want to watch, buy a ticket early for the big races; they sell out fast, especially the Indy 500. Arrive a day early to explore the fan zones, meet drivers and grab a bite from local food trucks. Many tracks also offer track‑day experiences where you can drive a race‑prep car on the circuit under supervision – a perfect taste of what racing feels like.
Want to get behind the wheel? Start with karting. It’s the cheapest way to learn racing lines, braking and racecraft. Look for a local karting club in your city – most have weekend sessions and beginner courses. After you’ve logged a few races, consider a junior license from the sanctioning body (SCCA in the US). From there you can move up to club‑level road racing or even try a one‑make series like Spec Miata.
Don’t underestimate networking. Attend race weekends, talk to team owners and volunteers, and sign up for a racing school. Many schools offer scholarship programs for promising talent, which can offset the cost of seat time. Keep a simple log of your lap times, feedback and progress – teams love data.
Finally, stay plugged into community sites and forums. They share track‑day calendars, discount ticket codes and tips on where to find affordable gear. Being active in the community can open doors to test‑drives, sponsorship talks and even a full‑time seat down the line.
Whether you’re cheering from the grandstands or tearing up the karting track, North America’s motorsport world is ready for you. Grab a ticket, hop in a kart, and feel the rush – the next step is yours to take.
Where is street racing legal in North America?
Street racing is an activity that has been around for decades, and there are still many places in North America where it is still legal. From the rural highways of Canada to the deserts of the U.S., there are a number of places where drivers can safely and legally engage in the adrenaline-fueled activity of street racing. In Canada, places like Alberta and Saskatchewan are particularly popular for street racing enthusiasts, while states like Utah and Nevada in the U.S. are also hotspots for the activity. While regulations vary from place to place, there are plenty of places in North America where street racing is legal and can be enjoyed safely and responsibly.
