Flat Tracks
Indianapolis, Iowa, LA Coliseum, Lucas Oil IRP, Martinsville, N Wilkesboro, Nashville, New Hampshire ,Phoenix, Pocono, Richmond, WWT
Large Oval Tracks
Charlotte, Kansas, Michigan, Texas
Restrictor Plate / Tapered Spacer
Atlanta, Daytona, Talladega
Road Courses
Chicago Street Circuit, Circuit of the Americas, Portland International, Sonoma, Watkins Glen
Steep Tracks
Bristol, Darlington, Dover, Homestead-Miami, Las Vegas
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
Atlanta, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nashville, Richmond, Talladega, Texas
Egg-Shaped Oval Tracks
Darlington, WWT Raceway
Paperclip Oval Tracks
LA Coliseum, Martinsville
Quad-Oval Tracks
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Rounded-Off Rectangle
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Rounded-Off Triangle
Pocono Raceway
Stadium Oval Tracks
Bristol, Dover, Homestead-Miami, Lucas Oil IRP, N Wilkesboro, New Hampshire
Tri-Oval Tracks
Daytona, Las Vegas, Phoenix
Intermediate Tracks
Atlanta, Charlotte, Darlington, Homestead-Miami, Kansas, Las Vegas, Nashville, Texas, WWT Raceway
Mile-Oval Tracks
Dover, New Hampshire, Phoenix
Short Tracks
Bristol, Iowa, LA Coliseum, Lucas Oil IRP, Martinsville, N Wilkesboro, Richmond
Street Circuit
Chicago Street Circuit
Superspeedways
Daytona, Indianapolis, Michigan, Pocono, Talladega
DFS NASCAR players, handicappers and fantasy players that group tracks with similarities have more data from more races to make better decisions.
Track Type, Shape & Size Groupings
Select a track to see how different methods group them with other tracks.
Accupredict Track Groupings
Restrictor Plate Track
Daytona International Speedway
Daytona Beach, FL
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 6-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Tri-Oval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 31-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 31-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
Restrictor Plate
Restrictor Plate Tracks are designed to reduce speeds and increase safety by using restrictor plates to limit engine power. These tracks, such as Daytona, Talladega (and now also Atlanta), are known for high-speed pack racing and frequent lead changes. Success on restrictor plate tracks depends on drafting skills, strategic positioning, and the ability to avoid multi-car accidents.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 5°.
Tri-Oval is 18°
Turns range from 28° to 33°.
Restrictor Plate Track Group
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 28-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 28-degrees
- Daytona International Speedway
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- Frontstretch : 6-degrees
- Tri-Oval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 31-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 31-degrees
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : Minimal for drainage only
- Trioval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 33-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 33-degrees
- Frontstretch : Minimal for drainage only
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Tri-oval Track
Daytona International Speedway
Daytona Beach, FL
Tri-oval
The tri-oval, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. Its design offers superior sightlines, allowing fans in the grandstands an angular perspective of the cars approaching and moving away. This eliminates the need for fans to look back and forth like in traditional ovals, providing more forward sight lines.
A tri-oval resembles an isosceles triangle with rounded corners. The backstretch is typically straight, while the main straightaway, housing the pit area and grandstands, features a "tri-oval" curve, often considered a fifth turn. This skewed main stretch enhances visibility for spectators. Most tri-ovals place the start-finish line at the apex of the tri-oval curve. However, tracks like Talladega and Walt Disney World Speedway have the start-finish line on the straight between the curve and turn one. Despite their advantages, modern tri-ovals are sometimes called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
Tri-oval Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Superspeedway
Daytona International Speedway
Daytona Beach, FL
2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
Superspeedway
A superspeedway is an oval track of 2 miles or longer. The most famous are Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, both 2.5 miles. Built in 1909 and 1959, they host the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, and Daytona 500.
Talladega Superspeedway, 2.66 miles, holds the fastest stock car speed record. Daytona and Talladega use restrictor plates to reduce speeds due to steep banking.
Other NASCAR superspeedways include Michigan International Speedway, Auto Club Speedway, and Pocono Raceway. Auto Club and Michigan are similar to intermediate tracks; Pocono and Indianapolis are long, flat tracks.
Superspeedway Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
- Michigan International Speedway 2 miles
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Pocono Raceway 2.5 miles
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway 2.66 miles
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Steep Track
Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Las Vegas, NV
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 20-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
Steep
Steep Tracks have significant banking, allowing for higher speeds and better grip in the turns. This banking helps cars maintain higher cornering speeds, making races on these tracks particularly thrilling. Notable steep tracks include Bristol, Dover, and Darlington. Drivers' success on steep tracks often hinges on their ability to handle high-speed turns and maintain control under intense conditions.
Front and backstretches range from 2° to 9°.
Turns range from 18° to 30°.
Steep Track Group
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 4-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 20-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Tri-oval Track
Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Las Vegas, NV
Tri-oval
The tri-oval, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. Its design offers superior sightlines, allowing fans in the grandstands an angular perspective of the cars approaching and moving away. This eliminates the need for fans to look back and forth like in traditional ovals, providing more forward sight lines.
A tri-oval resembles an isosceles triangle with rounded corners. The backstretch is typically straight, while the main straightaway, housing the pit area and grandstands, features a "tri-oval" curve, often considered a fifth turn. This skewed main stretch enhances visibility for spectators. Most tri-ovals place the start-finish line at the apex of the tri-oval curve. However, tracks like Talladega and Walt Disney World Speedway have the start-finish line on the straight between the curve and turn one. Despite their advantages, modern tri-ovals are sometimes called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
Tri-oval Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Las Vegas, NV
1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Restrictor Plate Track
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Hampton, GA
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 28-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 28-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
- Last Repave 2021
- Track Width 40-feet
Restrictor Plate
Restrictor Plate Tracks are designed to reduce speeds and increase safety by using restrictor plates to limit engine power. These tracks, such as Daytona, Talladega (and now also Atlanta), are known for high-speed pack racing and frequent lead changes. Success on restrictor plate tracks depends on drafting skills, strategic positioning, and the ability to avoid multi-car accidents.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 5°.
Tri-Oval is 18°
Turns range from 28° to 33°.
Restrictor Plate Track Group
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 28-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 28-degrees
- Daytona International Speedway
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- Frontstretch : 6-degrees
- Tri-Oval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 31-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 31-degrees
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : Minimal for drainage only
- Trioval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 33-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 33-degrees
- Frontstretch : Minimal for drainage only
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Hampton, GA
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Hampton, GA
1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Steep Track
Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol, TN
- Backstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Surface Concrete
- Track Width 43 feet
Steep
Steep Tracks have significant banking, allowing for higher speeds and better grip in the turns. This banking helps cars maintain higher cornering speeds, making races on these tracks particularly thrilling. Notable steep tracks include Bristol, Dover, and Darlington. Drivers' success on steep tracks often hinges on their ability to handle high-speed turns and maintain control under intense conditions.
Front and backstretches range from 2° to 9°.
Turns range from 18° to 30°.
Steep Track Group
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 4-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 20-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Stadium Oval Track
Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol, TN
Stadium Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. Although most ovals have two radii curves, they are often labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow a traditional symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
A sub-classification of the traditional oval shape is the "stadium" oval. Unlike the paper clip oval, the straight sections are relatively short compared to the curves, making it closest in form to a circle. The curves usually have high banking, offering a unique challenge.
Stadium Oval Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol, TN
0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Martinsville Speedway
Ridgeway, VA
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- Track Width 55 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Surface Asphalt (straightaways) and Concrete on Asphalt (turns)
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Paper Clip Oval Track
Martinsville Speedway
Ridgeway, VA
Paper Clip Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. While many ovals follow this symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks like the "paper clip" oval are also common.
The paper clip oval is a sub-classification of the traditional oval shape. It features two long straights connected by two sharp, tight-radius turns, resembling a paper clip. These tracks are challenging, with little banking, making the turns slow and tight to maneuver. This layout is classic for short tracks and some mile ovals. Most short tracks are paper clips, but some 1-mile tracks also have this shape.
Paper Clip Oval Tracks
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
Martinsville Speedway
Ridgeway, VA
0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Large Oval Track
Texas Motor Speedway
Fort Worth, TX
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 Radius 750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 Radius 750 feet
- : on Dogleg 5-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
- Turns 1 & 2 Width 80 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 Width 60 feet
Large Oval
Large Oval Tracks include tracks that do not fit neatly into the traditional oval categories but share similarities with larger, more challenging circuits. These tracks offer a mix of speed and technical driving. When first developed, the Accupredict Tracks in this category included Atlanta (prior to the 2021 reconfiguration), California (Auto Club Speedway prior to its reconfiguration to a Short Track), Chicagoland (now defunct), Michigan, Las Vegas, Kansas, Kentucky (now defunct), and Texas. These tracks require a blend of strategic racing and high-speed performance.
Front and backstretches range from 5° to 12°.
Turns range from 17° to 24°.
Large Oval Track Group
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 5.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 10-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Turns 3 & 4 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 12-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18-degrees
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- : on Dogleg 5-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Texas Motor Speedway
Fort Worth, TX
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Texas Motor Speedway
Fort Worth, TX
1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Phoenix Raceway
Phoenix, AZ
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Tri-oval Track
Phoenix Raceway
Phoenix, AZ
Tri-oval
The tri-oval, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. Its design offers superior sightlines, allowing fans in the grandstands an angular perspective of the cars approaching and moving away. This eliminates the need for fans to look back and forth like in traditional ovals, providing more forward sight lines.
A tri-oval resembles an isosceles triangle with rounded corners. The backstretch is typically straight, while the main straightaway, housing the pit area and grandstands, features a "tri-oval" curve, often considered a fifth turn. This skewed main stretch enhances visibility for spectators. Most tri-ovals place the start-finish line at the apex of the tri-oval curve. However, tracks like Talladega and Walt Disney World Speedway have the start-finish line on the straight between the curve and turn one. Despite their advantages, modern tri-ovals are sometimes called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
Tri-oval Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Mile Oval
Phoenix Raceway
Phoenix, AZ
1.022 miles
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
Mile Oval
A 1-mile (1.61 km) oval is common in oval track racing. Exact measurements can vary slightly. Most are flat-banked, except for Dover.
Historically, many 1-mile dirt ovals were used by stock cars and champ cars until the early 1970s. These tracks often originated from harness racing and were called "Fairgrounds" tracks, like Arizona, California, and Michigan State Fairgrounds. The Milwaukee Mile, originally for horse racing, is the oldest oval race track.
Only three 1-mile tracks remain on the NASCAR calendar: Phoenix, Loudon, and Dover.
Mile Oval Tracks
- Dover Motor Speedway 1 miles
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway 1.058 miles
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- Phoenix Raceway 1.022 miles
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Restrictor Plate Track
Talladega Superspeedway
Lincoln, AL
- Backstretch : Minimal for drainage only
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Trioval : 18-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 33-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 Radius 1,100 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 33-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 Radius 1,100 feet
- Frontstretch : Minimal for drainage only
- Surface Asphalt
Restrictor Plate
Restrictor Plate Tracks are designed to reduce speeds and increase safety by using restrictor plates to limit engine power. These tracks, such as Daytona, Talladega (and now also Atlanta), are known for high-speed pack racing and frequent lead changes. Success on restrictor plate tracks depends on drafting skills, strategic positioning, and the ability to avoid multi-car accidents.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 5°.
Tri-Oval is 18°
Turns range from 28° to 33°.
Restrictor Plate Track Group
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 28-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 28-degrees
- Daytona International Speedway
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- Frontstretch : 6-degrees
- Tri-Oval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 31-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 31-degrees
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : Minimal for drainage only
- Trioval : 18-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 33-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 33-degrees
- Frontstretch : Minimal for drainage only
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Talladega Superspeedway
Lincoln, AL
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Superspeedway
Talladega Superspeedway
Lincoln, AL
2.66 miles
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
Superspeedway
A superspeedway is an oval track of 2 miles or longer. The most famous are Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, both 2.5 miles. Built in 1909 and 1959, they host the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, and Daytona 500.
Talladega Superspeedway, 2.66 miles, holds the fastest stock car speed record. Daytona and Talladega use restrictor plates to reduce speeds due to steep banking.
Other NASCAR superspeedways include Michigan International Speedway, Auto Club Speedway, and Pocono Raceway. Auto Club and Michigan are similar to intermediate tracks; Pocono and Indianapolis are long, flat tracks.
Superspeedway Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
- Michigan International Speedway 2 miles
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Pocono Raceway 2.5 miles
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway 2.66 miles
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Steep Track
Darlington Raceway
Darlington, SC
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 3-degrees
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Track Width 90 feet
- Surface Asphalt
Steep
Steep Tracks have significant banking, allowing for higher speeds and better grip in the turns. This banking helps cars maintain higher cornering speeds, making races on these tracks particularly thrilling. Notable steep tracks include Bristol, Dover, and Darlington. Drivers' success on steep tracks often hinges on their ability to handle high-speed turns and maintain control under intense conditions.
Front and backstretches range from 2° to 9°.
Turns range from 18° to 30°.
Steep Track Group
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 4-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 20-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Egg-shaped Oval Track
Darlington Raceway
Darlington, SC
Egg-shaped Oval
An egg-shaped oval has non-parallel straights, resulting in curves with different radii. These tracks, often with unique shapes, flat corners, and hard braking zones, produce driving characteristics similar to road courses. Darlington Raceway, the most famous example, was built this way to avoid disturbing an existing minnow pond. Other tracks may share these irregular features, enhancing the driving challenge.
Egg-shaped Oval Tracks
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Darlington Raceway
Darlington, SC
1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Richmond Raceway
Richmond, VA
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Track Width 60 feet (+ 10-foot apron)
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Richmond Raceway
Richmond, VA
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
Richmond Raceway
Richmond, VA
0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Large Oval Track
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Concord, NC
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Surface Asphalt
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 Radius 685 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 Radius 625 feet
Large Oval
Large Oval Tracks include tracks that do not fit neatly into the traditional oval categories but share similarities with larger, more challenging circuits. These tracks offer a mix of speed and technical driving. When first developed, the Accupredict Tracks in this category included Atlanta (prior to the 2021 reconfiguration), California (Auto Club Speedway prior to its reconfiguration to a Short Track), Chicagoland (now defunct), Michigan, Las Vegas, Kansas, Kentucky (now defunct), and Texas. These tracks require a blend of strategic racing and high-speed performance.
Front and backstretches range from 5° to 12°.
Turns range from 17° to 24°.
Large Oval Track Group
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 5.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 10-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Turns 3 & 4 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 12-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18-degrees
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- : on Dogleg 5-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Quad-oval Track
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Concord, NC
Quad-oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular in the 1960s and 1990s. It provides fans superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away. This design eliminates the need for spectators to look back and forth, as required by traditional ovals, and provides more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are sometimes called "cookie cutters" due to their similar shapes and racing styles.
A quad-oval is a variation of the tri-oval, featuring a "double dogleg." It offers similar sightlines and layout, with the key difference being that the start-finish line falls on a straight section rather than along a curve. This shape has become a signature for Speedway Motorsports, which owns all major quad-ovals in the United States. The Calder Park Thunderdome in Melbourne, Australia, is also a quad-oval, though often referred to as a tri-oval since its opening in 1987. Rockingham Speedway is a unique case, as it can be interpreted as a D-oval, tri-oval, or quad-oval, with its asymmetrical front line featuring two faint kinks and the start-finish line next to the second kink.
Quad-oval Tracks
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Concord, NC
1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Steep Track
Dover Motor Speedway
Dover, DE
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Surface Concrete
- Track Width 48 to 58 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
Steep
Steep Tracks have significant banking, allowing for higher speeds and better grip in the turns. This banking helps cars maintain higher cornering speeds, making races on these tracks particularly thrilling. Notable steep tracks include Bristol, Dover, and Darlington. Drivers' success on steep tracks often hinges on their ability to handle high-speed turns and maintain control under intense conditions.
Front and backstretches range from 2° to 9°.
Turns range from 18° to 30°.
Steep Track Group
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 4-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 20-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Stadium Oval Track
Dover Motor Speedway
Dover, DE
Stadium Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. Although most ovals have two radii curves, they are often labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow a traditional symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
A sub-classification of the traditional oval shape is the "stadium" oval. Unlike the paper clip oval, the straight sections are relatively short compared to the curves, making it closest in form to a circle. The curves usually have high banking, offering a unique challenge.
Stadium Oval Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Mile Oval
Dover Motor Speedway
Dover, DE
1 miles
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
Mile Oval
A 1-mile (1.61 km) oval is common in oval track racing. Exact measurements can vary slightly. Most are flat-banked, except for Dover.
Historically, many 1-mile dirt ovals were used by stock cars and champ cars until the early 1970s. These tracks often originated from harness racing and were called "Fairgrounds" tracks, like Arizona, California, and Michigan State Fairgrounds. The Milwaukee Mile, originally for horse racing, is the oldest oval race track.
Only three 1-mile tracks remain on the NASCAR calendar: Phoenix, Loudon, and Dover.
Mile Oval Tracks
- Dover Motor Speedway 1 miles
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway 1.058 miles
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- Phoenix Raceway 1.022 miles
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Pocono Raceway
Long Pond, PA
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
- Track Width 60 to 100 feet
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 2 Radius 750 feet
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Turn 3 Radius 800 feet
- Turns 1 Radius 675 feet
- Last Repave 2012
- Surface Asphalt
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Rounded-off Triangle Track
Pocono Raceway
Long Pond, PA
Rounded-off Triangle
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns, usually labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow this symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
The "rounded-off triangle" is a rare layout in oval courses. Unlike traditional ovals, this shape features three distinct, widely varying turns. Pocono Raceway is the prime example, with its unique triangular design, often described as an oval that drives like a road course. This layout is popular outside the United States, offering a unique challenge compared to typical oval tracks.
Rounded-off Triangle Tracks
- Pocono Raceway
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Superspeedway
Pocono Raceway
Long Pond, PA
2.5 miles
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
Superspeedway
A superspeedway is an oval track of 2 miles or longer. The most famous are Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, both 2.5 miles. Built in 1909 and 1959, they host the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, and Daytona 500.
Talladega Superspeedway, 2.66 miles, holds the fastest stock car speed record. Daytona and Talladega use restrictor plates to reduce speeds due to steep banking.
Other NASCAR superspeedways include Michigan International Speedway, Auto Club Speedway, and Pocono Raceway. Auto Club and Michigan are similar to intermediate tracks; Pocono and Indianapolis are long, flat tracks.
Superspeedway Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
- Michigan International Speedway 2 miles
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Pocono Raceway 2.5 miles
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway 2.66 miles
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Large Oval Track
Michigan International Speedway
Brooklyn, MI
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 12-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18-degrees
- Track Width Straightaways 45 feet wide with 12-foot apron
- Track Width Turns 73 feet wide with 10-foot apron
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18-degrees
Large Oval
Large Oval Tracks include tracks that do not fit neatly into the traditional oval categories but share similarities with larger, more challenging circuits. These tracks offer a mix of speed and technical driving. When first developed, the Accupredict Tracks in this category included Atlanta (prior to the 2021 reconfiguration), California (Auto Club Speedway prior to its reconfiguration to a Short Track), Chicagoland (now defunct), Michigan, Las Vegas, Kansas, Kentucky (now defunct), and Texas. These tracks require a blend of strategic racing and high-speed performance.
Front and backstretches range from 5° to 12°.
Turns range from 17° to 24°.
Large Oval Track Group
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 5.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 10-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Turns 3 & 4 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 12-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18-degrees
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- : on Dogleg 5-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Michigan International Speedway
Brooklyn, MI
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Superspeedway
Michigan International Speedway
Brooklyn, MI
2 miles
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
Superspeedway
A superspeedway is an oval track of 2 miles or longer. The most famous are Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, both 2.5 miles. Built in 1909 and 1959, they host the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, and Daytona 500.
Talladega Superspeedway, 2.66 miles, holds the fastest stock car speed record. Daytona and Talladega use restrictor plates to reduce speeds due to steep banking.
Other NASCAR superspeedways include Michigan International Speedway, Auto Club Speedway, and Pocono Raceway. Auto Club and Michigan are similar to intermediate tracks; Pocono and Indianapolis are long, flat tracks.
Superspeedway Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
- Michigan International Speedway 2 miles
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Pocono Raceway 2.5 miles
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway 2.66 miles
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Road Course Track
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, CA
- Surface Asphalt
- "The Carousel" Adds 0.395 miles making the course 2.385 miles
- Turns 12
Road Course
Road Course Tracks are unique in NASCAR, incorporating both left and right turns, as well as elevation changes and technical sections. This diversity demands excellent car handling and driver skill. Prominent road courses include Watkins Glen and Sonoma. Road courses challenge drivers with a combination of speed, precision, and adaptability.
Road Course Track Group
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- : Virtually flat
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Turn : Ranges from 6- to 10-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Road Course Track
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, CA
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Road Course
Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma, CA
1.99 miles
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Circuit of The Americas 3.14 miles
- Portland International Raceway 1.97 miles
- Sonoma Raceway 1.99 miles
- Watkins Glen International 2.428 miles
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Loudon, NH
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- Track Width 65 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Stadium Oval Track
New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Loudon, NH
Stadium Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. Although most ovals have two radii curves, they are often labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow a traditional symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
A sub-classification of the traditional oval shape is the "stadium" oval. Unlike the paper clip oval, the straight sections are relatively short compared to the curves, making it closest in form to a circle. The curves usually have high banking, offering a unique challenge.
Stadium Oval Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Mile Oval
New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Loudon, NH
1.058 miles
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
Mile Oval
A 1-mile (1.61 km) oval is common in oval track racing. Exact measurements can vary slightly. Most are flat-banked, except for Dover.
Historically, many 1-mile dirt ovals were used by stock cars and champ cars until the early 1970s. These tracks often originated from harness racing and were called "Fairgrounds" tracks, like Arizona, California, and Michigan State Fairgrounds. The Milwaukee Mile, originally for horse racing, is the oldest oval race track.
Only three 1-mile tracks remain on the NASCAR calendar: Phoenix, Loudon, and Dover.
Mile Oval Tracks
- Dover Motor Speedway 1 miles
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway 1.058 miles
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- Phoenix Raceway 1.022 miles
- Backstretch : 1,551 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,179 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, IN
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Short Chute : 660 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Surface Asphalt
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Rounded-off Rectangle Track
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, IN
Rounded-off Rectangle
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns, usually labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow this symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
The "rounded-off rectangle" is a unique but now uncommon track shape. It resembles a rectangle with two long straights, two short straights, and four separate turns. Unlike traditional ovals with two continuous 180° radii, this shape has four distinct 90° curves, featuring "short chutes" between turns one and two and between turns three and four.
Homestead-Miami Speedway was originally designed as a rounded-off rectangle and called a "mini-Indy." However, its 1.5-mile length and sharp corners made it noncompetitive, leading to a reconfiguration into a traditional oval. Indianapolis Motor Speedway remains the only major track with this layout. These tracks are avoided due to poor sight lines, slow corners, and dangerous impact angles, though they are used by private manufacturers' test tracks. The only major short track with a rectangular layout resembles a rounded-off square with nearly identical straights and turns.
Rounded-off Rectangle Tracks
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Superspeedway
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, IN
2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
Superspeedway
A superspeedway is an oval track of 2 miles or longer. The most famous are Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, both 2.5 miles. Built in 1909 and 1959, they host the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, and Daytona 500.
Talladega Superspeedway, 2.66 miles, holds the fastest stock car speed record. Daytona and Talladega use restrictor plates to reduce speeds due to steep banking.
Other NASCAR superspeedways include Michigan International Speedway, Auto Club Speedway, and Pocono Raceway. Auto Club and Michigan are similar to intermediate tracks; Pocono and Indianapolis are long, flat tracks.
Superspeedway Tracks
- Daytona International Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,800 feet
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5 miles
- Backstretch : 3,300 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,300 feet
- Short Straightaways : 600 feet
- Short Chute : 660 feet
- Michigan International Speedway 2 miles
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Pocono Raceway 2.5 miles
- Back (Long Pond) Straightaway : 3,055 feet
- Front (Main) Straightaway : 3,740 feet
- Short (North) Straightaway : 1,780 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway 2.66 miles
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Road Course Track
Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen, NY
- Turn : Ranges from 6- to 10-degrees
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Track Width Ranges from 36 to 48 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
- Surface Asphalt
- Turns 7
Road Course
Road Course Tracks are unique in NASCAR, incorporating both left and right turns, as well as elevation changes and technical sections. This diversity demands excellent car handling and driver skill. Prominent road courses include Watkins Glen and Sonoma. Road courses challenge drivers with a combination of speed, precision, and adaptability.
Road Course Track Group
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- : Virtually flat
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Turn : Ranges from 6- to 10-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Road Course Track
Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen, NY
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Road Course
Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen, NY
2.428 miles
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Circuit of The Americas 3.14 miles
- Portland International Raceway 1.97 miles
- Sonoma Raceway 1.99 miles
- Watkins Glen International 2.428 miles
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Large Oval Track
Kansas Speedway
Kansas City, KS
- Backstretch : 5.5-degrees
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 10-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Turns 3 & 4 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
Large Oval
Large Oval Tracks include tracks that do not fit neatly into the traditional oval categories but share similarities with larger, more challenging circuits. These tracks offer a mix of speed and technical driving. When first developed, the Accupredict Tracks in this category included Atlanta (prior to the 2021 reconfiguration), California (Auto Club Speedway prior to its reconfiguration to a Short Track), Chicagoland (now defunct), Michigan, Las Vegas, Kansas, Kentucky (now defunct), and Texas. These tracks require a blend of strategic racing and high-speed performance.
Front and backstretches range from 5° to 12°.
Turns range from 17° to 24°.
Large Oval Track Group
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 5.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 10-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Turns 3 & 4 : 17- to 20-degrees variable banking
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 12-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18-degrees
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 5-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- : on Dogleg 5-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Kansas Speedway
Kansas City, KS
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Kansas Speedway
Kansas City, KS
1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Steep Track
Homestead Miami Speedway
Homestead, FL
- Backstretch : 4-degrees
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 4-degrees
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Track Width 55 feet
Steep
Steep Tracks have significant banking, allowing for higher speeds and better grip in the turns. This banking helps cars maintain higher cornering speeds, making races on these tracks particularly thrilling. Notable steep tracks include Bristol, Dover, and Darlington. Drivers' success on steep tracks often hinges on their ability to handle high-speed turns and maintain control under intense conditions.
Front and backstretches range from 2° to 9°.
Turns range from 18° to 30°.
Steep Track Group
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4- to 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24- to 30-degrees
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 3-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 1/2- to 25-degrees
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 24-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 24-degrees
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 4-degrees
- Frontstretch : 4-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 18 to 20-degrees
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 20-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 20-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Stadium Oval Track
Homestead Miami Speedway
Homestead, FL
Stadium Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. Although most ovals have two radii curves, they are often labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow a traditional symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
A sub-classification of the traditional oval shape is the "stadium" oval. Unlike the paper clip oval, the straight sections are relatively short compared to the curves, making it closest in form to a circle. The curves usually have high banking, offering a unique challenge.
Stadium Oval Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Homestead Miami Speedway
Homestead, FL
1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro, NC
- --
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Stadium Oval Track
North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro, NC
Stadium Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. Although most ovals have two radii curves, they are often labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow a traditional symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
A sub-classification of the traditional oval shape is the "stadium" oval. Unlike the paper clip oval, the straight sections are relatively short compared to the curves, making it closest in form to a circle. The curves usually have high banking, offering a unique challenge.
Stadium Oval Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro, NC
0.625 miles
- --
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Road Course Track
Circuit of The Americas
Austin, Texas
- Turns 20
- Surface Asphalt
Road Course
Road Course Tracks are unique in NASCAR, incorporating both left and right turns, as well as elevation changes and technical sections. This diversity demands excellent car handling and driver skill. Prominent road courses include Watkins Glen and Sonoma. Road courses challenge drivers with a combination of speed, precision, and adaptability.
Road Course Track Group
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- : Virtually flat
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Turn : Ranges from 6- to 10-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Road Course Track
Circuit of The Americas
Austin, Texas
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Road Course
Circuit of The Americas
Austin, Texas
3.14 miles
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Circuit of The Americas 3.14 miles
- Portland International Raceway 1.97 miles
- Sonoma Raceway 1.99 miles
- Watkins Glen International 2.428 miles
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Nashville Superspeedway
Lebanon, TN
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Surface Concrete
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Nashville Superspeedway
Lebanon, TN
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
Nashville Superspeedway
Lebanon, TN
1.333 miles
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Iowa Speedway
Newton, IA
- --
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
D-Shaped Oval Track
Iowa Speedway
Newton, IA
D-Shaped Oval
The tri-oval shape, conceived by Bill France, Sr. during the planning of Daytona, became popular during the construction booms of the 1960s and 1990s. It provided fans with superior sightlines, allowing an angular perspective of cars approaching and moving away, unlike traditional ovals that required fans to look back and forth like a tennis match. The tri-oval shape prevents the need to "lean" to see oncoming cars and creates more forward sight lines. However, modern tri-ovals are often called "cookie cutters" due to their nearly identical shapes and racing styles.
A variation of the tri-oval is the "D-shaped oval." Similar to a tri-oval, a D-shaped oval has a straight backstretch but features a long, sweeping frontstretch, giving it a layout resembling the letter D. This shape originated with Michigan International Speedway and Texas World Speedway, built in the 1960s. Initially used for superspeedways, this design now appears in some short tracks as well. For instance, Richmond Raceway was rebuilt in 1986 from a 0.542 mi stadium oval to a 0.750 mi D-shaped oval. The Iowa Speedway, explicitly designed as a D-oval, opened in 2006 and is another famous example of this layout.
D-Shaped Oval Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Kansas Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Michigan International Speedway
- Backstretch : 2,242 feet
- Frontstretch : 3,600 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
- Talladega Superspeedway
- Backstretch : 4,000 feet
- Frontstretch : 4,300 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 3,750 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 3,750 feet
- Texas Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
Iowa Speedway
Newton, IA
0.875 miles
- --
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Los Angeles, CA
- --
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Paper Clip Oval Track
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Los Angeles, CA
Paper Clip Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. While many ovals follow this symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks like the "paper clip" oval are also common.
The paper clip oval is a sub-classification of the traditional oval shape. It features two long straights connected by two sharp, tight-radius turns, resembling a paper clip. These tracks are challenging, with little banking, making the turns slow and tight to maneuver. This layout is classic for short tracks and some mile ovals. Most short tracks are paper clips, but some 1-mile tracks also have this shape.
Paper Clip Oval Tracks
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Los Angeles, CA
0.25 miles
- --
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
World Wide Technology Raceway
Madison, IL
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Egg-shaped Oval Track
World Wide Technology Raceway
Madison, IL
Egg-shaped Oval
An egg-shaped oval has non-parallel straights, resulting in curves with different radii. These tracks, often with unique shapes, flat corners, and hard braking zones, produce driving characteristics similar to road courses. Darlington Raceway, the most famous example, was built this way to avoid disturbing an existing minnow pond. Other tracks may share these irregular features, enhancing the driving challenge.
Egg-shaped Oval Tracks
- Darlington Raceway
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Intermediate
World Wide Technology Raceway
Madison, IL
1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Intermediate
These courses are 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) long, particularly 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Early in NASCAR history, this size was rare. By 1990, only five existed. Two - Marchbanks Speedway (1.4 miles) and Trenton Speedway (1.5 miles) - were demolished, leaving Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and Darlington Raceway. Most others were built after 1994, often called "cookie cutter" tracks due to perceived similarities.
In 1992, Charlotte added lights for night racing, now common at these tracks. Intermediate tracks typically have moderate to steep banking. Most modern tracks used in NASCAR balance high speeds with good sightlines, especially 1.5-mile tri- and quad-ovals.
Intermediate tracks were designed for stock cars. They remain a key part of the NASCAR racing calendar.
Intermediate Tracks
- Atlanta Motor Speedway 1.54 miles
- Backstretch : 1,800 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,332 feet
- Charlotte Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,360 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,952.8 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 2,400 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 2,040 feet
- Darlington Raceway 1.366 miles
- Backstretch : 1,29 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,229 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Kansas Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 2,207 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,721 feet
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,572 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,275 feet
- Nashville Superspeedway 1.333 miles
- Texas Motor Speedway 1.5 miles
- Backstretch : 1,330 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,250 feet
- World Wide Technology Raceway 1.25 miles
- Frontstretch : 1,922-feet
- Backstretch : 1,976 ft-feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Road Course Track
Portland International Raceway
Portland, OR
- Turns 12
- : Virtually flat
Road Course
Road Course Tracks are unique in NASCAR, incorporating both left and right turns, as well as elevation changes and technical sections. This diversity demands excellent car handling and driver skill. Prominent road courses include Watkins Glen and Sonoma. Road courses challenge drivers with a combination of speed, precision, and adaptability.
Road Course Track Group
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- : Virtually flat
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Turn : Ranges from 6- to 10-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Road Course Track
Portland International Raceway
Portland, OR
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Road Course
Portland International Raceway
Portland, OR
1.97 miles
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Circuit of The Americas 3.14 miles
- Portland International Raceway 1.97 miles
- Sonoma Raceway 1.99 miles
- Watkins Glen International 2.428 miles
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Flat Track
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
Indianapolis, IN
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
Flat
Flat Tracks feature minimal banking, making them unique in NASCAR. These tracks require drivers to rely more on skill and precision rather than speed. Key examples include Martinsville, New Hampshire, Phoenix, and Richmond. Performance on flat tracks is typically influenced by a driver's ability to handle tight turns and maintain consistent lap times.
Front and backstretches range from 0° to 9°.
Turns range from 7.5° to 14°.
Flat Track Group
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 9-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 9-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Iowa Speedway
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Turns 1 & 2 : 7.5-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 7.5-degrees
- Frontstretch : 2-degrees
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Martinsville Speedway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- Nashville Superspeedway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- Frontstretch : 9-degrees
- Backstretch : 6-degrees
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 2-degree
- Frontstretch : 2-degree
- Turns 1 & 2 : 12-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 12-degrees
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
- Phoenix Raceway
- Backstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Frontstretch : 0-degrees (flat)
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
- Pocono Raceway
- Turn 1 : 14-degrees
- Turn 2 : 8-degrees
- Turn 3 : 6-degrees
- Richmond Raceway
- Backstretch : 2-degrees
- Frontstretch : 8-degrees
- Turns 1 & 2 : 14-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 14-degrees
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Turns 1 & 2 : 11-degrees
- Turns 3 & 4 : 9-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Stadium Oval Track
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
Indianapolis, IN
Stadium Oval
A typical oval track consists of two parallel straights connected by two 180° turns. Although most ovals have two radii curves, they are often labeled as four 90° turns. While many ovals follow a traditional symmetrical design, asymmetrical tracks are not uncommon.
A sub-classification of the traditional oval shape is the "stadium" oval. Unlike the paper clip oval, the straight sections are relatively short compared to the curves, making it closest in form to a circle. The curves usually have high banking, offering a unique challenge.
Stadium Oval Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,076 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,076 feet
- Homestead Miami Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,760 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,760 feet
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- New Hampshire Motor Speedway
- Backstretch : 1,500 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,500 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway
- --
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Short Track
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
Indianapolis, IN
0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
Short Track
A short track is an oval less than one mile (1.6 km), often 0.5 miles (0.8 km) or shorter. Drivers usually start their careers on these tracks, nicknamed "bullrings" for their short length and fast action. Professional NASCAR races on short tracks often cover 500 or 400 laps. Many have lights for night races.
Short tracks are crucial for NASCAR's feeder series. Three are in the Cup Series: Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. Tracks with potential for future Cup races include Iowa Speedway (built in 2006), Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway (used until 1984), and Memphis Motorsports Park (hosted Busch Series races until the 2000s).
Short Track Tracks
- Bristol Motor Speedway 0.533 miles
- Backstretch : 650 feet
- Frontstretch : 650 feet
- Turns 1 & 2 : 588 feet
- Turns 3 & 4 : 588 feet
- Iowa Speedway 0.875 miles
- --
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 0.25 miles
- --
- Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park 0.685 miles
- Frontstretch : 699-feet
- Backstretch : 699-feet
- Martinsville Speedway 0.526 miles
- Backstretch : 800 feet
- Frontstretch : 800 feet
- North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625 miles
- --
- Richmond Raceway 0.75 miles
- Backstretch : 860 feet
- Frontstretch : 1,290 feet
Accupredict Track Groupings
Road Course Track
Chicago Street Race
Chicago, IL
- --
Road Course
Road Course Tracks are unique in NASCAR, incorporating both left and right turns, as well as elevation changes and technical sections. This diversity demands excellent car handling and driver skill. Prominent road courses include Watkins Glen and Sonoma. Road courses challenge drivers with a combination of speed, precision, and adaptability.
Road Course Track Group
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- : Virtually flat
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Turn : Ranges from 6- to 10-degrees
This grouping of tracks show a strong correlation on key metrics in driver finishes and is used in my Accupredict Driver Odds and Finish Projections.
NASCAR 'Shape' Groupings
Road Course Track
Chicago Street Race
Chicago, IL
Road Course
NASCAR road course tracks are unique, as they incorporate both left and right turns, unlike the traditional oval tracks. These tracks typically range from 2 to 4 miles (3.2 to 6.4 km) in length. Early in NASCAR history, road courses were less common, but they have gained popularity over the years.
Notable NASCAR road courses include Watkins Glen International, Sonoma Raceway, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. Watkins Glen and Sonoma have been mainstays in the NASCAR calendar, providing challenging layouts with elevation changes and technical turns. The Charlotte Roval, introduced in 2018, combines elements of the traditional oval with an infield road course, offering a unique hybrid experience.
Road courses require a different skill set, emphasizing braking, handling, and precision. These tracks add variety to the NASCAR schedule, challenging drivers with diverse racing conditions. Road course races often feature strategic pit stops and tire management, making them exciting and unpredictable events in the NASCAR season.
Road Course Tracks
- Chicago Street Race
- --
- Circuit of The Americas
- Portland International Raceway
- Sonoma Raceway
- Watkins Glen International
- Backstretch : 2,600 feet
- Frontstretch : 2,150 feet
NASCAR 'Size' Groupings
Street Circuit
Chicago Street Race
Chicago, IL
2.2 miles
- --
Street Circuit
A street circuit uses temporarily closed public roads in cities or towns for racing. Temporary facilities like paddocks and grandstands are installed for the event and removed afterward. The track surface is often bumpy with limited grip, and run-off areas are usually non-existent, making mistakes costly.
The Chicago Street Course, a 2.140 mi (3.444 km) circuit in Grant Park, is a prime example. Hosting the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series, it debuted on July 1–2, 2023. Initially a conceptual track on iRacing, it became a real-life circuit with roads closed days in advance and reopened within two weeks post-race. It is scheduled to host races again in 2024 and 2025.
Street Circuit Tracks
- Chicago Street Race 2.2 miles
- --