Iowa Speedway#Indy Lights
{{short description|Motorsport track in the United States}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox motorsport venue
| Name = Iowa Speedway
| Time = UTC−06:00 (UTC−05:00 DST)
| Location = 3333 Rusty Wallace Drive, Newton, Iowa, 50208
| Coordinates = {{coord|41|40|40|N|93|0|52|W|region:US_type:landmark|display=inline,title}}
| Logo = 78 Black Outline.svg
| Logo_size = 160px
| Image = Iowa Speedway 2024.svg
| Image_caption = D-shaped Oval (2006–present)
| Image_size = 250px
| Capacity = 30,000
| Owner = NASCAR (November 2013–present)
Clement family (July 2011–November 2013)
U.S. MotorSport Entertainment (September 2006–July 2011)
| Broke_ground = {{Start date and age|df=yes|2005|06|21}}
| Opened = {{Start date and age|df=yes|2006|09|15}}
| Construction_cost= $70 million USD
| Former_names =
| Events = Current:
NASCAR Cup Series
Iowa Corn 350 (2024–present)
NASCAR Xfinity Series
Hy-Vee PERKS 250 (2011–2019, 2024–present)
U.S. Cellular 250 (2009–2019)
IndyCar Series
Synk 275 Powered by Sukup (2007–2020, 2022–present)
Farm to Finish 275 Powered by Sukup (2020, 2022–present)
Former:
NASCAR Truck Series
M&M's 200 (2009–2019)
Fan Appreciation 200 (2012–2013)
Rolex Sports Car Series (2007)
| Miles_first = True
| Layout1 = D-shaped Oval (2006–present)
| Surface = Asphalt
| Length_mi = 0.875{{efn|name=alpha|Length disputed; IndyCar uses a length of {{convert|0.894|mi|km}}.}}
| Length_km = 1.408
| Turns = 4
| Banking = Turns: 12–14°
Frontstretch: 10°
Backstretch: 4°
| Record_time = 0:17.4908
| Record_driver = {{flagicon|AUS}} Ryan Briscoe
| Record_car = Dallara IR-04
| Record_year = 2008
| Record_class = IndyCar
| Layout2 = Road Course (2006–present)
| Surface2 = Asphalt
| Length_mi2 = 1.300
| Length_km2 = 2.092
| Turns2 = 9
| Banking2 = Turns 1–2: 12–14°
Frontstretch: 10°
Backstretch: 4°
| Record_time2 = 0:41.624
| Record_driver2 = {{flagicon|CAN}} Michael Valiante
| Record_car2 = Riley MkXI
| Record_year2 = 2007
| Record_class2 = DP
| website = {{URL|http://iowaspeedway.com}}
}}
Iowa Speedway is a {{Convert|0.875|mi|km|abbr=on}}{{efn|name=alpha|Length disputed; IndyCar uses a length of {{convert|0.894|mi|km}}.}} oval short track in Newton, Iowa. Since its inaugural season of racing in 2006, the track has hosted a variety of racing events, including events sanctioned by NASCAR and IndyCar. NASCAR has owned the facility since 2013, with Eric Peterson currently serving as the track's president. Iowa Speedway is served by Interstate 80.
As of 2023, the track holds 30,000 seats. Along with the main track, the track complex also features seven road course layouts, including a {{Convert|1.300|mi|km|abbr=on}} road course layout that combines parts of the main track along with the infield road course to make a "roval".
After an initial proposal to build a {{Convert|1|mi|km|abbr=on}} track by businessmen Jerry Lowrie and Larry Clement failed in the early 2000s, in 2003, the Paul Schlaack-owned U.S. Motorsport Entertainment Corporation made a bid to build a shorter facility. After another delay due to a perceived lack of funds that lasted throughout 2004, groundbreaking commenced in mid-2005, with the facility holding its first races in September 2006. The sanctioning body of NASCAR later bought the track in 2013 to save the facility from financial issues.
Description
= Configurations =
The speedway in its current form is measured at {{Convert|7/8|mi|km}}, with 10 degrees of banking in the frontstretch, four degrees in the backstretch, and a progressive banking system utilized from 12 to 14 degrees in the turns.{{Cite web |last=Barnes |first=Joey |date=July 18, 2023 |title=The Setup: Iowa with Luke Mason |url=https://www.indycar.com/news/2023/07/07-18-setup-mason-iowa |access-date=March 18, 2024 |website=IndyCar |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045750/https://www.indycar.com/news/2023/07/07-18-setup-mason-iowa |url-status=live }} Varying sanctioning bodies have disputed the length of the track; NASCAR's official measurement is at 0.875 mi,{{Cite web |last=Engle |first=Greg |date=October 3, 2023 |title=With Iowa Joining The NASCAR Cup Series, Rest Of The 2024 Schedule Is Coming Into View |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/gregengle/2023/10/03/with-iowa-joining-the-nascar-cup-series-rest-of-the-2024-schedule-is-coming-into-view/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=March 18, 2024 |website=Forbes |language=en |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045750/https://www.forbes.com/sites/gregengle/2023/10/03/with-iowa-joining-the-nascar-cup-series-rest-of-the-2024-schedule-is-coming-into-view/ |url-status=live }} while IndyCar measures the track at {{Convert|0.894|mi|km}}.{{Cite web |last=Ryan |first=Nate |date=July 23, 2023 |title=IndyCar Iowa Race 2 points, results: Newgarden stays unbeaten on ovals in 2023 |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/motor-sports/news/indycar-iowa-race-2-points-results-newgarden-stays-unbeaten-on-ovals-in-2023 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045750/https://www.nbcsports.com/motor-sports/news/indycar-iowa-race-2-points-results-newgarden-stays-unbeaten-on-ovals-in-2023 |url-status=live }}
Along with the main track's construction, road course layouts that combined the main track with dedicated infield portions were constructed, with developers making seven road course layouts.{{Cite web |last=Cavin |first=Curt |date=September 24, 2006 |title=Why Here?: Iowa Speedway Opens For Business |url=https://www.autoweek.com/news/a2070661/why-here-iowa-speedway-opens-business/ |access-date=March 18, 2024 |website=Autoweek |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045750/https://www.autoweek.com/news/a2070661/why-here-iowa-speedway-opens-business/ |url-status=live }}
= Amenities =
The facility is served by Interstate 80, and is approximately {{Convert|35|mi|km}} east from the Iowa capital of Des Moines.{{Cite web |last=McKown |first=Eli |date=October 3, 2023 |title=Everything you need to know about the NASCAR Cup Series race coming to Iowa Speedway |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/2023/10/03/nascar-iowa-speedway-cup-series-coming-to-newton-what-to-know-tickets-2024-schedule-alcohol-laws/71042081007/ |access-date=March 18, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US}} According to a 2023 report by The Des Moines Register, it holds 30,000 seats.{{Cite web |last=McKown |first=Eli |date=October 2, 2023 |title=What a NASCAR Cup Series race would mean for Iowa Speedway and the state of Iowa |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/auto-racing/2023/10/02/nascar-iowa-cup-series-race-iowa-speedway-2024-schedule-stock-car-racing-newton/71037090007/ |access-date=March 19, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US}} In a 2006 Autoweek report, the track constructed 28 luxury suites; in recent years, extra temporary suites for its IndyCar races were developed by Hy-Vee.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Bruce |date=July 21, 2023 |title=How Hy-Vee Uses IndyCar To Deliver Its Message |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucemartin/2023/07/21/how-hy-vee-uses-indycar-to-deliver-its-message/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=Forbes |language=en |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063325/https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucemartin/2023/07/21/how-hy-vee-uses-indycar-to-deliver-its-message/ |url-status=live }}
Track history
= Planning and construction =
== Jerry Lowrie and Larry Clement failed proposal ==
In November 2000, Kentucky Speedway developer Jerry Carroll proposed to the Jasper County board of supervisors plans to build a $76 million, 40,000-seat, {{Convert|1|mi|km}} track in Newton, Iowa. With the proposal, Carroll sought for the county to issue $30-40 million worth of bonds to fund the project, along with seeking as much as an additional $35 million from the Vision Iowa program, a state economic growth program.{{Cite news |last=Olson |first=Jeff |date=November 22, 2000 |title=$76 million speedway proposed near Newton |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-76-million-spee/143425115/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315211209/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-76-million-spee/143425115/ |archive-date=March 15, 2024 |access-date=March 15, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-76-million-spee/143425136/ 5A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} However, by January 2001, Carroll abandoned the plan to focus on developing the Kentucky Speedway. As a result, California businessman Jerry Lowrie opted to replace Carroll in directing the project. Lowrie decided to decline to ask the county for bonds.{{Cite news |last=Beeman |first=Perry |date=January 24, 2001 |title=Developer plans race track near Newton |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-developer-plans/143426698/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315211206/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-developer-plans/143426698/ |archive-date=March 15, 2024 |access-date=March 15, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The project drew support from Newton mayor David Aldridge,{{Cite news |last=Beeman |first=Perry |date=January 25, 2001 |title=Newton sees track as economic engine |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-sees-trac/143426271/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315211207/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-sees-trac/143426271/ |archive-date=March 15, 2024 |access-date=March 15, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-sees-trac/143426302/ 5B] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} but later saw opposition from residents near the proposed site. The opposition claimed that building the site would be a nuisance for the rural residents and later tacked on Lowrie's unproven record of success.{{Cite news |last=Siebert |first=Mark |date=February 21, 2001 |title=Newton track has opponents |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-has/143426364/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053722/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-has/143426364/ |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |access-date=March 15, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=2B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |date=April 10, 2001 |title=Newton residents petition against raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-newton-residents-petition-ag/143426593/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315211210/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-newton-residents-petition-ag/143426593/ |archive-date=March 15, 2024 |access-date=March 15, 2024 |work=The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier |pages=A4 |via=Newspapers.com |agency=Associated Press |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
An approval from Vision Iowa was considered critical for the project to survive, with developers hoping to secure $20 million.{{Cite news |last=Olson |first=Jeff |date=June 12, 2001 |title=Money request critical to speedway plan |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-money-request-cr/143431776/ |access-date=18 March 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-money-request-cr/143431823/ 4C] |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318150920/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-money-request-cr/143431776/ |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} However, by August, the remaining available funding from Vision Iowa dropped lower than the amount needed.{{Cite news |last=Olson |first=Jeff |date=August 10, 2001 |title=Newton planners still pursue money |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-planners/143431910/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318150921/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-planners/143431910/ |archive-date=March 18, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=4C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The next month, Lowrie abandoned the project to focus on building a speedway in California, leaving the project to be led by race team owner Larry Clement.{{Cite news |last=Dukes Lee |first=Jennifer |date=September 29, 2001 |title=Developer backs out of Newton track plan |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-developer-backs/143426638/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318150926/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-developer-backs/143426638/ |archive-date=March 18, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Although Clement claimed that by October he had commitment from private anonymous investors totaling $7-10 million, Vision Iowa leaders refused to still give the remaining money, claiming that they did not feel that sufficient proof of total commitment from investors had been provided, with Vision Iowa demanding that the identities of the investors be released.{{Cite news |last=Dukes Lee |first=Jennifer |date=October 11, 2001 |title=Speedway plan draws questions |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-plan-dr/143432056/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318150923/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-plan-dr/143432056/ |archive-date=March 18, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=2B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Olson |first=Jeff |date=April 18, 2002 |title=Show us the proof, then comes the cash |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-show-us-the-proo/143432168/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318150924/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-show-us-the-proo/143432168/ |archive-date=March 18, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-show-us-the-proo/143432194/ 4C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The funding was rejected by the fall of 2002.{{Cite news |last=Krantz |first=Colleen |date=May 4, 2003 |title=Newton waits to go racing |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-waits-to/143608035/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319033512/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-waits-to/143608035/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-waits-to/143608055/ 8A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
== U.S. MotorSport Entertainment Corporation bid, delays, eventual construction ==
On April 16, 2003, the Newton City Council unanimously approved a proposed project for a $30 million, {{Convert|7/8|mi|km}}, 25,000-seat, multi-use racing facility headed by the U.S. MotorSport Entertainment Corporation and its CEO, Paul Schlaack.{{Cite news |last=Truman–Cook |first=Deanna |date=April 17, 2003 |title=Newton council fully OKs track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-council-f/143608462/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319033507/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-council-f/143608462/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=8B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The project proposal planned to build it near Interstate 80, with Newton officials in charge of approving the project rather than those from Jasper County. However, although the city planned to invest $9 million into the facility, they opted to wait to build the track until Schlaack found enough investors for the project. In June, NASCAR driver Rusty Wallace was announced as the leading designer of the project.{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=June 21, 2003 |title=Wallace to design Newton track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-wallace-to-desig/143608388/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319033507/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-wallace-to-desig/143608388/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-wallace-to-desig/143608418/ 2C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Schlaack unveiled plans in October, with the city now investing a planned $17.3 million with stated hopes of an opening date in 2005.{{Cite news |last=Witosky |first=Tom |date=October 4, 2003 |title=Newton racetrack plan unveiled |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-racetrack/143608276/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319033511/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-racetrack/143608276/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=2C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Sederstrom |first=Jill |date=March 25, 2004 |title=Racetrack set for 2005 opening |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-set-fo/143643460/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319033510/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-set-fo/143643460/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=10NW |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Although plans were made to hold groundbreaking in spring of 2004, construction was delayed in June due to a lack of funds for the now-$50 million project.{{Cite news |last=Krantz |first=Colleen |date=June 8, 2004 |title=Newton track stalls again; fate unclear |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-sta/143643494/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045753/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-sta/143643494/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-sta/143643514/ 6A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Eckhoff |first=Jeff |date=June 9, 2004 |title=Funding short for Newton track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-funding-short-fo/143643553/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045752/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-funding-short-fo/143643553/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
In February 2005, progress on the project resumed when developers announced that they had gathered enough funds; by this point, the budget had increased to $70 million, and the opening year was delayed until 2006.{{Cite news |last1=Eller |first1=Donnelle |last2=Gray |first2=Rob |date=February 26, 2005 |title=Race fans told again Newton has green flag |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-race-fans-told-a/143644189/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045756/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-race-fans-told-a/143644189/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-race-fans-told-a/143644222/ 3A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The developers later sought to pass a ten-year sales tax break bill; the proposed bill was the first of its kind proposed in the state of Iowa.{{Cite news |last=Eller |first=Donnelle |date=March 25, 2005 |title=Bills let track keep sales taxes |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-bills-let-track/143644704/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045754/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-bills-let-track/143644704/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-bills-let-track/143644747/ 9A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The bill drew bipartisan support from the Iowa General Assembly,{{Cite news |last1=Higgins |first1=Tim |last2=Ryberg |first2=William |date=March 26, 2005 |title=Tax deal for track in Newton finds favor |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-tax-deal-for-tra/143644909/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023137/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-tax-deal-for-tra/143644909/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=8C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-tax-deal-for-tra/143644927/ 7C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} and was passed from committee in late March.{{Cite news |last=Roos |first=Jonathan |date=March 30, 2005 |title=Panel OKs tax break for track at Newton |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-panel-oks-tax-br/143645001/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023145/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-panel-oks-tax-br/143645001/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} However, while the bill was supported by then-Governor of Iowa Tom Vilsack, the bill drew worries of draining the state's tax revenue based on future precedent, with Vilsack suggesting to retool the bill.{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=April 5, 2005 |title=Vilsack questions Newton tax idea |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-vilsack-question/143645051/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023141/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-vilsack-question/143645051/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Roos |first=Jonathan |date=April 6, 2005 |title=Racetrack makes Capitol pitch |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-makes/143645585/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023143/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-makes/143645585/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-makes/143645603/ 2B] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} It passed the Iowa House of Representatives on April 12,{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=April 13, 2005 |title=Speedway tax break cruises past House |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-tax-bre/143645623/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023140/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-tax-bre/143645623/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} and was later approved by Vilsack on May 4.{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=May 5, 2005 |title=Race officially is on to build Newton track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-race-officially/143645756/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322052137/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-race-officially/143645756/ |archive-date=March 22, 2024 |access-date=March 21, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-race-officially/143645786/ 6A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The project received further support with a promise from the Georgia-based UBG Financial Corporation to lend up to $57 million for the project; although, it was met with skepticism due to claims of finding "little physical evidence of [the] company".{{Cite news |last1=Eller |first1=Donnelle |last2=Witosky |first2=Tom |date=April 17, 2005 |title=Questions surround speedway lender |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-questions-surrou/143645710/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322052140/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-questions-surrou/143645710/ |archive-date=March 22, 2024 |access-date=March 21, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-questions-surrou/143645722/ 9A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
Groundbreaking was held on June 21, 2005.{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=June 22, 2005 |title=Oval starts taking shape |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-oval-starts-taki/143647068/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045758/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-oval-starts-taki/143647068/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-oval-starts-taki/143647087/ 2C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The project was met with optimism, as the economic impact of the facility for the city of Newton was seen as a satisfactory boost for a stagnating city; especially since the biggest employer of the city, Maytag, had begun major layoffs at its Newton factory.{{Cite news |last=Eller |first=Donnelle |date=September 24, 2005 |title=Speedway project drives Newton optimism |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-project/143695818/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023136/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-project/143695818/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=8C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-speedway-project/143695849/ 6C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} By August, Todd Melfi was appointed as the track's general manager.{{Cite news |last=Schnoffer |first=Chuck |date=August 10, 2005 |title=Knoxville Nationals start today |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/globe-gazette-knoxville-nationals-start/143919238/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063333/https://www.newspapers.com/article/globe-gazette-knoxville-nationals-start/143919238/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=Globe Gazette |pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/globe-gazette-knoxville-nationals-start/143919245/ B4] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} In mid-October, the track confirmed racing dates for the 2006 season with ARCA Re/Max Series{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=September 29, 2005 |title=Iowa Speedway slated for ARCA-RE/MAX race in 2006 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-sl/143747252/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023144/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-sl/143747252/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} and United States Auto Club (USAC)-sanctioned events, with a Hooters Pro Cup Series race being scheduled to christen the facility on September 15, 2006.{{Cite news |date=October 13, 2005 |title=USAC to join Newton racetrack mix in 2006 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-usac-to-join-new/143747649/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023142/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-usac-to-join-new/143747649/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=5C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Doxsie |first=Don |date=January 24, 2006 |title=Wallace tries to get track off to flying start |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/quad-city-times-wallace-tries-to-get-tra/143748963/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321023150/https://www.newspapers.com/article/quad-city-times-wallace-tries-to-get-tra/143748963/ |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |access-date=March 20, 2024 |work=Quad-City Times |pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/quad-city-times-wallace-tries-to-get-tra/143748983/ D2] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Two months later, developers secured a $40 million loan from Wells Fargo in replacement of UBG Financial, who seemingly abandoned the project.{{Cite news |last=Dinnen |first=S. P. |date=December 13, 2005 |title=Newton track moving 'full blast' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-mov/143696173/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063328/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-mov/143696173/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=10 |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} By April 2006, developers stated hopes of expanding the area to include a water park and a hotel nearby the facility.{{Cite news |last=Dahn |first=Jeff |date=April 16, 2006 |title=Iowa Speedway right on track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-gazette-iowa-speedway-right-on-track/143748905/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063330/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-gazette-iowa-speedway-right-on-track/143748905/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Gazette |pages=2C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} After the Maytag factory closed in May, the facility was depended on heavily by the Newton area to replace the economic bloodline of the city.{{Cite news |last=Harris |first=Bonnie |date=May 11, 2006 |title=Racetrack provides reasons for hope in business leaders |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-provid/143750204/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063332/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-racetrack-provid/143750204/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=6B |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} In June, the facility was rumored to hold an Indy Racing League (IRL) race weekend for 2007;{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=June 27, 2006 |title=Report: IRL to run at Newton next June |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-report-irl-to-r/143751199/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063325/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-report-irl-to-r/143751199/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-report-irl-to-r/143751227/ 3C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} the report was confirmed in August.{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=August 3, 2006 |title=IRL makes it official: Indy cars at Newton |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-irl-makes-it-off/143933042/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=2C |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063335/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-irl-makes-it-off/143933042/ |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
= First events, sales to Clement family and NASCAR =
The facility opened as scheduled on September 15, 2006, with Woody Howard winning the first race at the track.{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=September 17, 2006 |title=Late pass by Howard clinches 250 victory |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-late-pass-by-how/143933659/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063327/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-late-pass-by-how/143933659/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The race and its preliminary sessions were marred with excessive tire wear, with mandatory competition cautions being implemented prior to the event.{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=September 16, 2006 |title=Waving Caution Flag |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-waving-caution-f/143933514/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063336/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-waving-caution-f/143933514/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-waving-caution-f/143933538/ 4C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Three weeks later, the facility held its first music festival.{{Cite news |last=Munson |first=Kyle |date=October 2, 2006 |title=Southern fest rocks track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-southern-fest-ro/143933934/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323204217/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-southern-fest-ro/143933934/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-southern-fest-ro/143933945/ 3B] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} The next year, the facility held its first IRL race, with Dario Franchitti winning the first major race at the facility.{{Cite news |last=Carlson |first=John |date=June 25, 2007 |title=Indy 'Storms' Iowa |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-indy-storms-io/144149688/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053642/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-indy-storms-io/144149688/ |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-indy-storms-io/144149696/ 5A] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=June 25, 2007 |title=A Bumper Crop |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-a-bumper-crop-p/144149725/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053641/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-a-bumper-crop-p/144149725/ |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-a-bumper-crop-p/144149743/ 2C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} In late February 2008, chief financial officer Jerry Jauron replaced Stan Clement as the track's president.{{Cite news |date=February 25, 2008 |title=Iowa Speedway names Jauron as president |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/globe-gazette-iowa-speedway-names-jauron/144149250/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053640/https://www.newspapers.com/article/globe-gazette-iowa-speedway-names-jauron/144149250/ |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=Globe Gazette |pages=A4 |via=Newspapers.com |agency=Associated Press |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} That same year, the facility was awarded annual NASCAR races for 2009, with the second-tier NASCAR Nationwide Series (now known as the NASCAR Xfinity Series){{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=August 20, 2008 |title=New race spurs seating expansion |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-new-race-spurs-s/143964156/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323204218/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-new-race-spurs-s/143964156/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=3C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-new-race-spurs-s/143964187/ 4C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} and the third-tier NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=December 18, 2008 |title=NASCAR Truck Series comes rolling into Iowa |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-nascar-truck-ser/143963733/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323204219/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-nascar-truck-ser/143963733/ |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-nascar-truck-ser/143963763/ 2C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
Three years later, in accordance with a plan to transfer ownership of the track within five years, U.S. MotorSport Entertainment sold controlling interest of the facility to the Clement family, a family from Newton.{{Cite news |last=Emmert |first=Mark |date=July 6, 2011 |title=Iowa Speedway gets new ownership |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-ge/143966309/ |access-date=March 24, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-ge/143966322/ 3C] |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195026/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-ge/143966309/ |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Jauron left shortly thereafter in September,{{Cite news |last=Miller |first=Bryce |date=September 20, 2011 |title=Jauron to leave speedway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-jauron-to-leave/144044630/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195025/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-jauron-to-leave/144044630/ |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-jauron-to-leave/144044652/ 3B] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} handing over the track's control to Doug Fritz, the senior director of marketing for NASCAR.{{Cite news |last=Hamilton |first=Andy |date=October 1, 2011 |title=Newton track impresses new boss |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-imp/144045278/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195023/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-newton-track-imp/144045278/ |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=7C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} In 2013, the track sought an $8 million grant from the Iowa General Assembly to improve amenities, but failed.{{Cite web |last=Hamilton |first=Andy |date=August 1, 2013 |title=Iowa Speedway still lacking fuel for Sprint Cup stop |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nascar/2013/08/01/iowa-speedway-wants-sprint-cup-race-hurdles-remain/2610689/ |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=USA Today |language=en-US |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195022/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nascar/2013/08/01/iowa-speedway-wants-sprint-cup-race-hurdles-remain/2610689/ |url-status=live }} In the same year, the track was found to be in financial trouble, with the facility being late on bill payments. As a result, Fritz resigned, with track management claiming that the track was seeking a refinancing deal in early September.{{Cite news |last=Miller |first=Bryce |date=September 11, 2013 |title=Iowa Speedway lagging on bills; CEO resigns |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-la/144109556/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195028/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-la/144109556/ |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-la/144109565/ 6C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} Two months later, The Des Moines Register reported that the facility had been sold to the sanctioning body of NASCAR for $10 million,{{Cite news |last1=Leistikow |first1=Chad |last2=Miller |first2=Bryce |date=November 28, 2013 |title=Iowa Speedway gets powerful owner |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-ge/144109744/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195032/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-ge/144109744/ |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-ge/144109765/ 8C] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}{{Cite news |date=December 5, 2013 |title=Iowa Speedway reportedly sold for $10M to NASCAR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-re/144109791/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195026/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-iowa-speedway-re/144109791/ |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=2C |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}} with Jimmy Small taking over Fritz's position of leadership.{{Cite news |last=Miller |first=Bryce |date=December 12, 2013 |title=NASCAR opts for youthful eye to lead Newton |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-nascar-opts-for/144109818/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325195031/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-nascar-opts-for/144109818/ |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-nascar-opts-for/144109857/ 4B] |via=Newspapers.com |url-status=live }} {{Open access}}
With the purchase of the track, NASCAR chairman Brian France stated hopes of the facility hosting a Nationwide Series version of the NASCAR All-Star Race; he also said that he was not interested in giving the facility a Cup Series date as the schedule was "full".{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Bryce |date=May 15, 2014 |title=NASCAR's Brian France: All-Star event, Trucks on dirt possible in Iowa |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/auto-racing/2014/05/15/brian-france-nascar-iowa-speedway-nationwide-series/9120153/ |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US}} In February 2018, David Hyatt, the former president of the Motor Racing Network (MRN), replaced Small as the president of the track.{{Cite web |last=McFadin |first=Daniel |date=February 8, 2018 |title=David Hyatt named president of Iowa Speedway |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/david-hyatt-named-president-of-iowa-speedway |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323204216/https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/david-hyatt-named-president-of-iowa-speedway |url-status=live }} Hyatt stated hopes of expanding the facility, along with obtaining a NASCAR Cup Series weekend; particularly, the NASCAR All-Star Race.{{Cite web |last=Birch |first=Tommy |date=July 6, 2018 |title=Iowa Speedway president David Hyatt makes Cup Series in Newton 'top goal' |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/auto-racing/2018/07/06/iowa-speedway-nascar-indycar-newton-david-hyatt/759820002/ |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US}} By the following year, Hyatt claimed that Iowa Speedway had high chances of being awarded a Cup Series date in 2021.{{Cite web |last=Leistikow |first=Chad |date=May 31, 2019 |title=Leistikow: Iowa Speedway eyes 'best opportunity ever' to land NASCAR Cup Series race |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/2019/05/31/iowa-speedway-newton-best-chance-ever-nascar-monster-energy-cup-series-race-david-hyatt-interview/1284421001/ |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US}}
= Reported proposed sale, resurgence =
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the track's races for 2020 were either canceled or run with fewer spectators.{{Cite web |last=Leistikow |first=Chad |date=May 14, 2020 |title=In realigned schedule, NASCAR cancels its Iowa Speedway events for 2020 season |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/auto-racing/2020/05/14/nascar-cancels-its-iowa-speedway-events-2020-season-xfinity-series-trucks/5193841002/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427202109/https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/auto-racing/2020/05/14/nascar-cancels-its-iowa-speedway-events-2020-season-xfinity-series-trucks/5193841002/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Ryan |first=Nate |date=June 18, 2020 |title=IndyCar, ARCA will race before limited crowds July 17-18 at Iowa Speedway |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/motor-sports/news/indycar-arca-iowa-speedway-limited-crowds-july-17-18 |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063325/https://www.nbcsports.com/motor-sports/news/indycar-arca-iowa-speedway-limited-crowds-july-17-18 |url-status=live }} By mid-2020, journalist Robin Miller reported rumors that racing mogul Roger Penske was hoping to buy the facility to keep it on the IndyCar schedule; the facility was also rumored to be in financial trouble.{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Robin |author-link=Robin Miller (journalist) |date=July 21, 2020 |title=Penske weighing Iowa Speedway purchase |url=https://racer.com/2020/07/21/penske-weighing-iowa-speedway-purchase/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=Racer |language=en-US |archive-date=October 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004205450/https://racer.com/2020/07/21/penske-weighing-iowa-speedway-purchase/ |url-status=live }} Other rumors were also made at the same time that the track was going to be closed down.{{Cite web |last=James |first=Bob |date=July 21, 2020 |title=Is Iowa Speedway in Newton Nearing the End? |url=https://khak.com/is-iowa-speedway-in-newton-nearing-the-end/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=KHAK |language=en |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063329/https://khak.com/is-iowa-speedway-in-newton-nearing-the-end/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Caldwell |first=Clayton |date=July 27, 2020 |title=Losing Iowa Would Expose Truth That NASCAR Ignores Short Track Racing |url=https://frontstretch.com/2020/07/26/losing-iowa-would-expose-truth-that-nascar-ignores-short-track-racing/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=Frontstretch |language=en-US |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063327/https://frontstretch.com/2020/07/26/losing-iowa-would-expose-truth-that-nascar-ignores-short-track-racing/ |url-status=live }} The rumors of closing were repelled by former general manager Craig Armstrong, who claimed that although the facility would not host any NASCAR or IndyCar races in 2021, the situation was a "temporary setback", with the track still hoping to host club racing events.{{Cite web |last=Hyde |first=Troy |date=November 2, 2020 |title=Iowa Speedway has no imminent plans to close |url=https://www.newtondailynews.com/2020/11/02/iowa-speedway-has-no-imminent-plans-to-close/abqy8se/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=Newton Daily News |language=en |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063327/https://www.newtondailynews.com/2020/11/02/iowa-speedway-has-no-imminent-plans-to-close/abqy8se/ |url-status=live }} When the track reopened to full capacity in July 2021 for the NASCAR fourth-tier ARCA Menards Series, attendance was reported at 5,000, putting future events in jeopardy.{{Cite web |last=Kristl |first=Mark |date=July 27, 2021 |title=Iowa Speedway Needs Another Race, More Promotion for Success |url=https://frontstretch.com/2021/07/26/iowa-speedway-needs-another-race-more-promotion-for-success/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=Frontstretch |language=en-US |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063325/https://frontstretch.com/2021/07/26/iowa-speedway-needs-another-race-more-promotion-for-success/ |url-status=live }} However, a month later, IndyCar announced its return to the facility in 2022, this time with a doubleheader event.{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Nathan |date=August 17, 2021 |title=Iowa Speedway expected to return to IndyCar calendar in 2022, with Rahal sponsor Hy-Vee lending sponsorship |url=https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/motor/2021/08/17/indycar-hy-vee-expected-return-iowa-speedway-2022-schedule/8167647002/ |access-date=March 22, 2024 |website=Indianapolis Star |language=en-US |archive-date=March 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323063325/https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/motor/2021/08/17/indycar-hy-vee-expected-return-iowa-speedway-2022-schedule/8167647002/ |url-status=live }}
On October 2, 2023, reports by The Athletic claimed that NASCAR, in seeking a replacement for a failed attempt of trying to lure a Cup Series weekend at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for the 2024 season, opted to choose Iowa Speedway as a backup option.{{Cite web |last1=Bianchi |first1=Jordan |last2=Gluck |first2=Jeff |date=October 2, 2023 |title=NASCAR to add Iowa Speedway to 2024 Cup schedule |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4922448/2023/10/02/nascar-iowa-speedway-2024-schedule/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=March 21, 2024 |website=The Athletic |language=en |archive-date=February 6, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206030552/https://theathletic.com/4922448/2023/10/02/nascar-iowa-speedway-2024-schedule/ |url-status=live }} The decision was confirmed a day later, with the facility slated to hold its first Cup Series races since its opening.{{Cite web |last=Folsom |first=Chase |date=October 3, 2023 |title=Iowa Back on NASCAR Schedule |url=https://frontstretch.com/2023/10/03/iowa-back-on-nascar-schedule/ |access-date=March 21, 2024 |website=Frontstretch |language=en-US |archive-date=March 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322052138/https://frontstretch.com/2023/10/03/iowa-back-on-nascar-schedule/ |url-status=live }} In February 2024, Eric Peterson, a NASCAR regional director for corporate sales, was appointed to replace Hyatt as the track's president.{{Cite web |date=8 February 2024 |title=NASCAR names Eric Peterson president of Iowa Speedway, which will host its first Cup Series in June |url=https://apnews.com/article/nascar-iowa-speedway-6e3c2eae6feaff75164149323fce3321 |access-date=18 February 2024 |website=Associated Press |language=en |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045810/https://apnews.com/article/nascar-iowa-speedway-6e3c2eae6feaff75164149323fce3321 |url-status=live }}
Events
= Racing =
== NASCAR ==
{{Main|Iowa Corn 350|Hy-Vee PERKS 250}}The facility hosts an annual NASCAR weekend featuring the NASCAR Cup Series' Iowa Corn 350 and the NASCAR Xfinity Series' Hy-Vee PERKS 250.{{Cite web |last=Folsom |first=Chase |date=October 3, 2023 |title=Iowa Back on NASCAR Schedule |url=https://frontstretch.com/2023/10/03/iowa-back-on-nascar-schedule/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322052138/https://frontstretch.com/2023/10/03/iowa-back-on-nascar-schedule/ |archive-date=March 22, 2024 |access-date=March 21, 2024 |website=Frontstretch |language=en-US}} From 2009 to 2019, the track also hosted the Xfinity Series and Craftsman Truck Series events.{{Cite web |last=Engle |first=Greg |date=October 3, 2023 |title=With Iowa Joining The NASCAR Cup Series, Rest Of The 2024 Schedule Is Coming Into View |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/gregengle/2023/10/03/with-iowa-joining-the-nascar-cup-series-rest-of-the-2024-schedule-is-coming-into-view/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319045750/https://www.forbes.com/sites/gregengle/2023/10/03/with-iowa-joining-the-nascar-cup-series-rest-of-the-2024-schedule-is-coming-into-view/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=Forbes |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Joens |first=Philip |date=March 27, 2024 |title=NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Iowa Speedway June 15 sells out; Hy-Vee to be sponsor |url=https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/motor/auto-racing/2024/03/27/sellout-announced-for-nascar-xfinity-series-race-at-iowa-speedway-newton/73117012007/ |access-date=May 2, 2024 |website=The Des Moines Register |language=en-US}} From 2012 to 2013, the track hosted a second Truck Series race with the Fan Appreciation 200.{{Cite web |title=American Ethanol to sponsor both NCWTS events at Iowa Speedway |url=https://www.thegazette.com/2012/05/20/american-ethanol-to-sponsor-both-ncwts-events-at-iowa-speedway/ |access-date=2024-12-20 |website=www.thegazette.com |language=en-US}}
== IndyCar ==
{{Main|IndyCar Series at Iowa Speedway}}
The Indy Racing League (now known as the IndyCar Series) announced their intentions to run annual IndyCar races at the facility in 2006, with the first races being run in 2007. In 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, IndyCar opted to run a doubleheader at the facility.{{Cite web |last=Sheets |first=Jocelyn |date=June 20, 2020 |title=IndyCar's doubleheader at Iowa Speedway will have fans in the stands |url=https://www.newtondailynews.com/2020/06/20/indycars-doubleheader-at-iowa-speedway-will-have-fans-in-the-stands/ajxsiq9/ |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=Newton Daily News |language=en |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053637/https://www.newtondailynews.com/2020/06/20/indycars-doubleheader-at-iowa-speedway-will-have-fans-in-the-stands/ajxsiq9/ |url-status=live }} IndyCar decided to stick with the doubleheader format when the series resumed racing at the facility in 2022.
== Other racing events ==
The facility has played host to a variety races hosted by varying sanctioning bodies, including the ARCA Menards Series, the Rolex Sports Car Series,{{Cite news |last=Gray |first=Rob |date=July 29, 2006 |title=Rolex races will run at Iowa in 2007 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-rolex-races-will/143933074/ |access-date=March 25, 2024 |work=The Des Moines Register |pages=1C, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-rolex-races-will/143933087/ 7C] |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053638/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-des-moines-register-rolex-races-will/143933074/ |url-status=live }} the Pro Mazda Championship,{{Cite web |date=July 19, 2015 |title=Pro Mazda: Tan moves into title contention with runaway Iowa victory |url=https://racer.com/2015/07/19/pro-mazda-tan-moves-into-title-contention-with-runaway-iowa-victory/ |access-date=March 26, 2024 |website=Racer |language=en-US |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053637/https://racer.com/2015/07/19/pro-mazda-tan-moves-into-title-contention-with-runaway-iowa-victory/ |url-status=live }} and the USF2000 Championship.{{Cite web |last=DeHarde |first=Christopher |date=July 9, 2017 |title=Askew Dominates USF2000 Race at Iowa |url=https://motorsportstribune.com/oliver-askew-dominates-iowa/ |access-date=March 26, 2024 |website=Motorsports Tribune |language=en-US |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326053637/https://motorsportstribune.com/oliver-askew-dominates-iowa/ |url-status=live }}
Lap records
As of July 2024, the fastest official race lap records of the Iowa Speedway are listed as:
Notes
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{commons category-inline|Iowa Speedway}}
{{Navboxes|list=
{{NASCAR Cup Series racetracks}}
{{NASCAR Xfinity Series racetracks}}
{{Indy Racing League}}
{{Indy Lights racetracks}}
{{ARCA tracks}}
{{NASCAR K&N Pro Series racetracks}}
{{NASCAR Truck Series racetracks}}
{{IMSA Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge racetracks}}
{{Pro Mazda Championship race venues}}
{{USF2000 National Championship race venues}}
{{USAC National Sprint Car Series race venues}}
{{USAC National Midget Series race venues}}
{{USAC Silver Crown race venues}}
{{Grand-Am circuits}}
}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:ARCA Menards Series tracks
Category:IndyCar Series tracks
Category:Buildings and structures in Jasper County, Iowa
Category:Motorsport venues in Iowa
Category:Tourist attractions in Jasper County, Iowa
Category:NASCAR races at Iowa Speedway