WATKINS GLENINTERNATIONAL

Watkins Glen International has a history unlike any other track in NASCAR. It began in 1948 when a group of enthusiasts organized a road race through the streets of Watkins Glen village, winding past storefronts and through the scenic Finger Lakes countryside.

Those early street races attracted huge crowds and international attention, but safety concerns led to the construction of a permanent facility in 1956. The new course, built on a hillside overlooking Seneca Lake, quickly became one of America's premier racing venues.

The track is famous for its technical challenges. The 11-turn layout includes the demanding "Bus Stop" chicane, the high-speed Esses, and the iconic "Boot" section that was added in 1971. These features test driver skill in ways that oval tracks simply cannot.

For NASCAR, Watkins Glen represents a different kind of challenge. Drivers who excel on ovals must adapt their techniques for road racing—using brakes differently, managing tire wear through corners, and positioning their cars for the next turn rather than just the next straightaway.

The Finger Lakes region provides a stunning backdrop for racing. Fans camp on the hillsides, enjoying wine from local vineyards while watching some of NASCAR's most skilled drivers navigate one of motorsport's most challenging circuits.