Portland International Raceway

Overview

Portland International Raceway (PIR) is a versatile motorsport facility nestled in the heart of Portland, Oregon. This 1.97-mile (3.17 km) road course features 12 challenging turns and combines technical sections with straightaways that test both driver skill and vehicle performance. Located in North Portland near the Columbia River, the circuit is built on the former site of Vanport, a city destroyed by flooding in 1948. PIR hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including IndyCar races, motorcycle competitions, drag racing, and amateur racing series, making it a cornerstone of Pacific Northwest motorsport culture.

Technical Specifications and Track Features

The track layout at Portland International Raceway offers a well-balanced mix of challenges for drivers. Its configuration includes a main straight that allows vehicles to reach impressive speeds before entering the signature "Festival Curves" - a three-turn chicane that has been the site of many dramatic racing moments. The tight, technical back section includes a series of flowing S-curves that reward precise driving and proper car setup. The track surface has undergone several renovations to maintain modern safety standards while preserving the circuit's classic character. With minimal elevation changes, PIR focuses on testing braking, acceleration, and cornering techniques rather than dramatic uphill or downhill sections. The circuit can be configured in multiple layouts to accommodate different types of events and racing disciplines.

Facilities and Specialized Areas

PIR features comprehensive facilities to support its diverse event calendar. The paddock area provides ample space for teams and support crews, with garage facilities available for major events. Spectators benefit from multiple viewing areas that offer excellent sightlines of key overtaking zones and technical sections. The facility includes a separate drag strip that operates independently from the road course, allowing for concurrent events. PIR also houses a motocross track that attracts two-wheel enthusiasts throughout the racing season. Modern amenities include upgraded restrooms, concession areas, and a control tower with state-of-the-art timing and scoring systems. The circuit's location within Portland city limits makes it uniquely accessible compared to many racing venues, with convenient public transportation options available to spectators.

History

The land that now hosts Portland International Raceway has a poignant history. Originally the site of Vanport City, a hastily built housing development for shipyard workers during World War II, the area was devastated by catastrophic flooding in 1948. The abandoned streets of Vanport later formed the basis for a temporary racing circuit, with official development of PIR beginning in the early 1960s. The track hosted its first organized races in 1961 and has evolved substantially over the decades. PIR gained national prominence when it became a stop on the CART/Champ Car World Series calendar, hosting open-wheel racing from 1984 through 2007, with brief interruptions. After a hiatus, IndyCar racing triumphantly returned to PIR in 2018, reconnecting the facility with its open-wheel racing heritage. Throughout its history, Portland International Raceway has maintained a commitment to balancing professional motorsport events with community accessibility, including regular open track days and driver education programs.