History of Michigan International Speedway in Timeline
Michigan International Speedway (MIS) is a 2-mile D-shaped speedway located in Cambridge Township, Michigan. Known for its wide racing surface and high banking, it's considered one of motorsports' premier facilities. The track is primarily used for NASCAR events and is owned by NASCAR. Its location in southeastern Michigan makes it accessible from Detroit, Ann Arbor, Lansing, and Toledo.
September 28, 1967: Groundbreaking Ceremony
On September 28, 1967, groundbreaking took place for the Michigan International Speedway, marking the start of construction for the D-shaped oval track.
October 13, 1968: First Race at Michigan International Speedway
The first race at Michigan International Speedway occurred on October 13, 1968. It was a USAC 250 mile Championship Car Race, won by Ronnie Bucknum.
1971: Bankruptcy of American Raceways
In 1971, American Raceways, the company controlling Michigan International Speedway, went bankrupt.
1972: Roger Penske Purchases Speedway
In 1972, Roger Penske acquired Michigan International Speedway for an estimated $2 million, significantly upgrading the facility over time.
1997: Renamed to Michigan Speedway
From 1997 to 2000, the track was referred to as Michigan Speedway for consistency with other tracks owned by Penske's Motorsports International.
1999: Purchase by International Speedway Corporation
In 1999, Michigan International Speedway was purchased by International Speedway Corporation.
2000: Addition of Turn 3 Grandstand
In 2000, 10,800 seats were added via a turn 3 grandstand, increasing the speedway's capacity.
2000: Renamed Back to Michigan International Speedway
In 2000, Michigan Speedway was renamed back to Michigan International Speedway following its purchase by International Speedway Corporation.
2004: Largest Renovation Project Starts
The largest renovation project in the history of Michigan International Speedway started in 2004, leading to significant upgrades for race fans.
2005: Renovation Project Completed
In 2005, the renovation project at Michigan International Speedway was completed, enhancing the facility with new viewing towers, corporate suites, and more.
2010: Inaugural Michigan Wine and Beer Festival
Since 2010, Michigan International Speedway has hosted the Michigan Wine and Beer Festival, attracting numerous visitors each year.
2012: Track Repaving and New Campsites
The track at Michigan International Speedway was repaved in 2012, along with the addition of new luxury campsites in turn 3.
2013: Inaugural Faster Horses Festival
Since 2013, Michigan International Speedway has been the venue for the annual Faster Horses country music festival.
2018: Seating Capacity Reduction Report
In 2018, it was reported that the seating capacity at Michigan International Speedway was reduced from 71,000 to 56,000.
January 28, 2019: Seating Capacity Reduced
On January 28, 2019, ISC's 2018 annual report revealed that Michigan International Speedway's track seating was reduced from 71,000 to 56,000.
June 2019: Fastest Official Race Lap Records
As of June 2019, the fastest official race lap records at Michigan International Speedway were recorded.
August 2019: Current Status Update
As of August 2019, Michigan International Speedway continues to host various racing and non-racing events.