Top Five U.S. Venues For IndyCar in 2017

2. Portland International Speedway

If there is one region of the country that remains relatively untouched by major motorsports, it is the Pacific Northwest. Only the NHRA has a footprint in the area, running the Northwest Nationals as part of their western swing. Perhaps IndyCar can be the next series to make a mark, returning to a track that once hosted CART and Champ Car.

Following the final Champ Car race at Portland in 2007, major renovations occurred at the facility, including a total repave. Turns 4, 5, 6, and 7 were all adjusted, and Formula One-style curbs were installed with hopes of attracting more top flight series of racing. But it didn’t work.

Outside of Champ Car the only other major series to make a mark at PIS was the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, which raced there in 1999 and 2000.

But having this untapped area of sports fans would bode well for IndyCar, considering the area’s strong support for a variety of other events, including soccer, basketball, and football.

If that support carries over to IndyCar, going to Portland could be a breakthrough. The series has been rumored to be coming since 2013 and now there could be an opening for it, possibly alongside the streets of Toronto. If PIS becomes part of the IndyCar calendar, it’s not just growth for that area but growth for the whole league.

Next: 1. Gateway Motorsports Park