WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a permanent road racing circuit set in the hills of Monterey County, California, between the cities of Monterey and Salinas. Opened in 1957, the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course winds through rugged coastal terrain with dramatic elevation changes that make it one of the most distinctive and demanding tracks in North America. It is owned by Monterey County and operated by the nonprofit Friends of Laguna Seca, and over the decades it has carried several names, including Laguna Seca Raceway and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

The circuit's signature feature is the Corkscrew, a sharp left-right sequence that plunges roughly 59 feet of elevation over a short distance, often described as one of the most thrilling and intimidating corners in motorsport. Combined with blind crests, off-camber transitions, and fast sweeping sections, the layout rewards precise car control, commitment, and a deep understanding of vehicle dynamics, which is exactly why it has become a benchmark for drivers testing their skills.

Laguna Seca has hosted top-tier racing throughout its history, including the IndyCar Series, the IMSA SportsCar Championship, MotoAmerica, and historic gatherings such as the Monterey Motorsports Reunion held during Monterey Car Week. It has also welcomed MotoGP and the Superbike World Championship in past eras. For students of high performance driving, mastering Laguna Seca's elevation and the Corkscrew is a rite of passage and a true measure of car-control craft.