Former NASCAR racetrack in Colorado announces closure after 2026 season

An iconic race track has announced that it will be closing at the end of 2026.

Pikes Peak International Raceway held races in both the NASCAR Busch Series (now O'Reilly Series) and Truck Series between 1998 and 2005 on its one-mile oval track.

NASCAR Hall of Famers Ron Hornaday Jr. and Matt Kenseth won the inaugural Truck and Busch Series races at the track respectively, with current Hall of Fame nominee Greg Biffle winning races at the track in both series through his storied career.

The track, in Fountain, Colorado, will continue to host races for the rest of 2026 as planned until it closes its doors at the end of the year.

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Pikes Peak: 'More than just a racetrack'

An emotional statement shared on Tuesday read: "After years of horsepower, passion, memories, and community, we have an important announcement to share.

"Pikes Peak International Raceway’s 2026 season will be our final season of public motorsports events.

"PPIR has been more than just a racetrack—it has been a home for racers, riders, teams, families, fans, and automotive enthusiasts from across Colorado and beyond. From grassroots motorsports events and festivals to track days, drift nights, drag racing, and unforgettable memories made in the paddock, PPIR has been shaped by the incredible community that supported us year after year.

"To our drivers, renters, spectators, staff, partners, vendors, and supporters: thank you. Thank you for trusting us with your weekends, your events, your celebrations, and your passion for motorsports. Your energy is what made PPIR what it is today.
While the property is planned for future mixed-use redevelopment, plans are still in the early stages, with more information expected later in 2026.

"Most importantly—this is not necessarily the end of all PPIR events. We are actively exploring opportunities with other venues to carry our automotive lifestyle events and festivals into the future and continue growing these experiences for our community. The future relocation of select PPIR events is currently under consideration, with additional announcements expected later in 2026.

"For now, 2026 is business as usual, and we are committed to making this final season at PPIR one to remember. All scheduled events, festivals, track days, and experiences will continue as planned throughout the season.

"This isn’t goodbye just yet. We still have the 2026 season to celebrate everything PPIR has meant to this community, and we hope you’ll join us as we make these final laps together."