The iconic Irwindale Speedway, a cornerstone of NASCAR and short-track racing history, is preparing to wave the checkered flag for the final time this December. For 25 years, the Southern California track has been a hub of adrenaline, community, and racing legends. On December 21, the speedway will host one last star-studded event, promising a memorable send-off for fans and drivers alike.
The Final Showdown: Racing Meets Nostalgia
The Farewell Extravaganza will be a celebration of Irwindale’s storied history, featuring both seasoned professionals and unexpected participants. One of the standout names is Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, co-creator of the beloved animated series Phineas and Ferb. Marsh, an avid racing enthusiast, will take to the track in a spec late model car, sporting a helmet inspired by his iconic show.
Marsh shared his excitement on Instagram:
“Irwindale Speedway is having its last event ever… I’ll be lucky enough to be driving a spec late model in one of the races that night. Let’s make this final Irwindale Speedway event a night to remember.”
Fans attending the event will also have the chance to meet Marsh, get autographs, and take photos, adding a touch of nostalgia to the evening.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Joining Marsh on the track are NASCAR and ARCA standouts, including Cole Custer, Ryan Vargas, Lawless Alan, Tyler Reif, and Jagger Jones. This unique mix of talent ensures a night filled with thrilling competition and heartfelt tributes.
The event aims to honor the speedway’s impact on motorsport, offering fans one last chance to witness the roar of engines and the camaraderie that defined Irwindale.
A Legacy of Racing Excellence
Opened in 1999, Irwindale Speedway quickly became a breeding ground for talent and a staple of short-track racing. From NASCAR’s Toyota All-Star Showdown (2003–2010) to grassroots events that launched careers, the track has been integral to the racing community.
However, its journey has been far from smooth. Since 2012, rumors of closure have loomed, fueled by bankruptcy filings and ownership changes. Despite these challenges, the track persisted, hosting countless memorable moments.
Tim Huddleston, president of Irwindale Speedway & Event Center Inc., expressed gratitude in his farewell statement:
“Irwindale has been more than just a track. It’s been a home and gathering place for racing enthusiasts worldwide. We’re grateful for every moment and memory we’ve shared as a community.”
The End of an Era
Irwindale’s closure reflects a troubling trend in motorsport. The 2-mile California Speedway in Fontana recently faced a similar fate, with plans to convert it into a short track shelved in favor of commercial redevelopment. Rising maintenance costs and diminishing financial viability have made it increasingly difficult to preserve such venues.
The 20-mile proximity to Los Angeles makes Irwindale’s prime real estate attractive for industrial development. IDS Real Estate Group, the track’s current owner, plans to transform the site into a business park—a stark contrast to the high-octane thrills it once hosted.
A Community’s Farewell
The impending closure has sparked widespread discontent among fans and racers, many of whom consider Irwindale a vital piece of NASCAR’s history. For decades, the track brought together grassroots racers and top-tier professionals, creating an irreplaceable bond within the motorsport community.
This final event on December 21 isn’t just a race—it’s a tribute to the legacy of a track that has meant so much to so many. Fans, drivers, and industry professionals will gather to say goodbye, honoring the past while lamenting the loss of yet another piece of motorsport’s soul.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Short-Track Racing
As tracks like Irwindale and Fontana fade into history, questions loom about the future of short-track racing. Will NASCAR and other organizations find ways to preserve these community hubs, or will commercialization continue to take precedence?
One thing is certain: Irwindale Speedway’s final race will be more than a send-off—it will be a rallying cry for the preservation of grassroots motorsport.
December 21 marks the end of an era, but for fans of Irwindale Speedway, the memories will endure long after the lights go out.
