What are some of the largest motor races in the world?
There was a debate in the Repco Garage office, so here is the list of the biggest races in the world.
Indy 500
Arguably the biggest race in the world as 300,000-350,000 Americans venture to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Memorial Day weekend to watch 33 of the best drivers race around the ‘Brickyard’ for 200 laps. Will Power was the first Australian winner in 2018.
Monaco Grand Prix
The most prestigious Grand Prix on the calendar is in the small principality of Monaco. The circuit is tight, but full of history having started in 1929 and although the layout makes passing near-impossible, it is still a race all the drivers want to win. It’s part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the race above and the one below…
24 Hours of Le Mans
A true test of driver and machine, manufacturers have been attending Le Mans to highlight reliability since 1923. Now with the Hypercar and GT3 eras bringing a flurry of manufacturers back to ‘La Sarthe’, the interest continues to grow for this legendary endurance race.
Coca-Cola 600
NASCAR’s biggest race is also held on the Memorial Day weekend just like the Indy 500 and many have attempted to do both, the last being Kyle Larson. The first race was in 1960 at Charlotte Motor Speedway and has been held ever since consisting of 600 miles or 400 laps.
Daytona 500
Or is NASCAR’s biggest race the Daytona 500? First held in 1959, the Daytona event lasts for 200 laps as its prestige is revered throughout NASCAR. It has been the season-opening race for the NASCAR season since 1982 and has attracted 20 million viewers on TV on Presidents Day weekend. The winner is presented with the Harley J. Earl Trophy.
Repco Bathurst 1000
The Repco Supercars Championship’s annual pilgrimage to Bathurst is steeped in history. The 161-lap event held in early October is a bucket list event for Australians and internationals alike. From Mini Coopers to Ford Falcons, Holden Commodores and Nissan GT-Rs. Although the top of the mountain has calmed down, the Repco Bathurst 1000 is still is the greatest achievement in Australian motorsport.