ST. LOUIS – World Wide Technology Raceway officials are managing many improvements to the venue in advance of its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series date on June 5.
Track officials are focusing heavily on the highly desirable infield experience including premium camping sites, a large interactive fan entertainment area adjacent to the garages, and upgraded driver and team owner access. The hospitality suite tower is undergoing renovation as well with updated interiors and an enhanced VIP entrance, which are part of more than $40 million in improvements for the upcoming racing season.
“We are receiving strong interest in naming rights for the race and will unveil our sponsor and related fan opportunities soon,” said Curtis Francois, owner and CEO, World Wide Technology Raceway.
In the first months since its announcement, the upcoming Cup Series race at World Wide Technology Raceway has earned significant fan and sponsor interest, generating thousands of ticket deposits and more than 500 inquiries for hospitality suites and on-site camping experiences.
More than half of the available tickets for the race have been claimed by existing ticket holders with the balance available for public sale on Dec. 15.
Improvements outside the venue will upgrade the driver, race and fan experience as Ameren Illinois makes critical enhancements to bolster the local electric grid that serves customers in and around the race track, including upgrading the two circuits currently feeding the venue and adding a third circuit.
“The technology that drives modern racing, coupled with on-site attendance from broadcast media outlets and more than 60,000 fans, requires significant power, and Ameren Illinois is helping ensure we host a seamless event for all,” said Francois.
“We know the NASCAR Cup Series race is going to have a tremendous economic impact on the region,” said Richard J. Mark, chairman and president, Ameren Illinois. “This upgrade, which is part of our overall statewide plan to build a cleaner, greener, more resilient grid, plays a role in making WWTR a premier motorsports venue.”
An economic impact study by The Rawlings Sports Business Management Department at Maryville University projects the upcoming Cup Series race will produce at least $60 million in economic impact for the St. Louis market annually.