SONOMA, Calif. (Aug. 21, 2018) - Sonoma Raceway's annual June historic-car racing weekend, which has spanned more than 30 years, will take a spin under new management in 2019. Jeff O'Neill will lead the new group with plans to create a world-class event that will delight not only the drivers, but provide an extraordinary venue for spectators to enjoy these rare cars. O'Neill has tapped Cris Vandagriff to partner on this event.
The rebranded Sonoma Speed Festival is slated for May 31-June 2, 2019 on Sonoma Raceway's traditional 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course. The event will draw inspiration from top-tier motorsports events around the world to deliver an incredible collection of authentic historic cars, a great on-track experience for drivers and an interactive and enjoyable spectator event in the heart of California's premier wine-growing region.
"I am delighted to be part of the historic Sonoma Raceway," said O'Neill. "As the track celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2019, this event will showcase the amazing cars and drivers that made the track a part of motor-racing history."
With more than 60 years of historic racing between them, O'Neill and Vandagriff plan to create an immersive paddock experience that transports fans and drivers to different eras of motorsports history and feature legendary race cars and drivers while incorporating delicious food and wine from Sonoma's best vintners and chefs.
O'Neill is the founder of O'Neill Vintners & Distillers, one of California's largest wine producers. Away from the vineyard, O'Neill has a longstanding passion for historic car racing and collecting, including piloting his own Maserati 250F and Maserati Tipo 61 on track. Vandagriff, a third generation driver and organizer, brings a wealth of experience in historic racing.
Stay tuned to www.sonomaraceway.com for more information on the 2019 Sonoma Speed Festival. For more information or to enter your car, contact [email protected].
