As NASCAR continues to thrill fans with high-speed action and intense rivalries, Sonoma Raceway remains a defining location on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar. Since the series debuted at the track in 1989, Sonoma's serpentine road course has hosted numerous unforgettable moments that have cemented its status as one of the most exciting venues in NASCAR.
To celebrate the rich history of NASCAR racing in wine country, Sonoma Raceway is proud to highlight ten of the most spectacular moments from NASCAR races at the historic racetrack. The moments span decades of dramatic finishes, heroic drives, and unforgettable drama, all of which have left an indelible mark on the sport's history.
- Dale Earnhardt's One and Only Road Course Victory (May 7, 1995)
In what would eventually become his only victory on a road course in NASCAR in his storied career, the legendary Dale Earnhardt passed Mark Martin with less than ten laps to go in Turns 5 and 6 of the Carousel, a section of the course known for how difficult it is to pass other drivers, and claimed the victory. His win at then-Sears Point Raceway proved Earnhart's versatility and further solidified his legacy as one of NASCAR's all-time greats.
- Ernie Irvan's Remarkable Comeback (June 7, 1992)
After being black-flagged for crossing the start line ahead of pole winner Ricky Rudd, Ernie Irvan's race appeared all but over. However, Irvan mounted a remarkable comeback, passing 41 cars to take the checkered flag in a thrilling Save Mart Supermarkets 300 race. His victory was a testament to perseverance and skill, and it remains one of the greatest upsets in NASCAR history.
- Jeff Gordon's Track Record Victory (June 25, 2006)
Jeff Gordon's fifth win at Sonoma Raceway in 2006 was a defining moment in his Hall of Fame career. With his victory, Gordon set a track record that still stands today for the most laps led in a single race (92 laps in 2004). His win in 2006 was a dominating performance that solidified his road course prowess.
- Tony Stewart's Emotional Final Win (June 26, 2016)
In what would be the final victory of his illustrious NASCAR Cup Series career, Tony Stewart made a thrilling last-lap pass of Denny Hamlin at Turn 11. The win, his third at Sonoma, ended an 84-race winless streak and provided a fitting conclusion to his storied NASCAR career.
- Suárez Becomes First Mexican-Born Driver to Win (June 12, 2022)
Emotional is an understatement. In just his second season with Trackhouse Racing, Daniel Suárez dominated the Final Stage of the race and etched his name into the history books forever by becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win at the NASCAR Cup Series level.
- Kyle Busch's Improbable Injury-Stricken Victory (June 28, 2015)
Kyle Busch's victory in 2015 was a pivotal moment in his quest for his first NASCAR Cup Series championship. It was Busch's first win of the season after missing 11 races due to a compound fracture of his right leg and a fractured left foot in a crash at Daytona International Speedway. His triumph at Sonoma was an emotional and significant turning point in his career.
- Jimmie Johnson Finally Wins on a Road Course (June 20, 2010)
Marcos Ambrose appeared set for victory in 2010, but a miscalculation under caution led to his car stalling on the hillside up to Turn 2 as he tried to save fuel. This costly mistake handed the win to Jimmie Johnson, who claimed his first-ever NASCAR road course win. It was a dramatic twist that left fans on the edge of their seats.
- Larson Wins at a Race He Grew Up Attending as a Kid (June 6, 2021)
Elk Grove, CA, native Kyle Larson grew up coming to races at then-Sears Point Raceway and then eventually Infineon Raceway. In June of 2021, he fulfilled every young racing fan's dream and claimed victory at his home track, celebrating with his friends and family in the stands.
- Ricky Rudd Wins the Inaugural Race (June 11, 1989)
The inaugural Winston Cup Series race at then-Sears Point Raceway in 1989 saw Ricky Rudd outduel Rusty Wallace in a fierce battle for the lead. The two drivers exchanged positions multiple times through the corners, with Rudd ultimately crossing the finish line just 1.1 seconds ahead of Wallace to claim the first NASCAR win in Sonoma history. This thrilling race set the stage for NASCAR's continued success in Sonoma.
- The Rudd-Allison Controversy (June 9, 1991)
Ricky Rudd thought he had won the 1991 race when he crossed the finish line first, but a penalty issued two and a half hours after the race handed the victory to Davey Allison. Rudd had been penalized for making contact with Allison on Lap 73, resulting in one of the most controversial and dramatic moments in NASCAR history.
Looking Ahead
As Sonoma Raceway prepares for another thrilling season of NASCAR racing, fans can look forward to more heart-stopping moments on this iconic road course. The NASCAR Cup Series returns to Sonoma Raceway for its only California stop of the season on July 11-13, 2025. Whether it's a battle for the lead, a dramatic pass, or a surprise victory – be a part of history and join us this summer!
Tickets, premium, upgrades, camping, and parking options are all on sale now at SonomaRaceway.com or by calling (800) 870-RACE [7223].
