Watkins Glen International, located in New York’s Finger Lakes region, is widely recognized as the birthplace of post-war road racing in North America. Racing began in 1948 with the Watkins Glen Grand Prix, initially held on public roads before a permanent circuit was established. The track hosted its first NASCAR Grand National race in 1957, followed by Formula One’s United States Grand Prix from 1961 to 1980, attracting some of motorsports’ most legendary drivers. After financial difficulties and a temporary closure in the early 1980s, Watkins Glen experienced a revival when NASCAR returned in 1986. Today, the circuit hosts major events including NASCAR, IMSA’s six-hour endurance race, SCCA competitions, and vintage racing. Known for its challenging high-speed corners, elevation changes, and iconic sections such as “The Esses,” “The Bus Stop,” and “The Boot,” Watkins Glen remains one of America’s most celebrated road courses. The circuit also features four configurations in iRacing, all updated with a new laser scan for the 2022 season.