The 4 Best Race Series in the World in 2023 (and more)

January 4, 2023

The Best Car Racing Series in the World

Car racing is a beloved sport that has captured the hearts and minds of fans around the globe. From touring cars to sports cars, open-wheel to off-road, there are countless series that showcase the thrill of high-speed competition. But which ones are the best? In this article, we will examine several of the top car racing series in the world and evaluate them based on criteria such as popularity, competition level, history, and spectacle.

Formula One

Formula One is the premier class of open-wheel auto racing defined by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). It is considered the highest level of competition in the sport and has a rich history dating back to the 1950s. The series is made up of teams that represent different countries and constructors that build the cars. Each team fields two drivers who compete in a series of races known as Grand Prix.

The cars of Formula One are highly advanced machines that push the boundaries of technology and performance. They are powered by hybrid power units that consist of a V6 engine and an energy recovery system (ERS). The rules of the series are constantly evolving to encourage innovation and improve safety. For example, the halo cockpit protection device was introduced in 2018 to protect drivers from head injuries caused by debris.

Formula One races are held at iconic tracks and venues around the world, such as the Circuit de Monaco, Silverstone Circuit, and Suzuka Circuit. These circuits are known for their challenging layouts and high speeds, which require the utmost skill and bravery from the drivers. Speaking of drivers, Formula One has seen many legendary figures grace its grid over the years, such as Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton. These drivers have achieved tremendous success and left a lasting impact on the sport.

Formula One is a global phenomenon that attracts a massive following of fans and spectators. Its races are broadcast in over 200 countries and have a combined annual television audience of over 500 million. The series is also known for its glamour and prestige, with lavish paddocks, celebrity guests, and high-end sponsorships. It is no wonder that Formula One is considered the pinnacle of car racing.

NASCAR

NASCAR is a stock car racing series that originated in the United States in the 1940s. It is named for the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, which sanctions and governs the series. NASCAR races are held at tracks across the country, with a focus on the "Southern" circuits such as Daytona International Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, and Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The cars of NASCAR are based on production vehicles, but they are heavily modified for racing. They are powered by V8 engines and are required to meet certain specifications such as weight and aerodynamics. The rules of NASCAR are designed to create close competition and promote a high level of contact between the cars. This results in exciting racing that often sees multiple lead changes and thrilling finishes.

NASCAR has a large and passionate fan base that is deeply ingrained in American culture. The series is known for its loyal followers, who often attend races in person and paint their vehicles with the colors of their favorite drivers and teams. Some of the most popular drivers and teams in NASCAR history include the "big three" of Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Jeff Gordon, as well as current stars such as Chase Elliott, Kyle Larson, and Martin Truex Jr.

NASCAR is the most popular form of motor racing in the United States and has a significant presence on the global stage. It attracts a massive television audience and has great sponsorships from major brands. It is also home to some of the most iconic events in all of motorsports, such as the Daytona 500 and the Southern 500. These races are known for their rich history and dramatic finishes, and they are considered crown jewels of the NASCAR calendar.

IndyCar

IndyCar is an open-wheel racing series that is based in the United States and sanctioned by the Indy Racing League (IRL). The series was formed in 1996 as a result of a split in American open-wheel racing, and it has since become the premier level of competition in the country. IndyCar races are held at tracks across the United States, including the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which hosts the famed Indianapolis 500.

The cars of IndyCar are similar to those of Formula One, but they have a few key differences. They are powered by 2.2-liter V6 engines that produce over 700 horsepower, and they are equipped with aero kits that allow teams to customize their aerodynamics. The rules of IndyCar are designed to promote close racing and create a level playing field for teams. This results in exciting competition that often sees multiple lead changes and dramatic finishes.

IndyCar has a long and storied history that is deeply rooted in American motorsports. It has produced many legendary drivers over the years, such as A.J. Foyt, Rick Mears, and Mario Andretti. These drivers have achieved tremendous success and left a lasting impact on the sport. Today, IndyCar is home to a talented crop of drivers such as Scott Dixon, Josef Newgarden, and Alexander Rossi, who are leading the way for the next generation.

IndyCar is known for its high speeds and close racing, which make it one of the most exciting forms of motorsports in the world. It attracts a devoted fan base and has great sponsorships from major brands. The Indianapolis 500, in particular, is a beloved event that is considered one of the greatest races in the world. It is held on the last Sunday in May and is known for its pageantry, tradition, and drama.

World Endurance Championship (WEC)

The World Endurance Championship (WEC) is an international sports car racing series that is organized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). It was formed in 2012 as a merger of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup and the European Le Mans Series. The WEC is made up of several classes of cars that compete in endurance races, which are typically six hours or longer in duration. The most prestigious event on the WEC calendar is the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is held annually at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France.

The cars of the WEC are divided into several categories based on their performance level and technology. The top class is known as LMP1 (Le Mans Prototype 1), which consists of highly advanced and powerful machines that are built specifically for endurance racing. The rules of the WEC are designed to encourage innovation and promote close competition between the teams. This results in thrilling races that often see multiple lead changes and dramatic finishes.

The WEC is home to some of the most skilled drivers and teams in the world. It has seen many iconic manufacturers over the years, such as Porsche, Audi, and Toyota, who have achieved tremendous success and left a lasting legacy in the sport. Today, the WEC is dominated by Toyota and Alpine, who are leading the way in the LMP1 class.

The WEC is a highly respected series that is known for its technical innovation and global appeal. It attracts a dedicated following of fans and has great sponsorships from major brands.

Other Notable Car Racing Series

In addition to the four main car racing series mentioned above, there are many other notable championships that are worth mentioning. Here are a few examples:

Touring car championships: These are series that feature modified production cars that race on circuits around the world. Some examples include the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) in Germany, the Super GT in Japan, and the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) in the United Kingdom. These series are known for their close racing and passionate fan bases.
Sports car championships: These are series that feature high-performance sports cars that race on tracks and in endurance events. Some examples include the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in the United States and the GT World Challenge in Europe. These series showcase the latest technology and provide a platform for top manufacturers to compete against each other.
Rally championships: These are series that feature cars that compete on a variety of surfaces, including dirt, gravel, and tarmac. They are held on public roads that are temporarily closed for the event. Some examples include the World Rally Championship (WRC) and the European Rally Championship (ERC). These series are known for their high speeds and technical demands, which require a high level of skill from the drivers.
Off-road racing championships: These are series that feature vehicles that compete on rough and rugged terrain, such as deserts, mountains, and forests. They are held over long distances and often require a high level of endurance and navigation skills. Some examples include the Dakar Rally, the Baja 1000, and the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies. These series are known for their extreme environments and challenging conditions.

In conclusion, there are many car racing series in the world that offer a unique and exciting brand of competition. From the glamour and prestige of Formula One to the high speeds and close racing of IndyCar, each series has its own appeal and charm. NASCAR and the WEC are also notable championships that have a strong following and great traditions. And there are many other series, such as touring cars, sports cars, rallies, and off-road racing, that offer a diverse range of motorsports action.

Ultimately, determining the "best" car racing series is a subjective matter that depends on personal preferences and criteria. Some may prefer the spectacle and history of Formula One, while others may enjoy the technical innovation and endurance challenges of the WEC. Some may be drawn to the passionate fan base and cultural significance of NASCAR, while others may appreciate the close racing and diversity of IndyCar. Whatever your taste may be, there is a car racing series that is sure to satisfy it.