If you love car races, chances are that your bucket list includes attending at least one epic race in your lifetime. With multiple motorsport events that happen in different parts of the world, you might want to update your bucket list and consider attending one of the most famous auto races in the world. To that end, here are some of the most prestigious auto races that you must know about.
- Monte Carlo Rally
The Rallye Monte Carlo, which is more popularly known as Monte Carlo Rally, was first held in 1911. What sets it apart from the many races held worldwide is the unpredictable conditions such as snow, ice, wet or dry tarmac at the starting point. Running from Sospel to La Bollene-Vesubie, the road has some exciting hairpin turns which add to the thrill when seeing the cars racing from one point to the other. It stretches 31 kilometers and an ice-covered mountain pass road also makes up a part of the stage.
- Pikes Peak Hill Club
One of the most popular hill climbs, the Pikes Peak Hill Club is the second oldest car race that was first held in 1916. Starting at 9,390 feet, it runs 12.42 miles and comes to an end at 14,115 feet, making it an interesting hilltop race reaching the Pikes Peak of the mountain. It has a whopping 156 turns. It tests the skills of the racers as the height gradually brings down muscle strength and reflexes while the cars slow down due to a 30% cut in the engine power as they approach the summit.
- Bathurst 1000
The Bathurst 1000 was first held in 1960 and it is well-known for the V8 supercar race. It is held every year on the Mount Panorama circuit and covers 1000 kilometers. The cars race extremely close to each other with violent turns, making it a nail-biting race. If you’re lucky to be in Australia around the time the Bathurst 1000 event happens, don’t miss your chance to witness the wild and epic V8 supercar racing.
- Monaco Grand Prix
If you’re a Formula 1 fan, the Monaco Grand Prix would definitely ring a bell. With different celebrities attending the event, you’ll spot the top racers of the world competing on the narrow, tight circuits with incredible twists and changes in elevation.
- Daytona 500
The Daytona 500 is the Great American Race held by NASCAR at the start of the season. It is one of the most awaited car-racing events in North America with championship points that are regarded just as rewarding as any popular Sprint Cup race.
While these are some of the most prestigious races, not far behind them are 24 Hours of Le Mans, Indianapolis 500, Dakar Rally among a few others. It is quite challenging to rank them as each event has its own appeal. If fast cars excite you, these car races make for grand events that you can plan your trip around when you go for a vacation.