The Heartbeat of American Motorsports

North Carolina’s motorsports legacy is deeply rooted in its colorful past—one that began long before the roar of engines filled modern speedways. During America’s Prohibition Era, moonshine runners in the hills of North Carolina modified their cars to outrun federal agents on twisting backroads, developing the driving skill, mechanical ingenuity, and competitive spirit that would lead to the creation of stock car racing. What began as a test of nerve and horsepower among drivers evolved into races on dirt tracks across the state, laying the foundation for what would become one of America’s most beloved sports.

From those bootleg beginnings, North Carolina became the heart of America’s motorsports industry. In June of 1949, NASCAR held its first “Strictly Stock” race at the Charlotte Fairgrounds Speedway, giving birth to what is now known as the NASCAR Cup Series. Today, the state is home to more than 80% of NASCAR teams, as well as an expansive network of race shops, parts manufacturers, engineers, suppliers, support services, and agencies that fuel the sport’s innovation and economic impact.

North Carolina also serves as headquarters for major sanctioning bodies such as the World Racing Group (home of the World of Outlaws), CARS Tour, U.S. Legend Cars International, INEX Series, All-Harley Drag Racing Association, as well as two regional chapters of the Sports Car Club of America, which together represent the broad spectrum of motorsports competition, from grassroots racing to national touring series.