Were the Sonoma Raceway not a highlight in its own right, it would be sure to win over any doubters thanks to its extraordinary location. The circuit is situated just 30 minutes north of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge, right on the doorstep of the Sonoma wine-growing region.

The circuit has enjoyed a long tradition since it was built in 1968. The facility underwent a 60 million US dollar facelift in 2001. This included new grandstands, new garages, and new asphalt. The circuit also boasts a good infrastructure, with over 70 resident motorsport companies, from workshops to racing teams.