There’s something special about Road America. Tucked away in the heart of Wisconsin, it’s the kind of track that makes racing fans smile when they hear its name. The long straights, fast corners, and old-school charm have made it a fan favourite for decades. Lately, though, things have felt quiet, at least for NASCAR.
If you’ve been wondering what’s happening between NASCAR and Road America, you’re not alone.
“We’re Not Waiting Around,” Says Mike Kertscher
In a recent interview with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Dave Kallmann, Road America President Mike Kertscher discussed NASCAR’s absence from the track in 2025 openly and without sugarcoating it.
“There’s nothing to report,” Kertscher said honestly. “There’s nothing to hide either. If it works for them, it works for them. And we’re here. We’re also not waiting around. We’re moving forward.”
It’ll be the first time since 1992 that none of NASCAR’s three national series will race at Road America. That’s a tough pill to swallow for longtime fans, especially after getting used to seeing the Xfinity Series every year from 2010 to 2023, and even two Cup Series races in 2021 and 2022.
But Kertscher made it clear — the track isn’t putting all its eggs in the NASCAR basket. Road America has a full schedule. The track stays busy, from IndyCar to IMSA, vintage races, and motorcycle events. Even on the morning of the interview, about 70 cars were lapping the track. It’s not a ghost town — far from it.
However, if NASCAR wishes to return to this iconic track, the door isn’t closed. “We’d love to see NASCAR come back,” Kertscher said. “It looks good here. It’s a nice product. Our success certainly isn’t defined by having it here, but we’d love to see it come back.”
He further added, “I lobby all the time. But ultimately, it’s their choice, it’s their series. They’ve got a lot of choices. A lot of people vie for a NASCAR date, many of which have never had one, and we were blessed with so many great years and two wonderful Cup races.”
What’s Next for Road America and NASCAR?
Right now, it’s hard to say. NASCAR’s schedule is packed with five road course races, one street course, and all the ovals. Adding another isn’t as easy as it sounds. And with other tracks like the Milwaukee Mile also losing their Truck Series date for 2025, it’s clear that nothing is set in stone anymore.
That said, Road America has always stood out. Its 4-mile layout and scenic location give it a personality unlike any other. It’s the place that feels like summer, like tradition, and real racing.
So, will NASCAR come back someday? Maybe. But until then, the folks at Road America aren’t sitting still. They’ve got a season to run, fans to entertain, and engines to fire up. And if NASCAR ever decides to return to Elkhart Lake, they’ll be ready.