Editing Phoenix Raceway (section)

== Track history ==

=== Planning and construction ===
[[File:J. C. Agajanian 1953 (cropped).jpg|alt=refer to caption|thumb|230x230px|Motorsports promoter [[J. C. Agajanian]] (pictured in 1953) convinced track founder Richard Hogue to build an oval on Phoenix Raceway's complex; Hogue's initial plans for the facility only included a road course.|left]]
On July 10, 1963, ''[[The Arizona Republic]]''{{'s}} Frank Gianelli reported that a group formed by businessman Richard Hogue acquired a {{Convert|320|acre|ha|adj=on}} plot of land originally used to grow cotton in [[Sierra Estrella|Estrella Mountains]].<ref name=":1324492" /><ref name=":132445">{{Cite news |date=March 16, 1964 |title=New International Raceway Cotton Field 6 Months Ago |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-international-r/157851454/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=27 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> With the purchase, the group made plans to build a US$500,000 (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=500000|start_year=1963|r=0|fmt=c}}) motorsports complex including a {{Convert|1|mi|km|adj=on}} oval, a {{Convert|2.5|mi|km|adj=on}} road course, and a [[dragstrip]] under the name of Phoenix International Raceway (PIR).<ref name=":1324492">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=July 10, 1963 |title=New Raceway Due |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-raceway-due/157821823/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=29 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Initially, Hogue only originally considered building the road course, but was convinced to add an oval to the facility by racing promoter [[J. C. Agajanian]].<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Triplett |first=Kevin |date=October 7, 2016 |title=The construction of Phoenix International Raceway |url=http://triplettracehistory.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-constructionof-phoenix.html |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=Kevin Triplett's Racing History |language=en}}</ref> The plan immediately faced opposition from the competing [[Arizona State Fairgrounds]], who wished to pave their track in order to continue hosting [[United States Auto Club]] (USAC) races despite PIR officials wanting to collaborate with Fairgrounds officials.<ref name=":13244922">{{Cite news |date=July 16, 1963 |title=Race Interests Fail to Agree |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-race-interests-fail/157823122/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=27 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> However, the Fairgrounds' paving plan was vetoed unanimously by the Arizona Fair Commission on August 26. On the same day, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors passed a permit to begin PIR construction, in the process effectively causing the Fair's shutdown.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":13244923">{{Cite news |date=August 27, 1963 |title=Commission Vetoes Paving Fairground Oval |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-commission-vetoes-p/157827132/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=25 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>  

Groundbreaking took place on September 19, with Hogue stating at a groundbreaking interview that "we'll be racing by late November or early December".<ref name=":13244924">{{Cite news |date=September 13, 1963 |title=Race Track To Get Start |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-race-track-to-get-s/157827381/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=57 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":13244925">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=September 20, 1963 |title=Track Shows Early Speed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-track-shows-early-s/157827420/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=37 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In November, Hogue announced the first events for the track, with [[Sports Car Club of America]] (SCCA) and [[NASCAR Cup Series|NASCAR Grand National Series]] events being announced for December and January 1964, respectively.<ref name=":13244">{{Cite news |last=Rowe |first=Jack |date=November 16, 1963 |title=Sports Car Corner |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/tucson-daily-citizen-sports-car-corner/157851385/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |pages=7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":132442">{{Cite news |date=November 9, 1963 |title=150-Miler Will Open Race Plant |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-150-miler-will-open/157827157/ |access-date=October 26, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=55 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> However, the track's opening was pushed back to January 4 due to construction delays.<ref name=":132443">{{Cite news |last=Rowe |first=Jack |date=November 23, 1963 |title=Sports Car Corner |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/tucson-citizen-sports-car-corner/157878868/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |pages=43 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> By the end of the year, with paving complete, the facility was approved for SCCA, USAC, and [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA) events.<ref name=":132444">{{Cite news |last=Bird |first=Tracy |date=December 29, 1963 |title=Phoenix Raceway To Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-phoenix-raceway-to-op/157940114/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=C5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> At the end of the facility's construction, the entire complex cost approximately US$1 million (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=1000000|start_year=1964|r=0|fmt=c}}) to build.<ref name=":1324413">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=March 21, 1964 |title=PIR Builder Man of Vision |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-builder-man-of/158170382/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=57 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324415">{{Cite news |last=Dean |first=Paul |date=April 16, 1964 |title=Hot Ride on Road Course |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-hot-ride-on-road-co/158169473/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=47 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

=== Hogue years ===
[[File:AJ Foyt at the Indy 500 (1996).jpg|alt=refer to caption|thumb|270x270px|[[A. J. Foyt]] (pictured in 1996) won the first race at Phoenix Raceway's oval track in 1964.]]
PIR opened as scheduled, running informal [[Sports Car Club of America|SCCA]] events in January 1964.<ref name=":132447">{{Cite news |date=January 5, 1964 |title=New Raceway Baptized |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-raceway-baptize/157944173/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":132446">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=January 7, 1964 |title=Sports Feud Full of Hate |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-sports-feud-full-of/157940164/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=28 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> A month later, the first formal events at the facility were held, with Jack Hinkle winning the first highlight race at PIR's road course.<ref name=":132449">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=February 16, 1964 |title=Sports Racing Worth Watching |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-sports-racing-worth/157851437/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":132448">{{Cite news |last=Pierson |first=Gerry |date=February 17, 1964 |title=Jack Hinkle Wins PIR Race Honors |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-jack-hinkle-wins-pi/157944767/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=24 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> PIR received mixed initial reception; although its amenities were praised, some spectators complained about a hidden 50-cent (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=0.50|start_year=1964|r=0}}) grandstand fee alongside visibility problems caused by light poles.<ref name=":1324410">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=February 21, 1964 |title=Gripes Made, More Coming |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-gripes-made-more-c/157945277/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=39 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> PIR's drag strip held its first events on March 1.<ref name=":1324411">{{Cite news |last=Pierson |first=Gerry |date=March 2, 1964 |title=PIR Prizes Divided; Death Mars Racing |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-prizes-divided/157952153/ |access-date=October 27, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=28 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The oval held its first race 21 days later, with [[A. J. Foyt]] winning a USAC event.<ref name=":1324414">{{Cite news |date=March 8, 1964 |title=Green Monster Featured at Bee Line |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-green-monster-featu/158190508/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=2C |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324412">{{Cite news |last=Pierson |first=Gerry |date=March 23, 1964 |title=Foyt Powers to Easy Victory in PIR 100 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-foyt-powers-to-easy/158169322/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=27 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In April, alongside obtaining a sanction from the [[Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile]] (FIA),<ref name=":1324415" /> PIR ran its first FIA-sanctioned event, with [[Dave MacDonald]] winning a {{Convert|155|mi|km|adj=on}} event.<ref name=":1324416">{{Cite news |last=Pierson |first=Gerry |date=April 19, 1964 |title=MacDonald, Cobra Capture FIA Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-macdonald-cobra-ca/158192236/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=30 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

Initially, PIR struggled with attendance, causing the facility to cancel international events in 1964 due to cost issues.<ref name=":1324417">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=June 16, 1964 |title=Hogue Retains Faith in PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-hogue-retains-faith/158190978/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=30 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324418">{{Cite news |last=Rowe |first=Jack |date=September 5, 1964 |title=PIR International Cancelled |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/tucson-citizen-pir-international-cancell/158191376/ |access-date=October 30, 2024 |work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |pages=6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In July, Harry Redkey and Bob Huff, racing promoters of the [[Manzanita Speedway]] and [[Tucson Speedway]], respectively, took over operational duties of PIR,<ref name=":1324420">{{Cite news |date=July 3, 1964 |title=Redkey Takes PIR Control |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-redkey-takes-pir-co/158191233/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=43 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324419">{{Cite news |date=July 9, 1964 |title=Huff Adds Raceway To Auto Duties |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/tucson-daily-citizen-huff-adds-raceway-t/158191278/ |access-date=October 31, 2024 |work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |pages=44 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> with Huff stating hopes of implementing "a series of major improvements" and a seating expansion to 13,500 to the facility.<ref name=":1324419" /> By November, renovations to the facility's grandstand and walls were made. However, the facility still faced heavy traffic issues in [[Bobby Ball Memorial]] event that took place in the same month,<ref name=":1324421">{{Cite news |last=Gianelli |first=Frank |date=November 24, 1964 |title=Traffic Jam Monumental |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-traffic-jam-monumen/158192440/ |access-date=November 1, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=29 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> partially causing the cancellation of a USAC stock car race in early 1965.<ref name=":1324422">{{Cite news |date=December 23, 1964 |title=Local Race Postponed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-local-race-postpone/158220432/ |access-date=November 1, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=36 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324423">{{Cite news |last=Crawford |first=Bob |date=January 13, 1965 |title=Power Struggle Kills Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/tucson-daily-citizen-power-struggle-kill/158220428/ |access-date=November 1, 2024 |work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |pages=19 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Traffic improvements to PIR were completed in March 1965 alongside the widening of the track's surface in the turns.<ref name=":1324424">{{Cite news |last=Smith |first=DeWayne |date=March 24, 1965 |title=New Parking Plan To Avoid Race Jam |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/phoenix-gazette-new-parking-plan-to-avoi/158221677/ |access-date=November 1, 2024 |work=[[Phoenix Gazette]] |pages=59 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In June, a US$10,000 renovation to PIR's dragstrip that aimed to install increased lighting started.<ref name=":1324425">{{Cite news |last=Allison |first=Bob |date=June 22, 1965 |title=Phony Ring Division Due For Elimination? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/phoenix-gazette-phony-ring-division-due/158225254/ |access-date=November 1, 2024 |work=[[Phoenix Gazette]] |pages=28 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> By the end of 1965, Hogue stated in a response to a PIR critic in a [[letter to the editor]] that PIR invested over US$100,000 in renovations, including a refurbished main grandstand and the addition of 2,000 seats.<ref name=":1324430">{{Cite news |last=Summers |first=Walt |date=November 28, 1965 |title=Auto Race Track Conditions Described As 'Primitive' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-auto-race-track-con/158309130/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324431">{{Cite news |last=Hogue |first=Richard P. |date=December 5, 1965 |title=PIR Critic No Race Authority |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-critic-no-race/158309152/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>    

PIR experienced numerous crashes resulting in serious injury or death in its early years. In its first ever dragstrip event on March 1, PIR experienced its first fatality when drag racer Robert Snyders crashed during a qualifying run on the drag strip.<ref name=":1324411" /> In early December, [[Bobby Marshman]] succumbed to second and third-degree burns suffered during a tire testing crash on November 27.<ref name=":1324428">{{Cite news |date=November 28, 1964 |title=Race Vet Marshman Burned in PIR Crash |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-race-vet-marshman-b/158311540/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324429">{{Cite news |date=December 4, 1964 |title=Marshman Loses Battle for Life |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-marshman-loses-batt/158311653/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=1D |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In August 1965, the dragstrip oversaw its second fatality when 17-year-old Phil Miner lost control of his car and crashed at approximately {{Convert|160|mph|km/h}}.<ref name=":1324426">{{Cite news |date=August 23, 1965 |title=PIR Crash Kills Tucson Drag Racer |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-crash-kills-tuc/158282380/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324427">{{Cite news |last=Pierson |first=Gerry |date=August 24, 1965 |title=Miner Will Never Tell His Story |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-miner-will-never-te/158226189/ |access-date=November 2, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=28 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In February 1967, 13-year-old Maurice Gallegos suffered major head injuries after hitting a truck during a go-kart race;<ref name=":1324433">{{Cite news |date=February 6, 1967 |title=Youth Hurt In Kart Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-youth-hurt-in-kart/158312749/ |access-date=November 3, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=26 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Gallegos survived the incident and later sued PIR for US$1,687,624 (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=1687624|start_year=1967|r=0|fmt=c}}) for "inadequate and ineffectual protection" and a lack of "prompt and adequate assistance after the accident".<ref name=":1324432">{{Cite news |date=May 27, 1967 |title=Racer, 13, Files $1 Million Suit |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-racer-13-files-1-m/158312767/ |access-date=November 3, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=2A |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> On February 27, 1972, [[United States Air Force]] captain Bruce Helfert died in a sports car crash on the facility's road course.<ref name=":1324445">{{Cite news |date=February 28, 1972 |title=Air Force captain killed in raceway auto accident |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-air-force-captain-k/160818564/ |access-date=December 12, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=28 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

==== Nancy Hogue era ====
Sometime between 1965 and 1967, Richard Hogue and his wife, Nancy, divorced.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Triplett |first=Kevin |date=October 11, 2016 |title=Early racing at Phoenix International Raceway |url=http://triplettracehistory.blogspot.com/2016/10/early-racing-at-phoenix-international.html |access-date=November 3, 2024 |website=Kevin Triplett's Racing History |language=en}}</ref> By February 3, 1967, Nancy was described in ''The Arizona Republic'' as the sole owner of PIR.<ref name=":1324434">{{Cite news |date=February 3, 1967 |title=Agajanian Joins PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-agajanian-joins-pir/158374090/ |access-date=November 3, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=35 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> On the 15th, racing promoter [[J. C. Agajanian]] took over Redkey and Huff as the promotional director of PIR.<ref name=":1324435">{{Cite news |last=Wood |first=Dennis |date=February 16, 1967 |title=J. C. Agajanian Takes Over As PIR Promotion Manager |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-j-c-agajanian-tak/158312422/ |access-date=November 3, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=55 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Two days later, Nancy filed an [[Injunction|injunction order]] against Redkey and Huff for "fail[ing] to return... the corporate's properties, papers and records." She also revealed that she fired the duo as they spent "extravagant amounts of money for travel, hotels, entertainment, telephone calls, salaries, etc."<ref name=":1324436">{{Cite news |last=Wood |first=Dennis |date=February 18, 1967 |title=Injunction Order Filed in PIR Case |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-injunction-order-fi/158312555/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=53 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In response, the duo sued Hogue for US$200,000 (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=USD|value=200000|start_year=1967|r=0|fmt=c}}) on March 2 for multiple claims, including a breach of contract, claims of Nancy deceiving the duo, and Nancy refusing to give any stock to the duo despite an agreement.<ref name=":1324437">{{Cite news |last=Wood |first=Dennis |date=March 3, 1967 |title=PIR Owner Is Sued |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-owner-is-sued/158312611/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=75 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

By October 1967, the ''[[Arizona Daily Star]]'' claimed that grandstand seating had expanded to 25,000.<ref name=":1324438">{{Cite news |date=October 27, 1967 |title=J. C. Agajanian Brings USAC Race To Phoenix |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-j-c-agajanian-bring/158318616/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=2D |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> On January 23, 1968, PIR held its first major [[Stock car racing|stock car]] events, with [[Don White (racing driver)|Don White]] winning a USAC event.<ref name=":1324439">{{Cite news |date=November 20, 1967 |title=USAC Sanctions Stock Car Race at PIR in Winter |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-republic-usac-sanctions-stock-ca/158432886/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=49 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324440">{{Cite news |last=Wood |first=Dennis |date=January 29, 1968 |title=Don White Stock Car Victor at PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-republic-don-white-stock-car-vic/158432221/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=26 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In March, Agajanian confirmed discussions about removing PIR's backstretch dogleg from its oval track, stating that the corner was "dangerous as hell".<ref name=":1324442">{{Cite news |last=Wood |first=Dennis |date=March 24, 1968 |title=Phoenix Raceway Due Facelifting |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-phoenix-raceway-due/158345098/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=1E, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-phoenix-raceway-due/158345113/ 11E] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Three months later, the decision was confirmed by Jerry Raskin, PIR's public relations official, with the backstretch becoming a straight line.<ref name=":1324441">{{Cite news |date=June 22, 1968 |title='Foyt's Corner' Demise Near |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-foyts-corner-dem/158371377/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=59 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Reportedly, the reconfiguration was complete by September;<ref name=":1324443">{{Cite news |date=September 19, 1968 |title=PIR Dogleg Is Removed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-dogleg-is-remov/158372155/ |access-date=November 4, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=1D |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> however, the claim that the dogleg was ever removed has been disputed by racing historian Kevin Triplett, who did not find any evidence that the reconfiguration ever happened.<ref name=":0" /> In October 1969, construction of a two-year, US$100,000 renovation project focusing on additional seating and track adjustments was completed.<ref name=":1324444">{{Cite news |date=October 19, 1969 |title=Improvements made at PIR; Bobby Ball tickets on sale |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-republic-improvements-made-at-pi/158664626/ |access-date=November 9, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D15 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> A year later, Phoenix hotel businessman Charlie Alexander signed a three-year lease from Nancy to become the racing director of PIR.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Triplett |first=Kevin |date=October 17, 2016 |title=The history of Phoenix International Raceway continues |url=http://triplettracehistory.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-history-of-phoenix-international.html |access-date=12 December 2024 |website=Kevin Triplett's Racing History |language=en}}</ref> In 1972, in response to criticism from the previous year of a dangerous and slippery track surface, track officials started putting down a traction compound to combat the issue; the fix was received well from driver [[Bobby Unser]].<ref name=":1324447">{{Cite news |last=Erickson |first=P. J. |date=October 26, 1971 |title=A. J., The Long-Hair |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/tucson-citizen-a-j-the-long-hair/160818413/ |access-date=December 12, 2024 |work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |pages=31 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324446">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=March 12, 1972 |title=Bobby Unser getting top speed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-bobby-unser-getting/160818679/ |access-date=December 12, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=8E |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

=== Short-lived FasTrack rebrand ===
{{See also|Malcolm Bricklin|Bricklin SV-1}}
[[File:Malcolm Bricklin at the Peninsula.jpg|alt=refer to caption|thumb|270x270px|[[Malcolm Bricklin]] (pictured in 2007) and his company, General Vehicle, purchased the facility in 1973. The company's ownership was short-lived due to financial troubles with General Vehicle.]]
On December 6, 1972, the ''Arizona Republic'' reported that Nancy Hogue sold PIR to [[Newport Beach, California]], businessman Paul O'Shea.<ref name=":1324448">{{Cite news |date=December 6, 1972 |title=Phoenix track sold to O'Shea |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-phoenix-track-sold/160819181/ |access-date=December 12, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=F1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> However, nine days later, the ''Republic'' retracted their claim, stating that the facility was instead bought by the [[Malcolm Bricklin]]-owned General Vehicle Inc., with O'Shea assisting with the company's purchase; it was also announced that Alexander was ousted from his lease on the facility.<ref name=":1324449">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=December 15, 1972 |title=New PIR owners to announce long range plans next month |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-pir-owners-to-a/160819215/ |access-date=December 12, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=100 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In a press conference held on January 23, 1973, newly appointed track president Anthony Kopp announced the track's rebranding to "FasTrack International Speedway" as part of Bricklin's FasTrack brand, a subsidiary under General Vehicle.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":1324450">{{Cite news |last=Boatner |first=Verne |date=January 24, 1973 |title=New name, facelift scheduled for PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-name-facelift/160819271/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Kopp also announced plans for US$30,000 worth of renovations, including the expansion of permanent seating capacity to 16,000, the construction of a new pit road, and other miscellaneous amenity improvements.<ref name=":1324450" /> Two.months later, the facility experienced its fifth fatality when driver Bob Criss died in a practice crash for a USAC event.<ref name=":1324451">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=March 13, 1973 |title=Race driver dies in crash at speedway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-race-driver-dies-in/160821561/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=23, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-race-driver-dies-in/160821568/ 24] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

==== General Vehicle and Bricklin SV-1 troubles ====
Soon after General Vehicle's purchase, the company faced a series of heavy financial issues related to the production of the [[Bricklin SV-1]] vehicle that affected the financial situation of the facility.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Triplett |first=Kevin |date=October 25, 2016 |title=The history of Phoenix International Raceway from 1973 to today |url=http://triplettracehistory.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-history-of-phoenix-international_25.html |access-date=12 December 2024 |website=Kevin Triplett's Racing History |language=en}}</ref> In June 1973, Bricklin was able to secure a CA$2.88 million loan alongside the purchase of a 51% share in Bricklin Canada from the [[government of New Brunswick]] to build a CA$9 million plant in [[Saint John, New Brunswick|Saint John]] to spur production of "the Bricklin", which was advertised by Bricklin as "the first mass-produced safety vehicle in the world".<ref name=":1324452">{{Cite news |last=Fogan |first=John |date=June 22, 1973 |title=N. B. Gets Auto Assembly Plant |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-n-b-gets-auto-assemb/160823210/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324453">{{Cite news |last=Prince |first=Doug |date=July 13, 1973 |title=Mr. Bricklin And His New Automobile |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-mr-bricklin-and-his-n/160823403/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=10 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The car's release faced numerous delays; start of production was delayed to January 1974 from its original start of December 1973 due to "slow delivery" on parts and building equipment.<ref name=":1324454">{{Cite news |date=December 12, 1973 |title=First 'Bricklins' Out In January? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/saint-john-times-globe-first-bricklins/160847348/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Saint John Times Globe]] |pages=33 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The car's official reveal was further delayed from April<ref name=":1324456">{{Cite news |last=Pedersen |first=Mark |date=July 29, 1985 |title=First Bricklins Expected To Roll To Eastern U.S. Markets This Spring |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-transcript-first-bricklins-exp/160848202/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Times & Transcript|The Moncton Times]] |pages=2 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[The Canadian Post]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> to late June; by this point, criticism from members of the [[Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick]] was building on the company for a lack of transparency alongside concerns over the company's finances.<ref name=":1324455">{{Cite news |last=Worth |first=Roger |date=May 4, 1974 |title=N.B. dices it with $6,000 car |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post-nb-dices-it-with-6000/160848610/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Financial Post]] |pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post-nb-dices-it-with-6000/160848623/ 8] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324458">{{Cite news |last=Chambers |first=Allan |date=May 16, 1974 |title=Legislature Told Bricklin Has No Fixed Assets |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-gleaner-legislature-told-bricklin/160851247/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[The Daily Gleaner]] |pages=17 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324457">{{Cite news |last=Worth |first=Roger |date=May 25, 1974 |title=Bricklin drifts toward credibility gap |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post-bricklin-drifts-toward-cre/160849382/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Financial Post]] |pages=3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Despite concerns, the New Brunswick government increased its investment to CA$5 million by August.<ref name=":1324459">{{Cite news |last=Worth |first=Roger |date=August 3, 1974 |title=No risk of speeding tickets as Bricklins creep off the line |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post-no-risk-of-speeding-ticket/160858836/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Financial Post]] |pages=3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>  

Soon after the first Bricklin SV-1 was produced on August 6,<ref name=":1324460">{{Cite news |date=August 7, 1974 |title=First Bricklin Rolls Off Assembly Line |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-bricklin-resignations/160866298/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=24 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> two Bricklin Canada plant managers resigned, dealing a major setback to the company.<ref name=":1324461">{{Cite news |last=Camp |first=Dave |date=August 20, 1974 |title=Bricklin Resignations 'Ordinary,' President Says |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-bricklin-resignations/160866298/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=18 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324462">{{Cite news |last=Worth |first=Roger |date=August 24, 1974 |title=Resignations setback for Bricklin sports car |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post-resignations-setback-for-b/160866386/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Financial Post]] |pages=4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In November, Bricklin stated in an interview that the company was pleading to the New Brunswick government for an additional CA$6–8 million,<ref name=":1324463">{{Cite news |date=November 20, 1974 |title=More Cash? N.B. To 'Look Very Carefully' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-more-cash-nb-to-lo/160867221/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=20 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> with the ''[[Windsor Star]]'' indicating that the company was in heavy financial trouble due to a lack of production and sales.<ref name=":1324464">{{Cite news |last=Little |first=Bruce |date=November 25, 1974 |title=Bricklin facing financial problems |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-windsor-star-bricklin-facing-financi/160867533/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Windsor Star]] |pages=32 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Southam Inc.]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> On December 2, [[Premier of New Brunswick|New Brunswick Premier]] [[Richard Hatfield]] announced the province's investment increased to a total CA$7.5 million alongside acquiring 67% of Bricklin Canada;<ref name=":1324465">{{Cite news |last=Chisholm |first=Ken |date=December 2, 1974 |title=N. B. Share Up To $7.5 Million – And Malcolm Wants More |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-n-b-share-up-to-75/160877746/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-n-b-share-up-to-75/160877757/ 9] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> the increased investment led to further skepticism from the [[Official Opposition (Canada)|New Brunswick opposition]] on the project's viability, which had been facing increasing production costs.<ref name=":1324466">{{Cite news |last=Pedersen |first=Mark |date=December 5, 1974 |title=Turnbull Again Presses For Feasibility Study |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-turnbull-again-presses/160878319/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-turnbull-again-presses/160878326/ 9] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[The Canadian Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324467">{{Cite news |last=Teasdale |first=Philip |date=December 21, 1974 |title=The Bricklin: Will they call it Hatfield's folly? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-toronto-star-the-bricklin-will-they/160878292/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Toronto Star]] |pages=C7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> On the 26th, Bricklin was ordered by a [[Philadelphia]] federal court to pay US$2.3 million in a [[breach of contract]] lawsuit filed by a former employee of Bricklin,<ref name=":1324468">{{Cite news |last=Childs |first=Gerald |date=December 28, 1974 |title=More $-Millions Available In 1975? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-more-millions-availa/160878899/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-more-millions-availa/160878907/ 2] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> leading to further concerns over viability.<ref name=":1324469">{{Cite news |date=January 4, 1975 |title=Will Suit Affect Bricklin Canada? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-will-suit-affect-brick/160879242/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=24 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> On January 29, 1975, another CA$7.5 million loan was given by New Brunswick, with both Hatfield and Bricklin stating that the loan was the last expected assistance from the New Brunswick government.<ref name=":1324470">{{Cite news |date=January 30, 1975 |title=Premier Sees No More Loans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-premier-sees-no-more-l/160879412/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=20 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324471">{{Cite news |date=February 3, 1975 |title=He Sees No More N.B. Cash |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-he-sees-no-more-nb-c/160879739/ |access-date=December 13, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=20 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

In April, after increasing pressure from Liberal politicians for documents on Bricklin Canada's finances,<ref name=":1324473">{{Cite news |last=Merchant |first=E. B. |date=March 13, 1975 |title=Opposition Wants More On Bricklin |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-opposition-wants-more/160907518/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-opposition-wants-more/160907536/ 14] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324474">{{Cite news |last=DeMerchant |first=E. B. |date=March 27, 1975 |title=Opposition Motion Defeated |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-opposition-motion-defe/160907791/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=3, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-opposition-motion-defe/160907801/ 7] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Bricklin voluntarily provided documents to the Opposition under the condition that the information be kept [[in confidence]].<ref name=":1324472">{{Cite news |last=Stewart |first=Edison |date=April 22, 1975 |title=Bricklin Wants 'Hatchet Buried' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-bricklin-wants-hatche/160907824/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=2, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-bricklin-wants-hatche/160907847/ 9] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Four months later, FasTrack International Speedway director Russ Kurtz stated in the ''[[Arizona Daily Star]]'' that the facility had been on sale "for a number of months"; however, he also stated that he did not see the track being sold in the near future.<ref name=":1324475">{{Cite news |last=Reynard |first=Calvin |date=August 10, 1975 |title=FasTrack For Sale, But... |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-fastrack-for-sale-bu/160822510/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=F7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> After another investment of CA$1.2 million from the New Brunswick government despite previous statements,<ref name=":1324476">{{Cite news |date=September 16, 1975 |title=$1.2-Million More For Bricklin |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/saint-john-times-globe-12-million-more/160933725/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Saint John Times Globe]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> on September 22, Premier Hatfield stated that Bricklin Canada would not receive anymore funding until the completion of a viability review of the company.<ref name=":1324477">{{Cite news |date=September 23, 1975 |title=No More N.B. Funds As Bricklin Reviewed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-no-more-nb-funds-as/160933835/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-no-more-nb-funds-as/160933842/ 15] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Three days later, Bricklin Canada entered into [[receivership]], with Liberal politician [[John W. Turnbull]] stating that "the company for all intents and purposes is bankrupt".<ref name=":1324478">{{Cite news |last=Peters |first=Bruce |date=September 26, 1975 |title=Bricklin Into Receivership |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-bricklin-into-receiver/160933824/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> General Vehicle filed for [[Reorganization bankruptcy|reorganization]] on October 1,<ref name=":1324479">{{Cite news |date=October 1, 1975 |title=Parent Bricklin Firm Files For Reorganization |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/saint-john-times-globe-parent-bricklin-f/160934595/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Saint John Times Globe]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> leaving FasTrack in a state of "limbo".<ref name=":1324480">{{Cite news |last=Reynard |first=Calvin |date=October 12, 1975 |title=USAC At FasTrack |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-usac-at-fastrack/160822883/ |access-date=December 14, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=F4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In December, Bricklin resigned from General Vehicle,<ref name=":1324482">{{Cite news |date=December 17, 1975 |title=Bricklin resigns from auto firm |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-bricklin-resigns-fr/160963583/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=E9 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> and the company and its subsidiaries was declared bankrupt by federal bankruptcy judge Edward Davis on January 12, 1976, with Bricklin in a reported US$34.6 million in debt. Davis also ruled to let FasTrack International Raceway to continue hosting races to pay off creditors.<ref name=":1324481">{{Cite news |date=January 13, 1976 |title=Bricklin Firms Bankrupt |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/telegraph-journal-bricklin-firms-bankrup/160936245/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[Telegraph-Journal]] |pages=3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

=== Fletcher and Wood years ===
{{See also|Robert L. Fletcher}}By early May 1976, numerous offers to purchase the facility were made, including an offer from an unspecified buyer for $200,000 and another $375,000 offer from a group led by Bill Moore. However, all were either withdrawn by prospective buyers or rejected by the court.<ref name=":1324483">{{Cite news |date=May 5, 1976 |title=3 withdraw offer to buy raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-republic-3-withdraw-offer-to-buy/160935086/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> After rejecting another offer of $280,000, Davis gave control of the facility to [[Lien|lienholders]] Nancy Hogue and [[First Pennsylvania Bank]],<ref name=":1324484">{{Cite news |date=May 12, 1976 |title=Racetrack released to claimants |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-racetrack-released/160935092/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=B5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> leaving an uncertain future for the facility despite a potential offer from J. C. Agajanian.<ref name=":1324485">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=July 31, 1976 |title=FasTrack future remains uncertain |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-fastrack-future-rem/160963908/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D9 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> However, on August 18, the ''Republic'' reported that a group led by [[Robert L. Fletcher|Bob Fletcher]], Tom Taber, and Bill Hardy bought the facility at an undisclosed price;<ref name=":1324486">{{Cite news |date=August 18, 1976 |title=FasTrack facility gets new owners, new title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-fastrack-facility-g/160965431/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> it was later revealed to be "in the neighborhood of $400,000" according to Taber.<ref name=":1324487">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=August 27, 1976 |title=Doctors seek cure for ailing PIR facility |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-doctors-seek-cure-f/160967675/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-doctors-seek-cure-f/160967693/ D8] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> With the purchase, the track's name was reverted to "Phoenix International Raceway",<ref>{{cite news |last=Reynard |first=Calvin |date=August 29, 1976 |title=FasTrack Dead, Long Live PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-fastrack-dead-long-l/62461144/ |access-date=November 2, 2020 |newspaper=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=B8 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> with the group promising renovations to existing grandstands, garages, and media centers<ref name=":1324487" /> alongside a wider variety of events.<ref name=":1324489">{{Cite news |last=Reynard |first=Calvin |date=September 19, 1976 |title=PIR Plans Bigger Card |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-pir-plans-bigger-card/160968114/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=D7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1977, the track's surface was repaved and completed by October of that year.<ref name=":1324490">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=July 15, 1977 |title=Season tickets top PIR activity |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-season-tickets-top/160991523/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":1324491">{{Cite news |last=Garrett |first=Mike |date=October 6, 1977 |title=Johncock, Unser Approve |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-johncock-unser-app/160991532/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=F3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The following year, the facility oversaw its sixth fatality, with driver Otis D. Hurley dying in a sports car crash during a practice session on the facility's road course.<ref name=":13244112">{{Cite news |date=September 11, 1978 |title=PIR crash kills driver |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-crash-kills-dri/161083432/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

In 1980, under threats from the track's owners to permanently shut down PIR due to owner disputes,<ref name=":13244125">{{Cite news |last=Morales |first=Javier |date=October 22, 1998 |title=Zoomtown |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-zoomtown-part-1/161115245/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-zoomtown-part-2/161115254/ 7D] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> PIR general manager Dennis Wood and contractor Bill Krug signed a three-year lease to run the facility.<ref name=":1324493">{{Cite news |date=July 15, 1980 |title=2 men sign lease to run PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-2-men-sign-lease-to/160993422/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C8 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In a 1998 interview, Wood admitted he had little income at the time and had only obtained the lease because "my only thought at the time was we can't shut PIR down".<ref name=":13244125" /> A year later, Wood alongside California businessman [[Warner W. Hodgdon]] bought the facility from Fletcher within the "seven-figure" price range.<ref name=":1324494">{{Cite news |last=Jayroe |first=Walt |date=October 28, 1981 |title=Californian, track GM buy PIR for '7 figures' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-californian-track/160993585/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=F2 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Hodgdon's ownership was short-lived; in January 1983, Wood bought Hodgdon's 75% share of ownership, stating that the two had "philosophical differences" over how to run the facility.<ref name=":1324495">{{Cite news |last=Nightengale |first=Bob |date=January 15, 1983 |title=PIR sold to Wood |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-sold-to-wood/160997188/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=G6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Wood later added Fletcher back as a partner for $1 as a sign of gratitude for Fletcher's "friendship and kindness toward me over the years".<ref name=":13244126">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=March 29, 2002 |title=Jobe built PIR into top track after Wood gave it life |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-jobe-built-pir-into/161114061/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C13 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1985, after an IndyCar race was cancelled due to concerns of a deteriorating track surface with a new IndyCar model,<ref name=":1324496">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=March 14, 1985 |title=New car designs, PIR conditions force cancellation of race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-car-designs-pi/161024728/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=E6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> track officials approved a repave of the oval track.<ref name=":1324497">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=August 7, 1985 |title=PIR OKs repaving, to stage October Dana race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-oks-repaving-t/160997534/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=G4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> That same year, James Haynes died during the Copper World Classic, becoming the seventh fatality at the facility.<ref name=":13244113">{{Cite news |date=July 29, 1985 |title=Racer succumbs from injuries suffered in Sunday PIR event |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-racer-succumbs-from/161083373/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=F5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> 

=== Buddy Jobe era, mass expansion ===
[[File:PhoenixInternationalRacewayGrandstands.jpg|alt=Refer to caption|thumb|Phoenix Raceway's frontstretch grandstands in 1989. The grandstand was built in 1987 after fires burnt down a majority of the original grandstand.]]

On August 23, 1985, Wood stated to the ''Republic'' that an agreement was reached with an unspecified buyer to purchase PIR.<ref name=":1324498">{{Cite news |date=August 23, 1985 |title=Sale of PIR possible |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-sale-of-pir-possibl/161023520/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=G8 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Two days later, the buyers were revealed to be farmer Emmett "Buddy" Jobe and accounting firm owner Patrick Johnson,<ref name=":1324499">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=August 25, 1985 |title=Two Valley men buy PIR, expect to begin operation in '2 weeks' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-two-valley-men-buy/161023574/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> with ownership officially transferring to the duo in September.<ref name=":13244100">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=September 14, 1985 |title=Disappointed Sneva aiming for strong finish to season |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-disappointed-sneva/161026765/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=G13 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> With the purchase, the duo promised an increase in permanent seating capacity from 10,400 to "between 20,000 and 25,000" alongside starting negotiations to obtain a [[NASCAR Busch Grand National Series]] race.<ref name=":13244102">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=September 7, 1985 |title=New PIR owners seek 2nd Indy-car race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-new-pir-owners-seek/161025872/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=G11 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In February 1986, Jobe bought out Johnson's share of ownership, becoming the sole owner of the facility.<ref name=":13244101">{{Cite news |date=February 14, 1986 |title=Jobe Sole PIR Owner |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-jobe-sole-pir-owner/161026738/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=F3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Within the months of April to September 1986, $400,000 worth of renovations were made, including the addition of a pedestrian bridge over the third and fourth turns connecting the infield to outside viewing areas and additional concrete barriers.<ref name=":13244103">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=September 13, 1986 |title=PIR talks with NASCAR heat up |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-talks-with-nasc/161028832/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=G12 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":13244104">{{Cite news |date=September 24, 1986 |title=Hawks, Wilkins agree on deal |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-hawks-wilkins-agre/161029994/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=E3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1987, two separate fires less than a month apart affected the facility's grandstands. The first occurred on April 26 due to a lightning strike, burning around 40% of the frontstretch grandstands.<ref name=":13244106">{{Cite news |date=April 28, 1987 |title=Fire at raceway is probed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-fire-at-raceway-is/161042258/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=B3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":13244107">{{Cite news |date=May 18, 1987 |title=Lightning is blamed for blaze that damaged track's seating |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-lightning-is-blamed/161050231/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=B5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> While plans were initiated to both repair and expand seating capacity,<ref name=":13244108">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=May 2, 1987 |title=PIR plans grandstand repairs for fall race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-plans-grandstan/161045103/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=E7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> in June, another fire affected the frontstretch grandstands; this time due to a [[blowtorch]] construction accident. In response, Jobe announced the construction of an enlarged grandstand made out of steel and aluminum with a capacity of 10,000.<ref name=":13244109">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=June 13, 1987 |title=McSpadden leads Arnold Memorial field |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-mcspadden-leads-arn/161050279/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D8 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>  [[File:AlanKulwickiSearsPoint1991.jpg|alt=refer to caption|thumb|[[Alan Kulwicki]] (pictured in 1991) won the [[1988 Checker 500|first NASCAR Cup Series race]] at Phoenix Raceway in 1988.|220x220px]]On November 30, NASCAR spokesman [[Les Richter]] announced that PIR was awarded a [[NASCAR Cup Series]] race weekend for the following year.<ref name=":13244105">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=December 1, 1987 |title=Winston Cup race to be held at PIR in November |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-winston-cup-race-to/161051409/ |access-date=December 16, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-winston-cup-race-to/161051428/ C2] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> To accommodate NASCAR, a $5 million renovation project was implemented, building a new VIP hospitality building, renovating the garage area, extending pit road by {{Convert|240|ft|m|abbr=on}}, and expanding permanent seating capacity to 30,000 in time for the [[1988 Checker 500]].<ref name=":13244110">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=July 23, 1988 |title=Jobe opens wallet to place PIR on NASCAR circuit |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-jobe-opens-wallet-t/161051572/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=F5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The first Cup Series race at the facility ran as scheduled on November 6, with [[Alan Kulwicki]] winning the event.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=November 7, 1988 |title=Kulwicki engineers Checker victory |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-republic-kulwicki-engineers-chec/131967102/ |access-date=September 18, 2023 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-republic-kulwicki-engineers-chec/131967140/ D6] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The following year, another $2 million was spent on expansion, constructing a four-story VIP suite building on the track's first turn, the expansion of permanent seating capacity to "about 42,000", renovations to the facility's scoring tower and media center, and other upgrades related to beautification.<ref name=":13244111">{{Cite news |last=McManaman |first=Bob |date=November 1, 1989 |title=Buddy Jobe loves 'nurturing' PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-buddy-jobe-loves-n/161057673/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=AW1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-buddy-jobe-loves-n/161057676/ AW3] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1990, plans were drafted to add a 5,000-seat grandstand alongside the construction of a new infield road course,<ref name=":13244115">{{Cite news |last=McManaman |first=Bob |date=August 9, 1990 |title=Study says PIR races worth $90 million to local economy |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-study-says-pir-race/161083723/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> with the latter being completed two years later.<ref name=":13244114">{{Cite news |last=Bravo |first=Al |date=October 2, 1992 |title=Fangio has traffic concerns on new Phoenix road course |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-fangio-has-traffic-co/161104824/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[Arizona Daily Star]] |pages=C5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The facility underwent a $800,000 refurbishment in 1991, adding 700 luxury seats and increased infield parking.<ref name=":13244116">{{Cite news |last=Reisner |first=Mel |date=July 13, 1991 |title=PIR applies to hold NASCAR Winston Cup race in February |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-pir-applies-to-hold-n/161084273/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> That same year, PIR experienced its eighth fatality when [[USAC Silver Crown Series]] driver Danny Milburn crashed during a Silver Crown race.<ref name=":13244117">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=February 4, 1991 |title=Indiana racer dies after PIR crash |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-indiana-racer-dies/161084195/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-indiana-racer-dies/161084204/ D3] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1993, PIR ran its first night race, installing temporary lights to run a [[IMSA GT Championship]] race.<ref name=":13244118">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=July 3, 1993 |title=PIR prepares for 1st-ever night race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-prepares-for-1s/161088194/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=D2 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> By 1995, seating capacity increased to "nearly 60,000", with Jobe stating that he had invested over $10 million (adjusted for inflation, ${{Inflation|index=US|value=10000000|start_year=1995|r=0|fmt=c}}) into the facility.<ref name=":13244119">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=September 16, 1995 |title=PIR has matured in 10 years with Jobe |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-has-matured-in/161088157/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C15 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1997, Arizona Governor [[Fife Symington]] approved state funding for a five-lane bridge to be built over the [[Gila River]] that addressed long-lasting traffic concerns.<ref name=":13244120">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=April 19, 1997 |title=Gila River bridge at PIR gets green light |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-gila-river-bridge-a/161104516/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C23 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>   

=== ISC purchase ===
The first rumors of a potential sale of PIR came in November 1996, with the [[Bruton Smith]]-owned [[Speedway Motorsports|Speedway Motorsports, Inc.]] (SMI) being named as potential buyers; according to the ''Republic''. Both Jobe and SMI spokesman [[Humpy Wheeler]] denied the rumor, with Jobe stating he was getting "a little irritated" at the rumor.<ref name=":13244121">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=November 23, 1996 |title=Annoyed Jobe denies rumors about sale of Phoenix racetrack |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-annoyed-jobe-denies/161107021/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C15 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Jobe reaffirmed his position in another ''Republic'' interview on March 22, 1997, stating, "How much stronger can I make this? I'm not selling."<ref name=":13244122">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=March 22, 1997 |title=Rumors persist, but owner insists PIR not for sale |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-rumors-persist-but/161106212/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C25 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> However, on July 14, the ''Republic'' reported that PIR was "likely" purchased by the Florida-based [[International Speedway Corporation]] (ISC).<ref name=":13244124">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=July 14, 1997 |title=PIR likely sold to Fla. firm |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-likely-sold-to/161105207/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-likely-sold-to/161105221/ A8] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The purchase was confirmed in a press conference that same day, with ISC paying $46 million for the facility; Jobe remained as the president of PIR.<ref name=":13244123">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=July 15, 1997 |title=PIR's future 'secure' with sale |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pirs-future-secur/161108622/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pirs-future-secur/161108644/ A4] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1998, a new 5,000-seat grandstand in the track's second turn named in honor of [[Bobby Allison]] was announced to increase seating capacity to "more than 72,000".<ref name=":13244127">{{Cite news |last=Cole |first=Yoji |date=June 10, 1998 |title=Changes to rev up Avondale raceway |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-changes-to-rev-up-a/161113842/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=1 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Three years later, a new scoring pylon was built to replace the tower built in 1988.<ref name=":13244128">{{Cite news |date=September 7, 2001 |title=PIR installing scoring tower |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-installing-scor/161114487/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 2002, Jobe retired as president of PIR,<ref name=":13244126" /> with [[Watkins Glen International]] president Bryan Sperber replacing Jobe as president of PIR.<ref name=":13244129">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=March 20, 2002 |title=PIR official accepts post in Florida |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-official-accept/161114497/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C11 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The following year, the track's dogleg was also reconfigured, with the dogleg being made wider for both increased safety and passing opportunities. The turn two wall was also extended to fully enclose the track.<ref name=":13244132">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=March 28, 2003 |title=NASCAR likes PIR changes |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-nascar-likes-pir-ch/161115985/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C15 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The project started in May<ref name=":13244133">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=May 30, 2003 |title=Mixed reviews greet PIR project |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-mixed-reviews-greet/161116464/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C13 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> and was completed in October for testing.<ref name=":13244134">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=October 5, 2003 |title=Altered Turn 2 passes inspection |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-altered-turn-2-pass/161116465/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In December, PIR began installing [[SAFER barrier|SAFER barriers]] around the oval track's perimeter;<ref name=":13244136">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=December 10, 2003 |title=PIR starts installing SAFER wall system |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-starts-installi/161139892/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C9 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> the installation was complete by January 2004.<ref name=":13244135">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=January 23, 2004 |title=SAFER wall at PIR is not invitation to riskier racing |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-safer-wall-at-pir-i/161140614/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C13 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

PIR officials began lobbying for a second NASCAR Cup Series race weekend in February 2003.<ref name=":13244144">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=February 15, 2003 |title=PIR lobbies for 2nd NASCAR race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-lobbies-for-2nd/161162067/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C14 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Despite Sperber stating the track was not seeking to install permanent lighting in January 2003,<ref name=":13244130">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=January 24, 2003 |title=Mast retires due to poisoning |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-mast-retires-due-to/161115944/ |access-date=December 17, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C11 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> PIR officials initiated negotiations with Arizona politicians to use tax revenue to construct lights and other road renovations in further efforts to allure a second Cup Series weekend.<ref name=":13244131">{{Cite news |last=Harris |first=Craig |date=March 1, 2003 |title=PIR wants taxes to fund lights, road |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-wants-taxes-to/161115949/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-wants-taxes-to/161115955/ B2] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> After failing to receive it for 2004,<ref name=":13244143">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=June 13, 2003 |title=No 2nd NASCAR race at PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-no-2nd-nascar-race/161162873/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C12 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> a second Cup Series weekend for 2005 was officially awarded on May 14 after Arizona government officials approved an allocation of $5 million in state funding to renovate roads near PIR.<ref name=":13244137">{{Cite news |last1=Harris |first1=Craig |last2=Sauerzopf |first2=Marty |date=May 15, 2004 |title=Valley fans take NASCAR victory lap |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-valley-fans-take-na/161140996/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=A1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-valley-fans-take-na/161141016/ A2] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> A $5 million permanent lighting system to host night racing was installed soon after, being completed in March 2005.<ref name=":13244138">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=November 4, 2004 |title=Added prestige comes with 2nd race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-added-prestige-come/161141052/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=NC4 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":13244139">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=March 30, 2005 |title=Let there be lights: PIR unveils $5 mil system |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-let-there-be-lights/161141115/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 2006, new amenities were constructed, including an extension of the Allison Grandstand to 14,000 seats and a new luxury lounge.<ref name=":13244140">{{Cite news |last=Bui |first=Lynh |date=December 12, 2005 |title=NASCAR revs up for affluent fans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-nascar-revs-up-for/161149216/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-nascar-revs-up-for/161149240/ B8] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":13244141">{{Cite news |last=Bui |first=Lynh |date=January 23, 2006 |title=PIR upgrade moves along as NASCAR race gets near |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-upgrade-moves-a/161149396/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=B5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref name=":13244142">{{Cite news |last=Bui |first=Lynh |date=April 19, 2006 |title=PIR upgrades ready for race fans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-upgrades-ready/161150214/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 2010, seating capacity was reduced to 55,000 when seats were widened to {{Convert|22|in|cm|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":13244145">{{Cite news |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=April 4, 2010 |title=Night Riders |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-night-riders/161172988/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C2 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>   

=== 2011 reconfiguration and 2018 renovations ===
[[File:PIR A.jpg|alt=Refer to caption|thumb|Phoenix Raceway (pictured in 2017) after the 2011 reconfiguration.]]
On November 19, 2010, ISC officials announced a $100 million long-term project aimed at PIR's "development".<ref name=":13244146">{{Cite news |last=Madrid |first=David |date=November 19, 2010 |title=PIR starts its engine on $100 mil in improvements |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-starts-its-engi/161173326/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=18 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Approximately four months later, PIR track officials announced a repave and reconfiguration of the oval track; among said changes stated were the widening of the frontstretch by {{Convert|10|ft|m|abbr=on}} to {{Convert|62|ft|m|abbr=on}}, the track's pit road being pushed back, and the dogleg being "pushed out" by {{Convert|95|ft|m|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":13244147">{{Cite news |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=February 9, 2011 |title=A new focus on fast |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-a-new-focus-on-fast/161173353/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-a-new-focus-on-fast/161173358/ C5] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Additionally, the apron underneath the dogleg, which at the time was covered in grass, was paved over, subsequently leading to drivers often cutting the dogleg apron.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Greg |date=March 10, 2018 |title=Moore: NASCAR drivers hit dive-bomb in Phoenix for last time under current configuration |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2018/03/10/moore-nascar-drivers-hit-dive-bomb-phoenix-last-time-under-current-configuration/412880002/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref> A ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony featuring driver [[Jeff Gordon]] breaking the old pavement apart with an excavator was held on February 27,<ref name=":13244149">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=February 28, 2011 |title=PIR, drivers gear up for upcoming changes to track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-pir-drivers-gear-u/161173923/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C9 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> and construction began by April.<ref name=":13244150">{{Cite news |last=Madrid |first=David |date=April 9, 2011 |title=Face-lift to make PIR more fan friendly |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-face-lift-to-make-p/161173925/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=3 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> The repave was completed by October of that year for testing,<ref name=":13244151">{{Cite news |last=Armijo |first=Mark |date=October 5, 2011 |title=Most drivers expect faster times at PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-most-drivers-expect/161173936/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-most-drivers-expect/161173939/ C4] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> and it received positive reactions from numerous drivers, including [[Tony Stewart]] and [[Carl Edwards]].<ref name=":13244152">{{Cite news |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=November 14, 2011 |title=Drivers come away impressed by repaved PIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-drivers-come-away-i/161173988/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C5 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> Despite changes, both attendance and seating capacity continued to decline; by 2014, capacity decreased further to 50,000 according to the ''Republic''.<ref name=":13244148">{{Cite news |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=March 11, 2014 |title=Earlier race date not packing track |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-earlier-race-date-n/161174073/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=C11 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref>

On November 17, 2016, ''[[NBC Sports]]'' reported that PIR officials submitted a renovation project for ISC officials to approve.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Long |first=Dustin |date=November 17, 2016 |title=Plans submitted for significant changes at Phoenix International Raceway |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/plans-submitted-for-significant-changes-at-phoenix-international-raceway |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[NBC Sports]] |language=en-US}}</ref> 13 days later, the ISC board of directors approved the $178 million project. Within the project, plans were made to demolish the frontstretch grandstands, extend the Allison Grandstand, redesign the track's infield, shift the start-finish line to after turn two and before the dogleg, add additional suites, and implement other modernization improvements.{{Efn|Attributed to multiple references:<ref>{{Cite web |last=McFadin |first=Daniel |date=November 30, 2018 |title=ISC approves $178 million renovation of Phoenix International Raceway |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/nascar-isc-approves-178-million-renovation-phoenix-international-raceway |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[NBC Sports]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":13244153">{{Cite news |last=Gómez |first=Laura |date=December 1, 2016 |title=$178M boost to rev up raceway accessories |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-178m-boost-to-rev/161174557/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=3A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-178m-boost-to-rev/161174561/ 11A] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Frigerio |first=Josh |date=January 30, 2017 |title=Phoenix International Raceway upgrades: $178M renovation project to finish by fall 2018 races |url=https://www.abc15.com/entertainment/events/phoenix-international-raceway-upgrades-178m-renovation-project-to-finish-by-fall-2018-races |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[KNXV-TV]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bowling |first=Joshua |date=November 5, 2018 |title=Ahead of NASCAR Opening Weekend, here's every renovation at ISM Raceway |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/southwest-valley/2018/11/05/ahead-nascar-opening-weekend-here-every-update-ism-raceway/1833386002/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref>|name=alpha}} In September 2017, Ingenuity Sun Media (ISM) bought the naming rights for PIR starting in 2018, with the track being renamed to "ISM Raceway".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=September 25, 2017 |title=Phoenix International Raceway to become ISM Raceway starting in 2018 |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2017/09/25/phoenix-international-raceway-become-ism-raceway-starting-2018/698907001/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref> On August 20, 2018, Sperber announced his retirement as president of the facility,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=August 20, 2018 |title=Bryan Sperber stepping down as ISM Raceway president after November NASCAR race |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2018/08/20/ism-raceway-phoenix-nascar-track-replace-bryan-sperber-president/1047949002/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref> with ISC Design & Development director of business operations Julie Giese being named as Sperber's replacement.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=October 23, 2018 |title=ISM Raceway names Julie Giese new president |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2018/10/23/julie-giese-named-president-ism-raceway/1741826002/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref> The renovation project was completed in time for the [[2018 Can-Am 500]].<ref name=":67">{{Cite news |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=November 8, 2018 |title=Transformation of Valley NASCAR track immediately visible |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-transformation-of-v/161174916/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |work=[[The Arizona Republic]] |pages=3C |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 2019, seating capacity decreased to 42,000 according to ISC archive records.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |last=Page |first=Scott |date=January 26, 2019 |title=International Speedway Corporation continues to reduce track seating |url=https://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2019/story/_/id/25858279/international-speedway-corporation-continues-reduce-track-seating |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308052630/http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2019/story/_/id/25858279/international-speedway-corporation-continues-reduce-track-seating |archive-date=March 8, 2023 |access-date=February 15, 2024 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> That same year, ownership of the facility was transferred to the sanctioning body of NASCAR when ISC was bought out by NASCAR.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Weaver |first=Matt |date=October 18, 2019 |title=What NASCAR's $2 billion ISC merger means in the short term |url=https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a2152851/what-nascars-2-billion-isc-merger-means-short-term/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919054543/https://www.autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a2152851/what-nascars-2-billion-isc-merger-means-short-term/ |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 18, 2024 |website=[[Autoweek]]}}</ref> The following year, ISM and the speedway ended their naming rights relationship despite a 10-year deal, with the track renaming itself to "Phoenix Raceway".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knight |first=Michael |date=January 3, 2020 |title=Call it Phoenix Raceway again — ISM naming rights discontinued at Avondale track |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2020/01/03/phoenix-raceway-avondale-racetrack-name-nascar-cup-series-2020-championship/2788129001/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref> In November 2022, Giese stepped down as president of Phoenix Raceway to run operations for the [[Chicago Street Course]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cusumano |first=Cole |date=August 25, 2022 |title=Phoenix Raceway losing track president Julie Giese to Chicago road course |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2022/08/25/phoenix-raceway-losing-track-president-julie-giese-chicago-road-course/10283246002/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cusumano |first=Cole |date=November 6, 2022 |title=Julie Giese bids farewell to Phoenix Raceway in final NASCAR championship weekend |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2022/11/06/departing-track-president-proud-phoenix-raceways-transformation/10601813002/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref> with [[Bell Bank]] executive Latasha Causey taking over the position.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cusumano |first=Cole |date=November 1, 2022 |title=Latasha Causey will be next track president at Phoenix Raceway |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/motor/2022/11/01/latasha-causey-next-track-president-phoenix-raceway/10655653002/ |access-date=December 18, 2024 |website=[[The Arizona Republic]] |language=en-US}}</ref>