Our list of must see races

Like many motorsport enthusiasts, we have a list of must see races that we want to see 'in-person' before we bite the dust.  Here is the list of our Top Bucket List races (in no particular order)...

Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious, iconic, and challenging races in Formula 1. Held annually on the narrow, winding streets of Monte Carlo at the end of Ma, this race is a must see...that is if you can afford it. The principality is one of the most expensive places in the world and where the elite go to holiday. The race is famous for its glamorous setting, tight corners, and lack of overtaking opportunities, making qualifying crucial. Winning at Monaco is a highlight in any driver's career, as the circuit requires immense precision and skill. Winners of the past have been seen jumping into the swimming pool in the hospitality area of the paddock or even more recently the bay area itself. 

Known as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the Indianapolis 500 is a 500-mile race that takes place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, commonly known as the "Brickyard." It is the crown jewel of the IndyCar series, featuring high-speed oval racing at speeds over 220 mph...nuts. The race is steeped in tradition, including the glass jug of 'victory milk' and a kiss of the iconic Yard of Bricks at the start/finish line.  Many past and present Formula 1 drivers have attempted to win the prestigious race in Indy, proving its provenance far exceeds the United States.

The Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) is one of the most dangerous and thrilling motorcycle races in the world. Held on public roads on the Isle of Man (a small island in the Irish Sea between Ireland and the UK), the race covers a 37.73-mile circuit filled with tight turns, elevation changes, and high-speed straights around the island. The TT is notorious for its high risks, with riders reaching speeds of over 130 mph on roads that are not designed for racing, leading to a number of fatalities over the years.  Not for the faint of heart, this is a popular destination for many motorsport enthusiasts and two-wheeled racers alike.  The Isle of Man is also known to be the birthplace of MotoGP as the race was first held here 75 years ago in 1949.

The Dakar Rally is a legendary off-road endurance race that originally ran from Paris to Dakar but has since moved to various locations, including South America and Saudi Arabia. The race covers thousands of kilometers over rough terrain, including deserts, mountains, and sand dunes, testing the limits of both man and machine. The Dakar is known for its grueling conditions and the challenge it presents to drivers, navigators, and their vehicles. Carlos Sainz Sr, father of Ferrari Formula 1 driver, Carlos Sainz Jr, has won the Dakar Rally three times (in 2010, 2018, and 2020).

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR’s most prestigious race, held annually at Daytona International Speedway in Florida in the month of February (just before it gets too unbearably hot). It is the opening race of the NASCAR Cup Series season and is known for its high-speed drafting, close finishes, and intense competition. The race covers 500 miles on a 2.5-mile tri-oval track and is often referred to as the "Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing."  Beyond the on-track racing, there is 'plenty to see' in the infield, with fans camping onsite throughout the weekend.

The MotoGP race at Valencia is the final event of the MotoGP season, often determining the championship winner for the Individual and Constructor championship(s). Held at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, the track features a tight, twisty layout that challenges riders with its technical corners and frequent changes of direction. The Valencia race is known for its dramatic atmosphere, with fans packing the grandstands to witness the season's climax. What makes the Ricardo Tormo race circuit so unique is its bowl-like design resembling that of a Nascar or Indy oval track.  This means spectators can see all of the on-track action, compared to a traditional road racing circuit that has limited vantage points as the tracj twists and winds through bends, trees, and elevation changes.  We are suckers for MotoGP at any circuit but this one is the tops!

Now we know we have already featured a Formula 1 circuit on this list, but the Formula 1 race at Monza, also known as the Italian Grand Prix, is one of the oldest and most iconic races in F1 history. Monza is dubbed the "Temple of Speed" due to its long straights and fast corners, where cars reach some of the highest speeds in Formula 1. The passionate Tifosi (Italian fans...and yes we sell a Tifosi Tee), add to the unique atmosphere, making a win at Monza particularly special, especially for Ferrari drivers. The sea of red creates a post-race podium environment unlike anywhere else in motorsport racing.  if you find yourself in Milan, Italy in early September its worth the short drive North.

The Pike's Peak International Hill Climb, also known as "The Race to the Clouds," is a time trial event where drivers race up a 12.42-mile course to the summit of Pike's Peak in Colorado. The race features 156 turns and an elevation gain of 4,720 feet, ending at over 14,000 feet above sea level. The changing weather, sheer drops, and thin air make it one of the most challenging and dangerous motorsport events in the world. This may (or may not) be for you depending on your fear of heights and elevation!

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a 24 hour endurance race held annually in the middle of June in (you guessed it) Le Mans, France.  The 24 hour race had its inaugural race in 1923 and features multiple classes of race cars, each of which has their own distinct regulations and characteristics.  This means you may see various makes and models with varying body types (and shapes) all racing alongside one another.  The winner is the team (and car) that covered the most distance over the 24 hours. Being a stones throw away from Paris you may even be able to sweet talk your significant other into making the trip with you.  That is if they can stand motorsport action for 24 hours straight.

With every passing day we continue to get older, busier, and full of more excuses as to why we cant do things.  This list is a reminder of the life left yet to live and that fast is always fun.  Now start checking things off your bucket list, whatever they may.