Sebring International Raceway
Location:
Sebring, Florida, USA
Local Weather & Time
Track Info
Sebring International Raceway - Sebring, Florida, USA
Airfield-born permanent road course - clockwise - famously bumpy concrete and asphalt with the flat-out Sunset Bend
When was the track built?
Sebring grew out of Hendricks Army Airfield, a World War II B-17 training base. After the war, Alec Ulmann mapped a course across the runways and service roads, staging the first event on December 31, 1950. The 12 Hours of Sebring began in 1952 and quickly became America’s signature endurance classic. The modern 6.019 km configuration blends permanent road course with original concrete airfield sections that define its character.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the Sam Collier 6 Hour Memorial on New Year’s Eve 1950, won by Frits Koster and Ralph Deshon in a Crosley Hotshot. Two years later the inaugural 12 Hours established the “once around the clock” tradition, and in 1959 Sebring even hosted Formula 1’s United States Grand Prix.
What's the circuit like?
- Brutal surface: A unique mix of concrete slabs and asphalt creates relentless bumps that stress suspensions, tyres and driver stamina.
- High-speed commitment: Turn 1 is a fast, bumpy right that sets the tone; the lap builds through Big Bend and the Hairpin to the flat-out Ullman Straight.
- Sunset Bend finale: Turn 17 is a long, lumpy right taken in sixth gear for prototypes - precision over the seams matters as much as bravery.
- Traffic management: Multi-class endurance racing means constant mirrors and timing-blue flags at Sebring are a way of life.
- Benchmark pace: WEC race lap record 1:41.800 (LMP1). IMSA DPi race bests have reached 1:46.151, illustrating the sustained speed despite the bumps.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- FIA WEC - LMP1 (race lap): 1:41.800 - Kamui Kobayashi, Toyota TS050 Hybrid, 2019 1000 Miles of Sebring.
- IMSA - DPi (race lap): 1:46.151 - Felipe Nasr & Renger van der Zande (tied), Cadillac DPi-V.R, 2021 12 Hours of Sebring.
- LMP2 (race lap): 1:46.638 - Romain Dumas, Porsche RS Spyder Evo, 2007 12 Hours.
- LMH (race lap): 1:47.885 - Sébastien Buemi, Toyota GR010 Hybrid, 2023 1000 Miles.
- LMDh (race lap): 1:48.311 - Renger van der Zande, Cadillac V-Series.R, 2023 12 Hours.
Why go?
A festival of endurance with old-school access: open camping, sunrise stints and the unmistakable soundtrack of prototypes hammering the bumps. The infield turns into a city of fans, food trucks and manufacturer displays, and the on-track product is relentlessly busy.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1: See who dares keep it flat over the concrete seams-spectacular at dusk.
- The Hairpin (T7): Heavy braking, late dives and traction battles onto the back section.
- Tower Turn (T13) & Collier/Cunningham: Great for rhythm, traffic management and prototype vs GT pace differences.
- Ullman Straight: Prototype top speed and GT slipstreams before the commitment test into T17.
- Sunset Bend (T17): Classic Sebring-watch cars dance across bumps onto the pit straight, especially at night.
Not just the 12 Hours: series at Sebring
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: The Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring anchors March with GTP/GT fields and stacked support races.
FIA WEC: The 1000 Miles of Sebring joined the “Super Sebring” weekends in 2019 and 2022–2023, bringing Hypercars to the bumps.
GT World Challenge America / Trans-Am: High-downforce GT3s and American muscle showcase very different lines through the same concrete.
Historic/club events: HSR Classic 12 Hour and SVRA weekends put vintage prototypes and GTs back where they belong-pounding Sunset Bend.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Sebring International Raceway - 12 Hours of Sebring
Best options are driving and using official on-site parking passes or free parking outside the gates near Gates 3 and 4 with on-property trams for the last leg. Rideshare or taxi drop offs should use the free outside parking areas and pedestrian Gate 4 to Tram Central.
Driving and parking
- If you have an on-site parking pass: follow the color-signed routes and stewards to Midway, Green Park or your reserved area. Paddock parking needs a specific pass.
- Free parking option: use the outside lots near Gates 3 and 4 on Carroll Shelby Road. Enter on foot at Gate 4 for Tram Central Station and quick access around the site.
- Overnighting: free parking and camping are permitted outside the gates off Carroll Shelby Road during major events.
- Directions page: the raceway lists airport-to-track driving guidance and confirms the GPS address above.
On-property trams - easiest way once parked
- Blue Line - Midway: Tram Central Station to multiple Midway stops for food, Fan Zone and vendors.
- Red Line - Paddock: Tram Central Station to the Paddock including East Paddock.
- Purple Line - Ulmann express: direct from the Ulmann Straight parking to the Paddock, with transfers to Blue at Tram Central.
Tip: After the checkered flag, trams get busy. Waiting a few minutes before joining the queue can speed up your exit overall.
Rideshare and taxis
- Drop off strategy: set your destination to the free parking outside Gate 4 or near Gate 3, then walk through Gate 4 to Tram Central. Vehicles without a parking pass cannot enter the infield.
Walking from free parking and tram stops
- Gate 4 → Tram Central: a short, stewarded walk to the hub, then hop on Blue or Red for Midway or Paddock.
- Pedestrian bridges and routes: signed walkways and bridges connect viewing areas including Green Park and the Midway.
Accessibility
- ADA parking: designated spaces at multiple locations - arrive early as they fill quickly.
- Viewing platforms: wheelchair platforms at Turn 3 and Turn 17, plus lifts on the Green Park bridge.
Airports and long distance travel
- Sebring Regional Airport SEF: general aviation airport adjacent to the circuit - no scheduled commercial service.
- Commercial options: Punta Gorda (PGD) is the closest commercial airport. Orlando MCO, Tampa TPA, West Palm Beach PBI and Fort Myers RSW are roughly 2 hours by car, Sarasota SRQ about 90 minutes, Miami MIA about 3 hours.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Gate 4: best for free outside parking, pedestrian entry and Tram Central Station.
- Gate 3: additional free outside parking area and pedestrian entry point on big event days.
- Midway - Paddock areas: use Blue Line for Midway and Red Line for Paddock once inside.
Always follow the gate and parking printed on your e-ticket, and check the raceway pages for any last minute parking or tram updates.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Sebring International Raceway (Sebring - Highlands County, Florida, USA)
Whether you are here for the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, SuperSebring support festivals, historic racing or club events, central Florida’s lake country adds nature parks, small town charm and family attractions - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Highlands Hammock State Park: Boardwalks through old growth hammock, a seasonal tram tour and a small CCC museum - great shade on warm days.
- Lake Jackson City Pier Beach: Calm swimming area, playgrounds and sunset views a few minutes from Sebring’s downtown Circle.
- Children’s Museum of the Highlands: Hands on exhibits for younger kids - easy morning activity.
- Airboat rides on Lake Istokpoga: Short wildlife tours for gator and bird spotting - book an early or late slot for cooler temps.
- Henscratch Farms: U-pick grapes in season, country store and photo friendly farm stops near Lake Placid.
- Lake Placid murals: Dozens of outdoor murals with a small depot museum - fun for a gentle scavenger walk.
Many family venues run seasonal hours and may add race week specials - check the calendar for your exact dates.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Military Sea Services Museum: Compact, volunteer run museum in Sebring with engaging exhibits and local stories.
- Museum of Florida Art & Culture (Avon Park): Regional art and history galleries on the college campus - check term time opening hours.
- Historic Downtown Sebring: The Circle’s indie shops, cafés and occasional festivals make a relaxed pre dinner stroll.
- Archbold Biological Station (south of Lake Placid): Nature center and trails highlighting the Lake Wales Ridge - limited hours, check ahead.
Eat and drink like a local
- Lakefront grills: Casual seafood and burger spots around Lake Jackson - perfect at sunset after qualifying.
- Downtown Sebring Circle: Coffee, ice cream and pub fare for families and groups between sessions.
- Steakhouse and smokehouse staples: Central Florida comfort plates - book prime times on Friday and Saturday.
- Citrus treats: Look for fresh squeezed orange juice, soft serve twists and seasonal produce stands on US 27.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Run or ride Lake Jackson: Flat multi mile loop with sunrise views - bring water and start early.
- Kayak - fish - bird: Lakes Jackson and Istokpoga offer calm paddling and renowned bass fishing - local outfitters can set you up.
- Golf: Public courses at Sun n Lake and Sebring International Golf Resort suit mixed ability groups.
- Hammock trails: Short loops in Highlands Hammock deliver shaded nature time without leaving town.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- LEGOLAND Florida - Winter Haven - 1 to 1.25 hours. Theme park sized for kids plus a water park in season.
- Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales - About 1 hour. Historic singing carillon tower, trails and landscaped vistas - restful half day.
- Lake Wales Ridge State Forest - 45 to 70 minutes. Sandhill hikes and rare scrub habitats for quiet nature time.
- Fort Pierce Inlet or Vero Beach - 1.5 to 2 hours. Atlantic beaches for a full day if you add an extra night.
- Tampa or Orlando add ons - 1.5 to 2 hours. Big city museums, sports and theme parks if you are extending your trip.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular gardens, parks and theme parks often use timed tickets - check live calendars when you book.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - March brings the biggest crowds and most off track programming. Hotels, restaurants and outfitters book up Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Winter - spring is comfortable. Summer is hot with frequent afternoon storms - plan indoor breaks and early starts.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Track tours and certain fan activities may pause or switch to special slots during major events - check your week’s schedule.
- Airfield adjacency: Parts of the complex share access roads with the regional airport - follow event maps and temporary signage.
- What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, bug spray for evenings and comfortable shoes for sandy - grassy infield areas. A light rain layer helps with pop up showers.
- Reservations: Airboats, state park tram tours, downtown restaurants and farm visits can sell out on race weekends - book in advance where possible.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Sebring, Florida, USA
Track Info
Sebring International Raceway - Sebring, Florida, USA
Airfield-born permanent road course - clockwise - famously bumpy concrete and asphalt with the flat-out Sunset Bend
When was the track built?
Sebring grew out of Hendricks Army Airfield, a World War II B-17 training base. After the war, Alec Ulmann mapped a course across the runways and service roads, staging the first event on December 31, 1950. The 12 Hours of Sebring began in 1952 and quickly became America’s signature endurance classic. The modern 6.019 km configuration blends permanent road course with original concrete airfield sections that define its character.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the Sam Collier 6 Hour Memorial on New Year’s Eve 1950, won by Frits Koster and Ralph Deshon in a Crosley Hotshot. Two years later the inaugural 12 Hours established the “once around the clock” tradition, and in 1959 Sebring even hosted Formula 1’s United States Grand Prix.
What's the circuit like?
- Brutal surface: A unique mix of concrete slabs and asphalt creates relentless bumps that stress suspensions, tyres and driver stamina.
- High-speed commitment: Turn 1 is a fast, bumpy right that sets the tone; the lap builds through Big Bend and the Hairpin to the flat-out Ullman Straight.
- Sunset Bend finale: Turn 17 is a long, lumpy right taken in sixth gear for prototypes - precision over the seams matters as much as bravery.
- Traffic management: Multi-class endurance racing means constant mirrors and timing-blue flags at Sebring are a way of life.
- Benchmark pace: WEC race lap record 1:41.800 (LMP1). IMSA DPi race bests have reached 1:46.151, illustrating the sustained speed despite the bumps.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- FIA WEC - LMP1 (race lap): 1:41.800 - Kamui Kobayashi, Toyota TS050 Hybrid, 2019 1000 Miles of Sebring.
- IMSA - DPi (race lap): 1:46.151 - Felipe Nasr & Renger van der Zande (tied), Cadillac DPi-V.R, 2021 12 Hours of Sebring.
- LMP2 (race lap): 1:46.638 - Romain Dumas, Porsche RS Spyder Evo, 2007 12 Hours.
- LMH (race lap): 1:47.885 - Sébastien Buemi, Toyota GR010 Hybrid, 2023 1000 Miles.
- LMDh (race lap): 1:48.311 - Renger van der Zande, Cadillac V-Series.R, 2023 12 Hours.
Why go?
A festival of endurance with old-school access: open camping, sunrise stints and the unmistakable soundtrack of prototypes hammering the bumps. The infield turns into a city of fans, food trucks and manufacturer displays, and the on-track product is relentlessly busy.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1: See who dares keep it flat over the concrete seams-spectacular at dusk.
- The Hairpin (T7): Heavy braking, late dives and traction battles onto the back section.
- Tower Turn (T13) & Collier/Cunningham: Great for rhythm, traffic management and prototype vs GT pace differences.
- Ullman Straight: Prototype top speed and GT slipstreams before the commitment test into T17.
- Sunset Bend (T17): Classic Sebring-watch cars dance across bumps onto the pit straight, especially at night.
Not just the 12 Hours: series at Sebring
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: The Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring anchors March with GTP/GT fields and stacked support races.
FIA WEC: The 1000 Miles of Sebring joined the “Super Sebring” weekends in 2019 and 2022–2023, bringing Hypercars to the bumps.
GT World Challenge America / Trans-Am: High-downforce GT3s and American muscle showcase very different lines through the same concrete.
Historic/club events: HSR Classic 12 Hour and SVRA weekends put vintage prototypes and GTs back where they belong-pounding Sunset Bend.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Sebring International Raceway - 12 Hours of Sebring
Best options are driving and using official on-site parking passes or free parking outside the gates near Gates 3 and 4 with on-property trams for the last leg. Rideshare or taxi drop offs should use the free outside parking areas and pedestrian Gate 4 to Tram Central.
Driving and parking
- If you have an on-site parking pass: follow the color-signed routes and stewards to Midway, Green Park or your reserved area. Paddock parking needs a specific pass.
- Free parking option: use the outside lots near Gates 3 and 4 on Carroll Shelby Road. Enter on foot at Gate 4 for Tram Central Station and quick access around the site.
- Overnighting: free parking and camping are permitted outside the gates off Carroll Shelby Road during major events.
- Directions page: the raceway lists airport-to-track driving guidance and confirms the GPS address above.
On-property trams - easiest way once parked
- Blue Line - Midway: Tram Central Station to multiple Midway stops for food, Fan Zone and vendors.
- Red Line - Paddock: Tram Central Station to the Paddock including East Paddock.
- Purple Line - Ulmann express: direct from the Ulmann Straight parking to the Paddock, with transfers to Blue at Tram Central.
Tip: After the checkered flag, trams get busy. Waiting a few minutes before joining the queue can speed up your exit overall.
Rideshare and taxis
- Drop off strategy: set your destination to the free parking outside Gate 4 or near Gate 3, then walk through Gate 4 to Tram Central. Vehicles without a parking pass cannot enter the infield.
Walking from free parking and tram stops
- Gate 4 → Tram Central: a short, stewarded walk to the hub, then hop on Blue or Red for Midway or Paddock.
- Pedestrian bridges and routes: signed walkways and bridges connect viewing areas including Green Park and the Midway.
Accessibility
- ADA parking: designated spaces at multiple locations - arrive early as they fill quickly.
- Viewing platforms: wheelchair platforms at Turn 3 and Turn 17, plus lifts on the Green Park bridge.
Airports and long distance travel
- Sebring Regional Airport SEF: general aviation airport adjacent to the circuit - no scheduled commercial service.
- Commercial options: Punta Gorda (PGD) is the closest commercial airport. Orlando MCO, Tampa TPA, West Palm Beach PBI and Fort Myers RSW are roughly 2 hours by car, Sarasota SRQ about 90 minutes, Miami MIA about 3 hours.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Gate 4: best for free outside parking, pedestrian entry and Tram Central Station.
- Gate 3: additional free outside parking area and pedestrian entry point on big event days.
- Midway - Paddock areas: use Blue Line for Midway and Red Line for Paddock once inside.
Always follow the gate and parking printed on your e-ticket, and check the raceway pages for any last minute parking or tram updates.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Sebring International Raceway (Sebring - Highlands County, Florida, USA)
Whether you are here for the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, SuperSebring support festivals, historic racing or club events, central Florida’s lake country adds nature parks, small town charm and family attractions - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Highlands Hammock State Park: Boardwalks through old growth hammock, a seasonal tram tour and a small CCC museum - great shade on warm days.
- Lake Jackson City Pier Beach: Calm swimming area, playgrounds and sunset views a few minutes from Sebring’s downtown Circle.
- Children’s Museum of the Highlands: Hands on exhibits for younger kids - easy morning activity.
- Airboat rides on Lake Istokpoga: Short wildlife tours for gator and bird spotting - book an early or late slot for cooler temps.
- Henscratch Farms: U-pick grapes in season, country store and photo friendly farm stops near Lake Placid.
- Lake Placid murals: Dozens of outdoor murals with a small depot museum - fun for a gentle scavenger walk.
Many family venues run seasonal hours and may add race week specials - check the calendar for your exact dates.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Military Sea Services Museum: Compact, volunteer run museum in Sebring with engaging exhibits and local stories.
- Museum of Florida Art & Culture (Avon Park): Regional art and history galleries on the college campus - check term time opening hours.
- Historic Downtown Sebring: The Circle’s indie shops, cafés and occasional festivals make a relaxed pre dinner stroll.
- Archbold Biological Station (south of Lake Placid): Nature center and trails highlighting the Lake Wales Ridge - limited hours, check ahead.
Eat and drink like a local
- Lakefront grills: Casual seafood and burger spots around Lake Jackson - perfect at sunset after qualifying.
- Downtown Sebring Circle: Coffee, ice cream and pub fare for families and groups between sessions.
- Steakhouse and smokehouse staples: Central Florida comfort plates - book prime times on Friday and Saturday.
- Citrus treats: Look for fresh squeezed orange juice, soft serve twists and seasonal produce stands on US 27.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Run or ride Lake Jackson: Flat multi mile loop with sunrise views - bring water and start early.
- Kayak - fish - bird: Lakes Jackson and Istokpoga offer calm paddling and renowned bass fishing - local outfitters can set you up.
- Golf: Public courses at Sun n Lake and Sebring International Golf Resort suit mixed ability groups.
- Hammock trails: Short loops in Highlands Hammock deliver shaded nature time without leaving town.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- LEGOLAND Florida - Winter Haven - 1 to 1.25 hours. Theme park sized for kids plus a water park in season.
- Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales - About 1 hour. Historic singing carillon tower, trails and landscaped vistas - restful half day.
- Lake Wales Ridge State Forest - 45 to 70 minutes. Sandhill hikes and rare scrub habitats for quiet nature time.
- Fort Pierce Inlet or Vero Beach - 1.5 to 2 hours. Atlantic beaches for a full day if you add an extra night.
- Tampa or Orlando add ons - 1.5 to 2 hours. Big city museums, sports and theme parks if you are extending your trip.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular gardens, parks and theme parks often use timed tickets - check live calendars when you book.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - March brings the biggest crowds and most off track programming. Hotels, restaurants and outfitters book up Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Winter - spring is comfortable. Summer is hot with frequent afternoon storms - plan indoor breaks and early starts.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Track tours and certain fan activities may pause or switch to special slots during major events - check your week’s schedule.
- Airfield adjacency: Parts of the complex share access roads with the regional airport - follow event maps and temporary signage.
- What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, bug spray for evenings and comfortable shoes for sandy - grassy infield areas. A light rain layer helps with pop up showers.
- Reservations: Airboats, state park tram tours, downtown restaurants and farm visits can sell out on race weekends - book in advance where possible.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
