Some golden tickets open the door of a chocolate factory. Others signify excellence when it comes to organizing a motorsports event.
As to which WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca was awarded, the answer should be obvious.
IMSA—North America’s top sportscar race sanctioning body—awarded the iconic track with its 2025 Golden Ticket Award, recognizing Laguna Seca for its operation of the annual SportsCar Championship, which is held in May. The award was presented as part of ceremonies ahead of the season-opening 24 Hours of Daytona Jan. 24-25.
“This recognition reflects the hard work of our entire staff and volunteers, our partners and our community,” said the raceway’s president and general manager, Mel Harder, on accepting the award, adding that it gives added motivation to continue raising the bar.
In November, WeatherTech Raceway earned Motorsport Event of the Year honors at the International Historic Motoring Awards ceremony in London.
The Golden Ticket measures several aspects of a successful event related to fan experience, atmosphere and impact.
IMSA returns to Laguna Seca May 1-3.

(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.