Construction workers have begun demolition work on the property of the former Auto Club Speedway in California as the site is prepared for redevelopment.
NASCAR sold 433 of the 522 acres surrounding the two-mile oval — now referred to as the Speedway in Fontana — that is being turned into an industrial park by Hillwood Investment Properties, while retaining the rest to build a short track facility.
The Daily Bulletin first reported on the work, which NASCAR has confirmed to American Cars And Racing.
NASCAR originally planned to have the new track ready to race for the 2024 season, but is still waiting for the final approvals to begin construction.
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The proposed short track is shown in blue for comparison to the two-mile oval. (NASCAR)
NASCAR held its last Cup Series race at the track this February, which was won by Kyle Busch.
Its slot on next year’s schedule has been filled with a June 16 visit to Iowa Speedway, which is also owned by NASCAR.
The Clash at the Coliseum will serve as NASCAR’s only southern California-market event next year.
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NASCAR has previously said it will need about 18 months to get it ready to host a race once construction begins, which already puts a 2025 Auto Club return to the schedule in jeopardy.
When the new track is built, it will likely end up being a half-mile oval. Site plans have depicted it featuring tight turns connected by long straights.