West Virginia Motor Speedway Set To Build New 3/8 Mile Short Track for 2025!

May 27th, 2025

In an exciting announcement that promises to reignite the flames of motorsport action at West Virginia Motor Speedway, the track is ecstatic to reveal a transformative new chapter for the iconic West Virginia Motor Speedway (WVMS). Beginning in 2025, the historic venue will be home to a brand-new 3/8 mile short track, with work already underway by new track owner, Mike Hurley.

The transition from the previous 5/8 mile track to this cutting-edge 3/8 mile short track marks a bold but necessary step forward for WVMS. This decision was not made lightly and the history of the 5/8 will continue to be preserved. However, extensive research, driver feedback, and fan opinions have all been meticulously considered and the best step forward for WVMS is a brand new 3/8 mile track.

Through a combination of film analysis, discussions with racers, and in-depth analytics, the team has crafted a track that maintains the spirit of WVMS while embracing the long term future of racing.

“After the revitalizing effort by Cody, we are excited to work towards keeping WVMS open long term,” said new track owner Mike Hurley. “A new 3/8 mile short track will start a fresh era for the speedway, its fans and race teams. Our goal is to create a second to none racing surface that will be more cost effective for our local community”

The new short track will be constructed with ten thousand tons of premium red clay dirt sourced from a local provider. Soil tests have proved exceptional results. The track’s design will feature 75 ft wide turns and a semi-high banked configuration that will promote three- and four-wide racing, delivering an exhilarating spectacle for fans.

One of the primary reasons for the switch is the need for a more local and series-friendly facility. The larger 5/8 mile track had proven to be costly for teams and detrimental to maintain. In contrast, a new 3/8 mile track will be more cost-effective for teams, allowing for better car counts, surface control and reduced operational expenses. This shift will not only facilitate much more frequent events but also attract a broader range of racers and fans, invigorating our local racing scene.

“We believe that this new track will be a game-changer for the facility and area,” Hurley continued. “The reduced size and modern design will allow for more competitive racing and open the door for high level sanctioned events. Our goal is to make WVMS one of the most exciting and accessible tracks in the country.”

For comparison’s sake, the small 3/8 mile oval in some ways will resemble a mix between Attica Raceway and the highly-regarded Marshalltown Speedway in Iowa. These tracks’ size, banking, action and ability to provide safe racing without guardrail or containment walls will resemble the new track at WVMS. With its terraced hillside and prime location adjacent to Interstate 77, WVMS will continue to offer fans easy access while providing a stunning backdrop for a new era of racing.

As for the schedule, WVMS will look to open later this summer with a date TBA. The new track will enable an expanded slate of events and options moving forward. A full 2026 schedule will be announced in the future promising a host of exciting racing opportunities.

Since its grand opening in 1984, West Virginia Motor Speedway has been a cornerstone of dirt track racing, hosting some of the sport’s most prestigious events and showcasing the best in motorsport talent. Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Mineral Wells, WV, the track offers breathtaking views and a unique racing atmosphere. The new 3/8 mile clay oval will enhance this legacy and usher in a new era of racing excitement for a natural and true ‘Amphitheater of Action’.

For more information about the new track and upcoming events, please visit www.WVMotorSpeedway.com. You can also reach out via email at visitwvms@gmail.com or call 304-771-5051. Follow us on Facebook @VisitWVMS for the latest updates and news.