Auto racing

Auto racing (also known as car racing, motor racing or automobile racing) is a motorsport involving the racing of automobiles for competition. It is one of the world's most watched televised sports.

History

The first prearranged match race of two self-powered road vehicles over a prescribed route occurred at 4:30 A.M. on August 30, 1867, between Ashton-under-Lyne and Old Trafford, a distance of eight miles. It was won by the carriage of Isaac Watt Boulton.

Auto racing has been popular since the invention of the automobile. The first organized event was a race in 1894 from Paris to Rouen, France. The first race in the United States took place in 1895, from Chicago to Evanston, Illinois.

Types of auto racing

There are various types of auto racing; these include:

• Formula racing: This is a set of classes of motor vehicles, with their wheels outside, and not contained by, any bodywork of their vehicle. The most prestigious and well-known variety of formula racing is Formula One.

• Sports car racing: These are races that emphasize endurance, reliability, and strategy, over pure speed. The most famous race in this category is the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

• Stock car racing: This is a form of automobile racing found mainly in the United States. The most well-known championship in this category is the NASCAR Cup Series.

• Drag racing: This is a type of racing in which two contestants race down a straight path from a standing start.

• Rallying: This is a form of auto racing that takes place on public or private roads with modified production or specially built road-legal cars.

Safety

Safety in auto racing has evolved significantly over the years. Helmets, fire suits, HANS devices, roll cages, and fire extinguishers are all part of the safety equipment required in various racing series. The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for many auto racing events, and sets the standards for safety.

See also

• List of auto racing tracks
• Motorcycle racing
• Kart racing
• List of fatal accidents in motor racing