description Southern 500 Overview
The Southern 500 is a historic NASCAR Cup Series stock car race held annually at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina. First run in 1950, it is widely considered one of the most prestigious and oldest superspeedway events on the NASCAR calendar. The grueling race is traditionally associated with Labor Day weekend and is known for testing the endurance of both drivers and their equipment.
help Southern 500 FAQ
Why is Darlington Raceway called the Track Too Tough to Tame?
Darlington's narrow racing line, abrasive pavement and differently shaped ends make car control unusually difficult. Drivers often brush the outside wall and acquire the scrape known as the Darlington Stripe.
Why does the Southern 500 traditionally run on Labor Day weekend?
The inaugural Southern 500 was held on Labor Day in 1950, establishing one of NASCAR's defining holiday traditions. The race moved to other dates for a period but returned to Labor Day weekend in 2015.
Why are the two ends of Darlington Raceway shaped differently?
The track was designed around a neighboring minnow pond that its owner did not want disturbed. That constraint produced an egg-shaped 1.366-mile oval with turns of noticeably different radii.
How long is the Southern 500 in laps?
The modern race covers 367 laps around Darlington Raceway, totaling just over 501 miles. Its length, tire wear and typically hot South Carolina conditions make it one of the NASCAR Cup Series' major endurance tests.
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