Singer Vehicle Design has teamed up with CrossHarbor Capital Partners to acquire America’s oldest permanent road course, Willow Springs in California.
Long-time owners the Huth family put the facility up for sale in summer 2024, and it has now been acquired by ‘an affiliate’ of CrossHarbor Capital Partners and Singer. In a statement, Willow Springs said the new ownership sees public access as a key aspect of the circuit’s success, and it will continue to host public and private events. All existing tracks will remain open to the public and will be enhanced for improved safety. A variety of track layouts, including karting, ATV and driver instruction, will continue to be available.
Singer will also be partnering with CrossHarbor to create a members’ club, which will be open to Singer clients and other enthusiasts for track days and further experiences.
“Willow Springs is an important part of California’s motor sport heritage for enthusiasts, and everyone with an automotive obsession,” said Singer’s chief strategy officer Mazen Fawaz. “Singer has two decades of track days, racing and development at Willow’s circuits. We are delighted to help make sure that it’s in safe hands and can be an even more impressive part of California’s car culture for the next 70 years. Its custodianship is a responsibility we are not taking lightly, and our partners could not be better suited to see it through.”
CrossHarbor has started evaluating Willow Springs’ facilities, and the initial focus will be on track and safety improvements, including adding more asphalt and kerbs, and improving run-off areas with levelling and gravel. Food and beverage offerings, plus maintaining Willow Springs’ heritage, also form part of the plans.
Former Formula 1 driver, Le Mans winner and track designer Alex Wurz will be responsible for track design, while Speedway Motorsports’ subsidiary Sonoma Raceway will oversee track operations. Off-track elements, and customer and member experiences, will be curated by Hart Howerton.
“We are thrilled to begin a new chapter with such a beloved facility,” said Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners. “We are committed to serving the community for decades to come, and to creating a space where all members of the car community can collectively share their enthusiasm for Willow Springs and motor sport. Along with Singer, we are collaborating with recognised and respected names within the auto industry, and we are excited to partner with them in pursuit of this definitive California experience.”
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