Willow Springs International Raceway Revitalised by CrossHarbor and Singer
Willow Springs International Raceway, America's oldest permanent road course, has entered an exciting new era. An affiliate of CrossHarbor Capital Partners, in collaboration with Singer Vehicle Design, has acquired the iconic Kern County circuit from its long-time owners, the Huth family. Their purchase safeguards Willow Springs’ storied history while propelling it forward as a premier destination for motoring enthusiasts.
CrossHarbor, an alternative investment management firm renowned for its diverse portfolio of commercial real estate and resort residential developments, recently closed escrow on the property. The new ownership remains dedicated to honouring Willow Springs’ racing heritage and will invest significantly to upgrade the facility and strengthen its reputation as a top-tier automotive venue.
“We are thrilled to embark on a new era for this cherished circuit,” said Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners. “Our goal is to serve the community for decades, creating a welcoming environment where car aficionados can gather to celebrate their shared passion for Willow Springs and motorsport. Alongside Singer, we partner with respected names in the automotive industry, striving to deliver a definitive Californian driving experience.”
Public access will remain a priority, with Willow Springs continuing to host public and private events. Existing tracks, including all three road courses, will stay open to enthusiasts and undergo enhancements to boost safety. The facility will also continue offering karting, ATV courses, and driver instruction, catering to various interests.
In addition to its stake in ownership, Singer will collaborate with CrossHarbor to establish its first private members’ club, which is open to Singer clients and other like-minded car lovers. This exclusive opportunity will allow drivers to bring their vehicles for track days and related activities, leveraging Willow Springs’ convenient location near one of the world’s largest luxury and sports car markets.
Singer’s Chief Strategy Officer, Mazen Fawaz, remarked: “Willow Springs forms a vital piece of California’s motorsport heritage for any automotive enthusiast. We at Singer have enjoyed two decades of track days, racing, and development at Willow Springs. By joining forces with CrossHarbor, we are ensuring that the circuit remains safe and continues to be a beacon of Californian car culture for the next seventy years. We take our custodial role seriously, and our partners are perfectly poised to drive its future success.”
CrossHarbor has already begun a thorough evaluation of Willow Springs’ extensive facilities, initially focusing on improving track conditions and safety features by adding asphalt, kerbs, and gravel to run-off areas. Plans include preserving the raceway’s history while upgrading amenities, enhancing food and beverage offerings, and refining the driving experience.
Intent on a long-term vision, CrossHarbor and Singer have assembled passionate motorsport devotees as co-owners, united in a multigenerational commitment to maintaining and enhancing Willow Springs. Their roster of expert consultants includes:
• Former Formula 1 driver, Le Mans winner, and head of Wurz Design Alex Wurz, who will optimise track design and safety.
• Sonoma Raceway, a subsidiary of Speedway Motorsports, is known for its leadership in motorsports entertainment and venue management and will oversee track operations to establish a world-class racing environment.
• Hart Howerton, a globally recognised master planner, is responsible for developing off-track elements to enrich Willow Springs’ overall customer and member experience.
