iRacing: The Worst Tracks to Buy in 2025

When building your iRacing library, the choices you make can greatly influence your experience on the platform.

Buying the wrong tracks can lead to wasted money and frustration, especially if they’re rarely used or don’t suit your driving style.

When iRacing releases a new track, it’s tempting to jump on the hype train. However, new tracks can be a gamble. They may not appear on schedules immediately, and the lack of community feedback means you won’t know if they suit your needs. Waiting a season or two can save you from making a regrettable purchase.

Criteria for Identifying ‘Worst’ Tracks

Not all tracks are created equal. Some tracks are fantastic but rarely see participation, while others are simply unsuitable for certain racing styles.

Here are the key factors to avoid:

• Low Participation Rates: Tracks rarely included in season schedules are a poor investment for most racers.
• Unsuitability for Popular Car Classes: Certain tracks don’t cater to the needs of sports cars or GT racers.
• Poor Racing Experience: Narrow or overly technical tracks can lead to frustrating races.

Tracks to Avoid

While many tracks shine in specific scenarios, the following are often avoided by sports car racers due to their limitations.

Tracks with Low Participation Rates

• Willow Springs: Known for its simplicity, this track offers limited opportunities for competitive racing, especially in sports cars.
• Knockhill: This circuit should be free. 
• Barber Motorsports Park: While some enjoy Barber’s flow, its technical nature makes it polarizing. It’s not ideal for drivers seeking high-speed thrills.
• Misano: In the world of iRacing, Misano seems to be struggling with low participation.
• Cadwell Park: This narrow, technical track is better suited for motorcycles than sports cars. Passing is nearly impossible, leading to processional races.
• Sonoma Raceway: The challenging layout and low participation rates mean it’s often overlooked in favor of more accessible tracks.
• Sachsenring: Nürburgring, and Hockenheim are the main icons of motorsport in Germany.

How to Make Smarter Purchases

To avoid wasting money, consider these strategies:

• Follow Series Schedules: Focus on buying tracks featured in your preferred series.
• Use Tools and Resources: Tools like the iRacing track matrix or participation history databases can help identify commonly used tracks.
• Leverage Bulk Discounts: Plan purchases to take advantage of iRacing’s volume discounts.
• Engage with the Community: Forums and communities can provide valuable insights into track popularity and suitability.

While participation and cost are important, your enjoyment matters too. Some tracks, like Spa or Monza, are divisive. If a track doesn’t suit your driving style—whether it’s too technical or filled with medium-speed corners—it’s best to avoid it, even if it’s popular.

Which circuits should I add to the list?

• Remember, you can join iRacing clicking here.

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See you on the track!