The roar of engines, the screech of tires, and the thrill of close-quarters racing – it’s time once again for the highly anticipated Toyota/Save Mart 350. As a cornerstone event in the NASCAR Cup Series, the 2024 edition promises to deliver another weekend of unforgettable action at the iconic Sonoma Raceway. This guide provides everything you need to know about the upcoming 2024 Toyota/save Mart 350, ensuring you’re fully prepared for race day.
The Toyota/Save Mart 350 is more than just another race on the NASCAR calendar; it’s a tradition. Held annually at Sonoma Raceway in California’s scenic wine country, this event consistently draws massive crowds and showcases some of the most technically demanding racing of the season. Unlike the high-banked ovals that dominate much of the NASCAR schedule, Sonoma is a challenging road course, testing drivers’ skills in braking, cornering, and navigating its twists and turns. The race’s name reflects the long-standing partnership between two prominent brands: Toyota, a leading automotive manufacturer, and Save Mart, a major supermarket chain in the Western United States. Their collaboration has elevated this race into a must-watch spectacle for motorsports enthusiasts.
Mark your calendars! The 2024 Toyota/Save Mart 350 is scheduled for Sunday, June 9, 2024. Race day activities will kick off earlier in the weekend, with practice and qualifying sessions leading up to the main event. The green flag is expected to wave at 3:30 PM ET, bringing high-octane competition to screens and trackside seats alike. For those planning to attend in person, Sonoma Raceway is located in Sonoma, California, offering a fantastic backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards. Tickets are available through the Sonoma Raceway website and various online ticket vendors, with options ranging from general admission to premium seating and hospitality packages. If you can’t make it to the track, you can catch all the live action on FOX, the official broadcast partner of NASCAR, or through streaming services that carry FOX channels. Radio coverage will also be available on PRN Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Image of a NASCAR car racing through a turn at Sonoma Raceway
Alt text: Kyle Larson navigating a sharp turn at Sonoma Raceway during the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Cup Series race.
As the 2024 Toyota/Save Mart 350 approaches, anticipation is building around which drivers and teams are poised to contend for victory. Keep an eye on drivers like Kyle Larson, known for his road course prowess and past success at Sonoma. Martin Truex Jr., another seasoned veteran and former winner of this race, is always a threat on road courses. Representing Toyota, teams like Joe Gibbs Racing and 23XI Racing are expected to bring strong contenders to the track. Other notable drivers who typically perform well on road courses include Chase Elliott, AJ Allmendinger, and Ross Chastain, making for a highly competitive field. The race is often unpredictable, with strategy playing a crucial role, especially concerning pit stops and tire management on the demanding Sonoma circuit.
Sonoma Raceway itself is a significant factor in what makes the Toyota/Save Mart 350 so compelling. Opened in 1968, this 2.52-mile road course features 12 turns, elevation changes, and a variety of corner types that challenge drivers in different ways. The “Carousel,” a long, sweeping downhill turn, and the “ esses,” a series of quick, alternating turns, are particularly iconic and require precision and bravery. Passing opportunities can be limited, making qualifying position and restarts incredibly important. The track surface is also known to be abrasive, leading to tire wear and adding another layer of complexity to race strategy. Drivers must find a balance between aggression and conservation to make it to the finish line with a chance to win.
Toyota’s involvement in NASCAR and specifically at Sonoma Raceway is deeply rooted. As a manufacturer, Toyota has consistently invested in NASCAR, providing engines and support to numerous teams. Their commitment to the sport is reflected in the race’s title sponsorship. Historically, Toyota drivers have enjoyed success at Sonoma, with multiple wins in the Save Mart 350. This year, Toyota will be looking to add to their win tally and showcase the performance and reliability of their vehicles on the challenging road course. The Toyota teams often bring specific setups and strategies tailored for Sonoma, highlighting the importance of manufacturer support in NASCAR competition.
Image of the Toyota logo at Sonoma Raceway
Alt text: Toyota signage prominently displayed at the start/finish line of Sonoma Raceway during the Save Mart 350 race weekend.
Save Mart Supermarkets, the title sponsor, has been a long-time supporter of this NASCAR event, solidifying their presence in the Northern California market and connecting with racing fans. Their sponsorship extends beyond just the race name, often including fan engagement activities, promotions, and community involvement throughout the race weekend. Save Mart’s commitment reflects the strong regional appeal of NASCAR and the opportunity for brands to connect with a passionate fan base. The partnership between Save Mart and Toyota, along with NASCAR, creates a powerful synergy that benefits both the sport and the local community.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Sonoma Raceway or settling in to watch from home, the 2024 Toyota/Save Mart 350 is set to be an unmissable event. For attending in person, check the Sonoma Raceway website for the full weekend schedule, ticket options, and fan zone activities. Ensure you plan for travel and accommodation in advance, as the race weekend draws significant crowds to the Sonoma area. For TV viewers, set your reminders for Sunday, June 9th at 3:30 PM ET on FOX. Get ready to witness thrilling road course racing as the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series battle it out for victory at the 2024 Toyota/Save Mart 350!
