We have secured an exclusive interview with the new proprietors of Willow, namely CrossHarbor Capital Partners and Singer.
Approximately 100 miles north of Los Angeles lies Willow Springs International Raceway, nestled deeply within the dust-filled expanse of California's Mojave Desert. Established in 1953, this legendary strip of asphalt came under the management of the late Bill Huth starting in 1962 until he passed away in 2015. Over the years, renowned drivers such as Carroll Shelby and Bob Bondurant honed their skills here at what became a cornerstone site in American motorsport history. In '65, before achieving victory at Le Mans with the Ford GT40, extensive testing took place at this venue. Additionally, Nigel Mansell secured the enduring lap record using a Lotus 91 back in '82. Its rich legacy continues to be intricately interwoven into the very essence of U.S. auto-racing heritage.
The previous year, when Willow Springs was put up for sale, controversy ensued.
Following months of intense deliberation about its fate, numerous interested purchasers, and reports of a staggeringly high estimated value, the circuit has been acquired by a private equity company named CrossHarbor Capital Partners. Speculations of despair, displacement, and uncertainty circulated afterward—what will become of Willow Springs? Are they planning to demolish the track and replace it with apartment complexes? Or will the venue continue to thrive? Here’s what we know:
No. Willow Springs is not shutting down. However, it will never remain unchanged.
Sam Byrne, co-founder and managing partner at CrossHarbor, stated in an interview that the track would remain open. Motor1 , and outlined several modifications planned for the iconic course.
“No, we aren’t planning any permanent closings,” Byrne informs us. “For now, we’ll implement immediate safety enhancements… We do have bigger plans, though they will take a more extended procedure to materialize.”
Byrne explained that rolling closures might occur due to track enhancements; however, Willow Springs remains dedicated to maintaining its 2025 schedule and far into the future. While Byrne couldn’t provide many details, these “ambitious plans” suggest significant changes are ahead.
The key players include: Singer Vehicle Design, which serves as both a co-owner and the lead designer for this project. Former Formula 1 racer and Le Mans champion Alex Wurz will contribute his expertise by serving as the track’s safety commissioner, enhancing current designs related to security measures. Additionally, Hart Howerton—an architectural company known for their extensive experience in interior design and resorts—will handle aspects beyond just the racing area.
Speedway Motorsports, renowned for managing events and tracks, will take charge of the operational duties at the track. This constitutes an impressive ensemble in the redesign of a road course, particularly since this particular venue has remained under family control for six decades.
Indeed, this transformation involves certain expenses. Currently, Willow Springs is recognized as an affordable choice for racing fans in Southern California. A typical track day at either Big Willow or Streets of Willow usually costs less than $200—considerably more economical compared to any other nearby tracks within a three-hour drive.
When questioned regarding the updated pricing tier for typical enthusiasts, Byrne clarified:
At present, we're looking at combining three different sectors. There'll definitely be significant focus on the public sector. Fundamentally, our aim here is to build up enthusiasm around Southern California's automotive scene. Initially, this will start with making sure there's ample public accessibility.
The 'three verticals' is industry jargon for the various main areas of the business. Essentially, Willow will expand beyond merely serving as a venue for public events, although the public sector will continue to be supported.
Byrne emphasizes that “the club level plays a crucial role,” and the circuit will continue to host clubs, track events, and amateur racing series such as Lucky Dog. Another key area CrossHarbor aims to tap into is automotive manufacturers seeking venues for performance driving programs and potential test facilities. Lastly, they want to develop upscale areas including private member lounges and premium vehicle storage spaces—a niche Singer specializes in filling.
Motor1 I also talked to Mazen Fawaz from Singer to grasp the company’s contribution to this initiative. Although Singer holds partial ownership, the exact share remains undisclosed. Their main task will involve shaping the concept behind the track’s upcoming design and function. In essence, Willow Springs is set to undergo a transformation into something more aligned with Singer’s style, mainly catering to an anticipated members-only club.
Fawaz highlighted the significance of preserving the essence of the circuit while enhancing its functionality over its current state. The community is well aware of the issues: lack of shelter, scarce parking facilities, and minimal conveniences. According to Fawaz, these aspects will be addressed, yet they aim to retain the core identity of the initial design.
He explains, 'We apply this concept to our vehicles, yet it can be adapted here as well.' He continues, 'Our aim is to organize yearly gatherings akin to those at Goodwood, allowing our passion for motor sports to truly stand out.'
The comprehensive strategy, nonetheless, remains unfinished. Byrne did not provide extensive specifics, but mentioned that Wurz has been focusing on revamping the circuit’s safety measures since last fall; however, the extent of their alignment with FIA standards is still under discussion. Meanwhile, Singer has been brainstorming ideas about how the track might appear and function, although concrete details cannot yet be disclosed. What we do understand is that Willow’s future is assured, and numerous modifications lie ahead. It is accurate that most previous occupants were asked to leave due to the present owners' decisions. According to Byrne, many former renters won’t return because they lacked legitimate leases, adding, “We hope to bring some of them back as these individuals are ones we wish to support.”
Nevertheless, amidst the convoluted corporate jargon, an uplifting message comes through with this fresh leadership: Maintain the essence of the course, avoid destroying what defines it as Willow Springs.
To clarify, being a local resident myself, I can attest that the track requires improvement. Since Bill Huth passed away, it has struggled, operating with inadequate safety measures and poor facilities. This situation was not sustainable long-term. For instance, just last year, a driver lost their life during a testing session. Additionally, at least one incident occurs every weekend where a minor mistake leads to significant damage to a vehicle. The track at Willow is inherently risky.
Every communication from those involved shows respect for the track’s heritage and aims at improving it without completely transforming its identity. Byrne, who is both an enthusiastic driver and a car collector with a deep passion for Willow Springs, explicitly stated his desire not to replicate something like the Thermal Club.
It appears CrossHarbor acquired Willow primarily as a personal endeavor involving Byrne to ensure the racetrack remained operational amid significant challenges. The company has earned recognition for both its vehicles and meticulous attention to detail. Byrne elaborated, “This venture won’t involve our private equity operations; everything will be funded through long-term capital. It holds great personal significance for me, and we’re engaging individuals who share similar passions—ardent fans of motor sports...” Furthermore, their strategy aims at broadening access to the facility instead of restricting entry solely to high society members.
In their own words, "CrossHarbor and Singer have no intention of selling Willow Springs at any point."
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