When it comes to motorsport, high-profile events like Formula 1 Grand Prix races, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Indianapolis 500 get a lot of attention, and for good reason. However, there’s a world of lesser-known but equally thrilling events that die-hard fans and newcomers alike should explore. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping rally, an extreme endurance race, or a unique spectacle, here are some of the most underrated motorsport events from around the globe that deserve a place on your radar.
Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy)—United Kingdom
Often called one of the most dangerous motorsport events in the world, the Isle of Man TT is a time-trial motorcycle race that takes place annually on the Isle of Man, an island between England and Ireland. This unique event involves riders navigating narrow, twisting roads with little to no room for error. Averaging speeds of over 130 mph on open roads lined with trees, stone walls, and houses, the Isle of Man TT is a heart-stopping event for thrill-seekers and a testament to rider skill and courage.
Why it’s underrated: While the TT is well-known within motorcycling circles, its limited coverage means that many racing fans have yet to witness its intense atmosphere and unique structure. There’s simply nothing else like it in the world of motorsport.
Bathurst 12 Hour – Australia
Held at the iconic Mount Panorama Circuit in New South Wales, the Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race attracts some of the world’s best GT drivers and teams. The circuit itself is one of the most challenging, with its combination of high-speed straights, elevation changes, and blind corners. This is an event where manufacturers, teams, and drivers truly test their endurance and technical skill, racing for 12 hours straight.
Why it’s underrated: Despite being one of the toughest GT endurance races, the Bathurst 12 Hour remains overshadowed by bigger events like Le Mans. The event, however, offers a unique viewing experience with incredible scenic shots and nail-biting action that rivals the world’s best endurance races.
Goodwood Festival of Speed, United Kingdom
Part race, part celebration, the Goodwood Festival of Speed brings together cars and drivers from every era and category in motorsport. The main event is a hill climb where all types of vehicles—from historic race cars to modern hypercars—compete up a narrow track winding through the English countryside. There are also exhibitions, interactive displays, and the chance to see legendary cars and drivers up close.
Why it’s underrated: Goodwood isn’t just a race; it’s an interactive motorsport museum. While it’s not as competition-focused as other events, the festival atmosphere and the rare cars on display make it a must-see for enthusiasts. Plus, it offers a rare chance to see cars from across motorsport history in action, rather than just on display.
King of the Hammers, United States
Held in the desert terrain of Johnson Valley, California, King of the Hammers is one of the toughest off-road races in the world, combining rock crawling and high-speed desert racing. Drivers tackle steep rock climbs, deep sand, and extreme terrain that tests both machine and driver endurance. Known for its brutal conditions and challenging course, this event has become an iconic race in the off-road and off-roading world.
Why it’s underrated: While off-road racing has a dedicated fan base, King of the Hammers is lesser-known among mainstream motorsport fans. However, its unique blend of rock crawling and desert racing makes it a one-of-a-kind spectacle. Watching drivers navigate the unforgiving landscape is a true display of engineering and human grit.
Targa Newfoundland, Canada
This weeklong road rally in Newfoundland, Canada, is North America’s only tarmac rally event. The Targa Newfoundland runs through small towns, over winding coastal roads, and across Newfoundland’s stunning landscapes, challenging drivers to handle a wide range of conditions. The rally attracts a mix of professionals and amateur racers, creating a thrilling experience where almost anyone can participate.
Why it’s underrated: Targa Newfoundland combines the best of rally racing with the scenic beauty of eastern Canada, yet it remains largely unknown outside rally circles. The event allows drivers to take part in a true road rally on public roads, making it an experience that’s as much about the journey as it is about the race itself.
Classic 24 Hours at Daytona, United States
The Classic 24 Hour at Daytona brings vintage racing cars from past decades back to life on the famous Daytona International Speedway. Racing categories are divided by decade, allowing fans to witness historic racing machines—from the 60s up to the 90s—compete on the legendary Daytona road course. It’s a tribute to motorsport history, with cars that defined past eras roaring once again on the track.
Why it’s underrated: This event is a paradise for fans of classic and historic cars, but it often goes unnoticed by mainstream audiences focused on contemporary races. The nostalgia and chance to witness iconic cars in action make it a hidden gem worth exploring, especially for fans of vintage racing culture.
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, United States
Known as “The Race to the Clouds,” Pikes Peak is an intense hill climb in Colorado, where drivers race up a 12.42-mile course with 156 turns to an elevation of over 14,000 feet. With the rapid altitude gain, vehicles lose performance, while drivers experience lower oxygen levels, making this an extreme test of both man and machine. It’s one of the oldest motorsport events in the U.S. and has recently attracted electric vehicles that thrive in its thin air.
Why it’s underrated: Although Pikes Peak has an incredible history and stunning scenery, it doesn’t receive the mainstream attention it deserves. Watching drivers take on this winding mountain ascent with hairpin turns and steep drops is a truly thrilling sight, and it’s unlike any other hill climb.
Why You Should Explore These Events
Each of these underrated motorsport events has its own unique characteristics and presents a distinct challenge for drivers and teams. Whether it’s the vintage vibes of the Classic 24 Hour, the grit of King of the Hammers, or the extreme thrills of the Isle of Man TT, these races offer experiences that you won’t find in traditional circuits or on primetime broadcasts.
For fans of motorsport looking to deepen their appreciation, these events offer fresh and exhilarating perspectives. Plus, they remind us that motorsport is more than just big-name races; it’s about the diversity of challenges, the love for competition, and the ever-present pursuit of speed and skill in whatever form that may take.
So, if you’re seeking to add some fresh events to your viewing schedule or even to plan a motorsport-centred travel adventure, consider diving into the lesser-known world of these hidden racing gems. You might just discover a new favourite!
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