Brian Flynn Takes the Helm as President of Sonoma Raceway, Driving New Momentum

Strengthening the Momentum in Motorsports: Brian Flynn as President

Brian Flynn's promotion to the presidency of Sonoma Raceway marks a significant milestone for the prestigious motorsports venue in Northern California. Announced by Speedway Motorsports on October 26, 2026, this elevation follows more than three years during which Flynn has skillfully enhanced the business performance of Sonoma Raceway, the largest motorsports facility in the region.

In his previous roles as Executive Vice President and General Manager, Flynn was pivotal in amplifying the raceway's reputation not only as a thrilling destination for racing fans but also as a sought-after locale for corporate events and tourism, nestled in the heart of California's renowned wine country. The raceway hosts an array of signature events, including the historic Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Cup Series race, the prestigious Ferrari Challenge North America, the thrilling DENSO NHRA Nationals, and the exclusive Velocity Invitational. Under Flynn's guidance, the venue has not only maintained its status as a beloved motorsports hub but has also achieved two consecutive Speedway Motorsports Acceleration Awards, a testament to its improved financial performance.

Marcus Smith, President and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, praised Flynn’s leadership, stating, “Brian has built a team that is operating at the highest-level hosting internationally recognized motorsports and high-performance automotive events.” Flynn has also curated a unique hospitality experience at the venue's exclusive Turn 11, setting it apart as a premium spot amongst global brands.

Sonoma Raceway serves as a haven where fans can revel in the rush of the races while enjoying the tranquility of wine country. With an engaging atmosphere, Flynn's leadership has created an environment where both fans and corporate clients can thrive, striking a balance between leisure and excitement. He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to enhance visitor experiences while maintaining a disciplined approach to facility management and team leadership.

In addition to overseeing Sonoma Raceway, Flynn has also taken on a leadership position at Willow Springs Raceway in Southern California, further showcasing his commitment to the motorsport community. He remains active in the San Francisco area, serving on the board of directors for the North Bay Leadership Council and the Sonoma chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities.

With an extensive background of 30 years in motorsports and business management, Flynn's journey has equipped him with the experience necessary to take Sonoma Raceway to new heights. He joined the venue in 2023 after serving as a consultant since 2020 on high-performance driving, karting, and hospitality experiences. His tenure as CEO of Petty Holdings LLC and other roles within the Richard Petty Driving Experience highlights his knack for steering organizations to success, particularly in the automotive sector.

Flynn’s commitment to children with serious medical conditions, demonstrated through his long-standing involvement with the Victory Junction Gang Camp, showcases the depth of his character and community engagement.

Educationally, Flynn holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Pennsylvania, where he excelled as a two-sport varsity athlete in football and baseball. His accomplishments have earned him a place in the Penn Baseball Hall of Fame.

About Speedway Motorsports

Speedway Motorsports is a prominent entity in motorsports entertainment marketing, promotion, and sponsorship throughout the United States. It owns and operates prestigious racing venues, including the likes of Bristol Motor Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway, among others. Their operations extend beyond events to merchandise, racing car manufacturing, and radio programming, reflecting their broad influence in the industry.

About Sonoma Raceway

Sonoma Raceway, set in Northern California’s picturesque Sonoma Valley, is a premier motorsports destination, featuring a competitive 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course and a state-of-the-art drag strip. It annually hosts high-profile racing events, attracting motorsport enthusiasts and tourists alike. With a wide array of activities, including driving courses and corporate outings, Sonoma Raceway continues to solidify its reputation as a leading force in the motorsport arena.