A Boston-based private equity firm focused on commercial real estate has confirmed a pending deal to acquire the historic racetrack
After 62 years of family ownership, California’s iconic Willow Springs International Raceway is on the verge of a major transition. A Boston-based private equity firm, CrossHarbor Capital Partners—known for its expertise in commercial real estate and “property turnarounds”—is in the final stages of acquiring the historic track.
We received a tip about the pending sale, which was later confirmed by a CrossHarbor spokesperson. “While CrossHarbor Capital cannot provide details on acquisitions before they are complete, we can confirm that a deal is pending. The team is excited to preserve the legacy and enthusiast access to one of America’s most iconic racing facilities while also setting up the property for growth and success in the future. More details will be released soon,” the statement read.
A New Era for Willow Springs
According to its website, CrossHarbor Capital Partners exclusively focuses on commercial real estate and manages a portfolio worth over $10 billion. The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes “thorough analysis, not whimsical prediction,” with a core focus on preserving capital while maximizing returns.
What this means for Willow Springs remains uncertain. The track, which opened in 1953, has long been a haven for grassroots motorsports and budget-friendly track days. While CrossHarbor’s statement suggests a commitment to maintaining its legacy, the full extent of its plans will likely become clearer once the deal is finalized.
Willow Springs was listed for sale in June 2023 following decades under the stewardship of Bill Huth and his family. Huth, who passed away in 2015, ran the track with an old-school philosophy—low costs, minimal frills, and a deep respect for motorsports history. The venue’s 600-acre property includes seven individual tracks, basic office and garage buildings, maintenance equipment, and its no-nonsense snack bar, famous for hot dogs and fried fish sandwiches.
Despite its historic significance and appearances in major films like Ford v Ferrari, Willow Springs remained an anomaly in the industry—offering some of the lowest track rental rates in the country. Renting Big Willow for a full day costs under $5,000, a fraction of what most comparable tracks charge.
What’s Next for Willow Springs?
With new ownership looming, change is inevitable. The most immediate shift is likely to be an increase in rental prices—an understandable move given rising operational costs and the track’s historically low rates.
Beyond that, the future is less clear. Will CrossHarbor continue operating all seven tracks as they are, or will it prioritize the most popular layouts like Big Willow and Streets of Willow? Will the track remain an accessible enthusiast destination, or could it transform into an exclusive motorsports resort with high-end amenities like luxury condos, private garages, and high-end accommodations?
The original real estate listing hinted at such possibilities, suggesting that buyers could explore development opportunities beyond traditional track rentals. If CrossHarbor aims to ensure Willow Springs’ viability for the next 70 years, it will need to strike a balance between modernization and maintaining the raw, accessible racing spirit that has made the track legendary.
For now, all eyes are on what happens next.
