As long as there has been competitive racing, there has been a debate over who is the best of the best. Can an open wheel driver beat a stock car pilot? What about the guys who drive late models or sprint cars?
The debate will never be settled to a definitive degree, but the International Race of Champions comes closer than any series in determining an overall driving “champion.”
Over the years, IROC titlists have represented a Who’s Who of motorsports: Dale Earnhardt, A.J. Foyt, Bobby Unser, Mario Andretti and Bobby Allison are a few. And in its quarter century of existence, the series has earned rave reviews from the pilots who have competed in it.
“No one ever had to sell me on the concept,” Andretti says. “IROC is something special and certainly something unique. It’s fun to be around people you might not otherwise get a chance to know. But, believe me, at the track it’s all business. We’re all out trying to do our own thing.”
Cale Yarborough believes the series lives up to its name.
“Because of what it represents, to me, being invited to compete in IROC is the highest honor any driver can receive,” Yarborough says.
IROC, celebrating its 25th anniversary this season, is designed to determine a champion based entirely on the skill of the competitors. The cars are identical in setup, and drivers aren’t allowed to make changes to the suspension, handling or any other parts of the Pontiac Firebirds except for steering wheel adjustments, seat position and safety belts.
