WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Salinas, California, will officially dedicate and name the "Zanardi Corkscrew" on Friday, September 4 to honor the late Alex Zanardi and commemorate the 30th anniversary of "The Pass," which became one of the defining moments of his career.

The ceremony will bring together special guests from throughout Zanardi's career, including Chip Ganassi, Max Papis, Doug Boles, and other INDYCAR legends, as the motorsports community reflects on the moment that forever connected Zanardi to Laguna Seca, track officials said. Plans for a commemorative marker recognizing the Zanardi Corkscrew will be unveiled during the ceremony.

The dedication also recognizes Zanardi's contributions to motorsports and the lasting impact he made on competitors and fans around the world. On September 8, 1996, during the final lap of the CART season finale at Laguna Seca, Zanardi, driving the #4 Target Chip Ganassi Honda Reynard, made a daring move on Bryan Herta entering the Corkscrew. It was the final lap of the 1996 season and resulted in a win.

The maneuver became known simply as "The Pass." Thirty years later, it remains one of the most recognized moments in the history of Laguna Seca and American open-wheel racing. The image of Zanardi attacking the Corkscrew with characteristic determination and fearlessness has become inseparable from the legacy of the circuit itself, track officials said.

But Zanardi's legacy extends far beyond a single corner or a single race. A two-time CART champion and winner of 15 CART races, Zanardi became one of the most popular drivers of his generation through his talent, personality and unmistakable passion for competition.

Following a devastating 2001 accident at the Lausitzring that resulted in the loss of both of his legs, Zanardi made an extraordinary return to racing and later became a champion handcyclist and Paralympic gold medalist. His perseverance, competitive spirit and ability to inspire others transcended motorsports, earning admiration around the world.

The Corkscrew is one of motorsports' most recognizable and technically demanding turns, dropping dramatically in elevation as drivers crest the blind Turn 8 before plunging downhill through Turn 8A. For generations of racers and fans, it has been the signature feature of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Beginning September 4, it will also serve as a permanent tribute to a racer whose courage, determination and indomitable spirit left an enduring mark on the sport.

The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES Championship Finale at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca sets the stage for a thrilling Labor Day weekend on the legendary Monterey Peninsula circuit.

For more information, visit weathertechraceway.com.

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment | Chris Owens