I-96 Speedway has a rich history from its humble beginnings in 1971 by Steve Clarke. At the time, known as Clarke’s Motor Speedway, it was not only a racing facility, but Clark also hosted other outdoor entertainment events. Unfortunately, tough times plagued the facility, and it was closed in 1979. Roger and Ron Flinn reopened the facility from 1982 to 1987, calling it Ionia County Speedway. In 1987, Thomas Batista took over, and they gave it the name it is known by today. In 1988, I-96 Speedway was the first track in the state to run IMCA Modifieds.
Tom & Pat Slager gave the facility a run starting in 1994; however, in '98, Jeff Chapko took over the reins and renamed the facility to Ionia Raceway Park. Mike Mouch took over in the spring of 2004 and returned the namesake. In the spring of 2018, Jeff Dice purchased the facility and ran it through the middle of 2022. Luckily, Barry Marlow stepped up and finished out the season, running primarily specialty shows. Larry Curtiss purchased it in 2023. He wanted to make sure the facility didn't turn into some major scrap yard or other industrial operation right next door to where he grew up and still farms to the present day. Barlow leased the facility from Curtiss for the 2023 season when Larry and his management team officially took over the promoting responsibilities. “We are working hard to restore the facility and make the modern-day upgrades that everyone likes to see at a racing event.” said promoter Larry Curtiss.