What Is 2001 Grand Prix of Portland

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2001 Grand Prix of Portland was a CART Series race held on June 17, 2001, at Portland International Raceway in Oregon. Cristiano da Matta won the 105-lap race driving for the Newman/Haas Racing team, leading 52 laps and finishing ahead of Michael Andretti and Paul Tracy.

Key Facts

Race held on June 17, 2001, at Portland International Raceway
Cristiano da Matta won, driving for Newman/Haas Racing
Race was part of the 2001 CART FedEx Championship Series
Da Matta led 52 of the 105 laps en route to victory
Portland International Raceway is a 1.967-mile permanent road course

Overview

The 2001 Grand Prix of Portland was a significant event in the CART FedEx Championship Series, marking the sixth round of the 2001 season. Held on June 17, 2001, at the historic Portland International Raceway in Oregon, the race attracted top open-wheel drivers competing on a challenging 1.967-mile road course.

Known for its mix of straights and tight corners, the Portland track tested both speed and precision. The race featured 23 drivers, including household names like Michael Andretti, Paul Tracy, and eventual champion Gil de Ferran, all vying for crucial championship points.

Cristiano da Matta claimed victory after leading 52 laps, marking his first career CART win and launching a breakout season.
The race covered 105 laps, totaling approximately 206.5 miles, with an average speed of about 88 mph.
Portland International Raceway, established in 1961, hosted the Grand Prix from 1984 to 2001 before a 16-year hiatus.
Da Matta drove the #7 Toyota-Lola for Newman/Haas Racing, finishing 3.2 seconds ahead of second-place Michael Andretti.
Paul Tracy finished third, driving for Team Green, maintaining his position as a top contender in the 2001 championship standings.

How It Works

The 2001 Grand Prix of Portland followed the standard CART Series race format, combining qualifying sessions, a warm-up lap, and a full-distance main event. The structure emphasized driver skill, team strategy, and mechanical reliability under pressure.

Qualifying Format:Single-car time trials determined starting positions, with each driver completing one fast lap. The fastest time secured pole position, awarded to Michael Andretti with a lap of 59.838 seconds.
Race Distance: The event spanned 105 laps around the 1.967-mile circuit, totaling just over 206 miles, typical for CART road courses.
Starting Grid: The top 23 drivers qualified, with Michael Andretti on pole, followed by Paul Tracy in second and Cristiano da Matta in third.
Points System: CART awarded points based on finishing position, with 34 points for first, 30 for second, and so on, influencing the championship race.
Weather Conditions: The race occurred under dry, overcast skies with temperatures around 68°F, ideal for consistent tire performance and minimal grip variation.
Pit Strategy: Teams used two to three pit stops for fuel and tires, with timing crucial to avoid traffic and maximize track position.

Comparison at a Glance

The 2001 Grand Prix of Portland can be better understood by comparing it to other CART events of the era, particularly in terms of track length, race duration, and competitive outcomes.

Race	Track Length	Date	Winner	Winning Margin
2001 Grand Prix of Portland	1.967 miles	June 17, 2001	Cristiano da Matta	3.2 seconds
2001 Long Beach Grand Prix	1.968 miles	April 15, 2001	Michael Andretti	0.987 seconds
2001 Toronto Molson Indy	1.755 miles	July 15, 2001	Paul Tracy	1.2 seconds
2001 Detroit Grand Prix	1.8 miles	June 10, 2001	Michael Andretti	2.1 seconds
2001 Laguna Seca Grand Prix	2.238 miles	September 2, 2001	Gil de Ferran	4.5 seconds

This comparison highlights how the Portland race was similar in length and competitiveness to other CART events that season. While not the longest or fastest track, its technical layout made it a favorite among drivers and fans alike, contributing to its legacy in American open-wheel racing.

Why It Matters

The 2001 Grand Prix of Portland was more than just another race—it had lasting implications for drivers, teams, and the future of American open-wheel racing. As one of the final CART events held in Portland before a long break, it symbolized both the peak and the challenges of the era.

Breakout Performance: Cristiano da Matta’s win signaled the arrival of a new star, who would go on to win the 2002 CART championship with seven victories.
Team Success: Newman/Haas Racing solidified its reputation as a top-tier team, winning four races in the 2001 season with da Matta and teammate Michael Andretti.
Track Legacy: The event marked the 18th and final CART race in Portland until its return in 2018, underscoring the circuit’s historical significance.
Fan Engagement: Attendance exceeded 60,000 spectators over the weekend, demonstrating strong regional support for open-wheel racing.
Media Coverage: The race was broadcast nationally on ABC Sports, reaching millions and boosting visibility for the CART series during a period of growing competition from IRL.
Technical Benchmark: The performance of Toyota’s engine in da Matta’s car highlighted manufacturer competitiveness, influencing future engine development in the series.

The 2001 Grand Prix of Portland remains a notable chapter in motorsport history, remembered for its competitive racing, dramatic finish, and role in shaping the careers of future champions.