MONTEREY, Calif. Friends of Laguna Seca officials announced Mel Harder has been named president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Harder brings three decades of motorsports experience to his new role after most recently serving as team manager at Chip Ganassi Racing.

His previous positions include senior vice president and general manager of Circuit of The Americas and senior vice president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Harders experience provides him with an extensive background in hosting international, world-class events and facility management.

Our board and team are very enthusiastic about having Mel join us and his background makes him uniquely qualified to strengthen our efforts at WeatherTech Raceway and Laguna Seca Recreation Area, said Lauri Eberhart, CEO of Friends of Laguna Seca. His insight and operational expertise will play a pivotal role in facilitating our long-term commitment to the local and motorsports communities, our partners and dedicated fans, and our efforts to revitalize Laguna Seca for generations to come.

Harder will collaborate closely with Eberhart and the entire raceway team to implement Friends business model designed to enhance operational performance and develop new experiences and services for guests, motorsports series, and partners.

The vision of Friends of Laguna Seca fuels the passion and energy needed to drive this venue forward, and Im thrilled to bring my experience and enthusiasm for the world of motorsports to help lead the team, Harder said. I look forward to collaborating with our partners and the entire community to create unforgettable experiences as we continue the legacy of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as a world-class entertainment destination.