The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) regrets to announce that the remaining events of the 2026 IHRA Nitro Drag Racing Series will not be contested as originally scheduled. The remainder of the 2026 Stock Car Season Has Been cancelled as well
This was an extremely difficult decision. Following last week’s schedule update, IHRA’s management team continued evaluating the operational requirements necessary to complete the season at the level our racers deserve. It became clear we could not deliver the quality, safety, and professionalism that define IHRA competition. Rather than lower our expectations simply to complete the schedule, we believe concluding the 2026 Nitro season is the most responsible decision.
This announcement applies only to the 2026 IHRA Nitro Drag Racing Series. IHRA-owned drag racing facilities, weekly bracket racing, sportsman competition, Team Finals, and the IHRA World Championship will continue as scheduled. Racers should continue following their individual series and track communications for updates.
“Our roots started in drag racing,” said IHRA President Dustin Farthing. “The racers who fill the staging lanes every weekend are the foundation of IHRA. Our focus is on rebuilding from the ground up by investing in our member tracks, sportsman racing, and the grassroots racers who built this organization. We will not lower our event standards simply to say we completed a race.”
“This isn’t the end of national event drag racing, it’s a reset. By strengthening our foundation first, we’ll build a stronger future for our racers, tracks, sponsors, and fans.”
As for the Stock Car Series, according to IHRA, the decision came after a thorough review of its operations, resources, and long-term goals. Rather than continue with events that may not meet the expectations of racers, teams, promoters, sponsors, and fans, the organization has chosen to pause the series and invest in creating a stronger, more sustainable championship for next season.
IHRA says the coming months will be dedicated to working with competitors, track owners, promoters, and industry partners to develop a long-term plan aimed at returning in 2027 with a more competitive, well-supported, and stable Stock Car Series.
While this is undoubtedly disappointing news for drivers, teams, and fans who were looking forward to the remainder of the season, IHRA believes this reset is the best path toward ensuring the series has a stronger future.
