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  National Hot rod association

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www.nhra.com

photos courtesy of NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

 

SONOMA, Calif. -- Friday's results after the first two of four rounds of qualifying for the 38th annual DENSO Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge at Sonoma Raceway, 11th of 20 events in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Saturday for Sunday's final eliminations.


 

Top Fuel -- 1. Doug Kalitta, 3.714 seconds, 337.07 mph; 2. Shawn Langdon, 3.714, 336.49; 3. Tony Stewart, 3.736, 333.91; 4. Tony Schumacher, 3.744, 293.73; 5. Maddi Gordon, 3.751, 336.49; 6. Jasmine Salinas, 3.751, 331.77; 7. Josh Hart, 3.763, 336.82; 8. Leah Pruett, 3.772, 327.98; 9. Antron Brown, 3.784, 324.59; 10. Billy Torrence, 3.803, 328.06; 11. Shawn Reed, 3.850, 315.34; 12. Will Smith, 3.893, 275.73; 13. Justin Ashley,

4.122, 225.82; 14. Clay Millican, 4.203, 206.16.


 

Funny Car -- 1. Jordan Vandergriff, Chevy Camaro, 3.849, 332.43; 2. Jack Beckman, Camaro, 3.873, 333.16; 3. Daniel Wilkerson, Ford Mustang, 3.899, 327.66; 4. Ron Capps, Toyota GR Supra, 3.900, 330.07; 5. Chad Green, Mustang, 3.903, 321.12; 6. Spencer Hyde, Mustang, 3.915, 325.92; 7. Alexis DeJoria, Camaro, 3.917, 329.26; 8. Matt Hagan, Dodge Charger, 3.934, 321.81; 9. J.R. Todd, GR Supra, 3.939, 332.10; 10. Dave Richards, Mustang, 3.966, 329.50; 11. Hunter Green, Charger, 4.006, 320.97; 12. Jeff Arend, Charger, 4.019, 315.27; 13. Jason Rupert, Mustang, 4.048, 316.67; 14. Austin Prock, Mustang, 4.050, 316.52; 15. Tim Gibbons, Charger, 4.081, 297.55; 16. Paul Lee, Charger, 4.208, 219.79. 

Not Qualified: 17. Dylan Winefsky, 4.450, 196.93; 18. Cruz Pedregon, 4.452, 191.35.


 

Pro Stock -- 1. Chris Vang, Chevy Camaro, 6.498, 209.30; 2. Cody Anderson, Camaro, 6.499, 210.54; 3. Erica Enders, Camaro, 6.503, 211.33; 4. Matt Hartford, Camaro, 6.511, 211.30; 5. Shane Tucker, Camaro, 6.516, 212.16; 6. Matt Latino, Camaro, 6.516, 210.18; 7. Dallas Glenn, Camaro, 6.517, 210.97; 8. Greg Stanfield, Camaro, 6.520, 211.00; 9. Aaron Stanfield, Camaro, 6.520, 210.21; 10. Eric Latino, Camaro, 6.520, 210.18; 11. Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.522, 210.21; 12. Stephen Bell, Camaro, 6.530, 210.54; 13. Jeg Coughlin, Camaro, 6.533, 210.21; 14. Troy Coughlin Jr., Camaro, 6.549, 210.14; 15. Kenny Delco, Camaro, 6.570, 209.82; 16. Mason McGaha, Camaro, 6.583, 210.57. 

Not Qualified: 17. Joey Grose, 6.609, 208.62; 18. Alan Prusiensky, 6.749, 204.26.
 

 

NHRA COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP KICKS OFF AT INAUGURAL DODGE NHRA GREAT LAKES NATIONALS PRESENTED BY MOPAR

 

MARTIN, Mich. (Aug. 13, 2026) – The 2026 NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs will see a new element of competition as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to US 131 Motorsports Park for the first time for the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR on Sept. 18-20.

 

The highly-anticipated debut at US 131 Motorsports Park will mark the opening race of the Countdown to the Championship, as the sport’s top drivers begin their six-race pursuit of an NHRA world title. With the points reset following the regular-season finale in Indy, every round and every point becomes critical during the six-race playoffs.

 

The top contenders in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will arrive at the standout facility looking to make a strong opening statement at the Countdown’s first race in a region loaded with motorsports fans.

 

The Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR is the 15th of 20 events during the 2026 NHRA season and there’s plenty of excitement brewing for NHRA’s national event debut at US 131 Motorsports Park. Fans will get a thrilling glimpse at 12,000-horsepower, 340-mph nitro machines all weekend, including two rounds of qualifying on both Friday and Saturday, leading into eliminations on Sunday.

 

With the added intensity of the playoffs, it makes for a can’t-miss weekend in Martin as NHRA continues its 75th anniversary celebration. The 2026 Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR will also be broadcast on FS1, with elimination coverage beginning at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 20.

 

The Top Fuel ranks have been dominated throughout 2026 by reigning world champion Doug Kalitta and current points leader Shawn Langdon, the pair of stellar teammates from Michigan-based Kalitta Motorsports. Others to watch will be longtime Dodge driver Leah Pruett, as well as her husband and motorsports legend Tony Stewart, rookie sensation Maddi Gordon, Josh Hart, Justin Ashley and Antron Brown.

 

Matt Hagan has won each of his four world titles behind the wheel of a Dodge Funny Car. He’s currently in the championship mix in the loaded category, a group that includes current points leader and three-time champ Ron Capps, Kalitta Motorsports driver J.R. Todd, Funny Car rising star Jordan Vandergriff, his John Force Racing teammate Jack Beckman and reigning back-to-back world champion Austin Prock.

 

Six-time Pro Stock world champ Greg Anderson and KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn have battled for the points lead all season. The duo split wins at two of NHRA’s new facilities, taking victories in Valdosta and Maryland. They will be up against the likes of Aaron Stanfield, six-time champ Erica Enders, Matt Hartford and Greg Stanfield.

 

Reigning Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Richard Gadson earned wins in Gainesville and Norwalk, while his teammate and two-time champion Gaige Herrera won in Charlotte and Bristol. Matt and Angie Smith each have wins this season, while other standouts include John Hall, Steve Johnson, Chase Van Sant and Jianna Evaristo.

 

The Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR will also feature racing in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown.

 

Race fans at US 131 Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. They are also invited to congratulate the event winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday to crown the first-ever national event winners in Martin. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere.

 

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 12 and 2:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Sept. 18 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 12 and 2:30 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 20. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday before eliminations action at 2 p.m.

 

To purchase tickets to the 2026 Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information about the NHRA, visit www.nhra.com.

 

SUPER.COM NAMED OFFICIAL DISCOUNT APP OF NHRA

 

INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 13, 2026) – NHRA officials announced today that Super.com, the all-in-one app that helps everyday Americans save, earn and put more money in their pockets, has been named the Official Discount App of NHRA.

 

Already a sponsor of Rick Ware Racing (RWR) and its Top Fuel driver lineup of Clay Millican and Tony Schumacher, Super.com is augmenting its team partnership with this new league relationship that will feature onsite activation at select NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series events.

 

Designed to help consumers spend less and save more, Super.com saves users on hotels and travel, provides cash back on everyday purchases, and rewards its Super+ members with premium access and experiences.

 

“Our partnership with Rick Ware Racing introduced us to the energy and passion that define NHRA, and we immediately saw an opportunity to do more,” said Dave Rodriguez, Super.com head of partnerships. “Becoming the Official Discount App of NHRA allows us to connect directly with fans, making it easier for them to save money on the things they already do every day, whether they're booking travel, shopping online or heading to the racetrack. This builds on the work we've already begun with RWR.”

 

Along with onsite activation at national events, Super.com will receive coverage on NHRA.tv and during NHRA on FOX broadcasts, providing a significant platform to showcase its growing all-in-one app to the NHRA fanbase.

 

Super.com has established a strong presence with Millican and Schumacher throughout NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. Millican is one of NHRA’s most popular drivers and has eight career NHRA Top Fuel victories, while Schumacher is Top Fuel’s most successful driver with eight world championships and 88 career victories.

 

“We're excited to welcome Super.com to the NHRA family as the Official Discount App of NHRA,” said Brad Gerber, NHRA vice president of sales and chief development officer. “It’s an innovative brand delivering great value to our fans, and this partnership will enhance the NHRA fan experience even more. Super.com has developed a strong presence in motorsports through its partnership with Rick Ware Racing, and we're thrilled to welcome them to NHRA.”

 

For more information on Super.com, visit www.Super.com. For more information on NHRA, including the full 2026 75th anniversary schedule, visit www.nhra.com.

 

***

 

 

 

 

 

RACE FOR REGULAR SEASON TITLE IN NHRA MISSION FOODS DRAG RACING SERIES DOWN TO TWO EVENTS

 

INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 12, 2026) – Just two races remain in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series regular season, making it the perfect time to check out the points race for the regular season championship during NHRA’s 75th anniversary campaign.


 

With nearly $400,000 overall on the line to the drivers who finish first in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle, there’s plenty on the line next weekend in Brainerd and then to close out the regular season at the world’s biggest drag race, the prestigious Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.


 

Things have gotten ultra-tight in several categories, making Indy a must-see weekend to see who ends up on top.


 

TOP FUEL

What seemed like a Shawn Langdon runaway has quickly become a toss-up for the $150,000 prize. Langdon was on a torrid early-season streak, winning three races in a row at one point, but that hot streak has now shifted to his Kalitta Motorsports teammate, reigning world champion Doug Kalitta.


 

In a scene eerily similar to last year when Kalitta got hot mid-season and rode that to a second world title in three years, the veteran again appears to be peaking perfectly.


 

Kalitta won back-to-back races in Sonoma and Seattle, pulling to within a mere five points of his teammate. The duo has been dominant all year – especially when factoring in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge – and it could literally come down to the final run in Indy, which would make for quite the scenario at The Big Go.

FUNNY CAR

Without question, Funny Car will provide the wildest finish to crown the $150,000 regular season champion in Indy. A whopping four drivers are within just 64 points – or just more than two rounds in Indy – of leader Ron Capps, who like Langdon, has watched a comfortable points lead wither over the past two races.


 

He’s just 37 points ahead of Jack Beckman, who has been remarkably consistent in recent months, and 42 ahead of J.R. Todd, who rolled to the win in Seattle.


 

Jordan Vandergriff, who dominated in Sonoma, is only 54 points back, while four-time champ Matt Hagan trails Capps by 64 points. It’s going to make for a thrilling two-race stretch, as any of the five is capable of winning in Brainerd and Indy. Should all five stay close heading to Indy, we could be able to witness one of those classic Indy finishes on raceday.

PRO STOCK

This remains the Dallas Glenn and Greg Anderson show and it may remain a coin flip to the end. Anderson jumped back on top with his Seattle victory, but it’s just an eight-point difference between Glenn, the reigning regular season and overall world champion, and the six-time champ.


 

Greg Stanfield has surged to third and is 158 points back, but this likely remains a two-horse race at Indy.


 

Being that it’s basically a tie between the pair of KB Titan Racing teammates, this could come down to whoever goes further on raceday on Labor Day. Anderson has always run well at The Big Go, but Glenn, who is looking for his first Indy win, surely loves the sound of a second straight regular season title.

PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE

It’s been a minute since we’ve last seen the full Pro Stock Motorcycle category, which doesn’t return until Indy. Richard Gadson won in June in Norwalk, giving the reigning world champ a healthy 83-point lead over teammate Gaige Herrera.


 

That will be hard to overcome in one race, putting Gadson in the driver’s seat to win this championship for the first time. Angie and Matt Smith are 111 and 136 points back, respectively, and have enjoyed great seasons, but Gadson remains the clear favorite to take the lead into the Countdown to the Championship playoffs.


 

For more information on NHRA, including the 2026 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.

REMAINING RACES IN THE 2026 REGULAR SEASON

 

Aug. 20-23: 44th annual NHRA Brainerd Nationals, Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd, Minn.

 

Sept. 2-7: 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Indianapolis

 

NHRA COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYOFFS

 

Sept. 18-20: Inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR, U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, Martin, Mich.

 

Sept. 25-27: Inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock, Rockingham Dragway, Rockingham, N.C.

 

Oct. 2-4: 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, World Wide Technology Raceway, St. Louis

 

Oct. 9-18: 41st annual Texas NHRA FallNationals, Texas Motorplex, Dallas

 

Oct. 29-Nov. 1: 26th annual MOPAR NHRA Las Vegas Nationals powered by Dodge, The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas

 

Nov. 12-15: 61st annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, Pomona, Calif.

 

For more ticket information, please visit www.nhra.com


 

 

OLIGHT SET TO BECOME PREFERRED ILLUMINATION PARTNER OF NHRA

 

INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 11, 2026) – NHRA officials announced today that Olight, a pioneer in the portable lighting industry, has been named the Preferred Illumination Partner of NHRA as part of a multi-year agreement.

 

Serving a global community of more than 20 million users, Olight is a global innovator in portable lighting. With availability in more than 100 countries and holding more than 1,200 patents, Olight, which was founded in 2007, offers a wide range of pioneering, high-tech products for EDC, outdoor, home and garden, search and rescue applications, and more.

 

This also marks a first-time partnership between Olight and NHRA, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary season in 2026.

 

"At Olight, we build products for people who expect their tools to perform when it matters most,” Olight CEO Fox Fan said. NHRA embodies that same commitment to precision, performance, and determination. Together, we're excited to connect with racers, professionals, and fans who share those values, while bringing Olight's innovative lighting solutions to more people across the automotive community."

 

As part of the agreement, Olight will receive coverage on NHRA.tv and during NHRA on FOX broadcasts. On-site activation and signage will also take place at select national events on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, giving Olight a strong platform to showcase its award-winning products to the NHRA fanbase.

 

"NHRA is thrilled to partner with Olight as our Preferred Illumination Partner,” NHRA Vice President of Sales and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber said. “With its innovative lighting technology, Olight is a natural addition to the NHRA family. We're excited to showcase their products across our national events and introduce them to one of the most passionate fan bases in motorsports."


 

For more information on Olight, please visit www.Olight.com. For more information on NHRA, including the full 2026 75th anniversary schedule, visit www.nhra.com.


 

***

About Olight

 

 

TOM BAYER’S SCHOOL OF DRAG RACING COMING TO LUCAS OIL INDIANAPOLIS RACEWAY PARK AND FAMOSO
 

 
 

INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 4, 2026) – The weekend after the world’s biggest drag race at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Tom Bayer’s School of Drag Racing will host a special two-day licensing class in Indianapolis on Sept. 11-12.
 

 
 

The well-renowned school, which started more than 25 years ago, will also hold a two-day licensing class at Famoso Dragstrip on Oct. 15-16 in Bakersfield, Calif., offering participants a marquee opportunity to earn their NHRA competition license.
 

 
 

The two-day class in Indy takes place just after the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals on Sept. 2-7, giving students a chance to license and learn the sport of NHRA drag racing just after the most prestigious race in the sport.
 

 
 

The classes are designed for everyone from beginners in the sport to established racers, helping experienced drivers improve and giving newcomers the chance to become NHRA licensed racers and competitive drivers.
 

 
 

The two-day program at Tom Bayer’s School of Drag Racing includes detailed and comprehensive classroom training to learn drag racing fundamentals and safety, as well as one-on-one instruction. Participants will also get to drive and license in a 150-mph dragster, building up to an eight-second run over the course of six passes to earn their license under expert supervision from Bayer and his team.
 

 
 

Bayer and his team have extensive experience in NHRA drag racing, bringing more than four decades of expertise to the track. He’s enjoyed impressive success on the track, too, as a multi-time NHRA event winner in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, while his students have had significant accomplishments over the years as well.
 

 
 

The two-day event at Famoso Dragstrip takes place the weekend before another major event, with the California Hot Rod Reunion – featuring the thrilling Nitro Revival – taking place at the standout facility on Oct. 23-25.
 

 
 

For more information on Tom Bayer’s School of Drag Racing, visit www.tombayersschoolofdragracing.com. For more information on NHRA, including the full 2026 schedule, visit www.nhra.com.
 


 

***

NHRA ADDS MOTION PERFORMANCE RACEWAY TO MEMBER TRACK NETWORK

 

GIMLI, MANITOBA, CANADA (Aug. 4, 2026) – NHRA officials are pleased to announce that Motion Performance Raceway at Gimli Motorsports Park has joined the NHRA Member Track Network as part of the West Central Division (Division 5).

 

Under new ownership, the revitalized facility, which is located in Gimli, Manitoba, Canada, has enjoyed a thrilling rebirth in 2026, recently holding a successful grand opening weekend Aug. 1-2.

 

“Breathing life back into this track that was left for dead has not been easy, but it certainly has been rewarding,” Motion Performance Raceway Owner Sheldon Root said. “We are looking forward to growing this with the NHRA.”

 

The team, which also includes track manager Cheryl Sinclair, has put in significant work at the facility, making numerous upgrades and renovations. Following the grand opening over the weekend, the facility has plans for four more weekend events in 2026 and the introduction of several new race programs.

 

By joining the NHRA Member Track Network, Motion Performance Raceway will be eligible to offer racers in the area a variety of NHRA-sanctioned racing opportunities when the facility opens, including the NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier, the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League, NHRA Street Legal, NHRA Jr. Street and more. Additionally, the track will have the chance to host NHRA specialty events like the NHRA Summit King of the Track and more.

 

The facility will also receive access to NHRA’s extensive support programs as part of the member track network, insurance benefits and national marketing platforms as the track continues to grow.

 

The track is also eager to work with a standout group of local racers in the area, providing a top-tier facility to competitors in Central Canada.

 

"We are extremely excited to welcome Motion Performance Raceway and the racers of Manitoba, Canada back to the NHRA West Central Division family,” West Central Division Director Nick Duty said. “Sheldon and his team have been working non-stop on improvements to the facility and creating new programs. The support they've received from the racers and the community has been amazing. The future of drag racing in Manitoba is in great hands.”

 

For more information on NHRA, including the full 2026 schedule, visit www.nhra.com.


 

***

 

NHRA WELCOMES NEW SWAMP BOTTOM DRAG STRIP TO SOUTH CENTRAL DIVISION

 

COLUMBIA, Miss. (July 31, 2026) – NHRA officials are excited to announce that Swamp Bottom Drag Strip, a new, state-of-the-art facility currently being built in Columbia, Miss., has joined the NHRA Member Track Network as part of the South Central Division (Division 4).

 

The facility is currently in the development phase in Southern Mississippi and is owned by Brad and Tawanah Reid. Their team has already made significant progress on the dragstrip, laying concrete, installing lights and a tower, and much more in recent months.

 

The Reid family was eager to join the NHRA Member Track Network during this process, helping to ensure a seamless opening as the track comes to life.

 

“Swamp Bottom Drag Strip is being built with the goal of creating a first-class home for racers and fans in South Mississippi,” Brad and Tawanah Reid said. “Joining the NHRA Member Track Network during the development of the facility gives us the opportunity to build with strong standards, proven programs and long-term growth in mind. We are excited to work with Jonathan (Johnson, Division Director), Division 4, and NHRA as we bring this new track to life.”

By joining the NHRA Member Track Network, Swamp Bottom Drag Strip will be eligible to offer racers in the area a variety of NHRA-sanctioned racing opportunities when the facility opens, including the NHRA Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier, the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League, NHRA Street Legal, NHRA Jr. Street and more. Additionally, the track will have the chance to host NHRA specialty events like the NHRA Summit King of the Track and more.

 

The facility will also get access to NHRA’s extensive support programs as part of the member track network, insurance benefits and national marketing platforms as they continue to put the finishing touches on a state-of-the-art facility.

 

With a strong area fanbase and a region filled with talented racers, there’s also plenty of excitement surrounding the new track.

 

“We are excited to welcome Swamp Bottom Drag Strip to the NHRA Member Track Network as a brand-new facility currently under development in Columbia, Mississippi,” South Central Division Director Jonathan Johnson said. “Brad and Tawanah Reid are not only building a new drag strip, they are also creating new opportunities for racers, families and fans throughout the region. Having Swamp Bottom join Division 4 at this stage allows us to work together from the ground up and help establish a strong foundation for the future.”

 

For more information on NHRA, including the full 2026 schedule, visit www.nhra.com.

 

 

NHRA BRAINERD NATIONALS SET FOR PENULTIMATE RACE OF 2026 REGULAR SEASON

 

BRAINERD, Minn. (July 30, 2026) – With the end of the 2026 NHRA regular season approaching, this year’s NHRA Brainerd Nationals at famed Brainerd International Raceway on Aug. 20-23, will again serve as a key stop and the penultimate event before the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs.

 

The popular stop in Brainerd is the 13th of 20 events during the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and will see unbelievable, 340-mph, 12,000-horsepower action from all the stars in Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock as NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary in style.

 

Few stops on the NHRA tour match the energy and excitement that has made Brainerd International Raceway special for four-plus decades. For more than 40 years, its legendary "Zoo" campground, electric atmosphere and incredible racing have made the NHRA Brainerd Nationals a legendary stop for fans across the country.

 

Every August, passionate fans gather to experience the sights, sounds and raw power of NHRA racing and 2026 promises to be another epic weekend, especially with added 75th anniversary highlights like:


 

  • Three-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps will be honored for his success at BIR and his addition to NHRA’s Top 75 Drivers this year. Capps owns seven Brainerd victories, the most of any active driver. His success at the famed facility has seen the addition of “Capps’ Corner” in the Zoo campground.
  • A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and more.

 

Last season, Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) all won in Brainerd. The race will again be broadcast on FS1 with elimination coverage beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 23.

Kalitta earned four race wins last season en route to his second Top Fuel world championship, including his third NHRA Brainerd Nationals title. Kalitta has three wins this season, while teammate Shawn Langdon has four wins and the points lead. Others to watch will be Epping winner Leah Pruett, rookie standout and Norwalk winner Maddi Gordon, Antron Brown and motorsports legend Tony Stewart.


 

Two-time reigning world champion Austin Prock earned his first Brainerd win last year over J.R. Todd. This year Prock has one win, while Todd is the most recent winner following his Seattle victory. Three-time champ and Brainerd honoree Capps leads the points thanks to three wins 2026, while past champ Jack Beckman, Funny Car newcomer Jordan Vandergriff and four-time world champ Matt Hagan are close behind.

 

Last year, six-time Pro Stock world champ Greg Anderson won in Brainerd over KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn, giving the Minnesota native his fourth win at BIR. Anderson currently leads the points, thanks to his wins in Pomona, Maryland and Seattle. Glenn, who won the title in 2025, is second, with three wins as well.

  

The NHRA Brainerd Nationals will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. Ahead of the race, there will be a double-divisional event on Aug. 13-16, which features hundreds of top racers and creates plenty of excitement for an unbelievable two-week stretch at the standout track.

  

Brainerd race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate event winners.

 

As always, fans get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans get a unique chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more. They can also visit Manufacturers Midway, an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

 

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 3:30 and 6:00 p.m. CT on Friday, Aug. 21 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 12:00 and 2:30 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. CT on Sunday, Aug. 23. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 11:00 p.m. ET on Friday and 10:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, and eliminations at 8:30 p.m. ET Sunday.

 

To purchase tickets to the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, fans can call 866-444-4455.

 

 

NHRA’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONTINUES AT DRAG RACING’S BIGGEST EVENT: THE CORNWELL QUALITY TOOLS NHRA U.S. NATIONALS


 

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park set to host the world’s biggest drag race

 

INDIANAPOLIS (July 30, 2026) – As NHRA continues its yearlong 75th anniversary celebration in 2026, the spotlight turns to the world’s biggest drag race, the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at the famed Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on Sept. 2-7.

 

The sport’s grandest stage will feature hundreds of racers competing for drag racing glory and the sport’s biggest prize: a U.S. Nationals victory. From the 12,000-horsepower, 340-mph nitro-fueled Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars to the standouts in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, there’s nothing like winning at The Big Go and there’s no event as prestigious as the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. 

 

For more than seven decades, the race has shaped legacies and careers as the peak of every NHRA season. That holds true in 2026, as NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary in a major way at Indy, including these special highlights:

 

  • Appearances from NHRA legends, including Don Garlits, Don Prudhomme, Kenny Bernstein, Joe Amato, Shirley Muldowney and Darrell Gwynn.
  • A celebration of NHRA’s 75-year history with exhibition runs on Friday and Sunday from the classic Rat Trap and Bradford’s Fiat nitro Fuel Altereds.
  • Plus, push-start cackle cars on Friday and Sunday driven by NHRA legends.
  • A new-look Nitro Mall, special apparel, displays and more.

 

On the track, the event is jammed with excitement, as all the top stars in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle compete for the special 75th anniversary Diamond Wally on the sport’s biggest stage. From Friday qualifying under the lights, to the final Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge of the year on Saturday to the thrilling Funny Car All-Star Callout on Sunday and eliminations on Labor Day Monday, there’s no weekend quite like Indy,

 

Other major items include:



  • The Sox & Martin Hemi Challenge returns as the longest-running continuous specialty race in NHRA history, featuring exciting heads-up, wheelstanding, and side-by-side racing of Hemi-powered '68 Super Stock Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas competing in the NHRA SS/AH class.
  • An unforgettable Top Eliminator Club experience, including NHRA driver appearances, food and drink, TEC gift bag, starting line seats and much more.
  • Free parking for all fans in attendance for the entire weekend.
  • SealMaster Track Walk before Monday’s eliminations. 
  • Multiple autograph sessions throughout the weekend.
  • A can’t-miss Hot Rod Junction.
  • A special Sportsman appreciation dinner from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday of the race in Top Eliminator Club
  • Children 12-and-under get in free to an event offering all-day entertainment.



The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will again crown its four regular season champions at Indy, with nearly $400,000 on the line. Plus, eight top Funny Car drivers will compete in the big-money All-Star Callout. Two-time reigning Funny Car world champion Austin Prock swept the weekend in 2025 by winning the Callout, the regular season championship and the race on Labor Day. Prock will meet up with the other stars of the class as they battle it out for bragging rights and big money.

 

Last year’s Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals saw Prock (Funny Car), Justin Ashley (Top Fuel), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) win the world’s biggest drag race. This year’s event will once again be broadcast on FS1 with qualifying and the NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout throughout the weekend. Monday’s eliminations will be broadcast on FOX beginning at 2 p.m. ET.

Prock claimed his second straight Indy last year as part of a $330,000 weekend when he defeated Jack Beckman, clinching the regular season title as Prock also rolled to the world title. Prock, now driving for Tasca Racing, has one win on the season as he looks to make a late-season charge. Other Funny Car standouts will be multi-time champs Ron Capps and Matt Hagan, with J.R. Todd, Chad Green, and Funny Car rookie and driver of the John Force Racing Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS, Jordan Vandergriff.

 

Motorsports legend Tony Stewart secured last year’s Top Fuel regular season title in Indy, but it was standout Justin Ashley who earned the win when he defeated Stewart in the finals. Stewart has one win so far in 2026 from Pomona, while his wife Leah Pruett picked up the Epping win. Former world champ Shawn Langdon currently leads the points, with his teammate and reigning champ Doug Kalitta in second.

 

Six-time Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders won for the fourth time at Indy last year, getting her 50th career victory with a win over Matt Hartford. Dallas Glenn earned the regular season championship and went on to secure his first world title. Currently leading the points is six-time champ Greg Anderson, thanks to his three wins on the season, with Glenn right behind in second.

 

Two-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champ Gaige Herrera rolled to his second straight win at The Big Go by defeating Brayden Davis. Herrera earned the regular season championship, but it was his Vance & Hines teammate Richard Gadson who took home the world title. Others to watch include Matt and Angie Smith, Steve Johnson, Ryan Oehler, Jianna Evaristo, John Hall and Chase Van Sant.

 

Also competing will be drivers in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown.

 

Indy race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Monday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Monday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate event winners.

 

As always, fans get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans get a unique chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more. They can also visit Manufacturers Midway, an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

 

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature one round at 6:15 p.m. ET on Friday, Sept. 4, two rounds at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 5 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Sunday, Sept. 6 at 12 and 2:45 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10 a.m. ET on Monday, Sept 7.


 

Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 3 and 10:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, and eliminations at 12 p.m. on FS1 on Monday, shifting to FOX at 2 p.m.


 

The first round of the Funny Car All-Star Callout takes place at 12:45 p.m. ET on Sunday, with the semifinals at 2:15 p.m. and the final round at 3:40 p.m. A special broadcast of the Callout takes place on FS1 at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday.


 

To purchase tickets to the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

 
 

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