IHRA Cuts 4 Events From 2026 Schedule, Leaving 2 Points Races After Facility Delays
Updated
Updated · Competition Plus · Jul 3
IHRA Cuts 4 Events From 2026 Schedule, Leaving 2 Points Races After Facility Delays
1 articles · Updated · Competition Plus · Jul 3
Summary
Four scheduled IHRA events at Milan, Empire, Darana-Heartland and Atlanta were dropped from the 2026 calendar, leaving only two Outlaw Nitro Series points races to decide championships.
Ongoing construction and venue upgrades could not be finished in time to meet IHRA standards for safety, professionalism and fan experience, prompting the series to reset rather than open unready facilities.
Two remaining points races—at Dragway 42 in Ohio and the finale at Darana Motorsports Park in North Carolina—now replace the six-weekend title chase teams had expected, while non-points Triple Crown events stay on.
Racers interviewed by CompetitionPlus said the move was disappointing but largely justified, citing IHRA's record of paying promised purses and delivering on commitments since its return.
Jason Harris said the series needs more transparency, but several drivers argued the backlash is overstated and that fewer well-prepared events are better for IHRA's longer-term rebuild.