IHRA Surpasses 110 Sanctioned Tracks

February 23, 2026

in Racing

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FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The International Hot Rod Association has reached 111 sanctioned drag racing facilities worldwide, marking the largest sanctioned track base in IHRA history.

This milestone represents a 70 percent increase over last season and the most significant year-over-year growth the organization has ever recorded. Since December alone, 58 tracks have joined the IHRA family.

This total does not include facilities recently acquired by IHRA.

The last time IHRA sanctioned 100 tracks was in 2012. IHRA sanctioned facilities span six countries.

“This milestone is not just about numbers. It is about belief,” said Darryl Cuttell, IHRA owner. “This growth represents track owners around the world who believe in what we are building and where we are taking the sport. The foundation of drag racing has always been the weekly racer and the independent facility. Their vote of confidence speaks volumes.”

IHRA’s expansion signals a meaningful shift within the grassroots drag racing community. Track owners have cited racer-first policies, operational transparency, safety innovation, and enhanced marketing support as key factors in sanctioning with IHRA.

Dan Crownhart, owner of Cordova Dragway, shared his reasoning for working with IHRA.

“The group IHRA has assembled to lead member tracks is second to none,” Crownhart said. “We feel part of a bigger stage as IHRA moves forward in becoming the dominant sanctioning body. I am thrilled to be an IHRA member track. The enthusiasm, inspiration, and growth of the sanctioning body over the last 12 months has been truly remarkable.”

Gaylon Rolison owns Gulfport Dragway.

“Gulfport Dragway is proud to be a part of IHRA,” Rolison said. “The IHRA Member Track and Bracket Racing group puts priority on assisting and helping the tracks they represent and goes out of their way to help all tracks operate efficiently. A true 10 out of 10.”