After 66 long years, the roar of NHRA drag racing is set to return to Michigan—and this time, it's bigger than ever. The last full National Hot Rod Association event in the Great Lakes State took place back in 1960 at the now-defunct Detroit Dragway in Brownstown Township. But that drought is about to end in spectacular fashion.
Mark your calendars for September 18-20, 2026, when the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series roars into U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan—a prime location between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. This isn't just any race; it's the opening round of the six-race playoffs, kicking off the championship countdown during NHRA's 75th anniversary season. The season finale, the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, is scheduled for November 12-15 in Pomona, California.
Dodge and Mopar are stepping up as title and presenting sponsors, bringing some serious horsepower to the event. Fans can expect to see racing legends Matt Hagan and Leah Pruett of Tony Stewart Racing representing the brands on the track, with all the action broadcast on FS1. Off the track, Dodge and Mopar—both part of Stellantis—are planning an interactive exhibit and a jaw-dropping display of Dodge muscle cars that'll make any gearhead's heart race.
"This race has huge importance as the first event in the countdown to the championship," said Brad Gerber, NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer. "Partnering with two iconic brands like Dodge and Mopar, which have a deep-rooted history in the area and in NHRA Drag Racing, elevates it even further. It's a great way to launch the playoffs at a new venue, and we're looking forward to delivering a standout weekend for everyone involved."
But the drag racing excitement doesn't stop there. Before the NHRA returns to Michigan, Roadkill Nights will bring street-legal drag racing back to Woodward Avenue. MotorTrend Presents Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge is set for August 8 at M1 Concourse in Pontiac, serving as the perfect warm-up for Cruise Week and the legendary Woodward Dream Cruise.
Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, this is a historic moment for Michigan motorsports. For tickets and more information, visit www.nhra.com/tickets. The countdown to the playoffs starts now.