The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), the Fairfield, Ohio–based sanctioning body, has added yet another race track to its growing portfolio, reinforcing a buying spree that has seen the organization snap up race facilities and sanctioning rights across motorsports since last year. Under owner Darryl Cuttell, the IHRA's latest purchase continues a trend of strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding its footprint in drag racing, stock car racing and beyond.

IHRA has also accelerated significant program development across its portfolio. Recent announcements include the appointment of Tommy Thomassie as executive vice president and director of Powerboating—accompanied by the release of the 2026 Offshore Series schedule—and the launch of a new IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series set to debut in 2026 with $250,000 in prize money. Together, these initiatives seem to signal a broader expansion strategy running in parallel with IHRA's rapid growth in facilities and sanctioning assets.

Just prior to the new year, IHRA announced its acquisition of Heartland Motorsports Park in Topeka, Kansas.

The facility opened in 1963 as Topeka Dragway and over the years, has hosted national drag racing events as well as road racing, karting, motocross and grassroots competitions, becoming a long-standing motorsports venue in the Midwest. According to IHRA Owner Darryl Cuttell, the organization plans to restore and redevelop the property while respecting its history.

In addition, the IHRA has also announced the acquisition of Rockingham Speedway in Richmond County, North Carolina. Known worldwide as "The Rock," Rockingham Speedway has played a pivotal role in NASCAR and American racing history for decades and remains deeply tied to the identity and pride of the City of Rockingham and Richmond County. Planned improvements include facility upgrades, expanded fan amenities, and the addition of entertainment elements such as concerts and festival-style experiences alongside marquee racing events, according to a news release.

IHRA's moves over the past few months include also:

• IHRA Launches New National Stock Car Series
• IHRA Completes WDRA Acquisition
• IHRA Announces Acquisition of F1 Powerboat Racing
• IHRA Acquires Maple Grove Raceway
• IHRA Acquires Former Memphis International Raceway (TN)

For more information, visit ihra.com.