Registration is officially open and session times have been announced for the 53rd Annual RPM @ Daytona Workshops, scheduled for February 8–10, 2026, in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida.

The 2026 speaking lineup will be headlined by Levi Jones, promoter and general manager of Eldora Speedway. Jones' diverse background and attention to detail have established him as one of the sport's leading voices, offering insight into both operational excellence and forward-thinking promotion.

Joining the program on Tuesday, February 10, will be Loretta Thiering, owner and promoter of Edmonton International Raceway (Alberta, Canada). Thiering will present a dynamic session focused on the evolving business of race track promotion.

Additional sessions include

• "The Jody Session," honoring the legacy of Jody Deery, one of the founders and strongest supporters of the RPM Workshops. This session will be led by women in the motorsports industry, with all attendees encouraged to participate.
• Legal Update & Pro Bono Hour, expanded and delivered through breakout sessions.
• Additional sessions designed to support, educate and strengthen the short track motorsports industry.

More information and registration for the 53rd Annual RPM @ Daytona Workshops is now available here.

Additionally, voting is now open for the annual Auto-Racing Promoter of the Year (ARPY) Award.

Click here to vote.

Racing America has confirmed the sudden passing of Chief Operating Officer Michael Printup. He was 60.

Printup first joined Racing America in July 2023 as the president of Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA). In January 2024, he was promoted to chief operating officer, where he oversaw the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli, as well as all racing operations.

A native of Hamburg, New York, Printup spent nearly three decades working for NASCAR, most notably in the role of president of Watkins Glen International. He was also president of Americrown and oversaw the Levy food service contract for 12 NASCAR-owned racetracks.

"During his tenure, Michael played a key role in the continued growth and success of Watkins Glen International, helping to strengthen its operations, partnerships and standing within the motorsports industry while honoring the venue's storied history," track representatives said in a statement. "Michael was a respected leader who left a lasting impact on the organization and those who worked alongside him. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues."

For more information, visit racingamerica.com.

Image courtesy of Racing America

Ray Marler, the former owner of I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park in Pevely, Missouri, has passed away. He was 87.

Marler partnered with Ken Schrader during their 29-year ownership of the track, selling the St. Louis-area speedway in 2024 to Josh Caroll.

Marler was also recognized as the 45th annual Auto-Racing Promoter of the Year in 2021 at the RPM Promoters Workshop.

For more on Marler's life and career, click here.

Image courtesy of Racing Promoters Monthly

The 2026 PRI Magazine Racing Industry Buyers Guide is now available, giving you access to information on hundreds of new parts, products and services. Check out the December issue online now to browse through the industry's premier source for new products and technology from all segments of the performance and racing world.

Inside, you'll find hundreds of listings from industry manufacturers from the following categories:

• Engine Components
• Chassis, Driveline and Suspension Components
• Racing Components, Accessories and Services
• Machinery, Tools and Equipment
• Race Track Equipment and Supplies
• Sanctioning Organizations
• Manufacturers Reps
• Warehouse Distributors
• Manufacturers, Distributors and Service Providers

See all the new innovations from around the industry in the December issue, available now HERE.

Below is a step-by-step guide to claiming your free digital subscription to PRI Magazine on your phone.

Visit the link below or scan the QR code to claim your coupon voucher:

Claim your free PRI Magazine digital subscription here.

Fill in the mandatory fields and questions regarding your motorsports background and interests.

Hit subscribe to claim your free subscription. Now, you're able to activate your account by downloading the PRI Magazine app. Tap the IOS link for Apple devices and Google Play for others.

Once you sign up, you'll have full access to a year's worth of valuable industry knowledge and insights. Get to reading! Be sure to sign up for notifications on the latest issue.

For any questions or assistance, please reach out to PRI's Customer Service Team at membership@performanceracing.com or call 949-499-5413. 

NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps has stepped away from the organization, NASCAR officials announced. Phelps, who joined NASCAR in 2005, will transition out of the company by the end of the month.

Phelps was appointed to the newly created position of NASCAR commissioner in March 2025. In the role, Phelps was responsible for oversight of all NASCAR operations, as well as the International Motorsports Association (IMSA) and all 15 NASCAR-owned or operated racetracks. Prior to being named commissioner, Phelps served as NASCAR president between 2018 and 2025.

NASCAR has not announced any additional leadership or personnel changes as Phelps's departure, the organization said. There are no immediate plans to replace the Commissioner role or to seek outside leadership as the administration of his responsibilities will be delegated internally through NASCAR's President and executive leadership team.

"As a lifelong race fan, it gives me immense pride to have served as NASCAR's first commissioner and to lead our great sport through so many incredible challenges, opportunities and firsts over my 20 years," said Phelps. "Our sport is built on the passion of our fans, the dedication of our teams and partners, and the commitment of our wonderful employees. It has been an honor to help synthesize the enthusiasm of long-standing NASCAR stakeholders with that of new entrants to our ecosystem, such as media partners, auto manufacturers, track operators and incredible racing talent."

Under Phelps's leadership, the sport has transformed its annual schedule with new events, reshaped its strategic vision, expanded its international footprint, secured long-term media rights and charter agreements, and assembled a leadership team, NASCAR said. During his tenure, Phelps oversaw NASCAR's merger with ISC, the launch of the Next Gen race car in 2022 – only the seventh new vehicle in the sport's history, and more. 

"Steve will forever be remembered as one of NASCAR's most impactful leaders," said NASCAR Chairman and CEO, Jim France. "For decades he has worked tirelessly to thrill fans, support teams and execute a vision for the sport that has treated us all to some of the greatest moments in our nearly 80-year history. It's been an honor to work alongside him in achieving the impossible like being the first sport to return during Covid, or in delivering the unimaginable by launching new races in the LA Memorial Coliseum and NASCAR's first-ever street race in downtown Chicago. Steve leaves NASCAR with a transformative legacy of innovation and collaboration with an unrelenting growth mindset."

For more information, visit nascar.com.

Image Courtesy of NASCAR--Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images

The NHRA is releasing its list of Top 75 drivers ahead of its 75th anniversary season in 2026.

Building off the organization's Top 50 Drivers list compiled during its 50th anniversary season in 2001, the sanctioning body will add 25 new drivers to its list, announcing five drivers each Monday through February 2.

Tony Schumacher, Robert Hight, Erica Enders, Andrew Hines and Peter Biondo have been announced as the first new members of NHRA's Top 75 Drivers list.

The original Top 50 Drivers remain a foundational part of the new Top 75 Drivers list, with historical figures such as Don Garlits, John Force, Don Prudhomme and Shirley Muldowney celebrated alongside current stars, with the full list showcasing NHRA's best across all eras.

The 25 new additions were selected for their excellence over the last 25 years and include the best from NHRA's Professional and Sportsman classes.

For more information, visit nhra.com.

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.

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has announced the appointment of Tommy Thomassie as executive vice president, director of Powerboating, and released the official 2026 IHRA Offshore Series National Championship schedule.

The announcement advances IHRA's long-term vision for offshore powerboat racing, establishing clear leadership and a defined championship pathway for competitors, said IHRA.

"Tommy has helped lead successful motorsports operations and has been deeply involved in sponsorship negotiations while playing a key role in the growth and success of Pro Class 1. His vision for the sport and his long-term commitment to offshore racing align perfectly with the future IHRA is building," said Leah Martin, president of IHRA. "When I was asked to serve as president of IHRA, I knew immediately that building the right leadership team was critical—and naming this position was a top priority. I asked myself, 'If not me, then who?' Tommy was my first instinct and my first choice." 

As executive vice president and director of Powerboating, Thomassie will oversee all IHRA offshore powerboating disciplines, including competition operations, sanctioning standards, safety integration, commercial strategy and long-term series development.

"I'm honored to step into this role at such a pivotal moment for powerboat racing, and this schedule provides a roster of strong venues and a defined championship structure," Thomassie said. "IHRA's vision is bold, inclusive, and focused on the future. I look forward to working alongside the IHRA leadership team and the racing community to strengthen the sport, create sustainable growth, and deliver world-class events for fans around the globe."

2026 IHRA Offshore Series National Championship Schedule

• March 27–29 — St. Petersburg, Florida
• April 10–12 — New Orleans, Louisiana
• May - TBA
• June 12–14 — Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
• July 24–26 — St. Clair, Michigan
• August 7–9 — Sheboygan, Wisconsin
• September 11–13 — Orange Beach, Alabama
• World Championship — Date & Location TBA

The 2026 IHRA Offshore Series will feature a $2,000,000 total purse, plus tow money , and national television coverage, all designed to be easily accessible for fans and teams, expanding visibility and value across the series.

Official class rules, purse breakdowns, tow money distribution details, and broadcast specifics will be released in mid-January, providing teams with clear guidance as they prepare for the season.

For more information, visit ihra.com.

Image courtesy of IHRA

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has announced the launch of the IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series, a new professional personal watercraft racing championship set to debut in 2026. Featuring both stand-up and runabout competition, the series is designed to usher in a new era of professional watercraft racing by delivering elevated competition, increased visibility and meaningful opportunities for racers, the series said.

The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series will be integrated into select IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series events. Backed by strong industry interest, experienced leadership and a $250,000 prize pool, the series is being built with a racer-first mindset and a long-term commitment to growth and sustainability, the series said.

"Personal watercraft racing has reached a point where it is ready for something new," said Thomas Covington, who oversees overall strategy and commercial operations for the series. "Racers are looking for a clear vision and a professional platform they can believe in. By aligning this series with major offshore events, increasing exposure and putting real prize money on the line, we are creating a foundation that can elevate the sport and open the door for future expansion."

Legendary racer Dustin Farthing will serve as the managing director, bringing credibility, insight and a racer-driven perspective to the championship.

"This series is being built by racers, for racers," said Farthing. "We are focused on raising the standard across the board, from competition format and event execution to prize money and visibility. This is about giving athletes a series they can be proud to compete in and helping push the sport forward."

IHRA leadership emphasized that this announcement marks the first step in a broader, long-term investment in professional watercraft racing.

"IHRA has always been committed to growing motorsports and creating new opportunities for racers," said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. "Personal watercraft racing has tremendous potential and this series represents our commitment to investing in the sport, building a stronger platform and delivering first-class competition and fan experiences."

While specific event details will be announced in the future, planning and outreach efforts are already underway with racers, promoters, sponsors and international partners. The IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series schedule will be announced in the very near future, with the Pro Watercraft Racing Series integrated into select offshore events as part of that rollout. The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series will also feature comprehensive live streaming and digital coverage to ensure global access for fans and stakeholders.


Photo credit Kelly Stine, courtesy of IHRA/Facebook

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), the Fairfield, Ohio–based sanctioning body, has 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.

IHRA intends to restore Rockingham Speedway to its former glory while enhancing the venue as a multi-use destination. 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 recognizes what Rockingham Speedway means to this community and to motorsports fans around the world," said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. "This is a special place with a strong foundation. Our goal is to be good stewards of the facility, respect its history, and work collaboratively to bring quality racing and entertainment back to The Rock."

The Easter weekend NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series event will build on the momentum generated in 2025, when the series' return to Rockingham delivered strong attendance, national television exposure, and renewed excitement around the historic track. The April weekend is expected to feature a full slate of on-track activity, including the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series West, and fan-focused programming throughout the holiday weekend. More information and advance sale tickets for that weekend can be found at racetherock.com and trackenterprises.com.

Image courtesy of IHRA