Bill Bader, Summit Motorsports Park step up for Sportsman Drag Racers
Dear IHRA Member Track Owners & Operators,
In a major win for grassroots drag racing, a $150,000 Guaranteed Purse has been officially secured for qualifying drivers at the upcoming World Finals, scheduled for October 22–24, 2026, at Summit Motorsports Park (Norwalk, OH).
When uncertainty surrounding the event arose, the racing community stepped up. Five industry-leading companies have committed to fully underwrite the $150,000 purse, ensuring that sportsman racers who work all season to qualify get the payout, prestige, and championship stage they deserve.
The participating founding sponsors underwriting the $150,000.00 Guaranteed Purse include:
· Summit Racing Equipment
· BluePrint Engines
· PJH TrackBite
· Fuel Factory
· 1 more to be named
"Sportsman racing is the backbone of this entire sport. When times get tough, real partners step up to support the racers who keep the staging lanes full. We promised a purse and an event that everyone could be proud of, and thanks to these incredible sponsors, that promise is realized." - Bill Bader Jr., President of Summit Motorsports Park.
Please keep in mind this is an alternative should the IHRA decide not to produce a World Finals.
I’m excited to report that the Team Finals events are beginning to take shape with tracks stepping up to lead their respective regions. Expect more details next week.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our sport!
