DragCoverage has received word that the International Hot Rod Association is entering a period of significant restructuring as leadership prepares to formally announce that the IHRA Nitro Series will end immediately for the 2026 season. The move follows last week’s news of a shortened schedule and has already resulted in staffing cuts within the national event division, sparking widespread speculation online.
Rumors quickly escalated, with many racers questioning whether IHRA might be shutting down entirely. However, IHRA leadership clarified today, through an email to IHRA sanctioned tracks, that the organization has not announced any plans to close, and the bracket racing structure remains unchanged.
IHRA says that the sanctioning body is shifting its focus back to its most stable foundation: member tracks and sportsman bracket racers.
An official announcement addressing the changes is expected from IHRA in the coming days.
