The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) recently announced its 2026 Outlaw Nitro Series schedule, featuring eight national events and a lucrative championship program. The series will award a total of $9 million in prize money across all pro and sportsman categories. Each race will offer $50,000 to the winners in Top Fuel and Funny Car, contributing to a collective purse of over $1 million per event across 21 categories, with sportsman winners receiving up to $5,000.

Championship payouts are substantial, with winners earning $200,000 in Top Fuel and Funny Car, $100,000 in Pro Mod, and further payouts for other classes, totaling $1.6 million for the season. A highlight is the IHRA Triple Crown, which consists of three key events at renowned tracks—Maple Grove Raceway, National Trail Raceway, and Memphis—offering a combined payout of $4,362,000 and a chance for class champions to win a $1 million bonus for sweeping all events.

Additionally, the Pro Mod Mania event scheduled for June 5-7, 2026, will provide a $275,000 purse, attracting elite racing teams. In total, the IHRA will distribute $13,653,900 in professional drag racing payouts across all classes in 2026. Responding to racer feedback, the IHRA has also reverted to a 1/4-mile distance for several sportsman categories, ensuring a focus on racer interests while enhancing competitive opportunities.



Source: www.dragzine.com