In a groundbreaking announcement that is set to electrify the motorsports community, NHRA officials have confirmed that the U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan, will host a highly anticipated Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event in 2026. This remarkable occasion will feature the inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals, launching the Countdown to the Championship playoffs from September 18-20, 2026.
This event is not just another race; it is a pivotal moment in NHRA history, marking the first time this prestigious series will take the stage at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. The facility, renowned for its world-class drag racing experience, will serve as the 15th event in NHRA’s 20-race lineup during a momentous 75th-anniversary season. With the addition of this event, NHRA is amplifying its presence across the nation, showcasing four new national event venues in a season packed with excitement.
Jason Peterson, Vice President of Operations at U.S. 131 Motorsports, expressed the facility’s pride in securing this event, stating, “Hosting an NHRA national event underscores our continued commitment to excellence, safety, and delivering unforgettable motorsports entertainment.” His words resonate with the passion and enthusiasm that the Peterson family has cultivated over more than two decades, transforming U.S. 131 into a premier destination for racers and fans alike.
The Countdown to the Championship will kick off with two new tracks in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, starting with the Great Lakes Nationals in Martin, followed by the historic Rockingham Dragway for the NHRA Nationals at The Rock. This thrilling back-to-back lineup promises to set the tone for an exhilarating playoff season, preceded by first-time races at South Georgia Motorsports Park and Maryland International Raceway.
Known as “The Fastest Track in Michigan,” U.S. 131 Motorsports Park has long held a revered place in the hearts of drag racing enthusiasts. Its strategic location draws fans from major markets including Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Kalamazoo, solidifying its status as one of the Midwest’s premier facilities. The excitement is palpable as this beloved track prepares to welcome competitors, sponsors, and fans to what is anticipated to be an unforgettable racing experience.
NHRA President Glen Cromwell shared his enthusiasm for this new chapter, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome U.S. 131 Motorsports Park to the NHRA national event schedule in 2026. It’s a historic milestone for the facility and it’s another terrific way to celebrate our 75th anniversary season.” Cromwell emphasized that launching the Countdown at U.S. 131 symbolizes NHRA’s commitment to expanding the sport and providing top-tier racing to passionate fans.
As the countdown to this monumental event begins, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a spectacular showcase of speed, skill, and the spirit of competition—all set against the backdrop of a vibrant racing community that makes Michigan special. Mark your calendars and prepare for an adrenaline-fueled experience as U.S. 131 Motorsports Park gears up for its historic debut in the NHRA national event lineup. This is more than a race; it’s the beginning of a thrilling legacy in the making.
