Credit – Maryland International Raceway and NHRA
MECHANICSVILLE, Md. — Maryland International Raceway announced today, Aug. 28, that it will become an NHRA-sanctioned track in 2026 and host its first national event, a milestone for the Southern Maryland facility.
The Budds Creek drag strip will stage the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals on May 29–31, 2026, as part of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The event will be televised on FOX Sports, bringing top-tier nitro racing to the region and marking one of two new stops added to the series next year.
“We are thrilled to be hosting an NHRA National event here at Maryland International Raceway,” owner Royce Miller said. “I am excited to showcase the stars of our sport and incredible nitro racing to our dedicated and loyal MIR fans.”
Until the transition, MIR will remain under WDRA sanction through the end of the 2025 season with no changes to its current schedule. Officials said more information on the 2026 season will be released as details are finalized.
MIR is one of two tracks joining the NHRA national schedule next season. The full 2026 slate is available at NHRA.com.
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Excellent news!