It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Two action packed weeks of racing in The Sooner State kicks off with the 2026 Tulsa Shootout, which begins December 29 and concludes January 3 inside the SageNet Center. 

With a record-breaking number of entries (1,939 and counting), event officials recently released a tentative daily schedule for the six days of racing in Tulsa. 

This year’s schedule has been adjusted to include a full day of practice on Monday, December 29 prior to the start of heat racing on Tuesday, December 30. Adjustments to the schedule have also allowed on-track action for the Junior Sprint division to be held earlier in the day. 

“Those poor kids last year, when we had a couple days run long, it was forcing parents to wake their kids up to race, and as a parent, that really bothered me and knew that was something we needed to fix, so with the way were able to move things, I feel like this will be better not just for those teams, but everyone as a whole,” stated Tulsa Expo Raceway Chief of Operations, Matt Ward.

The tentative daily schedule for this year’s Tulsa Shootout can be viewed below. All six days of the 2026 Tulsa Shootout will be streamed live on FloRacing. 

2026 Tulsa Shootout Daily Schedule

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27

Parking: 8:00am

Sign-in: 12:00pm – 7:00pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28

Parking: 8:00am

Sign-in: 12:00pm – 7:00pm

Tech for Restricted: 3:00pm

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Practice: 9:00am (One round per class)

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw

K&B Motorsports Restricted

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints

JST Motorsports A-Class

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing FuelTech Heats

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints FuelTech Heats

JST Motorsports A-Class FuelTech Heats

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw FuelTech Heats

K&B Motorsports Restricted FuelTech Heats

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw FuelTech Heats

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing E-Mains

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing D-Mains

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing C-Mains

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing Qualifiers

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints Qualifiers

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw Qualifiers

K&B Motorsports Restricted Qualifiers

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw Qualifiers

JST Motorsports A-Class Qualifiers

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw D-Mains

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw C-Mains

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw E-Mains

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw D-Mains

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw C-Mains

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints C-Mains

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints B-Mains

K&B Motorsports Restricted C-Mains

K&B Motorsports Restricted B-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class E-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class D-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class C-Mains

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3

SageNet Center Opens: 7:00am

Racer’s For Christ Service: 7:30am

Engine Heat: 8:15am – 8:20am

Racing: 9:00am

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing B-Mains

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw B-Mains

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw B-Mains

JST Motorsports A-Class B-Mains

OPENING CEREMONIES, PARADE OF STATES

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing LCQ

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw LCQ

K&B Motorsports Restricted LCQ

JST Motorsports A-Class LCQ

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw LCQ

Joe’s Racing Products Stock Non-Wing A-Feature

Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints A-Feature

Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw A-Feature

K&B Motorsports Restricted A-Feature

JST Motorsports A-Class A-Feature

Hyper Racing Non-Wing Outlaw A-Feature

**Schedule is subject to change without notice. Any updates will be posted to http://www.tulsashootout.com.

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the launch of the IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series, a new professional personal watercraft racing championship set to debut in 2026.

Featuring both stand up and runabout competition, the series is designed to usher in a new era of professional watercraft racing by delivering elevated competition, increased visibility, and meaningful opportunities for racers. 

The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series will be integrated into select IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series events, creating action packed race weekends and a premium on water experience for fans, racers, and partners alike. 

Backed by strong industry interest, experienced leadership, and a $250,000 prize pool, the series is being built with a racer first mindset and a long-term commitment to growth and sustainability. 

“Personal watercraft racing has reached a point where it is ready for something new,” said Thomas Covington, who oversees overall strategy and commercial operations for the series. “Racers are looking for a clear vision and a professional platform they can believe in. By aligning this series with major offshore events, increasing exposure, and putting real prize money on the line, we are creating a foundation that can elevate the sport and open the door for future expansion.” 

The series is being developed by a leadership team with deep roots in motorsports and firsthand experience in professional racing, operations, and athlete development. Legendary racer Dustin Farthing will serve as Managing Director, bringing credibility, insight, and a racer driven perspective to the championship. 

“This series is being built by racers, for racers,” said Farthing. “We are focused on raising the standard across the board, from competition format and event execution to prize money and visibility. This is about giving athletes a series they can be proud to compete in and helping push the sport forward.” 

IHRA leadership emphasized that this announcement marks the first step in a broader, long-term investment in professional watercraft racing. 

“IHRA has always been committed to growing motorsports and creating new opportunities for racers,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. “Personal watercraft racing has tremendous potential, and this series represents our commitment to investing in the sport, building a stronger platform, and delivering first class competition and fan experiences.” 

While specific event details will be announced in the future, planning and outreach efforts are already underway with racers, promoters, sponsors, and international partners. The IHRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Series schedule will be announced in the very near future, with the Pro Watercraft Racing Series integrated into select offshore events as part of that rollout. The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series will also feature comprehensive live streaming and digital coverage to ensure global access for fans and stakeholders. 

The IHRA Pro Watercraft Racing Series represents a significant step forward for professional personal watercraft racing and signals a clear vision for the future of the sport. 

FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The International Hot Rod Association has officially completed the acquisition of the historic motorsports facility formerly known as Memphis International Raceway and Memphis Motorsports Park.

The sale of the multi-purpose Millington, Tenn., facility closed on December 23.

Originally opened in the late 1980s, the facility has played a significant role in American motorsports history.

It has hosted major drag racing events and national touring series and was, at one point, sanctioned by IHRA, hosting IHRA-sanctioned drag racing events during that time. With the property now under IHRA ownership, the acquisition represents a full-circle moment that reconnects the track’s past with a renewed vision for its future.

The facility has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County. Under IHRA ownership, it will operate as a multi-use destination supporting drag racing, stock car competition, grassroots motorsports, and other large-scale events that engage the broader community and region.

“This investment honors the legacy of Memphis Motorsports Park while positioning it for a strong future. IHRA’s acquisition reflects confidence in our region and creates new opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and fan experiences.” said Mayor Paul Young, City of Memphis.

“As the Commissioner for District 1, I am thrilled about IHRA’s acquisition of Memphis Motorsports Park. This investment strengthens our local economy, puts world-class racing back on solid ground, and gives our families and young people a safe, exciting place to create memories for years to come. Having a national organization like IHRA committed to the long-term success of this historic facility is exactly the kind of partnership Shelby County needs.” said Amber Mills, Shelby County Commissioner, District 1, Shelby County Government.

“Memphis Motorsports Park has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County, and IHRA’s acquisition represents a positive step forward for the facility and the community. This investment supports the continued use of the track as a regional destination while creating opportunities for local businesses and future growth. The Millington Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with IHRA as this next chapter takes shape.” said Chris Thomas, Executive Director, Millington Area Chamber of Commerce.

“This is a special place in American motorsports,” said Darryl Cuttell, CEO of IHRA. “This facility has a deep history in drag racing and stock car competition, and our goal is to honor that legacy while building a strong, sustainable future. We are committed to bringing meaningful racing back to this property while expanding its role as a destination for a wide range of events that serve racers, fans, and the surrounding community.”

“This acquisition represents more than reopening a racetrack,” said Leah Martin, President of IHRA. “It is about restoring opportunity for racers, families, and the community. This facility aligns with IHRA’s racer-first vision and our commitment to grassroots motorsports, while also allowing the property to support diverse uses that strengthen its year-round impact.”

“Memphis Motorsports Park holds a special place in our hearts,” said Daniel Horton, Assistant Director of the IHRA Stock Car Series. “Bobby Hamilton won the 2004 Craftsman Truck Series race here in a truck built by Tim and with Danny as the crew chief. With the facility now under the IHRA umbrella, we can give grassroots racers a chance to compete where legendary drivers such as Kevin Harvick, Randy LaJoie, and the late Greg Biffle have won. We are extremely excited to bring stock car racing back to Memphis and continue the legacy of this iconic track.”

In the coming days, IHRA will begin facility improvements and operational preparations. Fans and community members are encouraged to follow IHRA across its social media platforms for updates and behind-the-scenes coverage as revitalization efforts get underway. Further announcements regarding schedules and programming will be released in the near future.

From Pit Lane to Payouts: How Online Gambling Money Fuels Modern Motorsports

Motorsports can be genuinely called the multimillion industry. The current market valuation exceeds $6,689.6 million. By 2033, it is promised to reach $11,348.7 million due to the growing fanbase, streaming platforms, and digital media. A great number of investors have already been attracted to the niche due to the promise of the required research and development cycles. However, traditional “blue-chip” automotive and consumer brands cannot always satisfy the needs of the team, so motorsports companies are aggressively seeking alternative capital investments, such as the casino and sports betting industries.

This article explains how casino sponsorship has become an integral part of motorsport economics and what has changed for fans, teams, and general regulations.

Lots of things have changed since the motorsports niche began its collaboration with the gambling industry.

First, it preserves the required demographic focus. According to the 2025 research, 33% of F1 fans under 35 years old are more likely to watch the race if they deal with pre-race or live betting. As the sport is recognised globally, the number of online bettors is also growing progressively, bringing more high-value bettors for bookmakers. Besides, this sport is based on the last-minute decisions and high speed that perfectly fit online bettors.

Second, an increasing number of betting companies are now investing in the motorsports business. These are the differences between the blue chip and gambling investors’ goals.

Finally, gambling sponsorship stability allows top teams to advance their technical equipment and professional skills, while midfield teams get the “floor” funding needed to survive against top-tier constructors like Ferrari or Mercedes.

The relationship between racing and wagering has evolved from trackside bookmakers to deep corporate integration.

Title sponsorships, car liveries, and even junior driver academies now routinely depend on advertising budgets originating in the online casino and sports betting sector, blurring lines between fan engagement and wagering exposure across continents. Confirmed by Citeulike.org through longitudinal sponsorship tracking, this capital flow quietly reshapes team hierarchies, calendar politics, and broadcast narratives throughout the global motorsport ecosystem and governance.

Historical Context: From Tobacco to Tech to Gambling

The evolution of racing liveries reflects the changing tides of global regulation and sponsorship.

1. The Tobacco era (1970s–80s): Tobacco brands funded the motorsport’s first era of massive growth. Their investments were significant for both the improvement of track safety and drivers’ salaries.
2. Digital boom and alcohol brands (1990s-2000s). Due to health-related problems, tobacco sponsorship was technically banned, so the gap was filled with alcohol brands (Martini, Johnnie Walker, etc.) and technological giants (Microsoft, HP, and others).
3. The tech/crypto surge (2010s–2022): Digital platforms and crypto exchanges briefly dominated, but market volatility led to a search for more stable “vice” capital.
4. The gambling dominance (2023–Present): With the liberalization of sports betting in the U.S. and the rise of crypto-casinos, gambling brands now account for an estimated 70% of teams having at least one betting partner.

So, gambling sponsorships are now filling the gap. Teams benefit as gambling brands are willing to pay a premium for the rights to use real-time racing data—a revenue stream that didn’t exist in previous eras. Due to that, bookmakers can accept live bets and adapt odds simultaneously.

Where the Money Goes Inside Racing Teams

Betting capital isn’t just for marketing. The purpose goes beyond that.

• Investment in infrastructure: Multi-year deals allow teams to take out loans for major capital expenditures, such as building new state-of-the-art simulators or factory wings, using the guaranteed sponsorship income as collateral.
• Logistics & personnel: With a 24-race calendar, logistics costs (airfreight, hospitality, and trackside operations) have ballooned to over $50 million annually for top teams. Furthermore, this capital allows teams to protect their “human assets” by paying the competitive salaries required to keep elite aerodynamicists from being poached by rivals.
• Junior programs: Brands are now funding F2 and F3 driver seats, effectively betting on the future stars of the sport.
• Competitive parity: For smaller teams, these massive checks allow them to operate at the cost cap, closing the gap with “factory” teams.

Fan Engagement and Data Monetization

The integration of wagering has moved beyond simple stickers on a car. In 2025, Formula 1 appointed ALT Sports Data as an official partner to develop real-time predictive analytics and “micro-market” solutions for bettors. Moreover, live broadcasts now frequently integrate tire wear and pit strategy data with real-time betting odds, turning a passive viewing experience into an interactive one.
Yet, there are ethical concerns that center on the “normalization” of wagering for younger audiences, who are frequently exposed to high-volume betting branding during family-oriented broadcasts. All this can blur the line between sports fandom and gambling. It can give birth to a new generation of bettors through data-driven micro-targeting and the deceptive illusion of “skill-based” wagering.

Regulatory Pressure and Governance Challenges

Even though sponsorship is the key player in motorsport development, many countries ban betting ads, imposing massive fines for violations. That’s why teams now employ “compliance-flexible” branding, often swapping gambling logos for sister brands. Such a tendency is associated with the rise of gambling addiction. Teams simply refuse to advertise bookmakers to protect vulnerable viewers as advertising often leads to a constant tug-of-war between commercial interests and social responsibility.

Risks to Reputation and Integrity

The “normalization” of gambling in a sport with a growing youth audience has led to significant backlash. 2025 surveys show that while 76% of fans feel sponsors “enhance” the sport, a vocal minority is concerned about the gamification of a high-risk sport. That’s why series now employ independent monitors to track betting patterns and protect against any perception of match-fixing or technical manipulation.

Conclusion

Gambling capital has become a structural necessity for modern motorsports. It provides the financial sustainability required to host 24-race global calendars. However, as regulations tighten, teams must decide if the high-stakes payouts are worth the rising reputational and legal risks. So, track sponsorship dynamics to better understand the future of racing.

After testing a Mercedes GT3 car at Estoril and being happy with its performance, Max Verstappen Racing has announced a multi-year collaboration with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport, starting next year. Verstappen Racing will continue in the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, which, with the new program, highlights the next chapter in the Verstappen Racing project.

Stefan Wendl, Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing said: “We are delighted that Verstappen Racing has chosen to field a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the GT World Challenge Europe. With 2 Seas Motorsport, the project is supported by a highly experienced team that has already achieved numerous successes and championship titles with our car. Accordingly, we are very pleased about this extremely ambitious and promising project, as well as about another high-caliber entry in both the Sprint and Endurance programs of the GT World Challenge Europe.”

Chris Lulham will continue in 2026 with his racing program in the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup (GT World Sprint), marking Chris’s second pursuit in the series, where he will be partnered by his new Verstappen Racing teammate Daniel Juncadella. The 34-year-old Spanish driver has a lot of experience, also racing in a Mercedes-AMG GT3, to bring to the team. The pair will share the car, run by the 2 Seas Motorsport team, in the five rounds of the sprint championship, racing on some of the most iconic and historic circuits in Europe.

Chris Lulham explained: “It is really exciting to continue racing in the GT World Challenge Europe, now with a new teammate and new car. I have learned and experienced a lot in my first year of GT3 racing, and it’s an unbelievable opportunity to now be able to work with such professionals as Mercedes-AMG Motorsport and Daniel. I can’t wait to get started.”

Daniel Juncadella said: “I’m excited to be partnering up with Chris in the upcoming GT World Challenge Europe season and thankful for Verstappen Racing to be partnering up with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport. With the input that Max brings to the table, it’s a really strong project.”

Verstappen Racing will also continue supporting an entry into the highly competitive GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup (GT World Endurance). Chris Lulham and Daniel Juncadella will share the cockpit of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 with AMG Performance Driver Jules Gounon (French, age 30), across the five rounds of the highly anticipated GT World Endurance championship, which includes flagship races such as the 24 Hours of Spa.

Jules Gounon, Mercedes-AMG Performance Driver said: “As I have worked for years with Mercedes-AMG, it is just great to now continue to build on that experience, together with Verstappen Racing, Chris and Dani. It is a fantastic project that has all the ingredients to make it a success. I look forward to working together.”

Fairfield, OH — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has officially completed the acquisition of the historic motorsports facility in Millington, Tennessee, formerly known as Memphis International Raceway and Memphis Motorsports Park, closing on the property on December 23, 2025.

Originally opened in the late 1980s, the facility has played a significant role in American motorsports history. It has hosted major drag racing events and national touring series and was, at one point, sanctioned by IHRA, hosting IHRA-sanctioned drag racing events during that time. With the property now under IHRA ownership, the acquisition represents a full-circle moment that reconnects the track’s past with a renewed vision for its future.

The facility has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County. Under IHRA ownership, it will operate as a multi-use destination supporting drag racing, stock car competition, grassroots motorsports, and other large-scale events that engage the broader community and region.

“This investment honors the legacy of Memphis Motorsports Park while positioning it for a strong future. IHRA’s acquisition reflects confidence in our region and creates new opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and fan experiences.” said Mayor Paul Young, City of Memphis.

“As the Commissioner for District 1, I am thrilled about IHRA’s acquisition of Memphis Motorsports Park. This investment strengthens our local economy, puts world-class racing back on solid ground, and gives our families and young people a safe, exciting place to create memories for years to come. Having a national organization like IHRA committed to the long-term success of this historic facility is exactly the kind of partnership Shelby County needs.” said Amber Mills, Shelby County Commissioner, District 1, Shelby County Government.

“Memphis Motorsports Park has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County, and IHRA’s acquisition represents a positive step forward for the facility and the community. This investment supports the continued use of the track as a regional destination while creating opportunities for local businesses and future growth. The Millington Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with IHRA as this next chapter takes shape.” said Chris Thomas, Executive Director, Millington Area Chamber of Commerce.

“This is a special place in American motorsports,” said Darryl Cuttell, CEO of IHRA. “This facility has a deep history in drag racing and stock car competition, and our goal is to honor that legacy while building a strong, sustainable future. We are committed to bringing meaningful racing back to this property while expanding its role as a destination for a wide range of events that serve racers, fans, and the surrounding community.”

“This acquisition represents more than reopening a racetrack,” said Leah Martin, President of IHRA. “It is about restoring opportunity for racers, families, and the community. This facility aligns with IHRA’s racer-first vision and our commitment to grassroots motorsports, while also allowing the property to support diverse uses that strengthen its year-round impact.”

“Memphis Motorsports Park holds a special place in our hearts,” said Daniel Horton, Assistant Director of the IHRA Stock Car Series. “Bobby Hamilton won the 2004 Craftsman Truck Series race here in a truck built by Tim and with Danny as the crew chief. With the facility now under the IHRA umbrella, we can give grassroots racers a chance to compete where legendary drivers such as Kevin Harvick, Randy LaJoie, and the late Greg Biffle have won. We are extremely excited to bring stock car racing back to Memphis and continue the legacy of this iconic track.”

In the coming days, IHRA will begin facility improvements and operational preparations. Fans and community members are encouraged to follow IHRA across its social media platforms for updates and behind-the-scenes coverage as revitalization efforts get underway. Further announcements regarding schedules and programming will be released in the near future.

About the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA)

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is a multi-discipline motorsports organization focused on competitive excellence, grassroots growth, and modernized event experiences nationwide.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities: info@ihra.com
Media inquiries: media@ihra.com