The Memphis Motorsports Park in Millington, Tennessee, will rejoin the NASCAR landscape in 2026 following its acquisition by the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA). This development marks a pivotal moment for fans and legends such as Kevin Harvick, as the venue prepares for renewed racing excitement, fulfilling a long-standing community and sporting legacy.
Reviving a Legendary Venue in Tennessee
Memphis Motorsports Park, first opened in the late 1980s, features a 0.75-mile oval and has been an important draw for visitors in both Millington and greater Shelby County. Its history is rich with memorable competitions and serves as a cornerstone for motorsports in the region. Under the stewardship of the IHRA, the facility is expected to host drag racing events, stock car competitions, and a wide range of motorsport activities that appeal to both grassroots racers and longtime fans.
The track’s reputation is further highlighted by the fact that legendary NASCAR drivers—including Kevin Harvick, Brad Keselowski, Randy LaJoie, and the late Greg Biffle—have all celebrated victories there. With the property now under IHRA’s care, significant upgrades and facility improvements are planned, ensuring its readiness for major events in the near future.
Commitment to Grassroots and Community Racing
Daniel Horton, who serves as assistant director of the IHRA Stock Car Series, expressed strong enthusiasm for the track’s new chapter, particularly with respect to its historical significance and the opportunities it brings for the next generation of competitors.
“Memphis Motorsports Park holds a special place in our hearts,” he said. “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.”
Leah Martin, president of the IHRA, underscored the broader purpose behind the acquisition, emphasizing that the move is intended to foster opportunity and growth for participants and the surrounding community.
“This acquisition represents more than reopening a racetrack. 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.”
The IHRA has communicated that additional details about specific events, race schedules, and programming will be shared soon via its official social media channels, as excitement continues to build for the venue’s anticipated reopening.
Industry Optimism and Efforts Toward Improvement
Broader industry figures have weighed in on the challenges and ongoing advancements within the world of NASCAR. Former driver Kenny Wallace, who remains an influential voice, commented on the sport’s recent difficulties but also its determination to move forward and reconnect with its fanbase.
“I know for a fact that NASCAR is all hands on deck,” the NASCAR veteran said. “They are going to make it right. This does make me happy. They realize what happened, and now it took them a while, and they definitely made some decisions that were not the way to go, let’s put it that way. It’s easy for all of us to look back and go, yeah, we shouldn’t have done that.”
This season’s spotlight also includes anticipation for the NASCAR Cook Out Clash Cup Series, which will launch at Winston-Salem’s Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1, 2026. Fans can follow the action live on FOX or tune in to radio broadcasts on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Looking Ahead to a New Chapter for Memphis and NASCAR
The revival of Memphis Motorsports Park stands as a testament to both the nostalgia and the innovation running through American motorsports. As the track prepares to host future stock car and drag racing events, attention will focus on the impact for the community, local racers, and the sport’s passionate base. The return of racing to Memphis in 2026 is expected to foster fresh enthusiasm, spotlight the achievements of drivers like Kevin Harvick, and contribute to the region’s reputation as a home for motorsport excellence.
