Jeff Gordon joins IROC for the Heritage Invitational taking place at the Ten Tenths Motor Club in Concord, North Carolina, on Friday, April 10, with fellow Hall of Famer Kurt Busch. Their participation brings added excitement to this historic motorsports event, which features legendary drivers competing in authentic IROC cars.
Historic Significance of IROC’s Return
The International Race of Champions, known for its unique competition from 1973 to 2006, set itself apart by bringing together top talents from NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1, and sports car racing to compete in identical vehicles. This year’s Heritage Invitational sees IROC come back to life, offering fans a rare opportunity to watch notable drivers and accomplished amateur racers take the wheel of vintage IROC cars used between 1974 and 2006.
An Impressive Field of Competitors
With Jeff Gordon and Kurt Busch now part of the lineup, the IROC field at the Heritage Invitational features a range of motorsports icons. Gordon, a four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and past IROC race winner, competed in the series from 1995 through 2000. Busch, who won the NASCAR Cup championship in 2004, captured the IROC title in his rookie year in 2003.
They’ll race alongside Scott Pruett, a five-time IMSA champion and prominent IROC contender; Max Papis, celebrated for his success in NASCAR and sports cars; Tommy Kendall, known for his IMSA GTS championship and domination in Trans Am; and Tomy Drissi, a longtime competitor in Trans Am and professional sports car racing.
The roster also includes Bobby Labonte, the 2000 NASCAR Cup Series champion; Mark Martin, whose five IROC championships mark the most in the history of the series; and Ken Schrader, versatile across racing categories and a notable IROC participant.
Legacy and Impact of the IROC Series
Through the decades, IROC has served as a rare meeting ground for top-tier talent from different forms of motorsport, placing stars like Scott Pruett, Ken Schrader, and Mark Martin on equal terms. The series has long celebrated both their individual achievements and their ability to adapt, highlighting the skills of diverse champions by pitting them in identical machinery. The same spirit continues at the 2026 Heritage Invitational, underscoring IROC’s role in uniting drivers across racing disciplines.
Special Appearances and Notable Guests
The event will also feature Al Unser Jr., a two-time CART champion, two-time IROC champion, and dual Indianapolis 500 winner, who will be at the Heritage Invitational as an official IROC ambassador. The Unser family’s remarkable achievements in IROC history highlight the mix of tradition, legacy, and cross-discipline appeal that this event aims to celebrate for veteran drivers and new fans alike.
Event Schedule and Other Activities
The Heritage Invitational runs across three days and offers more than just IROC action. The festivities begin on Thursday, April 9, with the Hendrick Heritage Dinner, recognizing key contributors to the automotive community. Friday, April 10, not only features the IROC race but also includes Vintage Indy exhibitions and a celebrity Pro-Am event. On Saturday, April 11, the Heritage Invitational Concours will showcase significant vehicles representing the artistry, innovation, and vibrant history of automobiles and motorsports culture.
What Fans Can Expect at the Heritage Invitational
For longtime motorsports followers and new guests alike, the Heritage Invitational promises a gathering of legendary drivers, iconic race cars, and memorable experiences. Fans can expect an authentic celebration of motorsport’s past, connecting influential figures such as Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, and Al Unser Jr. in a setting that honors the enduring legacy of IROC.
Ticket Information and Final Details
For those interested in witnessing Jeff Gordon join IROC and enjoying the Heritage Invitational firsthand, ticket information, schedules, and latest updates are available at HeritageInvitational.com. The event stands as one of the highlights on the motorsports calendar for vintage racing enthusiasts and those eager to see legends of the track compete once again.
