IHRA Buying Spree Sparks Controversy in Motorsports

FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), once a longstanding but secondary player in drag racing, has transformed into an aggressive expander under owner Darryl Cuttell (pictured). In 2025 alone, IHRA acquired nearly a dozen historic tracks—spanning drag strips, oval circuits, and even powerboat racing series—fueling speculation about the strategy behind the spending spree.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Critics have questioned whether the moves reflect a cohesive business model or simply the whims of a wealthy entrepreneur. IHRA leadership insists there’s a deliberate plan: to become good stewards of motorsports by revitalizing dormant “crown jewel” venues, expanding into multiple disciplines, and creating racer-first experiences that prioritize fun, accessibility, and sustainability.

Cuttell, CEO and President of Darana Hybrid—a company with major contracts alongside SpaceX and Tesla—acquired IHRA in late 2024 and quickly accelerated its growth. In March 2025, he announced agreements to purchase seven premier drag racing facilities, followed by more throughout the year, including rebranded venues like Darana Raceway (formerly National Trail Raceway) and Darana Dragway (formerly Milan Dragway).

The spree continued with high-profile oval tracks: Rockingham Speedway, a storied NASCAR venue nicknamed “The Rock,” and Memphis International Raceway, a multi-configuration facility that hosted NASCAR, ARCA, and drag events until recent dormancy. IHRA also added Heartland Motorsports Park, Maple Grove Raceway, Piedmont Dragway, and others— reportedly totaling around 10 direct purchases in 2025.

In a major consolidation move, IHRA acquired the World Drag Racing Alliance (WDRA) in December 2025, instantly adding dozens of member tracks and bringing its total representation to 117 facilities across North America.

The expansion extends beyond land-based racing. IHRA entered powerboating with acquisitions of Powerboat P1 USA/P1 Offshore in October 2025 and F1 Powerboat Racing shortly after, unifying them under an IHRA Powerboating umbrella with a full 2026 schedule featuring offshore and tunnel-boat competition.

IHRA has also launched a Stock Car Series focused on Late Models for 2026, further diversifying its portfolio.

IHRA’s core business model centers on revitalization and multi-use development. Officials describe acquired tracks as “Infinity Stones”—historic assets needing recharge to become vibrant entertainment destinations with racing, concerts, dirt tracks, amphitheaters, and community events. For Memphis, plans include leveling much of the old facility while preserving iconic elements.

In a recent interview, IHRA Brand and Media Manager Scott Woodruff addressed speculation head-on: “Funding is not our issue. It’s got to be the right people in the right place.” He emphasized stewardship over abandonment of pedigreed venues, adding, “We’re trying to be good stewards of the sport… a lot of them are crown jewels that just need a little bit of love.”

President Leah Martin and other leaders frame the strategy around fan and competitor feedback: “What would we want as fans, competitors, and partners?” The approach includes larger purses for sportsman and economy classes, expanded broadcasting partnerships, and a “racer-first” philosophy contrasting with top-heavy pro series elsewhere.

While some observers see the diverse acquisitions as scattered, IHRA positions them as building a comprehensive, multi-discipline platform—drag racing at its core, but branching into ovals, powerboating, and beyond—to sustain and grow grassroots motorsports in an evolving industry.

With a packed 2026 schedule across its new properties and series, IHRA’s ambitious bet appears aimed at long-term legacy rather than short-term whims.