GAINESVILLE, Fla. — NHRA’s special 75th anniversary season will open at famed Gainesville Raceway, as officials announced the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will begin March 5-8 with the 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals at the legendary facility.
It will also serve as the kickoff to the historic 75th NHRA season, one that will feature a yearlong celebration of NHRA drag racing.
Tickets for the 75th anniversary season opener in Gainesville will go on sale Aug. 25, while the full 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule will be announced soon.
The NHRA Gatornationals will be chocked full of special items to start the 75th anniversary season, including appearances by NHRA legends, special appearances and displays and so much more. Already one of the biggest and most incredible events on the NHRA tour, fans can expect something spectacular and legendary for the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals in 2026.
“As we prepare to celebrate the NHRA’s 75th anniversary in 2026, it’s very exciting to announce that we will launch this historic season at the Gatornationals — one of the most iconic events in our sport,” NHRA President Glen Cromwell said. “Gainesville has been a cornerstone of NHRA tradition for more than 50 years, and it’s the perfect venue to honor the NHRA’s rich history, our fans and all the incredible competitors who have made up NHRA drag racing.
“This event kicks off our 2026 and also starts a season-long celebration of the NHRA’s rich history, biggest moments and the incredible racing community that has been part of NHRA for 75 years. Starting in Gainesville, we can’t wait to showcase everything that makes the NHRA so special in 2026.”
