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North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has allocated millions to improve three speedways.
The International Hot Rod Association has purchased Rockingham Speedway, adding another historic motorsports venue to its growing portfolio. The acquisition was confirmed in an official IHRA press release. The purchase follows IHRA’s recent acquisition of Memphis Motorsports Park and continues the organization’s expansion into track ownership and facility management.
Rockingham Speedway, widely known as “The Rock,” recently completed a major restoration project that included a full repave of the racing surface. The work returned the 0.94-mile oval to racing condition and positioned the track for continued national-level events.
IHRA confirms purchase and plans
According to the IHRA official press release, the organization plans to continue investing in Rockingham Speedway following the sale, with a focus on preserving the track’s history while improving the overall fan experience. A report by RacingNews.co writer Shane Walters also detailed IHRA’s next steps for the facility.
“The IHRA intends to expand on the upgrades, the report stated. Those plans include facility upgrades, expanded fan amenities, and the addition of entertainment elements such as concerts and festival-style experiences alongside marquee racing events.”
IHRA stated in its release that the organization intends to restore Rockingham Speedway to its former prominence while enhancing the venue as a multi-use destination. Planned improvements aim to keep the track active beyond race weekends while maintaining its traditional racing identity.
The purchase reflects IHRA’s broader strategy of reinvesting in historic motorsports venues while creating sustainable, fan-focused facilities.
NASCAR events scheduled at Rockingham for 2026
Rockingham Speedway is scheduled to host a national NASCAR weekend during Easter weekend in April 2026, according to the IHRA press release. The event will build on momentum from 2025, when NASCAR’s return to the track delivered strong attendance and national television exposure.
The April 2026 weekend is expected to feature the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series West, along with a full slate of on-track activity and fan-focused programming throughout the holiday weekend. IHRA noted that additional announcements regarding schedules and event details will be released in the coming months.
The IHRA release also confirmed that the organization is in discussions with experienced industry partners, including Bob Sargent and Track Enterprises, as part of its long-term planning for Rockingham Speedway beginning in 2026.
Darryl Cuttell and local leaders respond
IHRA owner Darryl Cuttell addressed the significance of Rockingham Speedway in comments included in the official IHRA press release.
“IHRA recognizes what Rockingham Speedway means to this community and to motorsports fans around the world, Cuttell said. This is a special place with a strong foundation. Our goal is to be good stewards of the facility, respect its history, and work collaboratively to bring quality racing and entertainment back to The Rock.”
Cuttell later emphasized that IHRA does not plan to change what defines the track.
“This isn’t about changing what made Rockingham special Cuttell said.” “It’s about investing in it, taking care of it, and making sure it continues to be a place where great racing and great memories are made.”
Local tourism officials also welcomed the announcement. Meghann Lambeth, Executive Director of the Richmond County Tourism Development Authority, also spoke in the IHRA press release.
“For decades, The Rock has been one of our community’s most recognizable and celebrated tourism icons, Lambeth said. We’re proud to continue supporting Rockingham Speedway as it draws visitors to Rockin’ Richmond County under the new ownership of the International Hot Rod Association.”
With NASCAR events scheduled and further upgrades planned, Rockingham Speedway remains active on the national racing calendar as IHRA begins its stewardship of the historic facility.
Dogli Wilberforce is a sports writer who covers NASCAR, Formula 1 and IndyCar Series for Heavy Sports. With bylines at Total Apex Sports and Last Word on Sports, Wilberforce has built a reputation for delivering timely, engaging coverage that blends sharp analysis with accessible storytelling. Wilberforce has covered everything from major football transfers to fight-night drama, bringing readers the insight and context behind the headlines. More about Dogli Wilberforce
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