The International Hot Rod Association has been making huge waves in the drag racing community with some pretty unbelievable announcements and purchases over the past year and there is no sign of them slowing down. After announcing last week that the long abandoned Memphis Motorsports Park had been purchased, and would return to racing glory in 2025, they could have easily cruised through the end of 2025 with no trouble. But that’s not their style, so here we go with one last big announcement for 2025!
Yep, they have just announced the purchase of another abandoned track, Heartland Park Motorsports Park in Topeka, Kansas. This track has been plagued with poor management, bad deals, lack of support, and more for the past several years. Can IHRA finally turn this cool facility around? I think there are some fundamental changes that need to be made here, but those changes can definitely make a huge impact. Check out their plans below. 
We can’t wait to see what they do with it all!
IHRA Acquires Heartland Motorsports Park, Announces Vision to Restore Iconic Facility as a Destination Entertainment and Racing Complex
FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the acquisition of Heartland Motorsports Park in Topeka, Kansas, reinforcing IHRA’s long-term commitment to preserving motorsports history while reimagining legendary venues for the future.
Originally opened in 1963 as Topeka Dragway, the facility later evolved into Heartland Motorsports Park and became one of the most versatile motorsports complexes in the country. Over the decades, Heartland has hosted major national drag racing events, road racing, karting, motocross, and countless grassroots competitions, earning its reputation as a cornerstone of Midwest motorsports.
With this acquisition, Heartland Motorsports Park enters a new chapter — one that honors its storied past while positioning the property as a modern destination entertainment complex.
“Heartland Motorsports Park is one of those places that simply matters to racing,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of the International Hot Rod Association. “It has history, soul, and a footprint that allows us to think bigger than just a racetrack. Our goal is to restore this facility with respect for its legacy while building something that serves racers, fans, and the community for generations.”
A Destination for Racing, Music, and Community
IHRA’s long-term vision for Heartland Motorsports Park extends well beyond competition weekends. Planned restoration and redevelopment efforts will focus on creating a year-round destination that blends motorsports with live entertainment and community engagement, including:
· Revitalized drag racing operations with improved racer and fan amenities
· Expanded motorsports and special event programming
· Live music, concerts, and festival experiences
· Enhanced hospitality, vendor, and fan-experience areas
· Community-focused events designed to drive tourism and economic impact
“Motorsports has to evolve to stay strong,” Cuttell added. “The future is about creating places where racing, music, entertainment, and community come together. Heartland has all the pieces to become one of the premier motorsports and entertainment destinations in the country.”
The acquisition aligns with IHRA’s broader racer-first philosophy, which includes direct investment in facilities and infrastructure that strengthen grassroots racing, elevate national competition, and create sustainable motorsports ecosystems.
Renovation planning will begin immediately, with additional announcements regarding redevelopment phases, event schedules, and community partnerships expected in the coming months.
About the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA)
Founded in 1970, the International Hot Rod Association is one of the world’s premier motorsports sanctioning bodies, overseeing drag racing and a growing portfolio of motorsports disciplines. IHRA is committed to racer advocacy, innovation, safety, and creating dynamic racing and entertainment destinations that benefit competitors, fans, and host communities.
