Last Updated on September 25, 2026 by WWTR
MADISON, Ill. (Sept. 25, 2026) – Championship hopes, 330-mph nitro machines and a celebration of NHRA’s 75-year legacy will take center stage when the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals returns to World Wide Technology Raceway Oct. 2-4.
As the midway point in the Countdown to the Championship, the 15th annual event carries major title implications as the sport’s biggest stars battle for every point in pursuit of a world championship. Combined with a season-long celebration of NHRA’s 75th anniversary, the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals promises a weekend filled with historic significance and high-stakes racing.
The NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals continues to put the pressure on the Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle drivers as crucial points are on the line that could change the trajectory of the championship. With only three races remaining after this stop, every pass is critical for points to determine the 2026 champion.
The event also comes during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, celebrating seven decades of drag racing excellence. The milestone adds another layer of significance to a race weekend that has become a staple on the NHRA schedule and one of the premier motorsports events in the St. Louis region.
Fans can experience the thrill of the Nitro categories with Top Fuel and Funny Car producing more than 11,000 horsepower as they tear down the dragstrip at over 330 mph. The 2025 event saw Brittany Force set a new track record for Top Fuel when she tore down the track at a top speed of 340.47 mph.
Racing action begins Friday, Oct. 2, with two nitro qualifying sessions under the lights. Top Fuel and Funny Car competitors will make their first runs at 5:30 p.m., followed by a second round of qualifying at 8 p.m. Qualifying continues Saturday, Oct. 3, with nitro action scheduled for noon and the final round of qualifying at 2:30 p.m., setting the field for Sunday’s eliminations.
It all comes down to championship Sunday on Oct. 4, when the sport’s top competitors begin eliminations at 9 a.m. Prior to the start of racing, fans are invited to participate in the SealMaster Track Walk and pre-race ceremonies beginning at 8 a.m. Full weekend schedule can be found HERE.
Throughout the weekend, fans can get up close to the stars of the NHRA as all event tickets include access to the professional pits.
Tickets for the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals are available at WWTRaceway.com or by calling the ticket office at (618) 215-8888, ext. 1.
