The International Hot Rod Association has completed the acquisition of Memphis International Raceway in Millington, Tennessee, closing on the historic motorsports facility on December 23.
The purchase marks the latest expansion for an organisation that has diversified beyond drag racing in recent months, having acquired American F1 tunnel boat racing earlier this month.
The facility, which opened in 1987 and formerly operated as Memphis Motorsports Park, will function as a multi-use destination supporting drag racing, stock car competition, grassroots motorsports, and community events.
Full Circle Moment
IHRA previously sanctioned drag racing events at the Tennessee venue during its history, making the acquisition what chief executive Darryl Cuttell described as reconnecting the track’s past with its future.
Cuttell said:
This is a special place in American motorsports. This facility has a deep history in drag racing and stock car competition, and our goal is to honour that legacy while building a strong, sustainable future. We are committed to bringing meaningful racing back to this property while expanding its role as a destination for a wide range of events that serve racers, fans, and the surrounding community.
The 400-acre complex features a drag strip, a 0.75-mile oval track, a road course, and supporting infrastructure. It previously hosted NASCAR Nationwide Series and Craftsman Truck Series events before closing in 2009 due to financial difficulties.
Regional Support
Local officials welcomed the acquisition, citing its potential economic impact on Millington and Shelby County.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young said:
This investment honours the legacy of Memphis Motorsports Park while positioning it for a strong future. IHRA’s acquisition reflects confidence in our region and creates new opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and fan experiences.
Amber Mills, Shelby County Commissioner for District 1, emphasised the facility’s role in the community:
This investment strengthens our local economy, puts world-class racing back on solid ground, and gives our families and young people a safe, exciting place to create memories for years to come. Having a national organisation like IHRA committed to the long-term success of this historic facility is exactly the kind of partnership Shelby County needs.
Stock Car Heritage
Daniel Horton, assistant director of the IHRA Stock Car Series, highlighted the venue’s NASCAR history and personal connections to the facility.
Horton said:
Memphis Motorsports Park holds a special place in our hearts. Bobby Hamilton won the 2004 Craftsman Truck Series race here in a truck built by Tim and with Danny as the crew chief. With the facility now under the IHRA umbrella, we can give grassroots racers a chance to compete where legendary drivers such as Kevin Harvick, Randy LaJoie, and the late Greg Biffle have won. We are extremely excited to bring stock car racing back to Memphis and continue the legacy of this iconic track.
The facility hosted NASCAR events from 1998 through 2009, with the oval track drawing sold-out crowds during its peak years.
Next Steps
IHRA president Leah Martin framed the acquisition as part of the organisation’s broader strategy:
This acquisition represents more than reopening a racetrack. It is about restoring opportunity for racers, families, and the community. This facility aligns with IHRA’s racer-first vision and our commitment to grassroots motorsports, while also allowing the property to support diverse uses that strengthen its year-round impact.
IHRA will begin facility improvements and operational preparations in the coming days. The organisation has announced plans to release scheduling and programming details in the near future.
Chris Thomas, executive director of the Millington Area Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber looks forward to working with IHRA as the facility enters its next chapter.
John Moore’s involvement in powerboat racing began in 1981 when he competed in his first offshore powerboat race. After a career as a Financial Futures broker in the City of London, specialising in UK interest rate markets, he became actively involved in event organisation and powerboat racing journalism.
He served as Event Director for the Cowes–Torquay–Cowes races between 2010 and 2013. In 2016, he launched Powerboat Racing World, a digital platform providing global powerboat racing news and insights. The following year, he co-founded UKOPRA, helping to rejuvenate offshore racing in the United Kingdom. He sold Powerboat Racing World in late 2021 and remained actively involved with UKOPRA until 2025.
In 2025, he established Powerboat News, returning to independent journalism with a focus on neutral and comprehensive coverage of the sport.
