Photo credit: Nigel Kinrade Photography

A new owner takes over Rockingham Speedway

Rockingham Speedway is no longer for sale. A new owner has taken control of the historic track as it prepares for its second season hosting NASCAR.

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According to a press release, the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) purchased Rockingham Speedway in an effort to preserve motorsports history while reinvesting in "legendary racing properties."

IHRA noted that it plans to restore the 1-mile paved track while making it a multi-purpose facility. The list of improvements includes facility upgrades and expanded fan amenities. IHRA also plans on bringing in concerts and festival-style experiences.

"IHRA recognizes what Rockingham Speedway means to this community and to motorsports fans around the world," said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA.

"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."

The Rock started hosting Cup Series races in the 1960s, and it expanded over the years to feature the second and third-tier series. However, NASCAR stopped visiting the 1-mile track in 2004. It remained off the schedule until last season, when it made a triumphant return.

The Rock hosted the Craftsman Truck Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series on Easter weekend as Sammy Smith and Tyler Ankrum both celebrated wins. Brent Crews won an ARCA Menards Series East race that same weekend.

NASCAR added Rockingham Speedway to the 2026 schedule as the track remained available for purchase. The ARCA Menards Series East, Craftsman Truck Series, and O'Reilly Auto Parts Series will all return on April 3-4.

With new owners taking over the historic track, the plan is for this race weekend to only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

"For decades, The Rock has been one of our community's most recognizable and celebrated tourism icons," said Meghann Lambeth, Executive Director of the Richmond County Tourism Development Authority.

"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 (IHRA)."