South Georgia’s Big Break: NHRA Southern Nationals Arrive in 2026

The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) is marking its 75th anniversary in style, and fans in Georgia will have front-row seats to history. The sanctioning body unveiled its 2026 national event schedule, a 20-race slate that not only celebrates the sport’s past but looks firmly toward its future. Among the most notable changes is the addition of South Georgia Motorsports Park (SGMP) near Valdosta, Georgia, which will host the prestigious NHRA Southern Nationals from May 1–3, 2026.

For the first time since 2013, the NHRA has introduced a new venue to its national series, and for Georgia fans, the return of a Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event is long overdue. The last Southern Nationals were staged in 2021 at the now-closed Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, leaving a void for Southeastern drag racing enthusiasts. SGMP’s inclusion represents both a symbolic and practical victory for fans, racers, and the local community.

A Resurgence in South Georgia

The track, owned and operated for the past three years by Raul and Jennifer Torres, has quickly become one of Cook County’s biggest attractions. Their leadership has revived the facility with packed schedules of bracket races, specialty events, and regional competitions. Hosting a marquee NHRA event marks the culmination of that growth and sets the stage for even bigger opportunities.

“We have been working closely with all our elected officials to be good neighbors and also to be an economic catalyst for the South Georgia area,” said Raul Torres. “Hosting an NHRA national event will raise awareness for the area and bring in new dollars to the surrounding community. We are excited about the opportunity to host this event.”

The economic ripple is expected to extend well beyond the track. With Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle teams descending on Valdosta, hotels, restaurants, and local businesses will benefit from the thousands of traveling fans who make drag racing weekends their vacation destination.

Legacy Lane Wall: Building for the Future

The announcement also coincides with SGMP’s capital improvement campaign, highlighted by the Legacy Lane Wall project. Fans, racers, and businesses can purchase engraved bricks or tiles—$200 for terracotta or $250 for black granite—to leave a permanent mark at the facility. The wall will serve not only as a fundraiser for grandstand and suite upgrades but also as a community centerpiece for fan recognition.

“One of the biggest reasons we decided to take on South Georgia Motorsports Park is because of the wonderful community that was a part of it,” Torres explained. “The Legacy Lane Wall is a way for all parts of our support system to play a role in our success.”

To add excitement, purchasers over the next 50 days will be randomly selected for prizes, including tickets to upcoming events. It’s yet another way the Torres family is weaving fans directly into the story of SGMP’s growth.

Looking Ahead to 2026

For Raul and Jennifer Torres, securing an NHRA national event is both a reward and a responsibility.

“This is a dream come true,” said Raul Torres. “When my wife, Jennifer, and I bought the track two years ago we wanted to build a community for drag racers and fans to enjoy quality family entertainment. We have put in a lot of blood, sweat and some tears to get to this point. We are dedicated to hosting premiere events at every level and adding the NHRA Southern Nationals next season will be a great opportunity and challenge. We are up to the task, and we can’t wait to roll out the red carpet for thousands of fans from across the country.”

As the NHRA celebrates 75 years of racing excellence, the Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park will be more than just another race weekend—it will be a symbol of renewal for Georgia drag racing and a showcase for the sport’s enduring future