11,000-horsepower Nitro Top Fuel and Funny Cars will soon be thundering down Maryland International Raceway (MIR), as the IHRA President’s Cup Nationals returns on August 8-9, 2025. The prestigious event from the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is a legacy event with more than a few memories over the years.

President’s Cup Nationals

The President’s Cup Nationals has been a drag racing highlight for years, running from 1992 to 2010 and again from 2014 to 2016. It has delivered some incredible moments, like the first-ever all 6-second Pro Stock field in drag racing history in the 1994 edition. Over the years, the President’s Cup has featured prominent moments, like Scotty Cannon defeating Al Billes in Pro Mod at the 1992 debut, Mark Thomas winning the Funny Car title in 1993, and Jay Turner winning in Nitro Harleys in 1999.

In 2002, Jack Ostrander pulled off a major upset, ending Clay Millican’s perfect season in the first round, then beating Paul Romine in the Top Fuel final. The 2002 edition also saw more than 700 racers enter the event.

The Return To MIR

Royce Miller, owner of Maryland International Raceway, is thrilled about the return:

“We are beyond excited to welcome the IHRA President’s Cup Nationals and ‘Nitro Racing’ back to MIR. The nearly 20-year history of this event is filled with incredible moments for racers and fans alike. Thanks to the collaboration between IHRA and WDRA, we now have the opportunity to create even more unforgettable experiences. I hope everyone will join me in celebrating the return of this iconic event.”

Maryland International Raceway first opened in July 1966. Located in the Washington-Baltimore area, they host more than 100 events each year, including the World Cup Finals for Imports vs. Domestics, PDRA events, Hot Rod Drag Week 2025, and much more.

According to IHRA, details on tickets, additional race classes, and the full President’s Cup Nationals schedule will be shared soon.