The NHRA will kick off its landmark 75th anniversary season at one of drag racing’s most iconic venues, as officials announced today that the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will begin March 5–8 with the 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway.

The historic event will serve as the opening round of the 2026 campaign and the official start of a yearlong celebration commemorating 75 years of NHRA drag racing. Tickets for the anniversary season opener will go on sale August 25, while the complete 2026 schedule is expected to be released in the near future.

In honor of the milestone season, the 2026 NHRA Gatornationals will feature a host of special programming, including appearances by NHRA legends, commemorative displays, and exclusive fan experiences. Known for its deep-rooted tradition and memorable moments, the Gatornationals has long been one of the premier stops on the NHRA tour, and its role as the anniversary season opener is expected to elevate the event to new heights.

“As we prepare to celebrate the NHRA’s 75th anniversary in 2026, it’s very exciting to announce that we will launch this historic season at the Gatornationals — one of the most iconic events in our sport,” said NHRA President Glen Cromwell. “Gainesville has been a cornerstone of NHRA tradition for more than 50 years, and it’s the perfect venue to honor the NHRA’s rich history, our fans and all the incredible competitors who have made up NHRA drag racing.”

Cromwell added that the 2026 season will feature a series of tributes and special events to highlight the organization’s most defining moments, as well as the community of racers and fans who have contributed to its growth over the past seven and a half decades.

Additional details regarding the 75th anniversary celebrations at Gainesville, including scheduled appearances and special attractions, will be released in the coming months.

The NHRA Gatornationals has played a pivotal role in the history of the sport, with a reputation for producing record-breaking performances and career-defining victories. In 2026, it will once again take center stage—this time as the ceremonial starting line for a season dedicated to honoring NHRA’s rich legacy.