I thought that ran at gainesville? That would nbe wild for IHRA to own it and operate it at NHRA's corporate track
2026
IHRA Acquires Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, Preserving a Legendary Legacy While Expanding the Future of Driver Development
FAIRFIELD, OH — March 31, 2026 — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the acquisition of Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, one of the most respected and influential driver development institutions in the history of motorsports.
For more than four decades, Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School has delivered world-class instruction to drag racers from across the globe. Its alumni include national event-winning drivers in both Professional and Sportsman categories, with more than 25,000 graduates having completed the school’s renowned programs.
The school will continue to operate with the same experienced staff, proven curriculum, equipment, and instructors that have defined its success—led by the master himself, Frank Hawley—now under IHRA ownership.
“When I met Darryl Cuttell, I was very impressed with his ambitious vision to grow the popularity of motorsports around the world,” said Hawley. “Darryl is working to coalesce motorsports entertainment with other traditional forms of entertainment at IHRA facilities. Our industry has been looking for leadership like this, and we are ready to join in the mission.”
Hawley added, “My entire life has been devoted to the sport of drag racing, and I can’t think of a better way to continue the legacy of our school than under the ownership of the IHRA.”
Darryl Cuttell emphasized the significance of the acquisition for the future of the sport. “Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School is one of the most important institutions our sport has ever known,” said Cuttell. “This is not about changing what works—it’s about protecting a legacy, investing in education and safety, and ensuring that racers at every level have access to the very best training in the world. IHRA is honored to carry this responsibility forward.”
Leah Martin, President of IHRA, highlighted the broader impact of the acquisition on racers and the sport as a whole. “Education is the foundation of safe, competitive, and sustainable racing,” said Martin. “Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School represents the gold standard in driver development. By bringing the school into the IHRA family, we are reinforcing our commitment to racers—giving them the tools, training, and pathways they need to grow from grassroots competition to the highest levels of the sport.”
The acquisition represents a strategic milestone in IHRA’s long-term vision to strengthen motorsports from the grassroots level through the professional ranks, while expanding access to education, safety programs, and career development opportunities worldwide.
Additional details regarding future programs and expanded offerings will be announced in the coming months.
About IHRA
Founded in 1971, the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is a leading motorsports sanctioning body based in the United States, supporting professional and grassroots racing programs across multiple disciplines. With a racer-first approach, IHRA focuses on safety, innovation, and strong partnerships with racers, tracks, and communities.
IHRA RACING
The International Hot Rod Association is the world’s premier drag racing organization, hosting events across North America.
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FAIRFIELD, OH — March 31, 2026 — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the acquisition of Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, one of the most respected and influential driver development institutions in the history of motorsports.
