ROCKINGHAM, N.C. (WBTV) – A historic NASCAR racetrack in North Carolina has been sold, with a “long-term vision” in mind.
The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) confirmed in a Dec. 31 news release that it bought Rockingham Speedway.
News broke in May 2025 that the historic 0.94-mile oval was for sale, just weeks after NASCAR made its long-awaited return.
That return came in April over Easter weekend, when NASCAR’s then Xfinity and Truck series — the sport’s second and third-tier series, respectively — competed on Good Friday and the Saturday right after.
Ticket’s to the Saturday race sold out and fans in attendance got to see an exciting race. Notably, NASCAR’s highest level — the Cup Series — did not race at Rockingham in 2025, and will not in 2026 either.
The Xfinity Series — now known as the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series — and trucks will be back at the Richmond County track in 2026.
Prior to the 2025 races at Rockingham, NASCAR’s second level had not competed there since 2004, and the trucks had not since 2013. The Cup Series has not raced there since 2004.
Some of NASCAR’s biggest names have won at the track known as “The Rock,” including Dale Earnhardt, Richard Petty, Jeff Gordon, Bobby Allison and many more.
“This is a special place with a strong foundation,” IHRA owner Darryl Cuttell said in the news release. “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.”
In its release, the IHRA said the purchase came with a “long-term vision.” The IHRA said it “intends to restore Rockingham Speedway to its former glory while enhancing the venue as a multi-use destination.”
Part of that enhancement will include facility upgrades, expanded fan amenities, and more entertainment and events.
“This isn’t about changing what made Rockingham special,” Cuttell said. “It’s about investing in it, taking care of it, and making sure it continues to be a place where great racing and great memories are made.”
It was not immediately clear how much the racetrack sold for.
In addition to the O’Reilly Auto Parts and Truck series return in 2026, the ARCA Menards Series will also compete at The Rock. The race weekend is again set for the week of Easter, with races scheduled April 3-4.
Tickets for the 2026 races at Rockingham Speedway are on sale now and can be bought here.
FILE PHOTO — The Rockingham Speedway property was sold, with a “long-term vision” in mind.(Gerry Broome | AP)
Previous Coverage: Historic North Carolina speedway up for sale just weeks after NASCAR returned
Watch continuous news coverage here:
Copyright 2025 WBTV. All rights reserved.
