A capacity crowd packed World Wide Technology Raceway on Saturday, as the NHRA and track officials announced a sellout at the 14th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals. The event highlighted both the momentum of the Countdown to the Championship and the facility’s recent upgrades.
“Today’s sold-out crowd at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals in St. Louis showcases the unmatched passion of our drag racing fans,” NHRA President Glen Cromwell said. “World Wide Technology Raceway’s significant investments in expanding the facility, upgrading grandstands and suites, and elevating the fan experience have transformed this venue into a premier destination for motorsports. Today’s enthusiastic turnout is a powerful testament to the value of our fans and the strength of this track within the NHRA community.”
St. Louis marks the midpoint of the NHRA Mission Foods Countdown to the Championship, a six-race playoff that often reshapes title hopes. Drivers have long said, “Everything changes in St. Louis,” and the track’s reputation continues to back that up.
World Wide Technology Raceway recently added a new East Grandstand that opened just before the event, improving capacity and sightlines. Additional video screens across the Nitro 2 and West Grandstands also gave fans better access to the action.
The facility improvements played a role in drawing the strong turnout. Track officials said the changes are part of a long-term commitment to building the venue into one of the premier destinations for drag racing in the Midwest.
The Midwest Nationals have produced dramatic shifts in the championship standings in years past. Saturday’s sellout confirmed the race’s continued importance to both fans and competitors at a crucial stage of the season.
Eliminations are scheduled to begin Sunday at 11 a.m. CT.
BOBBY BENNETT: WHY THE “GOOD OLD DAYS” AREN’T BETTER THAN TODAY