A reinvigorated IHRA continues to move toward an attempt to return to prominence in 2025. Just days after revealing a new series sponsor, a Facebook Live presentation confirmed that Darryl Cuttell, CEO of Darana Hybrid, the new IHRA series sponsor, had purchased the series to return it to a viable drag racing entity.
The deal to purchase IHRA and its assets from Larry Jeffers was finalized on Wednesday afternoon.
“The IHRA isn’t just some hobby. It’s a business that I’m passionate about,” Cuttell said. “This is a needed move for the drag racing community. We’re going to start by building on the foundation of Sportsman racing and returning the IHRA to its former glory.”
Cuttell’s purchase is the IHRA’s second significant announcement since the PRI Trade Show, contending that it will return to the glory days it once held up until 2008.
Last Saturday at the PRI trade show, the IHRA announced that Cuttell’s Darana Hybrid had entered into a multi-year title sponsorship. The multi-year title sponsorship will lead to significant purse increases in the IHRA SuperSeries and the return of both Nitro Jam and Pro-Am events. Cuttell felt the need to make a larger commitment, underscored by his acquisition of the organization.
Cuttell is a master electrician and member of the Tuscarora Native American Nation, operating his business in alignment with the Native American Code of Ethics. He emphasizes collaboration and knowledge sharing as essential for mutual strength.
As a passionate drag racer, Cuttell drives a 1970 Pro Mod Camaro and operates his companies with the motto, “Make It Happen.” Wednesday, he made it happen.
The deal was expedited after newly appointed IHRA President Kenny Nowling presented a partnership proposal to Cuttell at last week’s PRI show. By Saturday, the title sponsorship announcement was made, paving the way for Cuttell’s ownership.
“This is a dream come true,” Nowling said. “The entire IHRA team will work around the clock to return the IHRA to its former glory.”
Also announced was the three-race revived Nitro Jam Series featuring both Nitro classes, Pro Modified, Mountain Motor Pro Stock, and a 500-inch Pro Stock division, allowing electronic fuel injection and carburetors. A full slate of Top Alcohol divisions and sportsman categories are expected in those events.
Future IHRA plans include relocating the series offices to just outside of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a building to house a forthcoming IHRA Hall of Fame, which promises to embrace the rich history of the series launched in 1971 by Tennesseans Larry Carrier and Sen. Carl Moore.
Before threading the needle on professional drag racing, the IHRA’s leadership was working on setting the cornerstone of the series.
“I want our sportsman racers to know first and foremost, they are our foundation,” Nowling said. “From the moment we started working on this, it had to be that way for this to work. They’ll always be our point of emphasis. They have, and they always will be. That’s why we increased those payouts dramatically.”
The IHRA will announce additional plans on Thursday, Jan. 2, at 11 a.m. Eastern during the #IHRAReturnToGlory press conference. The press conference will be held at the newest IHRA track partner, which will be announced on Dec. 23.
