The IHRA has acquired Empire Dragway, adding a longtime Northeast drag racing facility to its growing portfolio of owned tracks and expanding the sanctioning body’s presence in the region.
Located in Leicester, New York, Empire Dragway has served racers and fans in the Northeast for decades and previously hosted major IHRA national-event competition.
The track first held an IHRA national event in 1972, when Chris Karamesines won Top Fuel. Empire later returned to the IHRA national schedule in 1989 and remained a regular stop through 2002.
Among current professional racers, Del Worsham and Jay Turner are the only active competitors with professional victories at the facility from that period. Worsham won in Funny Car, while Turner captured back-to-back Nitro Harley wins in 1999 and 2000.
Current IHRA television analyst Tommy Johnson Jr. also competed there, finishing runner-up in Top Fuel to Paul Romine in 1998.
IHRA owner Darryl Cuttell said the acquisition aligns with the organization’s long-term plans.
“This is exactly the kind of facility we want to invest in,” Cuttell said. “Empire Dragway has a strong foundation and a loyal racing community. Our goal is to build on that momentum. We will be bringing more opportunities for racers, bigger events for fans, and ensuring this track continues to thrive for years to come.”
Former owner Jerry Scaccia said he believes the track is positioned well for the future.
“Empire Dragway has meant so much to me and to this community over the years,” Scaccia said. “I’m proud of what we’ve built here, and I truly believe IHRA is the right group to take it to the next level.”
Empire Dragway is already scheduled to host the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series and Small Tire BRATZ Series on July 23-25, 2026.
“Their vision for the future of the sport and commitment to racers gives me full confidence that Empire is in great hands,” Scaccia said.
