NHRA officials have unveiled the second wave of commemorative tickets for the sanctioning body’s 75th anniversary season, extending a program that highlights key figures from drag racing history. The next five events will feature a mix of pioneering legends and current stars as part of the milestone 2026 campaign.
The initiative builds on the first set of releases tied to the opening races of the season. Officials said the program is designed to connect fans with the sport’s past while reinforcing its present-day relevance.
The newly announced group covers races six through 10 on the schedule, each tied to a specific honoree. The selections include Chris “The Greek” Karamesines in Chicago, Shirley Muldowney in Maryland, the Tasca Super Stock Cobra Jet in Epping, Clay Millican in Bristol, and Jim Head in Norwalk.
This second phase continues a strategy centered on storytelling through collectible items. It also reflects NHRA’s broader push to leverage its 75-year history as part of the 2026 season narrative.
The Chicago event will spotlight Karamesines, a longtime figure in Top Fuel and one of the sport’s early innovators. His inclusion positions the Route 66 Raceway event as a retrospective on a career that helped shape the category.
In Maryland, Muldowney will be featured at Maryland International Raceway during the NHRA Potomac Nationals. The three-time world champion remains one of the most influential figures in drag racing, particularly for her role in breaking barriers within the sport.
The Epping stop will recognize Bob Tasca and the Tasca family at New England Dragway. Their contributions to the Ford Cobra Jet program provide a direct link between factory performance development and NHRA competition.
At Bristol Dragway, Millican will be the featured driver for the Thunder Valley Nationals. His first NHRA Top Fuel victory in 2019 at his home track remains a defining moment, giving the selection both competitive and emotional context.
Norwalk’s event will highlight Jim Head, whose career spans driving and team ownership. Doug and Connie Kalitta will also be recognized during the race, adding another layer of historical significance to the weekend.
Each commemorative ticket is designed as a standalone collectible tied to its respective event. Fans can purchase the items online or through on-site activation, where signage will direct attendees to ordering options.
The tickets will be available throughout the 2026 season, with each design specific to its race. NHRA officials noted the items will only be produced during the anniversary year, reinforcing their limited-edition status.
The first wave of tickets featured Kenny Bernstein, Don Prudhomme, Matt Hagan, and Don Garlits, establishing a baseline that blends foundational figures with modern champions. That approach continues in the second wave, maintaining continuity across eras.
Looking ahead, additional releases are planned for events in Sonoma, Seattle, Brainerd, Indianapolis, and Martin, Michigan. Those announcements are expected to introduce another group of honorees, further expanding the anniversary tribute.
