HIGH-OCTANE EVENT RETURNS
Top 5 things to know about NHRA 4-Wide Nationals' return to zMAX Dragway
Experience the thrill and intensity of this weekend's NHRA 4-Wide Nationals — fans' only chance to witness the adrenaline-pumping spectacle of four-wide drag racing live.
NHRA
CONCORD — The NHRA 4-Wide Nationals roar back into zMAX Dragway this weekend as the series celebrates its 75th season, bringing one of motorsports' most unique spectacles to the "Bellagio of Dragstrips."
Here are five things fans should know heading into the high-octane event:
1. Four-wide racing takes center stage
The signature attraction remains the only four-wide drag racing event on the NHRA schedule, with four cars launching side-by-side in a thunderous sprint to the finish line. The format creates a fastpaced, unpredictable show with constant action throughout the weekend.
2. Street Outlaws stars debut new series
A major addition this year is the Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series, making its 2026 debut. Featuring well-known "Street Outlaws" drivers such as Shawn Ellington, Ryan Martin, Scott Taylor and Jeff Lutz, the 10-driver field will compete in qualifying rounds Friday and Saturday before Sunday's semifinals and finals.
3. Fans can ride — or drift — into the action
Interactive experiences add to the weekend's appeal. RevZilla will offer free beginner motorcycle ride sessions for fans 16 and older with certified coaching, while Dodge Thrill Rides gives attendees a chance to experience drifting and high-speed maneuvers in the new 2026 Dodge Charger SIXPACK.
4. Entertainment extends beyond the track
The Speedway Children's Charities 50/50 raffle returns, giving fans a chance to win half the jackpot while supporting local children's programs. Displays, vehicle showcases and a festival-like atmosphere aim to make the event family-friendly.
5. Every ticket includes pit access
Fans won't just watch from the stands. Every ticket includes access to the pits, where spectators can meet drivers, get autographs and watch crews rebuild 44,000-horsepower machines between rounds — offering a behind-the-scenes look rarely found in other sports.
Tickets remain available through Charlotte Motor Speedway, with a full weekend of racing and fan activities scheduled at zMAX Dragway.
4 moments that shaped 4-Wide
From historic firsts to record-breaking runs, the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals have produced some of the sport's most unforgettable moments, including:
2010: A historic debut
The first-ever NHRA 4-Wide Nationals delivered instantly. John Force — the winningest driver in NHRA history — captured Funny Car victory, cementing his place in another milestone moment.
• Winners also included Corey McClenathan (Top Fuel), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and North Carolina's Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle).
• The result: A groundbreaking event that changed drag racing forever.
2018: Underdogs take over
Independent teams stole the spotlight in one of the most surprising years.
• Steve Torrence powered to Top Fuel victory, launching a run of five straight zMAX Dragway wins.
• Cruz Pedregon snapped a 92-race winless streak for an emotional Funny Car triumph.
• Brittany and Courtney Force made history together as No. 1 qualifiers.
2021: Records fall, stars rise
Speed reached new heights — literally.
• Three Pro Stock Motorcycle riders topped 202 mph, highlighted by Eddie Krawiec's national record of 203.49 mph.
• Meanwhile, Mooresville's Dallas Glenn earned his first career victory, signaling a new generation of talent.
2025: A milestone moment
History hit a major benchmark.
• Shawn Langdon won the NHRA's 1,000th Top Fuel event.
• NHRA legend Don Garlits — winner of the first Top Fuel race in 1963 — presented a special trophy, bridging generations of greatness.
This weekend marks the next chapter in NHRA 4-Wide racing history. Fans will be treated to back-toback days of four-wide qualifying on Friday and Saturday, setting the stage for an action-packed elimination Sunday at the Bellagio of drag strips.
Bonus racing
The Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series debuts alongside NHRA competition, bringing Street Outlaws stars Shawn Ellington, Ryan Martin, Scott Taylor and Jeff Lutz to the track for qualifying and eliminations.
