NHRA Boosts Purse and Updates Program for Summit Racing Series World Championship in Las Vegas

NHRA has revealed new changes for the Summit Racing Series World Championship, including a higher prize purse and new features for the major event in Las Vegas. This year’s world finals will be held at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway from October 30 to November 2.

The race falls during the NHRA Nevada Nationals and brings together 32 champions from eight Summit Racing E.T. Finals events. These drivers, representing Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman, and Motorcycle classes from across the United States and Canada, are set to face off for the top honors.

Winners this year will receive $6,000 in each category, which is an increase from past payouts. Runners-up in each class stand to win $2,000, and semifinalists will collect $500 each, marking the first time these prizes go to non-winners in the event.

Compared to last year, total payouts are up by $15,000, meaning bigger rewards for more drivers. For the first time, a team competition is being introduced.

This new format will see all seven NHRA divisions joined by a Canadian team. Each division earns points with every round win, and the team with the most points will take home a $2,000 award.

Bonuses are also planned for standout performances in the opening rounds. A $1,000 bonus awaits the best “losing package” after round one, and another $1,000 goes to the best reaction time in round two for each class.

Organizers are promising unique, memorable experiences for the 32 finalists. These include a special welcome dinner on the opening night.

Throughout the event, special raffles will grant winners the chance to warm up Daniel Wilkerson’s 12,000-horsepower Funny Car or join Clay Millican’s crew during a qualifying run. Other experiences include a VIP tour with the Vance & Hines Pro Stock Motorcycle team and a look into the KB Titan Racing pit area.

Finalists will also participate in a parade before fans in the grandstands and receive introductions as part of the pre-race celebrations.

Jim Greenleaf of Summit Racing Equipment said he is excited for the purse increase and all the extra opportunities at this key sportsman racing event. He noted the tradition and prestige of the Summit Racing Series and welcomed the Canadian racers now eligible to compete for world titles.

Jason Galvin, NHRA Sportsman Manager, praised competitors for their high level of skill and commitment, adding that the new prizes and team event should make the championship Saturday especially memorable for participants.

In 2024, division champions included Zach Meziere in Super Pro (Division 6), Alvie Merrill in Pro (Division 4), C.W. Hoefer in Sportsman (Division 7), James Paulson in Motorcycle (Division 5), and Omar Leon in Street Legal EV (Division 7).

Next year marks another first: winners from the Eastern Canada E.T. Finals will also advance to the world championship, joining peers from all seven NHRA divisions.

The Summit Racing Series continues to be one of the highlights in sportsman drag racing, drawing top talent from both the U.S. and Canada. With the new purse levels, team format, and unique awards in Las Vegas, racers and fans alike are set for one of the most exciting showdowns in recent years.

The event’s emphasis on reaction time bonuses highlights the precision driving skills essential for success, adding another thrilling layer to the competition.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.