NHRA national-event racing returns to Michigan after 66 years, with Dodge and Mopar fronting the debut Great Lakes Nationals on September 18-20 at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin.

The event opens the six-round Countdown to the Championship in the 20-race 2026 season, coinciding with NHRA’s 75th anniversary.

Dodge serves as title sponsor, with Mopar as presenting partner, reinforcing the brands’ regional roots and long-standing drag racing alignment.

U.S. 131 Motorsports Park is well regarded for preparation and racer amenities. Cooler September conditions could favor quick early-session runs and place premium importance on lane choice.

With points reset for the Countdown, execution in Michigan becomes pivotal. Early playoff momentum can influence qualifying strategy, tire selection windows, and conservative versus aggressive tune-up decisions.

NHRA’s Brad Gerber frames the race as a significant regional reintroduction. The Dodge–Mopar platform promises meaningful fan engagement alongside a competitive statement for the series’ postseason opener.

The weekend also aligns with 60 years of the Dodge Charger. Expect product showcases, including the SIXPACK-powered Charger, plus interactive exhibits reaching beyond the core drag racing audience.

On track, Dodge and Mopar support Tony Stewart Racing. Stewart competes in Top Fuel with HEMI power, alongside Funny Car champion Matt Hagan and returning Top Fuel contender Leah Pruett.

Stewart arrives as regular-season champion and a race winner, giving the team a competitive baseline. Hagan’s title experience and Pruett’s return add strategic depth entering the playoff reset.

The Great Lakes Nationals features Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle. Lucas Oil Series adds Alcohol Dragster, Alcohol Funny Car, and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown.

Winners receive a diamond Wally trophy, created for NHRA’s 75th season. The commemorative award underlines the event’s historical positioning and the championship stakes on offer.

FS1 provides television coverage, with eliminations on Sunday, September 20. The schedule places decisive rounds in prime weekend slots for fans and sponsors.

As Michigan re-enters the national calendar, U.S. 131’s execution will be closely watched. Delivering quick, consistent lanes could cement the venue as a long-term playoff fixture.

Visual Summary

Nicholas Rivera

Nicholas Rivera delivers NHRA Top Fuel and Funny Car news, including eliminator-round results and reaction-time stats. He brings track-side interviews, contender profiles, and championship-point breakdowns straight from drag-racing’s biggest national events.