The rather amazing renaissance of IHRA is causing “movement afoot” for Canadian racers too…

The 2026 introduction of twelve new national event format races from the IHRA (Outlaw Nitro Series) is most definitely having an effect for Canadian-based drag racing teams.

While the current overall IHRA geography for racing is very wide spread — it also does offer some improved regionality, particularly for Eastern Canadian drag racers.

Historically the IHRA has offered simply stellar support for Canada – prior to them going dark and dormant for a period due to various reasons (after 2010).

Their new era — beginning under new ownership in mid 2025 — is now pretty much “full on”.

Add into that equation some pretty hefty event and series championship $$$ payout incentives (in comparison to perhaps regional NHRA racing) — and the IHRA attraction becomes even more understandable.

That reality has become evident this year with some very significant Pro level players from Canada –choosing to participate.

Brantford Ontario’s Chatterson Racing TAD team is only one example but also very atypical within this renewed and growing IHRA interest — a common consensus.

“Logistically and financially IHRA is a better fit for our team now,” relayed driver Jeff Chatterson. “Their tracks are (generally) closer to home for us and our crew.”

“We did choose to compete at all the IHRA races in 2025 — and that was very positive. We were & now continue to be impressed with all IHRA has to offer. They truly treat each team with consideration, respect & maintain high standards at each facility.”

For Jeff Chatterson — the IHRA brand is also a return to some of his earliest roots — having won his first IHRA “Ironman” back in 1998 (Empire Nationals in NY — in Modified). He won his 2nd “Ironman” last season – taking the TAD title at their Darana Hebron Ohio event.

So far, for 2026 Chatterson Racing has attended the first two IHRA Outlaw Nitro series races, filing entry and then qualifying well for both (at Benson NC & Virginia Motorsports Park).

That solid start has thus set their team on a path to race the majority of their season IHRA (evidenced by their planned schedule below).

Jeff and Company were also quick to cite credit to their valued sponsors – who will go on the campaign ride with them. “We are forever grateful to our sponsors — especially Brian & the team from Strodes BBQ & Deli,” Jeff emphasised. “They will continue to keep us fuelled with some amazing food!” (#chasingthebacon #senditforBobby)

Posted by Bruce Biegler
Photos by Dave DeAngelis