DIRT TRACK WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TO WEST VIRGINIA MOTOR SPEEDWAY IN 2026!

DIRT TRACK WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TO WEST VIRGINIA MOTOR SPEEDWAY IN 2026!

Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series $100,000-To-Win Finale Returns to Mineral Wells for the First Time Since 2010

Mineral Wells, WV – One of dirt late model racing’s most storied and prestigious events is coming home. The legendary Carl Short’s Dirt Track World Championship (DTWC) is officially returning to West Virginia Motor Speedway in 2026, marking the event’s first appearance at the iconic and reconfigured oval since 2010, and the fourth time in the race’s rich history that it will be contested at WVMS.

The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series season finale paying a massive $100,000 to win, will once again thunder through the hills of West Virginia as the sport’s best drivers battle for one of dirt racing’s most coveted crowns. Known for its signature crown jewel status in the late model world, the DTWC’s return signals a full-circle moment for both Carl Short and the historic speedway.

“This DTWC being back in our state is a significant benefit and opportunity for West Virginians and Wood County” said Cody Watson, GM of West Virginia Motor Speedway. “The Dirt Track World Championship was born from the spirit of grassroots racers and passionate fans and that’s exactly what we’re all about here. Bringing it back to WVMS isn’t just another race announcement, its a major moment in our sport. Our goal is for the event to take permanent roots here and grow larger than ever”

The return of the DTWC continues the powerful resurgence of West Virginia Motor Speedway under the ownership of Mike & Becky Hurley. Since its recent reconfiguration and rebirth, the facility debuted to nearly 8,000 fans and over 230+ race cars. A renewed fan excitement has re-established West Virginia Motor Speedway as one of dirt racing’s most talked about and highly anticipated venues for 2026.

Few venues can match the magnitude and October atmosphere WVMS provides. The panoramic hillside seating, new racing surface, and fall setting of the Mountain State make it the perfect stage for the Dirt Track World Championship’s return. Steve Francis, Wendall Wallace & Earl Pearson Jr. would win the DTWC respectively in 1999, 2000, and 2010 when the event was held at the sprawling 5/8 facility. This will be the first time on the new 3/8 mile oval which was a key factor for Carl Short deciding to move the race back to the Mineral Wells, WV facility. It will also mark the first time any event has ever paid $100,000 to win at WVMS, prior DTWC’s at the track paid just $50,000 to win.

Originally founded by Carl Short in 1981, the Dirt Track World Championship has stood as a season-ending celebration of grit, glory, and prestige and now, in 2026, it returns to where memories have been made and stories still echo across the valley. Additional event details including race weekend schedule, ticket information, and camping packages will be announced soon. Fans can follow @VisitWVMS on social media and visit www.wvmotorspeedway.com.

Since its grand opening in 1984, West Virginia Motor Speedway has been a cornerstone of dirt track racing, hosting some of the sport’s most prestigious events and showcasing the best in motorsport talent. Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Mineral Wells, WV, the track offers breathtaking views and a unique racing atmosphere. The new 3/8 mile clay oval will enhance this legacy and usher in a new era of racing excitement.

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