IHRA Australia Announces Multi‑Year Sanctioning Agreement with Victorian Motorsports Park

A major expansion strengthens IHRA Australia’s national footprint

IHRA Australia is proud to announce a new multi‑year sanctioning agreement with Victorian Motorsports Park (VMP), marking another significant and exciting milestone for the future of Australian drag racing.

This strategic partnership expands IHRA Australia’s operational footprint to five Australian states, reinforcing its position as one of the nation’s most established and progressive drag racing sanctioning bodies. Most importantly, it delivers new and expanded racing opportunities for competitors across the country, encouraging racers to travel, compete, and experience the diverse regions that make Australian drag racing unique.

The inclusion of Victorian Motorsports Park into the IHRA Australia network represents a landmark moment for Melbourne and the broader drag racing community. The venue is currently undergoing a complete transformation, with a major redevelopment underway that will elevate the facility to world‑class standards.

Melbourne has long been home to a strong and passionate sportsman racing base across all categories. With the continued growth of Real Street and Extreme Bike, the future for Victorian competitors looks exceptionally promising.

IHRA Australia has also recently introduced the new Pro Mod International 660 category, with the full 2026 IHRA Australia Calendar scheduled for release in the coming weeks. These categories will bring a fresh level of performance, competition, and spectacle to Victorian Motorsports Park, showcasing some of the most thrilling forms of drag racing available anywhere in the country.

IHRA Australia CEO Maurice Allen said the expansion represents a strong statement of intent—supporting venues, empowering competitors, and delivering consistent, high‑quality racing opportunities nationwide.

“The addition of Victorian Motorsports Park to our national program not only strengthens our presence across Australia but also opens the door for racers and fans to experience top‑tier drag racing in one of the country’s most incredible destinations,” Allen said. “This is an exciting time for everyone involved—competitors, fans, and partners alike.”

Victorian Motorsports Park now becomes a vital part of IHRA Australia’s long‑term national vision, strengthening pathways for racers while elevating the profile of drag racing in one of Australia’s most distinctive and motorsport‑rich regions.

IHRA Australia –  Competition Update
Effective Immediately

19 March 2026

IHRA Australia is pleased to announce the introduction of AA/JDB to the Junior Drag Bike class structure, marking a significant evolution in opportunities for young competitors.

Under this update, riders currently competing in A/JDB who are 15 years of age and older may now transition to the newly established AA/JDB category. Competitors in AA/JDB will be permitted to run a minimum Elapsed Time (ET) of 8.00 seconds, with a speed ceiling of 93.2 mph (150 km/h).

In addition, the maximum engine capacity for AA/JDB has been increased to 500cc, providing a clearer performance pathway for developing riders as they progress through the Junior ranks.

IHRA Australia CEO Maurice Allen welcomed the announcement, stating:

“This is a huge step forward for Junior competition and the future stars of our sport.”

The introduction of AA/JDB reflects IHRA Australia’s ongoing commitment to fostering safe, structured, and progressive development opportunities for young motorcycle competitors nationwide.

Best times for the other teams were: Barry Plumpton 3.823, Steven Smith 3.869, Neil Murphy 3.872, Russ Pavey 3.906, Rod Harvey 3.923, John Cannuli 4.038 and Jack Danaher 4.097.