By RICK PETERSON
TopSports.news
Drag racing legend John Force, a 10-time national event winner in Topeka, watches qualifying during the final NHRA national event at Heartland Motorsports Park in 2023. [File photo/TSN]Heartland Park Topeka opened in 1989 and became a storied track on the National Hot Rod Association circuit, with Topeka hosting at least one national event every season from 1989 through 2023, with the exception of the 2020 event which was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Heartland, which shut down in 2023, also hosted NASCAR Truck Series events along with hosting the SCCA Runoffs, ARCA events and numerous other national-level events in addition to hosting a regular bracket racing series for local racers.
The list of racing legends that either raced or made appearances at the Topeka facility includes Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt, Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Bobby Allison and NHRA's John Force, who earned a track-record 10 victories in Topeka.
At least 26 drivers who have competed in the Indianapolis 500 have visited or raced at Heartland.
“Heartland Motorsports Park is one of those places that simply matters to racing,” Darryl Cuttell, owner of the International Hot Rod Association, said in the IHRA release. “It has history, soul, and a footprint that allows us to think bigger than just a racetrack. Our goal is to restore this facility with respect for its legacy while building something that serves racers, fans, and the community for generations.”
The IHRA release said that the organization's long-term vision for Heartland Motorsports Park extends well beyond competition weekends. Planned restoration and redevelopment efforts will focus on creating a year-round destination that blends motorsports with live entertainment and community engagement, including:
- Revitalized drag racing operations with improved racer and fan amenities
- Expanded motorsports and special event programming
- Live music, concerts, and festival experiences
- Enhanced hospitality, vendor, and fan-experience areas
- Community-focused events designed to drive tourism and economic impact
“Motorsports has to evolve to stay strong,” Cuttell said. “The future is about creating places where racing, music, entertainment, and community come together. Heartland has all the pieces to become one of the premier motorsports and entertainment destinations in the country.”
Cuttell said the acquisition of Heartland aligns with IHRA’s broader racer-first philosophy, which includes direct investment in facilities and infrastructure that strengthen grassroots racing, elevate national competition, and create sustainable motorsports ecosystems.
According to the IHRA announcement tenovation planning will begin immediately, with additional announcements regarding redevelopment phases, event schedules, and community partnerships expected in the coming months.
Founded in 1970, the International Hot Rod Association is one of the world’s premier motorsports sanctioning bodies, overseeing drag racing and a growing portfolio of motorsports disciplines. IHRA is committed to racer advocacy, innovation, safety, and creating dynamic racing and entertainment destinations that benefit competitors, fans, and host communities.
