8 Race Schedule Set For 2026

2025-12-24

The Big 8 Late Model Series has officially announced its 2026 racing schedule, highlighted by eight marquee events across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa. The upcoming season blends tradition-rich classics with premier regional showcases, continuing the series’ commitment to top-tier late model competition on the Midwest’s most respected short tracks.

The 2026 schedule reflects everything the Big 8 Late Model Series stands for—tradition, competition, and racing at facilities that mean something to drivers and fans. Each event has a distinct identity, and together they form a championship tour we’re proud to put our name on.

• Saturday, April 18
  49th Spring Classic
  Grundy County Speedway — Morris, Illinois

• Friday, May 22
  Late Model Special
  Madison International Speedway — Oregon, Wisconsin

• Friday, June 5
  Clash at the Downs XII
  Hawkeye Downs — Cedar Rapids, Iowa

• Saturday, July 18
  Hawkeye Hoosier Classic
  Hawkeye Downs — Cedar Rapids, Iowa

• Friday, August 7
  Union 464 Night
  Madison International Speedway — Oregon, Wisconsin

• Friday, September 18
  65th Bettenhausen Memorial
  Grundy County Speedway — Morris, Illinois

• Saturday, September 26
  61st National Short Track Championships
  Dells Raceway Park — Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

• Saturday, October 10
  57th Oktoberfest Race Weekend
  LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway — West Salem, Wisconsin

Several events on the schedule carry decades of history, including the Bettenhausen Memorial, Oktoberfest Race Weekend, and National Short Track Championships, reinforcing the Big 8 Late Model Series’ role in preserving and advancing Midwest short track racing.

Additional details regarding purses, entry information, technical rules, and event formats will be released as the 2026 season approaches. Teams and fans are encouraged to follow big8latemodels.com and official series channels for updates.