By Ben Deatherage
CASA GRANDE, Ariz. (Jun. 18, 2025) — The IMCA.TV Winter Nationals presented by Pitt Stop Motorsports will return to Central Arizona Raceway in 2026, with updated dates announced for the prestigious mid-winter racing tradition. The event is now scheduled for January 20 through January 31, providing teams and fans with warmer temperatures and a better fit on the winter calendar.
Traditionally held around New Year’s, the Winter Nationals moves later into the month in 2026.
“We are moving it to get away from the holidays and for the weather,” said promoter Brad Whitfield. “It’s about 10 degrees warmer toward the end of the month versus the start. Folks who were used to the Yuma weather when this event was held there in years past should have the same kind of temps.”
Central Arizona Raceway promoter Brad Whitfield takes a break from his busy schedule running two race tracks and planning for the upcoming IMCA.TV Winter Nationals, which moves to later dates in January for 2026. (Track Photo)
This will mark the second year that Central Arizona Raceway has hosted the IMCA.TV Winter Nationals, following a successful debut at the track in 2025. The multi-day event will once again feature top-tier competition in the Friesen Performance IMCA Modifieds, Sunoco IMCA Stock Cars, Karl Chevrolet IMCA Northern SportMods, and Sunoco IMCA Hobby Stocks.
An open practice will kick off the event on January 20, while January 27 will feature another practice session, a $1,000-to-win Hobby Stock special, and the 5th Annual Gene Freeman Memorial Pit Crew Challenge.
The entire Winter Nationals will be broadcast live on IMCA.TV, bringing the action to viewers across the country and beyond.
For future updates, follow the IMCA.TV Winter Nationals Facebook page.