September 16, 2026

Water Restrictions Bring Cortez Fairgrounds Speedway Season to Early End

By Suzan McCoy

CORTEZ, Colo. (Sept. 16, 2026) — The remainder of the 2026 racing season at Cortez Fairgrounds Speedway has been canceled due to ongoing water restrictions affecting Montezuma County and surrounding areas.

Track officials said the decision was made after irrigation restrictions and the shutdown of area wellheads left the facility without enough available water to properly prepare and maintain the racing surface.

Continuing to race under those conditions would not allow the speedway to provide a properly prepared or safe racing surface.

“We are very disappointed that we had to make this decision, but we have to comply with the water restrictions that are in place throughout the county and surrounding areas,” co-promoter Joe Bellm said. “We sincerely apologize to our racers, crews and fans, and we are extremely grateful and thankful that we were able to complete six of our scheduled eight races this season.”

The six completed events will stand as the official 2026 racing season at Cortez Fairgrounds Speedway. Points accumulated during those events will determine the track and IMCA championships.

Track officials thanked the drivers, teams, sponsors, volunteers, officials and fans who supported the speedway throughout the shortened season.

Attention will now turn toward the annual awards banquet. Plans will begin following the holidays, with the banquet expected to be held sometime in January, similar to last year. Additional information will be announced once arrangements are finalized.

Plans for the 2027 racing season will also be discussed during the banquet.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience, understanding and continued support,” co-promoter Glen Brace said.

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News

Water Restrictions Bring Cortez Fairgrounds Speedway Season to Early End

By Suzan McCoy CORTEZ, Colo. (Sept. 16, 2026) — The remainder of the 2026 racing season at Cortez Fairgrounds Speedway has been canceled due to ongoing water restrictions affecting Montezuma County and surrounding areas. Track officials said the decision was made after irrigation restrictions and the shutdown of area wellheads left the facility without enough available water to properly prepare and maintain the racing surface. Continuing to race under those conditions would not allow the speedway to provide a properly prepared or safe racing surface. “We are very disappointed that we had to make this decision, but we have to comply with the water restrictions that are in place throughout the county and surrounding areas,” co-promoter Joe Bellm said. “We sincerely apologize to our racers, crews and fans, and we are extremely grateful and thankful that we were able to complete six of our scheduled eight races this season.” The six completed events will stand as the official 2026 racing season at Cortez Fairgrounds Speedway. Points accumulated during those events will determine the track and IMCA [Read More]

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