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76TH ANNUAL RACE OF CHAMPIONS
Sunday, October 18, 2026
The Greatest Tradition in Modified Racing Returns to New York
OWEGO, NY (August 7, 2026) – Race of Champions and Shangri-La II Speedway management have reached an agreement for the “Super Speedway of the Southern Tier” to host the historic 76th annual Race of Champions on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
The 76th running of the Race of Champions will feature a 125-lap championship event paying $10,000 to win, with the winner earning a coveted place on the legendary Al Gerber Memorial Trophy. This will continue the RoC legacy as the second-longest consecutively run auto-racing event in North America, second only to the Indianapolis 500.
The race format will remain true to the event’s tradition. Teams will be permitted three over-the-wall crew members, and one tire change will be allowed during the 125-lap event. The format is designed to reward strategy, preparation, and execution while preserving the unique character that has defined the Race of Champions for generations.
“It’s an honor for us to host this event at Shangri-La II Speedway as part of what we expect will be an incredible weekend of racing in the Southern Tier,” said Ray Hodge, General Manager of Shangri-La II Speedway. “We’re proud to bring the 76th annual Race of Champions to our facility and become part of its incredible history. Since George (Coleman), Kayla (Wood) and I began working together, one of our goals has been to establish a signature event that racers and fans identify with Shangri-La II Speedway. Now, we have that opportunity, and we’re excited to build upon it.”
The event marks the return of the Race of Champions to New York after recent renditions were contested in Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
In addition to the prestige of winning one of Modified racing’s most celebrated events, the Race of Champions will also serve as the championship finale for the 2026 Race of Champions Modified Series, culminating in the crowning of the Series champion.
“We’ve spent considerable time evaluating facilities, meeting with promoters and discussing the future of this event,” stated Joe Skotnicki, Race of Champions. “We believe Shangri-La II Speedway has tremendous potential to help elevate the Race of Champions and continue rebuilding the tradition and stature this event has represented throughout its history. Ray Hodge brings a wealth of experience to complement the efforts of George Coleman and Kayla Wood, and we’re looking forward to working together to continue promoting what we proudly call the Greatest Tradition in Modified Racing.”
The Race of Champions weekend will begin with an open practice on Friday, October 16, followed by the Race of Champions Sportsman Modified Series headline event on Saturday, October 17. The weekend will culminate with the 76th annual Race of Champions on Sunday, October 18.
A complete weekend schedule, along with additional event information, will be released in the coming days.
About the Race of Champions: The Race of Champions is a sanctioning body presenting Modified and Stock Car racing on asphalt and dirt surfaces throughout the Northeast, with events in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
The RoC event will be broadcast live on FloRacing.
How to Watch on FloRacing:
• On Your TV: Download the FloSports app on Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, Apple TV, Samsung, VIZIO, or LG • On The Go: Download the FloSports app on iOS or Android devices
Primary marketing partners include Hoosier Racing Tire, Sunoco Race Fuels, FX Caprara, Airport Collision, Waddell Communications, Image X Design, Sherwood Racing Wheels, DirtTrackDigest.com, and Speed Sport.
For more information, contact;
Race of Champions Media at media@rocmodifiedseries.com
Follow us on Twitter; Instagram and Facebook; @RoCModSeries or visit our website: www.rocmodifiedseries.com
