MotorTrend's Roadkill Nights: A New Era of Racing with Two Tracks and More Action

Exciting Changes for Roadkill Nights 2026

The excitement is building for the much-anticipated Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge, as it gears up for its 11th edition on August 8, 2026. This year's event promises to electrify automotive enthusiasts with not one, but two live racing venues, ensuring that the action is louder, faster, and more engaging than ever before. Taking place on the legendary Woodward Avenue, the event will feature a thrilling combination of street-legal drag racing and a unique road course track shootout that allows participants to showcase their skills and vehicles in a completely new setting.

Tickets for the event are now available for purchase, starting from just $25, with a variety of ticket packages to suit every fan’s needs. This year, Dodge aims to celebrate its rich automotive heritage in a way that captures the hearts of both seasoned racers and newcomers eager to experience the thrill of speed.

Roadkill Nights Goes Big with Dual Racing Venues

For the first time in its history, Roadkill Nights will have two racing formats running simultaneously. The iconic Woodward Avenue will transform into a vibrant scene for street-legal drag racing, featuring head-to-head competition on a legendary drag strip that has witnessed many historic racing moments. Nearby, the M1 Concourse will unveil an all-new road course, providing a platform for racers of diverse backgrounds to compete in timed challenges. Racers will not only get to showcase their vehicles but also have the chance to win cash prizes in several categories.

The Thrill of the Direct Connection Grudge Match

Adding to the excitement, the Direct Connection Grudge Match will return with a revamped format. This year’s event features the turbocharged, 550-horsepower Dodge Charger Scat Pack, which is all set to take center stage. Entrants will prepare, modify, and compete using the Charger Scat Pack, thus turning the spotlight on enthusiast-driven competition and engagement. Contestants will benefit from expert technical support from the Direct Connection, the performance parts division of Dodge, including potential build allowances to enhance their racing machines.

Meet the Competitors

The 2026 Grudge Match will feature an exciting lineup of talented competitors, including high-energy athlete Demi Bagby, known for her remarkable journey and passion for motorsports, and Rob Dahm, an innovator renowned for his extraordinary engine builds. Each attendee will be able to witness the creativity, engineering prowess, and personal stories that fuel these competitors’ love of racing.

A Full Day of Family Fun and Entertainment

Roadkill Nights is more than just a competition; it's a full-day experience designed for families and racing fans of all ages. The event will feature an extensive automotive festival, showcasing an impressive array of vehicles. Attendees can check out the Dodge Charger lineup, experience thrilling rides in Dodge muscle cars, and even watch burnouts performed by NHRA stars. Moreover, interactive areas will immerse fans in the culture of car enthusiasm, with opportunities for exhibitions, food trucks, and even a silent auction benefiting charitable initiatives.

Conclusion

As Roadkill Nights continues to expand its offerings, it reaffirms its commitment to celebrating the spirit of automotive performance. Prompting adrenaline and engagement among fans, this year's event is poised to redefine racing in the Midwest. Car enthusiasts worldwide will not want to miss what promises to be an unforgettable day filled with horsepower, community, and celebration. Purchase your tickets now and become part of a remarkable racing legacy that keeps growing, year after year.