FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The Worldwide Scorching Rod Affiliation has formally acquired the F1 Powerboat Racing, one of many world’s premier tunnel-boat racing collection.
This strategic acquisition strengthens IHRA’s quickly rising footprint in water-based motorsports and continues the group’s mission to unify, modernize, and elevate aggressive racing throughout all disciplines.
With the acquisition, F1 Powerboat Racing will now function below the IHRA Powerboating umbrella, becoming a member of a household of collection centered on racer-first rules, enhanced security requirements, and elevated fan experiences. IHRA will combine its security, broadcast, advertising, and occasion operations infrastructure to help a seamless 2026 season transition. Additionally, IHRA shall be placing up an unprecedented $500,000 for prize purse and racer help.
“Bringing this collection below the IHRA umbrella accelerates our imaginative and prescient of unifying powerboat racing and delivering a world-class expertise for racers, groups, and followers,” mentioned IHRA proprietor Darryl Cuttell. “This acquisition isn’t just about development—it’s about strengthening the way forward for the game by way of stability, professionalism, and alternative.”
Tim Seebold, Legendary Champion and Chief in F1 Powerboat Racing, commented:
“IHRA’s dedication to supporting racers at each stage—rookie to championship contender—is precisely what our sport wants,” mentioned Tim Seebold, longtime chief of F1 Powerboat Racing. “Their racer-first method, operational energy, and long-term imaginative and prescient give F1 Powerboat opponents a clearer, stronger, and extra steady future. I’m proud to affix the IHRA Powerboating Staff and sit up for serving to construct an setting the place our racers can succeed and the game can develop.”
Beneath IHRA management, F1 Powerboat Racing will profit from:
– Centralized guidelines, security oversight, and compliance administration
– Expanded broadcast protection by way of IHRA’s multi-year partnership with SPEED SPORT 1
– Unified scheduling throughout offshore, drag boat, and F1 classes
– Elevated sponsorship alternatives pushed by IHRA’s nationwide industrial infrastructure
– Enhanced racer help and occasion operations
– Strengthened management with the addition of Tim Seebold to the IHRA Powerboating Staff
IHRA will launch detailed data relating to the 2026 IHRA F1 Powerboat Racing schedule, technical framework, and staff assets within the coming weeks.
The Worldwide Scorching Rod Affiliation (IHRA) is a worldwide motorsports sanctioning physique devoted to racer-first competitors, fan engagement, and the development of motorsports throughout a number of disciplines—together with drag racing, inventory automotive racing, offshore powerboating, drag boat racing, snowmobile competitors, and extra. IHRA is dedicated to innovation, security, and the long-term sustainability of aggressive racing.
