The sound of thunderous engines, the smell of burning methanol, and the sight of cars sliding sideways through a sea of deep red clay—this is dirt track racing in Alabama. Often overshadowed by the massive asphalt superspeedways, the heart of grassroots motorsports in the Yellowhammer State beats loudest on the high-banked ovals scattered across the countryside.
Whether you are a die-hard fan of Late Models or a family looking for Friday night excitement, Alabama dirt race tracks offer some of the most competitive and affordable racing in the country. From the high banks of “The Hornet’s Nest” to the speedways in the western part of the state, here is your complete guide to the 2026 season, including schedules, ticket info, and where to catch the stars of tomorrow.
The Crown Jewel: Talladega Short Track
No discussion of Alabama dirt race tracks is complete without mentioning Talladega Short Track (TST). Located at 5001 Speedway Blvd, Eastaboga, AL, this 1/3-mile clay oval sits directly across the street from the legendary Talladega Superspeedway. Known affectionately as “The Hornet’s Nest,” TST is widely regarded as one of the premier weekly racing facilities in the nation.
2026 Season Coverage
The track launched its 49th season on March 14, 2026, and the action is heating up. The premier division for the 2026 season is the TST Cup Championship, a 10-race points series that determines the track champions in each weekly division.
Upcoming 2026 Schedule Highlights:
- Weekly Racing (Saturdays): The regular season features divisions including Crate Late Models, Modifieds, and Street Stocks.
- Special Events: Keep an eye on the calendar for the “Alabama Gang 100.” Although rain washed out portions of the 2025 event, the World of Outlaws Late Models are expected to return to TST for this $35,000-to-win spectacle in 2026.
- Unique Events: Mark your calendars for October 9, 2026. The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) brings Flat Track motorcycle racing to TST for the first time, showcasing vintage and historic dirt bikes.
Ticket & Fan Info:
- Gates: Typically open at 4:00 PM on race days, with hot laps at 6:00 PM and racing at 7:00 PM.
- Admission: General admission prices are generally affordable (usually $10–$15 for adults), with kids under 12 often getting in free on regular nights.
- Refund Policy: In the event of a rainout, like the 2025 Alabama Gang 100, fans may need to mail wristbands to P.O. Box 740, Lincoln, AL 35096 for refunds. Always check the track’s social media for weather updates.
The Southern All Stars: Touring Alabama in 2026
If you want to see the fastest regional Late Model drivers, you need to follow the Southern All Star Dirt Racing Series. This legendary tour, celebrating its 44th season, has released a stacked 25-race schedule for 2026, hitting several key Alabama dirt race tracks.
Key Alabama Stops on the 2026 SAS Schedule
- Penton Raceway (Lafayette, AL) – March 6: The season opener in Alabama. Expect $4,000 to win for the Late Models.
- West Alabama Speedway (Winfield, AL) – May 1: Located in the western part of the state, this stop pays $5,000 to the winner.
- Buckshot Speedway (Clanton, AL) – May 2: A high-paying weekend back-to-back with Winfield, offering $7,500 to win.
Ticket Info: Tickets for SAS events vary by track but usually range from $15 to $25 for general admission. These events draw large car counts, so arriving early is recommended.
East Alabama Motor Speedway (Phenix City)
Located in Phenix City, East Alabama Motor Speedway (EAMS) is another powerhouse on the Alabama dirt circuit. This track hosts some of the biggest unsanctioned and sanctioned special events of the year.
Alabama State Championships
EAMS is the home of the annual Alabama State Championships. In 2026, the event continued its legacy of intense racing. In recent years, this race has drawn over 40 cars and paid out significant purses.
- World of Outlaws: EAMS hosted the World of Outlaws Late Models on March 28, 2026. These are the “rock stars” of dirt racing, and tickets for these events usually command a premium (often $30–$40) due to the national touring talent.
Ticket Tip: For major touring series like the World of Outlaws, it is highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, as these events often sell out the grandstands.
Exploring More Alabama Tracks
While Talladega and EAMS get the headlines, Alabama is full of hidden gems. Here are other notable Alabama dirt race tracks to add to your bucket list:
- Penton Raceway (Lafayette): A fast, high-banked 3/8-mile oval that is a favorite among drivers for its multiple grooves.
- West Alabama Speedway (Winfield): A staple of the Southern All Star series, known for its tacky surface and side-by-side racing.
- Buckshot Speedway (Clanton): A smaller bullring where beating and banging is a part of the show.
- Sunny South Raceway (Grand Bay): Note: While historically a dirt track, Sunny South has been paved for several years, now operating as a 1/4-mile paved oval. However, its history is rooted in the Alabama dirt scene.
How to Watch: Live in Person vs. Streaming
You cannot beat the sensory overload of sitting in the grandstands at an Alabama dirt race track—the clay dust in the air and the ground shaking as 30 Late Models fly by on the start is unforgettable.
However, if you cannot make it to the track, streaming services have revolutionized dirt racing coverage.
- DIRTVision: The go-to app for World of Outlaws events held at tracks like EAMS and Talladega.
- SpeedSport.tv: Offers pay-per-view options for specialty events, such as the AHRMA Flat Track racing at Talladega, with passes often costing around $19.99 for live access.
Planning Your Race Weekend
To get the most out of the 2026 season, follow these steps:
- Check the Weather: Alabama spring weather is volatile. Always check the track’s website or Facebook page before driving long distances.
- What to Bring: Lawn chairs (for general admission hills), ear protection for kids, and cash (many smaller tracks still operate cash-only at the gate).
- The Schedule:
March: Season kickoffs at Talladega and Penton.
May: The Southern All Star swing through Winfield and Clanton.
October: The AHRMA Flat Track event at Talladega. - From the roar of the World of Outlaws at East Alabama Motor Speedway to the weekly grind of the TST Cup at Talladega Short Track, Alabama dirt race tracks offer a thrill ride for fans of all ages. Grab a pit pass, bring a cooler, and experience real racing in the Heart of Dixie.
