4/7/2026
Crate Racin' USA
WSTC Returns for 11th Running at The Dirt Track at Charlotte
(Eastaboga, AL - April 7, 2026) – One of the most prestigious grassroots racing events in the country is set to return in a big way, as the 11th Annual World Short Track Championship takes center stage at The Dirt Track at Charlotte on October 29-31, 2026.
The premier three-day championship event for short track racers across the nation enters a new era this season, highlighted by a refreshed lineup of competing divisions and new opportunities for drivers to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Changes for 2026 include the addition of the 525 Late Models and the Northeast’s popular DIRTcar 358 Modified division, both of which will make their debut at the World Short Track Championship. These two divisions will join a stout lineup that includes the Rogers-Dabbs Performance Parts Crate Racin’ USA 604 Late Models, 602 Late Models, DIRTcar UMP Modifieds, Crate Modifieds, Street Stocks, Thunder Bombers, Mini Stocks, and Hornets.
The DIRTcar Northeast 358 Modified division rotates into the event in place of the Sportsman and Pro Stock divisions, which will not be part of this year’s program. The 358 Modifieds have seen tremendous growth in recent years, with over 230 drivers competing in series action last season. Known as a stepping stone below the Big Block Modifieds, the division features a 358 cubic-inch engine and is prominently showcased at marquee events such as Super DIRT Week’s “Salute to the Troops 150” at Oswego Speedway.
In addition to the division changes, officials have announced an update to Thursday’s Championship Feature format. Two Championship Features will now be contested on Thursday night, with participating divisions determined by a draw during the drivers meeting, adding a new level of excitement and unpredictability to the opening night of competition.
The 2026 edition of the World Short Track Championship will once again feature a lucrative purse structure, with more than $200,000 in total prize money and contingency awards up for grabs across the 10 divisions. Championship Feature events for all divisions will take place on Saturday night, where drivers from across the country will battle for one of the most coveted titles in short track racing.
Saturday night payouts include:
Crate Racin’ USA 604 Late Models | $8,000-to-win
525 Late Models | $8,000-to-win
DIRTcar UMP Modifieds | $8,000-to-win
DIRTcar 358 Modifieds | $5,000 to win
602 Late Models | $3,000 to-win
Hornets | $2,500 to-win
Crate Modifieds | $2,000 to-win
Street Stocks | $2,000 to-win
Thunder Bombers | $2,000 to-win
Mini Stocks | $2,000 to-win
The World Short Track Championship has built a reputation as a true “racers’ race,” bringing together competitors from across the country to compete against the best in their respective divisions on a national stage.
The full event schedule, competitor notes, and additional details for the 2026 World Short Track Championship will be announced in the coming months. Fans and competitors are encouraged to stay tuned to official DIRTcar channels for the latest updates as the countdown to Charlotte begins.
Article Credit: Cody Earley
