IHRA Acquires Powerboat P1 USA / P1 Offshore, Launching Unified 2026 Powerboat Racing Season

FAIRFIELD, Ohio — October 17, 2025 — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the acquisition of Powerboat P1 USA / P1 Offshore, marking a transformative milestone in the evolution of professional powerboat racing. The unification of these two respected motorsport organizations establishes a bold new direction for the sport’s future, alongside continued dialogue with Race World Offshore (RWO) regarding future alignment.

“This acquisition represents a new era of leadership and vision for IHRA,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner & CEO of the International Hot Rod Association. “We are committed to elevating the sport of powerboat racing through innovation, unity, and global reach. Together, we will build an organization that champions excellence, expands opportunity, and inspires the next generation of racers and fans.”

“IHRA’s leadership brings new energy and scale to powerboat racing,” said Azam Rangoonwala, Chief Executive Officer of Powerboat P1 USA / P1 Offshore. “Their commitment to professionalism and growth ensures that the sport will continue to thrive and connect with audiences around the world.”

“The 2026 season will showcase the best of both organizations,” added Thomas Covington, who will oversee strategic sponsorship and operations. “Our combined expertise and shared vision will strengthen the sport, our teams, and our partners.”

“This is more than an acquisition—it’s an evolution,” said Leah Martin, IHRA Powerboating Executive. “The collaboration between IHRA and Powerboat P1 USA / P1 Offshore represents progress, passion, and a shared belief in what this sport can become.”

Larry Bleil, Owner of Race World Offshore, acknowledged IHRA’s new direction and affirmed that discussions remain productive.

“We are in agreement with the direction IHRA is taking and appreciate their vision for the future of the sport,” said Bleil. “Our conversations have been positive, and we look forward to continuing discussions aimed at ensuring the best possible outcome for racers and fans alike.”

Demonstrating IHRA’s continued investment in both competitive and organizational growth, Tyler Miller and Randy Scism have been appointed to the IHRA Board of Directors. Miller, an accomplished team owner and longtime supporter of offshore racing, and Scism, founder of Marine Technology Inc. (MTI) and one of the sport’s most respected builders and champions, bring invaluable insight and leadership. Their addition reflects IHRA’s commitment to strengthening the sport both on and off the water, ensuring a future built on collaboration, innovation, and racer-focused growth.

The IHRA Offshore Racing Series will debut in 2026, bringing together premier race sites, expanded media coverage, and a unified competition structure. Additional details on the 2026 IHRA Offshore Racing Schedule and partnership initiatives will be released in the coming weeks.