The Drag Racing World is Shifting Gears: Bobby Bode's Bold Move to IHRA Could Change the Game
By Tracy Renck
The drag racing landscape is buzzing with excitement as the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) makes waves with its recent acquisitions and innovative offerings. And one driver who’s taking notice is nitro Funny Car sensation Bobby Bode. Alongside his father and team owner, Bob Bode, Bobby is strategically reshaping their 2026 racing schedule to embrace the IHRA’s fresh opportunities while still keeping a foot in the NHRA door. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this shift signal a broader trend in the sport, or is it just a family team’s calculated risk? Let’s dive in.
A New Era for the Bodes: IHRA Takes Center Stage
The IHRA’s recent moves—purchasing tracks, introducing eighth-mile racing, and offering substantial prize money—haven’t gone unnoticed by the Bode family. For their 2026 campaign in the family-owned Ford Mustang, the plan is clear: focus heavily on IHRA events while selectively participating in NHRA races. Bobby shared with CompetitionPlus.com, ‘We’re looking at eight IHRA races and probably five NHRA events. The IHRA races, especially those in the Midwest, are too good to pass up. They’re close to home, and the format is just right for us.’
Why IHRA? The Perfect Fit for a Family Team
For the Bodes, IHRA isn’t just a new option—it’s a game-changer. Based just outside Chicago in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, the team has historically run a limited schedule due to logistical and financial constraints. Bob Bode first hit the tracks in 2001, and Bobby followed suit in 2020. But now, with IHRA’s Midwest-centric events, they have unprecedented flexibility. ‘For a team like ours, IHRA is a perfect match,’ Bobby explained. ‘We tested the waters at GALOT Motorsports Park last year, and it was fantastic. The atmosphere was relaxed, the payouts were better, and the eighth-mile format was easier on our parts. We’re definitely fans.’
The Eighth-Mile Advantage: A Game-Changer for Small Teams
One of the most appealing aspects of IHRA for the Bodes is the eighth-mile racing format. ‘At GALOT, we didn’t damage a single part,’ Bobby noted. ‘The eighth mile is much gentler on the car, which is huge for a team with our resources. Plus, we set an IHRA record in the first round with a 3.17-second pass at 277 mph. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and just as thrilling.’
Balancing Act: IHRA vs. NHRA
While the Bodes are leaning into IHRA, they’re not abandoning NHRA entirely. ‘We still love NHRA racing,’ Bobby said. ‘We’ll definitely be at Brainerd and St. Louis, and probably Indy, Norwalk, and Martin. But with IHRA, we can pick and choose what works best for us. It’s a balance we’re excited to strike.’
Fond Memories and Future Goals
Brainerd holds a special place in the Bode family’s heart. In 2010, Bob Bode, then a part-time driver on a tight budget, shocked the racing world by winning the Lucas Oil Nationals. ‘That victory was huge for us,’ Bobby recalled. ‘It’s a reminder of what’s possible when everything clicks.’
Looking ahead, Bobby is focused on taking it one round at a time. ‘We’ve come close to winning a few times,’ he admitted. ‘In 2022, we were leading Matt Hagan in the final round before an engine explosion cost us the win. And last year at GALOT, we fell just short against Del Worsham. But I’ve learned that big wins come from stacking small victories. We’re building toward that.’
The Worsham Connection: A Mentor and Rival
Del Worsham isn’t just a competitor—he’s also been a mentor to Bobby. In 2025, Bobby drove for Worsham’s NHRA nitro Funny Car team in several events, including the PRO Superstar Shootout and NHRA nationals in Gainesville, Phoenix, Pomona, and Las Vegas. ‘Del’s success in IHRA inspired us to give it a shot,’ Bobby said. ‘He’s been dominating over there, and he convinced us it was worth it. As for driving for him again, you never know. I’d jump at the chance if it came up.’
The Bigger Picture: What Does This Mean for Drag Racing?
The Bodes’ shift to IHRA raises a bigger question: Are we witnessing a broader trend in drag racing? As IHRA continues to expand its offerings, will more teams follow suit? And what does this mean for the future of NHRA? These are questions that could spark heated debates among fans and insiders alike.
Your Turn: What Do You Think?
Is Bobby Bode’s move to IHRA a smart strategy, or is he taking a risk that could backfire? Do you see more teams making a similar shift, or will NHRA remain the dominant force in drag racing? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation going!
