The Super Cat class will align with the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), joining the IHRA Offshore National Championship Series in 2026 as part of a continued effort to elevate offshore powerboat racing through a stronger, more unified national platform. A total of 11 teams are expected to compete across a seven-race National Championship Series culminating in the World Championships, backed by a $2,000,000 purse plus tow money.
The alignment brings one of offshore racing’s signature classes into IHRA’s inaugural offshore racing series, with Super Cat teams competing across the full 2026 schedule, a seven-race National Championship Series culminating in a World Championship finale.
The 2026 IHRA Offshore Series will feature a $2 million total plus tow money, reinforcing IHRA’s investment in teams and the long-term growth of offshore powerboat racing.
“Super Cat teams want a national platform that’s professional, consistent, and built to grow,” said Super Cat Class Representative Vinnie Diorio. “IHRA has made it clear they’re serious, through meaningful prize money, a real commitment to supporting teams on the road, and a broadcast strategy that helps our sport reach more fans and deliver more value for our sponsors.”
Diorio added that IHRA’s early actions helped accelerate confidence among Super Cat team owners.
“IHRA didn’t just talk about raising the bar, they put real investment into the sport and followed through,” Diorio said. “The $250,000 purse at Key West mattered because it proved the commitment was real. The 2026 structure gives teams and partners something they can plan around with confidence.”
Super Cat continues to build momentum heading into 2026, with 11 confirmed teams strengthening the field:
• 03 — Dirty Money Racing
• 04 — Speed Marine
• 06 — Wicked
• 08 — CR Racing
• 09 — Team Farnsworth
• 10 — Howe 2 Live Offshore
• 13 — Lucky 13 Racing
• 54 — CJ Grant Racing
• 77 — EWB Racing
• 88 — SV Offshore / Rollin Transport
• 99 — Rip-It Racing
Super Cat is widely recognized as one of offshore racing’s premier classes, combining elite performance, high-profile teams, and strong fan recognition. The class’s continued growth reinforces its role as a cornerstone of offshore racing’s national presence.
“IHRA is proud to welcome Super Cat into our Offshore National Championship Series as we continue to build a stronger future for professional offshore racing,” said IHRA Preisident Leah Martin. “This is about delivering a clear championship pathway, elevating the fan experience, and creating more visibility and value for teams, sponsors and host communities.”
The longstanding premier class of offshore racing. The Super Cat Class boasts twin hull catamarans ranging from 38′ to 44′ in length powered by twin 850 horsepower engines of various manufacturers, with speeds reaching 140 mph.
Founded to be racer-focused and fan-driven, Fairfield, OH-based IHRA is a premier motorsports sanctioning body overseeing multiple racing disciplines, including drag racing, powerboating, stock cars, snowmobiles and more.