Winter Showdown Triple Crown Series Kicks Off January 20 at Hickory Motor Speedway on iRacing

Mini Stocks take center stage as the inaugural round of the Winter Showdown begins

[October 2025] — The wait is over for sim racers across North America as the Winter Showdown Triple Crown Series officially launches its first round on January 20, 2026, at the legendary Hickory Motor Speedway on iRacing. Drivers will battle wheel-to-wheel in the Mini Stocks division, opening what promises to be one of the most competitive and exciting virtual short track championships of the off-season.

The Winter Showdown Triple Crown Series is a three-race championship designed to challenge drivers across multiple cars and tracks — a true test of versatility, patience, and racecraft. Each round will feature a unique car and venue, with cumulative points determining who will claim the coveted Triple Crown Champion title.

“We wanted to create something that keeps the racing community active through the winter and celebrates what grassroots racing is all about,” said a series representative. “Starting at Hickory Motor Speedway — a track rich in history and intensity — sets the tone perfectly. The Mini Stocks are going to put on an incredible show.”

Known as “The World’s Most Famous Short Track,” Hickory Motor Speedway is a North Carolina short-track icon, producing some of NASCAR’s greatest names. On iRacing, Hickory continues that tradition, delivering tight, high-intensity racing that demands both precision and patience — a perfect opening venue for the Winter Showdown.

Series Format Highlights

• Event 1: January 20, 2026 – Hickory Motor Speedway – Mini Stocks

• Event 2 & 3:  Tracks to be announced

• Format: Three races, three cars, three tracks – cumulative championship points

• Broadcast: All events to be streamed live

• Prizes: Cash awards and additional prizes for top finishers

  
  

Drivers can expect short-track thrills, close competition, and plenty of side-by-side battles as the Mini Stocks take the green for the first time in this new winter championship.

“This is going to be a fun, fast-paced series that showcases the passion and talent in the iRacing community,” added Jon Morrison “We can’t wait to drop the green flag at Hickory and see who comes out on top.”

About the Winter Showdown Triple Crown Series

The Winter Showdown Triple Crown Series is a three-race iRacing championship that celebrates grassroots-style short track competition through multiple divisions and historic tracks. Designed to keep the off-season exciting for both racers and fans, the series emphasizes competitive racing, sportsmanship, and community connection through sim racing.