NHRA Officials and the Gila River Indian Community have announced that the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will return to Phoenix for the 2024 season. The event will take place at the newly-renamed Firebird Motorsports Park, formerly known as Firebird International Raceway, from April 5-7. This will mark the 39th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals, continuing the rich history of NHRA drag racing at the venue.

Tickets are now available for renewal by fans, and general public sales will begin on Monday, December 11. The facility management unveiled the new name, Firebird Motorsports Park, at the PRI Show, symbolizing a merger of the past and future of the track.

The decision to bring NHRA drag racing back to Phoenix was driven by the overwhelming support and desire from the racing community in the area. The Gila River Indian Community took proactive steps to make it happen, envisioning a bright future for racing at Firebird Motorsports Park. Racers and fans also played a significant role in reviving the sport at this historic venue.

Casey Buckman, Track Manager of Firebird Motorsports Park, expressed excitement about the partnership with NHRA and the opportunity to host the Arizona Nationals in 2024 and for many years to come. NHRA President Glen Cromwell shared the sentiment, acknowledging the fans' unwavering support for nearly four decades and expressing anticipation for a fantastic event in 2024.

The NHRA Arizona Nationals, commonly known as the "Duel in the Desert," has held its place on the racing calendar for 39 years. Over the years, it has witnessed numerous historic and record-breaking performances. 

The 2023 edition of the race saw Top Fuel driver Justin Ashley, Funny Car driver Robert Hight, and Pro Stock driver Camrie Caruso emerge victorious. Hight, in particular, clinched his second consecutive win at the track, while Caruso celebrated her first professional victory.
In addition to the main races, the 2024 event will once again feature the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge, a bonus event introduced in 2023. This Saturday spectacle attracted a sold-out crowd as fans relished the opportunity to witness competitive racing during the qualifying rounds.

Sunday's eliminations drew a full-capacity crowd in 2023. Records show that Tony Schumacher holds the record for the most Top Fuel victories at the track, with five wins. Funny Car legend John Force leads the pack in his category with eight wins, while Antron Brown, Robert Hight, Ron Capps, and Matt Hagan each have three wins in their respective classes. Notably, Greg Anderson and Erica Enders both have two wins as leading active Pro Stock competitors.