3/30/2026
Mission Valley Super Oval
2026 Montana 200 Set to Continue Legacy as Northwest’s Premier Super Late Model Event
Polson, Montana — 03/30/2026 — The highly anticipated 2026 Montana 200 is set to return to Mission Valley Super Oval, continuing its long-standing tradition as one of the most prestigious Super Late Model races in the Pacific Northwest. Drivers from across the United States and Canada are expected to compete in the 200-lap marquee event, which has become a cornerstone of short-track racing in the region.
In a significant development for 2026, the event will be officiated by the Northwest Super Late Model Series, marking a new chapter in the race’s evolution. The SRL Southwest Tour (SRL) will no longer serve as the sanctioning body for the Montana 200, as event organizers transition to a more regionally focused officiating platform aimed at strengthening Northwest competition and identity.
Following a competitive and well-attended 2025 race, momentum continues to build as teams prepare for another year of high-stakes racing. The Montana 200 remains a key battleground for both seasoned veterans and rising stars looking to make their mark on one of the Northwest’s biggest stages.
2025 Race Recap
The 2025 Montana 200 showcased a dominant performance by Zach Riehl, who captured his first victory in the event. Alex Lessor secured a strong second-place finish, while Andrew Riehl completed the podium, highlighting an impressive showing for the Riehl team.
Recent Winners
The Montana 200 has featured a diverse group of winners in recent years, reflecting the depth of talent in the Super Late Model ranks:
2025 – Zach Riehl
2024 – Jason Jefferson
2023 – Shelby Thompson
2022 – B.J. Tidrick
2021 – B.J. Tidrick
A Deep-Rooted History: The Montana 200 and Montana Raceway Park
The Montana 200 was first held in 1991 at Montana Raceway Park in Kalispell, Montana, and quickly grew into one of the most prestigious short-track events in the Pacific Northwest. Built in 1993, Montana Raceway Park was a high-banked 3/8-mile asphalt oval that became known for its fast racing surface, wide grooves, and ability to produce side-by-side competition—making it an ideal venue for a marquee 200-lap event.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Montana Raceway Park developed a reputation as a premier racing facility, regularly drawing large weekly crowds and hosting touring series from across the region. The Montana 200 became its signature event, often attracting 40–50 car fields and some of the best Super Late Model drivers from the Northwest and Western Canada.
The race itself quickly earned “crown jewel” status, with a combination of long-run strategy, tire management, and track position playing critical roles over the demanding 200-lap distance. Winning the Montana 200 became a defining achievement for drivers competing in the region.
Among the most notable competitors in event history was Gary Lewis, who dominated the Montana 200 with four victories, including an impressive streak from 2007 through 2010. His success helped cement the race’s reputation as a proving ground for elite-level talent.
Montana Raceway Park remained the home of the Montana 200 for nearly three decades, serving as a hub for motorsports in the Flathead Valley. However, following the 2019 racing season, the facility ceased operations and was ultimately closed in 2020, marking the end of an era for Montana racing fans.
Despite the closure, the Montana 200 endured. In 2021, the event was revived at Mission Valley Super Oval in Polson, Montana. While the venue changed, the spirit and prestige of the race carried forward, ushering in a new chapter while honoring its historic roots.
Expanded Race Weekend: Glacier 100 & Friday Night Action
Adding to the excitement of race weekend, the Glacier 100, featuring the Canadian Super Truck Racing Series, will be held in conjunction with the Montana 200. This addition brings an international element to the event, showcasing a unique and highly competitive division that is expected to draw strong fan interest.
The Canadian Super Truck Racing Series is known for its distinct style of racing, featuring high-powered, purpose-built pickup trucks competing on short tracks throughout Western Canada. The series emphasizes close competition, driver accessibility, and fan engagement, and has developed a strong following for its aggressive racing style and visually distinctive vehicles.
With teams traveling from across Canada, the Glacier 100 is expected to bring a diverse field of competitors to Mission Valley Super Oval, further elevating the level of competition and expanding the event’s cross-border appeal.
Race weekend action will begin Friday night following Montana 200 qualifying, with both the Hobby Stock division and the Canadian Super Trucks taking to the track. This expanded schedule creates a full weekend of racing, giving fans multiple marquee events and added value while teams benefit from increased track time and exposure.
The inclusion of the Glacier 100 further strengthens the Montana 200 weekend as a premier destination event for racers and fans across the Northwest and Western Canada.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With the Northwest Super Late Model Series now officiating the event and an expanded race weekend schedule, the 2026 edition of the Montana 200 is expected to feature a highly competitive and regionally representative field. Teams will bring refined setups and race strategies to tackle the demanding 200-lap format, while fans can expect intense on-track action across multiple divisions.
Additional event details, including race weekend schedule, ticket information, and driver entries, will be announced in the coming months.
About the Montana 200
The Montana 200 is one of the premier Super Late Model races in the Pacific Northwest, known for its competitive fields, rich history, and passionate fan base. Since its inception, the event has remained a must-win race for drivers across the region.
Article Credit: Josh Robinson
