In recent years, multi-division racing events have become a defining trend across the motorsports landscape. From national series to regional tours, tracks are increasingly choosing to host weekends that combine several divisions into one action-packed showcase. For the New England Truck Series (NETS), this shift represents both an opportunity and a challenge—one that could redefine how the series grows, attracts fans, and secures sponsorships.
What Exactly Are Multi-Division Race Events?
A multi-division race event brings together multiple categories of competition during a single weekend. Instead of fans buying tickets to see only one type of race, they enjoy a full lineup—trucks, street stocks, modifieds, late models, or even legends—all battling on the same card. This creates a “festival of racing” atmosphere where audiences see variety and drivers get more exposure.
In New England, the Northeast Classic at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is a perfect example. The 2025 event will feature six different divisions, including the Evolve Bank Pro Truck Challenge, ACT Late Models, Modifieds, and support classes. Fans can watch everything from top-tier touring cars to grassroots racers—all in one place.
Why Multi-Division Racing Is Trending
So why are promoters, drivers, and fans gravitating toward these combined events? Several key factors are driving the momentum:
- Fan Value: A single ticket grants access to several divisions, making the experience feel bigger and more exciting. Variety keeps fans engaged throughout the day.
- Driver Exposure: For divisions like the New England Truck Series, being part of a larger event places drivers in front of bigger audiences and media outlets. It is a chance to show talent to fans who might not normally attend a truck race.
- Sponsor Appeal: More fans in the stands and more coverage online means better visibility for sponsor logos. Businesses are more likely to invest in series that guarantee larger reach.
- Shared Costs: Running events is expensive. By combining multiple divisions, tracks can split infrastructure, staffing, and promotional costs, making the economics more sustainable.
Benefits for the New England Truck Series
For NETS, multi-division weekends could accelerate growth. Here are several benefits:
- Increased Visibility: When fans come for a marquee event like a modified or late model race, they also get exposed to NETS trucks. This introduces new people to the series without requiring a separate marketing push.
- Pathway for Drivers: Truck drivers who shine in front of larger audiences may attract attention from bigger tours or sponsors. This elevates the profile of NETS as a stepping-stone series.
- Community Building: Sharing the track with other divisions fosters relationships among drivers, teams, and officials. The racing community grows stronger when divisions support one another.
- Enhanced Fan Experience: Fans are more likely to spend an entire day at the track if they know they will see six different styles of racing instead of one. NETS becomes part of a broader entertainment package.
Challenges of Multi-Division Events
Despite the benefits, there are hurdles that promoters and teams must navigate:
- Scheduling Conflicts: With many divisions vying for track time, delays or shortened races can frustrate both drivers and fans.
- Logistics: Pits, garages, and safety crews need to accommodate more cars and trucks than usual, which can strain smaller facilities.
- Competitive Balance: Some divisions may feel overshadowed if the spotlight shines primarily on one marquee event.
- Ticket Pricing: Tracks must find a balance between offering value and covering the higher operational costs of multi-division weekends.
Fan Perspective: More Than Just a Race
For fans, multi-division weekends provide an unforgettable experience. Imagine arriving at the track mid-morning, grabbing food from local vendors, and watching trucks, modifieds, and late models take turns tearing up the asphalt. Each division offers unique thrills—whether it’s the close-quarters bumping of street stocks or the raw horsepower of trucks. The constant action keeps energy levels high and leaves fans with a fuller, more memorable day.
Economic Impact on the Region
Another overlooked benefit of these events is their local economic impact. A six-division weekend can attract thousands of fans, many of whom travel from out of state. This influx supports hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. For small towns hosting NETS events, that revenue is significant. Larger events also draw regional media coverage, amplifying tourism and putting New England tracks on the map nationally.
What the Future Holds for NETS
Looking forward, the New England Truck Series can lean into this trend in several ways:
- Partnerships: Collaborating with other divisions to co-headline events could give NETS more exposure and attract new sponsors.
- Marketing: Promoting NETS as “part of a bigger show” can appeal to fans who want maximum value for their ticket purchase.
- Driver Development: NETS could position itself as a proving ground within multi-division events, where up-and-coming drivers showcase their talent alongside established competitors.
- Fan Engagement: Offering autograph sessions, live social media updates, and behind-the-scenes content can capitalize on the larger audience attending these weekends.
Conclusion
The rise of multi-division racing reflects larger shifts in motorsports: fans want variety, tracks need financial sustainability, and drivers crave exposure. For the New England Truck Series, aligning with this trend could be transformative. By joining forces with other divisions, NETS has the chance to expand its reach, strengthen community ties, and cement its role as one of the most exciting series in the region.
As racing in New England continues to evolve, multi-division events are more than a passing trend—they are the blueprint for the future.
Want to know more about what makes NETS unique? Read our feature: Inside the New England Truck Series: What Makes This Race Unique. For a historical look, visit The Rise of the New England Truck Series.