Historic Michigan drag racing venue gets new name along with new events

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

MILAN, MI -- A longtime southeast Michigan drag racing venue has a new name as its new owner freshens it up and brings in events.

The Milan Dragway has been renamed Darana Dragway, as new owner Darryl Cuttell takes the helm. Cuttell owns the International Hot Rod Association and Darana Motorsports.

IHRA recently purchased the drag way at 10860 Plank Road, promising "a new chapter with fresh energy and vision" for the motorsport venue, according to a release.

"This track has always meant something special to racers and fans alike," Cuttell said in a statement.

"We're committed to honoring its history while building something even stronger," he said. "The name may be changing, but our goal is to elevate everything that has made this track great."

People on social media have responded to the name change, some commenting that they will always call it "Milan Dragway." Others concluded a new owner investing millions in improvements should call it whatever they want.

"The name Darana Dragway reflects Cuttell's broader investment in the sport through his leadership of the IHRA and Darana Motorsports, while paying tribute to the facility's legacy and future potential," according to IHRA.

Famed competitive drag racer and "Street Outlaws" reality TV star John "Johnny Quick" Kramer envisions the drag way becoming a "premier" entertainment venue for automotive events in Michigan that will attract top racers, he previously told The Ann Arbor News/MLive.

The name change coincided with the Milan venue hosting IHRA's Outlaw Nitro Series for the first time in July. The competitions feature 12,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragsters, nitro Funny Cars, Pro Mods, Mountain Motor Pro Stock, and other racers, who compete for IHRA Iron Man trophies.

The hot rod association has been growing its portfolio by purchasing and renovating venues. It also hosts national events, including the Motor City Nationals, Northern Nationals and IHRA Pro-Am events.

Improvements were already underway before the start of the season, including smoother track, repaired pits, and a redone "shutdown" area with a safety net, where cars speeding hundreds of mph slow down at the end of a race. They are also planning additional improvements, including to the stands and concessions among others.

Milan Dragway first opened in 1964. Previous owners Pam and Perry Merlo and Harold Bullock purchased it in 2021 and began remodeling and repairing it. They remain involved during the transition, as the hot rod association picks up where they left off.