By: Jim Foose / Speedway Action Magazine
The wait is finally over for buggy racing fans. The Buckeye Buggy Super Series (BBSS) has officially unveiled its 2026 campaign, promising a high-octane mix of traditional stomping grounds and exciting new territory.
With a seven-race slate stretching from early May to mid-September, the series is set to test drivers across Ohio and Michigan, blending technical short tracks with high-speed ovals. This year’s calendar is defined by a distinct “new vs. old” narrative, as the series welcomes two new facilities while maintaining its roots at two returning favorites.
Breaking New Ground
The headline for 2026 is undoubtedly the addition of Midvale Speedway and M40 Speedway to the rotation.
Midvale Speedway in Midvale, Ohio, isn’t just dipping a toe in the water—they are diving in headfirst. The 3/10-mile asphalt oval will play a pivotal role in the championship chase, hosting three separate events, including the season finale on September 19.
Also new to the fold is a trip north to Jones, Michigan, to tackle Russell’s M40 Speedway. Known for its unique layout and competitive racing, M40 offers a fresh challenge for the traveling teams who will have to adapt quickly to the new surface early in the season.
Returning Roots
While new tracks bring excitement, tradition remains the backbone of the BBSS. Painesville Speedway and Shady Bowl Speedway return to the schedule for 2026, providing the continuity fans and drivers love.
Painesville Speedway will have the honor of hosting the season opener on May 9, setting the tone for the year, and will welcome the series back for a mid-summer clash in August. Shady Bowl Speedway in DeGraff, Ohio, takes the spotlight in mid-July, continuing its legacy as a staple of the buggy racing circuit.
The 2026 Schedule at a Glance
Mark your calendars. Here is how the 2026 Buckeye Buggy Super Series championship will unfold:
- May 9: Painesville Speedway (Painesville, OH) – Season Opener
- May 16: M40 Speedway (Jones, MI) [Rain Date: Aug 1]
- July 11: Midvale Speedway (Midvale, OH)
- July 18: Shady Bowl Speedway (DeGraff, OH) [Rain Date: Aug 15]
- August 8: Painesville Speedway (Painesville, OH)
- August 22: Midvale Speedway (Midvale, OH)
- September 19: Midvale Speedway (Midvale, OH) – Championship Finale [Rain Date: Oct 3]
A Summer of Speed
The schedule is tightly packed, rewarding consistency and durability. The month of July looks particularly grueling, with back-to-back weekends at Midvale and Shady Bowl that could make or break title hopes.
The season concludes with a heavy dose of Midvale Speedway, where the final two races will be held. Drivers who master the Midvale oval early in July will have a significant advantage when the pressure mounts in August and September.
With support from partners like Roderick Racing Development, Uppercut Tire Service, Lawson Speed Shop, BOSS Pro-Karting, and Speed Craft, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
Fans can follow the action and get the latest updates on the official Buckeye Buggy Super Series Facebook page.
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