For the past few months, the IHRA has been dealing with executive and internal shakeups. But a sudden dismissal has taken that to another level.

The International Hot Rod Association fired President Leah Martin mid-event during the Thunder On the Beach race. This follows months of executive instability for the organization. Martin was removed from her position during the Thunder On the Beach offshore powerboat race in Cocoa Beach. 

The new IHRA president, Tommy Thomassie, wrote in a text message, "The International Hot Rod Association and Leah Martin have parted ways effective immediately.”

He further added, “The organization appreciates her efforts and contributions over the past several months and looks forward to continuing to build on its momentum across all disciplines.” 

The former president replied emotionally. “I’m at a loss for words. I have poured my heart and soul into this sport at the cost of time with my family. I wish it all the best.” 

Just six months prior to being let go, Martin made history as she became the first woman to lead a major U.S. motorsports sanctioning body. Under her leadership, several positive changes, like IHRA’s expansion efforts, took place. 

The IHRA previously aimed to challenge NASCAR’s dominance in the U.S. market. Earlier in February 2026, the former Chief Operating Officer, Scott Woodruff, revealed the plans that the series owner, Darryl Cuttell, had. 

“One of the questions I asked him, one of the first, was what is your exit strategy or what is your disaster plan,” Woodruff said. “He said, ‘I don’t have one,’ and I asked, ‘What do you mean?’ and he said he doesn’t fail."

However, fast forward a few months, and instead of posing as a legitimate threat to NASCAR, the series is dealing with instability from within.

Executive turmoil continues to weigh on IHRA operations

For over two months, the organization has been facing instability. Earlier in March, just days after challenging the France family, Chief Operating Officer Scott Woodruff and Vice President of Advertising Brett Underwood were relieved of their duties via text. 

The organization soon promoted Doug Foley Jr. to the Chief Operating Officer role to help stabilize day-to-day racing operations.

The internal turmoil became apparent as NHRA attendees reported that the shake-up was impacting IHRA vendors and contractors. Many of the vendors and contractors claimed they have not been paid.

Over the years, several senior executive members have parted ways with the sanctioning body, which has further destabilized the series.

The IHRA now faces the task of preventing organizational collapse rather than competing with NASCAR.

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco

Edited by

Koushik Biswas