2026-06-26
Drag Racing Returns to the Aurum 1006 km Race Weekend
From July 15–18, Palanga will once again become Lithuania’s motorsport capital. Alongside the “Aurum 1006 km Powered by Hankook” race, the “A.R.S.A. group Drag 2026” competition will return to the seaside resort, once again serving as one of the highlights of the country’s biggest racing weekend.
Fans of drag racing should act quickly, as competitor registration is now open. Those wishing to test themselves on the track can register online at https://racing.lt/drag.
Drag racing first became part of the “Aurum 1006 km Race” programme in 2006 and quickly established itself as a permanent fixture of the event. Over nearly two decades, the competition has built a strong community, attracting both experienced racers and automotive enthusiasts from Lithuania and neighbouring countries who continuously refine and develop their cars.
This year’s format will remain unchanged from last year. On Thursday, competitors will begin with qualifying runs over the 1/8-mile (201.168 m) distance. The fastest drivers will then advance to the main “Aurum 1006 km Race” circuit later that evening, where the finals will take place in front of spectators.
Thursday’s programme will also feature competition for the Lithuanian Police Cup. Vytautas Grašys, Head of the Public Order Bureau at the Lithuanian Police Department, says the award has become a valued tradition.
“For several years now, the Lithuanian Police have presented a special trophy to the winners of the drag racing competition in Palanga. We firmly believe that speed belongs on the racetrack, not on public roads. We encourage both drivers and spectators to seek adrenaline at safe motorsport events, while choosing responsible driving and safe speeds in everyday traffic.”
On Friday, the action moves back to the strip beyond the Klaipėda Turn, where competitors will race over the full 1/4-mile (402.336 m) distance. It is there that this year’s fastest drivers will be determined and the main trophies awarded.
According to Aivaras Rudzis, organiser of “A.R.S.A. group Drag,” the combination of two different race formats is what makes the Palanga event unique not only in Lithuania but across Europe.
“This is one of the most unique drag racing events of its kind in Europe. Over two days, spectators can experience different drag racing formats and see an incredibly diverse range of vehicles - from everyday road cars to highly specialised race-built machines. Success is about much more than horsepower. In the fastest classes, victory is often decided by reaction times measured in hundredths or even thousandths of a second, together with driver skill and vehicle preparation,” says Rudzis.
He emphasises that drag racing is not only about achieving the fastest time but also about providing a safe, professional environment where speed belongs. Here, competitors can push themselves to the limit without compromising safety, while spectators can experience one of motorsport’s most dynamic disciplines from close range.
As every year, organisers expect competitors from all three Baltic States as well as neighbouring countries. The starting field is expected to feature an impressive variety of machinery - from everyday hatchbacks and sporty sedans to powerful, purpose-built drag racing cars.