Because of what the Martelli Brothers called “insufficient industry support due to economic instability and logistical challenges,” the Mint 400’s short course program has been delayed to 2026.

Short course was added to the 2025 Mint’s undercard in November, with two days of racing planned on March 7 and 8. Every Pro class was invited to take part, joining their desert counterparts at the Las Vegas Strip parade before racing along the 400’s start/finish line in Primm.

However, with the economy still in flux and the weekend only a month away, organizers feel now is not the time to bring the discipline out to Nevada.

“We believe strongly in short course off-road racing and despite exploring all alternatives, proceeding with these races would compromise the ability to create a high-caliber event that The Mint 400 is known for,” reads the Martellis’ statement.

“We remain optimistic for short course racing opportunities at The Mint 400, as we assess future opportunities. We are hopeful for a time when we can come together and deliver a short course event that meets expectations and strengthens our industry connections.”

Had the races taken place, they would have mostly followed the same rulebook as Championship Off-Road save for some slight differences.

The track was also the same that was used for past short course events. Primm hosted the inaugural Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series race in 2009 as well as that year’s finale, though it was axed a year after due to weather and poor attendance. The town was also supposed to welcome Great American Shortcourse in 2023 before the race got relocated to Wild Horse Pass.

“We are not getting the support we need to do this the right way,” wrote CEO Matt Martelli in an email sent out Friday. “As the economy improves I am sure we will be able to (have) the proper support to execute short course at the level it deserves.”

Featured image credit: Art Eugenio / Trackside Photo