Ultra4 Racers to Make Pikes Peak Debut in 2026 After 15-Year Hiatus

From purpose-built single-seaters to high-tech, factory-backed EVs, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has always showcased a diverse field of competitors. That variety is set to expand in 2026.

Three drivers from the Ultra4 USA Championship will make their official debut at the legendary event on June 21, 2026. It marks the first time Ultra4 racers have competed in the climb since 2011.

Meet the Ultra4 Drivers Taking on Pikes Peak

• Loren Healy, a multiple-time King of the Hammers champion, will pilot the Ford Bronco-bodied 4400-class machine “El Bandito.”
• Phillip McGilton will also compete in the 4400 class.
• Paul Wolff will drive his own 4400-class vehicle.

Why Ultra4 at Pikes Peak Is a Unique Challenge

Ultra4 is often described as the “Olympics of off-roading,” blending high-speed desert racing with technical rock crawling. The sport’s marquee event, the King of the Hammers, demands versatile drivers who can handle extreme terrain. Drivers like Healy have proven their adaptability—he once drove a Bronco up Moab’s Hell’s Gate in reverse and was a standout performer at this year’s FAT Ice Race.

However, the Pikes Peak Hill Climb presents an entirely different set of obstacles. The 12.42-mile course features 156 turns, many perched on drop-offs of hundreds or thousands of feet with no guardrails. The race begins at 4,725 feet above sea level and finishes at the 14,115-foot summit, where thinner air reduces engine power and downforce. The course has been fully paved since 2012, further removing competitors from their typical off-road environment.

Ultra4’s Pikes Peak History and What to Expect in 2026

Ultra4 last competed officially at Pikes Peak in 2011, when a contingent of six drivers entered the event. Dave Cole, founder of the Ultra4 series, secured third place in the Pikes Peak Open division with a time of 13:05.318.

In 2022, Levi Shirley brought an IFS single-seater to the 100th running of Pikes Peak. Despite rolling the car at Engineers’ Corner, Shirley completed the race in 13:44.532—a time that still outpaced six other competitors.

With Ultra4 returning to Pikes Peak in 2026, fans can expect a fresh dynamic as off-road specialists adapt to the mountain’s unique demands. The event promises high-speed action, technical precision, and the thrill of a crossover between two distinct racing disciplines.

“That gives you an idea of what we can expect when Ultra4 returns to Pikes Peak this June. Hopefully everybody will keep the shiny side up this time.”

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