South Georgia Motorsports Park has tabbed respected racer, veteran, and industry figure Don O’Neal as its new General Manager, tasking him with leading the facility into a new era ahead of a packed 2026 schedule that includes the return of the NHRA Southern Nationals.
O’Neal, a U.S. Army veteran with extensive experience across motorsports, business, and event operations, will oversee all day-to-day activity at the Valdosta-area facility. His role includes racer and fan experience, partner development, community engagement, and the continued evolution of SGMP into a true multi-use destination while keeping drag racing at its core.
“SGMP is a special place for racers and fans,” O’Neal said. “Our goal is simple: run efficient shows, improve the racer and fan experience, and build strong community and sponsor partnerships.”
Track owner Raul Torres says O’Neal’s blend of on-track experience and operational leadership made him the clear choice to guide SGMP’s next phase.
“Don combines practical race operations with sponsor and community insight,” Torres said. “We’re investing in facility upgrades and a sustainable schedule, and Don will lead that plan with accountability. This is about boosting tourism, educational opportunities, and economic growth for South Georgia and North Florida.”
Under O’Neal’s leadership, SGMP is focusing on several near-term priorities, including:
- Operational efficiency: on-time shows, improved traffic flow, and a reinforced safety-first culture.
- Enhanced racer and fan experience: better communication, improved wayfinding and signage, and hospitality upgrades.
- Multi-purpose programming: adding concerts, festivals, and lifestyle events that complement traditional race weekends.
- Regional economic impact: deeper alignment with hotels, tourism officials, and workforce programs while tracking local economic output through periodic reporting.
- Community and partner alignment: strengthening local partnerships and defining measurable ROI for sponsors.
The announcement comes as SGMP prepares for one of its most significant seasons yet, highlighted by the NHRA Southern Nationals returning to the facility in May 2026.
For more information and event updates, visit GoRaceSGMP.com or follow @GoRaceSGMP on social media.
This story was originally published on December 11, 2025. 
