It wasn’t too long ago that Arctic Cat found itself in limbo. The brand, once a dominant force in snowmobiles and off-road machines, had grown quiet, too quiet. But that started to change when Brad Darling, a familiar name in the powersports world, stepped in and took control. For longtime fans, this was more than just a leadership shuffle. It signaled something deeper: Arctic Cat was getting back to its roots.
And now, the clearest sign yet: Team Arctic is officially returning to snowmobile racing for the 2025-2026 season.
It’s a big deal, not just for the racers gearing up for a comeback, but for the industry as a whole. Arctic Cat’s racing legacy spans over 60 years, with a deep bench of riders, engineers, and fans who’ve always seen the racetrack as more than just competition. It’s a proving ground. A workshop at speed. And a huge driver of innovation.
“I am excited to announce that we are back with full support for the 2025-2026 season,” said Brad Darling, who’s now CEO and president of Arctic Cat. He’s wasted no time making moves, and reviving the race program is arguably the boldest yet.
Race manager Mike Kloety, a name just as synonymous with Team Arctic as the sleds themselves, didn’t hold back either. “I am extremely excited that Team Arctic is back supporting riders on their quest for the checkered flag,” he shared. “We’ll continue to use the race program to advance Arctic Cat snowmobiles for many years to come.”
The return was made official with the release of the 2025 race program application on May 22—tight timeline and all. Riders only have until June 8 to get their applications in, underscoring how quickly Arctic Cat is ramping things up. For a program that almost didn’t happen, it’s a serious power move.
It also sends a strong message: Arctic Cat’s new owners aren’t just here to keep the lights on. They’re pushing forward, building product, and leaning hard into the enthusiast-first ethos that made the brand matter in the first place.
This isn’t just about racing. It’s about restoring confidence in a name that many felt was fading into the background. And in a segment as passionate as snowmobiles and powersports, that confidence goes a long way.
So yeah, Arctic Cat’s back in the game. With Darling at the helm and the checkered flag in sight, things are finally looking up again. Here’s hoping they stay that way.
Sources: Team Arctic, Motorcycle & Powersports News
