The 2026 BFGoodrich Mint 400 has officially set a new standard for participation, drawing a massive 172-car field that establishes the event as one of the most competitive in off-road racing. According to reports from UTV Action Magazine, the Pro UTV class saw a staggering 65 entries, underscoring the explosive growth and interest in the segment.

Video: Dust clouds were thrown at the BAJA 500! #racing #baja500 #polaris — Shreddy Lyfe

Pro UTV Top 10 Finishers

Competition was fierce at the front of the pack, with established names dominating the leaderboard as they crossed the finish line:

  • 1st: Brock Heger (Polaris)
  • 2nd: Mitch Guthrie Jr. (Polaris)
  • 3rd: Phil Blurton (Can-Am)
  • 4th: Ethan Groom (Polaris)
  • 5th: Cayden McCachren (Polaris)
  • 6th: Brayden Baker (Polaris)
  • 7th: Blake Wilkey (Polaris)
  • 8th: Shawn Saxton (Polaris)
  • 9th: Sierra Romo (Polaris)
  • 10th: Brice Allen (Polaris)
Exciting off-road ATV race on dusty trails in a desert landscape with riders navigating rough terrain.
Photo by Ricardo Avalos on Pexels

Industry Criticism on Class Structure

Despite the record turnout, the event's class structure has drawn scrutiny. Cain, writing for UTV Action Magazine, noted concerns regarding the proliferation of niche classes. The argument suggests that by spreading racers across too many categories—such as the distinction between 'Pro Stock' and 'Pro Stock Modified'—promoters may be diluting the competitive pool and potential prize payouts. The sentiment remains that racers should prioritize classes with the highest entry counts to ensure the most significant challenge and reward.

Dynamic off-road buggy racing through the sandy desert of Ensenada, Mexico.
Photo by Diego Rodriguez on Pexels

How to Follow the Action

For those unable to attend the event in Las Vegas, Nevada, the organizers have provided several ways to track the progress of the field. The main race live stream is hosted on the official Mint 400 website. Furthermore, many independent drivers are providing their own perspectives through in-car camera feeds on YouTube, including competitors like Dustin Jones, Matt Burroughs, and Michael McFayden. Notably, the Polaris Factory Race Team has opted not to provide public access to their in-car footage.

Action-packed off-road buggy race showcasing thrilling maneuvers on a muddy track in Tennessee.
Photo by Ruben Noel on Pexels
Video by MICHAEL EBERLE on Pexels

Breakdown of the 2026 Field

The field is diverse, ranging from professional veterans to youth categories. As of February 25, 2026, the entry list consisted of:

  • Pro UTV: 65
  • Pro Turbo: 17
  • Pro N/A: 8
  • Pro Stock Modified: 11
  • Pro Stock: 7
  • Pro Open Rock: 2
  • Stock Modified: 5
  • Sportsman: 2
  • Youth Categories (1000, 570, 250, 200, 170, 170 Prod): 41 total

As the season progresses, eyes remain on the Pro UTV class, which continues to be the primary draw for both teams and spectators alike.