Arctic Cat is making significant strides in its resurgence in the powersports industry. With a rich history and a renewed focus, the company is set to make a strong impact in both racing and snowmobile production. Here’s the latest news and developments surrounding Arctic Cat.
Team Arctic's Racing Comeback
Team Arctic has a racing legacy spanning over 60 years. The need to test yourself against the best is what drives many of us, especially anyone who has ever donned the Team Arctic colors. 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.
Arctic Cat found itself in limbo not too long ago. 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.
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. It also sends a strong message: Arctic Cat’s new owners aren’t just here to keep the lights on.
On Thursday May 22nd, Team Arctic released their much-anticipated snowmobile race program application, answering the question, will Arctic Cat be participating in racing this year. Due to the late release of the application process, there is a shortened deadline to get your race applications in by June 8th.
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According to long time Arctic Cat snowmobile racing manager, Mike Kloety, “I am extremely excited that Team Arctic is back supporting riders on their quest for the checkered flag and will continue to utilize the race program to advance Arctic Cat snowmobiles for many years to come.”
“I am extremely excited that Team Arctic is back supporting riders on their quest for the checkered flag,” shared race manager Mike Kloety, a name just as synonymous with Team Arctic as the sleds themselves.
Brad Darling, CEO and President of Arctic Cat, stated, “Team Arctic has a rich racing history spanning over 60 years and I am excited to announce that we are back with full support for the 2025-2026 season!”
“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.
It’s a big deal, not just for the racers gearing up for a comeback, but for the industry as a whole. This isn’t just about racing. It’s about restoring confidence in a name that many felt was fading into the background. 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.
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Production of 2026 Snowmobile Models
Arctic Cat is actively building 2026 snowmobile models and has already completed an early-order program. Arctic Cat is building 2026 snowmobile models and has already completed an early-order program.
The success of this plan hinges on Arctic Cat’s suppliers and vendors. Traditionally, snowmobile OEMs finalize the number of engines needed for the next model year, providing engine suppliers with almost a year to fulfill the orders. This year, the timeline is compressed, making supplier coordination crucial.
Will Arctic Cat be able to produce this many sleds and get them into showrooms this fall? The answer is yes…with a caveat. This plan’s success will be determined by Arctic Cat’s suppliers and vendors. For instance, traditionally snowmobile OEMs nail down the number of engines needed for the next model year to give engine suppliers almost a year to produce the ordered engines. This year the timeline is tight.
Here’s what we believe is happening and will continue over the next year. Obviously Arctic Cat will be building Arctic Cat snowmobile still powered by Yamaha engines and Cat’s proprietary domestic engines. We think it’s safe to say that alongside its 2-stroke-powered models, Arctic Cat will continue to offer Thundercats powered by Yamaha’s 998 Genesis turbocharged triple. Also look for at least one model - but maybe more - powered by Yamaha’s 1049cc naturally aspirated 4-stroke triple.
Here’s a summary of the expected engine configurations:
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| Engine Type | Possible Models |
|---|---|
| 2-stroke | Various models |
| Yamaha 998 Genesis turbocharged triple | Thundercats |
| Yamaha 1049cc naturally aspirated 4-stroke triple | At least one model, possibly more |
Leadership and Vision
One thing that cannot be underestimated is the skill, talent and raw determination of Brad Darling - now CEO and President of both Arctic Cat and Argo. There are others at the Thief River Falls production facility who are not only incredibly talented but are just as deeply dedicated to seeing Arctic Cat’s successful return.
Since taking possession of Arctic Cat back on April 24th, the new ownership group has ushered many visible advancements to the business and Team Arctic is an important part of Arctic Cat’s DNA.
As you can imagine, things are moving fast at Arctic Cat these days and credit goes to the top-level leadership and acquisition team led by Brad Darling that has revived one of the powersports industry’s most iconic brands.
Argo and Off-Road Developments
In offroad, look for Argo to do what it has been doing for 50 years - continuing to be the world leader in amphibious Xtreme Terrain Vehicles (XTVs), which include Argo’s 6- and 8-wheel XTVs and the amazing Sasquatch amphibious vehicle.
Relationship with Bass Pro Shops
A looming question revolves around the relationship with Bass Pro Shops and what that will look like moving forward. The actual number of Tracker units sold by Bass Pro Shops is not public knowledge at this time.
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