UFC legend Randy Couture was airlifted to a burn center with serious injuries after crashing during practice runs at a racetrack in Kansas City … TMZ Sports has learned.

Couture — who was slated to make his National Hot Rod Association racing debut this year — was involved in an accident during preparation on Tuesday … resulting in first- and second-degree burns, trauma injuries and smoke inhalation.

The 62-year-old fighter, actor and Army vet completely wrecked the car he was driving at the time of the incident … although it’s unclear what caused it.

Luckily, we’re told he is expected to recover.

Couture — a UFC Hall of Famer — has been practicing in the pro stock division for his upcoming race campaign.

Just months ago, Scag Racing announced a Pro Mod program in the NHRA … with Couture going through the licensing process in order to compete sometime in 2025.

Couture was stoked about the venture at the time … saying, “This is a new way to tickle that competitive spirit that I’ve had most of my life; a new place for me to get competitive and make a mark in racing.”

“I’ll bring all the things I developed as a wrestler and martial artist into this realm and see what we can do. I have no idea how it’s going to go, but I’m excited about the opportunities.”

Couture is one of the best to ever compete in MMA — he was one of UFC’s first breakout stars … and won six championships with the promotion.