# Drag Illustrated > Drag Racing News, Opinion, Interviews, Photos, Videos and More > Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.3, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://dragillustrated.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [The Fans Cast Their Vote: Elite’s 2027 Pro Stock Preview Brings the House Down in Texas](https://dragillustrated.com/the-fans-cast-their-vote-elites-2027-pro-stock-preview-brings-the-house-down-in-texas/): When Elite Motorsports rolled out the 2027-spec Pro Stock car at the end of Q1 in Ennis, the grandstands answered before the car ever moved. Wes Buck on what that reaction should tell the people making the decisions. - [Justin Ashley Leads SCAG Racing With Second Consecutive Semifinal Finish at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/justin-ashley-leads-scag-racing-with-second-consecutive-semifinal-finish-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Justin Ashley led the way for SCAG Racing on Sunday at the Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex, racing his SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel dragster to a second consecutive semifinal finish. Teammates Will Smith, Daniel Wilkerson and Dave Richards also showed encouraging signs of progress throughout the weekend as the team prepares for the - [Championship Hopes On The Line As NHRA Rolls Into Las Vegas For Penultimate Race](https://dragillustrated.com/championship-hopes-on-the-line-as-nhra-rolls-into-las-vegas-for-penultimate-race/): With only two events remaining in NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, the stakes are high as championship contenders head to the 26th annual MOPAR NHRA Las Vegas Nationals powered by Dodge at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where a strong performance is crucial to keeping their world title hopes alive. It is the fifth - [Chris King Sets Career-Best Numbers at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/chris-king-sets-career-best-numbers-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): NHRA Funny Car driver and team owner Chris King left the Texas NHRA Fall Nationals at the Texas Motorplex with a pair of career-best performances, highlighting the progress his Howards Cams/Competition Products Funny Car team has made throughout the 2026 season. Making his 19th career appearance and third start at the Texas NHRA FallNationals, King recorded his - [Terry Haddock Makes The Most Of Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/terry-haddock-makes-the-most-of-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Texan Terry Haddock showed the kind of grit and resilience that ranchers and cowboys exhibit across the state. The owner and driver of the Concho Supply Inc. Funny Car qualified No. 16 at the Texas NHRA FallNationals in one of the stoutest fields in recent memory before losing in the opening round at Texas Motorplex. - [Alexis DeJoria Delivers Consistent Performance at Texas FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-delivers-consistent-performance-at-texas-fallnationals/): Alexis DeJoria, driver of the John Force Racing Bandero Café Funny Car, had one of the most consistent cars on the property this weekend at the Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex. After collecting several valuable bonus points throughout qualifying, the part-time Austin, Texas resident raced to a quarterfinal finish in eliminations on Sunday in - [Small Tire Pro Stock Focused on Fast and Fun Season Finale in Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/small-tire-pro-stock-focused-on-fast-and-fun-season-finale-in-indy/): Small Tire Pro Stock racers are gearing up for their final race of the year, which is at the NHRA Division 3 Fall Classic National Open, Oct. 23-25, 2026 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indiana. Anticipation is accelerating, as the winner at America’s Great Race Place will receive an NHRA Speed For All - [Kallee Tally Set to Debut New Pro Mod Camaro at Throwdown in T-Town at Tulsa Raceway Park](https://dragillustrated.com/kallee-tally-set-to-debut-new-pro-mod-camaro-at-throwdown-in-t-town-at-tulsa-raceway-park/): When Pro Mod driver Kallee Tally rolls into Tulsa Raceway Park this week for the Mid-West Drag Racing Series Throwdown in T-Town, October 22-24, she’ll be sitting behind the wheel of a brand-new Larry Jeffers-built ’68 Camaro. Tally made her Pro Mod debut last season driving “Scarlett,” another ‘68 Camaro built by Jeffers and owned - [Ron Capps Races to Semifinal Finish at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-races-to-semifinal-finish-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team advanced to the semifinals Sunday at the Texas NHRA FallNationals, closing an eventful weekend at the Texas Motorplex just outside of Dallas. In qualifying, crew chief Dean ‘Guido’ Antonelli tuned Capps' 12,000-horsepower machine to a solid pass of 3.922 seconds at 330.11 mph in the - [Spencer Hyde Shows Consistency in Dallas While Looking Ahead to Finish the Countdown](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-shows-consistency-in-dallas-while-looking-ahead-to-finish-the-countdown/): Spencer Hyde and the Head Contractors & Engineers Funny Car team continued to demonstrate their consistency at the Texas NHRA Fall Nationals, recording a 3.9-second elapsed time on every pass throughout the weekend at Texas Motorplex. Although a first-round loss to J.R. Todd ended Hyde’s race day, the reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year leaves - [Aaron Stanfield Earns Top Fuel License at Texas Motorplex](https://dragillustrated.com/aaron-stanfield-earns-top-fuel-license-at-texas-motorplex/): Elite Motorsports' Aaron Stanfield completed his Top Fuel license Monday at Texas Motorplex, driving Leah Pruett's TSR dragster to a 3.760 at 281.83 mph. - [No Mercy 17 Brings Radial Outlaws Championship Battles to South Georgia](https://dragillustrated.com/no-mercy-17-brings-radial-outlaws-championship-battles-to-south-georgia/): One of radial racing’s marquee events returns to South Georgia Motorsports Park as Duck X Productions’ Summit Racing Equipment No Mercy 17 takes over the Valdosta, Georgia, facility Oct. 19-25. After persistent rain forced the event off its original Oct. 7-11 dates, No Mercy brings championship implications, major payouts, and the sport’s top radial racers - [The War for the Championship Wages On: How Greg Anderson Chipped Away at the Gap in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/the-war-for-the-championship-wages-on-how-greg-anderson-chipped-away-at-the-gap-in-dallas/): Greg Anderson thrives in battle. That character trait is likely part of the secret to his success; the most winning driver in the history of NHRA Pro Stock didn't simply stumble into six world championships. There is something inside of the Minnesota native that continues to drive him, year after year, race after race. This - [Jordan Vandergriff Nabs Semifinal Finish at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-nabs-semifinal-finish-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Jordan Vandergriff went into the semifinal round of the Texas NHRA FallNationals against Matt Hagan knowing a win would move John Force Racing’s Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team one round closer to the 2026 NHRA Funny Car point leader but a loss would extend Hagan’s lead over the second-place Vandergriff with just two - [Maddi Gordon Races to Third Top Fuel Final Round at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-races-to-third-top-fuel-final-round-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): NHRA Rookie of the Year contender Maddi Gordon continued to impress during the Texas NHRA FallNationals, racing to a runner-up finish on Sunday at the Texas Motorplex. Competing in just her 18th professional event, the driver of the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster advanced to her third career final round, defeating Shawn Reed, Doug Kalitta, - [Mark Pawuk Closes Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series Season With Victory in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/mark-pawuk-closes-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-series-season-with-victory-in-dallas/): Reigning two-time Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown world champion Mark Pawuk closed out the 2026 season with a victory at the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals today outrunning Lee Hartman in the final round. In a close race, Pawuk’s winning time of 7.522 seconds at 185.07 mph got to the finish line first over Hartman’s 7.542 second, - [Bartone Bros. Racing Win Top Alcohol Funny Car World Championship](https://dragillustrated.com/bartone-bros-racing-win-top-alcohol-funny-car-world-championship/): Sixth TAFC title for Bartone, Bellemeur, Boggs. - [RAD Torque Systems to back Joey Gladstone for full 2027 season aboard Matt Smith Racing Buell](https://dragillustrated.com/rad-torque-systems-to-back-joey-gladstone-for-full-2027-season-aboard-matt-smith-racing-buell/): Three-time national event winner Joey Gladstone will ride a Matt Smith Racing Buell for the full 2027 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle season with primary support from RAD Torque Systems. - [Automotive Racing Products Adds Support To Annual California Hot Rod Reunion](https://dragillustrated.com/automotive-racing-products-adds-support-to-annual-california-hot-rod-reunion/): The upcoming California Hot Rod Reunion presented by Good Vibrations Motorsports will benefit from special bonus cash awards from Automotive Racing Products (ARP) worth $12,500. These include $1,000 for the winners of Top Fuel and Funny Car, $500 for AA/FA and additional $250 awards for Heritage Series Groups 1 and 2, Pro Mod, and other - [Antron Brown Wrangles Second Win of 2026 at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-wrangles-second-win-of-2026-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Antron Brown returned to the track where he earned his first NHRA national event victory and added another milestone Sunday, winning the Top Fuel final at the Texas NHRA FallNationals at the Texas Motorplex. The four-time world champion drove his Matco Tools dragster to a 3.706-second pass at 335.75 mph in the final round. Rookie - [Reigning Pro Stock Champ Dallas Glenn Regains Points Lead, Leaves Dallas With National Record and Win](https://dragillustrated.com/reigning-pro-stock-champ-dallas-glenn-regains-points-lead-leaves-dallas-with-national-record-and-win/): Dallas Glenn came to Texas Motorplex on a mission. The reigning Pro Stock world champion led the points for the bulk of the year, won the regular season championship, and looked to be in great shape to fight for a second consecutive Mission Foods Drag Racing Series title. But when the Countdown to the Championship - [Brown, Todd, Glenn, and M. Smith Go Big in Dallas With Wins at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/brown-todd-glenn-and-m-smith-go-big-in-dallas-with-wins-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown picked up his second win of the season on Sunday at Texas Motorplex, defeating standout rookie Maddi Gordon in the final round of the Texas NHRA FallNationals. J.R. Todd (Funny Car), Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also won the 18th of 20 races - [Glenn Sets Pro Stock Record; Langdon, Beckman, and Herrera Qualify No. 1 at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/glenn-sets-pro-stock-record-langdon-beckman-and-herrera-qualify-no-1-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Reigning world champ Dallas Glenn made the quickest run in Pro Stock history in front of a massive crowd on Saturday at Texas Motorplex, taking the No. 1 qualifying position with a world-record run at the Texas NHRA FallNationals. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also qualified - [Langdon, Beckman, G. Stanfield, and Herrera Wrangle Provisional No. 1 Spots in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-beckman-g-stanfield-and-herrera-wrangle-provisional-no-1-spots-in-dallas/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon made the quickest run of his career during “JEGS Friday Night Live” at Texas Motorplex, rolling to the provisional No. 1 qualifier to win the “Battle for the Saddle” to kick off this weekend’s NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex. Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Gaige - [Four-time JEGS Allstars qualifier Bo Butner set to make a run for the trophy in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/four-time-jegs-allstars-qualifier-bo-butner-set-to-make-a-run-for-the-trophy-in-dallas/): The acclaimed JEGS Allstars are on the wish list for any NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series competitor. The best of the best in each division come together once a year for the special race, pairing up to determine the best division and the top drivers overall in each category. This year, two-time world champion - [Six-Time World Champion Justin Lamb Locked in to Race for JEGS Allstars Title in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/six-time-world-champion-justin-lamb-locked-in-to-race-for-jegs-allstars-title-in-dallas/): Justin Lamb has accomplished much in his career as an NHRA drag racer, but there is one thing remaining on the bucket list for the six-time Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series world champion: winning the JEGS Allstars. Lamb will have the opportunity to race for the coveted victory on Friday during the 41st annual NHRA - [Gaige Herrera Eyes Texas-Sized Championship Opportunity in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/gaige-herrera-eyes-texas-sized-championship-opportunity-in-dallas/): Gaige Herrera enters the Texas NHRA FallNationals at the famed Texas Motorplex as the most recent Pro Stock Motorcycle winner on the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour and just 32 points out of the lead. If he wants to earn a third world title in four years, he’ll need to get by - [Emmons Motorsports Team Racing for Cowboy Hats, Diamond Wallys, and Allstars Glory at Texas FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/emmons-motorsports-team-racing-for-cowboy-hats-diamond-wallys-and-allstars-glory-at-texas-fallnationals/): There is no denying the energy that swells at Texas Motorplex for their annual Stampede of Speed. The otherwise-quiet city of Ennis comes alive in the fall as the 10-day event draws throngs of fans and a well-populated roster of NHRA racers. The festivities are in full swing, and now, the famed Texas Motorplex cowboy - [Steve Johnson Supported by the Texas Capital Air Show in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-supported-by-the-texas-capital-air-show-in-dallas/): Steve Johnson will continue his 40th anniversary season of Pro Stock Motorcycle competition by heading to the Lone Star state for the 41st annual Texas NHRA FallNationals, with support from the Texas Capital Air Show. The fourth of six races on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship, the event is - [Fuel Altered CHAOS Ready to Rock Tucson Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/fuel-altered-chaos-ready-to-rock-tucson-dragway/): The biggest altered event in the world, Fuel Altered CHAOS, is gearing up to bring that run whatcha’ brung outlaw CHAOS excitement to Tucson Dragway, November 5-7. Following the highly successful debut event last November in Tucson where Lyle Greenberg, Mitch Bowen and Reed Taylor won their respective A-B-C Fields, the excitement for this upcoming - [Matt Hagan Aims to Maintain Points Lead, Leah Pruett Flying Mobil 1 Colors in Dallas](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-hagan-aims-to-maintain-points-lead-leah-pruett-flying-mobil-1-colors-in-dallas/): The Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship rolls into Texas Motorplex for the 38th annual Texas NHRA FallNationals, and Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) enters the fourth event of the six-race playoff with strong momentum across both Nitro categories. Mobil 1 Top Fuel driver Leah Pruett and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Funny Car - [Funny Car's Austin Prock Thinking Big In Dallas at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-cars-austin-prock-thinking-big-in-dallas-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Back in the NHRA Funny Car championship hunt, Austin Prock’s bid for a third straight world title hits an important point at this weekend’s NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex. The finale of the huge 10-day Stampede of Speed takes place at the historic facility, kicking off the second half of the six-race Countdown to the - [PEAK Saddles Up With Drag Race Bracket Bonanza for Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/peak-saddles-up-with-drag-race-bracket-bonanza-for-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): As the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series rolls into Texas for the Texas NHRA FallNationals, PEAK will be part of the excitement surrounding one of the sport’s signature fall events. Taking place during the Texas Motorplex’s annual Stampede of Speed, the race weekend brings together championship-caliber competition, fan entertainment and a celebration of drag - [Jordan Vandergriff Looking to Seal the Deal in Dallas at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-looking-to-seal-the-deal-in-dallas-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Jordan Vandergriff made his first final-round appearance at the 2019 FallNationals in Top Fuel, and the driver of John Force Racing’s Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car has been waiting seven years to take his success one step further at the October 16-18 Texas NHRA FallNationals. Vandergriff qualified sixth and eliminated Clay Millican, Lee Callaway - [Chris King Galloping Into Stampede of Speed](https://dragillustrated.com/chris-king-galloping-into-stampede-of-speed/): For Funny Car team owner and driver Chris King this NHRA season has played out like an old school western movie where the hero is continually under siege, but he continues to fight back. Heading into the Texas Fall Nationals and second weekend of the Stampede of Speed at Texas Motorplex, October 15-18 King and - [Top Fuel Rookie Will Smith Looks For Dream Weekend in Dallas at Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuel-rookie-will-smith-looks-for-dream-weekend-in-dallas-at-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): The first three races of the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs have meant the best three events in Will Smith’s young Top Fuel career, as the standout rookie has come alive in the postseason. He’s picked up six round wins to open the postseason in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, including his - [Melanie Johnson Sets Personal Best and Claims Runner-up Finish at Texas Motorplex](https://dragillustrated.com/melanie-johnson-sets-personal-best-and-claims-runner-up-finish-at-texas-motorplex/): Melanie Johnson and the Speedmaster Top Alcohol Dragster team kicked off the Stampede of Speed with a strong performance at the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Regional event at Texas Motorplex, earning a runner-up finish and setting a new career best elapsed time.Johnson set the tone early in qualifying, laying down a stellar 5.173-second - [Funny Car's Terry Haddock Looking to Make an Impact in NHRA Countdown](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-cars-terry-haddock-looking-to-make-an-impact-in-nhra-countdown/): For veteran Funny Car team owner and driver Terry Haddock, competing at the Stampede of Speed and Texas NHRA FallNationals is more than just a race. Haddock lives in New Braunfels, Texas, his primary sponsor, Concho Supply, Inc., is a Texas-based company, and he has had success at the lead-up exhibition races, winning the Texas - [Elite Motorsports Riding High Heading Into Texas Motorplex for Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-riding-high-heading-into-texas-motorplex-for-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): Elite Motorsports is riding high into the Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex, bringing a surge of momentum, recent victories, and a deep-rooted history to the team's defining hometown race. Coming off a strong stretch in the Countdown to the Championship, the team arrives in Ennis having swept the opening three-race. Troy Coughlin Jr. kicked - [NHRA Countdown to the Championship Hits Halfway Point in Dramatic Fashion](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-countdown-to-the-championship-hits-halfway-point-in-dramatic-fashion/): The first three races of the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs have certainly lived up to the billing. There’s been record runs, sellout crowds, dominant performances, surprise winners and massive moves made – and we’re only at the halfway point of the six-race playoffs. After a thrilling three-week sprint in Martin, Rockingham and St. - [Penwell Knights Raceway Joins NHRA Member Track Network For the First Time in Division 4](https://dragillustrated.com/penwell-knights-raceway-joins-nhra-member-track-network-for-the-first-time-in-division-4/): NHRA officials are excited to announce that Penwell Knights Raceway has joined the NHRA Member Track Network for the first time in the South Central Division (Division 4). Known as the Permian Basin’s premier 1/4-mile drag racing facility, the newest track to join the NHRA Member Track Network is located just outside of Odessa, Texas. - [Four NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Drivers Currently Eligible for 2026 Rookie of the Year](https://dragillustrated.com/four-nhra-mission-foods-drag-racing-series-drivers-currently-eligible-for-2026-rookie-of-the-year/): NHRA officials announced the four NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series competitors currently eligible for the 2026 NHRA Rookie of the Year award. The competitors eligible for this year’s award include Pro Stock’s Cody Anderson, Top Fuel driver Maddi Gordon, Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Clay Howey and Top Fuel standout Will Smith. Funny Car’s Dylan - [Season Finale Offers Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Teams One More Chance For Victory](https://dragillustrated.com/season-finale-offers-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-teams-one-more-chance-for-victory/): The final race of the 2026 NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series will offer some of the most seasoned Chevrolet, Dodge and Ford teams one final chance to win a special 75th anniversary NHRA diamond Wally trophy. The 41st annual Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex, October 14-18, will give reigning world champion Mark Pawuk, Raymond - [Cruz Pedregon Races Snap-on “Socket to Breast Cancer” Pink at Texas Motorplex](https://dragillustrated.com/cruz-pedregon-races-snap-on-socket-to-breast-cancer-pink-at-texas-motorplex/): Two-time Funny Car World Champion Cruz Pedregon and primary sponsor Snap-on® are turning the Dodge® Hellcat® Nitro Funny Car pink for the Texas NHRA Fall Nationals at Texas Motorplex, bringing the “Socket to Breast Cancer” message to race fans during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is the program’s 12th year, and Snap-on, its franchisees, and - [The Kid Returns: Billy Hoskinson Heads Back to SCT Nashville to Defend the Crown](https://dragillustrated.com/the-kid-returns-billy-hoskinson-heads-back-to-nashville-to-defend-the-crown/): Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or just aren’t on the internet, in which case, congratulations), you’ve seen the clip. Last October, on pit road at Nashville Superspeedway, Billy “The Kid” Hoskinson left the line in the small tire final at Street Car Takeover Nashville. His twin-turbo, big-block Camaro launched up onto the rear - [How Pro Stock Racer Cody Anderson Has Made a Strong Bid For NHRA Rookie of the Year](https://dragillustrated.com/how-pro-stock-racer-cody-anderson-has-made-a-strong-bid-for-nhra-rookie-of-the-year/): While the historically heavy promotion of the NHRA nitro categories has been known to nudge Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle stories to the background, the drivers and riders in these classes are quietly building stories of their own, year after year. Unaccompanied by thunderous exhibitions of eardrum-rattling runs and tear-inducing nitro fumes, the Pro - [WSOPM: This Is Where It Belongs](https://dragillustrated.com/this-is-where-it-belongs/): Standing on a 50-foot Texas flag with the lights going down, Wes Buck on the Motorplex, a 1996 Lumina, and why he's not going anywhere. - [Tom Martino Wins Famed Halloween Classic 'Gremlin' at Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/tom-martino-wins-famed-halloween-classic-gremlin-at-norwalk/): This past weekend, former PDRA Top Dragster world champion Tom Martino made the trip from Youngstown, Ohio, with his team to compete in Summit Motorsports Park’s 53rd Annual Halloween Classic. Martino entered his Lucas Oil-backed Top Dragster in the Top Gun Shootout, which showcased the quickest eight Top Sportsman (door car) entries vs. the quickest eight - [Blake Denton Wins First PDRA Pro Street World Championship in ‘Bonnie’ Lizzy Musi Tribute Camaro](https://dragillustrated.com/blake-denton-wins-first-pdra-pro-street-world-championship-in-bonnie-lizzy-musi-tribute-camaro/): Blake Denton, the 2023 PDRA Super Street world champion, became a two-time world champion in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series when he claimed his first Liberty’s Gears Pro Street presented by KTR Drag Racing season title. He held off five other drivers who were in contention going into the Pro Line Racing - [AMRA Harley's were Bangin’ at Beech Bend](https://dragillustrated.com/amra-harleys-were-bangin-at-beech-bend/): Bowling Green, Kentucky’s Beech Bend Raceway Park has long hosted one of the best biker events in the country, and this year’s PennGrade1 AMRA D.C. Jones Memorial Fall Nationals was packed with V-Twin culture junkies and high-speed Harley-Davidson drag racing. The September 25-27 event was blessed with perfect weather for racing, riding, partying, and tempting - [Southeast Gassers Prepare For Triple Race Championship Finals At Shadyside Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-prepare-for-triple-race-championship-finals-at-shadyside-dragway/): The Southeast Gassers Association plans to overcome a challenging weather season with a first for the organization. The Return to Greer Dragway presented by MAHLE Motorsports was rained out on race day. SEGA’s Gulfcoast Nationals presented by ARP Fasteners was cancelled Monday prior to the event’s scheduled time due to the forecast that has now - [169 Have Tried. Seven Have Done It. Nobody Has Done It Twice.](https://dragillustrated.com/169-have-tried-seven-have-done-it-nobody-twice/): Seven runnings, 169 drivers, 319 entries and seven champions. Not one of them has won the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod twice, and the chip draw is why. - [Stampede of Speed Offers 10 Days Of High Horsepower Excitement](https://dragillustrated.com/stampede-of-speed-offers-10-days-of-high-horsepower-excitement/): The Stampede of Speed and Texas Fall Nationals will feature a variety of special events for NHRA fans, country music enthusiasts and families looking for big value and high energy fun. Starting on Friday, October 9 and running through Sunday, October 18, the Stars of Texas Music Festival and the 41st Texas NHRA Fall Nationals will - [Nitro Chaos Announces Guaranteed $10,000 To Win In 2027](https://dragillustrated.com/nitro-chaos-announces-guaranteed-10000-to-win-in-2027/): In a major series announcement made at the final event of 2026 at Cordova Dragway, the DMP Awnings Nitro Chaos series owners Chris and Tera Graves proudly made it public that the 2027 RBS Superchargers ‘A’ Field category will pay a series high $10,000 to win at each event next season. This exciting payout increase - [Ashley Franklin Making Leap to PDRA Pro 632 With 'Jungle Rat 2.5' Camaro](https://dragillustrated.com/ashley-franklin-making-leap-to-pdra-pro-632-with-jungle-rat-2-5-camaro/): After a successful run in Top Dragster, Ashley Franklin is ready to take the next step in her racing career, making the move into the PDRA Pro 632 class behind the wheel of her father’s former Pro Nitrous Camaro. The car, formerly known as the Jungle Rat 2.0, has been given a fresh new look - [Going, Going: Nearly Every Cuttell Track Hits the Auction Block](https://dragillustrated.com/going-going-nearly-every-cuttell-track-hits-the-auction-block/): Darana Motorsports Holdings has hired Tranzon Auction Services to sell Atlanta Dragway, Virginia Motorsports Park, Rockingham, Memphis, Heartland and seven more, with sealed bids due Nov. 17. - [Kirk Wolf and Dubbin Motorsports Ride Into Texas Chasing a Cowboy Hat and Diamond Wally](https://dragillustrated.com/kirk-wolf-and-dubbin-motorsports-ride-into-texas-chasing-a-cowboy-hat-and-diamond-wally/): Dubbin Motorsports with driver Kirk Wolf will head to the Texas Motorplex this week for the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals and a full week of racing known as the Stampede of Speed. Along with national event competition, the week-long schedule includes NHRA Lucas Oil Series drag racing and the JEGS Allstars. The Dean Dubbin-led team - [Chris King Takes Positives From St. Louis Experience at NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/chris-king-takes-positives-from-st-louis-experience-at-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Drag racing at the highest level is one of the most rewarding and frustrating endeavors in sports. For team owner and Funny Car driver Chris King the investment of blood, sweat and money has shown flashes of greatness, but also a fair share of disappointment. This weekend at the 15th annual NAPA NHRA Midwest Nationals King - [Spencer Hyde Pedals His Way to Quarterfinals at NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-pedals-his-way-to-quarterfinals-at-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Nitro Funny Car driver Spencer Hyde came out ahead in one of the most thrilling pedal-fests in recent memory during eliminations today at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway. The driver of the Head Contractors & Engineers Funny Car backed by Hyde Construction, OUTLAW Light Beer and the Caine - [Fricke, Nobile, Cox and Pirrone Celebrate Victories at Cecil County's Chesapeake Fall Classic](https://dragillustrated.com/fricke-nobile-cox-and-pirrone-celebrate-victories-at-cecil-countys-chesapeake-fall-classic/): A threatening weather forecast forced Cecil County Dragway officials to condense the Chesapeake Fall Classic into a one-day show on Friday, Sept. 25, but the abbreviated schedule didn’t take away from the caliber of racing. Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car shared the spotlight with Mountain Motor Pro Stock and Nostalgia Funny Car, - [Chip King Records First-Ever 5.50’s Pass In NHRA Pro Mod During Historic Weekend in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/chip-king-records-first-ever-5-50s-pass-in-nhra-pro-mod-during-historic-weekend-in-st-louis/): Presented with cool weather and incredible track conditions, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series presented by Elite Motorsports put on a historic show at the NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. New elapsed time world records were set in three consecutive qualifying sessions, but by Saturday night, it was - [Maddi Gordon Achieves New Career Best At NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-achieves-new-career-best-at-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): NHRA Rookie of the Year contender Maddi Gordon delivered an impressive qualifying performance at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, posting a new personal-best mile-per-hour while temporarily resetting the World Wide Technology Raceway speed record when she broke the 340 mph barrier for the second time in her burgeoning career. Although she made an - [Will Smith Races To First Career Top Fuel Final Round At NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/will-smith-races-to-first-career-top-fuel-final-round-at-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Will Smith and the Bluebird Turf Top Fuel team delivered a milestone performance Sunday at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, racing to their first career final round to lead SCAG Racing at World Wide Technology Raceway. The breakthrough weekend came as SCAG Racing debuted its pink SCAG ‘Warrior’ race cars in recognition of - [Ron Capps Battles Through Difficult Midwest Nationals Weekend in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-battles-through-difficult-midwest-nationals-weekend-in-st-louis/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team battled through a challenging weekend at the NAPA AUTO PARTS NHRA Midwest Nationals, overcoming three consecutive traction-plagued qualifying attempts to make the field before falling to Austin Prock in the opening round of eliminations Sunday at World Wide Technology Raceway. Capps leaves St. Louis sixth - [PHOTO GALLERY: ANRA Racers Battle for Fall Nationals Glory at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-anra-racers-battle-for-fall-nationals-glory-at-famoso/): The American Nostalgia Racing Association came loaded for the Fall Nationals at Famoso Dragstrip, and when the final pairs rolled into the beams, there was no shortage of racers ready to put everything on the starting line. From the Nostalgia Eliminator ranks and the hard-running Gas categories to Sportsman, Open Wheel, Hot Rod and Junior - [Aaron Stanfield Wins In St. Louis, Elite Motorsports Sweeps Three-Race Swing to Open NHRA Countdown to the Championship](https://dragillustrated.com/aaron-stanfield-wins-in-st-louis-elite-motorsports-sweeps-three-race-swing-to-open-nhra-countdown-to-the-championship/): Elite Motorsports has dominated the first half of the NHRA Countdown to the Championship. With his third win of the season, Aaron Stanfield completed the Elite Motorsports sweep. Troy Coughlin Jr. started the trend with the midnight JEGS machine in Martin, Michigan and Greg Stanfield kept the streak alive in Rockingham, N.C. Carolina. On a - [Antron Brown Takes Positives From NHRA Midwest Nationals After Quarterfinal Finish, Focuses on Final Countdown Races](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-takes-positives-from-nhra-midwest-nationals-after-quarterfinal-finish-focuses-on-final-countdown-races/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion and AB Motorsports team owner Antron Brown advanced to the quarterfinals of the NHRA Midwest Nationals during a weekend-long celebration at World Wide Technology Raceway, where the five-time event winner qualified second. Before the opening qualifying session, Brown was recognized as one of Gateway’s Greatest and celebrated as one of - [Texas FallNationals Pre-Stage FanFest Set To Deliver More Than 50 NHRA Stars](https://dragillustrated.com/texas-fallnationals-pre-stage-fanfest-set-to-deliver-more-than-50-nhra-stars/): In what is widely recognized as one of the biggest free driver fanfest events on the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, the Texas FallNationals Pre-Stage FanFest presented by Red Line Synthetic Oil will once again feature biggest names in NHRA drag racing Thursday, October 15, at Railyard Park in downtown Waxahachie. The stars will be - [Jordan Vandergriff Takes Runner-Up In Funny Car at NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-takes-runner-up-in-funny-car-at-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Jordan Vandergriff and John Force Racing’s Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team earned its sixth final-round appearance of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season at the NHRA Midwest Nationals, but fell just short of notching their fourth win as Vandergriff ran 3.926 seconds at 325.37 mph to Austin Prock’s run of - [No Mercy 17 Rescheduled Due to Weather](https://dragillustrated.com/no-mercy-17-rescheduled-due-to-weather/): Duck X Productions has rescheduled the Summit Racing Equipment No Mercy 17 at South Georgia Motorsports Park to Oct. 21-25 due to a worsening weather forecast. Event officials announced the decision after continued monitoring showed increasing rain chances throughout the week, leaving little confidence that racers would have a fair opportunity to complete the event. - [Allegrucci Caps Championship Day With St. Louis Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown National Event Win](https://dragillustrated.com/allegrucci-caps-championship-day-with-st-louis-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-national-event-win/): For the fourth time this season, Jonathan Allegrucci drove his Mustang Cobra Jet into the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series winner’s circle. On Sunday, in front of a near sell-out crowd at World Wide Technology Raceway, Allegrucci clinched his first Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series world championship. Allegrucci reached the final round and then defeated - [Greg Anderson honored among WWT Raceway's inaugural "Gateway's Greatest" at NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-honored-among-wwt-raceways-inaugural-gateways-greatest-at-nhra-midwest-nationals/): At this weekend's NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, World Wide Technology Raceway joined NHRA's 75th anniversary season with the launch of a special program recognizing professional-category competitors who have made their mark at the facility originally known as Gateway International Raceway. Six-time Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson, driver of the HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro - [Stevie Fast Rolls To JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Win During Record-Setting Weekend In St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/stevie-fast-rolls-to-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-win-during-record-setting-weekend-in-st-louis/): Two-time world champion Stevie “Fast” Jackson picked up his first win in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series presented by Elite Motorsports since the 2022 season on Sunday at World Wide Technology Raceway, defeating Stan Shelton in the final round as part of this weekend’s NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals. It was the - [Langdon, Prock, A. Stanfield, and Herrera Win NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-prock-a-stanfield-and-herrera-win-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon won his fourth straight race of the season on Sunday at World Wide Technology Raceway, defeating first-time finalist Will Smith in the championship round at the 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals. Austin Prock (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also - [Beckman Grabs Top Spot at Midwest Nationals; DeJoria Qualifies Second, Hart Sixth, Vandergriff Seventh For John Force Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/beckman-grabs-top-spot-at-midwest-nationals-dejoria-qualifies-second-hart-sixth-vandergriff-seventh-for-john-force-racing/): Jack Beckman was third after Friday’s qualifying runs, but the PEAK SQUAD found a little bit extra in Saturday’s first run to move the PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car to the No. 1 qualifying position for the NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway. Beckman ran 3.866 seconds at 332.59 mph to supplant John - [Lee Hartman Races To Second Consecutive Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown No. 1 Qualifier](https://dragillustrated.com/lee-hartman-races-to-second-consecutive-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-no-1-qualifier/): Lee Hartman raced to his second consecutive Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown No. 1 qualifier at the NAPA NHRA Midwest Nationals as qualifying concluded at the penultimate national event of the season. Hartman reset the national elapsed time record for the second race in a row. His record setting 7.548-second pass at 182.30 mph came in - [Beckman, Langdon, T. Coughlin Jr., and Herrera Get No. 1 Spots In Front Of Sellout Crowd At NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/beckman-langdon-t-coughlin-jr-and-herrera-get-no-1-spots-in-front-of-sellout-crowd-at-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Funny Car’s Jack Beckman powered to the top in front of a sellout crowd on Saturday at World Wide Technology Raceway, securing his third No. 1 qualifier of 2026 for John Force Racing at the 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Troy Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera - [Lee Hartman Wins Rain Delayed Dodge Great Lakes Nationals on Saturday in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/lee-hartman-wins-rain-delayed-dodge-great-lakes-nationals-on-saturday-in-st-louis/): It took two weeks to get from a first-round win to the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown winner’s circle but Lee Hartman, of Canfield, Ohio, took the rain delayed Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals on Saturday during the NAPA Midwest Nationals. In Martin, Mich., Hartman defeated Kyle Pawuk and 2026 U.S. Nationals winner Scott Libersher in - [World Wide Technology Raceway Sells Out For Sixth Consecutive Saturday at NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/world-wide-technology-raceway-sells-out-for-sixth-consecutive-saturday-at-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): The NHRA and World Wide Technology Raceway announced a sixth consecutive Saturday sellout for the 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals. “Today’s sold-out crowd at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals is another tremendous showcase of the passion and enthusiasm St. Louis fans have for NHRA drag racing,” said NHRA President Glen - [Stanfield Racing Engines powers into St. Louis for double Factory Stock Showdown action; Ricky Hord set to defend title](https://dragillustrated.com/stanfield-racing-engines-powers-into-st-louis-for-double-factory-stock-showdown-action-ricky-hord-set-to-defend-title/): The 2026 season of NHRA’s Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown is quickly nearing completion, and this weekend at the 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, the category is fired up for a pair of race runoffs. After rain washed away the last two elimination rounds of the Great Lakes Nationals in Martin, Mich., the - [Pro Stock Points Leader Greg Stanfield Looks to Continue Countdown Momentum in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/pro-stock-points-leader-greg-stanfield-looks-to-continue-countdown-momentum-in-st-louis/): Greg Stanfield enters this weekend’s 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway as the NHRA Pro Stock points leader following his win last week. After a strong showing in Rockingham, Stanfield now has his eye on a third win of the season at the halfway point of the Countdown - [Mike Stavrinos Looks to Stay On Top in JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Title Hunt in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/mike-stavrinos-looks-to-stay-on-top-in-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-title-hunt-in-st-louis/): Mike Stavrinos has enjoyed an impressive year in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports, but the standout has turned it on at a key time, leading the points race with only two events remaining heading into this weekend’s NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology - [Funny Car's Ron Capps Thinking Big at NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-cars-ron-capps-thinking-big-at-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Needing a big weekend to get back in the thick of the world championship hunt, Funny Car standout Ron Capps likely couldn’t have picked a better destination than World Wide Technology Raceway, the site of this weekend’s 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals. For one, it’s a sponsor race for Capps and his - [Jordan Vandergriff, Cornwell Quality Tools Team Still In Championship Hunt Heading Into St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-cornwell-quality-tools-team-still-in-championship-hunt-heading-into-st-louis/): The Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team with rookie Funny Car driver Jordan Vandergriff have developed into a championship-caliber team over the past few months, and they know the final four races of the season, beginning with the Oct. 2-4 NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway, is crunch time. Vandergriff and his - [Points Leader Matt Hagan Brings Back American Rebel Light Beer Livery; Leah Pruett to Unveil New Scheme in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/points-leader-matt-hagan-brings-back-american-rebel-light-beer-livery-leah-pruett-to-unveil-new-scheme-in-st-louis/): The Countdown to the Championship rolls into World Wide Technology Raceway near St. Louis for the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, and Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) enters the third event of the six-race playoff with strong momentum and a new primary paint scheme on display. In Top Fuel, Leah Pruett will pilot the Pellera - [Young Guns Kasper, Schroeder to Battle For Outlaw 10.5 Championship at Cecil County](https://dragillustrated.com/young-guns-kasper-schroeder-to-battle-for-outlaw-10-5-championship-at-cecil-county/): The Strange Engineering Outlaw Street Car Shootout season will come down to a pair of young guns this weekend at Cecil County Dragway, where Ty Kasper and “Quick” Nick Schroeder will battle for the Outlaw 10.5 championship in the series finale. It marks the end of Outlaw 10.5's first season back at Cecil County since - [Championship On the Line as Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Heads to St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/championship-on-the-line-as-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-heads-to-st-louis/): The penultimate NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series race will be filled with high-stakes competition. Four drivers will be racing to win the rain-postponed Great Lakes Nationals during qualifying and the entire field will be racing to keep points leader Jonathan Allegrucci from clinching his first world championship this weekend at the NAPA Midwest Nationals. - [Top Fuel's Shawn Langdon After Fourth Straight Win of 2026 at NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-shawn-langdon-after-fourth-straight-win-of-2026-at-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Shawn Langdon has been on a hot streak for pretty much the entire 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. But now on his second three-race winning streak of the year heading into this weekend’s 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway, the Top Fuel standout continues to - [Jason Harris Completes “Drive for Five” With Historic Fifth PDRA World Championship](https://dragillustrated.com/jason-harris-completes-drive-for-five-with-historic-fifth-pdra-world-championship/): Jason Harris completed his “Drive for Five” in style at the ProLine Racing Brian Olson Memorial World Finals presented by ProCharger at Virginia Motorsports Park, taking home the event win in WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive and securing an unprecedented fifth world championship in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series – his - [St. Louis Shaping Up Continued Improvement For Funny Car's Chris King](https://dragillustrated.com/st-louis-shaping-up-continued-improvement-for-funny-cars-chris-king/): At the beginning of the month Funny Car team owner and driver Chris King was full of optimism heading to the 72nd NHRA Cornwell Tools U.S. Nationals facing one of the largest fields of Funny Cars in recent memory. The independent team gave it their best and narrowly missed the field with their 12,000-horsepower Howards - [SCAG Racing Goes Pink For NHRA Midwest Nationals In Support Of Breast Cancer Awareness](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-racing-goes-pink-for-nhra-midwest-nationals-in-support-of-breast-cancer-awareness/): SCAG Racing will bring a new look and a meaningful message to World Wide Technology Raceway this weekend as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, Oct. 2-4. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, SCAG Racing will debut special pink liveries across its race teams - [Stampede Of Speed Brings A Texas-Sized Showdown To Playoffs With Texas NHRA FallNationals](https://dragillustrated.com/stampede-of-speed-brings-a-texas-sized-showdown-to-playoffs-with-texas-nhra-fallnationals/): The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series is headed to the famed Texas Motorplex for a Texas-sized event for the sixth annual Stampede of Speed and the main event of the 10-day extravaganza, the 41st annual Texas NHRA FallNationals, which takes place Oct. 9-18 at the famed facility as part of NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. - [Steve Johnson Seeking a Second St. Louis Victory In Pro Stock Motorcycle](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-seeking-a-second-st-louis-victory-in-pro-stock-motorcycle/): Veteran Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Steve Johnson and the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series shifts to St. Louis this weekend for the NHRA Midwest Nationals, the third consecutive weekend of spectacular competition during the pressure filled Countdown to the Championship. Johnson will be competing in the record-setting 530th NHRA national event of his career - [NHRA Announces New Media Rights Agreements With FOX Sports, The CW Network, and FloSports](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-announces-new-media-rights-agreements-with-fox-sports-the-cw-network-and-flosports/): NHRA officials announced it has reached new, landmark multi-year media rights agreements for the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series with three standout distributors – FOX Sports, The CW Network and FloSports – positioning NHRA to enjoy the largest household reach in its 75-year history. Starting during the 2027 season, NHRA will have a total reach - [FloSports and NHRA Announce Five-Year Partnership Making FloRacing Exclusive Subscription Streaming Home of NHRA Beginning in 2027](https://dragillustrated.com/flosports-and-nhra-announce-five-year-partnership-making-floracing-exclusive-subscription-streaming-home-of-nhra-beginning-in-2027/): FloSports and the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) today announced a five-year media agreement that will make FloRacing the exclusive subscription streaming home of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series beginning with the 2027 season. The agreement represents a major expansion of FloRacing’s motorsports portfolio, adding the world’s premier drag racing series with live - [Andy Robinson Makes History with 10th Motorsport UK Pro Modified Championship](https://dragillustrated.com/andy-robinson-makes-history-with-10th-motorsport-uk-pro-modified-championship/): Andy Robinson has once again written his name into the history books of British drag racing, securing his 10th Motorsport UK Drag Racing Championship at the National Finals, Santa Pod Raceway. Driving his roots blown, clutch-equipped 1969 Camaro known as ‘Anger Management’, Robinson scored his second victory of the season to gain the championship win. - [Jim Dunn Inducted Into the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall Of Fame](https://dragillustrated.com/jim-dunn-inducted-into-the-west-coast-stock-car-motorsports-hall-of-fame/): Legendary Funny Car drag racer, Jim Dunn, has been inducted into the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame’s 2026 Pioneers of Speed. A native of Southern California, Dunn has been a fixture in drag racing for more than 70 years. He has campaigned some of the most iconic Funny Cars in history, winning some - ["Top Dog" Competition To Kick Off Friday Night Qualifying At NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-dog-competition-to-kick-off-friday-night-qualifying-at-napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals/): Friday night's professional qualifying session at World Wide Technology Raceway will carry extra stakes as NHRA's quickest qualifiers battle for $7,500 in bonus money during the inaugural "Top Dog" competition, presented by USEDHOTDOGS.com, at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, Oct. 2-4. The unique new bonus program will add an entertaining twist to Friday night - [VP Racing, Texas Motorplex Partner to Launch VP Racing Spirits at Stampede of Speed](https://dragillustrated.com/vp-racing-texas-motorplex-partner-to-launch-vp-racing-spirits-at-stampede-of-speed/): Two well-known Texas companies heavily involved in the motorsports business will be joining forces to make this year’s Stampede of Speed even more spectacular for racers and fans. VP Racing Spirits will debut its Grand Tour Collection during the Stars of Texas Music Festival. VP Racing will also ensure its industry-leading racing fuels are available - [Maddi Gordon Shows Countdown Progress at Inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-shows-countdown-progress-at-inaugural-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): NHRA Rookie of the Year contender Maddi Gordon and the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster team showed strong progress at the second race of the NHRA Countdown to the Championship, the NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway. A week after falling in the opening round in her playoff debut, Gordon and the Ron Capps - [Antron Brown Shifts Focus to St. Louis After Early Rockingham Exit](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-shifts-focus-to-st-louis-after-early-rockingham-exit/): Antron Brown and the Matco Tools team made significant gains throughout qualifying at Rockingham Dragway, but their weekend ended early when Brown encountered tire smoke during the opening round of eliminations on Sunday. With teams working to get a handle on the unfamiliar racing surface, Brown’s first two qualifying attempts were cut short by dropped - [Spencer Hyde Leaves Rockingham Focused On St. Louis and Next Countdown Race](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-leaves-rockingham-focused-on-st-louis-and-next-countdown-race/): Spencer Hyde, driver of the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car, has officially added the final new national event track to his NHRA resume. This weekend, he qualified in the No. 12 position at the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway. The 2025 NHRA Rookie of the Year highlighted one of his - [Short Sunday Of Racing For John Force Racing at Inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/short-sunday-of-racing-for-john-force-racing-at-inaugural-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): The return to The Rock didn’t play out for the John Force Racing teams as they had prepared and planned for heading into the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway. Jordan Vandergriff and Alexis DeJoria bowed out in round two while Jack Beckman and Josh Hart exited in round one. Vandergriff and the - [Ron Capps Qualifies No. 1, Advances to Quarterfinals at Inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-qualifies-no-1-advances-to-quarterfinals-at-inaugural-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): Making his first appearance at Rockingham Dragway in nearly 30 years, three-time world champion Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team enjoyed a quality weekend at the NHRA Nationals at The Rock, qualifying No. 1 and advancing to the quarterfinals of the second of six races in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag - [PHOTO GALLERY: NHRA Division 7 Doubleheader at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-nhra-division-7-doubleheader-at-famoso/): There wasn’t much time to catch your breath at Famoso Dragstrip. For four straight days, the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Pacific Division turned the historic Bakersfield quarter-mile into a sportsman drag racing battleground, packing two complete Division 7 events into one long weekend of wheels-up launches, tire-smoking burnouts, starting-line battles and more than - [NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals In St. Louis Set For Football Adjacent Broadcast On FOX](https://dragillustrated.com/napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals-in-st-louis-set-for-football-adjacent-broadcast-on-fox/): One of the biggest races in NHRA’s Countdown to the Championship playoffs will also get a major spotlight on FOX, as the 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway will air on FOX adjacent to a FOX football broadcast on Sunday, Oct. 4. It’s the sixth straight year a - [Pro Stock Rookie of the Year Contender Cody Anderson Reaches First Pro Stock Final Surrounded By Family and Friends](https://dragillustrated.com/pro-stock-rookie-of-the-year-contender-cody-anderson-reaches-first-pro-stock-final-surrounded-by-family-and-friends/): It’s difficult to believe that it was just seven months ago that young Cody Anderson made his Pro Stock licensing passes at Rockingham Dragway. In many ways and certainly in terms of calendar months, it feels as though Cody – the son of Greg Anderson, the most winning driver in Pro Stock history – only - [Team Racetech Drivers Double Down on NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Records](https://dragillustrated.com/team-racetech-drivers-double-down-on-nhra-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-records/): Team Racetech drivers Lee Hartman and David H. Davies redefined the limits of Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown performance at the inaugural Great Lakes Nationals, establishing new category records for both E.T. and speed at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. This milestone represents an exemplary demonstration of the role Racetech’s advanced seat technology plays as performance - [Matt Hagan Solidifies Points Lead in Rockingham With Fourth Win of the Season](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-hagan-solidifies-points-lead-in-rockingham-with-fourth-win-of-the-season/): Four-time Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan delivered a relentless performance at Rockingham Dragway on Sunday, driving his Dodge//SRT Hellcat to a victory at the NHRA Nationals at The Rock. The win marks Hagan’s fourth national event victory of the season, his 59th career Funny Car title, and further cements his points lead in the - [Greg Stanfield Takes Over Pro Stock Points Lead With Win In Rockingham](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-stanfield-takes-over-pro-stock-points-lead-with-win-in-rockingham/): Veteran drag racer Greg Stanfield and his Janac Brothers Racing team took over the Pro Stock points lead en route to their second victory of the season Sunday at the NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway. Behind the wheel of his Janac Brothers Pro Stock machine, Stanfield had a holeshot victory with a - [Hagan, Langdon, G. Stanfield, and Gadson Roll To Wins at NHRA Nationals At The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/hagan-langdon-g-stanfield-and-gadson-roll-to-wins-at-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): Funny Car points leader Matt Hagan rolled to his fourth victory of the season for Tony Stewart Racing on Sunday in front of a near-capacity crowd at Rockingham Dragway, defeating Paul Lee in the final round at the NHRA Nationals at The Rock. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Richard Gadson (Pro - [Stavrinos Moves Into JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Points Lead With Rockingham Win](https://dragillustrated.com/stavrinos-moves-into-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-points-lead-with-rockingham-win/): Michael Stavrinos jumped into the points lead in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports on Sunday at Rockingham Dragway, defeating Justin Bond on a holeshot in the final round as part of this weekend’s NHRA Nationals at The Rock. It was the ninth of 11 races in the - [DeJoria Leads Strong Saturday Showing For John Force Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/dejoria-leads-strong-saturday-showing-for-john-force-racing/): A clear and sunny day with temperatures barely reaching 80 degrees allowed John Force Racing’s four teams to improve on their performances in the final two qualifying sessions in preparation for the first round of the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway. Alexis DeJoria and the Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny - [Greg Anderson Honored, Reflective, and Ready To Race in Rockingham](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-honored-reflective-and-ready-to-race-in-rockingham/): Rockingham Dragway has long been a special place for Greg Anderson, driver of the HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro. The six-time world champion in the ultra-competitive Pro Stock category and the most winning driver in the history of the class with 116 Pro Stock trophies has been coming to this facility his entire career. Incredibly, it’s where - [Ron Capps Earns Fourth No. 1 Qualifier of 2026 at Rockingham](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-earns-fourth-no-1-qualifier-of-2026-at-rockingham/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team secured their fourth No. 1 qualifier of the season Saturday at Rockingham Dragway, locking down the top spot for Sunday’s NHRA Nationals at The Rock eliminations on the strength of Capps’ 3.870-second pass at 330.40 mph from Friday night. Capps, who entered the second race of - [Capps, Kalitta, Hartford, and A. Smith Score No. 1 Qualifiers at Inaugural NHRA Nationals At The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/capps-kalitta-hartford-and-a-smith-score-no-1-qualifiers-at-inaugural-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): Three-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps secured his fourth No. 1 qualifier of the 2026 season on Saturday at the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock during the conclusion of qualifying at Rockingham Dragway. Capps, driver of the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car, and the rest of the drivers of the NHRA Mission Foods - [Sellout Crowd at Debut NHRA Nationals at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/sellout-crowd-at-debut-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): NHRA officials announced a sellout on Saturday for the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock. The race marked the fourth of four new facilities during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. Fans packed the grandstands of Rockingham Dragway on Saturday during the second day of qualifying at the 16th event of the 2026 NHRA season. “This is - [Ron Capps Rockets to Provisional No. 1 Qualifier at Rockingham Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-rockets-to-provisional-no-1-qualifier-at-rockingham-dragway/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team opened the second race of the NHRA Countdown to the Championship with a strong showing Friday at Rockingham Dragway, collecting five crucial bonus points and powering to the provisional No. 1 position after two rounds of qualifying at the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock. Capps, - [Kalitta, Capps, Hartford, and A. Smith Start NHRA Nationals at The Rock in No. 1 Spots](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-capps-hartford-and-a-smith-start-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock-in-no-1-spots/): Reigning Top Fuel world champ Doug Kalitta finished Friday’s qualifying with the best run of the day at Rockingham Dragway, rolling to the provisional No. 1 spot to open the NHRA Nationals at The Rock. Ron Capps (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) and Angie Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are also the provisional No. 1 - [JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Powered By Culp Lumber Set For Playoff Stop at Rockingham Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-powered-by-culp-lumber-set-for-playoff-stop-at-rockingham-dragway/): Racing in a Pro Mod hotbed this weekend at Rockingham Dragway, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports moves a step closer to crowning a champion as part of this weekend’s NHRA Nationals at The Rock. It is the ninth of 11 races in the category and Culp Lumber - [Steve Johnson Rolling Straight Into Rockingham](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-rolling-straight-into-rockingham/): Pro Stock Motorcycle veteranSteve Johnson and the racers on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour faced an extremely quick turnaround in preparation for this weekend's NHRA Nationals at The Rock. The Countdown to the Championship moves to North Carolina’s Rockingham Dragway after rain delayed completing eliminations at the NHRA Great Lakes Nationals in - [Marcus Butner Claims Second Consecutive PDRA Pro Nitrous World Championship](https://dragillustrated.com/marcus-butner-claims-second-consecutive-pdra-pro-nitrous-world-championship/): Marcus Butner successfully defended his 2025 PDRA Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars world championship when he clinched the 2026 title during eliminations at the Pro Line Racing Brian Olson Memorial World Finals presented by ProCharger at Virginia Motorsports Park in mid-September. After a late-season surge put him in the points - [After Another Win to Open Countdown, John Hall Looks to Keep Rolling at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/after-another-win-to-open-countdown-john-hall-looks-to-keep-rolling-at-the-rock/): For the second season in a row, Pro Stock Motorcycle rider John Hall kicked off the Countdown to the Championship playoffs with a win. Now, he’ll look to carry that momentum into this weekend’s inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway. Hall, rider of the Outlaw Beer Buell for Matt Smith Racing, raced his way - [Last Driver Standing Low Qualifier Bonus Coming Friday to NHRA Nationals at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/last-driver-standing-low-qualifier-bonus-coming-friday-to-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ debut at Rockingham Dragway will have a little extra incentive on Friday during the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock. NHRA officials announced the Last Driver Standing Laptop Giveaway presented by IGTG and Perimeter.One during the second qualifying session on Friday at Rockingham Dragway. The low qualifiers in - [Funny Car's Jordan Vandergriff Relishes First Opportunity to Race at Rockingham Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-cars-jordan-vandergriff-relishes-first-opportunity-to-race-at-rockingham-dragway/): Like most everyone in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Jordan Vandergriff knows very little about historic Rockingham Dragway, other than he’s extremely excited for this weekend’s inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock. It will be the Funny Car standout’s first time on the property, but thus far during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season in - [Hagan Looks to Extend Points Lead, Pruett Hoping for Turnaround in Rockingham](https://dragillustrated.com/hagan-looks-to-extend-points-lead-pruett-hoping-for-turnaround-in-rockingham/): As the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship enters the second of three back-to-back events, The series takes another visit to an unfamiliar track, Rockingham Dragway, for the NHRA Nationals at The Rock. The iconic North Carolina venue plays host to an NHRA national event for the very first time, - [Inaugural NHRA Nationals at the Rock Kicks Off With Massive NitroFest in Downtown Rockingham](https://dragillustrated.com/inaugural-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock-kicks-off-with-massive-nitrofest-in-downtown-rockingham/): With the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series set to make its thrilling debut at Rockingham Dragway this weekend for the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock, the official kickoff for the race is set to be a big one for fans in downtown Rockingham. Featuring NHRA driver meet-and-greets, a free concert from The Lacs, - [Rockingham Dragway's Dan VanHorn Discusses Opportunities, Challenges of Inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock](https://dragillustrated.com/rockingham-dragways-dan-vanhorn-discusses-opportunities-challenges-of-inaugural-nhra-nationals-at-the-rock/): As the NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary this season, fans can expect to see plenty of familiar and even nostalgic elements – the return of legends, the celebration of the people and moments that made NHRA history, and even official uniforms that harken back to the “glory days” of the sport. But the NHRA Mission - [Antron Brown Records Career-Best Speed at NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-records-career-best-speed-at-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): Antron Brown and the AB Motorsports team recorded some of their strongest runs of the season at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR, qualifying third before advancing to the quarterfinals Monday at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. Brown also reached a career-best speed of 339.62 mph during the opening round of eliminations. Brown - [Angelle Sampey Looks Ahead After Weather-Shortened NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/angelle-sampey-looks-ahead-after-weather-shortened-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): A weather-compressed schedule at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR gave Angelle Sampey just one qualifying pass before eliminations began Friday evening at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. Sampey drove the Hangsterfer’s FVP Mission Foods A/Fuel Dragster to a 5.327-second pass at 264.55 mph, placing her No. 8 in the Top Alcohol Dragster - [Kirk Wolf and Dubbin Motorsports Deliver Strong Consistent Runs At Rain‑Shortened Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/kirk-wolf-and-dubbin-motorsports-deliver-strong-consistent-runs-at-rain-shortened-great-lakes-nationals/): With rain guaranteed in the forecast, NHRA officials condensed the Great Lakes Nationals schedule to a single qualifying session for the Top Alcohol classes. With that lone shot carrying double duty – settling a final verdict on a season‑long clutch issue and securing a strong qualifying position for Kirk Wolf – Dean Dubbin faced the - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 441 | Jason Harris & TJ Coughlin!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-441-jason-harris-tj-coughlin/): THE WES BUCK SHOW - EPISODE 441 "PARTY TIME, TEAM MIDNIGHT & CHAMPIONSHIP HARDWARE" ALL THIS DUDE DOES IS WIN. AND APPARENTLY T.J. COUGHLIN JR. DECIDED TO JOIN THE PARTY. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we've got two guys coming off BIG weekends, a brand-new championship, a Wally, and absolutely no chance this - [Maddi Gordon Takes Positives from Inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-takes-positives-from-inaugural-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): Maddi Gordon continued to make strides behind the wheel of the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster during the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by Mopar at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, the opening race of the NHRA Countdown to the Championship. Gordon qualified No. 13 before drawing points leader and eventual race winner Shawn - [Alexis DeJoria Opens NHRA Countdown with Quarterfinal Finish at Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-opens-nhra-countdown-with-quarterfinal-finish-at-great-lakes-nationals/): Alexis DeJoria and the Bandero Café Funny Car team opened the 2026 NHRA Countdown to the Championship with a quarterfinal finish at the inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. DeJoria qualified in the top half of the field and picked up one bonus point during qualifying before powering to her quickest - [Doug Reisterer Takes Home $12,000 Win at Extreme Doorslammers Season Finale](https://dragillustrated.com/doug-reisterer-takes-home-12000-win-at-extreme-doorslammers-season-finale/): Extreme Doorslammers hosted their season finale “Bridge Wars – Rep Yo Set” event September 18-19 at Cecil County Dragway, with 11 bad-to-the-bone Pro Mods on the property battling it out for the biggest purse of the year. The winner would receive $12,000, with payouts going back to the semifinalists. Although Extreme Doorslammers is a N/T - [Spencer Hyde Posts Season-Best Speed, Strong Performance at Inaugural Michigan Event](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-posts-season-best-speed-strong-performance-at-inaugural-michigan-event/): Reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year Spencer Hyde and the Head Contractors & Engineers Funny Car team continued their strong 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series campaign this weekend at the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR at US 131 Motorsports Park. Despite persistent rain that disrupted the schedule throughout the weekend - [Top Alcohol, Mountain Motor Pro Stock Headline Cecil County’s Chesapeake Fall Classic](https://dragillustrated.com/top-alcohol-mountain-motor-pro-stock-headline-cecil-countys-chesapeake-fall-classic/): Three of drag racing’s most powerful categories will converge on Cecil County Dragway Sept. 25-26 for the Chesapeake Fall Classic presented by ARP Racing Products, a two-day event featuring Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, and Mountain Motor Pro Stock. The Chesapeake Fall Classic brings a 16-car Top Alcohol Dragster field and eight-car Mountain - [Edelbrock Sick 66 Set to Celebrate Route 66's 100th Anniversary With America's Fastest Street Cars](https://dragillustrated.com/edelbrock-sick-66-set-to-celebrate-route-66s-100th-anniversary-with-americas-fastest-street-cars/): There may be no better way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66 than with the return of Edelbrock Sick 66, as 200 of America’s quickest street cars prepare to tackle one of the most ambitious drag-and-drive events in the country. From September 26 through October 3, competitors will race and road-trip their - [Kaiser Family Racing Thunders to Top Fuel Victory at Redding](https://dragillustrated.com/kaiser-family-racing-thunders-to-top-fuel-victory-at-redding/): Billed as the fifth annual Thunder Under the Lites, Redding Motorsports Park played host to the NHRA Heritage Series tour and the great American, one-day Top Fuel showdown. With nitro in the house and a smorgasbord of all nostalgia classes in the pits, thunder did indeed rule under the lights. The Top Fuel showdown lived - [Ron Capps Sets New Career-Best Speed at NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-sets-new-career-best-speed-at-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): Three-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps opened the 2026 NHRA Countdown to the Championship with a career-best speed of 339.37 mph in the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car during Monday eliminations at the inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. Capps paired the milestone speed with a 3.859-second pass to defeat - [Second-Generation Driver John Vergotz Jr. Reaches Semifinals in PDRA Pro Nitrous Debut](https://dragillustrated.com/second-generation-driver-john-vergotz-jr-reaches-semifinals-in-pdra-pro-nitrous-debut/): John Vergotz Jr. had modest expectations for his PDRA Pro Nitrous debut at this past weekend’s Brian Olson Memorial PDRA World Finals at Virginia Motorsports Park. In fact, it was really an opportunity to test and get ready for 2027, but the team led by class veteran John Vergotz Sr. put Vergotz Jr. and his - [Troy Coughlin Jr. Gets First Pro Stock Win of 2026 NHRA Countdown](https://dragillustrated.com/troy-coughlin-jr-gets-first-pro-stock-win-of-2026-nhra-countdown/): After rain postponed eliminations at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at 131 Motorsports Park to Monday, Troy Coughlin Jr. and the JEGS Pro Stock team earned their first win of the season and the fifth for Elite Motorsports in 2026. Troy Jr. handled the JEGS Pro Stock machine to a 6.515-second pass at 209.69 - [JEGS Launches New Online Experience For Performance, Restoration Parts Enthusiasts](https://dragillustrated.com/jegs-launches-new-online-experience-for-performance-restoration-parts-enthusiasts/): JEGS, a leading retailer of performance, automotive, and restoration parts, today announced the launch of its new e-commerce website, a complete transformation of how customers search, verify, and purchase parts. The new site was built to handle the complexity of JEGS performance parts business which encompasses a catalog of approximately 1.8 million parts and roughly - [Jordan Vandergriff, Cornwell Tools Team Create Michigan Miracle With Inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals Funny Car Win](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-cornwell-tools-team-create-michigan-miracle-with-inaugural-nhra-great-lakes-nationals-funny-car-win/): Jordan Vandergriff and John Force Racing’s Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team caught a big break in the first round of the rain-delayed inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals but then proceeded to drop the hammer on the rest of their opponents en route to the team’s third win of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods - [346.95 MPH: Shawn Langdon Records Fastest Pass in NHRA History](https://dragillustrated.com/346-95-mph-shawn-langdon-records-fastest-pass-in-nhra-history/): Shawn Langdon and the Kalitta Air Careers team delivered one of the most dominant race-day performances in recent Top Fuel history Sunday at the NHRA Great Lakes Nationals, combining four consecutive 3.60-second passes with a new NHRA speed record on the way to Langdon’s fifth win of the season. Langdon defeated Maddi Gordon, Will Smith, - [Langdon Sets Speed Record, Wins NHRA Great Lakes Nationals With Vandergriff, T. Coughlin Jr. and Hall](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-sets-speed-record-wins-nhra-great-lakes-nationals-with-vandergriff-t-coughlin-jr-and-hall/): On a day when Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon again made the fastest run in Top Fuel history, the standout powered to the win on Monday at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR, defeating Spencer Massey in the final round at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park to finish off one of the - [Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals Postponed to Monday at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/dodge-nhra-great-lakes-nationals-postponed-to-monday-at-u-s-131-motorsports-park/): Due to persistent rain and falling temperatures on Sunday at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, eliminations for the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR have been postponed to Monday. The first round of eliminations are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. ET, starting with Top Fuel and Funny Car, and followed by Pro - [Harris, Albert, Mac, Beattie Jr., and McGee Finish Season Strong With Wins at PDRA World Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/harris-albert-mac-beattie-jr-and-mcgee-finish-season-strong-with-wins-at-pdra-world-finals/): Jason Harris completed his “Drive for Five” in style on Sunday evening, taking home the event win and the season points championship in WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive at the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series ProLine Racing Brian Olson Memorial World Finals presented by ProCharger at Virginia Motorsports Park. With - [Championship Contenders Go to Battle in Virginia During Opening Round of Eliminations at PDRA World Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/championship-contenders-go-to-battle-in-virginia-during-opening-round-of-eliminations-at-pdra-world-finals/): Saturday’s final qualifying session and opening round of eliminations at the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series’ Pro Line Racing Brian Olson Memorial World Finals presented by ProCharger brought clarity to a few championship battles at Virginia Motorsports Park, while simultaneously building suspense for others heading into Sunday’s final eliminations. J.C. Beattie Jr. locked - [Prock, Kalitta, Hartford, and Oehler Qualify No. 1 in Front of Sellout Crowd at Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/prock-kalitta-hartford-and-oehler-qualify-no-1-in-front-of-sellout-crowd-at-dodge-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): Back-to-back defending Funny Car world champion Austin Prock powered to the No. 1 spot in front of a sellout crowd on Saturday at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, earning his second top qualifier of the year for Tasca Racing at this weekend’s Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR. Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Matt Hartford - [Rain Halts Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown at US 131 Motorsports Park, Race to Conclude in St. Louis](https://dragillustrated.com/rain-halts-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-at-us-131-motorsports-park-race-to-conclude-in-st-louis/): On Friday the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series ran two rounds of qualifying and moved immediately into eliminations with hopes of completing the race in one day. The racing schedule for the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR was adjusted to avoid impending inclement weather over the weekend. Unfortunately, rain began just - [Tutterow, Paap, Morgano, Beattie Jr., and McGee Grab Provisional No. 1 Qualifying Positions at PDRA World Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/tutterow-paap-morgano-beattie-jr-and-mcgee-grab-provisional-no-1-qualifying-positions-at-pdra-world-finals/): Reigning PDRA Pro Boost world champion Ty Tutterow has taken home three consecutive No. 1 qualifying spots in WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive, and he put himself in prime position to earn his fourth in a row on Friday night at the Pro Line Racing Brian Olson Memorial World Finals - [Kalitta, Pedregon, Hartford, and Oehler Motor to Provisional No. 1 Spots at Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-pedregon-hartford-and-oehler-motor-to-provisional-no-1-spots-at-dodge-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): Top Fuel points leader and reigning world champ Doug Kalitta went to the top spot in front of a huge crowd in NHRA’s debut at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park on Friday, taking the provisional No. 1 spot in his home state at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), - [Sonnax Introduces Lightweight Aluminum Clutch Steel to Upgrade TH400 Transmissions ](https://dragillustrated.com/sonnax-introduces-lightweight-aluminum-clutch-steel-to-upgrade-th400-transmissions/): Sonnax Transmission Company has introduced a new aluminum clutch steel for GM TH400 transmissions to help racers maximize drivetrain efficiency and responsiveness. The lightweight plate reduces forward clutch pack weight by approximately one pound for improved performance. For racers chasing every possible performance advantage, optimizing the TH400 forward/direct drum system is critical. Traditional clutch packs - [Tuner Rob Wendland Joins Clay Millican, Rick Ware Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/tuner-rob-wendland-joins-clay-millican-rick-ware-racing/): Rick Ware Racing (RWR) has paired veteran crew chief Rob Wendland with Top Fuel driver Clay Millican beginning with this weekend’s NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. Wendland joins RWR from Shawn Reed Racing, where he had served as crew chief for Reed’s Top Fuel car in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag - [Tony Schumacher Signs Multi-Year Deal With Tony Stewart Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/tony-schumacher-signs-multi-year-deal-with-tony-stewart-racing/): Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) announced today that eight-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion and 88-time NHRA national event winner Tony Schumacher has signed a multi-year agreement to drive for the organization beginning with the 2027 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. Schumacher will assume the driving duties of the TSR Top Fuel Dragster following - [Amber and Blake Denton, Tutterow, Altman, and Schalow Earn ProStars Titles To Kick Off PDRA World Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/amber-and-blake-denton-tutterow-altman-and-schalow-earn-prostars-titles-to-kick-off-pdra-world-finals/): It was a family affair Thursday night at the sixth annual Summit Racing Equipment PDRA ProStars presented by Laris Motorsports, as both Amber Denton and her husband Blake Denton took home wins in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series’ all-star race. Amber picked up the $15,000 win at Virginia Motorsports Park when she - [Dallas Glenn Wants The Top-End Celebration This Time](https://dragillustrated.com/dallas-glenn-wants-the-top-end-celebration-this-time/): If you're wondering how the reigning Pro Stock world champion spent the first free weekend after winning the U.S. Nationals, the biggest race of his life by any measure, I can tell you it wasn't on a beach. "I actually spent the whole weekend getting Sadie's car ready, since we have three in a row - [Leah Pruett, Matt Hagan Bringing New 'Purple Haze' Look to NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/leah-pruett-matt-hagan-bringing-new-purple-haze-look-to-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): The inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR at US 131 Motorsports Park, the 15th event on the 20-race NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule, marks a monumental weekend for Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) drivers Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan. The event kicks off the six-race NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs - [For Kalitta and Langdon, It's All For Connie](https://dragillustrated.com/for-kalitta-and-langdon-its-all-for-connie/): "Brian always just tells me, he says, I'm just going to give you a car, and I'm going to try to give you the car that they're going to have," Shawn Langdon said. "And I'll just leave it up to you and Doug, and you guys can battle it out." The Brian in question is - [CLUTCH DISCS BY THE PALLET: Matt Hagan Says This Countdown Is a Parts War](https://dragillustrated.com/clutch-discs-by-the-pallet-matt-hagan-says-this-countdown-is-a-parts-war/): I'll go ahead and admit that I don't expect a whole lot out of a pre-playoff media call. They're a necessary part of the deal (no offense to anyone involved), but more often than not you hang up with a notebook full of drivers telling you they're excited, the guys are working hard and they're - [Antron Brown Named Founding Motorsports Ambassador for Prostate Cancer Connection](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-named-founding-motorsports-ambassador-for-prostate-cancer-connection/): Four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion and AB Motorsports team owner Antron Brown has been named the Founding Motorsports Ambassador for Prostate Cancer Connection (PCC), a Colorado-based nonprofit dedicated to providing education, awareness and support to men and their loved ones throughout the prostate cancer journey. In the new role, Brown will use his platform - [PRI Launches NextGen Connect to Develop the Next Generation of Motorsports Professionals](https://dragillustrated.com/pri-launches-nextgen-connect-to-develop-the-next-generation-of-motorsports-professionals/): Performance Racing Industry (PRI) is launching NextGen Connect presented by Carlyle Tools at the 2026 PRI Show, an initiative designed to help students, educators, and motorsports professionals build connections and explore career pathways across the industry. The program will debut Dec. 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. At the - [Top Fuel's Doug Kalitta Feels at Home in NHRA's Debut at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park to Open Playoffs](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-doug-kalitta-feels-at-home-in-nhras-debut-at-u-s-131-motorsports-park-to-open-playoffs/): Starting the Countdown to the Championship playoffs at a first-time facility on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour poses a stout challenge right off the bat for any driver seeking a championship. But for points leader and reigning Top Fuel world champion Doug Kalitta, this weekend’s Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by - [Drag Illustrated Now Accepting Nominations For 2026 30 Under 30 List](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-now-accepting-nominations-for-2026-30-under-30-list/): Drag Illustrated is now accepting nominations for its 2026 DI 30 Under 30 list, the magazine announced today. Nominations for the list will be accepted from Wednesday, Sept. 16, through Wednesday, Sept. 30. Thirty honorees will be featured in Drag Illustrated’s 12th annual 30 Under 30 Issue, the magazine’s November/December 2026 issue. The group will - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 440 | Lyle Barnett, Courtney Enders, & Michael Narx!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-440-lyle-barnett-courtney-enders-michael-narx/): THE WES BUCK SHOW - EPISODE 440 "POWER PLAYERS, SHAKE & BAKE & DRAG WEEK CHAOS" NEEDLE MOVERS. PRO MOD RACERS. MICROPHONES. STREET CARS. AND ABSOLUTELY NO CHANCE THIS THING STAYS ON THE RAILS. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we've got a couple of certified shit-stirrers joining us together, plus we're checking in - [Final Wave of NHRA 75th Anniversary Commemorative Tickets Features Top Names to Close Out 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/final-wave-of-nhra-75th-anniversary-commemorative-tickets-features-top-names-to-close-out-2026/): NHRA officials announced the final group of commemorative tickets, which will be available over the course of the six-race Countdown to the Championship playoffs during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season in 2026. The last batch of special commemorative tickets will again feature NHRA legends past and present at the final stretch of the celebratory year in - [“Nobody Has Any Notes:” The 2026 NHRA Countdown Opens at Two Tracks the Pros Have Never Seen](https://dragillustrated.com/nobody-has-any-notes-the-2026-nhra-countdown-opens-at-two-tracks-the-pros-have-never-seen/): Here is the thing about the NHRA Countdown to the Championship as it has existed for the better part of two decades: everybody knew where they were going. Charlotte, Reading, St. Louis, Dallas, Vegas, Pomona. Crew Chiefs had 15 years of run sheets on every one of them. You could argue the playoffs rewarded institutional - [Elite Motorsports Enters 2026 Countdown to the Championship at Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-enters-2026-countdown-to-the-championship-at-dodge-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): After closing out the 2026 regular season, Elite Motorsports is heading to U.S. 131 Raceway Park for the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals, race one of six in the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series Countdown to the Championship. The points have reset and the championship title is up for grabs as the Countdown opens - [Steve Johnson’s Countdown to the Championship Begins In Michigan](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnsons-countdown-to-the-championship-begins-in-michigan/): Steve Johnson will continue to celebrate his 40th season of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle competition with a visit to the Great Lakes State this weekend. After 66 years the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing series will return to Michigan for the running of the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at historic U.S. 131 Motorsports - [Don Garlits and Glenn Menard Named Texas Motorplex Legends](https://dragillustrated.com/don-garlits-and-glenn-menard-named-texas-motorplex-legends/): The Texas Motorplex today announced Don Garlits, Hall of Fame Top Fuel driver and drag racing innovator, and original Texas Motorplex General Manager Glenn Menard have been named Texas Motorplex Legends in advance of the 2026 NHRA Texas Fall Nationals. Garlits and Menard are among some of the earliest drag racing personalities to contribute to - [Raymond Nash Looking to Chase Down Points Leader Jonathan Allegrucci at Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Race in Michigan](https://dragillustrated.com/raymond-nash-looking-to-chase-down-points-leader-jonathan-allegrucci-at-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-race-in-michigan/): With three races remaining in the 2026 Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown Series, Jonathan Allegrucci has a commanding points lead over Raymond Nash and Scott Libersher. Allegrucci’s Ford Mustang Cobra Jet has raced to three wins and two runner-up finishes in five consecutive final round appearances. As the national series heads to the inaugural Dodge - [U.S. 131 Motorsports Park’s Jason Peterson Talks Prep For Inaugural NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/u-s-131-motorsports-parks-jason-peterson-talks-prep-for-inaugural-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): As the NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary this season, fans can expect to see plenty of familiar and even nostalgic elements – the return of legends, the celebration of the people and moments that made NHRA history, and even official uniforms that harken back to the “glory days” of the sport. But the NHRA Mission - [Drag Illustrated Releases State of Drag Issue Featuring Inaugural Power 100 List, Maddi Gordon and Ron Capps Cover](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-releases-state-of-drag-issue-featuring-inaugural-power-100-list-maddi-gordon-and-ron-capps-cover/): Drag Illustrated has released Issue No. 202, the 2026 State of Drag Issue, highlighted by the debut of the Drag Illustrated Power 100, a new annual list recognizing 100 of the individuals and groups making a meaningful impact on drag racing today. The new issue features NHRA Top Fuel rookie Maddi Gordon and three-time Funny - [PDRA to Decide 2026 World Champions at Brian Olson Memorial World Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/pdra-to-decide-2026-world-champions-at-brian-olson-memorial-world-finals/): The biggest weekend on the 2026 Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series schedule is set to take over Virginia Motorsports Park as the series looks to crown world champions at the Pro Line Racing Brian Olson Memorial World Finals presented by ProCharger on Sept. 17-20. On top of that, the weekend festivities include the - [Dubbin Motorsports, Kirk Wolf Head To Michigan Looking For Breakthrough Weekend At NHRA Great Lakes Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/dubbin-motorsports-kirk-wolf-head-to-michigan-looking-for-breakthrough-weekend-at-nhra-great-lakes-nationals/): Dubbin Motorsports and driver Kirk Wolf will make their first start at US 131 Motorsports Park this week, at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals, Sept. 18-20 in Martin, Michigan. The event opens the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs for Mission Food Series competitors and marks the first NHRA national event held in Michigan - [DI Interview: Scott Taylor Talks NHRA U.S. Nationals Win, Dominant 2026 Season, and Honoring His Father](https://dragillustrated.com/di-interview-scott-taylor-talks-nhra-u-s-nationals-win-dominant-2026-season-and-honoring-his-father/): Standing on the top end of Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on a sunny Labor Day afternoon, Scott Taylor held up his second career Wally, fulfilling a lifelong dream – he was officially an NHRA U.S. Nationals champion. Taylor ran a 3.703-second elapsed time at 205.47 mph in the final round of Right Trailers Outlaw - [The Wheelstand Heard 'Round the World: Tony Wilson, the Barney Willys, and the Best Story at Indy That Didn’t Win a Round](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wheelstand-heard-round-the-world-tony-wilson-the-barney-willys-and-the-best-story-at-indy-that-didnt-win-a-round/): Tony Wilson did not win a round at the 2026 NHRA U.S. Nationals. He was, without question, the biggest story in the Pro Mod pits at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, and depending on who you ask, the biggest story at the race, period. Here is the short version. After three qualifying sessions, Wilson and - [Outhouse to the Penthouse: Fletcher Cox Goes No. 1 to Winner's Circle at the Yellowbullet Nationals for His First Pro Mod Win](https://dragillustrated.com/outhouse-to-the-penthouse-fletcher-cox-goes-no-1-to-winners-circle-at-the-yellowbullet-nationals-for-his-first-pro-mod-win/): The week before the Yellowbullet Nationals, Fletcher Cox did not qualify. Twenty-eight Pro Boost cars showed up at GALOT for the PDRA Drag Wars, the bump went into the bottom 3.60s, and the screw-blown “Fixed Income” ‘69 Camaro was not in the field. Cox got in the truck, pointed it toward Maryland and told his - [Brian Hope Brought 'The Show' Back to Indy In The Rat Trap AA/Fuel Altered, And He Did It On Purpose](https://dragillustrated.com/brian-hope-brought-the-show-back-to-indy-in-the-rat-trap-aa-fuel-altered-and-he-did-it-on-purpose/): It was pushing 7:30 on Friday night at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. The Top Fuel and Funny Car fields were stacked up in the lanes waiting on their first shot at the 72nd running of the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, and the air was thick enough to chew. Miserable heat. Painfully high - [Greer Dragway Will See Southeast Gassers Association Drag Racing For The First Time In A Decade](https://dragillustrated.com/greer-dragway-will-see-southeast-gassers-association-drag-racing-for-the-first-time-in-a-decade/): The premier gasser organization in the drag racing world, the Southeast Gassers Association, is ready to return to its roots at Greer Dragway. The Return, presented by MAHLE Motorsports, takes place September 11-12. It’s race seven of the SEGA Championship season and the last stop on a Carolina swing that began in Rockingham, North Carolina, - [Defending Event Winners, World Champions Headline 2026 Summit Racing PDRA ProStars Lineups](https://dragillustrated.com/defending-event-winners-world-champions-headline-2026-summit-racing-pdra-prostars-lineups/): Each year, the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series rewards its most consistent racers with a free-entry-fee, race-within-a-race shootout with big prize money and custom trophies on the line. This year’s Summit Racing Equipment PDRA ProStars presented by Laris Motorsports Insurance fields will feature some of the biggest names in the series, including defending - [Kalitta Motorsports Completes Stellar NHRA Regular Season With 10 Wins, Prepares For Countdown](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-motorsports-completes-stellar-nhra-regular-season-with-10-wins-prepares-for-countdown/): To say the NHRA regular season was stellar for Kalitta Motorsports would be quite an understatement. Collectively, the team won 10 times in 14 races, and all three individual teams led the point standings. The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series resumes next weekend with the opening race of the Countdown to the Championship NHRA - [Keith Haney's New 'Gladiator' Pro Mod Makes Statement in Debut at Yellowbullet Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/keith-haneys-new-gladiator-pro-mod-makes-statement-in-debut-at-yellowbullet-nationals/): The 2026 Yellowbullet Nationals marked the competition debut of Keith Haney Racing’s newest weapon, "The Gladiator," a brand-new Quarter-Max Race Cars build, and the new combination showed its potential right out of the gate. The weekend went extremely well for a brand-new car and combination. The only issue the team encountered came during Q2, when - [Angelle Sampey Finds Positivity After Advancing to U.S. Nationals Quarterfinals in Top Alcohol Dragster](https://dragillustrated.com/angelle-sampey-finds-positivity-after-advancing-to-u-s-nationals-quarterfinals-in-top-alcohol-dragster/): Angelle Sampey defeated reigning Top Alcohol Dragster world champion Shawn Cowie on her way to a quarterfinal finish at the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park. A two-time U.S. Nationals winner in Pro Stock Motorcycle, Sampey returned to Indianapolis pursuing her first victory at the prestigious event in Top Alcohol Dragster. She was also - [Jasmine Salinas Records Career-Best U.S. Nationals Start in Indianapolis](https://dragillustrated.com/jasmine-salinas-records-career-best-u-s-nationals-start-in-indianapolis/): Jasmine Salinas made the most of her sixth NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series appearance of the season at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. She qualified her Valley Services/Scrappers Racing dragster sixth in a loaded 22-car Top Fuel field before her weekend came to an early end in the opening round of eliminations Monday at - [Spencer Hyde and Head Racing Make Improvements Coming Out Of Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-and-head-racing-make-improvements-coming-out-of-indy/): Coming into the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car team led by Jim Head and piloted by Spencer Hyde made significant changes to the car by upgrading several parts. Those changes were reflected positively on the track almost immediately, when Hyde qualified in the No. 4 position in - [NHRA U.S. Nationals Tests, But Doesn't Break, Chris King Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-u-s-nationals-tests-but-doesnt-break-chris-king-racing/): The 72nd running of the historic Cornwell Quality Tools U.S. Nationals did not go in favor of Funny Car driver and team owner Chris King but the full-time Chicago firefighter is leaving Indianapolis more determined than ever. King and his new-look Howards Cams Competition Products Funny Car gave it their all in qualifying over three days, - [Zizzo Racing Honored to be a Part of Historic NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/zizzo-racing-honored-to-be-a-part-of-historic-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Zizzo Racing has built a strong reputation as one of the best part-time teams on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour, and that was only further solidified this weekend at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. With 22 Top Fuel dragsters vying for 16 race day spots, driver TJ Zizzo was not - [Maddi Gordon Reaches Quarterfinals in First NHRA U.S. Nationals Top Fuel Appearance](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-reaches-quarterfinals-in-first-nhra-u-s-nationals-top-fuel-appearance/): Competing in the marathon that is the NHRA U.S. Nationals for the first time as a Top Fuel pilot, Maddi Gordon took her Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster to the quarterfinals Monday afternoon at Indianapolis Raceway Park. Riding momentum from a runner-up finish at the most recent race on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing - [Alexis DeJoria Advances to Quarterfinals at U.S. Nationals, Turns Focus to Countdown](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-advances-to-quarterfinals-at-u-s-nationals-turns-focus-to-countdown/): Alexis DeJoria and the Bandero Café team closed out the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series regular season with a second-round finish at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals on Monday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. DeJoria, the 2014 U.S. Nationals champion, qualified sixth in a stacked Funny Car field and will begin - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 439 | Fletcher Cox, JR Gray, & Tony Wilson!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-439-fletcher-cox-jr-gray-tony-wilson/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 439"INDY CHAMPS, YELLOW BULLET BADASSES & ONE HELL OF A WEEKEND" WE'RE BACK FROM INDY. WE'RE TIRED. OUR LIVERS ARE QUESTIONABLE. AND WE'VE GOT WINNERS IN THE HOUSE. The U.S. Nationals are officially in the books, Yellow Bullet was absolutely WILD, and somehow we've made it home in one - [SCAG Racing Eager for Countdown to the Championship After NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-racing-eager-for-countdown-to-the-championship-after-nhra-u-s-nationals/): SCAG Racing wrapped up the NHRA regular season at the U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on Monday, with Justin Ashley and Daniel Wilkerson both advancing to the second round of eliminations as the team turns its attention to the NHRA Countdown to the Championship. Ashley qualified No. 8 in the Top Fuel - [Five-Time NHRA U.S. Nationals Winner Antron Brown Powers to Quarterfinals at Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/five-time-nhra-u-s-nationals-winner-antron-brown-powers-to-quarterfinals-at-indy/): Five-time U.S. Nationals winner Antron Brown returned to one of his most successful tracks seeking a sixth victory at the prestigious event. The four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion opened eliminations with his quickest pass of the weekend before his pursuit ended in the second round at Indianapolis Raceway Park. Brown, who won the U.S. - [Ron Capps Wraps Up NHRA Regular Season with Semifinal Finish at NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-wraps-up-nhra-regular-season-with-semifinal-finish-at-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Ron Capps capped a strong NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series regular season with a semifinal finish Monday afternoon at the 72nd annual NHRA U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis Raceway Park. After leading the Funny Car standings for much of the season, Capps entered the finale just 12 points out of first, reclaimed the lead during - [Noakes and Elliott Claim Quick 32 Sportsman Series Labour Day Weekend Victories](https://dragillustrated.com/noakes-and-elliott-claim-quick-32-sportsman-series-labour-day-weekend-victories/): Brooklyn Noakes and Jory Elliott claimed Quick 32 Sportsman Series victories during the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series, part of the NHRA National Open Double-Header Labour Day Weekend Spectacular at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario, September 4-6. Noakes captured Saturday’s Quick 32 Sportsman Series title in a close final against Rob Gray, while Elliott - [Scott Libersher Wins Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown at the NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/scott-libersher-wins-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-at-the-nhra-u-s-nationals/): The biggest race of the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series, the 72nd Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals delivered a surprise winner when No. 5 qualifier Scott Libersher from Wilmington, Ill., drove his red Chevrolet COPO Camaro to the winner’s circle defeating points leader and No. 1 qualifier Jonathan Allegrucci in a classic Chevrolet versus Ford - [Matt Hagan Wins Regular Season Championship En Route To Runner-Up Finish at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-hagan-wins-regular-season-championship-en-route-to-runner-up-finish-at-u-s-nationals/): Matt Hagan and the Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car team picked up the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series regular season championship Sunday at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. Hagan, a four-time world champion, will start the Countdown to the Championship, NHRA’s six-race playoffs, from the No. - [Reigning Pro Stock World Champion Dallas Glenn Wins U.S. Nationals, Regular-Season Title](https://dragillustrated.com/reigning-pro-stock-world-champion-dallas-glenn-wins-u-s-nationals-regular-season-title/): Reigning world champion Dallas Glenn came to the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals with redemption on his mind after a first-round falter in Brainerd, and redemption he found as he earned a coveted NHRA 75th Anniversary Diamond Wally at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. With his first Indy win, Glenn also earned - [Beckman Gets The ‘Pinch Me’ Moment He Wanted With Third U.S. Nationals Win](https://dragillustrated.com/beckman-gets-the-pinch-me-moment-he-wanted-with-third-u-s-nationals-win/): Jack Beckman was under the weather with cold symptoms throughout the week at Indianapolis Raceway Park but he and the PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car, carrying the 1996 John Force championship flame job tribute paint scheme, were the hottest combo on the track as they swept the weekend by winning Sunday’s PlayNHRA All-Star Call Out - [Reigning World Champ J.R. Gray Wins in JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series At 'The Big Go' in Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/reigning-world-champ-j-r-gray-wins-in-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-at-the-big-go-in-indy/): J.R. Gray, the reigning world champion in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports, enjoyed one of the biggest moments in his career on Monday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, knocking off Justin Bond to win the prestigious Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. This weekend’s event was - [Langdon, Beckman, Glenn, and M. Smith Go Big En Route To Wins At Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-beckman-glenn-and-m-smith-go-big-en-route-to-wins-at-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Shawn Langdon finished off an impressive weekend with a victory on Monday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, defeating Tony Stewart in the final round of the prestigious 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won the 14th of - [Ron Capps Secures 40th No. 1 Qualifier at U.S. Nationals, Reclaims Funny Car Points Lead](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-secures-40th-no-1-qualifier-at-u-s-nationals-reclaims-funny-car-points-lead/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team entered the NHRA U.S. Nationals looking to reclaim the Funny Car points lead they held through the majority of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. After five rounds of qualifying at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Capps accomplished that goal, securing the - [Beckman Takes PlayNHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout at Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/beckman-takes-playnhra-funny-car-all-star-callout-at-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Funny Car’s Jack Beckman won the PlayNHRA All-Star Callout on Sunday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park for John Force Racing, defeating Matt Hagan in the final round of the bonus race as part of this weekend’s Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) - [Jonathan Allegrucci Runs to Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown No. 1 At NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jonathan-allegrucci-runs-to-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-no-1-at-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Points leader Jonathan Allegrucci drove his Mustang Cobra Jet to the No. 1 qualifier at the most prestigious drag race in the country today, the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. This is Allegrucci’s third No. 1 qualifier of the racing season, but first since the Charlotte Four-Wide Nationals. His quickest run came today in - [Leah Pruett Wins Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/leah-pruett-wins-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Leah Pruett and the Dodge Top Fuel team won their first Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge of the season Saturday while qualifying for the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. Pruett, who has one previous win in the specialty race from 2023, picked up the victory along with bonus qualifying points and - [Historic Indy: Pro Stock's Greg Anderson and son Cody double with Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge championship and win](https://dragillustrated.com/historic-indy-pro-stocks-greg-anderson-and-son-cody-double-with-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-championship-and-win/): The 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals is already turning into a weekend that KB Titan Racing's Greg Anderson and son Cody will never forget. On Saturday at the biggest, most historic race on the NHRA tour, Greg locked down the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge overall championship in his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro, and - [Ron Capps Races to Provisional No. 1 at U.S. Nationals, Closes In On Funny Car Points Lead](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-races-to-provisional-no-1-at-u-s-nationals-closes-in-on-funny-car-points-lead/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team entered the final race of NHRA’s regular season ready to contend for a third U.S. Nationals trophy and reclaim the Funny Car points lead Capps held through the majority of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. After three qualifying sessions at Indianapolis - [Prock, Pruett, C. Anderson, and Herrera Win Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/prock-pruett-c-anderson-and-herrera-win-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Back-to-back Funny Car world champion Austin Prock claimed his third Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge win of the year on Saturday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, defeating J.R. Todd in the final round of the specialty race as part of this weekend’s prestigious Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. Leah Pruett (Top Fuel), Cody Anderson (Pro Stock) - [Historic first: Four generations of Stephenson Family Motorsports race NHRA Indy divisional; father and daughter working to carry momentum at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/historic-first-four-generations-of-stephenson-family-motorsports-race-nhra-indy-divisional-father-and-daughter-working-to-carry-momentum-at-u-s-nationals/): Marion Stephenson has been competing at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP) for decades, and rolling through the gates for this season's 72nd running of the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals is extra special for the Indiana-native. Not only does this race provide both Marion and daughter Nichole the opportunity to race for NHRA's - [Small Tire Pro Stock And Nostalgia Drag Racing League Belt In For Buckeye State](https://dragillustrated.com/small-tire-pro-stock-and-nostalgia-drag-racing-league-belt-in-for-buckeye-state/): Small Tire Pro Stock and Nostalgia Drag Racing League are preparing for a powerful presentation with the NDRL World Nostalgia Drags presented by Liberty's Gears, Indy Cylinder Heads and JR1 Racing Oil, Sept. 11-12, 2026, at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio. The event promises adrenaline-pumping action from Small Tire Pro Stock and NDRL classes, including Pro - [Lucas Oil and NHRA Celebrate 25-Year Partnership with Multi-Year Extension](https://dragillustrated.com/lucas-oil-and-nhra-celebrate-25-year-partnership-with-multi-year-extension/): NHRA officials announced today that Lucas Oil Products, the world leader and distributor of high-performance automotive additives and lubricants, has signed a long-term extension to continue as the title sponsor of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and “Official Oil of NHRA.” This season, NHRA and Lucas Oil celebrated a partnership that started 25 - [Harbaugh and Akoury First Winners on OEM Wednesday at the Summit Fling at Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/harbaugh-and-akoury-first-winners-on-oem-wednesday-at-the-summit-fling-at-norwalk/): Rick Harbaugh and Nick Akoury were the first winners of the week on OEM Combustion Service Wednesday at the Summit Racing Equipment Fling at Norwalk presented by Total Seal Piston Rings at Summit Motorsports Park. During time trials, 32 shootout drivers rolled in the lanes for their shot at a new Race Tech dragster chassis - [Langdon, Beckman, G. Stanfield, and M. Smith Open Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals At The Top](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-beckman-g-stanfield-and-m-smith-open-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals-at-the-top/): Shawn Langdon went to the top on Friday’s final run at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, taking the provisional No. 1 spot to kick off the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are also the provisional No. 1 qualifiers in Indianapolis - [Comp Racer Taylor Chomiski Arrives at the U.S. Nationals With Perspective, Focus](https://dragillustrated.com/comp-racer-taylor-chomiski-arrives-at-the-u-s-nationals-with-perspective-focus/): The 72nd running of the prestigious Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals is underway, and Competition Eliminator racer Taylor Chomiski is bringing more than a reliable Chevrolet Cobalt and a strong, fast engine built by his father and crew chief, Gary Chomiski. The second-generation NHRA competitor is bringing a fresh perspective and renewed determination after a - [Shane Gray Set to Make Pro Mod Debut With Elite Motorsports and Modern Racing at NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/shane-gray-set-to-make-pro-mod-debut-with-elite-motorsports-and-modern-racing-at-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Former multi-time Pro Stock national event winner Shane Gray will return to NHRA competition this weekend at the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, driving in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Modified Series presented by Elite Motorsports. Gray, who calls North Carolina home, will make his Pro - [JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Resumes Championship Chase at 'The Big Go' In Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-resumes-championship-chase-at-the-big-go-in-indy/): After its summer break, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports jumps right back into its Road to the Championship playoffs in a major way, racing on the sport’s biggest stage as part of this weekend’s Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. This - [NitrOlympX 2026: A Race Against The Clock](https://dragillustrated.com/nitrolympx-2026-a-race-against-the-clock/): More than 47,000 fans packed the grandstands of the Rico Anthes Quartermile at Hockenheim for round 3 of the FIA European Drag Racing Championship. But after rain delays, hard-fought eliminations, and a pair of major oildowns, the clock ultimately won. The 39th NitrOlympX had almost everything a drag racing fan could ask for: spectacular qualifying - [PEAK Named Presenting Sponsor of Drag Illustrated's 2026 NHRA U.S. Nationals Event Hub](https://dragillustrated.com/peak-presenting-sponsor-drag-illustrated-2026-nhra-us-nationals-event-hub/): PEAK is the presenting sponsor of the Drag Illustrated Event Hub for the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, the first brand to sign on to DI's new event coverage platform. - [Huge Field Set for Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/huge-field-set-for-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-series-at-u-s-nationals/): The 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools U.S. Nationals, September 4-7, will feature one of the largest contingents of Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series competitors in recent memory. Over two dozen Chevrolet COPO Camaros, Ford Mustang Cobra Jets and Dodge Challenger Drag Paks fill the entry list for what is shaping up to be a historic - [FloRacing to Exclusively Broadcast Sportsman World Finals as Elite Sponsor Coalition Guarantees Massive $150,000 Purse](https://dragillustrated.com/floracing-to-exclusively-broadcast-sportsman-world-finals-as-elite-sponsor-coalition-guarantees-massive-150000-purse/): Grassroots drag racing reaches its biggest stage yet this fall. Officials today announced that FloRacing, the leading name in grassroots racing coverage, will provide exclusive, multi-camera live coverage of the Sportsman World Finals. The marquee competition takes place October 22–24, 2026, at the famed Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. Viewers will have full access on FloRacing - [Spencer Hyde Set For PlayNHRA All-Star Funny Car Callout at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-set-for-playnhra-all-star-funny-car-callout-at-u-s-nationals/): Spencer Hyde will have an added challenge, and an added opportunity, when the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car rolls into Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park for the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, September 4-7. Hyde earned the eighth and final position in the PlayNHRA All-Star Funny Car Callout, putting him in an eight-car field - [Elite Motorsports Hopes to Continue Long Legacy of Success at NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-hopes-to-continue-long-legacy-of-success-at-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Elite Motorsports is heading to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park for the biggest event of the year, the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. As the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series regular season draws to its thrilling conclusion, the mega-team enters the historic venue with momentum, championship positioning, and a long legacy - [Leah Pruett, Matt Hagan Ride Into NHRA U.S. Nationals With Significant Momentum and High Expectations](https://dragillustrated.com/leah-pruett-matt-hagan-ride-into-nhra-u-s-nationals-with-significant-momentum-and-high-expectations/): As the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park for the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) drivers Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan enter drag racing’s grandest stage – The Big Go – with significant momentum and high expectations. Leah Pruett and her Dodge Top - [Kalitta Motorsports, DHL, Kalitta Air Partner in the "Race to End Hunger"](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-motorsports-dhl-kalitta-air-partner-in-the-race-to-end-hunger-2/): The Race to End Hunger campaign donated some 3.75 million meals* to Feeding America® and the Feeding America network of food banks in the last four years, but food insecurity remains a major problem in the United States. The Race to End Hunger returns in September to continue the effort. Kalitta Motorsports, long-time partner DHL - [Fans Get Free Preview of Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals Courtesy of Richmond Auctions](https://dragillustrated.com/fans-get-free-preview-of-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals-courtesy-of-richmond-auctions/): For the third straight year, fans will be able to watch the opening days of the world’s biggest drag race for free on NHRA.tv and the NHRA YouTube page. Beginning with the start of Wednesday qualifying through the final round of the Sox & Martin HEMI Challenge on Friday, fans will get a free preview - [Quick 32 Sportsman Series Ready for Labour Day Weekend at Toronto Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/quick-32-sportsman-series-ready-for-labour-day-weekend-at-toronto-motorsports-park/): The Quick 32 Sportsman Series returns to Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario, this Labour Day Weekend, September 4-6, bringing together high-horsepower Top Dragster and Top Sportsman teams for the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series as part of the NHRA National Open double-header during Toronto Motorsports Park’s Labour Day Weekend Spectacular. Established in 2009, the - [One Year After Top Fuel Return, Vandergriff Enters Indy in Thick of Funny Car Regular Season Title Hunt](https://dragillustrated.com/one-year-after-top-fuel-return-vandergriff-enters-indy-in-thick-of-funny-car-regular-season-title-hunt/): A year ago, Jordan Vandergriff was thankful for the opportunity to make a two-race return as a substitute Top Fuel driver. This year, he enters this weekend’s 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park second in the Funny Car points, driving the Cornwell Tools Funny Car for NHRA - [Zizzo Racing Focused on Success at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/zizzo-racing-focused-on-success-at-u-s-nationals/): The most important drag race of the year, the 72nd NHRA U.S. Nationals contested outside Indianapolis, Indiana, is coming up for Zizzo Racing and Top Fuel racer TJ Zizzo. A win at “The Big Go,” as it is known in drag racing circles, solidifies every driver’s resume. For Zizzo Racing, the chance to stand in - [Cruz Pederegon Racing Highlights Hailey's Army for Children](https://dragillustrated.com/cruz-pederegon-racing-highlights-haileys-army-for-children/): During the NHRA U.S. Nationals, two-time NHRA Funny Car world champion Cruz Pedregon will be joining a growing movement to support Hailey’s Army for Children, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Hailey’s Army for Children, Inc. exists to protect children and defend their future through relentless online safety advocacy and prevention training that reflect the realities of - [Alexis DeJoria to Race John Force's Legendary Night Stalker Scheme at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-to-race-john-forces-legendary-night-stalker-scheme-at-u-s-nationals/): Alexis DeJoria will have a cadre of friends and family cheering her on at the Sept. 4-7 Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals and she’s hoping the Night Stalker tribute paint scheme on her John Force Racing Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car will provide that little something extra to put her in the Indianapolis - [As Indy's Biggest Winner, Tony Schumacher Looks for Turnaround at Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/as-indys-biggest-winner-tony-schumacher-looks-for-turnaround-at-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals/): The season has not gone as planned thus far for Top Fuel standout Tony Schumacher. But all of that can change in an instant at this weekend’s prestigious 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. It’s a race that helped shape Schumacher’s legacy of the winningest and most - [Ron Capps Motorsports Goes All-In with Carlyle Tools at U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-motorsports-goes-all-in-with-carlyle-tools-at-u-s-nationals/): Fans of the championship-winning Ron Capps Motorsports team might feel like they’re seeing double when Ron Capps and Maddi Gordon hit the track Friday night at this weekend’s NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. Both Capps and Gordon’s 12,000-horsepower machines will sport the signature Carlyle Tools venom green at the 72nd running of the Big Go - [The Wes Buck Show Goes Live From Nitro Alley at the NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/wes-buck-show-live-nitro-alley-nhra-us-nationals/): Drag Illustrated's flagship program broadcasts three hours live from Nitro Alley on Friday, Sept. 4, simulcast across DI and NHRA digital platforms, with NHRA President Glen Cromwell, Matt Hagan, Erica Enders, Clay Millican, Ron Capps, Ida Zetterstrom, Shawn Ellington and Ryan Martin. - [Julie Nataas Returns to Nitro Funny Car at NHRA U.S. Nationals With Hedingers Equipment](https://dragillustrated.com/julie-nataas-returns-to-nitro-funny-car-at-nhra-u-s-nationals-with-hedingers-equipment/): Julie Nataas will return to the driver’s seat of the DC Motorsports GR Supra tuned by Del Worsham and backed by Hedingers Equipment Toyota Supra Funny Car for Del Worsham at the NHRA U.S. Nationals, September 4–7 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. The U.S. Nationals will mark Nataas’ first race behind the wheel since - [Funny Car's Chris King Looking for Indy Magic at U.S. Nationals With New Look Hot Rod](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-cars-chris-king-looking-for-indy-magic-at-u-s-nationals-with-new-look-hot-rod/): The 72nd NHRA Cornwell Tools U.S. Nationals will be a massive event celebrating the 75th anniversary of the NHRA. For Funny Car driver and team owner Chris King the event will mark a return to racing action and an opportunity to etch his name into the drag racing history books. The part-time race team has - [Big Nitro Fields To Headline Indy Action at Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/big-nitro-fields-to-headline-indy-action-at-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals/): Biggest nitro fields since 2012 among the more than 850 entries set to compete at the world’s biggest drag race. Still need a reason to attend this weekend’s prestigious 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at the famed Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park? How about 45 of them, as in the 45 Top - [The Farm Yields Spectacular Return For SEGA In The G-Force Racing Transmissions Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/the-farm-yields-spectacular-return-for-sega-in-the-g-force-racing-transmissions-nationals/): Fans at Farmington Dragway in Mocksville, North Carolina, hadn’t tasted the sweet drag racing fruit of Southeast Gassers Association drag racing since 2022. The 2026 G-Force Racing Transmissions Nationals visit, serving as SEGA’s sixth race of the season, was one that fans were certainly glad to sink their teeth into. “I’ve been going to Farmington - [It All Comes Down to the Points for Steve Johnson at Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/it-all-comes-down-to-the-points-for-steve-johnson-at-indy/): Two-time Indy winner, Steve Johnson, rolls into the drag racing’s prestigious Labor Day weekend extravaganza, the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, seeking to earn a third Indy crown and solidify his spot in the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Countdown to the Championship. This year he’ll be enjoying the support of World Tek - [Tony Stewart to Host Bowling Tournament Benefiting Speedway Children's Charities - Texas](https://dragillustrated.com/tony-stewart-to-host-bowling-tournament-benefiting-speedway-childrens-charities-texas/): Motorsports Icon Tony Stewart will partner with Speedway Children’s Charities at Texas Motor Speedway and 105.3 The Fan to help raise funds for children in need throughout Collin, Dallas, Denton and Tarrant counties during the second annual Tony Stewart Bowling Tournament on Wednesday, October 14, at Lucky Strike in Euless. “I’m excited we get to - [Butner, Camp, Green, Beattie Jr., and Vincent Take Home Wins at PDRA Drag Wars](https://dragillustrated.com/butner-camp-green-beattie-jr-and-vincent-take-home-wins-at-pdra-drag-wars/): Records, upsets, and huge points implications were the story of the day on Saturday at the PDRA Drag Wars presented by Big Stuff Total Power Management at Darana Motorsports Park in Benson, North Carolina. In Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars, Marcus Butner made a huge push to defend his 2025 points championship, taking - [Tutterow, Bush, Essick, Beattie Jr., and McGee Earn Top Qualifying Honors at PDRA Drag Wars](https://dragillustrated.com/tutterow-bush-essick-beattie-jr-and-mcgee-earn-top-qualifying-honors-at-pdra-drag-wars/): Intermittent rain showers attempted to halt qualifying multiple times on Friday at the PDRA Drag Wars presented by Big Stuff Total Power Management, but the fans who stuck it out were treated to one of the most intense final qualifying sessions of the season. With 28 entries in WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting - [Give These Girls Lemons and They Make Lemonade](https://dragillustrated.com/give-these-girls-lemons-and-they-make-lemonade/): Princess Pink Lemonade Stand Returns to NHRA U.S. Nationals to Benefit Riley Children’s Hospital The daughters of some of NHRA drag racing’s most recognizable drivers and team members will once again come together during the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park to support the Princess Pink Lemonade - [Massive List of Legends to Celebrate NHRA's 75th Anniversary at Cornwell Quality Tools U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/massive-list-of-legends-to-celebrate-nhras-75th-anniversary-at-cornwell-quality-tools-u-s-nationals/): The world’s biggest drag race will have one of the biggest collections of NHRA legends on hand, as a huge list of the most iconic names in NHRA history will help celebrate the prestigious 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at the famed Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on Sept. 2-7. As part - [Edinburg Motorsports Park Set to Join NHRA Member Track Network in South Central Division](https://dragillustrated.com/edinburg-motorsports-park-set-to-join-nhra-member-track-network-in-south-central-division/): NHRA officials are thrilled to announce Edinburg Motorsports Park as the newest member of the NHRA Member Track Network in the South Central Division (Division 4). CEO Albert Rodriguez owns the standout South Texas facility, which continues to experience impressive growth in the area. The facility, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, recently enjoyed a - [After Dramatic Indy Race, Small Tire Pro Stock’s Chad Neuenschwander Ready for Ohio Event](https://dragillustrated.com/after-dramatic-indy-race-small-tire-pro-stocks-chad-neuenschwander-ready-for-ohio-event/): Chad Neuenschwander has been a standout in the naturally aspirated racing scene for many years. Whether he is piloting his own car or helping others with their cars, he revels in the rpm, loves the hard launches and is stoked by the sound of engines from the starting line to the finish line. Neuenschwander’s passion - [California Hot Rod Reunion Returning to Famoso With Nitro, Nostalgia & 17 Classes](https://dragillustrated.com/california-hot-rod-reunion-returning-to-famoso-with-nitro-nostalgia-17-classes/): Three days. Seventeen classes. And enough nitro to shake Famoso. The California Hot Rod Reunion, presented by Good Vibrations Motorsports and featuring Nitro Revival, roars back to Famoso Dragstrip October 23–25, 2026, bringing three days of racing, history and horsepower to one of the most legendary dragstrips in the country. And yes — THE NITRO CARS ARE COMING! - [New Sonnax Upgrade Protects Against One of The TH400, 4L80-E Most Catastrophic Failure Points](https://dragillustrated.com/new-sonnax-upgrade-protects-against-one-of-the-th400-4l80-e-most-catastrophic-failure-points/): Sonnax Transmission Company has announced the release of its new heavy duty low roller clutch assembly, an innovative transmission upgrade to address one of the most destructive failure points in GM TH400, 4L80-E and 4L85-E transmissions: the direct drum. Designed for high-horsepower racing, towing and heavy-duty performance vehicles, the patent-pending assembly delivers enhanced durability and - [Two of Drag Racing's Most Familiar Faces Are Headed to Stroud Safety](https://dragillustrated.com/two-of-drag-racings-most-familiar-faces-are-headed-to-stroud-safety/): Stroud Safety has added Allen and Debbie Bridges to its team, bringing one of drag racing's most recognizable trackside duos to the Oklahoma City-based motorsports safety manufacturer. The husband-and-wife team has spent more than 30 years working directly with racers at the racetrack - 31 of those years on the NHRA midway, most recently with - [PEAK to Honor John Force's Incredible 1996 Season With Throwback Paint Scheme at NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/peak-to-honor-john-forces-incredible-1996-season-with-throwback-paint-scheme-at-nhra-u-s-nationals/): The ultimate definition of NHRA competitive dominance that was John Force’s 1996 championship season was capped off with a special paint scheme at that year’s season finale and it’s that same iconic black-and-white flame job scheme that Jack Beckman’s PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car will carry at the Sept. 2-7 Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. - [NHRA Releases 20-Race Schedule for Upcoming 2027 Season, Featuring Year-Long “50 Years of Force” Celebration](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-releases-20-race-schedule-for-upcoming-2027-season-featuring-year-long-50-years-of-force-celebration/): Following an announcement of a return to a traditional schedule to start the year, NHRA announced the full 20-race schedule for the upcoming 2027 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. The 2027 campaign – which is NHRA’s 76th season – will also feature the season-long “50 Years of Force” celebration honoring legendary 16-time Funny - [Two-Time Funny Car Champ Austin Prock Ready For Challenge in PlayNHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout at Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/two-time-funny-car-champ-austin-prock-ready-for-challenge-in-playnhra-funny-car-all-star-callout-at-indy/): Two-time reigning Funny Car world champion Austin Prock is entering this year’s 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals with more to prove than just defending his PlayNHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout title. With a stacked field of NHRA Funny Car drivers, including five world champions with 11 combined titles, defending the Callout crown - [Two-Time NHRA Champion Bo Butner and America's Auto Auction Partner to Pursue Victory in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/two-time-nhra-champion-bo-butner-and-americas-auto-auction-partner-to-pursue-victory-in-2026/): With a full and clean bill of health following a victorious battle over cancer, Indiana-based Bo Butner is all in with a renewed commitment to NHRA’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. Eager to get down to business, Butner is pleased to announce a major partnership with America’s Auto Auction/America’s Clark County for the remainder of - [WHEN SECONDS COUNT: Race Car Emergency Extrication Demonstration Brings First Responders and Motorsports Safety Together at Toronto Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/when-seconds-count-race-car-emergency-extrication-demonstration-brings-first-responders-and-motorsports-safety-together-at-toronto-motorsports-park/): What happens when a race car crashes and a driver needs to be safely removed from a vehicle specifically designed to withstand the forces of a serious racing accident? Residents will have an opportunity to see that emergency response firsthand during WHEN SECONDS COUNT – Race Car Emergency Extrication, a realistic, controlled emergency-response demonstration taking - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 438 | Scott Taylor & Steve King!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-438-scott-taylor-steve-king/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 437"PRO MOD, OUTLAW STREET & A .004 BULLET" BIG WINS. BIG PERSONALITIES. AND TWO DUDES WHO KNOW HOW TO GET IT DONE. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we're talking fast doorslammers, big moves, and one absolutely ICE COLD performance on the starting line. First up, we've got - [Triple 60th Anniversary Treat Awaits Santa Pod Fans at the European Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/triple-60th-anniversary-treat-awaits-santa-pod-fans-at-the-european-finals/): A triple treat awaits fans attending Europe’s premier drag race weekend at Santa Pod Raceway from 9th to 13th September. Europe’s 2026 racing season climaxes with the FIA/FIM European Finals. Currently some 300 car and motorcycle racers from 17 countries are numbered on the entry list. Drag racing’s usual plethora of classes on both two and four - [Momentum Continues To Build For Dubbin Motorsports After Steady Brainerd Nationals Weekend](https://dragillustrated.com/momentum-continues-to-build-for-dubbin-motorsports-after-steady-brainerd-nationals-weekend/): Dubbin Motorsports and driver Kirk Wolf continued their push to build late‑season momentum and resolve lingering performance issues at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, held this past weekend at Brainerd International Raceway. With two solid qualifying passes and a competitive showing in eliminations, the DMP Awnings / Kentex Roofing‑backed team demonstrated forward progress as they work - [Justin Ashley Leads SCAG Racing to Semifinals at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/justin-ashley-leads-scag-racing-to-semifinals-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): SCAG Racing continued to build momentum at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, with Justin Ashley advancing to the semifinals at Brainerd International Raceway. Ashley qualified No. 5 in the SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel dragster with a 3.743-second pass at 333.99 mph. In the first round of eliminations, Ashley posted a .038 reaction time and a - [Freeman's Long Game: Enders, Stanfield Make First Top Fuel Runs at Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/freemans-long-game-enders-stanfield-make-first-top-fuel-runs-at-indy/): Two of the best door car racers alive made their first passes in a Top Fuel dragster Wednesday at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. What they felt is the easy part of the story. The hard part is what Richard Freeman is building behind it. - [Angelle Sampey Shows Progress with Semifinal Finish at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/angelle-sampey-shows-progress-with-semifinal-finish-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): Angelle Sampey and the Michalek Brothers Racing team continued to make progress with their Hangsterfer’s/FVP/Mission Foods A/Fuel dragster, racing to a semifinal finish at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway. Sampey opened Top Alcohol Dragster qualifying in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series with a 5.836-second pass at 182.55 mph, placing her No. - [Bandero Premium Tequila Doubles Down at the NHRA U.S. Nationals with Alexis DeJoria and Ida Zetterström](https://dragillustrated.com/bandero-premium-tequila-doubles-down-at-the-nhra-u-s-nationals-with-alexis-dejoria-and-ida-zetterstrom/): Bandero Premium Tequila is doubling down at the Big Go. With NHRA’s largest and most iconic event as the backdrop, Bandero will put its brands on full display in the sport’s premier Top Fuel and Funny Car categories at the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, Sept. 4-7, at Indianapolis Raceway Park. Alexis DeJoria - [Antron Brown Clinches NHRA Countdown Berth at Brainerd, Races to Quarterfinals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-clinches-nhra-countdown-berth-at-brainerd-races-to-quarterfinals/): Antron Brown officially secured his place in the NHRA Countdown to the Championship during qualifying at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals before racing the Matco Tools Eagle Experience team to a second-round finish Sunday at Brainerd International Raceway. Brown, a six-time Brainerd winner across Top Fuel and Pro Stock Motorcycle, opened qualifying Friday afternoon with a - [Alexis DeJoria’s Consistent Brainerd Run Ends in Close Quarterfinal Battle](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejorias-consistent-brainerd-run-ends-in-close-quarterfinal-battle/): Bandero Café Funny Car driver Alexis DeJoria was six for six at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, running in the competitive 3.9-second range all weekend long, but her bid for a second Wally trophy from Brainerd International Raceway ended in the quarterfinal round of eliminations when she was defeated by her John Force Racing teammate in - [OUTLAW Light Beer Makes A Splash With Spencer Hyde at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/outlaw-light-beer-makes-a-splash-with-spencer-hyde-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): The NHRA Brainerd Nationals delivered the usual mix of nitro-fueled competition and legendary campground chaos, but for Spencer Hyde and Head Racing, the weekend was about more than what happened on the racetrack. OUTLAW Light Beer joined Hyde and the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car team as the primary sponsor for the weekend, bringing - [AMRA Harleys Go Big in Byron](https://dragillustrated.com/amra-harleys-go-big-in-byron/): When the PennGrade1 American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA) Harley-Davidson drag racing series came to Illinois’ Byron Dragway for the first time last year, race day was a total washout. A few sprinkles made for only the slightest of delays this time around on August 8-9, as eliminations ran through the day to great side-by-side conclusions. - [Vandergriff Jumps to Second in Funny Car Points With NHRA Brainerd Nationals Runner-Up](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-jumps-to-second-in-funny-car-points-with-nhra-brainerd-nationals-runner-up/): Jordan Vandergriff finished just a few feet short of a storybook weekend at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, but the John Force Racing Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car driver still earned his fourth final-round appearance of the season and is second in the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series point standings heading into the - [Ron Capps Reaches Quarterfinals at Brainerd, Turns Focus to Indy](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-reaches-quarterfinals-at-brainerd-turns-focus-to-indy/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team advanced to the quarterfinals Sunday at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, closing a challenging weekend at the Minnesota facility where Capps holds seven wins. After holding the Funny Car points lead following nine of the season’s first 12 races, the three-time world - [Melanie Johnson Races to Runner-Up Finish at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/melanie-johnson-races-to-runner-up-finish-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): Melanie Johnson captured her first career NHRA national event runner-up finish in Top Alcohol Dragster at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway. Returning to action after a seven-week break, Johnson powered the Speedmaster A/Fuel dragster through eliminations to set up an all-teammate final round against Anthony Troyer. Johnson opened the weekend qualified third - [David Theisen Earns Small Tire Pro Stock Indy Win and NHRA Speed For All Wally](https://dragillustrated.com/david-theisen-earns-small-tire-pro-stock-indy-win-and-nhra-speed-for-all-wally/): Despite stifling heat and humidity, Small Tire Pro Stock racers suited up and staged their cars for close competition at the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series SummerNationals, Aug. 7-9, 2026 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indiana. Staying focused was a feat as temperatures tipped over 90 degrees, but racers were on a mission - [Orlando Speed World Dragway Announces High-Stakes Mountain Motor Pro Stock Class for 33rd Annual World Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/orlando-speed-world-dragway-announces-high-stakes-mountain-motor-pro-stock-class-for-33rd-annual-world-street-nationals/): “The Grandfather of All Events” is raising the stakes for the 33rd Annual World Street Nationals, set to take place November 12-15, 2026 at Orlando SpeedWorld Dragway. Highlighting this year’s legendary event is the feature-packed Strange Engineering Mountain Motor Pro Stock class, where top drivers will go head-to-head for a $20,000 top prize and the - [Maddi Gordon Charges to Second Career Final Round at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-charges-to-second-career-final-round-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): NHRA Rookie of the Year contender Maddi Gordon raced to her second career Top Fuel final round Sunday afternoon at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, losing a close race to two-time and reigning world champion Doug Kalitta. Gordon and her Carlyle Tools team put together one of their best weekend-long performances of - [Hometown Victory at NHRA Brainerd Nationals Extends Greg Anderson's Lead in Pro Stock Points](https://dragillustrated.com/hometown-victory-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals-extends-greg-andersons-lead-in-pro-stock-points/): Greg Anderson stood atop the winner’s stage on Sunday at Brainerd International Raceway wearing an enormous grin to go along with a buffalo plaid trapper hat emblazoned with the BIR logo perched on his head. The most winning driver in Pro Stock had every reason to smile on Sunday at the 44th annual NHRA Brainerd - [Matt Hagan Takes American Rebel Light Beer to Winner's Circle in Brainerd](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-hagan-takes-american-rebel-light-beer-to-winners-circle-in-brainerd/): Matt Hagan and the American Rebel Light Beer Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car team took over the points lead with their third win of the season Sunday at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway. In the final round and their first career match-up, Hagan defeated Funny Car rookie Jordan Vandergriff when he powered his - [Championship Battles Intensify as PDRA Returns to Benson for DragWars](https://dragillustrated.com/championship-battles-intensify-as-pdra-returns-to-benson-for-dragwars/): With just two races remaining in the 2026 Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series season, championship implications will be front and center when the series returns to Darana Motorsports Park – Benson, Aug. 27-29, for DragWars presented by Big Stuff Total Power Management. Tight points battles across several professional and sportsman categories, combined with - [Hagan, Kalitta, and Anderson Battle Their Way To Wins at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/hagan-kalitta-and-anderson-battle-their-way-to-wins-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): Four-time Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan moved into the points lead, defeating Jordan Vandergriff in the final round in front of another huge crowd on Sunday at Brainerd International Raceway to win the 44th annual NHRA Brainerd Nationals. Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) also won the 13th of 20 races - [Jordan Vandergriff Tops Brainerd Funny Car Field One Year After Return to Competition](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-tops-brainerd-funny-car-field-one-year-after-return-to-competition/): One year ago at Brainerd International Raceway, Jordan Vandergriff returned to NHRA Drag Racing competition after a six-year layoff and today finds him the No. 1 Qualifier in Funny Car heading into Sunday’s eliminations for the NHRA Brainerd Nationals. Vandergriff wheeled John Force Racing’s Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Funny Car to a run of 3.879 seconds - [Greg Anderson Closes Brainerd qualifying With Another Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge Title](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-closes-brainerd-qualifying-with-another-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-title/): As qualifying wrapped at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, incoming Pro Stock points leader Greg Anderson made yet another strong move as he powered to a third Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge victory of the season in his KB Titan Racing-powered HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro. In defeating KB Titan teammate Dallas Glenn in the final, Anderson tied his - [Kalitta, Todd, and G. Anderson Get Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge Wins at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-todd-and-g-anderson-get-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-wins-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): Kalitta, Jordan Vandergriff and Dallas Glenn power to No. 1 qualifying spots at Brainerd International Raceway. It’s been a perfect weekend at Brainerd International Raceway through two days for Top Fuel’s Doug Kalitta, as the reigning world champion won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in front of a huge crowd on Saturday and also clinched the - [Kalitta, Prock, and Latino Open NHRA Brainerd Nationals in Provisional No. 1 Spots](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-prock-and-latino-open-nhra-brainerd-nationals-in-provisional-no-1-spots/): Reigning Top Fuel world champion Doug Kalitta earned the provisional No. 1 spot on Friday at Brainerd International Raceway to kick off the weekend at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals. Kalitta took his Mac Tools Top Fuel dragster to a 3.705-second pass at 340.30 mph to land in the provisional No. 1 qualifier position on Friday, - [Elite Motorsports Announces Partnership With Polaris](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-announces-partnership-with-polaris/): Elite Motorsports, the largest professional operation in NHRA Championship Drag Racing, announced a dynamic partnership with Polaris, a global leader in powersports. The collaboration bridges high-performance drag racing with off-road adventure, through storytelling, influencer activations, and behind-the-scenes content to engage motorsports fans and new lifestyle audiences alike. Polaris branding will be integrated across Elite Motorsports’ - [Southeast Gassers Association Ready To Toil At The Farm For The G-Force Racing Transmissions Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-association-ready-to-toil-at-the-farm-for-the-g-force-racing-transmissions-nationals/): The top traveling gasser series in the world, the Southeast Gassers Association, is set to get down on The Farm – Farmington Dragway for the G-Force Racing Transmissions Nationals, August 21-22. It’s race six of the SEGA Championship season and stop two on a Carolina swing that began in Rockingham, North Carolina, and will end - [Funny Car Points Leader Ron Capps Returns to Brainerd International Raceway as NHRA 75th Anniversary Honoree](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-car-points-leader-ron-capps-returns-to-brainerd-international-raceway-as-nhra-75th-anniversary-honoree/): Ron Capps is no stranger to the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series winner’s circle – especially at Brainerd International Raceway – and the three-time world champion will have his eye on another NHRA Brainerd Nationals win this weekend. Capps is the winningest active NHRA driver at Brainerd International Raceway, with an impressive seven wins - [SCAG Racing Looks to Carry Momentum Into Brainerd as Countdown Nears](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-racing-looks-to-carry-momentum-into-brainerd-as-countdown-nears/): With the NHRA Countdown to the Championship quickly approaching, SCAG Racing heads to Brainerd International Raceway this weekend for the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, the penultimate race of the regular season. The Minnesota stop marks an important opportunity for the SCAG Racing team to continue building momentum ahead of the NHRA U.S. Nationals and the six-race - [Elite Motorsports Excited to Debut New Pro Stock Cars at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-excited-to-debut-new-pro-stock-cars-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): Coming off the West Coast Swing and a three week break, Elite Motorsports nears the climax of the regular season as they head to Brainerd International Raceway for the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, race 13 of 20 in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The Wynnewood, Oklahoma-based outfit enters the Land of 10,000 Lakes focused - [With Countdown Spots Secured, Pruett and Hagan Focused on NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/with-countdown-spots-secured-pruett-and-hagan-focused-on-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): The NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, the 13th event on the 20-race Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series schedule, marks a pivotal weekend for Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) drivers Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan. With only two races remaining before the playoffs begin, both TSR pilots head to Minnesota having officially secured their - [Brainerd "Battle For the Axe" Returns During Friday Night Qualifying at NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/brainerd-battle-for-the-axe-returns-during-friday-night-qualifying-at-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): Friday night qualifying at the 44th annual NHRA Brainerd Nationals will once again offer bonus money, bragging rights and a distinctly Northwoods flavor with the return of the Brainerd “Battle for the Axe,” presented by Visit Brainerd & Baxter. During the second professional qualifying session in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series on Friday, - [The WBS | Ep. 436 | Bill & Billy Hoskinson, Ned Dunphy, & Tyler Crossnoe](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wbs-ep-436-bill-billy-hoskinson-ned-dunphy-tyler-crossnoe/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 436"FAMILY BUSINESS, FIRST WINS & WHAT'S NEXT" BIG WINS. BIG RACES. BIG PERSONALITIES. AND A WHOLE LOTTA HORSEPOWER. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we've got one of those lineups where you already know we're probably not staying on schedule. First up, Bill and Billy Hoskinson are in - [Brainerd a Key Turning Point in Jordan Vandergriff's Career](https://dragillustrated.com/brainerd-a-key-turning-point-in-jordan-vandergriffs-career/): Jordan Vandergriff and the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team have already achieved many milestones in the Funny Car driver’s rookie season but their participation in this week’s NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway or the entire season may not have happened if it weren’t for his performance there last year. It was - [PDRA to Offer Flexible and Free Ticketing Specials at World Finals in Virginia](https://dragillustrated.com/pdra-to-offer-flexible-and-free-ticketing-specials-at-world-finals-in-virginia/): “There’s just too much going on to make it fit in my schedule.” Words that every promoter, racing series, or racetrack has heard at some point from a race fan or someone wanting to attend an event. The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series is offering new ticketing specials for fans at the Pro - [Jack Beckman Looks to Achieve Another Brainerd Milestone](https://dragillustrated.com/jack-beckman-looks-to-achieve-another-brainerd-milestone/): Jack Beckman has many positive events to reflect upon when he returns to Brainerd (Minn.) International Raceway for the Aug. 20-23 NHRA Brainerd Nationals. He can think about his 2018 event win there, when he defeated a then-teammate in the final round. He can ruminate on his 2008 and 2010 runner-up finishes early on in - [Top Fuel's Doug Kalitta Again Red-Hot Heading to NHRA Brainerd Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-doug-kalitta-again-red-hot-heading-to-nhra-brainerd-nationals/): For the second straight year, things are coming together at the perfect time for Top Fuel veteran Doug Kalitta heading into this weekend’s NHRA Brainerd Nationals at famed Brainerd International Raceway. The two-time and reigning world champion is nearly replicating last year’s ideal recipe of getting hot late in the regular season, which proved ideal - [Dubbin Motorsports Set to Debut the "Funster" In Top Alcohol Dragster At Brainerd](https://dragillustrated.com/dubbin-motorsports-set-to-debut-the-funster-in-top-alcohol-dragster-at-brainerd/): Dubbin Motorsports will debut a new Top Alcohol Dragster entry at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals, August 20-23 at Brainerd International Raceway, with team owner Dean Dubbin returning to the driver’s seat. The car blends design elements from two different chassis types into a single hybrid configuration the drag racing industry has dubbed the “Funster.” The - [Mid-West Drag Racing Series Aims for Massive Double Event at Flying H](https://dragillustrated.com/mid-west-drag-racing-series-aims-for-massive-double-event-at-flying-h/): The Mid-West Drag Racing Series Double Header Smackdown at Flying H Drag Strip looks to be one for the history books as double races mean two full-points paying events at the Odessa, Missouri drag strip. Fans should expect an incredible show as Douthit Motorsports is locked in to provide a jet car shootout, a car - [Mitch Kalitta’s Top Alcohol Dragster to Carry Kalitta Air Careers for NHRA Debut at Brainerd](https://dragillustrated.com/mitch-kalittas-top-alcohol-dragster-to-carry-kalitta-air-careers-for-nhra-debut-at-brainerd/): The next chapter of the Kalitta family racing legacy is getting ready to hit the NHRA track. Mitch Kalitta, son of NHRA Top Fuel standout Doug Kalitta, will debut his rookie Top Alcohol Dragster campaign with Randy Meyer Racing at the Brainerd Nationals. The dragster will feature prominent branding from Kalitta Air Careers, which is - [“The Work Never Stops” as Steve Johnson Seeks More Success](https://dragillustrated.com/the-work-never-stops-as-steve-johnson-seeks-more-success/): As the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series enjoys its summer break, the Pro Stock Motorcycle class has also taken an extended recess, after reaching the halfway point in their 14-race season in June. Steve Johnson knows the extended break means one thing: it’s time to prepare his 40th anniversary tour Suzuki for the biggest - [Motorsports Finds a Voice in Florida’s Republican Race for Governor](https://dragillustrated.com/motorsports-finds-a-voice-in-floridas-republican-race-for-governor/): With Florida’s Republican gubernatorial primary entering its final stretch, an issue rarely heard on the campaign trail has found its way into the political conversation: motorsports. Republican candidate James Fishback has increasingly made protecting Florida’s racetracks and racing culture part of his campaign message. The conversation gained momentum after racer, entrepreneur and content creator Cleetus - [PHOTO GALLERY: War at 304](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-war-at-304/): Promoted by Billy Hoskinson and the team at Street Racing Channel, War at 304 took over West Virginia's 304 Motorsports Park on Aug. 14-15 for a no-prep race at one of the most unique tracks in drag racing. Located on a reclaimed mountain coal mine, 304 Motorsports Park began as Almost Heaven Motorsports Park and - [Dubbin Motorsports Looking for Success in Brainerd With Two Radically Different Cars](https://dragillustrated.com/dubbin-motorsports-looking-for-success-in-brainerd-with-two-radically-different-cars/): After a season defined by frustration, Dean Dubbin and the Dubbin Motorsports A/Fuel Dragster team arrive at Brainerd with something they haven’t had much of in 2026: momentum. Persistent mechanical issues have kept the team on its heels for much of the year, forcing Dubbin to regroup, re‑evaluate, and ultimately take the car to Indianapolis - [PHOTO GALLERY: ANRA Summer Nationals Brings the Heat to Famoso Dragstrip](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-anra-summer-nationals-brings-the-heat-to-famoso-dragstrip/): The American Nostalgia Racing Association brought two days of tight index racing, sharp reaction times and plenty of competition to Famoso Dragstrip for the ANRA Summer Nationals. Saturday qualifying set the stage, with Frank Merenda leading A/Gas, Tim Gorman topping B/Gas, Danny Vahidi taking the No. 1 spot in C/Gas, Mike Balzer leading D/Gas and - [Free Ice, Ferris Wheels, and a Federal Lawsuit](https://dragillustrated.com/free-ice-ferris-wheels-and-a-federal-lawsuit/): Darryl Cuttell said Elon Musk's company ruined him. A federal filing says the money that built his racing empire was never his to spend. Fifty-seven days after the last IHRA race, nobody has been paid. - [Chris Roe Goes Straight to the Top at NHRA Division 5 Event in Brainerd](https://dragillustrated.com/chris-roe-goes-straight-to-the-top-at-nhra-division-5-event-in-brainerd/): Chris Roe didn’t need many passes to make his presence known at Brainerd International Raceway. After traveling from Florida to Minnesota for the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series West Central Division event, Roe made his official competition debut behind the wheel of the Mustang he is piloting for the Right Trailers team and finished - [Hilton, Westerfield and Seraphine Take Nitro Titles at Firebird Raceway’s 55th Bi-Mart Nightfire Nationals; Williamson Dominates Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/hilton-westerfield-and-seraphine-take-nitro-titles-at-firebird-raceways-55th-bi-mart-nightfire-nationals-williamson-dominates-pro-mod/): Fifty-five years after Twig Zeigler won the first nitro title at the inaugural Nightfire Nationals, a pack of nitro beasts descended on the grounds of Firebird Raceway to do battle in three nitro classes, each looking to take home that coveted Diamond Wally trophy. While the temps were pushing high 90s all weekend, the overflow - [NHRA Countdown to the Championship Kicks Off at Inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals Presented by MOPAR](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-countdown-to-the-championship-kicks-off-at-inaugural-dodge-nhra-great-lakes-nationals-presented-by-mopar/): The 2026 NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs will see a new element of competition as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to US 131 Motorsports Park for the first time for the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by MOPAR on Sept. 18-20. The highly-anticipated debut at US 131 Motorsports Park - [Super.com Named Official Discount App of NHRA](https://dragillustrated.com/super-com-named-official-discount-app-of-nhra/): NHRA officials announced today that Super.com, the all-in-one app that helps everyday Americans save, earn and put more money in their pockets, has been named the Official Discount App of NHRA. Already a sponsor of Rick Ware Racing (RWR) and its Top Fuel driver lineup of Clay Millican and Tony Schumacher, Super.com is augmenting its - [Sick Michigan Miles Presented by Driven Racing Oil Set to Bring 250 of America’s Quickest Street Cars to Michigan](https://dragillustrated.com/sick-michigan-miles-presented-by-driven-racing-oil-set-to-bring-250-of-americas-quickest-street-cars-to-michigan/): Seven days of racing, driving and adventure will take competitors from drag strips to downtown streets and across some of Michigan’s most iconic roads. Sick Michigan Miles Presented by Driven Racing Oil is set to take over Michigan August 17-23, bringing approximately 250 of America’s quickest and fastest real street cars together for a week - [Elite Motorsports Partners With Outdoor America Holdings, Licensee and Packager of Field & Stream TV](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-partners-with-outdoor-america-holdings-licensee-and-packager-of-field-stream-tv/): Elite Motorsports, a premier multi-car powerhouse in NHRA Championship Drag Racing, announced a strategic partnership with iconic lifestyle and outdoor media brand Field & Stream TV and parent company Outdoor America Holdings. The partnership unites two racing and outdoor enthusiast brands that cater to passionate, active American consumers, connecting the high-octane world of championship drag - [Richard Reagan Makes Strong Push for Pro Street Championship at PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown](https://dragillustrated.com/richard-reagan-makes-strong-push-for-pro-street-championship-at-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown/): Richard Reagan entered the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown sitting fourth in points in Liberty’s Gears Pro Street presented by KTR Drag Racing, and threw himself right into championship contention with his win in Bristol. Reagan saved his best run of the weekend for the finals in his screw-blown ’91 Mustang, using a 3.951 at 193.24 mph to outrun class veteran - [Austin Vincent Earns Second Win of 2026, Leaves PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown with Super Street Points Lead](https://dragillustrated.com/austin-vincent-earns-second-win-of-2026-leaves-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown-with-super-street-points-lead/): Throughout the 2026 PDRA season, 1320 Fabrication Super Street presented by Brian’s Heating & Cooling has been dominated by two of the sport’s top young guns: Austin Vincent and Connor McGee. McGee entered the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown leading the points with two event wins on the season, but it was Vincent who took home - [Marcus Butner Grabs First Pro Nitrous Win of 2026 at PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown, Set to Defend Points Title](https://dragillustrated.com/marcus-butner-grabs-first-pro-nitrous-win-of-2026-at-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown-set-to-defend-points-title/): Reigning PDRA Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars world champion Marcus Butner hasn’t had the 2026 season he’d envisioned entering the Thunder Valley Throwdown, sitting fifth in points. He made a massive push to defend his title Saturday night in Bristol, however, pacing the field nearly the entire weekend en route - [Race for Regular Season Title in NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Down to Two Events](https://dragillustrated.com/race-for-regular-season-title-in-nhra-mission-foods-drag-racing-series-down-to-two-events/): Just two races remain in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series regular season, making it the perfect time to check out the points race for the regular season championship during NHRA’s 75th anniversary campaign. With nearly $400,000 overall on the line to the drivers who finish first in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock - [The WBS | Ep. 435| Spencer Hyde, Chase Lautenbach, Michael Poland, & Christie Myer!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wbs-ep-435-spencer-hyde-chase-lautenbach-michael-poland-christie-myer/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 435"BIG MOVES. BIG NAMES. BIG HORSEPOWER." THE FUTURE IS HERE. THE MOMENTUM IS REAL. AND WE'RE JUST GETTING STARTED. Fresh off one of DI's biggest announcements, The Wes Buck Show is rolling full steam ahead with another absolutely loaded lineup. First up, we've got Spencer Hyde. Former World Series - [Ned Dunphy Earns First Career PDRA 660 Man at Thunder Valley Throwdown](https://dragillustrated.com/ned-dunphy-earns-first-career-pdra-660-man-at-thunder-valley-throwdown/): 2025 Hot Rod Drag Week champion Ned Dunphy came out of nowhere on Saturday night at Bristol Dragway in Bristol, Tennessee, capturing his very first PDRA 660 Man by defeating Lyle Barnett in the final round of WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive at the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by - [Olight Set to Become Preferred Illumination Partner of NHRA](https://dragillustrated.com/olight-set-to-become-preferred-illumination-partner-of-nhra/): NHRA officials announced today that Olight, a pioneer in the portable lighting industry, has been named the Preferred Illumination Partner of NHRA as part of a multi-year agreement. Serving a global community of more than 20 million users, Olight is a global innovator in portable lighting. With availability in more than 100 countries and holding - [New Year Resolution 5-Day Bracket Race Set For Bradenton Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/new-year-resolution-5-day-bracket-race-set-for-bradenton-motorsports-park/): Some say that the days just before and directly after December 31 hold important opportunities; they say those days are a time to close the door on the experiences of the previous year and to welcome the new year and all of the possibilities it may hold. Longtime drag racers Bo and Randi Lyn Butner, - [Quick 32 Sportsman Series Returns To Toronto Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/quick-32-sportsman-series-returns-to-toronto-motorsports-park/): The Quick 32 Sportsman Series will return to competition at the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series during the NHRA National Open double-header at Toronto Motorsports Park, scheduled for the Labour Day Weekend Spectacular, September 4-6. The John Scotti Canadian Championship Series will feature the Quick 32 Sportsman Series (Top Dragster and Top Sportsman), Can-Am Stock/Super - [Justin Lamb Closes First Half With Historic Sonoma Win, Looks Ahead to Allstars Race and Beyond](https://dragillustrated.com/justin-lamb-closes-first-half-with-historic-sonoma-win-looks-ahead-to-allstars-race-and-beyond/): The first half of the 2026 season of NHRA’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series has been productive for six-time world champion Justin Lamb. At the conclusion of a trio of races on the West Coast, Lamb’s season total had climbed to an impressively perfect three for three in national event finals, as well as one - [Bill Bader Jr., Summit Motorsports Park Commit to $150,000 World Finals for IHRA Bracket Racers](https://dragillustrated.com/bill-bader-jr-summit-motorsports-park-commit-to-150000-world-finals-for-ihra-bracket-racers/): With uncertainty surrounding the IHRA World Finals for bracket racers around the country, Bill Bader Jr. and his team at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio have stepped up to the plate in a massive way. In an effort to support grassroots drag racing, a $150,000 guaranteed purse has been officially secured for qualifying drivers - [Dunphy, Butner, Reagan, Altman, and Vincent Claim Victories at PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown](https://dragillustrated.com/dunphy-butner-reagan-altman-and-vincent-claim-victories-at-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown/): 2025 Hot Rod Drag Week champion Ned Dunphy came out of nowhere on Saturday night at Bristol Dragway in Bristol, Tennessee, capturing his very first PDRA 660 Man by defeating Lyle Barnett in the final round of WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive at the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by - [2026 PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars: Storylines & Live Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown-presented-by-larry-jeffers-race-cars-storylines-live-coverage/): The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series heads to Bristol Dragway for the Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars, the fifth of seven races on the 2026 tour. - [The ROCK Revival Rejuvenates Southeast Gassers Association 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/the-rock-revival-rejuvenates-southeast-gassers-association-2026-season/): At Knoxville Dragway in late June, with lights ablaze, the rain began to fall along with the light upon the Southeast Gassers Association RAM Clutches Nationals. That moment pushed SEGA drag racing into its summer break, awaiting its completion at the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival at Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina. By the end of - [Butner, Tutterow, Mac, Beattie Jr., and Vincent Qualify No. 1 at PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown](https://dragillustrated.com/butner-tutterow-mac-beattie-jr-and-vincent-qualify-no-1-at-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown/): After hot and humid weather created tricky track conditions for pro teams throughout the day on Friday at the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars, the final session under the lights was a welcome relief. With lightning flashing in the background, Marcus Butner and Tommy Franklin went No. 1 and No. - [Keith Haney Unveils New "Gladiator" Nitrous Pro Mod Camaro](https://dragillustrated.com/keith-haney-unveils-new-gladiator-nitrous-pro-mod-camaro/): Keith Haney has a new weapon, and it has a name to match its intentions. The veteran racer and promoter this week pulled the wraps off "Gladiator," a new nitrous-fed Pro Mod Camaro that marks the official launch of his KB Titan Pro Mod program. The car was built by Quarter-Max, the Galesburg, Illinois, operation - [Mitch Kalitta Joins Randy Meyer Racing for Top Alcohol Dragster Debut](https://dragillustrated.com/mitch-kalitta-joins-randy-meyer-racing-for-top-alcohol-dragster-debut/): Randy Meyer Racing is honored to officially announce that Mitch Kalitta, son of two-time NHRA Top Fuel champion Doug Kalitta, will make his Top Alcohol Dragster debut with the championship-winning team, beginning at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd, Minnesota, before continuing his rookie campaign for the remainder of the 2026 NHRA season. For - [Carson Perry to Make PDRA Pro Boost Debut at Thunder Valley Throwdown](https://dragillustrated.com/carson-perry-to-make-pdra-pro-boost-debut-at-thunder-valley-throwdown/): This weekend’s PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars is set to host perhaps the largest Pro Boost field of the season, thanks in part to the addition of new faces like Carson Perry, who’s making his debut in the class. Racing as a teammate to the most recent Pro Boost winner - [Elite Motorsports to Debut New Jerry Haas Race Cars Pro Stock Cars](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-to-debut-new-jerry-haas-race-cars-pro-stock-cars/): Elite Motorsports has announced they will be switching the Pro Stock entries of six-time world champion Erica Enders, five-time Pro Stock world champion Jeg Coughlin Jr., standout Aaron Stanfield and third generation driver Troy Coughlin Jr., from Quarter-Max Racing RJ Race Cars to Jerry Haas Race Cars beginning at the NHRA Brainerd Nationals at Brainerd - [Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod Moving to Texas Motorplex in 2027](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-world-series-of-pro-mod-moving-to-texas-motorplex-in-2027/): Drag Illustrated is taking the World Series of Pro Mod to Texas.The World Series of Pro Mod, one of the most prestigious events on the drag racing calendar, will move to the historic Texas Motorplex in 2027. The event is scheduled for March 5-7, 2027, bringing the high-powered Pro Mod spectacle to one of drag - [PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown to Include Pat Musi Autograph Session, ‘Back in Black’ Display](https://dragillustrated.com/pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown-to-include-pat-musi-autograph-session-back-in-black-display/): Pat Musi, one of the most prolific engine builders in the history of the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series, will meet and greet fans at this weekend’s PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars at Bristol Dragway. Fans will also have the chance to get up close and personal with - [Rookie Racers Win Big at Mickey Thompson’s Annual Dragster Adventure at Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School](https://dragillustrated.com/rookie-racers-win-big-at-mickey-thompsons-annual-dragster-adventure-at-frank-hawleys-drag-racing-school/): Working for one of the most respected brands in the automotive industry, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, comes with lots of perks. In addition to being immersed in the car culture every day and seeing new products come to market, some lucky employees – and customers from M/T’s traditional and performance aftermarket channels – - [NHRA Adds Motion Performance Raceway to Member Track Network](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-adds-motion-performance-raceway-to-member-track-network/): NHRA officials are pleased to announce that Motion Performance Raceway at Gimli Motorsports Park has joined the NHRA Member Track Network as part of the West Central Division (Division 5). Under new ownership, the revitalized facility, which is located in Gimli, Manitoba, Canada, has enjoyed a thrilling rebirth in 2026, recently holding a successful grand - [Holley Simplifies Fuel Injection Upgrades With New EFI Top End Kits for LS, LT, Chevy, and Ford Performance Engines](https://dragillustrated.com/holley-simplifies-fuel-injection-upgrades-with-new-efi-top-end-kits-for-ls-lt-chevy-and-ford-performance-engines/): Holley, the iconic performance brand behind industry-leading EFI, carburetion and engine-swap solutions, introduces its new Holley EFI Top End Kits, providing enthusiasts and engine builders with a complete, matched induction and fueling solution in one convenient package. Designed for LS, LT, small-block Chevy, big-block Chevy and small-block Ford engine platforms, Holley EFI Top End Kits - [Elite Motorsports Launches New Sales Division Page and Official Website](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-launches-new-sales-division-page-and-official-website/): In a move designed to better serve both racing enthusiasts and commercial customers, Elite Motorsports is expanding its online presence. Moving forward, the Elite Motorsports Facebook page will focus exclusively on its championship-winning racing operations, while a brand-new Elite Motorsports Sales Facebook page will dedicate itself entirely to the company’s premier inventory and dealership services. - [Tom Bayer's School of Drag Racing Coming to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park and Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/tom-bayers-school-of-drag-racing-coming-to-lucas-oil-indianapolis-raceway-park-and-famoso/): The weekend after the world’s biggest drag race at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Tom Bayer’s School of Drag Racing will host a special two-day licensing class in Indianapolis on Sept. 11-12. The well-renowned school, which started more than 25 years ago, will also hold a two-day licensing class at Famoso Dragstrip on Oct. 15-16 - [Spencer Hyde to Debut Outlaw Beer Funny Car in Brainerd](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-to-debut-outlaw-beer-funny-car-in-brainerd/): The NHRA Brainerd Nationals is recognized as one of the most boisterous and fan-friendly motorsports events in the country. This year Spencer Hyde and Outlaw Beer will up the ante with a specially designed Outlaw Beer Funny Car just for the race. Outlaw Beer has been riding with Hyde, the 2025 NHRA Rookie of the - [Drag Illustrated Releases Issue No. 201, The Outlaw Issue, Featuring Lil Gangstas’ Tom ‘Jimmy Dale’ Gunner and Michael Poland](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-releases-issue-no-201-the-outlaw-issue-featuring-lil-gangstas-tom-jimmy-dale-gunner-and-michael-poland/): Drag Illustrated recently announced the release of Issue No. 201, the July/August 2026 Outlaw Issue, featuring Lil Gangstas co-promoters Tom “Jimmy Dale” Gunner and Michael Poland on the cover. The new issue is available now to read for free in digital form at digital.dragillustrated.com, while print copies will begin arriving in subscriber mailboxes later this month. - [PHOTO GALLERY: Norwalk's 49th Annual Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-norwalks-49th-annual-night-under-fire/): On Saturday, August 1, tens of thousands of drag racing fans packed the grandstands at Norwalk, Ohio's Summit Motorsports Park to witness the spectacle that is the 49th annual Cornwell Quality Tools Night Under Fire. Despite a forecast that predicted a near-guaranteed rainout during the primetime show, the Bader family and its team persevered to - [Northern Nationals Delights Despite Condensed Schedule for Mid-West Drag Racing Series](https://dragillustrated.com/northern-nationals-delights-despite-condensed-schedule-for-mid-west-drag-racing-series/): The weather tried to ruin the Mid-West Drag Racing Series debut at the storied Northern Nationals at US-131 Motorsports Park, but there was just too much fun and too strong of competition to keep the MWDRS down. A rainy forecast gave organizers no option but to condense the event into one day, running two rounds - [NHRA Welcomes New Swamp Bottom Drag Strip to South Central Division](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-welcomes-new-swamp-bottom-drag-strip-to-south-central-division/): NHRA officials are excited to announce that Swamp Bottom Drag Strip, a new, state-of-the-art facility currently being built in Columbia, Miss., has joined the NHRA Member Track Network as part of the South Central Division (Division 4). The facility is currently in the development phase in Southern Mississippi and is owned by Brad and Tawanah - [PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown Brings Championship Contenders to Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown-brings-championship-contenders-to-bristol/): With championship battles tightening across the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series, racers in the professional, sportsman, and Jr. Dragster ranks will head to historic Bristol Dragway, Aug. 6-8, for the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars. The fifth of seven races on the 2026 tour comes at a pivotal - [Ron Capps Crowned "King of Nitro" in All-Ron Capps Motorsports Final Round at Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-crowned-king-of-nitro-in-all-ron-capps-motorsports-final-round-at-night-under-fire/): In a historic Top Fuel vs. Funny Car final round between Ron Capps Motorsports teammates Ron Capps and Maddi Gordon, Capps raced to victory to earn the inaugural “King of Nitro” title Saturday night at Summit Motorsports Park’s 49th annual Night Under Fire. The unique match race format featured four-car shootouts in Top Fuel and - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 434 | DRAG ILLUSTRATED | WSOPM | MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-434-drag-illustrated-wsopm-major-announcement/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 434"THE BIGGEST ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE YEAR?" THE BIGGEST. THE RICHEST. THE BADDEST. We've been keeping a secret. And let me tell you… it hasn't been easy. For months we've been making phone calls, taking meetings, putting pieces together, and working behind the scenes on what we believe is the - [Southeast Gassers Association Ready To Rock Out At The Rock For The Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-association-ready-to-rock-out-at-the-rock-for-the-bowl4life-foundation-rock-revival/): The premier gasser series in drag racing, the Southeast Gassers Association, will rock out at Rockingham Dragway for the completion of the Ram Clutches Nationals and contest The Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival, July 31-August 1. Races four and five of SEGA championship drag racing will be the highlight of a SEGA weekend offering a unique - [NHRA's 75th Anniversary Celebration Continues at Drag Racing's Biggest Event: the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/nhras-75th-anniversary-celebration-continues-at-drag-racings-biggest-event-the-cornwell-quality-tools-nhra-u-s-nationals/): As NHRA continues its yearlong 75th anniversary celebration in 2026, the spotlight turns to the world’s biggest drag race, the 72nd annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at the famed Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on Sept. 2-7. The sport’s grandest stage will feature hundreds of racers competing for drag racing glory and the - [Johnny Pluchino Representing Ross Environmental in Mountain Motor Pro Stock Shootout at Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/johnny-pluchino-representing-ross-environmental-in-mountain-motor-pro-stock-shootout-at-night-under-fire/): Johnny Pluchino will be one of the top contenders competing for the winner’s share of a $100,000 total purse in the inaugural Mountain Motor Pro Stock Shootout powered by Ross Environmental at this weekend’s 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire at Summit Motorsports Park. Though Pluchino hails from Long Island, he sees the prestigious - [Doug Herbert to Unveil "THE BEAST NextGEN" at 2026 Bonneville Speedweek](https://dragillustrated.com/doug-herbert-to-unveil-the-beast-nextgen-at-2026-bonneville-speedweek/): Multi-time NHRA Top Fuel drag racing champion Doug Herbert today announced plans to unveil his latest project, ‘THE BEAST NextGEN’ at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Wendover, Utah on Friday, July 31. While the streamliner is still under final construction, Herbert will bring it to Bonneville to gain the blessing of the Southern California Timing Association’s (SCTA) technical - [Antron Brown Ready for 49th Annual Night Under Fire at Summit Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-ready-for-49th-annual-night-under-fire-at-summit-motorsports-park/): Fresh off back-to-back semifinal finishes during the NHRA Western Swing, four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown will continue building momentum this weekend when he competes in the 49th annual Night Under Fire at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. Brown will be one of four Top Fuel drivers competing in the annual marquee - [NHRA Brainerd Nationals Set For Penultimate Race of 2026 Regular Season](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-brainerd-nationals-set-for-penultimate-race-of-2026-regular-season/): With the end of the 2026 NHRA regular season approaching, this year’s NHRA Brainerd Nationals at famed Brainerd International Raceway on Aug. 20-23, will again serve as a key stop and the penultimate event before the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs. The popular stop in Brainerd is the 13th of 20 events during the - [Bill Bader Jr. Shares Story Behind Mountain Motor Pro Stock ‘Homecoming’ at Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/bill-bader-jr-shares-story-behind-mountain-motor-pro-stock-homecoming-at-night-under-fire/): This weekend, Mountain Motor Pro Stock returns “home” to Summit Motorsports Park to compete in the inaugural Mountain Motor Pro Stock Shootout powered by Ross Environmental at the legendary 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire. The class has a rich history at the Norwalk, Ohio, facility, going back to the days when it was - [How To Watch The Single Biggest Day Of Drag Racing At Night Under Fire 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/how-to-watch-the-single-biggest-day-of-drag-racing-at-night-under-fire-2026/): For nearly five decades, the Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire has earned its reputation as the biggest single-day show in drag racing. On Saturday, Aug. 1, the legendary event returns to Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, bringing together many of the top stars from the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series alongside some of drag racing's - [Jordan Vandergriff to Represent John Force Racing at Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-to-represent-john-force-racing-at-cornwell-tools-night-under-fire/): Jordan Vandergriff and the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team will represent John Force Racing for the opportunity to earn the King of Nitro title at the 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire on July 31-Aug. 1 at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. The unique nitro racing all-star event will showcase four of - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 433 | Richard Freeman, Clay Millican, & Courtney Enders!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-433-richard-freeman-clay-millican-courtney-enders/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 433"NITRO ROYALTY, NIGHT UNDER FIRE, AND THE IHRA BOMBSHELL" THIS ONE IS ABSOLUTELY LOADED. NITRO. BIG PERSONALITIES. ONE OF THE BIGGEST EVENTS IN DRAG RACING. AND A STORY THAT HAS THE ENTIRE SPORT TALKING. We're bringing the heat this week on The Wes Buck Show. First up, Courtney Enders - [Shane Gray to Make Pro Mod Debut With Elite Motorsports / Modern Racing in 2027](https://dragillustrated.com/shane-gray-to-make-pro-mod-debut-with-elite-motorsports-modern-racing-in-2027/): Former multi-time Pro Stock national event winner Shane Gray will return to NHRA competition in 2027 driving in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Modified Series presented by Elite Motorsports. Gray, who calls North Carolina home, will make his Pro Mod debut driving the Elite Motorsports / Modern Racing / Mason Wright Racing Pro Mod entry - [Two-time, Defending Top Fuel Champion Doug Kalitta Set For Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/two-time-defending-top-fuel-champion-doug-kalitta-set-for-night-under-fire/): Doug Kalitta, the reigning and two-time NHRA Top Fuel champion, will compete in this weekend’s Night Under Fire July 31-Aug. 1 at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. The event blends elite drag racing with entertainment, creating an experience that attracts fans from across North America. The Night Under Fire features four Top Fuel - [Gordon Reaches New Personal Best Elapsed Time at the NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/gordon-reaches-new-personal-best-elapsed-time-at-the-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Maddi Gordon, the driver of the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster, is leaving Pacific Raceways with a new personal best elapsed time, made in the opening round of competition today at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals as Gordon endeavored to turn on the win light against racing legend Tony Stewart. Stewart managed to - [Hyde Shows Continued Progress as He Wraps Up the Western swing](https://dragillustrated.com/hyde-shows-continued-progress-as-he-wraps-up-the-western-swing/): Spencer Hyde and the Head Contractors & Engineers Funny Car team continued to build momentum during this weekend’s Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways, showing steady improvement throughout qualifying before an opening-round loss ended their day on Sunday. Hyde, the 2025 NHRA Rookie of the Year and the only full-time Canadian competing in - [DeJoria Achieves New Milestones in Qualifying Before Early Exit in Eliminations at NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/dejoria-achieves-new-milestones-in-qualifying-before-early-exit-in-eliminations-at-nhra-northwest-nationals/): It was a weekend of peaks and valleys for Alexis DeJoria and her Bandero Café Funny Car team at the NHRA Northwest Nationals. On Friday evening, she wowed fans at Pacific Raceways, making the best pass of Q2 to win a watch from Ben Bridge Jewelers as part of a special track promotion. On Saturday, - [Built, Not Bought: Scott Tidwell on What it Takes to Build a Successful Team](https://dragillustrated.com/built-not-bought-scott-tidwell-on-what-it-takes-to-build-a-successful-team/): The final Pro Mod qualifying session has just concluded at the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway in Concord, N.C., and Scott Tidwell is taking a much-deserved rest back at his rig. The 52-year-old team owner from Alabama has had as much success in the class as anyone in recent years, whether his Scott Tidwell - [Antron Brown Set to Inspire Scouts at 2026 Scouting America National Jamboree](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-set-to-inspire-scouts-at-2026-scouting-america-national-jamboree/): Four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown will trade the dragstrip for the mountains of West Virginia this week when he visits the 2026 Scouting America National Jamboree, where he will share his journey and encourage thousands of Scouts to chase their dreams through leadership, integrity and perseverance. As a proud Scouting America partner, - [Brian McGee Set For PDRA Pro Street Debut in Show-Quality '67 Mustang](https://dragillustrated.com/brian-mcgee-set-for-pdra-pro-street-debut-in-show-quality-67-mustang/): Longtime Pro 275 competitor Brian McGee is set to make his move into the PDRA Pro Street ranks with his stunning, show-quality 1967 Fastback Mustang. A familiar face in both the radial tire and grudge racing scenes, McGee has decided to bolt on a set of 33x10.5W slicks to his Jeff and Patrick Miller-built Mustang - [John Force Racing's Jack Beckman and Josh Hart Reach NHRA Northwest Nationals Semifinals](https://dragillustrated.com/john-force-racings-jack-beckman-and-josh-hart-reach-nhra-northwest-nationals-semifinals/): John Force Racing didn’t take home the NHRA 75th Anniversary diamond Wally winner’s trophies from the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals, but they left Pacific Raceways with momentum in a number of areas that put them in a strong position for the final two races of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series - [Jasmine Salinas Keeps Momentum Going at NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jasmine-salinas-keeps-momentum-going-at-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Fresh off a first career final-round appearance at the NHRA Sonoma Nationals, Jasmine Salinas and the Valley Services/Scrappers Racing Top Fuel team continued to make strides Sunday at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals. Racing at Pacific Raceways, Salinas ended Friday as the provisional No. 1 qualifier for the first time in her career, - [Ron Capps Staying Focused on Big Picture Following Early Exit at Seattle](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-staying-focused-on-big-picture-following-early-exit-at-seattle/): Funny Car points leader Ron Capps bowed out in the opening round of eliminations Sunday morning at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals, but he’s staying focused on the championship picture as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads into the final two races of the regular season. Capps retained his points lead - [Nitro Stars, Drag Racing’s Best Entertainers Roll Into Norwalk for Iconic Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/nitro-stars-drag-racings-best-entertainers-roll-into-norwalk-for-iconic-night-under-fire/): For the first time in its nearly 50-year history, the largest single-day show in drag racing will be available to a global audience when FloRacing streams the 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire on August 1 at Summit Motorsports Park. With the stars of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ nitro classes joining - [WSOPM Lookback: Rookie of the Year Peter Norton wins Drag Illustrated Winter Series Pro Mod championship](https://dragillustrated.com/wsopm-lookback-rookie-of-the-year-peter-norton-wins-drag-illustrated-winter-series-pro-mod-championship/): It’s a dark, rainy spring late afternoon in Franklin, Indiana, where Peter Norton and his family grow corn, soybeans, and wheat across around 7,500 acres. The Norton family has worked this ground since 1834, making Peter the seventh generation to farm in this area just south of Indianapolis. Additionally, he owns and operates a trucking - [Antron Brown Closes Out Western Swing with Semifinal Finish in Seattle](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-closes-out-western-swing-with-semifinal-finish-in-seattle/): Four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown continued to show consistent improvement throughout the weekend, highlighted by a Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge victory on Saturday before racing to the semifinals on Sunday at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways. A former Northwest Nationals champion, Brown entered the weekend looking to - [Greg Anderson Claims Seattle Win to Close Out Western Swing as the Pro Stock Points Leader](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-claims-seattle-win-to-close-out-western-swing-as-the-pro-stock-points-leader/): Pacific Raceways hosted the second of two back-to-back Western-most races for the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series this weekend, and Greg Anderson maximized his efforts to earn a 75th anniversary Diamond Wally at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort Northwest Nationals. The victory was the 115th of Anderson’s career in his 197th final round, and it - [Doug Kalitta, J.R. Todd Score Team Kalitta Double Victory in Seattle; Langdon Suffers Early exit](https://dragillustrated.com/doug-kalitta-j-r-todd-score-team-kalitta-double-victory-in-seattle-langdon-suffers-early-exit/): For just the second time in its history, Kalitta Motorsports scored a rare double victory when both Funny Car driver J.R. Todd and Top Fuel driver Doug Kalitta won the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals. The only other double win happened in March 2024, at the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla., when Todd - [Kalitta, Todd, and Anderson Race to Wins at Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-todd-and-anderson-race-to-wins-at-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Funny Car’s J.R. Todd won for the first time in 2026 on Sunday at Pacific Raceways to finish off a Kalitta Motorsports nitro sweep with teammate Doug Kalitta, defeating back-to-back world champion Austin Prock in the final round of the 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals. Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) also won the - [WSOPM Lookback: Fletcher Cox Bounces Back to Sweep Pro 10.5 Title and Event Win](https://dragillustrated.com/wsopm-lookback-fletcher-cox-bounces-back-to-sweep-pro-10-5-title-and-event-win/): Fletcher Cox came into the DI Winter Series finale, the World Series of Pro Mod, with something to prove. The Super Bowl champion’s holeshot loss at the U.S. Street Nationals – and the reaction it generated online – didn’t sit right with Cox, and he was determined to bounce back in a big way. He - [WSOPM Lookback: Russell Stone Breaks Through to Win True 10.5](https://dragillustrated.com/wsopm-lookback-russell-stone-breaks-through-to-win-true-10-5/): After reaching the True 10.5 final round at the Winter Series-opening Snowbird Outlaw Nationals, Russell Stone broke through to get the $40,000 win at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod. Driving his screw-blown “Black Widow” ’69 Camaro, Stone set low E.T. in two of the five rounds of competition on his way to - [Brown, Wilkerson, and G. Stanfield Get Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge Wins at Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/brown-wilkerson-and-g-stanfield-get-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-wins-at-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown earned his first Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge victory of the year on Saturday at Pacific Raceways, defeating Jasmine Salinas in the final round of the bonus race as part of this weekend’s 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals. Daniel Wilkerson (Funny Car) and Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) - [Richard Freeman Details His Bid to Buy the IHRA, and How It Fell Apart in Eight Days](https://dragillustrated.com/richard-freeman-details-his-bid-to-buy-the-ihra-and-how-it-fell-apart-in-eight-days/): It started, like a lot of things in drag racing, with a text message. The message landed on Wes Buck's phone earlier this month. Buck, the founder of this publication, has spent his entire life around people buying and selling racing equipment. He grew up the son of a horse trader, a father who was - [Salinas, Pedregon, and Glenn Start Strong at Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/salinas-pedregon-and-glenn-start-strong-at-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Top Fuel’s Jasmine Salinas powered to the provisional No. 1 spot on Friday at Pacific Raceways, moving closer to her first career top qualifier at the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car) and Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) are also the provisional No. 1 qualifiers in Seattle at the 12th of 20 - [Autodromo of Monterrey Back in NHRA Member Track Network as Part of Division 4](https://dragillustrated.com/autodromo-of-monterrey-back-in-nhra-member-track-network-as-part-of-division-4/): NHRA officials are excited to announce that Autodromo of Monterrey has returned to the NHRA Member Track Network in NHRA’s South Central Division (Division 4). Located in Apodaca, Nuevo León, Mexico, Autodromo of Monterrey is a popular multi-purpose facility, one that includes a standout dragstrip. Boasting a vast history and several events each year, the - [Mike Coughlin to Race Green Genie MMPS Car at Night Under Fire With Camrie Caruso Motorsports](https://dragillustrated.com/mike-coughlin-to-race-green-genie-mmps-car-at-night-under-fire-with-camrie-caruso-motorsports/): Veteran NHRA racer Mike Coughlin will pilot the Green Genie Mountain Motor Pro Stock Camaro for Camrie Caruso Motorsports at the legendary Night Under Fire event August 1 at Summit Motorsports Park. Coughlin, a longtime standout in NHRA competition, will climb behind the wheel of the fan-favorite Green Genie entry as part of one of - [IHRA Australia and New Zealand Pause Integration Into U.S.-Owned IHRA Group](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-australia-and-new-zealand-pause-integration-into-u-s-owned-ihra-group/): Ten months after it was folded into a U.S.-based ownership group, IHRA Australia and New Zealand is stepping back from the deal. In a statement issued this month, IHRA Australia and New Zealand CEO Maurice Allen confirmed the organization has halted its move into the broader IHRA corporate structure, the clearest signal yet that the - [Pruett Riding Momentum, Hagan Looking for Repeat Win in Seattle at NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/pruett-riding-momentum-hagan-looking-for-repeat-win-in-seattle-at-nhra-northwest-nationals/): The Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways, the 11th event on the 20-race Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series schedule, marks the second leg of the West Coast swing for Leah Pruett and the American Rebel Light Beer Top Fuel team and Matt Hagan and his Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny - [Daniel Wilkerson Eyes Redemption at Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals After Runner-Up Finish in Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/daniel-wilkerson-eyes-redemption-at-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals-after-runner-up-finish-in-sonoma/): Funny Car driver Daniel Wilkerson was .042 of a second away from securing his first NHRA win on Sunday in Sonoma and he will have another opportunity for redemption at this weekend’s 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways. Wilkerson drives the 12,000-horsepower Scag Power Equipment Ford Shelby Mustang for Scag - [WSOPM Lookback: Erica Enders Mixes It Up](https://dragillustrated.com/wsopm-lookback-erica-enders-mixes-it-up/): One year removed from a quarterfinal finish at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, six-time NHRA Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders arrived in Bradenton for the 2025-26 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service with both a new car and new combination. Last year, Enders piloted Scott Tidwell’s ProCharger-powered ’69 Camaro, - [Jordan Vandergriff Seeks Shot at NHRA Regular Season Funny Car Title](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-seeks-shot-at-nhra-regular-season-funny-car-title/): Jordan Vandergriff used his rookie status in the first half of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season as somewhat of a shield from outside performance expectations, but after his second win of the season last week at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway and second place in the point standings, eyes are starting to turn - [Greg Stanfield All About Momentum Heading to Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-stanfield-all-about-momentum-heading-to-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Following a second straight Sonoma victory, Pro Stock’s Greg Stanfield heads to Pacific Raceways with plenty of momentum for this weekend’s 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals. This time of year, momentum can go a long way and Stanfield has plenty of it after his victory on Sunday in Sonoma. Continuing it isn’t - [Bill Bader Jr. Pledges Support for Sportsman Racers Amid IHRA Uncertainty](https://dragillustrated.com/bill-bader-jr-pledges-support-for-sportsman-racers-amid-ihra-uncertainty/): Summit Motorsports Park President Bill Bader Jr. issued an open letter to the drag racing community this week, expressing concern for sportsman racers affected by the recent wave of International Hot Rod Association schedule changes and pledging that his team is prepared to help provide a championship destination should the IHRA be unable to complete - [Gutierrez Brothers Racing Joins M1 Concourse to Showcase New Drag Strip](https://dragillustrated.com/gutierrez-brothers-racing-joins-m1-concourse-to-showcase-new-drag-strip/): Gutierrez Brothers Racing of Berkley, Michigan has been a force in the formidable NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster field since 2012. Driver JP and his brother and car chief, Phil, are productive under pressure, and that propels JP to low 5-second elapsed times and 270 mph passes in their dragster powered by a blown alcohol screw - [Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Nationals Kicks Off With Exciting Fan-Friendly Events](https://dragillustrated.com/muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-nationals-kicks-off-with-exciting-fan-friendly-events/): With plenty of excitement for this weekend’s 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals at Pacific Raceways, race fans will have ample opportunity to meet racers leading into the event and be entertained off the track. The festivities kick off with $15,000 Mission Foods Machine Tournament at Muckleshoot Casino Resort at 1 p.m. on - [Racing John Force: Stories From the Racers Who Knew Drag Racing's Greatest Champion Set for 2027 Release](https://dragillustrated.com/racing-john-force-stories-from-the-racers-who-knew-drag-racings-greatest-champion-set-for-2027-release/): Capitalizing on the National Hot Rod Association’s (NHRA) plan to celebrate 2027 as the Year of Force, award winning motorsports PR professional and former John Force Racing Media Services Director, Elon Werner, has collected first-person accounts from over 50 NHRA drivers and significant personalities recounting their first time racing the 16-time Funny Car world champion. - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep 432 | Jasmine Salinas, Keith Haney, & Elon Werner!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-432-jasmine-salinas-keith-haney-elon-werner/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 432“NITRO, NO PREP, AND THE FUTURE OF DRAG RACING” SOME WEEKS ARE ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED. SOME WEEKS ARE ABOUT WHAT'S COMING NEXT. THIS WEEK? WE'VE GOT A LITTLE OF BOTH. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we've got a lineup that covers everything from Top Fuel to Pro - [Daniel Wilkerson Leads SCAG Racing to Final Round at NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/daniel-wilkerson-leads-scag-racing-to-final-round-at-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): Daniel Wilkerson and his SCAG Power Equipment Funny Car team turned in one of their strongest performances of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season so far on Sunday at Sonoma Raceway, driving the Ford Mustang Funny Car to a runner-up finish to lead SCAG Racing at the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals. Wilkerson - [Alexis DeJoria Remains Confident and Steadfast Despite Early Exit in Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-remains-confident-and-steadfast-despite-early-exit-in-sonoma/): Alexis DeJoria, the driver of the John Force Racing Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car, is unshaken as she leaves Sonoma Raceway, despite a first-round loss to Cruz Pedregon on Sunday at the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals. The seasoned Funny Car driver is leaving Sonoma Raceway confident that her first win of the season is - [Dylan Winefsky Continues to Improve Leaving Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/dylan-winefsky-continues-to-improve-leaving-sonoma/): Rising star Dylan Winefsky rolled into Sonoma Raceway with his Nitro Moose Funny Car team looking to continue to develop as a professional driver. The up-and-coming driver from El Mirage, Arizona, made his first appearance at the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals and through four qualifying passes he found himself just on the outside of the - [John DeFlorian Fired Up For $100K Mountain Motor Pro Stock Shootout at Norwalk’s Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/john-deflorian-fired-up-for-100k-mountain-motor-pro-stock-shootout-at-norwalks-night-under-fire/): John DeFlorian, the 2025 JHG NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock world champion, is one of the 20-plus drivers gearing up for the newly announced Mountain Motor Pro Stock Shootout powered by Ross Environmental during Summit Motorsports Park’s upcoming 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire on August 1. As announced on Tuesday, the nitro and - [MMPS Shootout Powered by Ross Environmental Brings 16-Car Field and $100,000 Guaranteed Purse to 49th Annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/mmps-shootout-powered-by-ross-environmental-brings-16-car-field-and-100000-guaranteed-purse-to-49th-annual-cornwell-tools-night-under-fire/): Summit Motorsports Park is set to ignite the night like never before. Officials have announced the addition of a premier 16-car qualified field of Mountain Motor Pro Stock powered by Ross Environmental to the 49th Annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire on Saturday, August 1. Widely regarded as one of the hottest and most exciting - [MWDRS Announces 32-Car Field for Top Dragster, Top Sportsman; Increased Payouts for Northern Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/mwdrs-announces-32-car-field-for-top-dragster-top-sportsman-increased-payouts-for-northern-nationals/): The Summit Racing Equipment Mid-West Drag Racing Series announced today that the Race Star Wheels Top Dragster Presented by UEM Pistons and Compressed Air Supercharging Top Sportsman will change to an all-run format up to 32 cars for eliminations beginning at the Northern Nationals at US 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan. This change is - [PHOTO GALLERY: Sunday at The NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-sunday-at-the-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): Three days of great weather, outstanding track preparation, and packed grandstands set the stage for a memorable weekend as the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by Power Edge wrapped up Sunday with Doug Kalitta, Jordan Vandergriff, and Greg Stanfield claiming victories in the professional categories. NHRA celebrated sellout crowds on all three days at Sonoma - [Spencer Hyde Advances to Quarterfinals With New Sponsor Magest in Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-advances-to-quarterfinals-with-new-sponsor-magest-in-sonoma/): Spencer Hyde, the driver of the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car, advanced to the quarterfinals of the uber competitive DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. He entered race day from the No. 6 qualifying position, based on a pass that was the quickest run of his 2026 season thus far. “It was great to - [SEMA MPMC Media Trade Conference Celebrates 30 Years of Driving Manufacturer-to-Media Connections](https://dragillustrated.com/sema-mpmc-media-trade-conference-celebrates-30-years-of-driving-manufacturer-to-media-connections/): The SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Media Trade Conference Feb. 2-4, 2027, in Orlando, Fla. Manufacturer registration is open now to MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members, who can lock in discounted pricing through Sept. 8 at mediatradeconference.com. For 30 - [Antron Brown Secures Strong Start to Western Swing With Semifinal Finish in Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-secures-strong-start-to-western-swing-with-semifinal-finish-in-sonoma/): Four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown and the AB Motorsports team continued to build momentum on the opening stop of the NHRA Western Swing, racing from the No. 10 qualifying position to a semifinal finish Sunday at the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge at Sonoma Raceway. The semifinal appearance proves that - [Maddi Gordon Focused on Seattle After Early Exit in Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-focused-on-seattle-after-early-exit-in-sonoma/): After nabbing her first professional win for Carlyle Tools two weeks ago in Norwalk, Ohio, Top Fuel rookie Maddi Gordon was eager to add another piece of hardware to her NHRA trophy collection. Unfortunately, tire smoke thwarted her efforts in the opening round of competition today against one of her childhood heroes, Leah Pruett, at - [Ron Capps Maintains Funny Car Points Lead Despite Sonoma Early Exit](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-maintains-funny-car-points-lead-despite-sonoma-early-exit/): Ron Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team went into Sunday eliminations at the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals with serious momentum. He entered the weekend as the most recent Funny Car winner on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour after a historic double-up win with Top Fuel teammate Maddi Gordon. Capps - [Jasmine Salinas Advances to First Career Top Fuel Final Round in Front of Home Crowd at Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/jasmine-salinas-advances-to-first-career-top-fuel-final-round-in-front-of-home-crowd-at-sonoma/): Jasmine Salinas made the most of a last-minute opportunity to add her home race, the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals, to her part-time schedule when she raced to her first career NHRA Top Fuel final round Sunday afternoon at Sonoma Raceway. The second-generation driver who grew up in nearby San Jose put on one of the - [King of Columbus Backside Battle Returns to Darana-National Trail Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/king-of-columbus-backside-battle-returns-to-darana-national-trail-raceway/): Small-tire no-prep racers from across the Midwest and beyond will converge on Darana-National Trail Raceway this Saturday, July 25, for the King of Columbus Backside Battle presented by Palmetto State Armory. The one-day event will bring competitors from the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and South to the historic Hebron, Ohio, facility, where they will race in the - [Small Tire Pro Stock Growing and Gearing Up for Return to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park](https://dragillustrated.com/small-tire-pro-stock-growing-and-gearing-up-for-return-to-lucas-oil-indianapolis-raceway-park/): In their first two events of 2026, Small Tire Pro Stock racers showed strength and steadiness with fast and fit cars that muscleto mid-7s and low 8s in the quarter-mile without the push of power-adders. Jeff Ikard jetted to the Small Tire Pro Stock winner’s circle at the Nostalgia Drag Racing League Route 66 Rockabilly - [2026 DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals: Schedule, Storylines & Live Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): RACE OVER. KALITTA, VANDERGRIFF, STANFIELD WIN SONOMA.Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Jordan Vandergriff (Funny Car) and Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) are the winners of the 38th annual DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. Kalitta beat Jasmine Salinas in the Top Fuel final for his seventh Sonoma Wally and 61st career win, Vandergriff ran down Daniel - [Greg Stanfield Takes First Win of Season After Historic All-Elite Motorsports Semifinal Sweep](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-stanfield-takes-first-win-of-season-after-historic-all-elite-motorsports-semifinal-sweep/): For the fifth consecutive time that the Pro Stock category has been contested at Sonoma Raceway, Elite Motorsports has locked down the winner’s circle with Greg Stanfield’s second consecutive victory at the facility. However, the 2026 edition of the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals will be remembered for an even greater milestone: the first, all-Elite Motorsports - [Vandergriff Stomps Sonoma Field for Second Career Funny Car Victory](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-stomps-sonoma-field-for-second-career-funny-car-victory/): Jordan Vandergriff and the John Force Racing Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car dominated the NHRA Sonoma Nationals weekend at Sonoma Raceway, earning the No. 1 qualifying spot both Friday and Saturday and then overpowering all four opponents on Sunday to pick up their second diamond Wally of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing - [Doug Kalitta Wins Second Consecutive NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/doug-kalitta-wins-second-consecutive-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): Doug Kalitta started the second half of the NHRA season much like the first half went for Kalitta Motorsports, defeating Jasmine Salinas in the Top Fuel final round and taking home his second consecutive NHRA Sonoma Nationals Wally. Kalitta’s Aflac dragster was strong from start to finish in the finals; the reigning Top Fuel champion - [Vandergriff, Kalitta, and G. Stanfield Enjoy Victories in Front of Sellout Crowd at DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-kalitta-and-g-stanfield-enjoy-victories-in-front-of-sellout-crowd-at-denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): Funny Car newcomer Jordan Vandergriff won for the second time this season for John Force Racing in front of a sellout crowd on Sunday at Sonoma Raceway, defeating Daniel Wilkerson in the final round of the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel) and Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) also won at - [Sellout Crowd Announced for DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals as Part of Huge Weekend at Sonoma Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/sellout-crowd-announced-for-denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals-as-part-of-huge-weekend-at-sonoma-raceway/): NHRA officials announced a sellout crowd on Sunday at Sonoma Raceway, capping off three straight days of sellout crowds for the fan-favorite Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. The race is the 11th of 20 events during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season and the passionate fanbase packed the standout facility all three days of the - [Gaige Herrera Dominates En Route to GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout Win](https://dragillustrated.com/gaige-herrera-dominates-en-route-to-gettrx-pro-stock-motorcycle-all-star-callout-win/): Two-time Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion Gaige Herrera put together a dominant Saturday at Sonoma Raceway, rolling to the victory over teammate Richard Gadson in the final round of the GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout. The single-day bonus race took place on Saturday after two time trial runs on Friday and Herrera was on - [Ron Capps and NAPA Funny Car Team Secure First Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge Win of the Season](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-and-napa-funny-car-team-secure-first-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-win-of-the-season/): Ron Capps, driver of the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car, skated into his first Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge win of the season on Saturday afternoon at the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals. The California native defeated Alexis DeJoria and Jack Beckman in front of packed grandstands at Sonoma Raceway to win the specialty event. The Mission #2Fast2Tasty - [Langdon, Capps, and Glenn Win Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Sonoma Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-capps-and-glenn-win-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-sonoma-raceway/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon rolled to another big Saturday in front of a capacity crowd at Sonoma Raceway, winning the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge as part of this weekend’s Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) also won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday, while Doug - [Vandergriff, Kalitta, and Vang Roll to Provisional No. 1 Spots, Get Deecell After Dark Low Qualifier Bonus at DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-kalitta-and-vang-roll-to-provisional-no-1-spots-get-deecell-after-dark-low-qualifier-bonus-at-denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): Funny Car’s Jordan Vandergriff made the quickest Funny Car run of the 2026 season on Friday in front of a huge Sonoma Raceway crowd, taking the provisional No. 1 qualifier spot for John Force Racing at the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel) and Chris Vang (Pro Stock) are also the - [Six-time World Champion Justin Lamb Honored as One of NHRA's Top 50 Sportsman Racers](https://dragillustrated.com/six-time-world-champion-justin-lamb-honored-as-one-of-nhras-top-50-sportsman-racers/): Friday evening’s festivities at the 38th annual DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals put a spotlight on some of the greatest racers of all time, including six-time Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series world champion Justin Lamb, driver of the RAD Torque Systems Super Stock Chevrolet Camaro and the LIUNA Camaro that he campaigns in Stock Eliminator. Lamb - [Vandergriff Drops the Hammer on Sonoma Funny Car Field](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-drops-the-hammer-on-sonoma-funny-car-field/): Jordan Vandergriff and the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS team made the quickest Funny Car pass of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season to capture the provisional No.1 qualifying spot during Friday night qualifying for the NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway. The John Force Racing driver ran 3.849 seconds at 332.43 - [Quarter-Max Pro Extreme Exhibition Class Added to Final Two MWDRS Events as Series Evaluates 2027 Expansion](https://dragillustrated.com/quarter-max-pro-extreme-exhibition-class-added-to-final-two-mwdrs-events-as-series-evaluates-2027-expansion/): The Summit Racing Equipment Mid-West Drag Racing Series presented by J&A Service is proud to announce the addition of the Quarter-Max Pro Extreme Exhibition Class for the final two races of the 2026 season at Tulsa Raceway Park on October 23-24, and Xtreme Raceway Park November 6-7. The new exhibition class is being introduced as - [Ty Kasper Latest Outlaw 10.5 Winner at Cecil County Dragway’s Outlaw Street Car Shootout](https://dragillustrated.com/ty-kasper-latest-outlaw-10-5-winner-at-cecil-county-dragways-outlaw-street-car-shootout/): The young guns continue to dominate the resurgence of Outlaw 10.5 at Cecil County Dragway’s monthly Strange Engineering Outlaw Street Car Shootout Series. Multi-time PDRA Pro Street winner Ty Kasper was the latest winner at the heat-delayed July edition on July 11 when he defeated 2023 PDRA Pro Street world champion Bill Riddle in the - [Cody Anderson Steps Out of the Shadow](https://dragillustrated.com/cody-anderson-steps-out-of-the-shadow/): The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Big shoes to fill. His father’s son. The clichés that had only been words on the wind are now being delivered in real time, and Cody Anderson isn’t letting them get under his skin. Historically a man of very few words and a fellow that would really - [WSOPM Lookback: Joey Martin Makes the Big Show](https://dragillustrated.com/wsopm-lookback-joey-martin-makes-the-big-show/): Since he was 15, Joey Martin has been fascinated with cars. It started out as tinkering on his own car, turned into others asking him to work on their cars, and evolved into building and driving some of the quickest Pro Mods and Pro Extreme cars in the world. But what started as a hobby - [PHOTO GALLERY: Pacific Division 7 Racers Shine at Sonoma Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-pacific-division-7-racers-shine-at-sonoma-raceway/): he NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Pacific Division 7 took center stage at Sonoma Raceway this week as competitors battled under sunny skies and temperatures in the upper 70s. Outstanding track preparation and ideal weather conditions produced competitive racing throughout eliminations on one of the premier facilities in the division. Kevin Carter of Surprise, - [Cruz Pedregon Chasing First Sonoma Funny Car Win in Nearly 30 Years to Get 2026 Season on Track](https://dragillustrated.com/cruz-pedregon-chasing-first-sonoma-funny-car-win-in-nearly-30-years-to-get-2026-season-on-track/): Two-time Funny Car world champion Cruz Pedregon has spent more than three decades competing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and will look for his first Sonoma Raceway victory in nearly 30 years at this weekend's 38th annual DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. Pedregon, a Southern California native, pilots the 12,000-horsepower - [Tony Stewart Racing Heads to Sonoma with Mobil 1, Johnson's Horsepowered Garage on Board](https://dragillustrated.com/tony-stewart-racing-heads-to-sonoma-with-mobil-1-johnsons-horsepowered-garage-on-board/): The DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Sonoma Raceway marks the start of the second half of the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series schedule for the two-car team of Tony Stewart Racing. Leah Pruett will debut her Mobil 1 Top Fuel dragster livery while Matt Hagan returns to the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Dodge//SRT Hellcat - [Aflac Renews Team Kalitta Partnership, Joins Team for NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/aflac-renews-team-kalitta-partnership-joins-team-for-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): Aflac Incorporated, a leading provider of supplemental health insurance in the United States, renewed its partnership with Kalitta Motorsports, the team announced today. The three-car Kalitta Motorsports team races in the National Hot Rod Association’s Mission Foods Drag Racing Series with races contested throughout the United States. Aflac (NYSE: AFL) will be the primary partner on two-time NHRA Top Fuel - [Steve Johnson Excited to Head to Sonoma for GETTRX NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-excited-to-head-to-sonoma-for-gettrx-nhra-pro-stock-motorcycle-all-star-callout/): Steve Johnson will continue his 40th anniversary celebration tour by making the long journey to the nation’s west coast to take part in the GETTRX NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout on Saturday, July 18, at Sonoma Raceway. Eight of the top stars in the class will be competing in this high-stakes specialty event as part of the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals. “My endorphins - [Johnny Pluchino Discusses Mountain Motor Pro Stock’s Path Forward Following IHRA Cancellation](https://dragillustrated.com/johnny-pluchino-discusses-mountain-motor-pro-stocks-path-forward-following-ihra-cancellation/): When the IHRA announced the cancellation of the remaining Outlaw Nitro Series races on July 9, Mountain Motor Pro Stock was sidelined for the umpteenth time in the category’s relatively short history. Now, participants like multi-series world champion Johnny Pluchino are working diligently to ensure the class has a future. Pluchino has been around Mountain - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep.431 | Mark Beatty, Chase Womack, & More!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-431-mark-beatty-chase-womack-more/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 431“NEW BEGINNINGS, BIG MONEY, AND PURE CHAOS” SOME WEEKS YOU CELEBRATE. SOME WEEKS YOU SHAKE YOUR HEAD. THIS WEEK? WE'RE DOING A LITTLE OF BOTH. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we've got one heck of a lineup, and there is absolutely no shortage of storylines. First up, - [Vandergriff Wants Own Sonoma Nationals Title](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-wants-own-sonoma-nationals-title/): Jordan Vandergriff has yet to turn a wheel in competition at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, but he has been part of a winning team there and is looking at the July 17-19 NHRA Sonoma Nationals as a perfect opportunity to write his name into the Northern California track’s history book while earning a second Diamond Wally - [VP Racing Fuels Acquires PRO ENERGY FUEL LIMITED](https://dragillustrated.com/vp-racing-fuels-acquires-pro-energy-fuel-limited/): VP Racing Fuels, Inc., The World Leader in Fuel Technology®, has acquired PRO ENERGY FUEL LIMITED, a supplier of aviation gasoline, racing fuels, oils, and related products. The acquisition establishes VP Racing’s European headquarters in Sligo, Ireland, with operations based in Wroclaw, Poland and Rotterdam, Netherlands, including a distribution network throughout Europe. Creating a permanent - [CHE Precision Inc. Joins Legacy Nitro Funny Car Series as Associate Sponsor](https://dragillustrated.com/che-precision-inc-joins-legacy-nitro-funny-car-series-as-associate-sponsor/): The Legacy Nitro Funny Car Series is pleased to welcome CHE Precision Inc. aboard as associate sponsor of the 11-race series showcasing nitro-burning Funny Car competition at NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series and select NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series events.CHE Precision Inc. manufactures quality valvetrain components that have continuously assisted racers in obtaining victories - [Justin Swanstrom Adds Pro Mod Classes to Swanfest Lineup](https://dragillustrated.com/justin-swanstrom-adds-pro-mod-classes-to-swanfest-lineup/): Promoter and racer Justin Swanstrom is making the most of a tough situation with the addition of Pro Mod and Extreme Pro Mod to the lineup for his Swanfest – Money In The Bank, October 1-3, at Rockingham Dragway. With the recent cancellation of the remaining IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series races, racers who competed in - [Racing Against The Clock: Immokalee Regional Raceway Makes The Most Of What Could Be Its Last Season](https://dragillustrated.com/racing-against-the-clock-immokalee-regional-raceway-makes-the-most-of-what-could-be-its-last-season/): Florida’s Immokalee Regional Raceway hosted a packed house for their most recent Winter Series at the conclusion of 2025, and it very well might be the track's last string of December events, at least at its current location. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in DI #199, the Interview Issue, in March/April 2026. Dragstrip founder - [Top Fuel's Maddi Gordon Riding High After First Win Heading To DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-maddi-gordon-riding-high-after-first-win-heading-to-denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals/): As if Maddi Gordon wouldn’t have been excited enough to race at Sonoma Raceway for this weekend’s 38th annual DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge, the Top Fuel rookie sensation has the added thrill of being the most recent event winner on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour. Of course, that was - [DI Tribute: Remembering Jason Reiss](https://dragillustrated.com/di-tribute-remembering-jason-reiss/): Jason Reiss, a drag racing journalist with a gift for both writing and photography, passed away January 22 following a lengthy and grueling battle with colorectal cancer. He was 52. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in DI #199, the Interview Issue, in March/April 2026. A Philadelphia native, Jason had a natural ability to connect - [Keith Haney Talks 10 Years of Mid-West Drag Racing Series](https://dragillustrated.com/keith-haney-talks-10-years-of-mid-west-drag-racing-series/): As the Mid-West Drag Racing Series continues its 10th season, it does so as one of the most racer-driven platforms in modern doorslammer drag racing. What began as a response to a gap in events for Midwest drivers has evolved into an organization focused on accessibility to all and a mindset that puts racers and - [Rising Star Dylan Winefsky Ready for Successful Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/rising-star-dylan-winefsky-ready-for-successful-sonoma/): Heading to the 38th annual DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals, Funny Car driver Dylan Winefsky will be looking to continue his positive trajectory in the highly competitive Funny Car class. The El Mirage, Ariz., resident has been consistently working with his father Robert on building the family-owned team into a proven quantity on the NHRA Mission - [Natural-Born Badass: Aaron Stanfield Joins Pro Mod History Books as 2026 World Series of Pro Mod Champion](https://dragillustrated.com/natural-born-badass-aaron-stanfield-joins-pro-mod-history-books-as-2026-world-series-of-pro-mod-champion/): Aaron Stanfield has just left Gainesville Raceway, home of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season opener, the AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. He’s heading home after more than two weeks on the road here in sunny Florida following a second-round exit in his Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage/Janac Brothers Racing Pro Stock Camaro out of - [Debbie O'Rourke: Built in Business, Delivering in Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/debbie-orourke-built-in-business-delivering-in-drag-racing/): Before stepping into leadership work helping shape NHRA Pro Mod in the United States, O’Rourke had already built a rare foundation in both business and racing. In Australia, she rose to Head of Consulting and Innovation for Fujitsu Oceania, building a senior executive career across consulting, IT, innovation, and strategy. At the same time, she - [Mark Beatty Joins PDRA Leadership Team](https://dragillustrated.com/mark-beatty-joins-pdra-leadership-team/): PDRA officials announced Monday, July 13, 2026, that industry veteran Mark Beatty has joined forces with the series’ leadership team. This move comes right beyond the halfway point of the 2026 season for the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series, where the next event on schedule is to be held at Bristol Dragway in - [NHRA and ARP Team Up on 'Bad Luck Program' for Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Drivers](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-and-arp-team-up-on-bad-luck-program-for-lucas-oil-drag-racing-series-drivers/): NHRA and ARP have teamed up on a unique “Bad Luck Program,” which was created to offer assistance for racers in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series who run into bad luck during a national event. The program started last month in Maryland and will continue at each NHRA national event during NHRA’s 75th anniversary - [PHOTO GALLERY: Dragstalgia Returns to Santa Pod](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-dragstalgia-returns-to-santa-pod/): Santa Pod Raceway once again turned back the clock as the 15th Dragstalgia, held June 26–28, 2026, celebrated the very best of British drag racing’s heritage. The three-day event brought the golden era roaring back to life, with the quarter mile filled with the unmistakable sights, sounds, and smells of vintage drag racing. More than - [IHRA Announces Strategic Refocus on Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-announces-strategic-refocus-on-drag-racing/): The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) regrets to announce that the remaining events of the 2026 IHRA Nitro Drag Racing Series will not be contested as originally scheduled. This was an extremely difficult decision. Following last week’s schedule update, IHRA’s management team continued evaluating the operational requirements necessary to complete the season at the level - [Deecell 'After Dark Low Qualifier' Bonus Set For Can't-Miss Night Session at Sonoma](https://dragillustrated.com/deecell-after-dark-low-qualifier-bonus-set-for-cant-miss-night-session/): Regarded as one of the most spectacular night sessions on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour, the can’t-miss night session on Friday, July 17 at Sonoma Raceway will have added incentive with the Deecell Power Systems “After Dark Low Qualifier” bonus. The bonus money will go to the low qualifiers in Top Fuel, - [AMRA Harley Drags Thunder at Beautiful U.S. 131](https://dragillustrated.com/amra-harley-drags-thunder-at-beautiful-u-s-131/): The PennGrade1 American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA) brought their Harley-Davidson drag racing show to beautiful U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan on June 27-28. Qualifying for the Michigan Nitro Nationals showed veteran teams struggling with their combinations, but the cream rose on raceday. Circle M Ranch Top Fuel No class typified the “struggle on - [More Than A Racetrack: Ohio Lawmakers Witness The Community Behind Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/more-than-a-racetrack-ohio-lawmakers-witness-the-community-behind-drag-racing/): As Ohio’s Right to Race legislation advances to the state Senate this fall, lawmakers recently had the opportunity to experience firsthand exactly what they are being asked to protect. During the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, representatives from the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) - [Rick Ware Racing’s ‘World Tour’: Team Touches 26 States, Seven Countries By Competing In 125 Races Across Seven Different Series](https://dragillustrated.com/rick-ware-racings-world-tour-team-touches-26-states-seven-countries-by-competing-in-125-races-across-seven-different-series/): With involvement in seven different racing series that touch 26 states and seven countries, the sun never sets at Rick Ware Racing (RWR). Rick Ware’s eponymous team competes on a world tour, fielding entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, HOT ROD Drag Week, Progressive American Flat Track (AFT), FIM - [Chase Womack Talks $75,000 Small Tire Victory as CW Racing Sweeps Freedom of War Final at WesTx Abilene Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/chase-womack-talks-75000-small-tire-victory-as-cw-racing-sweeps-freedom-of-war-final-at-westx-abilene-raceway/): Chase Womack has packed a career's worth of accomplishments into just over two years of drag racing, but the driver of the screw-blown "Hitman" Firebird added his biggest one yet at the Freedom of War no-prep race, July 3-4 at WesTx Abilene Raceway. Womack outlasted a stacked 48-car Small Tire field over six rounds on - [NHRA Releases First Four Dates for 2027 Schedule With Winternationals Set For Opener](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-releases-first-four-dates-for-2027-schedule-with-winternationals-set-for-opener/): A return to NHRA’s traditional schedule, the start of a season-long celebration honoring one of the NHRA’s greatest legends and four iconic events will make up the opening of the 2027 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. NHRA officials announced today that the 2027 campaign – and NHRA’s 76th season – will feature a - [GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout Returns to DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/gettrx-pro-stock-motorcycle-all-star-callout-returns-to-denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals-2/): Eight of the top stars in NHRA’s Pro Stock Motorcycle category are headed west to Sonoma Raceway to compete in the GETTRX NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout on Saturday, July 18, as part of the 38th annual DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge. The unique callout style event will pit eight top riders - [Seattle Set For High-Stakes Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/seattle-set-for-high-stakes-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals/): As the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series enters its final stretch of the regular season, the intensity continues to build during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season at the 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals, which takes place July 24-26 at Pacific Raceways. This year’s trip to the scenic Pacific Raceways will see the - [Funny Car Standout Spencer Hyde Set for Debut at Epic 49th Annual Night Under Fire](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-car-standout-spencer-hyde-set-for-debut-at-epic-49th-annual-night-under-fire/): 2025 NHRA Rookie of the Year and 2026 Funny Car championship contender Spencer Hyde will make his debut appearance at the 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire at Summit Motorsports Park, July 31-August 1. The Stratford, Ontario, Canada native will race the Head Engineering and Construction 12,000-horsepower Funny Car against some of the fiercest Funny - [Trick-Tools Racing, PowerEdge Announce Partnership for Remainder of 2026 NHRA Season](https://dragillustrated.com/trick-tools-racing-poweredge-partnership-2026-nhra/): PowerEdge, a DENSO brand, joins Chase Van Sant’s Trick-Tools Racing Pro Stock Motorcycle as an associate sponsor for the balance of the 2026 NHRA season, with primary billing at the Sonoma All-Star Callout and the Las Vegas Nationals. - [Lucky in Kentucky: Pete Kaiser Conquers ‘The Beech’ at National Hot Rod Reunion](https://dragillustrated.com/lucky-in-kentucky-pete-kaiser-conquers-the-beech-at-national-hot-rod-reunion/): Luck in the way of good weather and racing was on full display at the annual trek to Kentucky for the nostalgia drag racing extravaganza that is the National Hot Rod Reunion. After a long March Meet layover, the NHRA Heritage Top Fuel combatants were back in action, ready for battle. Despite only five AA/FDs - [Freedom of War at WesTx Abilene Raceway | 2026 Event Hub](https://dragillustrated.com/freedom-of-war-westx-abilene-raceway-2026/): Live coverage of the Freedom of War at WesTx Abilene Raceway, July 3-4, 2026. $150,000 guaranteed small-tire money off the trailer, plus True Street, Daily Driver, index racing and more. Schedule, payouts, class rules, photos and results. - [Matt Tucker, Michael Poland Dish on $150,000 Freedom of War No-Prep Shootout](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-tucker-michael-poland-freedom-of-war-no-prep-2026/): WesTx Abilene Raceway owner Matt Tucker sandblasted his track to bare concrete and hung $150,000 off the trailer. On The Wes Buck Show, Tucker and small-tire ringleader Michael Poland explained why the surface, not the checkbook, decides the Freedom of War - and teased a $1 million plan for 2027. - [Tickets On Sale For Famed 61st Annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals To Close Out 75th Anniversary Season](https://dragillustrated.com/tickets-on-sale-for-famed-61st-annual-in-n-out-burger-nhra-finals-to-close-out-75th-anniversary-season/): Tickets are now on sale for the 61st annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, as NHRA’s 75th anniversary season will come to a thrilling conclusion at legendary In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip on Nov. 12-15. World champions will be crowned on the hallowed grounds of Pomona, with title battles expected to go down to the wire at - [Angelle Sampey and Team Focused on Continued Progress After Norwalk Weekend](https://dragillustrated.com/angelle-sampey-and-team-focused-on-continued-progress-after-norwalk-weekend/): Angelle Sampey continued building experience behind the wheel of her Hangsterfer’s/FVP/Mission Foods A/Fuel dragster this weekend at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals, competing in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Top Alcohol Dragster category at Summit Motorsports Park. Despite battling a handful of tune-up challenges throughout qualifying, Sampey and the AB Accelerate/Michalek Brothers Racing - [Kirk Wolf Misses Norwalk Field In Disappointing Comeback Bid](https://dragillustrated.com/kirk-wolf-misses-norwalk-field-in-disappointing-comeback-bid/): The Dubbin Motorsports Top Alcohol Dragster team failed to qualify at Norwalk, ending a planned comeback weekend at a track where the team previously scored a win. Driver Kirk Wolf and the team encountered issues across all three qualifying sessions. In Q1, the team lost an O-ring in the barrel valve during the burnout, causing - [The WBS | Ep. 403 | Ron Capps, Maddi Gordon, Peter Norton, & Paige Coughlin!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wbs-ep-403-ron-capps-maddi-gordon-peter-norton-paige-coughlin/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 430“DOUBLE TROUBLE & THE NEXT BIG THING” SOME WEEKENDS YOU WIN. SOME WEEKENDS YOUR WHOLE TEAM WINS. AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we're talking about one of the coolest storylines in NHRA this season, and we've got the people who lived it. - [Regular Season Title Back for Second Straight Year in NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series](https://dragillustrated.com/regular-season-title-back-for-second-straight-year-in-nhra-mission-foods-drag-racing-series/): The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season hit the halfway point last weekend in Norwalk, but that also means only four races remain in the regular season. With the regular season championship back in 2026 during NHRA’s 75th anniversary campaign, there’s plenty on the line over the next four events in Sonoma (July - [High Gear Professional Drone Services and Powell Roofing Company Thrilled to be Onboard with ScottRod Racing as Associate Sponsors for the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/high-gear-professional-drone-services-and-powell-roofing-company-thrilled-to-be-onboard-with-scottrod-racing-as-associate-sponsors-for-the-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): ScottRod Racing made more progress with the 12,000-horsepower land rocket on and off the track this past weekend at the 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Norwalk Nationals. High Gear Professional Drone Services and Powell Roofing Company joined the team as associate sponsors during the race which saw driver Scott Farley and the ScottRod team qualify - [SCAG Racing Delivers Memorable Weekend in Norwalk Honoring America’s Heroes](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-racing-delivers-memorable-weekend-in-norwalk-honoring-americas-heroes/): SCAG Racing started the celebration of America’s military heroes throughout the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park while all four nitro entries proudly carried the team’s “Simply the Brave” military tribute wraps. Veterans and active-duty military members signed each race car throughout the weekend, making for a memorable event both on and - [Joe Morrison Packs Norwalk With Racing and Significant Fan Interaction](https://dragillustrated.com/joe-morrison-packs-norwalk-with-racing-and-significant-fan-interaction/): For Nitro Joe Morrison, the veteran multi-class professional drag racer, NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series national events are about on-track performance and off-track fan interaction. This past weekend at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals the Herzhauser Funny Car narrowly missed qualifying for one of the quickest Funny Car fields of the season, but - [Southeast Gassers Association’s RAM Clutches Nationals To Be Completed At The Rock Revival](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-associations-ram-clutches-nationals-to-be-completed-at-the-rock-revival/): The lights of Knoxville Dragway were burning bright. Fans were energetically clamoring for their best spot to view the on-track action. Gassers were on track, displaying the best nostalgia gasser drag racing that is The Southeast Gassers Association Championship competition. Then the rain rolled in through the little valley where the Maynardville, Tennessee, facility sits. - [Birthday Beckman Earns Runner-Up Finish at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/birthday-beckman-earns-runner-up-finish-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): Jack Beckman was seeking his career fourth Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals title to celebrate his 60th birthday on Sunday, but the PEAK SQUAD had to settle for their third runner-up finish of the season when Ron Capps beat the PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car to the finish line. John Force Racing’s Alexis DeJoria was a - [Hyde and Head Recognized as Hometown Heroes in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/hyde-and-head-recognized-as-hometown-heroes-in-norwalk/): Nitro Funny Car driver Spencer Hyde was a hometown hero this weekend at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park. Both Hyde and his legendary crew chief and team owner, Jim Head, were kept busy on and off the track. Even though they made a fierce race day attempt, the - [Alexis DeJoria Builds on Strong Qualifying Outing with Norwalk Semifinal Run](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-builds-on-strong-qualifying-outing-with-norwalk-semifinal-run/): After a standout qualifying performance at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals, Alexis DeJoria and the John Force Racing Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car team carried that momentum into a semifinal finish on race day at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. The fan-favorite driver outpaced Blake Alexander and Chad Green before - [Op-Ed: Can Jason Harris Become Pro Mod's Million Dollar Man?](https://dragillustrated.com/op-ed-can-jason-harris-become-pro-mods-million-dollar-man/): Seven months ago, no driver in Pro Modified history had ever competed for a million dollars. Since that time, Jason Harris has not only achieved that opportunity – he’s done it twice. His first chance came in December after winning the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, the first race of the 2025/26 Drag - [IHRA Announces Revised 2026 Drag Racing Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-announces-revised-2026-drag-racing-schedule/): The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced revisions to its remaining 2026 drag racing schedule as the organization continues making significant investments in its facilities and implementing key initiatives designed to strengthen the future of the series. While IHRA fully intended to return to Darana Dragway – Milan, Michigan, Empire Dragway, Darana-Heartland Motorsports Park, - [Antron Brown Charges to Final Round at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-charges-to-final-round-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): After battling through a challenging qualifying effort, four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown and the AB Motorsports team found their stride when it mattered most, racing to a runner-up finish Sunday at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park. The event carried extra significance for Brown and the Matco Tools - [Aaron Stanfield Picks Up Second Win of the Season in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/aaron-stanfield-picks-up-second-win-of-the-season-in-norwalk/): Aaron Stanfield and the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage / Melling Performance / Janac Brothers Racing team rallied to victory Sunday at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park. After a lethal display on the starting line through the weekend, including a sharp .001 reaction time in the second round, Stanfield took - [Dream Weekend For First-Time Top Fuel Winner Maddi Gordon as Ron Capps Motorsports Scores First-Ever Double-Up at Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/dream-weekend-for-first-time-top-fuel-winner-maddi-gordon-as-ron-capps-motorsports-scores-first-ever-double-up-at-norwalk/): In just her 10th career NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event, Rookie of the Year candidate Maddi Gordon became the eighth woman in NHRA history to win in Top Fuel Sunday afternoon at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. Gordon’s triumph in her Carlyle Tools Top Fuel - [2026 Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Norwalk: Schedule, Storylines & Live Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals-at-norwalk-schedule-storylines-live-coverage/): Event Hub Powered By JEGS Latest Update RACE OVER. Maddi Gordon (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock), Richard Gadson (Pro Stock Motorcycle) and Kevin Rivenbark (Pro Mod) are your 2026 Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals winners. Dallas Glenn took Saturday's GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout. Full results and photos below. Jump - [Taylor Dietsch Races to First Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Win of 2026 in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/taylor-dietsch-races-to-first-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-win-of-2026-in-norwalk/): At Summit Motorsports Park second generation drag racer Taylor Dietsch won for the first time in 2026 and captured his third Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series national event win. Dietsch took out the points leader Jonathan Allegrucci in an all-Ford Mustang Cobra Jet final and ended his three-race win streak in the process. The win - [Harvey, Scriba, Wensley Jr., Pittman and McGee Hoist ‘660 Man’ Trophies at PDRA North vs. South Shootout ](https://dragillustrated.com/harvey-scriba-wensley-jr-pittman-and-mcgee-hoist-660-man-trophies-at-pdra-north-vs-south-shootout/): Travis “The Carolina Kid” Harvey’s Pro Mod hot streak continued Saturday night when he raced to victory in WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive at the Hoosier Tire PDRA North vs. South Shootout presented by Callies Performance. Competing at his car owners’ home track, Maryland International Raceway, Harvey delivered a wire-to-wire - [2026 PDRA Hoosier North-South Shootout Presented By Callies: Storylines & Live Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-pdra-hoosier-north-south-shootout-presented-by-callies/): The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series returns to Maryland International Raceway for the Hoosier North vs. South Shootout presented by Callies, race four of seven on the 2026 tour. - [Rivenbark Opens JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Road to the Championship With Win in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/rivenbark-opens-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-road-to-the-championship-with-win-in-norwalk/): Kevin Rivenbark opened the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports Road to the Championship with a victory on Sunday at Summit Motorsports Park, knocking off Billy Banaka in the final round as part of this weekend’s Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. This weekend’s event was the seventh of 11 - [Gordon, Capps, Stanfield, and Gadson Scoop Up Wins at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/gordon-capps-stanfield-and-gadson-scoop-up-wins-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): Top Fuel rookie sensation Maddi Gordon won her first career race on Sunday at Summit Motorsports Park, defeating Antron Brown in the final round to hand Ron Capps Motorsports its first Top Fuel and Funny Car sweep with Ron Capps at the 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Richard - [John Force Racing Drivers Post Best Qualifying Runs on Saturday in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/john-force-racing-drivers-post-best-qualifying-runs-on-saturday-in-norwalk/): All four John Force Racing teams posted solid runs on Friday and Saturday at Summit Motorsports Park, but saved their best runs for day two of qualifying for the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. Josh Hart and the Speedmaster Top Fuel team got better with each session. They ran 3.966 seconds in Q1, 3.803 seconds - [Glenn Gets GETTRX All-Star Callout Victory; Langdon, Prock, and Gadson Win Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/glenn-gets-gettrx-all-star-callout-victory-langdon-prock-and-gadson-win-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-in-norwalk/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon rolled to a clean sweep on Saturday as part of a dominant day at Summit Motorsports Park, winning the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge over teammate Doug Kalitta and also qualifying No. 1 at this weekend’s 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. Dallas Glenn won the GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star - [Jason Dietsch Runs to Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown No. 1 in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/jason-dietsch-runs-to-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-no-1-in-norwalk/): Jason Dietsch drove his Mustang Cobra Jet to the top of the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown qualifying order at the Summit Racing Equipment Nationals today to secure the No. 1 qualifier position. The driver from Edgerton, Ohio, posted a blistering 7.586 seconds at 175.75 mph run on Friday night to move around Tony Scott Jr. - [McBride Scares, Brown Scores at IHRA Triple Crown at National Trail Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/mcbride-scares-brown-scores-at-ihra-triple-crown-at-national-trail-raceway/): If the 1600+ horsepower, supercharged, nitromethane-burning Top Fuel Motorcycles (TFM) and the men who ride them looked insane enough before the first IHRA Triple Crown race at Darana - National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, the insanity amped up tenfold over the June 19-20 weekend. Larry “Spiderman” McBride – probably the most experienced and successful - [Paap, Tutterow, Morgano, Pittman and McGee Top Qualifying Charts at PDRA North vs. South Shootout](https://dragillustrated.com/paap-tutterow-morgano-pittman-and-mcgee-top-qualifying-charts-at-pdra-north-vs-south-shootout/): A last-minute decision to head to Maryland International Raceway resulted in a No. 1 qualifier award for Tim Paap Friday afternoon at the Hoosier Tire PDRA North vs. South Shootout presented by Callies Performance. The Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars driver recorded a 3.653-second pass at 205.41 mph on Thursday’s - [John Force Racing Posts Strong Day One Numbers at Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/john-force-racing-posts-strong-day-one-numbers-at-norwalk/): All four John Force Racing teams took advantage of unseasonably cool temperatures to post solid qualifying runs Friday for the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals after a strong chance of rain in the Norwalk area forced NHRA officials to move up the day’s qualifying sessions by six hours. The two Friday sessions were originally scheduled - [Ron Capps Leads Provisional Qualifying at Norwalk Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-leads-provisional-qualifying-at-norwalk-nationals/): Ron Capps, driver of the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car and current Funny Car points leader in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, leapt to the top of the timing sheets on Friday afternoon at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. If the three-time Funny Car world champion remains in pole position through two - [Langdon, Capps, Anderson, and Herrera Get Provisional No. 1 Spots at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-capps-anderson-and-herrera-get-provisional-no-1-spots-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon moved closer to his third No. 1 qualifier in the past four races, taking the provisional No. 1 position on Friday at Summit Motorsports Park as part of this weekend’s 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. Ron Capps (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro - [Southeast Gassers Association Returns To Rocky Top For Only Visit In The Volunteer State](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-association-returns-to-rocky-top-for-only-visit-in-the-volunteer-state/): Drag racing’s top touring gasser series, the Southeast Gassers Association, will roll into Tennessee for the Ram Clutches Nationals at Knoxville Dragway June 26-27. Race four of the SEGA Championship season will be the only race held in the Volunteer State at the familiar and fitting Knoxville Dragway. The SEGA competitors will volunteer their machines - [2026 IHRA Triple Crown at Darana Raceway, Hebron: Schedule, Drivers, Storylines & Live Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-ihra-triple-crown-hebron-darana-raceway/): Three races. Five classes. $1 million on the line each. The 2026 IHRA Triple Crown opens at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio on June 19-20 with a 15-car Top Fuel field, 15-car Funny Car field, 18 Nitro Harleys, and a Pro Mod / Pro Stock / Mountain Motor Pro Stock card. Powered by Larry Jeffers Race Cars. - [Road to the Championship Starts in Norwalk for JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series](https://dragillustrated.com/road-to-the-championship-starts-in-norwalk-for-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series/): Derek Menholt enjoyed a tremendous regular season in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports, winning twice and taking the points lead into the Road to the Championship playoffs. But the five-race postseason starts this weekend as part of the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park, - [Greg Anderson Gets First Pick for GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-gets-first-pick-for-gettrx-pro-stock-all-star-callout-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): The Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals is always a special race for six-time Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson and this year’s trip to Summit Motorsports Park gives him a chance to add two more trophies to his extensive collection: the GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout trophy and another NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series - [Op-Ed: Jason Harris Has a Second Shot at a Million Dollars - and I Think He Can Do It](https://dragillustrated.com/op-ed-jason-harris-has-a-second-shot-at-a-million-dollars-and-i-think-he-can-do-it/): A year ago, if you’d told a Pro Mod racer he might have two legitimate shots at a million dollars inside of six months, he’d have laughed you out of the pits. Not out of disrespect. Out of disbelief. That’s just not the world we’ve lived in.Well, that’s the world Jason Harris is living in - [Schedule Adjustment for Friday Qualifying at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/schedule-adjustment-for-friday-qualifying-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals-in-norwalk/): Due to potential inclement weather on Friday evening, NHRA announced an earlier start for Friday qualifying at the 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park to ensure all professional categories complete both scheduled qualifying sessions. The revised schedule moves the first round of NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying to - [Pawuk Looks to Defend Title at Home Track, Allegrucci Aims for Fourth Consecutive Win in Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown](https://dragillustrated.com/pawuk-looks-to-defend-title-at-home-track-allegrucci-aims-for-fourth-consecutive-win-in-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown/): Two weeks ago, Ohioan Mark Pawuk, the two-time and reigning Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown world champion, showed flashes of improvement racing to the semifinals at the Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol, Tenn. This weekend Pawuk along with a host of Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge factory stock competitors will be looking to stop 2026 points leader - [Pruett and Hagan Look to Continue Winning Ways at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/pruett-and-hagan-look-to-continue-winning-ways-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): Tony Stewart Racing hits the halfway mark of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season with this weekend’s Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park (SMP). Leah Pruett and her Dodge//SRT Top Fuel team will be looking for their second win of the season while Matt Hagan and the Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny - [Top Fuel's Clay Millican Hoping Good Vibes at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals Leads to Win](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-clay-millican-hoping-good-vibes-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals-leads-to-win/): Clay Millican has a lot of stops he enjoys on the NHRA Mission Drag Series tour, including the most recent event in Bristol. This weekend’s fan-favorite 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park also qualifies as one, leaving the Top Fuel veteran equal parts hopeful and excited heading to the halfway - [SCAG Racing Brings Special Military Tribute to Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-racing-brings-special-military-tribute-to-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): SCAG Racing heads to Summit Motorsports Park for this weekend’s Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals carrying momentum, special patriotic paint schemes, and a strong history of success at one of the most anticipated events on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule. All four SCAG Racing nitro entries will debut the team’s new “Simply - [Right2Breathe® and Joe Morrison Return to Norwalk With Continued Message of Health and Awareness](https://dragillustrated.com/right2breathe-and-joe-morrison-return-to-norwalk-with-continued-message-of-health-and-awareness/): NHRA Nitro Driver Joe Morrison’s Right2Breathe® Project has once again teamed up with the highly acclaimed Cleveland Clinic as well as the NDD Medical, BluZone Health and will be located adjacent to the Kroger Health display, to present the “Put Your Lungs on the Dyno” Lung Health Screening Project at the 2026 Summit Racing Equipment - [Opinion: Mountain Motor Pro Stock Has Become IHRA's Most Exciting Class](https://dragillustrated.com/opinion-mountain-motor-pro-stock-has-become-ihras-most-exciting-class/): As recently as two years ago, the once-heralded Mountain Motor Pro Stock class looked broken and fragmented, with no clear direction on how to proceed. Many teams seemed unsure on which sanctioning body to compete in – PDRA featured eighth-mile competition as a professional class, while NHRA offered quarter-mile racing, but only at select events. - [Dubbin Motorsports Returns to Norwalk Hungry for A Diamond Wally And Another Norwalk Ice Cream Scoop](https://dragillustrated.com/dubbin-motorsports-returns-to-norwalk-hungry-for-a-diamond-wally-and-another-norwalk-ice-cream-scoop/): Dubbin Motorsports enters Norwalk looking to reestablish the performance baseline that delivered a Wally and Ice Cream Scoop at the event three seasons ago. The team has a strong history at Norwalk. In 2023, the DMP Awnings – Kentex Roofing backed team delivered a near-flawless performance at the Summit Racing Equipment Nationals, securing its first - [NHRA on FOX, NHRA Social Teams Earn Six Telly Awards for Television Video Excellence](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-on-fox-nhra-social-teams-earn-six-telly-awards-for-television-video-excellence/): The NHRA announced today that its broadcasting team has been honored with six prestigious Telly Awards, including a Gold Telly award for its Chasing Speed documentary. The six overall Telly Awards, which honor excellence in video and television across all screens, mark another stellar achievement for the broadcasting team and add to an impressive milestone - [Steve Johnson Racing Bringing Momentum into Norwalk for Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-racing-bringing-momentum-into-norwalk-for-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): Steve Johnson enters the 2026 Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals looking to build on the momentum gained from a strong qualifying effort and a semifinal finish in Bristol two weeks ago. The 12-time NHRA national event winner continues his historic 40th anniversary tour aboard his Suzuki, June 25-28, at Ohio’s spectacular Summit Motorsports Park. As the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle class - [Foundation Risk Partners Joins ScottRod Racing for Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/foundation-risk-partners-joins-scottrod-racing-for-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): ScottRod Racing is pleased to announce that Foundation Risk Partners, in conjunction with Louisville Aviation, will serve as an associate sponsor for the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio. The partnership was established through longtime supporter Mike Pratt, owner of Louisville Aviation and an MD-11 captain based in Louisville, Kentucky. Through its Louisville office, - [Plenty on the Line for Funny Car's Spencer Hyde at Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/plenty-on-the-line-for-funny-cars-spencer-hyde-at-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): If reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year Spencer Hyde had to pick a home track, the Canadian’s first choice would be Summit Motorsports Park, the site of this weekend’s fan-favorite 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. If Hyde’s tuner and team owner, Jim Head, had to select a home track, the Columbus, Ohio native - [Defending Factory Stock Champion Mark Pawuk Returns to Home Track Seeking Midseason Momentum Shift](https://dragillustrated.com/defending-factory-stock-champion-mark-pawuk-returns-to-home-track-seeking-midseason-momentum-shift/): One year ago, Mark Pawuk arrived at Summit Motorsports Park pursuing a victory that had eluded him throughout his NHRA career. After decades of racing at the famed Ohio facility, the longtime fan favorite finally captured his first NHRA national event win at his home track, a triumph that helped propel him to a second - [VizionOne Hand Cleaner Named Presenting Sponsor of Drag Race Bracket Bonanza for Norwalk Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/vizionone-hand-cleaner-named-presenting-sponsor-of-drag-race-bracket-bonanza-for-norwalk-nationals/): Drag Race Bracket Bonanza (DRBB), the free-to-play fantasy drag racing game for NHRA fans, is excited to announce that VizionOne Hand Cleaner will serve as the presenting sponsor of the game during this weekend's Norwalk Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, June 26-28. As one of the most anticipated stops on the NHRA Mission Foods - [On A Roll: J.C. Beattie Jr. Off to Career-Best Start in PDRA Pro 632 ](https://dragillustrated.com/on-a-roll-j-c-beattie-jr-off-to-career-best-start-in-pdra-pro-632/): Former NHRA sportsman racer J.C. Beattie Jr.’s venture into Pro 632 presented by Mark Williams Enterprises in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series is finally showing the rewards for the team’s hard work over the last few seasons. Beattie recently switched to a new nitrous-fed powerplant under the hood scoop in his ATI - [Antron Brown to Celebrate With Summit Racing Employees, Meet Fans Ahead of Norwalk NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-to-celebrate-with-summit-racing-employees-meet-fans-ahead-of-norwalk-nhra-nationals/): Fresh off his first victory of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown will make a special appearance at the Summit Racing Equipment Super Store in Tallmadge, Ohio, on Wednesday, June 24. Brown and the AB Motorsports team will first join Summit Racing Equipment employees - [Tatum, Lee, Harris, DeFlorian, and T. Dietsch Earn Their Opportunity for $1 Million at IHRA Triple Crown](https://dragillustrated.com/tatum-lee-harris-deflorian-and-t-dietsch-earn-their-opportunity-for-1-million-at-ihra-triple-crown/): After rain initially forced the postponement of the first IHRA Triple Crown event at Maple Grove raceway May 22-24, the sanctioning body kicked off the big-money series over the weekend at Darana - National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio with a potential $1 million up for grabs across five categories. By Saturday night, five drivers - [Red Line Oil PDRA Series Hitting Halfway Point in 2026 Season at North vs. South Shootout](https://dragillustrated.com/red-line-oil-pdra-series-hitting-halfway-point-in-2026-season-at-north-vs-south-shootout/): Racers in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series professional, sportsman, and Jr. Dragster classes are eager to get back on track this weekend at the Hoosier Tire North vs. South Shootout presented by Callies Performance, June 25-27, at Maryland International Raceway. The last stop on tour was rained out before competition began, adding - [Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals Set to Deliver Epic Weekend at Sonoma Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/denso-nhra-sonoma-nationals-set-to-deliver-epic-weekend-at-sonoma-raceway/): The Denso Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge is one of the marquee events on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour and this year’s race, which takes place July 17-19 at Sonoma Raceway, will again deliver an incredible weekend to the passionate Northern California fans. The picturesque track in the heart of scenic wine - [Antron Brown Set to Visit Matco Tools Headquarters for Annual Summer Picnic](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-set-to-visit-matco-tools-headquarters-for-annual-summer-picnic/): Following his victory at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol, four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown will travel to Matco Tools headquarters on June 23 to participate in the company's annual employee picnic. The visit continues a long-standing tradition between Brown and Matco Tools, one of the most recognizable and enduring - [Melling Engine Parts Named Engine Pro Branded Supplier Partner of the Year](https://dragillustrated.com/melling-engine-parts-named-engine-pro-branded-supplier-partner-of-the-year/): Melling Engine Parts is proud to announce it was named Engine Pro’s Branded Supplier Partner of the Year during the Engine Pro Group (EPG) Annual Meeting held in Kingsport, Tennessee, May 20-21. Representing Melling, Laura Short, Doug Smith and Karen Bewley were on hand to receive the award presented by David Garmenn, Vice President of - [Reed, Creasy Jr., Harris, DeFlorian, and T. Dietsch Earn No. 1 Qualifying Positions at IHRA Triple Crown](https://dragillustrated.com/reed-creasy-jr-harris-deflorian-and-t-dietsch-earn-no-1-qualifying-positions-at-ihra-triple-crown/): The IHRA opened its Triple Crown on Friday at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, the first of three races in the big-money series. With a potential $1 million payday on the line in five different classes – Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Mod, Mountain Motor Pro Stock, and Pro Stock – and only two qualifying - [SCAG Power Equipment Named a Preferred Partner of Brainerd International Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-power-equipment-named-a-preferred-partner-of-brainerd-international-raceway/): SCAG Power Equipment, a division of Metalcraft of Mayville, has become a Preferred Partner of Brainerd International Raceway. Fans attending races this season will see the popular “Cat’s Eye Gold” colored equipment in use throughout the facility as it is being used for upkeep on and around the dragstrip, road course, and drifting competition areas. - [Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals Loaded With Excitement at Summit Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals-loaded-with-excitement-at-summit-motorsports-park/): A star-studded weekend is back at Summit Motorsports Park on June 25-28 when the biggest names in drag racing celebrate NHRA’s 75th anniversary at the 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals Annually one of the biggest weekends on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour, the stop in Norwalk is always loaded with - [MGP Connecting Rods Steps Up to Support Small Tire Pro Stock](https://dragillustrated.com/mgp-connecting-rods-steps-up-to-support-small-tire-pro-stock/): MGP Connecting Rods, an innovative industry leader, has partnered with Small Tire Pro Stock as a class sponsor. The company, which is based in Lakewood, New Jersey and part of Race Winning Brands, specializes in billet aluminum connecting rods for a variety of domestic and import applications. Seasoned MGP Connecting Rods sales specialists ensure that - [Two Qualifying Sessions on Both Friday and Saturday Highlight Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/two-qualifying-sessions-on-both-friday-and-saturday-highlight-muckleshoot-casino-resort-nhra-northwest-nationals/): Two qualifying sessions on both Friday and Saturday return to the schedule for the upcoming 37th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals, NHRA officials announced today. As part of NHRA’s celebratory 75th anniversary season, it returns to Pacific Raceways on July 24-26 as one of the final events of the regular season in the - [Southeast Gassers Association Rumbles in Red-Hot Ringgold](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-association-rumbles-in-red-hot-ringgold/): Action at the historic Brainerd Motorsports Park was every bit as hot as the June weather with the Southeast Gassers Association’s Rumble in Ringgold, presented by Harbin’s Mechanical Services. The extreme conditions pushed SEGA competitors to the limit as they wrestled their old‑school, naturally aspirated four‑speed gassers – machines built to mirror 1960s-era drag racing - [Scrappers Racing Set for Long-Awaited Father-Daughter Debut Top Fuel Showdown at IHRA Triple Crown](https://dragillustrated.com/scrappers-racing-set-for-long-awaited-father-daughter-debut-top-fuel-showdown-at-ihra-triple-crown/): Scrappers Racing will finally have the opportunity to field two Top Fuel entries at the same event when they roll into Hebron, Ohio, this week for the first IHRA Triple Crown race at Darana National Trail Raceway. Top Fuel pilot Jasmine Salinas will welcome her father and Scrappers Racing team owner Mike Salinas back to - [Third Wave of NHRA 75th Anniversary Commemorative Tickets Features Legendary Names](https://dragillustrated.com/third-wave-of-nhra-75th-anniversary-commemorative-tickets-features-legendary-names/): Set to close out the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series regular season in style for its 75th anniversary campaign, NHRA officials announced the next group of commemorative tickets for the final four races of the regular season. The special commemorative tickets will continue to feature NHRA legends past and present at the final - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep.429 | Antron Brown, Jason Collins, Scott Tidwell, & Elon Werner!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-429-antron-brown-jason-collins-scott-tidwell-elon-werner/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 429“WALLYS, WILD RIDES, AND A THOUSAND AUTOGRAPHS” SOME WEEKS YOU GET A WINNER. SOME WEEKS YOU GET A GOOD STORY. THIS WEEK? WE GOT BOTH. AND THEN SOME. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we're diving headfirst into one of those episodes that reminds you why drag racing - [Pro Stock Stars Ready for GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout at Norwalk's Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/pro-stock-stars-ready-for-gettrx-pro-stock-all-star-callout-at-norwalks-summit-racing-equipment-nhra-nationals/): This year’s Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park will again see an extra level of excitement when the stars of the Pro Stock class face off in the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout on Saturday, June 27. The field is officially set for the unique callout-style race, pitting the - [Melanie Johnson Set to Defend Cavalcade of Stars Top Alcohol Dragster Title in Norwalk](https://dragillustrated.com/melanie-johnson-set-to-defend-cavalcade-of-stars-top-alcohol-dragster-title-in-norwalk/): Returning to the site of her first career victory, Melanie Johnson is set to defend her Top Alcohol Dragster title at this weekend’s 20th Annual Cavalcade of Stars at Summit Motorsports Park. The event marks a pivotal Central Regional stop on the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series tour. Last year, in just her sixth - [Top Fuel Motorcycles Back in Action This Weekend at First IHRA Triple Crown Event of 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuel-motorcycles-back-in-action-this-weekend-at-first-ihra-triple-crown-event-of-2026/): The insane, 1600+ horsepower Top Fuel Motorcycles (TFM) are back on track this weekend, June 19-20, at IHRA’s Triple Crown race at Darana National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio. With eight supercharged, nitromethane-burning bikes, it will be the biggest field in many, many years for these mythical beasts known as the Kings of the Sport. Larry - [Newly Crowned 'Legend of Thunder Valley' Ron Capps Charges to Semifinals at Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/newly-crowned-legend-of-thunder-valley-ron-capps-charges-to-semifinals-at-bristol/): Just days after being named the newest member of Bristol Dragway’s ‘Legends of Thunder Valley,’ Ron Capps raced to a third consecutive semifinal finish Sunday afternoon at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Capps, crew chief Dean ‘Guido’ Antonelli, and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team set low elapsed time of the event - [Strong Qualifying Run Highlights Jasmine Salinas' Return to NHRA Competition in Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/strong-qualifying-run-highlights-jasmine-salinas-return-to-nhra-competition-in-bristol/): After more than a month out of the driver’s seat, Top Fuel pilot Jasmine Salinas proved that the Valley Services Scrappers Racing team should not be taken lightly despite their part-time status in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The talented up-and-comer qualified in the top half of the competitive Top Fuel field this - [Strong Qualifying Performance in Bristol Indicates Good Things to Come for DeJoria](https://dragillustrated.com/strong-qualifying-performance-in-bristol-indicates-good-things-to-come-for-dejoria/): Alexis DeJoria, the driver of the Bandero Café Funny Car, landed the best qualifying position among her John Force Racing teammates at this weekend’s Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol, Tennessee. DeJoria, who won this event in 2021, qualified second in the category but made an early exit on race day against her - [Maddi Gordon, Carlyle Tools Top Fuel Team Work Through Challenges at Bristol With Quarterfinal Finish](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-carlyle-tools-top-fuel-team-work-through-challenges-at-bristol-with-quarterfinal-finish/): NHRA Rookie of the Year contender Maddi Gordon’s first trip to Bristol Dragway came to an end in the second round of the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals as she lost to 2025 regular season champion Tony Stewart. It was another learning experience for Gordon and the upstart Carlyle Tools Top Fuel team out - [Uncharacteristic Early exit for John Force Racing at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/uncharacteristic-early-exit-for-john-force-racing-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Rain wasn’t the only black cloud hanging over John Force Racing on Sunday at Bristol Dragway as all four of its teams were eliminated after the second round of competition in the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. The PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car team of Jack Beckman and the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny - [Perfect Light, Weekend Sweeps Highlight Summit Series Doubleheader](https://dragillustrated.com/perfect-light-weekend-sweeps-highlight-summit-series-doubleheader/): A perfect .000 reaction time and three weekend sweeps headlined the action during Summit Series Races No. 5 and No. 6 on June 13-14 at Famoso Dragstrip. Bakersfield's Krista Suydam opened the doubleheader by driving her dragster to the Summit Super Pro victory in Saturday's Race No. 5, defeating Visalia's Gerard Halle in the final - [Spencer Hyde Makes Noise by Advancing to Quarterfinals of Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-makes-noise-by-advancing-to-quarterfinals-of-thunder-valley-nationals/): Sophomore Funny Car driver Spencer Hyde, the Canadian pilot of the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car, advanced to the quarterfinals of the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals this weekend at Bristol Dragway. Hyde qualified in the top quarter of the field at the No. 4 spot, and was one of the most consistent - [2026 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals: Schedule, Storylines & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals-schedule-storylines-coverage/): Drag Illustrated's hub for the 25th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway, June 12-14, 2026. Ron Capps inducted as Legend of Thunder Valley. Aaron Stanfield adds Pro Mod double duty. The rained-out Epping TF and FC finals run Friday at Bristol. Live coverage all weekend. - [Matt Hagan Takes JHG to Winner's Circle at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-hagan-takes-jhg-to-winners-circle-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Matt Hagan and the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Dodge // SRT Hellcat Funny Car team raced to their second win of the season, 57th of his career Sunday at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway. The four-time world champion secured the victory at his home track with a 4.125-second pass at 310.91 - [Jonathan Allegrucci Scores Third Consecutive Win of Season at NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jonathan-allegrucci-scores-third-consecutive-win-of-season-at-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): For the third race in a row Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown points leader Jonathan Allegrucci raced his Ford Mustang Cobra Jet into the Super Grip Thunder Valley Nationals’ winner’s circle. Allegrucci raced a tough contingent of drivers throughout the day, culminating in a wild final round against No. 1 qualifier Raymond Nash. With the win - [Antron Brown Conquers Bristol With Stellar Weekend Performance at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-conquers-bristol-with-stellar-weekend-performance-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown raced to his first career victory at Bristol Dragway Sunday, earning his first win of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season to collect a 75th anniversary diamond Wally at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Qualifying opened with a challenging run when Brown's dragster - [Jason Collins Gets JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Win at Bristol at Race Powered by Cardinal Insurance](https://dragillustrated.com/jason-collins-gets-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-win-at-bristol-at-race-powered-by-cardinal-insurance/): On a wild day at Bristol Dragway, Jason Collins picked up his second win in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports on Sunday, defeating Mike Stavrinos in the final round to close out the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. This weekend’s event was the sixth of 11 - [Brown, Hagan, Hartford, and Herrera Roll to Wins at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/brown-hagan-hartford-and-herrera-roll-to-wins-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown won for the first time at Bristol Dragway on Sunday, defeating points leader Shawn Langdon in a thrilling final round of the 25th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also won the ninth - [Kalitta, Beckman, Hartford, and Gadson Win Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-beckman-hartford-and-gadson-win-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-bristol/): There continues to be no stopping Doug Kalitta in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, as the reigning world champion defeated Leah Pruett in the final round of the bonus race on Saturday at Bristol Dragway as part of this weekend’s 25th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) - [NHRA Announces Earlier Start for Sunday Eliminations at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-announces-earlier-start-for-sunday-eliminations-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Due to potential inclement weather, NHRA announced an earlier start for Sunday eliminations at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway. The revised schedule moves the first round of NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series eliminations to 10 a.m. ET, starting with Top Fuel and followed by Funny Car, Pro Stock and - [Pruett and Beckman Win NHRA New England Nationals on Friday in Bristol; Pruett, Hagan, Anderson, and Herrera Take Provisional No. 1 Spots at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/pruett-and-beckman-win-nhra-new-england-nationals-on-friday-in-bristol-pruett-hagan-anderson-and-herrera-take-provisional-no-1-spots-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Leah Pruett picked up her first victory since 2023, defeating points leader Shawn Langdon in the final round of the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto, which were completed Friday at Bristol Dragway. Jack Beckman also won on Friday in the Epping Funny Car final round, while Pruett, Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Greg Anderson - [Historic Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park is Next Stop for Small Tire Pro Stock](https://dragillustrated.com/historic-lucas-oil-indianapolis-raceway-park-is-next-stop-for-small-tire-pro-stock/): Small Tire Pro Stock racers are ready to line up and let it rip at their second event of the year, which is part of the Nostalgia Drag Racing League Hot Rod Nationals presented by Ray Skillman Auto Group, July 10-11, 2026 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indiana. The racers, whose engines produce - [NHRA Announces Leadership Changes in Technical and Racing Administration Departments](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-announces-leadership-changes-in-technical-and-racing-administration-departments/): NHRA officials announced today a series of strategic leadership promotions and changes within its Technical and Racing Administration departments, positioning the organization for continued success in the years ahead. As part of the changes, Ned Walliser will transition from his role as Vice President of Competition to serve as an NHRA consultant and key advisor - [JBS Equipment Pro Mod Series Hits Regular Season Finale in Bristol at Race Powered by Cardinal Insurance](https://dragillustrated.com/jbs-equipment-pro-mod-series-hits-regular-season-finale-in-bristol-at-race-powered-by-cardinal-insurance/): The regular season finale in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports takes place this weekend at Bristol Dragway as part of the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals and there is plenty on the line. Drivers are looking to secure their spot in the “Road to the Championship” - [Steve Johnson Ready to Rock in Bristol at NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-ready-to-rock-in-bristol-at-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Steve Johnson will bring his historic 40th anniversary tour to Tennessee’s iconic Bristol Dragway, June 12-14, seeking to add another Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals “Wally” to his trophy case. Pro Stock Motorcycle’s longest tenured competitor will be looking to guide his Suzuki to his first national event victory since reaching the winner’s circle at Bristol in 2023. “We still have plenty of work to do,” offered Johnson, when asked - [Australian Youth Drag Racers Ready to Take on America’s Best in the Inaugural Kanga Kids USA Junior Dragster Tour 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/australian-youth-drag-racers-ready-to-take-on-americas-best-in-the-inaugural-kanga-kids-usa-junior-dragster-tour-2026/): The future of motorsports is set to roar to life with the launch of the Kanga Kids USA Junior Dragster Tour 2026, an exciting initiative dedicated to developing the next generation of racing talent. The program will see four elite Australian junior drag racers travel to the United States to compete in the prestigious Right - [PRI, SEMA Host Maryland Lawmakers for Behind-the-Scenes Visit at NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/pri-sema-host-maryland-lawmakers-for-behind-the-scenes-visit-at-nhra-potomac-nationals/): The sights, sounds, and energy of NHRA drag racing were on full display for two Maryland lawmakers who joined representatives from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) for a behind-the-scenes visit to the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals at Maryland International Raceway. Maryland State Delegates Matthew Morgan and Kevin Hornberger spent two - [Richard Gadson and Greg Anderson Return to Bristol After Milestone Moments a Year Ago](https://dragillustrated.com/richard-gadson-and-greg-anderson-return-to-bristol-after-milestone-moments-a-year-ago/): Last year, Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Richard Gadson and Pro Stock’s Greg Anderson both enjoyed historic moments at Bristol Dragway, which puts Thunder Valley high on their favorite track lists. Returning to Bristol for this weekend’s Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, both reflected fondly on those moments heading into the race, and each was hopeful - [NHRA Announces Earlier Start for Friday Qualifying at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-announces-earlier-start-for-friday-qualifying-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Due to potential inclement weather, NHRA announced an earlier start on Friday for NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway. The revised schedule moves NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying earlier in the day, with Pro Stock Motorcycle and Pro Stock opening Friday - [Strong Exhibitor Demand Fuels Momentum for the 2026 PRI Show](https://dragillustrated.com/strong-exhibitor-demand-fuels-momentum-for-the-2026-pri-show/): Momentum across the global racing industry continues to build toward the 2026 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show, scheduled for December 10-12, 2026, at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, as exhibitors complete booth space selection and secure placement across the show floor.Following priority booth selection, more than 920 exhibitors have committed over 360,000 - [Jordan Vandergriff Faces Trifecta of Opportunity at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-faces-trifecta-of-opportunity-at-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Jordan Vandergriff may be an NHRA Funny Car rookie, but the list of opportunities for success he and his John Force Racing Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team have lined up in front of them during the June 12-14 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol (Tenn.) Dragway is something any veteran racer - [DI 30 Under 30 Honoree Austin Kardules Embraces Opportunity to Attend Lincoln Electric Welding School](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-honoree-austin-kardules-embraces-opportunity-to-attend-lincoln-electric-welding-school/): When 2025 Drag Illustrated 30 Under 30 honoree Austin Kardules’ name was drawn in the Lincoln Electric drawing during last year’s DI 30 Under 30 press conference at the PRI Show, Kardules couldn’t believe his luck. He’d grown up around talented fabricators and had recently started to explore learning how to weld. The Lincoln Electric - [NHRA and VizionOne Hand Cleaner Spotlight Nitro Crew Members With "Grunt of the Race" Award](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-and-vizionone-hand-cleaner-spotlight-nitro-crew-members-with-grunt-of-the-race-award/): NHRA Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars depend on the people who dive beneath 12,000-horsepower machines moments after a pass to prepare them for the next run. To recognize those often-overlooked crew members, NHRA and VizionOne Hand Cleaner, the Official Hand Cleaner of NHRA, are excited to announce the "Grunt of the Race" award program. - [1000 Round Win Club Releases First Licensed Product Honoring John Force and Greg Anderson](https://dragillustrated.com/1000-round-win-club-releases-first-licensed-product-honoring-john-force-and-greg-anderson/): To celebrate the one-year anniversary of 6-time Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson joining 16-time Funny Car world champion John Force in the most exclusive club in motorsports, the 1000 Round Win Club, Werner Communications, is releasing the first licensed autograph product celebrating this achievement. Signed by both Force and Anderson, this limited edition, 1 of - [1000 Round Win Club Sponsors Drag Race Bracket Bonanza in Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/1000-round-win-club-sponsors-drag-race-bracket-bonanza-in-bristol/): To commemorate the one-year anniversary of 6-time Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson’s historic 1,000th round win at the 2025 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, the 1000 Round Win Club is sponsoring Drag Race Bracket Bonanza (DRBB) for the Thunder Valley Nationals this weekend. The free-to-play bracket game that has become a weekly destination for drag racing fans across - [Southeast Gassers Ready To Rumble In Ringgold At Brainerd Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-ready-to-rumble-in-ringgold-at-brainerd-motorsports-park/): The top nostalgia gasser drag racing that is the Southeast Gassers Association will rumble at Brainerd Motorsports Park for The Rumble in Ringgold presented by Harbin’s Mechanical Services. This race was postponed from its original date due to weather and will now take place June 12-13. Even with the postponement, SEGA at Brainerd Motorsports Park - [Bristol Dragway Set for Major Friday Night to Open Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/bristol-dragway-set-for-major-friday-night-to-open-super-grip-nhra-thunder-valley-nationals/): Friday night in Thunder Valley has always been a huge highlight of the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. But there will be even more excitement – and a lot more on the line – when nitro at night comes alive in a major way this Friday at Bristol Dragway. The second round of qualifying - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 428 | Travis Harvey & Boddie Sr.!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-428-travis-harvey-boddie-sr/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 428“THE CAROLINA KID & THE KING OF SWAG” SOME GUYS CAN DRIVE. SOME GUYS CAN TALK. THIS WEEK WE GOT ONE OF EACH. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we're bringing together two guys who know how to put on a show, whether it's in the driver's seat - [Allegrucci Goes for Three in a Row at Bristol; Pawuk Looks to Get Back on Track](https://dragillustrated.com/allegrucci-goes-for-three-in-a-row-at-bristol-pawuk-looks-to-get-back-on-track/): The Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown series will roll into Bristol Dragway this weekend, June 12-14, with history on the line for points leader Jonathan Allegrucci and his Ford Mustang Cobra Jet. The driver from Scott Township, Pa., is looking to win his third consecutive race in a row in the ultra-competitive factory stock class. Through - [Ron Capps, Winningest NHRA Funny Car Driver in Bristol Dragway History, Inducted Into Legends of Thunder Valley](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-winningest-nhra-funny-car-driver-in-bristol-dragway-history-inducted-into-legends-of-thunder-valley/): Ron Capps, the winningest NHRA Funny Car driver in Bristol Dragway history, has been named the 2026 honoree for the prestigious Legends of Thunder Valley, historic Bristol Dragway’s Hall of Fame.Capps, 60, will be officially inducted into the Legends of Thunder Valley during pre-race ceremonies for the 25th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, - [NHRA's 75th Anniversary Season Heads to Bristol for 25th Thunder Valley Celebration](https://dragillustrated.com/nhras-75th-anniversary-season-heads-to-bristol-for-25th-thunder-valley-celebration/): This year marks 25 years of incredible NHRA action at scenic Bristol Dragway, as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series celebrates its 75th anniversary in style at the highly-anticipated 25th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Bristol Dragway has enjoyed an incredible history of thrilling NHRA drag racing action, and with a picturesque - [Aaron Stanfield Set for Pro Stock and Pro Mod Double Duty for Remainder of 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/aaron-stanfield-set-for-pro-stock-and-pro-mod-double-duty-for-remainder-of-2026/): Modern Racing, Inc. and Elite Motorsports announced today a permanent driver change for the ProFlow Pumping Solutions/Modern Racing/Elite Motorsports Pro Modified entry, confirming that standout driver Aaron Stanfield will take over the driver’s seat for the duration of the 2026 JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports. The transition comes - [2026 NHRA Route 66 Nationals: Results, Winners & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-nhra-route-66-nationals-results/): Storylines, schedule, track records, TV times, and full Drag Illustrated coverage of the 2026 Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK Performance at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, IL - May 14-17. - [Shakedown XXIII at M'Town: Pro Mod Field, Storylines, Schedule & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-shakedown-at-mtown-results/): Live hub for Shakedown XXIII at M'Town — MWDRS Pro Mod + FuelTech Radial Outlaws collaboration at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, May 26-30, 2026. Pro Mod field, storylines, schedule, FloRacing stream info, and every Drag Illustrated story from Martin. - [2026 NHRA Potomac Nationals: Schedule, Storylines, Results & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-nhra-potomac-nationals-results/): Your one-stop hub for the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway, May 29-31, 2026 — schedule, storylines, qualifying, winners, brackets, TV times, and every Drag Illustrated story from the weekend. - [2026 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil: The Complete Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-drag-illustrated-world-series-of-pro-mod-presented-by-red-line-oil-the-complete-coverage/): Aaron Stanfield won the $150,000 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil by just .003 seconds. Complete coverage hub from Bradenton: champion's story, every class winner, every storyline, hundreds of photos. - [2026 IHRA Pro Mod Mania at Milan Dragway: What to Watch, Schedule & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-ihra-pro-mod-mania-milan-dragway/): Drag Illustrated's hub for the 2026 IHRA Pro Mod Mania at Milan Dragway, Milan, Mich., June 5-7 - what to watch, schedule, by-the-numbers, and coverage as the weekend unfolds. - [2026 NHRA New England Nationals: Schedule, Storylines, Records & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-nhra-new-england-nationals-results/): Drag Illustrated's hub for the 13th annual NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto at New England Dragway in Epping, N.H., June 5-7 - storylines, schedule, TV, records, and full DI coverage as the weekend unfolds. - [Tire Smoke & Triumph: ANRA Spring Nationals Crown Champions](https://dragillustrated.com/tire-smoke-triumph-anra-spring-nationals-crown-champions/): Sunny skies, temperatures in the mid-80s and plenty of vintage horsepower combined for a spectacular conclusion to the ANRA Spring Nationals Sunday at Famoso Dragstrip. From smoky burnouts and wheels-up launches to parachutes blossoming at the top end, the legendary Bakersfield facility once again served as the stage for one of the West Coast's premier - [Spencer Hyde Pushes Forward in Second Race of Three-Race Stretch](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-pushes-forward-in-second-race-of-three-race-stretch/): At a race where there is strong Canadian support, the only full-time Canadian Funny Car driver, Spencer Hyde, made a strong attempt at taking home a Diamond Wally at the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto. Hyde, the driver of the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car, entered race day at New England Dragway - [Top Fuel Rookie Maddi Gordon Gains More Experience at NHRA New England Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuel-rookie-maddi-gordon-gains-more-experience-at-nhra-new-england-nationals/): Maddi Gordon experienced another first in her Top Fuel rookie campaign Sunday at the NHRA New England Nationals at New England Dragway, where the Ron Capps Motorsports driver had to pedal her Carlyle Tools dragster for the first time in competition during a second-round loss to Leah Pruett. Competing in the eighth of 20 races - [SCAG Racing Faces Early Exit in Epping at NHRA New England Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/scag-racing-faces-early-exit-in-epping-at-nhra-new-england-nationals/): SCAG Racing wrapped up the NHRA New England Nationals with a tough outing as all four cars ran into early trouble in Sunday's eliminations. After a solid effort in qualifying, the team couldn’t quite turn it into round wins, but will regroup quickly with Bristol up next. Justin Ashley qualified No. 8 in Top Fuel - [Alexis DeJoria Leaves Epping With Renewed Sense of Confidence](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-leaves-epping-with-renewed-sense-of-confidence/): While she was just inches short of advancing to the semifinals on race day at the NHRA New England Nationals, it was abundantly clear that Alexis DeJoria and the Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car team have found their rhythm, and with the Bristol, Tenn. event just days away, DeJoria appears to be on the - [All John Force Racing Funny Car Final at NHRA New England Nationals Postponed Until Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/all-john-force-racing-funny-car-final-at-nhra-new-england-nationals-postponed-until-bristol/): John Force Racing will win the Funny Car class of the NHRA New England Nationals at New England Dragway, but it will be next Friday at Bristol (Tenn.) Dragway before it’s determined whether it will be Jack Beckman and the PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car team or Jordan Vandergriff and the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS - [Antron Brown Advances to Quarterfinals at NHRA New England Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-advances-to-quarterfinals-at-nhra-new-england-nationals/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown continued to show consistency behind the wheel of the Matco Tools Eagle Experience Top Fuel dragster during the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto at New England Dragway, advancing to the quarterfinals before falling to reigning world champion Doug Kalitta. Brown opened qualifying with a solid 3.868-second - [New England Nets Momentum, Semifinals Finish for Greg Anderson and the HendrickCars.com Chevrolet](https://dragillustrated.com/new-england-nets-momentum-semifinals-finish-for-greg-anderson-and-the-hendrickcars-com-chevrolet/): The eighth of 20 races on the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour brought Greg Anderson a tidy stack of accolades and a good nudge of momentum as the 13th annual NHRA New England Nationals drew to a close. It also provided a strong springboard for the last of three consecutive events in - [Funny Car Points Leader Ron Capps Records Another Semifinal Finish at NHRA New England Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-car-points-leader-ron-capps-records-another-semifinal-finish-at-nhra-new-england-nationals/): Ron Capps continued to lead the way in the NHRA Funny Car championship chase Sunday at the NHRA New England Nationals at New England Dragway, driving the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car to his second consecutive semifinal finish. The three-time Funny Car world champion entered the eighth event of the 20-race NHRA Mission Foods Drag - [Pro Stock's Glenn Wins NHRA New England Nationals Presented by bproauto; TF, FC Finals Postponed to Bristol](https://dragillustrated.com/pro-stocks-glenn-wins-nhra-new-england-nationals-presented-by-bproauto-tf-fc-finals-postponed-to-bristol/): Pro Stock points leader Dallas Glenn picked up his third win of the season on Sunday at New England Dragway, defeating Matt Hartford in the final round of the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto. The final round in both Top Fuel and Funny Car were postponed due to weather and will be completed - [Fifth No. 1 of the Season, Second Mission #2Fast2Tasty Title in Greg Anderson's Hands at New England Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/fifth-no-1-of-the-season-second-mission-2fast2tasty-title-in-greg-andersons-hands-at-new-england-dragway/): The trip to New England Dragway has proven to be a very strong outing for Greg Anderson and the HendickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro so far this weekend, and eliminations for the 13th annual NHRA New England Nationals haven’t even begun. Anderson, driving his HendrickCars.com entry out of the 11-time championship winning KB Titan Racing stable, swept - [Vandergriff Captures First No. 1 Qualifier Award, Second Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge Victory](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-captures-first-no-1-qualifier-award-second-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-victory/): Jordan Vandergriff and the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team waited until the final run of the fourth and final qualifying session of the NHRA New England Nationals at New England Dragway to set low elapsed time and, in doing so, the Funny Car rookie captured both his first career No. 1 qualifying award - [Langdon Takes No. 1 Qualifier, Kalitta Wins Third #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at NHRA New England Nationals ](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-takes-no-1-qualifier-kalitta-wins-third-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-nhra-new-england-nationals/): The Team Kalitta Top Fuel dominance continued into Epping, N.H., this weekend when Shawn Langdon took his second-straight No. 1 qualifier, and Doug Kalitta won his third Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge of the season. The NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto is set for tomorrow; the race broadcast is scheduled for 3 p.m. - [Vandergriff, Kalitta, and Anderson Power to Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge Wins at Sold-Out New England Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/vandergriff-kalitta-and-anderson-power-to-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-wins-at-sold-out-new-england-dragway/): Funny Car newcomer Jordan Vandergriff earned his first career No. 1 qualifier on Saturday at New England Dragway and also won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in the process, rolling to a spectacular Saturday for John Force Racing in front of a sellout crowd at the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto. Doug Kalitta (Top - [Langdon, DeJoria, and Anderson Claw to Top of NHRA New England Nationals Presented by bproauto](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-dejoria-and-anderson-claw-to-top-of-nhra-new-england-nationals-presented-by-bproauto/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon continued his torrid pace under the lights on Friday at New England Dragway, rolling to the provisional No. 1 qualifier position – and claiming the No. 1 Clawifier Award presented by NAPA – at the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto. Alexis DeJoria (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson - [Recent Progress has Top Fuel's Will Smith Excited for NHRA New England Nationals Presented by bproauto](https://dragillustrated.com/recent-progress-has-top-fuels-will-smith-excited-for-nhra-new-england-nationals-presented-by-bproauto/): Jumping into a loaded Top Fuel field is never easy, but Will Smith couldn’t be more thrilled with the opportunity and he’s starting to make the most of it heading into this weekend’s 13th annual NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto at New England Dragway. This year marks the first chance at a full-time - ["Who's Laughing Now?" Austin Prock Silences Doubters With Win at NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/whos-laughing-now-austin-prock-silences-doubters-with-win-at-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): For two-time defending NHRA funny car champion Austin Prock, the final round of the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway nearly came apart before he ever fired the engine. After a routine servicing of the car following the semifinals, things appeared to unravel as the Tasca Racing team rolled their - [No. 1 Clawifier Award Presented by NAPA Returns on Friday at NHRA New England Nationals Presented by bproauto](https://dragillustrated.com/no-1-clawifier-award-presented-by-napa-returns-on-friday-at-nhra-new-england-nationals-presented-by-bproauto/): For a second straight year, nitro at night will include a special nod to the New England area on Friday at New England Dragway with the return of the “No. 1 Clawifier Award presented by NAPA” as part of this weekend’s 13th annual NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto. The award – as well - [Pruett, Hagan Ready for Second Stop of NHRA "Eastern Swing" at New England Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/pruett-hagan-ready-for-second-stop-of-nhra-eastern-swing-at-new-england-dragway/): The NHRA New England Nationals at New England Dragway marks the second of three back-to-back races of a mid-season Eastern Swing in the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season. Leah Pruett and the Dodge // SRT Hellcat Top Fuel team are on the hunt for their first win of the 2026 season while teammate - [Stevie Jackson, Killin’ Time Racing Launch KTR-U Education Courses](https://dragillustrated.com/stevie-jackson-killin-time-racing-launch-ktr-u-education-courses/): KTR Drag Racing has launched KTR-U, a tuning education program run out of the company's Thomson, Georgia, facility, with the first classes set to roll out in the coming weeks. Founder Stevie “Fast” Jackson announced the program on the latest episode of the Shake and Bake Show, with additional details to follow in the days after. - [Motorsports Engineering Symposium to Debut at 2026 PRI Show](https://dragillustrated.com/motorsports-engineering-symposium-to-debut-at-2026-pri-show/): Performance Racing Industry (PRI) will debut the PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium, a one-day program taking place Thursday, Dec. 10, during the 2026 PRI Show at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium.The program brings together race engineers, teams, manufacturers, and emerging engineering talent in a working forum focused on real-world motorsports performance and innovation. - [Napa Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals to Serve as Football Adjacent Broadcast on FOX for First Time](https://dragillustrated.com/napa-auto-parts-nhra-midwest-nationals-to-serve-as-football-adjacent-broadcast-on-fox-for-first-time/): NHRA announced today that the 15th annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway will air on FOX adjacent to a FOX football broadcast on Sunday, Oct. 4, highlighting an exciting NHRA on FOX schedule for NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. The FOX broadcast in St. Louis will mark a sixth straight - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 427 | Austin Prock & Angie Smith!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-427-austin-prock-angie-smith/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 427“HATERS SILENCED & HISTORY MADE” SOME WINS ARE BIG. SOME WINS MEAN A LITTLE MORE. AND THIS WEEK? WE GOT BOTH. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we're talking about a pair of victories that had the drag racing world buzzing all weekend long. First up, Austin Prock - [Bristol Dragway to Host PDRA Sportsman Spectacular as Part of PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown](https://dragillustrated.com/bristol-dragway-to-host-pdra-sportsman-spectacular-as-part-of-pdra-thunder-valley-throwdown/): The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series announced today that the series will host its first PDRA Sportsman Spectacular as a part of the upcoming PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown presented by Larry Jeffers Race Cars at Bristol Dragway on August 7-9. The Sportsman Spectacular will offer increased payouts for all of the PDRA’s sportsman - [MWDRS Strips Jacob McNeal Racing Team Over Blower Overdrive Infraction at Shakedown at M'Town](https://dragillustrated.com/mwdrs-strips-jacob-mcneal-racing-team-over-blower-overdrive-infraction-at-shakedown-at-mtown/): The Mid-West Drag Racing Series has stripped the Jacob McNeal Racing team of all points earned at last weekend’s Shakedown at M’Town at US 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan and placed McNeal on probation for the remainder of the 2026 season, MWDRS officials announced yesterday. The announcement came after a post-race spot check found - [Mid-West Drag Racing Series Records Fall, New Winners Crowned at Historic Shakedown at M'Town](https://dragillustrated.com/mid-west-drag-racing-series-records-fall-new-winners-crowned-at-historic-shakedown-at-mtown/): Coming into the Shakedown at M’Town, expectations were sky high, and the historic event surpassed even the stoutest forecasts as both Mid-West Drag Racing Series and world records fell left and right in one of the most stunning displays of racing anywhere in the world. The event, which was a partnership between the Fueltech Radial - [Funny Car's Chad Green Focused on More Success at NHRA New England Nationals Presented by bproauto](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-cars-chad-green-focused-on-more-success-at-nhra-new-england-nationals-presented-by-bproauto/): A strong start to the season has the chance to get even better for Funny Car’s Chad Green at this weekend’s 13th annual NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto at New England Dragway. Approaching 100 career starts in the Funny Car ranks, Green is off to the best start in his career, winning in - [Melling Engine Parts Recognized for Product Content Excellence at Auto Care Connect in Atlanta](https://dragillustrated.com/melling-engine-parts-recognized-for-product-content-excellence-at-auto-care-connect-in-atlanta/): Melling Engine Parts was recognized for excellence in product content during the 2026 Auto Care Connect event, held May 11–14 in Atlanta, Georgia. The recognition highlights Melling’s continued commitment to delivering accurate, high-quality product data that supports customers, partners and the broader automotive aftermarket. Presented in connection with the Aftermarket Content Professionals Network (ACPN), a - [OKUMA Joins Ron Capps Motorsports as Official CNC Machining Partner](https://dragillustrated.com/okuma-joins-ron-capps-motorsports-as-official-cnc-machining-partner/): Ron Capps Motorsports (RCM) announced today a new partnership with OKUMA, naming the global leader in machine tool design and manufacturing the official CNC machining partner of the championship-winning organization. While this marks the first official collaboration between RCM and OKUMA, the relationship between the two extends back to RCM team owner Ron Capps’ days driving - [New Owner Plans $50 Million Transformation of Mooresville Dragway Into Race City Motorpark & Social Club](https://dragillustrated.com/new-owner-plans-50-million-transformation-of-mooresville-dragway-into-race-city-motorpark-social-club/): Mooresville Dragway, one of North Carolina’s longest-running drag racing facilities, is set for a major transformation under new ownership. According to a report by Joe Marusak of The Charlotte Observer, new owner Matt Erich plans to redevelop the 70-year-old dragstrip into a $50 million motorsports destination called Race City Motorpark & Social Club. The project - [Huge Crowd Sees Prock, Langdon, G. Anderson, and A. Smith Win Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented By JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/huge-crowd-sees-prock-langdon-g-anderson-and-a-smith-win-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): The wait is over for back-to-back Funny Car world champion Austin Prock, as the standout won for the first time in 2026 on Sunday in front of a huge crowd at Maryland International Raceway, defeating John Force Racing’s Jack Beckman in the final round of the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS. Shawn Langdon - [Greg Anderson Takes HendrickCars.com Chevrolet to 114th Win of His Career at NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-takes-hendrickcars-com-chevrolet-to-114th-win-of-his-career-at-nhra-potomac-nationals/): The 114th victory of six-time world champion Greg Anderson’s historic career came this weekend at a facility where he had never won before. The celebration that ensued following Anderson’s triumph at Maryland International Raceway’s Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals was also packed with appreciation for the most winning driver in the history of Pro Stock. After - [Jack Beckman Grabs Runner-Up at NHRA Potomac Nationals; Jordan Vandergriff Reaches Semifinals](https://dragillustrated.com/jack-beckman-grabs-runner-up-at-nhra-potomac-nationals-jordan-vandergriff-reaches-semifinals/): Jack Beckman and John Force Racing’s PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car team qualified first and set low elapsed time of the meet in eliminations but came up short in the final round of the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals at Maryland International Raceway. Beckman, who earned his 35th No. 1 qualifier the day before and set low - [Ron Capps Strengthens Funny Car Points Lead With Semifinal Finish at NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-strengthens-funny-car-points-lead-with-semifinal-finish-at-nhra-potomac-nationals/): Three-time NHRA Funny Car world champion Ron Capps entered the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals tied for the points lead with J.R. Todd after capturing two wins in three final rounds in the first six races of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. By reaching the semifinal round Sunday at Maryland International Raceway, Capps - [Antron Brown Makes Early Exit at Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-makes-early-exit-at-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown’s weekend at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS came to an end in the opening round of eliminations Sunday at Maryland International Dragway. Brown and the Matco Tools team opened qualifying with a solid 3.950-second pass at 312.21 mph despite dropping a cylinder near the finish - [Troy Coughlin Jr. and Greg Stanfield Take Team Elite to Semifinals](https://dragillustrated.com/troy-coughlin-jr-and-greg-stanfield-take-team-elite-to-semifinals/): Wrapping up the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway on Sunday, Troy Coughlin Jr. in the JEGS Pro Stock car and Greg Stanfield in the Janac Brothers Racing Pro Stock entry led Elite Motorsports with semi-final finishes. Troy Jr. started the day from the No. 6 qualifying position and handled - [Spencer Hyde Advances to Quarterfinals at Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-advances-to-quarterfinals-at-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): Reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year Spencer Hyde continued his strong sophomore campaign in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series this weekend, advancing to the Funny Car quarterfinals at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway. Driving the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car for veteran crew chief Jim Head, - [Alexis DeJoria Continues Consistent 2026 Campaign With Strong Qualifying Performance at NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-continues-consistent-2026-campaign-with-strong-qualifying-performance-at-nhra-potomac-nationals/): Fresh off their second runner-up appearance through the first six events, Alexis DeJoria and the Bandero Café Funny Car team continued to run with the top of the class when the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series made its debut appearance at Maryland International Raceway for the NHRA Potomac Nationals. Aboard her 12,000-horsepower Chevrolet SS, - [NHRA Potomac Nationals Debut for Morrison Shows Promise for Future](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-potomac-nationals-debut-for-morrison-shows-promise-for-future/): Racing in a Nitro Funny Car for the first time on the NHRA tour this season, “Nitro” Joe Morrison and the Herzhauser Funny Car acquitted themselves with a solid outing at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals. The veteran driver drove the Herzhauser Funny Car to the No. 16 qualifier position. The team came into Maryland - [Strong Run Ends in Narrow First-Round Defeat for Angelle Sampey](https://dragillustrated.com/strong-run-ends-in-narrow-first-round-defeat-for-angelle-sampey/): Angelle Sampey continued to build momentum in her Top Alcohol Dragster career at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS, overcoming a challenging start to qualifying before narrowly missing a first-round victory at Maryland International Dragway. Driving the Hangsterfer’s/FVP A/Fuel Dragster for Michalek Brothers Racing, Sampey and her team faced a challenging start to - [Maddi Gordon Shows Consistency at Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-shows-consistency-at-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals/): Maddi Gordon continued to gain experience at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals, where she lost a close opening-round race Sunday morning at Maryland International Raceway. The NHRA Rookie of the Year contender made a string of consistent passes across qualifying and eliminations, giving her confidence in her Rob Flynn and Troy Fasching-tuned Carlyle Tools Top - [PHOTO GALLERY: Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals at MIR](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals-at-mir/): The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series made its first appearance at Maryland International Raceway over the weekend, bringing Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle to one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most established drag racing venues for the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS. DI contributing photographer Larry Brown was on - [Orlando Speed World Launches $300k Import Series With FuelTech Xtreme Class as Centerpiece](https://dragillustrated.com/orlando-speed-world-launches-300k-import-series-with-fueltech-xtreme-class-as-centerpiece/): Orlando Speed World Dragway is putting more than $300,000 on the line for the world's fastest sport compact cars. The Central Florida facility announced the OSW Import Championship Series presented by GRS-Motorsports this week, a four-race championship chase spanning September 2026 through February 2027. The headline act is the FuelTech Xtreme Class – the quickest, - [PHOTO GALLERY: 2026 Ronnie Buff Memorial Featuring King of The South](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-2026-ronnie-buff-memorial-featuring-king-of-the-south/): The 9th annual Ronnie Buff Memorial featuring King of the South at Shadyside Dragway took place once again over Memorial Day Weekend in what has arguably become the biggest 28x10.5 small-tire shootout in the country. Despite constant rain showers cancelling Saturday’s schedule, King of the South delivered an incredible two rounds of action on Sunday - [Darth Vader Strikes Back as Locked-In Series Round 2 Delivers at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/darth-vader-strikes-back-as-locked-in-series-round-2-delivers-at-famoso/): If there was any doubt that the Locked-In Series has become one of the West Coast's must-see heads-up racing programs, Round 2 at Famoso Dragstrip put those questions to rest. Under near-perfect weather conditions and on a well-prepared racing surface that stayed glued up throughout the event, racers delivered a full day of hard-fought battles - [Prock, Langdon, A. Stanfield, and A. Smith Get Wins in Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Maryland International Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/prock-langdon-a-stanfield-and-a-smith-get-wins-in-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-maryland-international-raceway/): After a rocky start to the season, reigning Funny Car world champion Austin Prock earned his first victory of the year when he won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday at Maryland International Raceway. With momentum on his side, he is looking to claim his first win of 2026 at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals - [Greg Anderson, Most Winning Driver in Pro Stock, Set to Chase First NHRA Potomac Nationals Trophy](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-most-winning-driver-in-pro-stock-set-to-chase-first-nhra-potomac-nationals-trophy/): With 113 Pro Stock trophies in the case, six-time world champion Greg Anderson has claimed more than any other driver in the history of the class. From Anderson's perspective, though, there is plenty more work to be done. On Sunday at the Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals, the driver of the HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro plans to - [Jack Beckman, PEAK Squad Capture Second Consecutive No. 1 Qualifier](https://dragillustrated.com/jack-beckman-peak-squad-capture-second-consecutive-no-1-qualifier/): Jack Beckman and the PEAK Chevrolet SS Funny Car team earned their second consecutive No. 1 qualifying spot of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and John Force Racing’s other three teams all earned lane choice for the first round of eliminations in Sunday’s inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at - [Sellout Crowd at Debut NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented By JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/sellout-crowd-at-debut-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): NHRA officials announced a sellout on Saturday for its debut at Maryland International Raceway for the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS. The race marked the second visit to four new facilities during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. Fans packed the grandstands of Maryland International Raceway at the seventh event of the 2026 NHRA season - [Langdon, Pedregon, G. Anderson, and A. Smith Open Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS in Top Spots](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-pedregon-g-anderson-and-a-smith-open-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs-in-top-spots/): Coming off back-to-back Top Fuel wins, points leader Shawn Langdon made the quickest run on Friday in NHRA’s debut at Maryland International Raceway, powering to the provisional No. 1 position at the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Angie Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are also - [Eric LaFerriere and Duy Bui Astound the World with Six-Cylinder Power, Break Xtreme Import Records](https://dragillustrated.com/eric-laferriere-and-duy-bui-astound-the-world-with-six-cylinder-power-break-xtreme-import-records/): Eric LaFerriere and Duy Bui have dominated six-cylinder performance standards on 275mm rear tires for several seasons, but the duo shocked the sport with three amazing blasts from their seldom-seen 2020 Lexus LC500 in outlaw doorslammer trim which culminated in a staggering 5.448-second, 266.11 mph quarter-mile attempt using Toyota 2JZ power, which obliterated every six-cylinder - [Paige Coughlin Fulfilling Her Dream, Competing in Pro Mod this Weekend at Shakedown at M'Town](https://dragillustrated.com/paige-coughlin-fulfilling-her-dream-competing-in-pro-mod-this-weekend-at-shakedown-at-mtown/): Paige Coughlin has spent years forging her own path in drag racing, a sport synonymous with her family’s name. But this weekend at US 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan, Coughlin is fulfilling a lifelong dream – competing in Pro Mod – at the Shakedown at M’Town with the Mid-West Drag Racing Series. Coughlin grew - [PSM's Kelly Clontz Eager to Show Off Home Track at NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/psms-kelly-clontz-eager-to-show-off-home-track-at-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): This weekend marks a special opportunity for Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Kelly Clontz and she’s determined to make the most of it as the NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series makes its debut at Maryland International Raceway for the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS. Clontz, a Hughesville, Md. native, got her racing start at the - [Andy Robinson Finds Success at FIA Main Event at Santa Pod Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/andy-robinson-finds-success-at-fia-main-event-at-santa-pod-raceway/): Andy Robinson and the Anger Management Pro Mod team, fresh off the heels of a successful weekend at the Doorslammers event, scored yet another final-round appearance at the recent FIA Main Event, at Santa Pod Raceway. The event started with a race within a race, the Carl Cox Motorsport series. This is a 5.90 index, - [NHRA Legends of Drag Racing Mobile Game Now Available](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-legends-of-drag-racing-mobile-game-now-available/): NHRA, in collaboration with Concrete Software and Trailmark Games, announced the release of the “NHRA Legends of Drag Racing” mobile game, which is available now and for free on iOS and Android. Built on 75 years of NHRA’s illustrious drag racing history, the game is built for race fans and gamers, focusing on the incredible - ["From the Outhouse to the Penthouse:" Keith Haney Discusses Impressive Showing at PDRA East Coast Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/from-the-outhouse-to-the-penthouse-keith-haney-discusses-impressive-showing-at-pdra-east-coast-nationals/): As Keith Haney pulled his Jerry Bickel Race Cars-built, Pat Musi-powered “Black Widow” C7 Corvette into the waterbox alongside Tommy Franklin for the final round of Pro Nitrous at the Summit Racing Equipment PDRA East Coast Nationals presented by FuelTech, he knew he wasn’t supposed to be here. Not just the final round – he wasn’t - [LaSala Walks Away: Snot Rocket Exits Radial Outlaws Over Mid-Season Rule Change](https://dragillustrated.com/lasala-walks-away-snot-rocket-exits-radial-outlaws-over-mid-season-rule-change/): Brett LaSala is done with the FuelTech Radial Outlaws Racing Series. Less than a week after re-setting the Limited Drag Radial class record with a 3.762 and taking the win at Bama Outlaws in Steele, Alabama, the driver of the Coyote-powered Snot Rocket Mustang announced he’s pulling his program from the series – not over - [MWDRS Discontinues J&A Service Funny Car Class](https://dragillustrated.com/mwdrs-discontinues-ja-service-funny-car-class/): The Summit Racing Equipment Mid-West Drag Racing Series presented by J&A Service has announced that Funny Car will no longer be part of the MWDRS lineup, ending a run of more than five years for the J&A Service-backed class. Series founder Keith Haney announced the decision in a statement, thanking Jim and Annie Whiteley of - [Ellington, Chitty, Laughter, and Cunningham Claim Wins at MWDRS Season Opener in Tulsa](https://dragillustrated.com/ellington-chitty-laughter-and-cunningham-claim-wins-at-mwdrs-season-opener-in-tulsa/): The Throwdown in T-Town lived up to the hype as the “Baddest Race on The Mother Road” as the stars and cars of the Summit Racing Equipment Midwest Drag Racing Series did battle at Tulsa Raceway Park May 8-9 for the season opener of their historic 10th season. The event started out on Thursday with - [Mid-West Drag Racing Series Combines June and October Flying H Events Into One Double-Race Weekend](https://dragillustrated.com/mid-west-drag-racing-series-combines-june-and-october-flying-h-events-into-one-double-race-weekend/): The Mid-West Drag Racing Series is collapsing two of its 2026 Flying H Drag Strip dates into a single weekend, turning what had been the June and October Smack Down stops into a four-day double-header September 24-27 - two complete, separately scored races run back-to-back with their own purses, their own qualifying, and their own - [The WBS | Justin 'Danger' Nunley, Nooo Waaay Guy, Chevy Reeves, Billy The Kid, Keith Haney, & Duck!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wbs-justin-danger-nunley-nooo-waaay-guy-chevy-reeves-billy-the-kid-keith-haney-duck/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 426“SHAKEDOWNS, BORDER WARS, AND FULL-BLOWN CHAOS” THIS WEEK WE’RE TAKIN’ THE TRAIN STRAIGHT OFF THE TRACK. BIG EVENTS.BIG PERSONALITIES.AND ZERO CHANCE THIS THING STAYS UNDER CONTROL. First up, we’re kicking things off with Keith Haney and the one and only Donald “Duck” Long as they gear up for Shakedown - [JEGS Named Presenting Sponsor for NHRA Debut at Maryland International Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/jegs-named-presenting-sponsor-for-nhra-debut-at-maryland-international-raceway/): NHRA officials announced today that JEGS, a DTC, e-commerce retailer and distributor of high-performance automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, has been named the presenting sponsor for the first-ever event at Maryland International Raceway in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS takes place May 29-31 at the - [Visit St. Mary's MD and NHRA Set for Fan Fest Ahead of Maryland International Raceway Debut](https://dragillustrated.com/visit-st-marys-md-and-nhra-set-for-fan-fest-ahead-of-maryland-international-raceway-debut/): To celebrate NHRA’s thrilling debut at Maryland International Raceway for next weekend’s inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS, Visit St. Mary’s MD, the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development and NHRA have partnered together for a driver meet and greet featuring a huge lineup of NHRA stars. The free, can’t-miss event will take - [Antron Brown Brings Momentum to Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-brings-momentum-to-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): The inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS marks the second of four new events on the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour, and Top Fuel veteran and four-time world champ Antron Brown is ready to take on a new track this weekend at Maryland International Raceway. Brown finished runner-up two weeks ago - [Maryland International Raceway’s Royce Miller Discusses Preparation For NHRA Potomac Nationals ](https://dragillustrated.com/maryland-international-raceways-royce-miller-discusses-preparation-for-nhra-potomac-nationals/): As the NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary this season, fans can expect to see plenty of familiar and even nostalgic elements – the return of legends, the celebration of the people and moments that made NHRA history, and even official uniforms that harken back to the “glory days” of the sport. But the NHRA Mission - ["Nitro" Joe Morrison Ready to Race at Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/nitro-joe-morrison-ready-to-race-at-potomac-nationals/): For veteran Top Fuel and Funny Car driver “Nitro” Joe Morrison the start to the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season has been fast and not so furious. The part-time racer has been working extensively with his Right2Breathe® Project and while that program continues to grow and change lives his opportunities to race - [Alexis DeJoria Heats Up Performance as Summer Nears Heading Into Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-heats-up-performance-as-summer-nears-heading-into-inaugural-nhra-potomac-nationals/): As the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series marches toward the heat of summer, Alexis DeJoria and John Force Racing’s Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car team have turned up wick on their recent performances leading into the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS at Maryland International Raceway on May 29-31. With a - [Steve Johnson Eager to Bring NHRA Drag Racing to Maryland International Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-eager-to-bring-nhra-drag-racing-to-maryland-international-raceway/): Steve Johnson will continue to celebrate his historic 40th year of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle competition by bringing his 200-mph Suzuki to Maryland International Raceway, May 29-31, for the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals. It’s the second time this month that the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series makes its spectacular debut at a new racing facility during their 75th anniversary Nitro tour. Johnson will be looking to add - [Pruett Looks to Maintain Consistency, Hagan Aiming for Points Lead at NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS](https://dragillustrated.com/pruett-looks-to-maintain-consistency-hagan-aiming-for-points-lead-at-nhra-potomac-nationals-presented-by-jegs/): Entering a three-race swing, Leah Pruett’s Rinnai Top Fuel dragster and Matt Hagan’s American Rebel Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car teams head to Maryland International Raceway just outside of Washington D.C. for the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS. For Leah Pruett, the seventh of 20 races on the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series - [Southeast Gassers Association Postpones The Rumble in Ringgold to June 12-13 at Brainerd Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-association-postpones-the-rumble-in-ringgold-to-june-12-13-at-brainerd-motorsports-park/): The Southeast Gassers Association Rumble in Ringgold presented by Harbin’s Mechanical Services, the third race in the championship season originally scheduled for May 30, will not rumble with the roar of SEGA power as scheduled. Instead, due to an increasingly unfavorable forecast, Brainerd Motorsports Park and SEGA officials have made the decision to postpone the event.“It’s - [VizionOne Hand Cleaner Named Official Hand Cleaner of NHRA](https://dragillustrated.com/vizionone-hand-cleaner-named-official-hand-cleaner-of-nhra/): NHRA officials announced today that VizionOne Hand Cleaner has been named the Official Hand Cleaner of NHRA, launching a multi-year partnership focused on the mechanics, crew members, and racers whose hands help power one of the most demanding forms of motorsports. Owned by veteran racer and businessman Rodger Brogdon, VizionOne was created by Texas emergency - [Drag Illustrated Releases Milestone Issue 200, The WSOPM Issue, Featuring Aaron Stanfield on Cover](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-releases-milestone-issue-200-the-wsopm-issue-featuring-aaron-stanfield-on-cover/): Drag Illustrated has released Issue 200, the World Series of Pro Mod Issue, marking a major milestone for the magazine while celebrating Aaron Stanfield’s $150,000 victory at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil. The May/June 2026 issue is now available to read for free in digital format at digital.dragillustrated.com, - [IHRA Announces Triple Crown x2 Event at Darana Raceway Maple Grove Park](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-announces-triple-crown-x2-event-at-darana-raceway-maple-grove-park/): The International Hot Rod Association announced today that the 2026 IHRA Triple Crown Finale, originally scheduled for Darana Memphis Motorsports Park, has been moved to historic Darana Raceway Maple Grove Park, creating the Triple Crown x2 doubleheader weekend at one of drag racing’s premier facilities. As much as the IHRA wanted to return to Darana - [Bradshaw, Duche, Pirrone, Hill, and Loftin Score Event Wins at Inaugural Chaos Supernationals](https://dragillustrated.com/bradshaw-duche-pirrone-hill-and-loftin-score-event-wins-at-inaugural-chaos-supernationals/): The Inaugural CHAOS Supernationals was held over Memorial Day weekend at the prestigious Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. This marked the first time for the Chaos brand to roll through the historic gates of Summit Motorsports Park and despite an unfavorable forecast, the Chaos teams packed the pits with full fields in both Funny - [Drag Illustrated Launches the DI Power 100, Recognizing the 100 Most Influential People in Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-launches-the-di-power-100-recognizing-the-100-most-influential-people-in-drag-racing/): Drag Illustrated, the independent voice of drag racing, today announced the launch of the DI Power 100, an annual editorial franchise recognizing the 100 most influential people in the sport. Nominations are open immediately at DragIllustrated.com and will be accepted through July 3, 2026. The DI Power 100 is the most comprehensive recognition program in - [SEMA Announces 2026 Hall of Fame Class](https://dragillustrated.com/sema-announces-2026-hall-of-fame-class/): The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) today announced its Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing four industry icons who have influenced and inspired the $52.6 billion automotive specialty equipment industry. The Hall of Fame inductees are Doug Dwyer, Jay Leno, Ellen McKoy, and Dennis Overholser. The esteemed group will be recognized as part of - [Jeff Ikard Races to His First Small Tire Pro Stock Victory at World Wide Technology Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/jeff-ikard-races-to-his-first-small-tire-pro-stock-victory-at-world-wide-technology-raceway/): Despite a dreary forecast, dedicated and determined Small Tire Pro Stock racers showed up for the Nostalgia Drag Racing League Route 66 Rockabilly Reunion, May 22-23 at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. It was the first event of the year for the series for racers who run their cars with naturally aspirated combinations - [Mopar and Dodge Named Title and Powered By Sponsors of NHRA's Countdown Race in Las Vegas](https://dragillustrated.com/mopar-and-dodge-named-title-and-powered-by-sponsors-of-nhras-countdown-race-in-las-vegas/): NHRA officials announced today that Mopar and Dodge have been named the title and powered by sponsors of the annual fall race at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The 26th annual NHRA Las Vegas Nationals event again serves as the penultimate event of the 20-race season during NHRA’s 75th anniversary campaign. The Mopar - [DI to DC: SEMA & PRI Rally Brings Drag Racing Leadership to Capitol Hill  ](https://dragillustrated.com/di-to-dc-sema-pri-rally-brings-drag-racing-leadership-to-capitol-hill/): Earlier this month, Drag Illustrated’s own Wes Buck and Mike Carpenter traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the annual Washington Rally hosted by the Government Affairs divisions of Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI). The duo met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to “spread the gospel of drag racing,” as - [PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown Cancelled Due to Weather](https://dragillustrated.com/pdra-mid-atlantic-showdown-cancelled-due-to-weather/): Due to persistent rain and mist, as well as more inclement weather in the forecast, Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series officials have cancelled the PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown presented by Classic Graphix, May 21-23, at Virginia Motorsports Park. The event will not be rescheduled. The Mid-Atlantic Showdown was the third of seven races on - [Justin Ashley is in a League of His Own](https://dragillustrated.com/unconscious-justin-ashley-is-in-a-league-of-his-own/): On a Saturday afternoon in April 2026 at the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Justin Ashley sat in the cockpit of his 12,000-horsepower SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel dragster and did the same thing three rounds in a row. He left with an .025 light. Round one. Round two. Round three. He cut a - [Stampede of Speed Takes Off With Blockbuster Stars of Texas Music Festival Line-Up and NHRA Championship Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/stampede-of-speed-takes-off-with-blockbuster-stars-of-texas-music-festival-line-up-and-nhra-championship-drag-racing/): Tickets for the Stampede of Speed including the Stars of Texas Music Festival and the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals are on sale now. The sixth annual Stampede of Speed, the 10-day family-friendly Texas themed country music festival and NHRA Countdown event, will bring some of the biggest names in music and racing to the Texas - [Small Tire Pro Stock Welcomes Sporthorse Saddlery as Sponsor](https://dragillustrated.com/small-tire-pro-stock-welcomes-sporthorse-saddlery-as-sponsor/): Established in 2004, Sporthorse Saddlery is located at 56849 Grand River Avenue in New Hudson, Michigan, and owned and operated by Anna Rebori-Theisen, whose husband, David Theisen, competes in Small Tire Pro Stock. The well-known equestrian tack shop serves riders across multiple disciplines with a strong focus on the dressage and hunter/jumper disciplines. It features - [Steve Ferstl and Matt Costabile Win Quick 32 Sportsman Series Season Openers](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-ferstl-and-matt-costabile-win-quick-32-sportsman-series-season-openers/): The Quick 32 Sportsman Series opened its season at Toronto Motorsports Park on Victoria Day Weekend in Cayuga, ON. The event was part of the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series and took place during the NHRA National Open double-header. In the first completed event, Steve Ferstl won the Top Dragster division, then advanced to the - [Speartech Fuel Injection Systems & Modern Racing Partner to Deliver Professional-Grade Wiring Solutions to Sportsman Racers](https://dragillustrated.com/speartech-fuel-injection-systems-modern-racing-partner-to-deliver-professional-grade-wiring-solutions-to-sportsman-racers/): Speartech Fuel Injection Systems, Inc., the industry’s renowned LS and LT engine retrofit specialist, and Modern Racing, a leader in motorsport electronics and wiring solutions, have announced a strategic partnership focused on developing high-performance electrical systems for the underserved space between sportsman racers and top-tier professional race teams. While expanding into new motorsports-focused product offerings, - [DI Interview: Jordan Vandergriff](https://dragillustrated.com/di-interview-jordan-vandergriff/): There is a lot riding on the shoulders of 31-year-old Jordan Vandergriff, but the weight of being tapped by John Force himself as the driver of the Cornwell Quality Tools Funny Car is more than welcome. To have been invited to drive for a legendary team would be mind-blowingly cool for anyone, but to settle - [On The Road: Wilkesboro Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/on-the-road-wilkesboro-motorsports-park/): When it comes to historic dragstrips located in my native North Carolina, Wilkesboro Motorsports Park has compiled more history than most people can remember. I first stepped foot on the property 35 years ago when the track was known as North Wilkesboro Dragway, and it had just undergone a massive renovation. Editor's Note: This column - [DI Interview: Stevie Jackson on Winning U.S. Street Nationals, Teamwork and 'Making Racing Boring Again'](https://dragillustrated.com/di-interview-stevie-jackson-on-winning-u-s-street-nationals-teamwork-and-making-racing-boring-again/): The U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission just wrapped up, and the pit area of event winner “Stevie Fast” Jackson is oddly silent. Soon the bourbon will be flowing like water, but for the moment, crew members are busy discussing a variety of other topics – what all needs to be repaired on the - [Fan View: How Josette Roach Joined Larsen Motorsports to Pursue Jet Car Dreams](https://dragillustrated.com/fan-view-how-josette-roach-joined-larsen-motorsports-to-pursue-jet-car-dreams/): For this issue’s column, I decided to do another chat with a driver and get their favorite fan interaction. Elaine Larsen along with her husband, Chris, founded Larsen Motorsports in 2006. Larsen Motorsports (LMS) has grown to become one of the most sought exhibition teams. Winning two world championships with the IHRA Nitro Jam series, - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 425 | Corey Stamper & Michael Poland](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-425-corey-stamper-michael-poland/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 425“SMALL TIRE STORMS & SOUTHERN CHAOS” SOME PEOPLE SEE BAD WEATHER.WE SEE BOOST WEATHER. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we’re diving headfirst into one of the rowdiest weekends on the outlaw racing calendar as we get ready for the 9th Annual Strange Engineering Ronnie Buff Memorial and - [Drag Race Bracket Bonanza Opens Pro Stock Motorcycle 'Major Moments' Bracket, the Third Bracket in the Series](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-race-bracket-bonanza-opens-pro-stock-motorcycle-major-moments-bracket-the-third-bracket-in-the-series/): Drag Race Bracket Bonanza (DRBB), the free fantasy game built for NHRA drag racing fans, has officially opened voting for the Pro Stock Motorcycle edition of its popular Major Moments brackets, the latest chapter in a season-long fan experience celebrating 75 years of NHRA history. The Major Moments initiative features seeded 64-moment brackets in each professional - [Doubleheader Shootout: Famoso Summit Series Weekend Delivers Wall-to-Wall Action](https://dragillustrated.com/doubleheader-shootout-famoso-summit-series-weekend-delivers-wall-to-wall-action/): Blue skies, sticky track conditions and packed staging lanes highlighted a busy weekend of Summit Series competition at Famoso Dragstrip as racers battled through back-to-back points races during Races No. 3 and No. 4 of the 2026 season. Saturday’s program opened the weekend with a strong mix of door cars, dragsters, motorcycles and Junior Street - [Chris King Makes Solid Start to 2026 Season in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/chris-king-makes-solid-start-to-2026-season-in-chicago/): For full-time Chicago firefighter and Funny Car driver and team owner Chris King the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by Peak was a solid start to his 2026 NHRA season. The independent team rolled into Rt. 66 Raceway looking to make four quality runs in qualifying, earn a spot in the - [TJ Zizzo Keeps Busy and Positive During Hometown Race in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/tj-zizzo-keeps-busy-and-positive-during-hometown-race-in-chicago/): Chicago native TJ Zizzo and the Rust-Oleum-backed Zizzo Racing team turned in a memorable weekend performance at their home event, the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK, advancing into race day after qualifying No. 10 in a stacked Top Fuel field at Route 66 Raceway. Zizzo piloted the Rust-Oleum Top Fuel - [IHRA Names Dustin Farthing President of the International Hot Rod Association ](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-names-dustin-farthing-president-of-the-international-hot-rod-association/): The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is proud to announce the appointment of Dustin Farthing as the new President of the organization, marking a major step forward in the company’s continued expansion across multiple motorsports disciplines. Farthing brings decades of experience as both a world champion racer and successful business leader. Widely recognized as one - [Andy Robinson Delivers Final-Round Performance at The Doorslammers 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/andy-robinson-delivers-final-round-performance-at-the-doorslammers-2026/): This weekend marked the 9th Annual running of the revived Doorslammers event, powered by Fueltech, at Santa Pod Raceway. Being an outlaw event, there is always a huge variety of cars and combinations that don’t fit the standard FIA rulebook, and some of the cars running in FIA competition will change their combos for this - [PDRA Season Carries On With Mid-Atlantic Showdown at Virginia Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/pdra-season-carries-on-with-mid-atlantic-showdown-at-virginia-motorsports-park/): Now two races into the seven-race 2026 Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series season, serious contenders are emerging as the series returns to Virginia Motorsports Park this weekend for the Mid-Atlantic Showdown presented by Classic Graphix, May 21-23. It’s still early in the world championship battles, but racers across the PDRA’s professional, sportsman, and - [Spencer Hyde Gains Consistency in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-gains-consistency-in-chicago/): Spencer Hyde, the Canadian driver of the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car, continued to build consistency this weekend at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. The reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year made his best pass of the season during qualifying, earning him a solid No. 5 qualifying - [Leah Martin Breaks Her Silence on IHRA Departure](https://dragillustrated.com/leah-martin-breaks-her-silence-on-ihra-departure/): Leah Martin isn't going quietly. A day after being informed her tenure as president of the International Hot Rod Association was over, Martin issued a statement marking the public end of her short run at the top of IHRA - and adding another name to a list that has been growing since the day Darryl - [IHRA Postpones Triple Crown Event at Maple Grove Raceway Due to Weather Forecast](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-postpones-triple-crown-event-at-maple-grove-raceway-due-to-weather-forecast/): International Hot Rod Association officials announced today that the IHRA Triple Crown event scheduled for May 22-24 at Maple Grove Raceway has been postponed due to a weather forecast dominated by rain throughout the weekend. After reviewing the latest forecast and evaluating the potential impact on racers, fans, teams, track personnel, and event operations, IHRA - [Consistency Carries Alexis DeJoria to Runner-Up Finish at NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/consistency-carries-alexis-dejoria-to-runner-up-finish-at-nhra-route-66-nationals/): For the second time in the first six races of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, Alexis DeJoria drove her John Force Racing Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car to the final round Sunday afternoon at the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK. It was a rematch - [Jonathan Allegrucci Wins Second in a Row; Captures Chicago Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Title](https://dragillustrated.com/jonathan-allegrucci-wins-second-in-a-row-captures-chicago-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-title/): Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown points leader Jonathan Allegrucci raced to his second consecutive national event win today at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by Peak. Allegrucci, the No. 2 qualifier, outran No. 1 qualifier Jason Dietsch in an all-Ford Mustang Cobra Jet final round. Dietsch was the defending Route 66 - [Strong Qualifying Effort, Quarterfinal Finish in Chicago Moves Ron Capps Back to the Top of the Funny Car Standings](https://dragillustrated.com/strong-qualifying-effort-quarterfinal-finish-in-chicago-moves-ron-capps-back-to-the-top-of-the-funny-car-standings/): Ron Capps put his NAPA Auto Care Funny Car in position for a successful Sunday run at the NHRA Route 66 Nationals, qualifying No. 2 and earning bonus points, before bowing out in a tire-smoking quarterfinal match with Chad Green at Route 66 Raceway outside Chicago. Capps, a two-time winner six races into the 2026 - [Maddi Gordon Records Strong Qualifying Performance, Quarterfinal Finish in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-records-strong-qualifying-performance-quarterfinal-finish-in-chicago/): “Maddi Mania” continues to ripple across the country as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series gets into the thick of its 2026 competition schedule. Top Fuel rookie Maddi Gordon piloted the Carlyle Tools dragster to an impressive qualifying performance, qualifying No. 2 at the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by - [John Force Racing Recap: DeJoria Runners-up, Hart Earns Semifinal Finish at NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/john-force-racing-recap-dejoria-runners-up-hart-earns-semifinal-finish-at-nhra-route-66-nationals/): The Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car team of Alexis DeJoria carried the John Force Racing banner proudly at Route 66 Raceway on the way to their second runner-up finish of the season in the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. DeJoria left the starting line a mere six-thousandths-of-a-second behind - [This Weekend's NHRA SPORTSnationals Events Postponed](https://dragillustrated.com/this-weekends-nhra-sportsnationals-events-postponed/): Due to an inclement weather forecast in both Kentucky and Maryland, the JEGS SPORTSnationals at Beech Bend Raceway Park and the Testo SPORTSnationals at Cecil County Dragway are being postponed. The JEGS SPORTSnationals at Beech Bend Raceway Park will move to the final weekend of August, as part of a revitalization of JEGS Speedweek, with - [King, Harris, Miliante Reflect on Growth & Popularity of Their Boost & Bullsh*t Podcast](https://dragillustrated.com/king-harris-miliante-reflect-on-growth-popularity-of-their-boost-bullsht-podcast/): Walk through any major Pro Mod pit area in 2026 and you'll hear it before your own name. "Boost & Bullshit!" That's the moment Steve King knew. The 2025 World Series of Pro Mod champion has spent more than three decades around drag strips, and he's used to fans shouting at him through the ropes. - [Menholt Takes Points Lead With JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Win in Chicago at Race Powered by ProFlow Pumping Solutions](https://dragillustrated.com/menholt-takes-points-lead-with-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-win-in-chicago-at-race-powered-by-proflow-pumping-solutions/): Derek Menholt became the first two-time winner of the season in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports, driving past Jason Collins in the final round on Sunday at Route 66 Raceway as part of this weekend's Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. It - [Langdon, Green, A. Stanfield, and M. Smith Roll to Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals Wins](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-green-a-stanfield-and-m-smith-roll-to-gerber-collision-glass-route-66-nhra-nationals-wins/): Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon rolled to his second straight victory, defeating four-time world champion Antron Brown in the final round on Sunday to close out the 26th annual Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK at Route 66 Raceway. Chad Green (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Matt - [Greg Anderson Isn't Singing the Blues; He's on a Mission Heading Into Raceday in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/greg-anderson-isnt-singing-the-blues-hes-on-a-mission-heading-into-raceday-in-chicago/): After four consecutive starts from the No. 1 position, seeing Greg Anderson’s name in the No. 4 spot after final qualifying for the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals may have come as a bit of a surprise. But for the most winning driver in the history of the class, the position is - [Alexis DeJoria Wins Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-wins-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-in-chicago/): Alexis DeJoria, the driver of the Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car, earned a victory for John Force Racing (JFR) today at the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK. DeJoria won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, a specialty race that takes place during qualifying on Saturday. DeJoria defeated J.R. Todd and - [Defending Event Champion Jason Dietsch Runs to Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown No. 1 at Route 66 Nationals in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/defending-event-champion-jason-dietsch-runs-to-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-no-1-at-route-66-nationals-in-chicago/): Last year Jason Dietsch ran the table at Route 66 Raceway winning two national events in the span of 24 hours. Today the veteran driver from Edgerton, Ohio, ran his Ford Mustang Cobra Jet to the No. 1 qualifier position. Dietsch is No. 1 ahead of current points leader Jonathan Allegrucci and championship contender Scott - [Langdon, DeJoria, Enders, and Herrera Get Wins in Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Route 66 Raceway](https://dragillustrated.com/langdon-dejoria-enders-and-herrera-get-wins-in-mission-2fast2tasty-challenge-at-route-66-raceway/): Top Fuel points leader – and the sport’s fastest driver – Shawn Langdon picked up his first victory in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge this season on Saturday at Route 66 Raceway, knocking off Justin Ashley in the final round of the bonus event as part of this weekend’s 26th annual Gerber Collision & Glass Route - [Kalitta, Beckman, Enders, and Angie Smith Start in Provisional No. 1 Spots at Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-beckman-enders-and-angie-smith-start-in-provisional-no-1-spots-at-gerber-collision-glass-route-66-nhra-nationals/): Reigning Top Fuel world champion Doug Kalitta made the quickest run on Friday at Route 66 Raceway, taking the provisional No. 1 spot at the 26th annual Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Angie Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are also the - [JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Heads to Chicago at Race Powered by ProFlow Pumping Solutions](https://dragillustrated.com/jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-series-heads-to-chicago-at-race-powered-by-proflow-pumping-solutions/): With the end of the regular season approaching and a wide range of talent evident at every turn, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports heads to Route 66 Raceway this weekend as part of the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. This weekend’s - [Matt Hagan, Leah Pruett Look to Carry Momentum Into Chicago for NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/matt-hagan-leah-pruett-look-to-carry-momentum-into-chicago-for-nhra-route-66-nationals/): With a quarter of the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season already past, Tony Stewart Racing enters this weekend’s Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals with both Matt Hagan’s Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car and Leah Pruett’s Dodge Top Fuel dragster sitting third in their respective points categories. Hagan, a 56-time Funny Car - [Kruse Captures $10,000 Warm-Up Race Win to Open The Autoland Door Car Challenge at Byron Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/kruse-captures-10000-warm-up-race-win-to-open-the-autoland-door-car-challenge-at-byron-dragway/): Doug Kruse of nearby Rockford, Illinois captured the $10,000 warm-up race Thursday to open the weekend at the Autoland Door Car Challenge at Byron Dragway. Nick Engler of Becker, Minnesota earned a $1,500 payout as the warm-up race runner-up. Engler, who is the reigning NHRA West Central Division Champion, competes as a no box, bottom-bulb entry. - [Eat Sleep Race's Brian Mabutas Talks Fast Life Fest at Cecil County Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/eat-sleep-races-brian-mabutas-talks-fast-life-fest-at-cecil-county-dragway/): When the gates swing open at Cecil County Dragway this Saturday morning, Jim Halsey's Rising Sun, Maryland quarter-mile will host something it has never seen in the history of the track: a no-prep drag race. That's the headline tucked inside Fast Life Fest 2026, the two-day motorsports festival landing at Cecil County on May 16-17. - [Chris King Fired Up to Race Hometown National Event in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/chris-king-fired-up-to-race-hometown-national-event-in-chicago/): This weekend at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 Nationals presented by Peak Chicagoan Chris King will hang up his fireman’s protective gear for an Impact firesuit to pilot the Howards Cams/Competition Products Nitro Funny Car. For King handling the dual role of team owner and driver is an exciting diversion from his day-to-day - [NHRA, Dodge, and Mopar Bring National Event Racing Back to Michigan for First Time in 66 Years for NHRA Debut at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-dodge-and-mopar-bring-national-event-racing-back-to-michigan-for-first-time-in-66-years-for-nhra-debut-at-u-s-131-motorsports-park/): NHRA National event racing returns to the great state of Michigan, courtesy of NHRA, Dodge and Mopar. NHRA officials announce that the Dodge and Mopar brands will serve as title and presenting sponsors of the first NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. Racing takes place Sept. 18-20 during NHRA's - [Larry Larson Ready to Defend His Crown at $75,000 King of the South Small-Tire Invitational](https://dragillustrated.com/larry-larson-ready-to-defend-his-crown-at-75000-king-of-the-south-small-tire-invitational/): One year ago, Larry Larson rolled into Shadyside Dragway for the Ronnie Buff Memorial Featuring King of the South as a relative unknown commodity in the small-tire racing world. But by the end of the weekend, the 5-time Hot Rod Drag Week winner was walking out with $75,000 and his own personal crown. Now he’s - [Quick 32 Sportsman Series to Kick Off 2026 Season in Style](https://dragillustrated.com/quick-32-sportsman-series-to-kick-off-2026-season-in-style/): The Quick 32 Sportsman Series will open its season by competing in the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series during the NHRA National Open double-headers at Toronto Motorsports Park, scheduled for Victoria Day Weekend, May 16-17. The John Scotti Canadian Championship Series at the NHRA National Open double-header will feature classes including the Quick 32 Sportsman - [Krista Baldwin Returns to NHRA Top Fuel Competition at Route 66 Nationals With Special Tribute to "The Greek"](https://dragillustrated.com/krista-baldwin-returns-to-nhra-top-fuel-competition-at-route-66-nationals-with-special-tribute-to-the-greek/): Krista Baldwin will make her return to NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Top Fuel competition this weekend at the NHRA Route 66 Nationals at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois, bringing with her a heartfelt tribute to one of the sport’s most iconic pioneers – her grandfather, Chris “The Greek” Karamesines. Backed by Red - [Beech Bend Track Record Under Threat From Top Fuel Dragster at Speedfest](https://dragillustrated.com/beech-bend-track-record-under-threat-from-top-fuel-dragster-at-speedfest/): History could be made at Beech Bend Raceway Park in two weeks when Top Fuel driver Cameron Ferre takes a shot at the track record during the Speedfest event, May 28-30. Speedfest combines three street-legal drag racing series (Sick, Street Car Takeover, and Braggin Rights) with a thrilling package of horsepower including jet funny cars, - [Steve Johnson Racing Storms Into Chicago for NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-johnson-racing-storms-into-chicago-for-nhra-route-66-nationals/): Steve Johnson will storm into fabled Route 66 Raceway aboard his 200-mph Suzuki for the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals, May 14-17, seeking to find some redemption after an early exit at the NHRA Southern Nationals, two weeks ago. It’s the fourth of 14 races this season for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class as the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heats up in the - [Funny Car Winner Jordan Vandergriff Eyes Chicago Success at Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/funny-car-winner-jordan-vandergriff-eyes-chicago-success-at-gerber-collision-glass-nhra-route-66-nationals/): For the first time in his career, Jordan Vandergriff is entering race week as the most recent NHRA Funny Car winner on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour. With momentum on his side following the major moment in his career, Vandergriff is hoping to follow up his win at South Georgia Motorsports Park - [TJ Zizzo Looking to Make a Statement in Front of Hometown Fans at NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/tj-zizzo-looking-to-make-a-statement-in-front-of-hometown-fans-at-nhra-route-66-nationals/): The 75th anniversary season of the NHRA is underway and this weekend, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will make its annual stop outside of Chicago for the Gerber Collision & Glass Rt. 66 Nationals, May 15-17. Veteran Top Fuel driver TJ Zizzo and his Rust-Oleum sponsored Top Fuel dragster are eager to show - [Jack Beckman and the Peak Squad Hope to Reach the Peak Again at NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jack-beckman-and-the-peak-squad-hope-to-reach-the-peak-again-at-nhra-route-66-nationals/): Jack Beckman and the PEAK SQUAD took a difficult path to victory in last year’s Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK so they’re working toward a much smoother route to winner’s circle in this year’s May 15-17 event at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Ill. “The big races to win - [Top Fuel's Justin Ashley Likes Team's Progress Approaching Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-justin-ashley-likes-teams-progress-approaching-gerber-collision-glass-nhra-route-66-nationals/): Justin Ashley heads to this weekend’s Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK at Route 66 Raceway feeling good about the path his SCAG Racing team is on. There have been adjustments with new crew chiefs and new team members, but the Top Fuel standout continues to thrive, especially over the - [Santa Pod's 60th Anniversary Season Lifts Off With Two Bumper Race Weekends](https://dragillustrated.com/santa-pods-60th-anniversary-season-lifts-off-with-two-bumper-race-weekends/): Santa Pod Raceway’s 60th Anniversary season hits the launch button over the next two weekends. First comes this weekend’s THE DOORSLAMMERS, featuring full-bodied cars with working doors, sprung chassis, serious intent and a serious prize purse of £100,000! That’s just the start. Next comes an extended Bank Holiday weekend featuring two race meetings in one. The - [Friday Qualifying at PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown to Stream For Free on FloRacing 24/7](https://dragillustrated.com/friday-qualifying-at-pdra-mid-atlantic-showdown-to-stream-for-free-on-floracing-24-7/): Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series officials and FloRacing announced today that Friday qualifying at the upcoming PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown presented by Classic Graphix will stream for free on the FloRacing 24/7 channel. The Mid-Atlantic Showdown, May 21-23, at Virginia Motorsports Park, is the third of seven races on the 2026 PDRA schedule and - [Jason Harris Scores Pro Mod Win at IHRA Spring Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jason-harris-scores-pro-mod-win-at-ihra-spring-nationals/): IHRA Pro Mod points leader Jason Harris took his Harts-Charger equipped “Party Time” ’69 Camaro to the winner’s circle for the first time this season at the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series Spring Nationals at Darana - National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio. Harris defeated Jason Lee in the final round after Lee turned on the - [Hartman Father-Son Combo Looks to Take Win at Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/hartman-father-son-combo-looks-to-take-win-at-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-in-chicago/): Lee Hartman has been a serious contender throughout the past three seasons in the NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series. In a class that is a serious battle between Fords, Chevrolets and Dodges Hartman has raced to several final rounds in his Dodge Drag Pak but the racer from Canfield, Ohio, is still looking for - [Drag Race Bracket Bonanza Partners with Peak in Chicago](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-race-bracket-bonanza-partners-with-peak-in-chicago/): As fans arrive at the Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK, there will be no question who is driving the energy around one of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ marquee events. From title sponsorship of the race weekend to a strong on-track presence with John Force Racing’s PEAK-backed Funny Car team, PEAK - [Callaway, Worsham, Harris, Rice, and Stanton Lead No. 1 Qualifiers at IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series Spring Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/callaway-worsham-harris-rice-and-stanton-lead-no-1-qualifiers-at-ihra-outlaw-nitro-series-in-hebron-ohio/): With rain in the forecast for later in the afternoon, the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series moved up professional qualifying roughly one hour on Friday morning at the IHRA Spring Nationals, allowing for consistently quick runs throughout the day in the cool air at Darana - National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio. Lee Callaway ran a - [Fletch Racing Set to Provide Bonus to Quick 32 Sportsman Series Teams](https://dragillustrated.com/fletch-racing-set-to-provide-bonus-to-quick-32-sportsman-series-teams/): The Quick 32 Sportsman Series announced today that Fletch Racing will provide guaranteed bonuses for the winner and runner-up teams competing in the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series during the NHRA National Open double-headers at Toronto Motorsports Park at Cayuga, scheduled for the Victoria Day Weekend of May 16-17. The winning Quick 32 Sportsman Series - [Bama Brawl Proves to be a Fight for Southeast Gassers Association Competitors](https://dragillustrated.com/bama-brawl-proves-to-be-a-fight-for-southeast-gassers-association-competitors/): The inaugural Southeast Gassers Association event at Holiday Raceway produced a true brawl in The Bama Brawl, where racers duked it out amongst themselves and the track. The historic facility in Woodstock, Alabama, produced another SEGA-defining race showcasing the wild and unpredictable nature of these SEGA-style gassers that get as close to the 1960s as - [Diesel Thunder and Jet Fire: Truckin’ For Kids Delivers Power and Purpose at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/diesel-thunder-and-jet-fire-truckin-for-kids-delivers-power-and-purpose-at-famoso/): If there’s a place where horsepower meets heart, it’s the annual Truckin’ For Kids Charity Show & Drags - and the 45th edition didn’t lift. It stood on the diesel pedal and never looked back. Held May 2-3 at Famoso Dragstrip and presented by 10-4 Magazine, the Bakersfield staple once again proved that big rigs, - [£100K beckons Europe’s fastest door cars to Santa Pod’s DOORSLAMMERS](https://dragillustrated.com/100k-beckons-europes-fastest-door-cars-to-santa-pods-doorslammers/): ‘Doorslammer’ is a drag racing term for a full-bodied car with functioning doors – in other words, your bog-standard saloon. Yet nothing is remotely bog-standard about the ‘saloon cars’ heading to Santa Pod Raceway from across Europe this month for the venue’s annual big-money bonanza shootout, THE DOORSLAMMERS – powered by FuelTech. Yes, they all have roofs - [Thunder Road Raceway Set to Join NHRA Member Track Network](https://dragillustrated.com/thunder-road-raceway-set-to-join-nhra-member-track-network/): NHRA officials are excited to announce that newly-reopened Thunder Road Raceway has joined the NHRA Member Track Network in NHRA’s West Central Division (Division 5) Located in Sturgis, S.D, Thunder Road Raceway is preparing for an exciting new chapter as the historic facility, which closed in 2023, has reopened under new ownership and management, bringing - [1320Video Founder Kyle Loftis Passes](https://dragillustrated.com/1320video-founder-kyle-loftis-passes/): Kyle Loftis, the founder of 1320Video and one of the most influential media figures in modern street car and drag racing culture, has passed away. 1320Video announced Loftis’ passing Wednesday afternoon, stating that Loftis died Tuesday night. “Kyle’s passion for motorsports inspired millions of people around the world and we will never forget what he - [Perfect Performance: Hogan Siblings Talk PDRA Jr. Dragster No. 1 Qualifying Double-Up](https://dragillustrated.com/perfect-performance-hogan-siblings-talk-pdra-jr-dragster-no-1-qualifying-double-up/): Siblings have qualified No. 1 together in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series’ Jr. Dragsters classes before – multiple times, in fact – but siblings qualifying No. 1 with “perfect” passes was unheard of until McKenzee and Jayden Hogan accomplished the feat at the recent Summit Racing Equipment East Coast Nationals presented by - [Hustwayte, Miller and Hensley Capture First PDRA Triple Threat Bracket Series Wins of 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/hustwayte-miller-and-hensley-capture-first-pdra-triple-threat-bracket-series-wins-of-2026/): The first PDRA Triple Threat Bracket Series event of 2026 brought a schedule change due to inclement weather on Saturday but the action on track started as fierce as ever for the first event on the schedule this season at Virginia Motorsports Park. Bruce Hensley started the weekend off with the Super 64 Shootout win - [DragFest 2026 Packs Gulfport Dragway with Records, Pro Mods, and Huge Crowds](https://dragillustrated.com/dragfest-2026-packs-gulfport-dragway-with-records-pro-mods-and-huge-crowds/): The 2nd annual DragCoverage Gulf Coast DragFest at Gulfport Dragway turned into one of the biggest and most memorable weekends in the history of the Gulfport, MS facility. DragFest was race number two of the 4-race Southern Outlaw Tour Series that TJ Pruitt started to bring back grass roots Pro Mod racing. Earlier in the - [Grudge Legends Score Cash Days 4 Bagger Wins at Shadyside Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/grudge-legends-score-cash-days-4-bagger-wins-at-shadyside-dragway/): When rain set in after round one of eliminations at Mike Beland’s Cash Days 4, the party simply moved under awnings and into trailers until the bad weather subsided. Karaoke was sung (was that really singing?), shots were drank, and good cleanish fun was had by all. And when the sun shown again Sunday on - [Racing Electronics Becomes Official Radio Supplier of Ron Capps Motorsports](https://dragillustrated.com/racing-electronics-becomes-official-radio-supplier-of-ron-capps-motorsports/): Racing Electronics, the longtime trusted two-way radio communication provider for many of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ top-tier teams, has teamed up with Ron Capps Motorsports for the 2026 season. As the official radio supplier of the championship-winning organization, Racing Electronics supplies radios, headsets, helmet and car wiring kits, batteries, and chargers to Ron - [NHRA Roars Into Chicago at Fan-Favorite Route 66 Raceway for Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-roars-into-chicago-at-fan-favorite-route-66-raceway-for-gerber-collision-glass-nhra-route-66-nationals/): As NHRA continues the yearlong celebration of its 75th anniversary, the stars of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series return to Route 66 Raceway for the fan-favorite Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK on May 14-17. Route 66 Raceway and its stadium-style facility have been a must-see stop on - [Leaf Racewear & Safety Equipment Returns as Official Uniform Supplier for Quick 32 Sportsman Series](https://dragillustrated.com/leaf-racewear-safety-equipment-returns-as-official-uniform-supplier-for-quick-32-sportsman-series/): Leaf Racewear & Safety Equipment will return in 2026 as the preferred and official uniform supplier for the Quick 32 Sportsman Series. For over 42 years, Leaf Racewear & Safety Equipment Inc. has been a trusted name in motorsports safety. The company manufactures and distributes a wide variety of premium racewear, including fire-resistant driver suits, - [Melling Engine Parts Celebrates 80 Years of Excellence in the Automotive Industry](https://dragillustrated.com/melling-engine-parts-celebrates-80-years-of-excellence-in-the-automotive-industry/): Melling Engine Parts proudly announces its 80th anniversary as a family-owned leader in the automotive aftermarket industry. Since its founding in 1946 by George Melling Sr. and his son Ben, Melling has been committed to delivering high-quality engine components that keep vehicles running strong. What began with precision oil pumps for older vehicles has grown - [Buddy Hull Enjoys NASCAR Cup Series Action at Texas Motor Speedway as Guest of Ford Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/buddy-hull-enjoys-nascar-cup-series-action-at-texas-motor-speedway-as-guest-of-ford-racing/): NHRA Funny Car driver and Hull Racing team owner Buddy Hull traded nitro for NASCAR this Sunday, taking in the Wurth 400 Presented by LIQUI MOLY at Texas Motor Speedway as a special guest of Ford Racing. Hull, joined by his wife Madi, experienced a behind-the-scenes look at the NASCAR Cup Series, beginning with an exclusive - [Alexis DeJoria Reaches Funny Car Semifinals at NHRA Southern Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-reaches-funny-car-semifinals-at-nhra-southern-nationals/): Alexis DeJoria continued her consistent start to the 2026 season Sunday at the NHRA Southern Nationals, guiding the Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car to a semifinal finish at South Georgia Motorsports Park. At the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ debut event at the facility, DeJoria navigated tricky track conditions to advance to the - [Ron Capps Looks Ahead to Chicago After Challenging Southern Nationals Weekend](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-looks-ahead-to-chicago-after-challenging-southern-nationals-weekend/): Three-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps entered the inaugural running of the NHRA Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park seeking a fourth consecutive final-round appearance after winning two of the first four races on the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour and powering to a runner-up finish in Pomona, Calif. last - [Spencer Hyde Races to Quarterfinals at NHRA Southern Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-races-to-quarterfinals-at-nhra-southern-nationals/): Sunday at the inaugural NHRA national event at beautiful South Georgia Motorsports Park in Adel, Georgia, 2025 NHRA Rookie of the Year Spencer Hyde and the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car raced to a quarterfinal finish at the Southern Nationals. Coming into race day as the No. 9 qualifier Hyde, who is solidly in - [Maddi Gordon Sets New Career-Best Numbers With 340 MPH Passes at NHRA Southern Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-sets-new-career-best-numbers-with-340-mph-passes-at-nhra-southern-nationals/): Top Fuel rookie Maddi Gordon’s first trip to South Georgia Motorsports Park for the NHRA Southern Nationals resulted in new career-bests in both elapsed time and speed for the driver of the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster. She became only the second woman and fourth Top Fuel driver to eclipse the 340-mph barrier, hitting the - [Jordan Vandergriff Bags First Wally at NHRA Southern Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jordan-vandergriff-bags-first-nhra-wally-at-southern-nationals/): It took just five events behind the wheel of John Force Racing’s Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car for Jordan Vandergriff to make the final round of eliminations, and he made the best of it in capturing his first NHRA event win at the NHRA Southern Nationals in his adopted state of Georgia. Vandergriff streaked - [Jason Collins Earns First JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Wally in Second Career Start](https://dragillustrated.com/jason-collins-earns-first-jbs-equipment-nhra-pro-mod-wally-in-second-career-start/): Making just his second career start in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Jason Collins drove to the victory, defeating Mike Thielen in the final round on Sunday at South Georgia Motorsports Park as part of this weekend’s NHRA Southern Nationals. It marked the fourth of 11 races during the 2026 season - [PHOTO GALLERY: NHRA Southern Nationals Take Over South Georgia](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-nhra-southern-nationals-take-over-south-georgia/): The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series broke new ground at South Georgia Motorsports Park, as the longtime hub of outlaw and radial racing welcomed its first NHRA national event with the NHRA Southern Nationals. For decades, the Valdosta facility has been synonymous with some of the most iconic radial races in the sport, and that - [Sellout Crowd Sees Langdon, Vandergriff, Glenn, and M. Smith Win NHRA Southern Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/sellout-crowd-sees-langdon-vandergriff-glenn-and-m-smith-win-nhra-southern-nationals/): Top Fuel’s Shawn Langdon, who went a record-breaking 345.00-mph on Friday, finished off an incredible weekend and picked up his second win of the season in front of a sellout crowd on Sunday at South Georgia Motorsports Park, defeating teammate Doug Kalitta in the final round to close out the NHRA Southern Nationals. Jordan Vandergriff - [2026 NHRA Southern Nationals: Results, Winners & Coverage](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-nhra-southern-nationals-results/): Complete results from the 2026 NHRA Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park (May 1-3). Shawn Langdon, Jordan Vandergriff, Dallas Glenn, and Matt Smith won the pro classes; Jason Collins took JBS Equipment Pro Mod. Final ETs, qualifying, eliminations, and full Drag Illustrated coverage. - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 412 | Stevie Fast Jackson & Mark Beatty!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-412-stevie-fast-jackson-mark-beatty/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 412“REDLINE, RESPECT, AND A WHOLE LOTTA FAST” HERE WE GO. THE COUNTDOWN TO THE WORLD SERIES OF PRO MOD IS OFFICIALLY ON. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we are flipping the switch and heating things up with two absolute pillars of the sport. First up, it’s Red - [U.S. Street Nationals Runner-Up Derek Menholt Carrying Quiet Momentum Into World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/u-s-street-nationals-runner-up-derek-menholt-carrying-quiet-momentum-into-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Following a standout season in the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Series, DerekMenholt rolled into the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented byJ&A Service at Bradenton Motorsports Park with quiet momentum and a brand-new centrifugally supercharged Corvette. He’s since qualified in the two quickest 32-car Pro Mod fields in history and went to the $75,000 final - [March Meet and Famoso Dragstrip Etched in American Hot Rod History](https://dragillustrated.com/march-meet-and-famoso-dragstrip-etched-in-american-hot-rod-history/): BAKERSFIELD, CA – When Famoso Dragstrip opened in 1954 the converted POSO airstrip was a place for hot rodders to flex their tuning skills and for racers to establish bragging rights. No one knew five years later that the track nicknamed “The Patch” would start one of the of most storied races in drag racing - [Snow Outlaws set to GO at St. Germain!](https://dragillustrated.com/snow-outlaws-set-to-go-at-st-germain/): Blown nitro, turbo alcohol, turbo nitro—the STM Powersports Snow Outlaws snowmobile drag racing series has them all and will unleash the fury February 13-14! The St. Germain Shootout presented by Wisconsin’s St. Germain Chamber of Commerce will see Outlaw, Pro Xtreme 55, and Pro Modified sleds launching with big wheelies and huge roostertails on the - [NHRA and Fox Sports Announce TV Schedule for NHRA's 75th Anniversary Season](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-and-fox-sports-announce-tv-schedule-for-nhras-75th-anniversary-season/): INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 13, 2026) – Coming off a standout season that included the most-watched race in NHRA history, NHRA officials and FOX Sports released the television schedule for the upcoming 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, a year that also celebrates NHRA’s 75th anniversary. All 20 races, along with the NHRA All-Star Callout - [Oberhofer Brothers Together Again at Rick Ware Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/oberhofer-brothers-together-again-at-rick-ware-racing/): MOORESVILLE, N.C. – For as long as they have been brothers, Jim and Jon Oberhofer have been involved in drag racing. Since attending races with their father, Dave, the Oberhofer Brothers have been nearly inseparable, working with their dad on the Top Fuel dragsters he was a part of and eventually carving their own drag - [$25,000, Inaugural Championship On The Line For Pro 10.5 at WSOPM](https://dragillustrated.com/25000-inaugural-championship-on-the-line-for-pro-10-5-at-wsopm/): Pro 10.5 racers will have more on the line than ever when the class returns to the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, Feb. 26–28 at Bradenton Motorsports Park, where a lucrative $25,000 winner’s purse headlines the Pro 10.5 Challenge. In addition to racing for one of the richest - [OP-ED: Is Tony Stewart America’s Greatest Racer?](https://dragillustrated.com/op-ed-is-tony-stewart-americas-greatest-racer/): I mean...yeah. Tony Stewart, in my humble opinion, is the greatest race car driver to ever compete in this United States and honestly, I don't see how there's an argument against it. With the Rushville Rocket returning to NASCAR action this weekend for the Craftsman Truck Series 2026 season opener at Daytona, I thought now’s - [Midwest Drift and Drags Set For Debut at Cordova Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/midwest-drift-and-drags-set-for-debut-at-cordova-dragway/): A new, multi-discipline motorsports festival is coming to the heart of the Midwest in 2026 as Midwest Drift and Drags makes its debut at Cordova Dragway June 12th and 13th, blending drifting, drag racing, roll racing, car show action, and an Aussie-style burnout pit into one all-inclusive weekend. Co-promoter Jeff Hintz said the event represents the - [U.S. Street Nationals by the Numbers](https://dragillustrated.com/u-s-street-nationals-by-the-numbers/): The 2026 edition of the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission was a historic event for Pro Modified. By any and all measurements of performance and competition, the sport has never seen anything quite like it. Fans were treated to the quickest 32-car Pro Mod field in history, and the first ever all-3.50’s field. - [Right Trailers Joins Vic Alvarez for 2026 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/right-trailers-joins-vic-alvarez-for-2026-drag-illustrated-world-series-of-pro-mod/): One of drag racing’s fastest-growing brands is stepping onto one of the sport’s biggest stages. Right Trailers has partnered with Vic Alvarez for the 2026 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, with the company set to be prominently featured on the doors of Alvarez’s centrifugally supercharged ’69 Camaro at - [Steve King Ready to Defend His Crown at World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-king-ready-to-defend-his-crown-at-world-series-of-pro-mod/): When Steve King rolls into Bradenton Motorsports Park for the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, he’ll be looking to do something nobody has ever accomplished: become a two-time winner of the event. As the defending WSOPM champion, King knows he’ll have a target on his back during the - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 414 | Ryan Martin, Kyle Dvorak, & Tommy D'Aprile](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-414-ryan-martin-kyle-dvorak-tommy-daprile/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 414“OUTLAWS, GOOD GUYS, AND PRO MOD HEAT” THIS WEEK WE’RE STACKED WITH HORSEPOWER, PERSONALITY, AND A WHOLE LOT OF BOOST. We are rollin’ straight toward the World Series of Pro Mod and this lineup feels like a heavyweight fight card. First up, the OG himself, Ryan Martin. Street Outlaws - [1,000th Funny Car Race Coming to Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona](https://dragillustrated.com/1000th-funny-car-race-coming-to-lucas-oil-nhra-winternationals-in-pomona/): POMONA, Calif. – In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip will again make history this spring during NHRA’s milestone 75th season, as the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals will play host to the 1,000th Funny Car race in NHRA history on April 9-12 on the hallowed grounds at Pomona. Funny Car made its first-ever appearance at the 1966 World - [AB Motorsports Announces Partnership with Autoland Outlets for 2026 NHRA Season](https://dragillustrated.com/ab-motorsports-announces-partnership-with-autoland-outlets-for-2026-nhra-season/): AB Motorsports announced today that Autoland Outlets will join the team as an official partner for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, aligning with four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown and the AB Motorsports organization, including the AB Motorsports Accelerate Program. A leading automotive dealer specializing in specialty pick-up trucks and - [Elite Motorsports Partners with HBOT4Heroes](https://dragillustrated.com/elite-motorsports-partners-with-hbot4heroes/): Elite Motorsports is proud to announce a partnership with HBOT4Heroes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to veterans and first responders suffering from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), post‑traumatic stress (PTSD), and other invisible wounds of service. “HBOT4Heroes is doing life‑changing work, and we’re honored to help amplify their mission,” said Richard - [Hull Racing Adds Crew Chief Matt Bynum and Focuses on Strong Start in Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/hull-racing-adds-crew-chief-matt-bynum-and-focuses-on-strong-start-in-gainesville/): Team owner and Funny Car driver Buddy Hull is building his newly formed Hull Racing team on a foundation of performance, safety and strong relationships. The past two months have seen a flurry of activity in Hull’s race shop located just south of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex by long-time crew chief Mike Guger and new - [Sonnax Launches Award-winning TH400, 4L80-E Servos for Quick Low/Reverse Band Checks at the Track](https://dragillustrated.com/sonnax-launches-award-winning-th400-4l80-e-servos-for-quick-low-reverse-band-checks-at-the-track/): Sonnax Transmission Company, the leader in transmission innovation, announces a groundbreaking servo system to improve GM TH400, 4L80-E reliability and make staging more consistent and predictable. The externally adjustable low/reverse servo were named runner-up in the performance racing new product category at the 2025 SEMA show, standing out among more than 1,300 entries across 15 - [Atomizer Racing Injectors Joins World Series of Pro Mod as Associate Sponsor](https://dragillustrated.com/atomizer-racing-injectors-joins-world-series-of-pro-mod-as-associate-sponsor/): Atomizer Fuel Components, producers of high-performance racing injectors, will serve as an associate sponsor of the upcoming Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, race officials announced today. With more than 70 drivers competing for the $150,000 winner-take-all prize, the World Series of Pro Mod is the ultimate proving ground - [From No Prep Kings to Pro Mod: Ryan Martin Enters the Chat at WSOPM](https://dragillustrated.com/from-no-prep-kings-to-pro-mod-ryan-martin-enters-the-chat-at-wsopm/): There are moments in drag racing that feel bigger than a single race. Bigger than a single class. Bigger than a single driver. Ryan Martin making his Pro Mod debut at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil is one of those moments. For more than a decade, Martin has - [Mike Thielen Returning to NHRA Pro Mod Competition With Mike Janis Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/mike-thielen-returning-to-nhra-pro-mod-competition-with-mike-janis-racing/): After a season on the sidelines, veteran doorslammer racer Mike Thielen is set to return to NHRA Pro Modified competition this season, reuniting with the Janis family racing operation for the full 11-race season to compete for a world championship beginning at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, March 6–8, at Gainesville Raceway. Thielen will - [Aeromotive Fuels the Fight at World Series of Pro Mod with $5,000 Hole Shot Bonus Program](https://dragillustrated.com/aeromotive-fuels-the-fight-at-world-series-of-pro-mod-with-5000-hole-shot-bonus-program/): In a class where thousandths of a second separate legends from heartbreak, the starting line often tells the real story. For the 2026 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, Aeromotive is putting serious money where reaction time matters most. Aeromotive will award a $1,000 Hole Shot Bonus in every round of eliminations, paying the - [Outlaw Light Beer Wild Card Shootout Set to Bring Even More Action to World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/outlaw-light-beer-wild-card-shootout-set-to-bring-even-more-action-to-world-series-of-pro-mod/): When the 2026 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil rolls into eliminations Saturday at Bradenton Motorsports Park, the spotlight won’t shine on just 32 cars. Thanks to a new partnership with Outlaw Light Beer, positions 33 through 64 after qualifying will have their own stage - and their own - [NHRA Returns to Firebird Motorsports Park for Duel in the Desert During 75th Anniversary Season](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-returns-to-firebird-motorsports-park-for-duel-in-the-desert-during-75th-anniversary-season/): The stars of the NHRA are headed back to fan-favorite Firebird Motorsports Park for the 41st annual FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs on March 20-22, marking the second race of the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season during its season-long 75th anniversary celebration. The “Duel in the Desert,” which - [Big Time Opener for Snow Outlaws at St. Germain](https://dragillustrated.com/big-time-opener-for-snow-outlaws-at-st-germain/): The STM Powersports Snow Outlaws snowmobile drag racing series might have opened the 2026 season one event late, but they opened up in a big way. Big crowds, big (as in high) temperatures, and a big, live video production courtesy of IHRA. Having the IHRA webcast team spreading Snow Outlaws action live around the globe - [Tommy D’Aprile Reflects on Pro Mod’s Evolution Ahead of World Series Showdown](https://dragillustrated.com/tommy-daprile-reflects-on-pro-mods-evolution-ahead-of-world-series-showdown/): Tommy D’Aprile has seen Pro Modified drag racing from just about every angle imaginable. He’s lived through the handbrake days. The clutch cars. The 5,000-RPM launch routines. The 52-car IHRA staging lanes fighting for 16 spots. The era when simply qualifying could feel like winning. Now, as the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod - [From 30 Under 30 to Pro Mod Contender: Kyle Dvorak’s Winter Series Breakthrough](https://dragillustrated.com/from-30-under-30-to-pro-mod-contender-kyle-dvoraks-winter-series-breakthrough/): Ten years ago, Kyle Dvorak was dreaming about Pro Mod. Today, he’s living it. As the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil approaches, Dvorak finds himself in a position that once felt distant – not just racing Pro Modified, but doing it on the sport’s biggest stage. And he knows - [NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series Set to Celebrate 25 Years During Thrilling 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-pro-mod-drag-racing-series-set-to-celebrate-25-years-during-thrilling-2026-season/): NHRA is set to celebrate its 75th anniversary during the 2026 season, and this year also represents a major milestone for the NHRA Pro Mod Series. The exciting series is set to enjoy its 25th anniversary celebration in 2026, racing 11 times across the country with the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. As part - [Drag Race Bracket Bonanza Launches 'Major Moments' to Let Fans Decide Greatest Moments in NHRA History](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-race-bracket-bonanza-launches-major-moments-to-let-fans-decide-greatest-moments-in-nhra-history/): Drag Race Bracket Bonanaza (DRBB), the free fantasy game built for NHRA fans, is launching an exciting new season-long feature for 2026: the Major Moments brackets, a fan-driven celebration of the most iconic events from 75 years of NHRA drag racing. Beginning today, DRBB will roll out seeded brackets featuring the Top 64 major moments - [World Series of Pro Mod Set to Crown Seventh Winner, Winter Series Champions in High-Stakes Bradenton Finale](https://dragillustrated.com/world-series-of-pro-mod-set-to-crown-seventh-winner-winter-series-champions-in-high-stakes-bradenton-finale/): On Saturday night, the seventh winner of the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil will be crowned as the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service wraps up at Bradenton Motorsports Park. The Pro Mod winner will walk away with $150,000 and a spot on the cover - [Ty Kasper Returning to Pro 10.5 With New Sponsor at WSOPM](https://dragillustrated.com/ty-kasper-returning-to-pro-10-5-with-new-sponsor-at-wsopm/): Young gun Ty Kasper is one of the names that’s been missing on the Pro 10.5 qualifying sheets at the first two races in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service at Bradenton Motorsports Park. That ends this week at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, - [Drag Illustrated Releases 2025 Photo Annual Featuring Snowbird Outlaw Nationals Winner Jason Harris on The Cover](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-releases-2025-photo-annual-featuring-snowbird-outlaw-nationals-winner-jason-harris-on-the-cover/): Drag Illustrated has officially released its highly anticipated 2025 Photo Annual, a visually driven celebration of the moments, machines, and personalities that defined the season. The newest edition is headlined by 2025 Snowbird Outlaw Nationals Pro Mod winner Jason Harris, whose standout performance at Bradenton Motorsports Park in December earned him the cover of this - [FloRacing 24/7 Amazon Prime Preview Day Returning for World Series of ProMod](https://dragillustrated.com/floracing-24-7-amazon-prime-preview-day-returning-for-world-series-of-promod/): Fans will have the opportunity to tune in to a full day of qualifying action from the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil through the FloRacing 24/7 channel, event officials announced today. Available on Amazon Prime Video, Fubo, and YouTube, FloRacing 24/7 will stream the opening day of World - [Right Trailers Returns as Title Sponsor of Top Fuel All-Star Callout at Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/right-trailers-returns-as-title-sponsor-of-top-fuel-all-star-callout-at-amalie-motor-oil-nhra-gatornationals/): The NHRA announced today Right Trailers will continue as the title sponsor of the upcoming big-money NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout. The Right Trailers NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout takes place Saturday, March 7, as part of the season-opening Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at legendary Gainesville Raceway, kicking off NHRA's yearlong 75th anniversary celebration. - [Snow Outlaws Set to Shred Spirit Lake](https://dragillustrated.com/snow-outlaws-set-to-shred-spirit-lake/): It’s already time for the World Finals of the STM Powersports Snow Outlaws snowmobile drag racing series, as another warmth shortened season finishes up this weekend (Friday, February 27th and Saturday the 28th) at Three Lakes-Brule River Trails at Spirit Lake, 1426 State Highway 32 in Three Lakes, Wisconsin, USA. The only warmth at Three - [Buddy Hull to Debut FS Mustang Funny Car at Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/buddy-hull-to-debut-fs-mustang-funny-car-at-gatornationals/): Hull Racing led by team owner and driver Buddy Hull will start the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series at the historic Gatornationals with new sponsor and marketing partner FS Performance and Sam Pack Ford on their 12,000-horspowered Funny Car. The design will mirror the 2025 high performance Mustang GT Premium that the dealership - [Kallee Mills Relishing First Winter Series Experience in Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/kallee-mills-relishing-first-winter-series-experience-in-pro-mod/): One year ago, Kallee Mills was preparing for her very first season competing in Pro Modified. Now, two races into her first Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service in the class, she’s embracing every moment that comes with competing against the best drivers the class has to offer at Bradenton Motorsports Park. “Overall, - [Legacy Nitro Funny Car Series Releases 2026 Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/legacy-nitro-funny-car-series-releases-2026-schedule/): The Legacy Nitro Funny Car Series announced the dates of its 2026 event schedule. The rebranded series will bring Nitro Funny Car racing to 11 events including four events as a special attraction on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series in addition to seven dates on the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series. “The variety - [Maddi Gordon Earns Top Fuel License, Reflects on First Runs Ahead of Pro Debut](https://dragillustrated.com/maddi-gordon-earns-top-fuel-license-reflects-on-first-runs-ahead-of-pro-debut/): After making her first-ever runs in a 12,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragster last week during the PRO preseason test session at Gainesville Raceway, rookie driver Maddi Gordon has officially completed her Top Fuel licensing process, clearing the way for her professional NHRA debut with Ron Capps Motorsports at the upcoming 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing - [PHOTO GALLERY: Import Face-Off Delivers High-Energy Show Sunday at Famoso Dragstrip](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-import-face-off-delivers-high-energy-show-sunday-at-famoso-dragstrip/): Sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s made for near-perfect conditions as Import Face-Off rolled into Famoso Dragstrip Sunday, February 22, delivering one of the strongest stops yet at the Bakersfield facility. A strong crowd filled the grounds throughout the day, with fans lining the fence, packing the pit area, and enjoying the wide range - [From Bandimere to Bradenton: Tuner Jeff Pierce Chasing More WSOPM Success](https://dragillustrated.com/from-bandimere-to-bradenton-tuner-jeff-pierce-chasing-more-wsopm-success/): With victories under his belt at both Bandimere Speedway and Bradenton Motorsports Park, Jeff Pierce is one of the most accomplished tuners in the history of the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod and the broader Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. He led the late Scotty Oksas to the $100,000 win - [Thursday Qualifying Results - 2026 World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/thursday-qualifying-results-2026-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Qualifying kicked off Thursday at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil at Bradenton Motorsports Park, the third and final race of the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Pro Mod and Pro 10.5 completed two qualifying sessions, while True 10.5 and Lil Gangstas each ran - [Friday Results - 2026 World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/friday-results-2026-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Qualifying continues Friday at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil at Bradenton Motorsports Park, the third and final race of the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Pro Mod is scheduled to run three qualifying sessions. Pro 10.5 will receive one final qualifying session before - [Drag Illustrated to Celebrate 20 Years with WSOPM Kickoff Party at Yard House Sarasota](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-to-celebrate-20-years-with-wsopm-kickoff-party-at-yard-house-sarasota/): Race week for the biggest Pro Modified event on the planet will get underway in fitting fashion Wednesday night as Drag Illustrated hosts its 20th Anniversary Party and World Series of Pro Mod Kickoff at Yard House Sarasota, just minutes from Bradenton Motorsports Park. Set for Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m., the celebration serves as both a - [Red Line Oil Continues Partnership with Dave Richards for 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/red-line-oil-continues-partnership-with-dave-richards-for-2026-season/): Dave Richards and SCAG Racing are excited to continue their partnership with Red Line Oil for the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season. Red Line Oil, a leader in high-performance lubricants, plays a key role in keeping Richards’ nitro Funny Car performing at its best. From engine and gear oil to specialty additives, - [Ryan Oehler and Brayden Davis Bring Fresh Power to the Gators](https://dragillustrated.com/ryan-oehler-and-brayden-davis-bring-fresh-power-to-the-gators/): By any standard, third generation motorcycle drag racer Brayden Davis gave a stunning performance last year—his first on the big stage of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle competition. Veteran racer Flyin’ Ryan Oehler thinks his team has found the performance to keep Davis’s results right where Brayden— his new teammate—is used to having them. The Flyin’ - [ARP Now Offering Many New Nuts And Washers](https://dragillustrated.com/arp-now-offering-many-new-nuts-and-washers/): In addition to manufacturing a huge variety of “bulk” bolts and studs that are sold in kits by size (not by application), ARP compliments them with an assortment of nuts and washers —including nearly 60 new kits for 2026. ARP’s washer lineup includes both polished stainless steel or black oxide treated 8740 chrome moly in - [Hoosier Racing Tire Named Presenting Sponsor of NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Series as Program Expands](https://dragillustrated.com/hoosier-racing-tire-named-presenting-sponsor-of-nhra-summit-racing-equipment-series-as-program-expands/): NHRA announced today that Hoosier Racing Tire has been named the presenting sponsor of the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Series, the world’s largest motorsports program when it comes to racer participation, as part of an impressive expansion for the 2026 season. The popular program, which has been expanded by 50 percent, will now include 12 - [Ron Capps Motorsports Partners With Women in Motorsports North America](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-motorsports-partners-with-women-in-motorsports-north-america/): Ron Capps Motorsports is proud to announce its partnership with Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA), a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing opportunities for women across all sectors of the motorsports industry. As part of the collaboration, the WIMNA logo will appear on the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster driven by Rookie of the Year contender - [Keith Haney Looking to Bounce Back at World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/keith-haney-looking-to-bounce-back-at-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Keith Haney is no stranger to Pro Modified success. The co-owner of Tulsa Raceway Park is a two-time Midwest Drag Racing Series points champion, and has qualified each of the past two years at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil – cementing his place among the elite drivers - [King’s Comeback: 2025 WSOPM Champ Steve Kings Wins Outlaw Beer Wild Card Shootout](https://dragillustrated.com/kings-comeback-2025-wsopm-champ-steve-kings-wins-outlaw-beer-wild-card-shootout/): When reigning WSOPM winner Steve King just missed out on qualifying for the main 32-car Pro Mod field at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, his chances at returning to the WSOPM Winner’s Circle didn’t end. Thanks to the Outlaw Light Beer Wild Card Shootout, a separate five-round - [Cecil County Dragway Set to Host Testo NHRA Chesapeake SPORTSnationals For First Time in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/cecil-county-dragway-set-to-host-testo-nhra-chesapeake-sportsnationals-for-first-time-in-2026/): For the first time, Cecil County Dragway will host a prestigious SPORTSnationals race in 2026, as the Testo NHRA Chesapeake SPORTSnationals is set for May 23-24, bringing the standout event for drivers in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series to the NHRA Division 1 track as part of a thrilling doubleheader event over Memorial - [Eric Gustafson Secures $10,000 Low Qualifier Bonus at World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/eric-gustafson-secures-10000-low-qualifier-bonus-at-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service championship contender Eric Gustafson added 32 points to his tally Friday night when he locked down the No. 1 qualifier position at the Winter Series finale, the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil. In the first of three Friday qualifying sessions at - [From Tackles to 10.5 Glory: Fletcher Cox Wins Winter Series Pro 10.5 Championship, WSOPM Pro 10.5 Title](https://dragillustrated.com/from-tackles-to-10-5-glory-fletcher-cox-wins-winter-series-pro-10-5-championship-wsopm-pro-10-5-title/): Super Bowl champion Fletcher Cox, who jumped behind the wheel of his nitrous-assisted “Training Day” ’69 Camaro after retiring from a 12-season career with the Philadelphia Eagles, went into the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil with a shot at the DI Winter Series presented by J&A Service Pro - [Aaron Stanfield Enters Pro Mod History Books as 2026 World Series of Pro Mod Champion](https://dragillustrated.com/aaron-stanfield-enters-pro-mod-history-books-as-2026-world-series-of-pro-mod-champion/): NHRA Pro Stock star and multi-time Factory Stock Showdown world champion Aaron Stanfield added another significant accomplishment to his résumé Saturday night when he won the $150,000-to-win Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod (WSOPM) presented by Red Line Oil at Bradenton Motorsports Park. The final round was decided by just .003 seconds as Stanfield - [Worsham & Nataas Bring Testing Momentum to the Starting Line of the 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/worsham-nataas-bring-testing-momentum-to-the-starting-line-of-the-2026-season/): After a productive PRO test session in Gainesville last month, Del Worsham and Julie Nataas head into this weekend’s Gatornationals carrying strong momentum into the start of the 2026 season. During testing, the duo made several successful passes, highlighted by Nataas’s new personal-best 3.94-second run. The milestone marks a significant step forward as she continues - [Kirk Wolf and Dubbin Motorsports Target Strong GatorNationals Season Start](https://dragillustrated.com/kirk-wolf-and-dubbin-motorsports-target-strong-gatornationals-season-start/): Dubbin Motorsports is set to open the 2026 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series season this weekend at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA GatorNationals at Gainesville Raceway, with driver Kirk Wolf returning behind the wheel of the team’s A/Fuel Dragster. The Minnesota-based operation enters 2026 with momentum built over several seasons of development, directed by - [Drag Race Bracket Bonanza Builds on PEAK Performance in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-race-bracket-bonanza-builds-on-peak-performance-in-2026/): Last year PEAK ramped up their already strong fan engagement presence by joining Drag Race Bracket Bonanza (DRBB), the free bracket game for drag racing fans, as title sponsor for the Route 66 Nationals and World Finals editions of the game as well as sponsor of the race recap email distributed to thousands of players throughout the - [Full Pull: Peter Norton Claims DI Winter Series Pro Mod Championship, Rookie of The Year Honors](https://dragillustrated.com/full-pull-peter-norton-claims-di-winter-series-pro-mod-championship-rookie-of-the-year-honors/): Tractor puller turned Pro Mod contender Peter Norton secured the 2025/2026 Winter Series Pro Mod points championship Saturday night at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil when he defeated Randy Weatherford in a winner-take-all semifinal matchup at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Piloting his Harts-Charger-equipped, Hurricane Motorsports ’69 Camaro, Norton - [Mark Lendzion to Serve as Tech Director for Small Tire Pro Stock in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/mark-lendzion-to-serve-as-tech-director-for-small-tire-pro-stock-in-2026/): Small Tire Pro Stock is proud to welcome Mark Lendzion as Tech Director for the 2026 racing season. Lendzion will handle tech declaration forms and scale cars after qualifying and elimination rounds, and take on additional responsibilities when requested, for the racing series which is in its second year of competition and actively building a - [Buddy Hull Making Funny Car Team Ownership Debut in Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/buddy-hull-making-funny-car-team-ownership-debut-in-gainesville/): When the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season kicks off at the legendary AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, March 5-8, at Gainesville Raceway, Buddy Hull will roll into the staging lanes with more momentum, and more pride, than ever before. The event marks Hull’s third season competing in the ultra-competitive Funny Car category, - [Top Fuel's Doug Kalitta Looks to Stay at the Top Starting at AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-doug-kalitta-looks-to-stay-at-the-top-starting-at-amalie-motor-oil-nhra-gatornationals/): For the second time in three years, Top Fuel veteran Doug Kalitta will start the season as the reigning world champion heading into this weekend’s Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway, an impressive feat considering Kalitta’s longtime quest to win a world title in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Kalitta will - [NHRA Announces First Wave of 75th Anniversary Commemorative Tickets for First Five Races](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-announces-first-wave-of-75th-anniversary-commemorative-tickets-for-first-five-races/): As part of NHRA”s 75th anniversary during the 2026 season, a special commemorative ticket will be available for fans to purchase online, highlighting some of the biggest moments and legends in NHRA history. NHRA announced today the commemorative tickets for the first five races have been released, honoring legends Kenny Bernstein (Gainesville and Pomona), Don - [Steve Boggs of Bartone Bros. Racing Inducted Into International Hot Rod Hall of Fame](https://dragillustrated.com/steve-boggs-of-bartone-bros-racing-inducted-into-international-hot-rod-hall-of-fame/): Bartone Bros. Racing is proud to announce that legendary tuner Steve Boggs has been inducted into the prestigious International Hot Rod Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place Thursday evening at the University Hilton in Gainesville during the 2026 Gatornationals weekend. Boggs, the mastermind behind the “Pirate Ship” Top Alcohol Funny Car owned by Tony - [Hart, Green, Hartford, and Gadson Open 75th Anniversary Season with Wins at Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/hart-green-hartford-and-gadson-open-75th-anniversary-season-with-wins-at-amalie-motor-oil-nhra-gatornationals/): Ocala’s Josh Hart won in his debut with John Force Racing on Sunday at Gainesville Raceway, taking down reigning Top Fuel world champion Doug Kalitta in the final round of the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. Chad Green (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) and Richard Gadson (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also won in front of - [ScottRod Racing Records Career-Best Speed at Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/scottrod-racing-records-career-best-speed-at-gatornationals/): ScottRod Racing opened the 2026 NHRA Top Fuel season with a career-best 298.73-mph run during qualifying at the historic 57th Annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. The event marked the season opener of NHRA’s 75th anniversary year and drew a sold-out crowd to the legendary Florida facility. The independent Connecticut-based team, owned by managing partner Michelle - [Top Fuel's Josh Hart Looks to Continue Strong Start at FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuels-josh-hart-looks-to-continue-strong-start-at-fmp-nhra-arizona-nationals/): A near-flawless weekend to open the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season has Top Fuel’s Josh Hart riding high heading into this weekend’s FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs at Firebird Motorsports Park. Hart made career-best runs, qualified No. 1, set the Gainesville Raceway track speed record with a 340-mph - [DeJoria Focused on First JFR Win in Arizona, Site of First Career Win](https://dragillustrated.com/dejoria-focused-on-first-jfr-win-in-arizona-site-of-first-career-win/): Alexis DeJoria reached the final round in her John Force Racing debut two weeks ago at Gainesville Raceway and, having earned her first career NHRA Funny Car victory at Firebird Motorsports in 2014, the driver of the Bandero Premium Tequila Chevrolet SS Funny Car has every confidence she can pick up another Wally at this - [Goodyear Ready for Nitro in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/goodyear-ready-for-nitro-in-2026/): As Top Fuel speeds climbed on the regular last year in the National Hot Rod Association, the spotlight turned to the only part of a 12,000-horsepower nitro monster that actually touches the track: the tires. When the now-retired two-time class champion Brittany Force blasted past 340 mph – twice in a matter of weeks in - [Hilton, Plate Lead Nitro Charge as 68th Good Vibrations Motorsports March Meet Heats Up at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/hilton-plate-lead-nitro-charge-as-68th-good-vibrations-motorsports-march-meet-heats-up-at-famoso/): The nitro thunder is officially rolling through California’s Central Valley as qualifying wrapped up Friday at the legendary Famoso Dragstrip during the 68th Good Vibrations Motorsports March Meet. With cool temperatures in the high 60s and a well-prepared racing surface on the historic Bakersfield quarter-mile, the stage was set for strong performances across the nitro - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Austin Kardules](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-austin-kardules/): Like so many second-generation racers, Austin Kardules has always been around the sport. But what started out as a hobby has become a multi-faceted career that sees the central Ohio native reach new audiences in hopes of growing the sport he loves. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Jeff Kline](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-jeff-kline/): When Jeff Kline first started taking photos of race cars at his local Cecil County Dragway, he had no idea that his obsessive interest in drag racing could someday lead to a career in the sport. But by following his passion and refining his craft over the last 10 years, he’s had the opportunity to - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Scotty Kruck](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-scotty-kruck/): At just 21 years old, Scotty Kruck has already established a reputation as a driver and tuner in the world of small-tire index racing and grudge racing. Rising out of the Jr. Dragster ranks like many racers of his generation, Kruck has emerged as one of the most formidable contenders in the increasingly popular Lil - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Trevor and Jordan Manton](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-trevor-and-jordan-manton/): When Trevor and Jordan Manton talk about family, business, and drag racing, the three threads are impossible to separate. For the brothers behind Manton Pushrods and Manton Rocker Arms, their lives have been shaped by a lineage that stretches from the lunar missions of the 1960s to the quickest doorslammers on the planet. Their grandfather, - [Spencer Hyde to Fill In For Ken Quartuccio For Final Two DI Winter Series Events With Scott Tidwell Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/spencer-hyde-to-fill-in-for-ken-quartuccio-for-final-two-di-winter-series-events-with-scott-tidwell-racing/): Two of the most decorated drivers in the history of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service are joining forces for the final two events in 2026. Spencer Hyde, the 2023 World Series of Pro Mod winner, will be taking over driving duties for reigning U.S. Street Nationals winner and Winter Series points - [Street Car Takeover Announces 2026 Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/street-car-takeover-announces-2026-schedule/): Street Car Takeover recently unveiled their 2026 schedule, kicking off its 13th season January 9-10 at Firebird Motorsports Park in Phoenix, Arizona. SCT will also return to Phoenix to finish the 18-race schedule November 13-14. In between, the series will travel from coast to coast – from Bakersfield, California to Gainesville, Florida – and everywhere - [2026 SEMA Scholarship, Loan Forgiveness Applications Now Open](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-sema-scholarship-loan-forgiveness-applications-now-open/): The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is now accepting applications for the 2026 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, an initiative designed to help students and emerging professionals launch successful careers in the automotive industry. Through the scholarship program, eligible students may receive awards of up to $5,000 to support their education at accredited universities, colleges, and vocational - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Melanie Johnson](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-melanie-johnson/): She denied it as long as she could, but the urge to drive a Top Alcohol Dragster was part of Melanie Johnson's DNA. While other kids her age were playing with toys at the back of the suite in the tower, the young daughter of revered champion NHRA crew chief Alan Johnson was perched at - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Jack Line](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-jack-line/): Drag racing is often an inherited life, with recent years seeing the habit in some families stretch four generations deep. For young Jack Line, it isn't just a passion for quarter-mile competition that runs rich in his blood, it's a deep drive to dig into what makes it all come together. Unafraid of hard work - [Lyle Barnett Confident Heading Into U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/lyle-barnett-confident-heading-into-u-s-street-nationals/): After a runner-up finish a year ago at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, veteran driver Lyle Barnett believes his team can have a repeat performance – or better – when the best Pro Mod teams in the country return to Bradenton Motorsports Park January 23-25 for the second race of the Drag - [Street Car Takeover and Lil’ Gangstas Unite to Redefine Grassroots Drag Racing in America](https://dragillustrated.com/street-car-takeover-and-lil-gangstas-unite-to-redefine-grassroots-drag-racing-in-america/): Street Car Takeover, the nation’s premier street-legal drag racing event series, announced today that longtime grassroots racing advocates Tom “Jimmy Dale” Gunner and Michael Poland have secured an ownership stake in the rapidly growing series, solidifying a partnership that is set to reshape the future of grassroots drag racing in America. The move formalizes a - [True 10.5 Returns at U.S. Street Nationals - This Time With The Clocks On](https://dragillustrated.com/true-10-5-returns-at-u-s-street-nationals-this-time-with-the-clocks-on/): After initially being left off the event schedule, the fan-favorite True 10.5 class is poised to return January 23-25 for the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, the second race of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, once again competing for $40,000. True 10.5 was originally scheduled to only appear at - [“I Didn’t Think I Was Going to Win It”: Jason Harris and the Hardest Place to Prove Yourself](https://dragillustrated.com/i-didnt-think-i-was-going-to-win-it-jason-harris-and-the-hardest-place-to-prove-yourself/): There are wins - and then there are moments that change how a racer is defined. For Jason Harris, the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals didn’t just add another trophy to an already decorated career. It placed him at the center of the most unforgiving competitive environment in modern drag racing - and demanded that he prove - [American Communications Construction, Aloha Beauty Lounge Extend Primary Sponsorship With Tony Schumacher Through 2032](https://dragillustrated.com/american-communications-construction-aloha-beauty-lounge-extend-primary-sponsorship-with-tony-schumacher-through-2032/): Texas-based American Communications Construction (ACC) and Aloha Beauty Lounge have each extended its primary sponsorship of NHRA Top Fuel driver Tony Schumacher and the No. 15 Top Fuel dragster he pilots for Rick Ware Racing (RWR) through the 2032 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. This long-term agreement will have the winningest Top Fuel - [Scott Okuhara Named Co-Crew Chief on Bluebird Turf Top Fuel Team](https://dragillustrated.com/scott-okuhara-named-co-crew-chief-on-bluebird-turf-top-fuel-team/): SCAG Racing is pleased to announce that Scott Okuhara has been named Co-Crew Chief on the recently added Bluebird Turf/ Will Smith Top Fuel Dragster Team, joining Glen Huszar. This role marks a new title for Okuhara, who has previously served as Car Chief for many notable teams across the NHRA pits. His experience brings - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Samuel Peterson](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-samuel-peterson/): For Samuel Peterson, drag racing is the only life he’s ever known. The 24-year-old track prep specialist and event promoter based out of Michigan has been immersed in the sport thanks to a deeply rooted family legacy that stretches across multiple generations of dragstrip operators. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 410 | Jason Harris and Brian Lohnes!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-410-jason-harris-and-brian-lohnes/): THE WES BUCK SHOW — EPISODE 410“NEW YEAR, NEW MILLION?” IT’S 2026.WE’RE BACK.AND WE’RE ALREADY TALKIN’ BIG MONEY AND BAD FAST HOT RODS. To kick off the new year, we’ve got a couple of absolute hammers joining us to break it all down and fire it all up. First up, NHRA’s own Brian Lohnes, the - [Snowbirds Winner Jason Harris Leads DI Winter Series Points Going Into U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/snowbirds-winner-jason-harris-leads-di-winter-series-points-going-into-u-s-street-nationals/): With his $50,000 victory at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, two-time PDRA Pro Boost world champion Jason Harris is the points leader going into the second race of the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission. Harris and several other Pro Modified - [Larry Larson Headed Back to Drag-and-Drive? Legendary Chevy S-10 Signals Possible Unlimited Return](https://dragillustrated.com/larry-larson-headed-back-to-drag-and-drive-legendary-chevy-s-10-signals-possible-unlimited-return/): For more than a decade, the name Larry Larson has lived more in legend than in lanes when it comes to drag-and-drive competition. That may be about to change. Fresh signs of life from Larson’s infamous 1998 Chevy S-10 - a truck that once redefined what “street legal” meant - have reignited speculation that the five-time HOT ROD - [Nate Sayler Believes Big Changes Will Lead to Success at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/nate-sayler-believes-big-changes-will-lead-to-success-at-u-s-street-nationals/): Former No Prep Kings star Nate Sayler arrived in Bradenton, Florida last December for the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks with high hopes. Piloting his brand-new screw-blown ’67 Mustang, built by Quarter-Max Racing and powered by a ProLine MH8 4.9 Hemi, Sayler appeared primed for a breakout performance. Unfortunately, the car backfired on - [“I Have No Reference Point for This”: Brian Lohnes on the Winter Series and Watching History Form in Real Time](https://dragillustrated.com/i-have-no-reference-point-for-this-brian-lohnes-on-the-winter-series-and-watching-history-form-in-real-time/): By any historical measure, drag racing has always evolved in waves - eras defined by cars, personalities, venues, and moments that only fully reveal their importance years later. But every so often, something emerges that refuses easy comparison, something that doesn’t fit neatly into the established timelines. According to Brian Lohnes, that’s exactly what’s happening - [Kayla Morton Embraces New Role With FloRacing](https://dragillustrated.com/kayla-morton-embraces-new-role-with-floracing/): Former No Prep Kings star Kayla Morton traded in her fire suit for a microphone last month at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, joining FloRacing’s live broadcast team in Bradenton, Florida for the first race of the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Morton dove headfirst into her new - [75th NHRA Season to Kick Off in Major Way at NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/75th-nhra-season-to-kick-off-in-major-way-at-nhra-gatornationals-in-gainesville/): One of the biggest seasons in NHRA history is set for a massive opening, as the 75th anniversary season in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series officially gets underway with the NHRA Gatornationals on March 5-8 at legendary Gainesville Raceway. The historic race and venue will get an added touch this season to kick - [Jim Halsey Planning Incredible Return For U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jim-halsey-planning-incredible-return-for-u-s-street-nationals/): After a horrific crash last month at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, nobody would have blamed four-time PDRA Pro Nitrous world champion Jim Halsey if he missed the final two races of the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Halsey admitted that in the moments immediately following the wreck, - [Orlando Speed World Dragway Bans Fully Electric Vehicles from Competition and Testing](https://dragillustrated.com/orlando-speed-world-dragway-bans-fully-electric-vehicles-from-competition-and-testing/): Orlando Speed World Dragway has ignited a new debate in the racing world by announcing a total ban on fully electric vehicles from its dragstrip - not just in competition, but also during test and tune days - effective immediately. The move, revealed in a January 8 press release from the Central Florida facility, cites - [Competition Plus Announces New Time, Updated Format for 'Power Hour'](https://dragillustrated.com/competition-plus-announces-new-time-updated-format-for-power-hour/): CompetitionPlus.com has been a leader in online motorsports journalism for over 25 years. Through web stories, commentaries, longform videos and podcasts the media organization founded by Bobby Bennett has been the go-to resource for drag racing fans around the world. For 2026 the wildly popular Power Hour show hosted by Lee Craft and Dujunnea Bland - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Sydney Marshall](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-sydney-marshall/): At just 27 years old, Sydney Marshall is already the face of a new generation in drag racing. He grew up at the racetrack, learned every inch of it from the ground up, and now runs one of the most active racetracks in Florida – Orlando Speed World Dragway. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Mikel McQueen](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-mikel-mcqueen/): Growing up in Odessa, Texas, Mikel McQueen didn’t have many distractions – just baseball, work, wide-open spaces, and drag racing. Now 24, he’s become one of the most accomplished young bracket racers in the region, collecting wins and championships at a rapid pace. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Bryce Micke](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-bryce-micke/): At just 22, Bryce Micke is helping carry one of drag racing’s most respected family names into the next generation. As a key crew member on Mark Micke’s twin-turbo M&M Transmission ’69 Camaro, Bryce plays a hands-on role in one of the most talked-about programs in Pro Mod. When he’s not helping his uncle chase - [Will Smith Talks New Full-Time NHRA Top Fuel Opportunity with SCAG Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/will-smith-talks-new-full-time-nhra-top-fuel-opportunity-with-scag-racing/): Will Smith wrapped up the 2025 season not knowing exactly what his 2026 season would look like. After hoisting an IHRA Ironman in Top Alcohol Dragster over the summer and making his Nitro Funny Car debut to close out the season, Smith had established himself as a proven wheelman in the nitro ranks. Randy Gloede - [Stroud Safety Names John Gentry Chief Revenue Officer](https://dragillustrated.com/stroud-safety-names-john-gentry-chief-revenue-officer/): Stroud Safety, the Oklahoma City-based motorsports safety manufacturer trusted by racers across every major discipline, announced today that John Gentry has been named Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). Gentry has served as Stroud Safety’s National Sales Manager since February 2019 and has been an integral part of the company’s continued growth and success. In his new - [Chassis Engineering Announces New Lower Pricing For Racers](https://dragillustrated.com/chassis-engineering-announces-new-lower-pricing-for-racers/): Chassis Engineering is offering their high-quality chassis components at new lower prices, the company announced today. This move reflects Chassis Engineering's commitment to giving back to racers, especially in today's economy. Now, the high-quality, precision-manufactured chassis components that have made Chassis Engineering a major player in the racing aftermarket for 45 years - all designed - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Brandon Miller](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-brandon-miller/): It was a big decision to race NHRA Pro Stock at the age of 19, and it's certainly one that requires a healthy dose of confidence. Brandon Miller, though, doesn't come off like a guy with a big ego. He's authentically humble, dedicated, and grateful. Truthfully, working for his dream doesn't leave much time for - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Robert Richard](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-robert-richard/): If you’ve ever been staring through a windshield onto the open racetrack ahead, you understand how drag racing can extend a few intense seconds into a lifelong memory. For those lucky enough to be caught in the crosshairs of Robert Richard’s viewfinder, that millisecond of action will be expertly immortalized in an effort to transport - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Mellie Snedeker](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-mellie-snedeker/): Drag racing wasn’t something Mellie Snedeker was born into – it was something she discovered, chased, and built a life around. Now 29, she’s carved out a space in the creative side of the sport, using photography, writing, and social media to tell the stories behind some of drag racing’s biggest moments. Editor's Note: This - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Johnny Thompson Jr.](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-johnny-thompson-jr/): At 29 years old, Johnny “Lil JT” Thompson Jr. is living two racing careers at once. He’s the driver of the “Lil Fugitive” ’04 Mustang Cobra, a nitrous-fed, small-block-powered no-time car, and he’s the crew chief and tuner for the “Big Fugitive” Pro Mod driven by his father, longtime Mississippi racer JT Thompson. Together, the - [Jacob McNeal Enjoys First Winter Series Experience, Hungry For More](https://dragillustrated.com/jacob-mcneal-enjoys-first-winter-series-experience-hungry-for-more/): Coming off a remarkable Pro Mod rookie season in the Mid-West Drag Racing Series (MWDRS), Jacob McNeal entered the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks with plenty of momentum, driving the screw-blown ’71 Cuda out of the Jon Stouffer Racing camp. But even after a year in which he narrowly missed out on a - [Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Goes Deep Into the 8s, Redefines What a Production Car Can Do at the Drag Strip](https://dragillustrated.com/chevrolet-corvette-zr1x-goes-deep-into-the-8s-redefines-what-a-production-car-can-do-at-the-drag-strip/): Every so often, a factory-built car shows up at a drag strip and completely resets expectations. Not nudges them forward. Not “pretty quick for a street car.” Completely rewrites the conversation. That’s exactly what happened when Chevrolet rolled the new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X onto the starting line at US 131 Motorsports Park. The result?An 8.675-second quarter-mile at 159.5 mph - in a - [Back From The Drawing Board, Jimmy Taylor Is Ready For Upcoming U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/back-from-the-drawing-board-jimmy-taylor-is-ready-for-upcoming-u-s-street-nationals/): Heading into the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service at Bradenton Motorsports Park, few – if any – drivers had more hype surrounding them than Jimmy Taylor. In the months leading up to the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, the first race of the DI Winter Series, Taylor and tuner - [Melling Performance Partners With Drag Illustrated Winter Series to Launch Lil Gangstas Championship Series](https://dragillustrated.com/melling-performance-partners-with-drag-illustrated-winter-series-to-launch-lil-gangstas-championship-series/): Drag Illustrated, Melling Performance, and promoters Tom Gunner and Michael Poland have teamed up to deliver the Lil Gangstas Championship Series presented by Melling Performance for the 2025-26 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, race officials announced today. The points champion at the end of the three-race series will earn $10,000 and a - [Jerry Bickel Race Cars Owner Rick Hord Dishes On Jason Harris, JBRC Clean Sweep Challenge](https://dragillustrated.com/jerry-bickel-race-cars-owner-rick-hord-dishes-on-jason-harris-jbrc-clean-sweep-challenge/): Prior to the 2025-26 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, Jerry Bickel Race Cars owner Rick Hord announced one of the biggest incentives in Pro Modified history with the Jerry Bickel Clean Sweep Challenge. If any driver earns the No. 1 qualifying position at all three Winter Series events, that racer will receive - [Reigning NHRA Pro Stock Champion Dallas Glenn Set to Make Pro Mod Debut at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/reigning-nhra-pro-stock-champion-dallas-glenn-set-to-make-pro-mod-debut-at-u-s-street-nationals/): Reigning NHRA Pro Stock world champion Dallas Glenn will add a new chapter to his racing résumé this weekend, making his Pro Modified debut at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, the second of three races in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Glenn will be driving the J&A Service - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Bobby Savedra III](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-bobby-savedra-iii/): There were plenty of things to do around his family’s home near Tulsa, Oklahoma, but a teenage Bobby Savedra III chose to spend time working on street cars with his father. They spent hour upon hour in the garage turning wrenches, and as soon as he was 16, Savedra purchased a 2005 Mustang GT and - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 411 | Victor Alvarez Joins Talking US Streets!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-411-victor-alvarez-joins-talking-us-streets/): THE WES BUCK SHOW EPISODE 411“WINTER HEAT AND STREET WARS” NEW YEAR. NEW WEEK. SAME FULL SEND ENERGY. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we are gearing up for one of the most anticipated races of the winter as U.S. Street Nationals takes over Bradenton Motorsports Park. This is race number two of the - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Taylor Strange](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-taylor-strange/): A third-generation drag racer, Taylor Strange grew up immersed in the sport, as his grandfather raced at the outlaw George Ray’s Wildcat Dragstrip in Arkansas and his father carried the family tradition forward. Strange is also a driver, but his most rewarding moments in the sport have come as a crew member helping family-based team - [U.S. Street Nationals Set to Ignite Bradenton as Winter Series, Radial Outlaws Seasons Collide](https://dragillustrated.com/u-s-street-nationals-set-to-ignite-bradenton-as-winter-series-radial-outlaws-seasons-collide/): The 2026 eighth-mile doorslammer season is set to begin this weekend as Bradenton Motorsports Park hosts the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, Jan. 22-25. It’s the second of three races in the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, a Pro Mod championship series paying out more than $300,000 in total - [Stroud Safety Acquires White Safety; Brand to Continue Serving Entry-Level Racers from Oklahoma City](https://dragillustrated.com/stroud-safety-acquires-white-safety-brand-to-continue-serving-entry-level-racers-from-oklahoma-city/): Stroud Safety has acquired White Safety, expanding its presence in motorsports safety while continuing to support racers entering the sport and those seeking accessible safety solutions. White Safety will continue operating from Oklahoma City and remain focused on providing reliable, cost-effective motorsports safety equipment for grassroots and entry-level racers. The acquisition is intended to strengthen - [NHRA Kicks Off Top 75 Drivers Reveal as First Five Additions Are Announced](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-kicks-off-top-75-drivers-reveal-as-first-five-additions-are-announced/): As part of its 75th Anniversary celebration in 2026, the NHRA has officially begun unveiling an expanded list of the Top 75 Drivers in the sanctioning body’s history, marking the first major update to its iconic drivers list since the original Top 50 was announced during NHRA’s 50th Anniversary season in 2001. The first five new additions - [Bob Tasca III Explains Why Austin Prock Was the Only Driver He’d Step Aside For](https://dragillustrated.com/bob-tasca-iii-explains-why-austin-prock-was-the-only-driver-hed-step-aside-for/): In a sport where seats are rarely surrendered willingly - especially at the championship level - Bob Tasca III made it clear that his decision to turn over Funny Car driving duties wasn’t driven by circumstance, pressure, or corporate maneuvering. It was driven by conviction. Standing on stage at the Ford Racing Season Launch ’26 - [Jon Schaffer Named Crew Chief For Paul Lee's NHRA Funny Car Team](https://dragillustrated.com/jon-schaffer-named-crew-chief-for-paul-lees-nhra-funny-car-team/): Paul Lee Racing is proud to announce that veteran tuner Jon Schaffer has been named Crew Chief for the team’s Nitro Funny Car entry in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Schaffer will lead the team alongside longtime consultant John Medlen and Assistant Crew Chief Seth Randall, forming a highly experienced and collaborative performance - [Richard Freeman Weighs In On Elite Motorsports Million Ahead of U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/richard-freeman-weighs-in-on-elite-motorsports-million-ahead-of-u-s-street-nationals/): The chase for the Elite Motorsports Million is officially on. With a commanding victory at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, the opening race of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, Jason Harris became the lone driver still eligible for the million-dollar bonus offered by Elite Motorsports to any racer - [FastTz Joins SCAG Racing as Associate Partner on Justin Ashley's SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel Dragster](https://dragillustrated.com/fasttz-joins-scag-racing-as-associate-partner-on-justin-ashleys-scag-power-equipment-top-fuel-dragster/): SCAG Racing announced Monday that FastTz has teamed up with Justin Ashley and his SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel Dragster as an associate partner for the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series. FastTz, a professional printing and embroidery company specializing in custom apparel and signage, will play a key role in supporting the SCAG - [NHRA Canada National Open Series Announces 2026 Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-canada-national-open-series-announces-2026-schedule/): The countdown to 2026 is officially on. From coast to coast, the NHRA Canada National Open Series returns with another thrilling season of side-by-side drag racing, championship battles, and unforgettable weekends at Canada’s premier drag strips. Powered by the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series, this year’s schedule brings together the best racers in the country - [PHOTO GALLERY: Locked-In Drag Racing Series Launches 2026 With Strong Showing at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-locked-in-drag-racing-series-launches-2026-with-strong-showing-at-famoso/): The Locked-In Drag Racing Series kicked off its 2026 campaign January 10–11 with a two-day season opener at Famoso Dragstrip, where sunshine and cool high-50-degree temperatures delivered classic winter racing conditions in California’s Central Valley. The stable air and well-prepped surface allowed racers to lean on their combinations as qualifying and eliminations unfolded across a - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Jack Roberts](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-jack-roberts/): Jack Roberts may not have grown up in drag racing like so many of the other honorees who appear on the 30 Under 30 List, but he’s become fully entrenched in the sport as a rising star tuner, specifically in the world of small-tire no-prep racing. Roberts and his Squirrel Tuned brand have put drivers - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Megan Taylor](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-megan-taylor/): At 26, Megan Taylor has already become one of the most trusted creative voices in the performance and drag-and-drive world. As the younger sister of driver, builder, and TV personality Alex Taylor, Megan has spent the last decade documenting the story of her family’s racing journey through a camera lens. Starting in the drag-and-drive world - [Kirk Wolf Back With Dubbin Motorsports For Nine-Race National Event Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/kirk-wolf-back-with-dubbin-motorsports-for-nine-race-national-event-schedule/): Dubbin Motorsports will return to NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster competition in 2026 with driver Kirk Wolf, marking his fourth season in the team’s A/Fuel Dragster. The Minnesota-based team will run nine NHRA Lucas Oil Series National Events and one Lucas Oil Series Regional Event, with the possibility of adding additional regional races depending on championship - [Small Tire Pro Stock Secures Six Races For Highly Anticipated Second Season](https://dragillustrated.com/small-tire-tire-pro-stock-secures-six-races-for-highly-anticipated-second-season/): After creating a class to call home, Small Tire Pro Stock racers captured attention at tracks across the country in 2025 in cars with high-revving and high-horsepower naturally aspirated engines. One pass at a time, they proved what they are made of, and now, they are preparing for a showstopping second season of racing in - [Amalie Motor Oil Returns as Title Sponsor For NHRA Gatornationals to Open 75th NHRA Season](https://dragillustrated.com/amalie-motor-oil-returns-as-title-sponsor-for-nhra-gatornationals-to-open-75th-nhra-season/): NHRA announced today that Amalie Motor Oil will continue as the title sponsor of this year’s 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals to open NHRA’s historic 75th anniversary season. The Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals will take place March 5-8 at legendary Gainesville Raceway, opening the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season for the fourth consecutive - [Jimmy Taylor Edges Out Jason Harris For Thursday Provisional No. 1 Spot at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/jimmy-taylor-edges-out-jason-harris-for-thursday-provisional-no-1-spot-at-u-s-street-nationals/): By one thousandth of a second, doorslammer world record holder Jimmy Taylor charged to the provisional No. 1 qualifier position Thursday night at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission at Bradenton Motorsports Park, earning the $5,000 Pro Line Racing “Off The Trailer” Bonus. He edged out Jason Harris, who qualified No. 1 and - [Jimmy Taylor Stays No. 1 as U.S. Street Nationals Records First All-3.50-Second 32-Car Pro Mod Field](https://dragillustrated.com/jimmy-taylor-stays-no-1-as-u-s-street-nationals-records-first-all-3-50-second-32-car-pro-mod-field/): Pro Mod racers at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission made history Friday night at Bradenton Motorsports Park as the bump spot fell to a 3.597-second pass, establishing the first-ever all-3.50-second 32-car field. Though numerous drivers improved during the two Friday qualifying sessions, Thursday’s provisional No. 1 qualifier Jimmy Taylor held on to - [Side-By-Side 3.50-Second Races Highlight First Round of Pro Mod Eliminations at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/side-by-side-3-50-second-races-highlight-first-round-of-pro-mod-eliminations-at-u-s-street-nationals/): Following historic Pro Mod qualifying that resulted in the sport’s first all-3.50-second 32-car field, the first round of eliminations at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission featured several side-by-side 3.50-second races between some of the biggest names in doorslammer racing. The second of three races in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by - [Wes Buck: U.S. Street Nationals ‘A Legacy-Defining Moment’ for Drag Illustrated Winter Series](https://dragillustrated.com/wes-buck-u-s-street-nationals-a-legacy-defining-moment-for-drag-illustrated-winter-series/): As the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service heads into its second act, Drag Illustrated founder and promoter Wes Buck believes the upcoming U.S. Street Nationals represents far more than another stop on the calendar. Following a record-setting Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, Buck says the Winter Series has rapidly evolved - [Nationwide, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Partner With Doug Herbert's B.R.A.K.E.S. to Tackle Teen Distracted Driving](https://dragillustrated.com/nationwide-dale-earnhardt-jr-partner-with-doug-herberts-b-r-a-k-e-s-to-tackle-teen-distracted-driving/): January is Teen Driving Awareness month and Nationwide is partnering with one of motorsports’ most recognizable names, Dale Earnhardt Jr., on a new multimedia campaign designed to deliver a simple message to teen drivers: put the phone down when you’re driving. The multimedia campaign was filmed at zMAX Dragway using a course designed by B.R.A.K.E.S., a teen driver - [IHRA Leases Pulaski County Motorsports Park](https://dragillustrated.com/ihra-leases-pulaski-county-motorsports-park/): The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced it has entered into a lease agreement for the Pulaski County Motorsports Park, the landmark venue long known to racers and fans as the Motor Mile Speedway, marking a major step in IHRA’s mission to revive grassroots motorsports and reinvest in legendary community tracks. “This track is - [Alan Reinhart Show to Join CompetitionPlusTV Network on February 4th](https://dragillustrated.com/alan-reinhart-show-to-join-competitionplustv-network-on-february-4th/): Last night during the Power Hour podcast on the CompetitionPlusTV Network hosts Lee Craft and Dujunnea Bland were joined by legendary drag racing announcer Alan Reinhart to announce a new addition to the CompetitionPlusTV Network. On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET, The Alan Reinhart Show will debut with multi-time Funny Car Champion - [Antron Brown, AB Motorsports Announce 2026 Partnership with Red Line Oil](https://dragillustrated.com/antron-brown-ab-motorsports-announces-2026-partnership-with-red-line-oil/): AB Motorsports, owned and operated by Antron Brown, announced today a new partnership with Red Line Oil, beginning with the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. Founded in racing and trusted across decades of competition, Red Line Oil joins AB Motorsports and Fuel as its oil partner, bringing together two brands built on performance, consistency, and a shared belief that - [Ron Capps, Maddi Gordon Featured in New VICE TV Docuseries Chasing Speed](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-maddi-gordon-featured-in-new-vice-tv-docuseries-chasing-speed/): Ron Capps Motorsports drivers Ron Capps and Maddi Gordon will appear in prominent roles in the new docuseries, Chasing Speed, premiering Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 9 p.m. ET on VICE TV. Consisting of six hour-long episodes, Chasing Speed dives into the fast-paced world of 330-mph professional NHRA Drag Racing. While the series captures no shortage of on-track intensity, many - [Scott Palmer Gains Momentum Heading into U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/scott-palmer-gains-momentum-heading-into-u-s-street-nationals/): Veteran drag racer Scott Palmer took an important step forward with his Pro Mod program last month at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, making his first appearance in the J&A Service screw-blown ’69 Camaro owned by Jim and Annie Whiteley. Now, with extensive test laps behind him, “The People’s Champ” heads into - [NHRA Stars Ring NYSE Opening Bell Leading Into 'Chasing Speed' Premiere on VICE TV](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-stars-ring-nyse-opening-bell-leading-into-chasing-speed-premiere-on-vice-tv/): Heading into its 75th anniversary season, the celebratory kickoff to the milestone year gets underway with the highly-anticipated premiere of “Chasing Speed,” a six-part docuseries that premiered Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET on VICE TV. Top Fuel world champion Doug Kalitta and Funny Car world champ Austin Prock helped celebrate the start of NHRA’s 75th - [WATCH: Episode 1 of VICE's New 'Chasing Speed' Docuseries](https://dragillustrated.com/watch-episode-1-of-vices-new-chasing-speed-docuseries/): VICE officially debuted its new NHRA docuseries Chasing Speed Wednesday night, pulling fans deep inside drag racing’s most brutal and breathtaking arena. The premiere episode traces the sport’s relentless quest for speed as NHRA approaches its 75th anniversary, spotlighting icons like John Force and the next generation carrying the torch — including Brittany Force and rising star - [Thursday Qualifying Results - 2026 U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/thursday-qualifying-results-2026-u-s-street-nationals/): It's day one of the 2026 U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, the second of three races in the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Thursday's schedule includes two qualifying sessions for the FuelTech Radial Outlaws Racing Series classes and Pro 10.5, as well as one Pro - [Saturday Results - 2026 U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/saturday-results-2026-u-s-street-nationals/): The U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission continues at Bradenton Motorsports Park including Pro Mod final qualifying, opening rounds of eliminations in the FuelTech Radial Outlaws Racing Series drag radial classes, and the first round of eliminations in Pro Mod, Pro 10.5, True 10.5, and Lil Gangstas. Pro Mod completed its final qualifying session - [Manny Buginga to Make Pro Mod Return at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/manny-buginga-to-make-pro-mod-return-at-u-s-street-nationals/): Manny Buginga will return to the Pro Modified ranks this weekend at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, the second of three races in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Buginga will be piloting his patented red ProCharger-powered Mustang named “Frank” at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Buginga, who won the N/T - [New VICE TV Docuseries 'Chasing Speed' to Feature Jasmine Salinas](https://dragillustrated.com/new-vice-tv-docuseries-chasing-speed-to-feature-jasmine-salinas/): Top Fuel pilot Jasmine Salinas is one of several professional drag racers featured in a new docuseries co-produced by VICE TV and NHRA. Chasing Speed premieres this evening on VICE TV. The six-episode series gives viewers an inside look at the sport of drag racing, following teams and drivers as they chase glory throughout the 2025 NHRA - [John Force Racing Announces Crew Chief Lineup For NHRA's 75th Anniversary Season](https://dragillustrated.com/john-force-racing-announces-crew-chief-lineup-for-nhras-75th-anniversary-season/): John Force Racing rolls into a new era of competition for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season with an expanded lineup of drivers, crew chiefs and crew who collectively have the singular focus of winning for the 24-time championship organization. “This is a great time to be part of John Force Racing - [Friday Qualifying Results - 2026 U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/friday-qualifying-results-2026-u-s-street-nationals/): The 2026 U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission at Bradenton Motorsports Park continues Friday with more qualifying. It's the second of three races in the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, along with the season opener for the FuelTech Radial Outlaws Racing Series. Friday's schedule includes two qualifying sessions for Pro - [WSOPM Champ Spencer Hyde Reaches Elite Eight at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/wsopm-champ-spencer-hyde-reaches-elite-eight-at-u-s-street-nationals/): Pro Mod standout Spencer Hyde delivered an impressive performance at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, January 22-25 at Bradenton Motorsports Park, advancing to the quarterfinals in one of the most competitive Pro Mod events in history, losing to eventual winner Stevie “Fast” Jackson. The race marked the second event of the Drag - [U.S. 131 Motorsports Park Retains Steve Earwood as Consultant](https://dragillustrated.com/u-s-131-motorsports-park-retains-steve-earwood-as-consultant/): In a move designed to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive motorsports market, US 131 Motorsports Park has announced the retention of long-time industry executive Steve Earwood as consultant to VP of Operations Jason Peterson. Earwood, former National Media Relations Director for the NHRA and, for more than 30 years, the owner/operator of Rockingham - [US 60 Dragway Announces Leadership Update, Names Jeb Bolyard General Manager](https://dragillustrated.com/us-60-dragway-announces-leadership-update-names-jeb-bolyard-general-manager/): US 60 Dragway has announced a leadership update as part of its continued commitment to growth and operational excellence, naming Jeb Bolyard as the facility’s new general manager, effective April 1. Bolyard brings a strong background in drag racing operations, a deep understanding of racer needs, and a proven commitment to delivering a high-quality racing - [Todd Lesenko Returns to Jim Dunn Racing For 2026 NHRA Funny Car Campaign](https://dragillustrated.com/todd-lesenko-returns-to-jim-dunn-racing-for-2026-nhra-funny-car-campaign/): Jim Dunn Racing has announced that Todd Lesenko will pilot the team’s Funny Car for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. A native of Edmonton, Alberta, Lesenko competed in the NHRA Funny Car class in 2012 for Jim Dunn Racing, so 2026 marks a homecoming for Lesenko and the iconic racing team. - [Eric Gustafson Feeling Confident Back in Driver's Seat Going Into U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/eric-gustafson-feeling-confident-back-in-drivers-seat-going-into-u-s-street-nationals/): After two years away from the driver’s seat, Eric Gustafson made a powerful return to Pro Modified competition at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, quickly proving that the time away has done nothing to hinder his performance. The 2020 NMCA Xtreme Pro Mod champion qualified No. 5 in a loaded Pro Mod - [Stevie ‘Fast’ Jackson Wheels ‘Shadow 3.0’ to $75,000 U.S. Street Nationals Pro Mod Victory](https://dragillustrated.com/stevie-fast-jackson-wheels-shadow-3-0-to-75000-u-s-street-nationals-pro-mod-victory/): Less than a year after racing to a runner-up finish at the $150,000 2025 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, Stevie “Fast” Jackson took his screw-blown Motion Raceworks “Shadow 3.0” ’68 Camaro to the $75,000 winner’s circle Sunday night at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission. Jackson won with a 3.566-second pass - [Red Line Oil Joins Hull Racing For 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/red-line-oil-joins-hull-racing-for-2026-season/): Buddy Hull, owner and Funny Car driver announced today that Red Line Oil has joined Hull Racing as an official partner for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, beginning with the historic NHRA Gatornationals. Red Line Oil, known worldwide for its industry-leading synthetic lubricants and unmatched performance in the most demanding motorsports environments, - [Jason Harris Reflects on First Elite Motorsports Million Attempt](https://dragillustrated.com/jason-harris-reflects-on-first-elite-motorsports-million-attempt/): Pro Modified’s first million-dollar prize will have to wait at least another year, as Snowbird Outlaw Nationals winner Jason Harris’s attempt at the inaugural Elite Motorsports Million came to an end Sunday when he lost in the second round at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission at Bradenton Motorsports Park. After winning the - [Motorcycle Drag Racer Dystany Spurlock Aims For Historic NASCAR ARCA Series Bid ](https://dragillustrated.com/motorcycle-drag-racer-dystany-spurlock-aims-for-historic-nascar-arca-series-bid/): Professional motorcycle drag racer Dystany Spurlock is beginning the journey to fulfill a lifelong dream of racing in NASCAR’s Cup Series, taking the first steps on that path as she prepares to compete in the ARCA Menards Series during the 2026 season. Instead of a one-time debut, Spurlock will take a step-by-step approach, starting with - [Reed, Zetterström to Share Driving Duties of Reed Trucking & Excavating Top Fuel Dragster](https://dragillustrated.com/reed-zetterstrom-to-share-driving-duties-of-reed-trucking-excavating-top-fuel-dragster/): BROWNSBURG, Ind. – The Shawn Reed Racing Top Fuel team will run the full 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule with Shawn Reed and Ida Zetterström sharing driving duties of the Reed Trucking & Excavating dragster throughout the season, it was announced today. Reed will scale back from full-time touring and compete on - [Huge List of Legends Set to Appear at Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/huge-list-of-legends-set-to-appear-at-amalie-motor-oil-nhra-gatornationals/): GAINESVILLE, Fla. – An incredible list of NHRA legends will help kick off NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, as some of the biggest names in NHRA history will be appearing at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals on March 5-8 at famed Gainesville Raceway. Don Garlits, Don Prudhomme, Kenny Bernstein, Shirley Muldowney, Joe Amato, Darrell Gwynn - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Kyle Wade](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-kyle-wade/): Kyle Wade, the racer and fabricator behind the massively popular BoostedBoiz YouTube channel – now at 1.45 million subscribers – has turned unlikely platforms like a Honda Civic, Toyota MR2, and even a Honda Odyssey minivan into fan-favorite, record-setting machines. But the numbers only tell part of the story. Editor's Note: This story originally appeared - [Saving The Day: How Matthew Herrick, Modern Racing Got Manny Buginga's 'Freddy' Back on Track](https://dragillustrated.com/saving-the-day-how-matthew-herrick-modern-racing-got-manny-bugingas-freddy-back-on-track/): When Manny Buginga’s red Mustang “Freddy” slammed the wall during SwanFest at Rockingham Dragway, it looked like the weekend was over. Instead, Matthew Herrick of Modern Racing turned a mangled front end into a working race car in less than 14 hours – then drove back to Rockingham to watch it go back down the - [Summit Racing Equipment Continues Partnership With Daniel Wilkerson For 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/summit-racing-equipment-continues-partnership-with-daniel-wilkerson-for-2026/): Daniel Wilkerson and SCAG Racing are excited to welcome back Summit Racing Equipment as an associate sponsor of the SCAG Power Equipment Funny Car for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. A longtime supporter of Wilkerson, Summit Racing Equipment has played an integral role throughout his career, supplying key components essential to - [John Medlen Joins AB Motorsports as Consultant For 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/john-medlen-joins-ab-motorsports-as-consultant-for-2026-season/): AB Motorsports, owned and driven by four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown, announced today that veteran crew chief and program advisor John Medlen has joined the organization as a consultant for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. Medlen, a respected leader in nitro racing for over three decades, brings hands-on experience, deep - [NHRA to Honor Iconic John Force in 2027 With '50 Years of Force' Celebration](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-to-honor-iconic-john-force-in-2027-with-50-years-of-force-celebration/): Even as NHRA prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary season in 2026 and highlight some of the sport’s biggest legends, the 2027 season is already shaping up for another year-long epic celebration with one of motorsports’ most iconic figures. NHRA announced today that the 2027 season will honor the sport’s winningest star, legendary 16-time Funny - [Mac Tools Renews Partnership With Justin Ashley, Daniel Wilkerson For 2026 NHRA Season](https://dragillustrated.com/mac-tools-renews-partnership-with-justin-ashley-daniel-wilkerson-for-2026-nhra-season/): SCAG Racing is excited to announce the renewal of Justin Ashley and Daniel Wilkerson’s partnerships with Mac Tools for the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season. Mac Tools has supported Ashley since 2023 and Wilkerson throughout his entire career, providing high-quality professional tools that help both SCAG Power Equipment teams assemble, maintain, and - [$25,000 Wild Card Shootout Added to Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/25000-wild-card-shootout-added-to-drag-illustrated-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Bradenton, Fla. - Drag Illustrated has announced the addition of the $25,000 Winter Series Wild Card Shootout to the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, further expanding race-day opportunities and reinforcing the Winter Series’ commitment to delivering the most competitive and inclusive Pro Modified program in drag racing. The new Wild Card Shootout will - [UMTR North to Celebrate 2025 Champions, Announces 2026 Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/umtr-north-to-celebrate-2025-champions-announces-2026-schedule/): On February 7th, UMTR North will host its Champions Celebration to honor the accomplishments of the 2025 racing season. This past year featured an incredibly tight points race that came down to the wire in both classes. In the Quick Stick category, Tim O’Neal took home the top honor in his Chevy Vega, narrowly defeating - [UMTR South Announces 2026 Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/umtr-south-announces-2026-schedule/): The stick-shift-focused racers of the UMTR South are gearing up for a full slate of events in 2026. The series recently announced its 2026 schedule for the Quick Stick and Street Stick classes. 2026 UMTR South Schedule May 2 – Darana Raceway, Xenia, OH May 9 – Darana Raceway, Hebron, OH (North vs. South Nationals) - [“GREY BULLET” RX9 DESTROYS ROTARY RECORD](https://dragillustrated.com/grey-bullet-rx9-destroys-rotary-record/): Less than eight weeks after Edwin Burgos posted the first-ever five-second rotary-powered quarter-mile, Joel Olivo watched his Siquitraqui Motorsports “Grey Bullet” 2021 Mazda RX9 surpass the 5.956 world record held by the “Loquito Killer” RX8 with a blistering 5.935 at Orlando SpeedWorld in Bithlo, Florida. With renowned import racer Juan “Juanchy” Illanas at the wheel, - [Cole Pesz Captures $40,000 “Cinderella” Win at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/cole-pesz-captures-40000-cinderella-win-at-u-s-street-nationals/): In what was undoubtedly the greatest example of perseverance at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, Cole Pesz went from the doctor’s office to the winner’s circle at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Just a few days after crashing the screw-blown ‘18 Corvette owned by Mark Gobert during pre-race testing, Pesz navigated five grueling rounds - [The Legend of Todd Tutterow Continues With 2025 Big Dog Shootout Title](https://dragillustrated.com/the-legend-of-todd-tutterow-continues-with-2025-big-dog-shootout-title/): In the 20-plus seasons that Piedmont Dragway’s Big Dog Shootout has been held on the first Thursday night of the month, many names have risen to the top, catapulting them to bigger events on a much bigger stage. One name that comes to mind is Travis Harvey winning his very first time in NHRA Pro - [7 Reasons Why the Winter Series Has Rewritten the Competitive Ceiling in Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/7-reasons-why-the-winter-series-has-rewritten-the-competitive-ceiling-in-drag-racing/): There’s a difference between a great race and a great field. Wins come and go. Records get broken and eventually replaced. But when the margin between qualifying and going home shrinks to the point that elite teams are separated by thousandths of a second, something more meaningful is happening. That’s no longer about who won - [Top Fuel All-Star Callout Returns to Open NHRA's 75th Anniversary Season at Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/top-fuel-all-star-callout-returns-to-open-nhras-75th-anniversary-season-at-gainesville/): As part of the season-opening kickoff to NHRA’s 75th anniversary in 2026, the NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout returns to Gainesville Raceway, taking place on Saturday, March 7 as part of the 56th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. The specialty race features a loaded eight-car field, including defending Callout winner and reigning world champion - [Speedmaster Signs Multi-Year Partnership With John Force Racing as Co-Primary Sponsor of Josh Hart's Top Fuel Dragster](https://dragillustrated.com/speedmaster-signs-multi-year-partnership-with-john-force-racing-as-co-primary-sponsor-of-josh-harts-top-fuel-dragster/): John Force Racing and Speedmaster have reached agreement on a multi-year partnership for the global leader in high-performance automotive parts and motorsports culture to serve as the co-primary sponsor, with Burnyzz Speed Shop, of the Top Fuel Dragster team driven by Josh Hart in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Hart and the Burnyzz - [Doug Foley Announces Addition of Ron Douglas as Consultant to Foley Lewis Racing Top Fuel Team](https://dragillustrated.com/doug-foley-announces-addition-of-ron-douglas-as-consultant-to-foley-lewis-racing-top-fuel-team/): Veteran nitro crew chief Ron Douglas will join Doug Foley’s Foley Lewis Racing Top Fuel team as a consultant for the 2026 season, the team announced today. Douglas joins a proven group led by longtime Foley Lewis Racing crew chief Doug Kuch as the team prepares for what Foley describes as a “rebuilding year” beginning - [Famed March Meet Set For Historic 68th Installment March 5-8](https://dragillustrated.com/famed-march-meet-set-for-historic-68th-installment-march-5-8/): One of the most iconic and significant drag racing events in the country, the Good Vibrations Motorsports March Meet, will return to Famoso Dragstrip, March 5-8, 2026. The 68th edition will feature Heritage Series and Nitro categories as well as a car show, swap meet and vendor row. While the NHRA celebrates its 75th year of professional - [Red Line Oil Named Presenting Sponsor of World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/red-line-oil-named-presenting-sponsor-of-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Red Line Oil, producers of high-performance motor oil and lubricants, has been named the presenting sponsor of the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, race officials announced today. Set for Feb. 26-28 at Bradenton Motorsports Park, the $150,000-to-win Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil serves as the grand - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: Joel Wensley Jr.](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-joel-wensley-jr/): Joel Wensley Jr. was 14 when he began going to the track with his father, Joel Sr., to help his uncle, Bill Stetz, campaign his drag bike. He was enthralled by the entire experience, from the revving engines to the racing excitement, and he was immediately inspired to immerse himself in the magnetizing world of - [DI 30 Under 30 2025: John Vergotz Jr.](https://dragillustrated.com/di-30-under-30-2025-john-vergotz-jr/): For John Vergotz Jr., drag racing has always been part of life. His father, veteran nitrous Pro Mod driver John Vergotz, has long been a fixture in doorslammer racing and now competes in PDRA Pro Nitrous, IHRA Pro Nitrous, and other eighth-mile Pro Mod events with a Pat Musi–powered ’69 Camaro. Editor's Note: This story - [Famoso Hosts Historic Weekend as First NHRA 75th Anniversary Diamond Wallys Are Awarded](https://dragillustrated.com/famoso-hosts-historic-weekend-as-first-nhra-75th-anniversary-diamond-wallys-are-awarded/): The NHRA Junior Championship Series opened its season with a historic weekend at Famoso Dragstrip, where the first 75th Anniversary Diamond Wally trophies ever awarded by NHRA — in any category — were presented following completion of Race No. 1 and Race No. 2. After weather delayed the start of racing Saturday, competitors returned Sunday morning to finish Race No. - [ARP Continues Support of Grassroots Drag Racing](https://dragillustrated.com/arp-continues-support-of-grassroots-drag-racing/): While ARP (Automotive Racing Products) has long been an NHRA Major Sponsor, posting for use of its head studs (or bolts) for all Sportsman categories at all National events, the company also supports grassroots racers in other venues. At the upcoming Good Vibrations March Meet, to be held on March 5-8 at Famoso Dragstrip near - [NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League Releases 2026 Schedule](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-summit-racing-jr-drag-racing-league-releases-2026-schedule/): INDIANAPOLIS – NHRA announced the season schedule for the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League, featuring a host of special events in 2026 as Summit Racing Equipment returns as the title sponsor of the popular racing league for youth ages 5-17. Now in its 34th year entering the NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, the NHRA - [Wally Parks 75th Anniversary Appreciation Fund Part of $27 Million Overall Purse for NHRA Racers During Milestone Year](https://dragillustrated.com/wally-parks-75th-anniversary-appreciation-fund-part-of-27-million-overall-purse-for-nhra-racers-during-milestone-year/): INDIANAPOLIS – NHRA announced the introduction of the Wally Parks 75th Anniversary Appreciation Fund for 2026’s milestone season, a special initiative that will pay out $500,000 over the course of the celebratory year and recognize teams in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series who continue to carry forward Parks’ illustrious legacy. In all, more than - [75th Anniversary Celebration Kickoff at Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals Features Garlits’ Swamp Rat Alley](https://dragillustrated.com/75th-anniversary-celebration-kickoff-at-amalie-motor-oil-nhra-gatornationals-features-garlits-swamp-rat-alley/): GAINESVILLE, Fla. – To start the 75th anniversary celebration, NHRA will open the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season in grand style at famed Gainesville Raceway for the 57th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals on March 5-8. NHRA will pay homage to some of its legendary names during the milestone year, starting in - [Torrence Racing Announces Billy Torrence as Pilot of the CAPCO Contractors Top Fuel Dragster](https://dragillustrated.com/torrence-racing-announces-billy-torrence-as-pilot-of-the-capco-contractors-top-fuel-dragster/): Torrence Racing is proud to announce that Billy Torrence will pilot the CAPCO Contractors Top Fuel dragster for the 2026 season, beginning with the NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida, part of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Torrence, father of four-time world champion Steve Torrence, has earned eight career Top Fuel victories. The resident - [Doug Foley Transitions to Team Owner Role; Gary Pritchett Named 2026 Top Fuel Driver](https://dragillustrated.com/doug-foley-transitions-to-team-owner-role-gary-pritchett-named-2026-top-fuel-driver/): Doug Foley Racing announced today that Doug Foley will transition from driving duties to a full-time team owner role beginning with the 2026 season. Gary Pritchett has been named driver of the team’s Top Fuel dragster. “We are going to do a driver swap in 2026,” Foley said. “I am going to get out of the - [OP-ED: Chasing Speed and the Moment NHRA Finally Bet on its People](https://dragillustrated.com/op-ed-chasing-speed-and-the-moment-nhra-finally-bet-on-its-people/): For as long as I’ve had a front-row seat to this sport - for as long as I’ve watched drag racing try to claw its way into the modern attention economy with one hand tied behind its back - I’ve been saying the same thing like a broken record: we don’t have a racing problem. - [Stevie ‘Fast’ Jackson Changes Cars Ahead of World Series of Pro Mod](https://dragillustrated.com/stevie-fast-jackson-changes-cars-ahead-of-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Stevie “Fast” Jackson, the most recent winner in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, will not be in his familiar, fan-favorite Motion Raceworks “Shadow 3.0” ’68 Camaro when he rolls through the water box for Q1 at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil. As announced - [WATCH: Episode Three of Vice's 'Chasing Speed' NHRA Docuseries](https://dragillustrated.com/watch-episode-three-of-vices-chasing-speed-nhra-docuseries/): VICE’s Chasing Speed shifts the spotlight in Episode Three, diving headfirst into the high-risk, high-pressure world of the NHRA nitro classes through the eyes of the women rewriting the script. From rookie nerves to hard-earned confidence, the episode follows drivers like Julie Nataas, Ida Zetterström, Alexis DeJoria, and Jasmine Salinas as they navigate Top Fuel and Funny - [Drag Illustrated Winter Series Lil’ Gangstas Points Champion To Be Featured in No Limit Drag Racing Video Game](https://dragillustrated.com/drag-illustrated-winter-series-lil-gangstas-points-champion-to-be-featured-in-no-limit-drag-racing-video-game/): Drag Illustrated and No Limit Drag Racing are once again bridging the gap between real-world competition and digital horsepower – this time with a major expansion to an already powerful tradition. Beginning in 2026, the points champion of the Lil’ Gangstas Championship Series presented by Melling Performance at the Drag Illustrated Winter Series will be - [Ryan Martin and Murder Nova Discuss New Outlaw Syndicate Small Tire Series](https://dragillustrated.com/ryan-martin-and-murder-nova-discuss-new-outlaw-syndicate-small-tire-series/): When the hit television shows Street Outlaws and No Prep Kings stopped filming after 15 seasons, many fans wondered what would be next for their beloved drivers. Two of its most popular stars – Ryan Martin and Shawn “Murder Nova” Ellington – didn’t waste much time getting back to doing what they’ve always done: Race. - [ProCharger Joins World Series of Pro Mod as Associate Sponsor](https://dragillustrated.com/procharger-joins-world-series-of-pro-mod-as-associate-sponsor/): ProCharger, manufacturers of high-performance centrifugal superchargers, will serve as an associate sponsor of the upcoming Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, race officials announced today. With more than 70 drivers competing for the $150,000 winner-take-all prize, the World Series of Pro Mod is the ultimate proving ground for eighth-mile - [WATCH: Episode 4 of VICE's 'Chasing Speed' NHRA Docuseries](https://dragillustrated.com/watch-episode-4-of-vices-chasing-speed-nhra-docuseries/): There are many different storylines to follow in the world of NHRA Mission Foods Series drag racing, and that much was evident in this week's new episode of Chasing Speed, VICE's NHRA docuseries. From Jasmine Salinas and Ida Zetterström discussing the challenges of finding funding to a behind-the-scenes look at Shawn Reed's harrowing Seattle crash, - [Key Partners Continue Support of Elite Motorsports in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/key-partners-continue-support-of-elite-motorsports-in-2026/): WYNNEWOOD, Okla. – As Elite Motorsports continues to solidify its standing as the largest professional team in the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series, the organization has stayed dedicated to maintaining and building relationships with its longtime partners. Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage, the very best in custom cars, trucks and crate engines, Melling Performance Parts, a - [Kalitta Motorsports, Mac Tools Celebrate 25th Anniversary Season](https://dragillustrated.com/kalitta-motorsports-mac-tools-celebrate-25th-anniversary-season/): YPSILANTI, Mich. – One of the longest-running partnerships in sports marketing history is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026 as Mac Tools continues its decades-long Kalitta Motorsports partnership. The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing season begins March 6-8 at the Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla. Doug Kalitta will once again pilot the red and white - [NHRA Releases Free Streaming Schedule for NHRA.TV and NHRA YouTube Page](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-releases-free-streaming-schedule-for-nhra-tv-and-nhra-youtube-page/): NHRA announced today a continued and comprehensive free coverage plan on NHRA.tv and its NHRA YouTube page starting this weekend for the 2026 season in the popular Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. For the second consecutive year, NHRA will stream more than 30 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series events on either NHRA.tv or the NHRA YouTube page for free - [Banks County Planning Commission Unanimously Recommends Approval For Return of Atlanta Dragway; One More Hearing Scheduled For Final Vote](https://dragillustrated.com/banks-county-planning-commission-unanimously-recommends-approval-for-return-of-atlanta-dragway-one-more-hearing-scheduled-for-final-vote/): The future of the former Atlanta Dragway took a major step forward this past Tuesday when the Banks County Planning Commission unanimously voted to recommend approval for the continued use of the historic property as a racetrack. The vote followed an emotional and packed public hearing that highlighted the track’s deep roots in North Georgia - [Southeast Gassers Association Ready to Wing It with New Wings Etc. Partnership in 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/southeast-gassers-association-ready-to-wing-it-with-new-wings-etc-partnership-in-2026/): Winner winner chicken dinner will be a reality for the Southeast Gassers Association in 2026 with newly formed partnership with Wings Etc. Grill & Pub of Boiling Springs, South Carolina. Wings Etc. is proud to partner with SEGA for race weekend streaming and beyond. With a strong history in motorsports – from local Upstate South - [Jacob McNeal set to join Jeff Diehl Racing for 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/jacob-mcneal-set-to-join-jeff-diehl-racing-for-2026-season/): Pro Modified standout rookie and NHRA Top Fuel driver Jacob McNeal has been officially named by Jeff Diehl Racing as their Nitro Funny Car driver to compete for a points championship in the 2026 IHRA eight-race points series. Legendary Nitro Funny Car driver/owner Jeff “The Surfer” Diehl will continue running at select NHRA races as - [DHL, Kalitta Motorsports Sign Multi-Year Partnership Extension](https://dragillustrated.com/dhl-kalitta-motorsports-sign-multi-year-partnership-extension/): YPSILANTI, Mich. – Two iconic brands that partner on multiple levels in multiple businesses, DHL and Kalitta Motorsports, signed a multi-year contract extension for J.R. Todd’s DHL GR Supra Funny Car, the team announced today. The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series begins March 6-8 at the Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla. What started - [International Hot Rod Association Acquires Atlanta Dragway in Banks County, Georgia](https://dragillustrated.com/international-hot-rod-association-acquires-atlanta-dragway-in-banks-county-georgia/): International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has officially acquired Atlanta Dragway in Banks County, just outside Commerce, Georgia, marking an important step in bringing one of the Southeast’s most historic drag racing facilities back to life. Originally opened in 1976, Atlanta Dragway became a cornerstone of grassroots and national drag racing. Built on land originally graded - [Jasmine Salinas Announces Plans and Crew Chief for 2026 Top Fuel Season](https://dragillustrated.com/jasmine-salinas-announces-plans-and-crew-chief-for-2026-top-fuel-season/): Top Fuel dragster standout Jasmine Salinas is poised to make a powerful return in 2026. The fan-favorite drag racer will compete in a hybrid schedule this season, featuring at least 10 events in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series as well as select appearances in the IHRA Top Fuel category. Salinas will kick off her - [Strange Engineering Named Title-Rights Sponsor of 2026 Lil' Gangstas Event Series](https://dragillustrated.com/strange-engineering-named-title-rights-sponsor-of-2026-lil-gangstas-event-series/): Strange Engineering has doubled down on its long-standing commitment to grassroots drag racing, officially signing on as the title-rights sponsor of the 2026 Lil’ Gangstas Event Series - a partnership forged at the 2025 PRI Show in Indianapolis and one that solidifies Strange’s role at the heart of one of drag racing’s fastest-growing movements. For - [Virginia Motorsports Park Joins IHRA Collection of Tracks](https://dragillustrated.com/virginia-motorsports-park-joins-ihra-collection-of-tracks/): Virginia Motorsports Park, one of the East Coast’s premier drag racing destinations, is set to enter a new era. Cuttell Motorsports and the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) have reached an agreement to acquire the Dinwiddie, Virginia, facility from Tommy and Judy Franklin, who’ve owned and operated the track since 2017. Located on more than - [Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown Sets Nine-Race Schedule for 2026 Season, Mark Pawuk Looking for Three-Peat](https://dragillustrated.com/flexjet-nhra-factory-stock-showdown-sets-nine-race-schedule-for-2026-season-mark-pawuk-looking-for-three-peat/): Flexjet, a global leader in private aviation, will continue as the title sponsor of the exciting NHRA Factory Stock Showdown class, which will make nine appearances at NHRA national events during the upcoming 2026 season. Two-time world champion Mark Pawuk will be looking to make it three championships in a row when the series kicks - [Fendt Extends Multi Year Partnership as Official Tractor of NHRA](https://dragillustrated.com/fendt-extends-multi-year-partnership-as-official-tractor-of-nhra/): Fendt®, a leading provider of advanced agricultural machinery and smart farming solutions, today announced a renewed, two-year partnership with the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). The company will continue serving as the official NHRA tractor, expanding its visibility across fan engagement and track operations. “Fendt’s ongoing NHRA commitment reflects the continued growth and strength of - [Small Tire Pro Stock Welcomes G-Force Racing Transmissions as New Sponsor](https://dragillustrated.com/small-tire-pro-stock-welcomes-g-force-racing-transmissions-as-new-sponsor/): Small Tire Pro Stock is proud to welcome G-Force Racing Transmissions as a sponsor for the 2026 racing season. The Cleona, Pennsylvania-based company is owned and operated by Leonard Long, a multi-time NMCA Dart NA 10.5 champion and Small Tire Pro Stock racer, and his son, Michael Long. The company offers masterfully crafted manual transmissions for a - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 413 | Jordan Vandergriff Steve King, & Blake Bowser!!!](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-413-jordan-vandergriff-steve-king-blake-bowser/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 413“MEET SEASON, CHAMPS, AND FORCE MOVES” SOMETHIN’S IN THE AIR THIS WEEK. SMELLS LIKE BURNOUTS, BOOST, AND BRACKET BUSTERS. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we’re teein’ up a triple-header that stretches across the sport. We’re talkin’ West Coast history, East Coast horsepower, and NHRA’s latest storyline all - [March Meet Provides Fan Access with Time Machine Atmosphere](https://dragillustrated.com/march-meet-provides-fan-access-with-time-machine-atmosphere/): BAKERSFIELD, CA – The iconic baseball movie Field of Dreams famously said, “If you build it, they will come…” and Famoso Dragstrip is living by that mantra every season with the famed Good Vibrations March Meet. The 68th installment will take place March 5-8, 2026, with four days of racing, car shows, swap meets and - [Inaugural World Series of Pro Mod Prayer Breakfast Set for Saturday Morning at Bradenton](https://dragillustrated.com/inaugural-world-series-of-pro-mod-prayer-breakfast-set-for-saturday-morning-at-bradenton/): Before engines fire and eliminations begin at the 2026 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, competitors, crew members, and fans will have the opportunity to gather for a different kind of moment. The inaugural World Series of Pro Mod Prayer Breakfast will take place Saturday morning at 8:30 AM - [Tommy Youmans Earns First Limited Drag Radial Victory at U.S. Street Nationals](https://dragillustrated.com/tommy-youmans-earns-first-limited-drag-radial-victory-at-u-s-street-nationals/): Tommy Youmans earned his first career Limited Drag Radial victory and first major event win of any kind at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, delivering a strong and consistent performance in one of radial racing’s most competitive categories at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Driving his steel-bodied 1970 Pontiac GTO, Youmans put together a - [Cody Anderson Set to Write His Own Story With Pro Stock Debut in Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/cody-anderson-set-to-write-his-own-story-with-pro-stock-debut-in-gainesville/): Some might say that Cody Anderson has big shoes to fill as the son of the most successful Pro Stock racer in NHRA history. The truth of the matter, though, is that the 27-year-old has no intention of walking in dad Greg Anderson's footsteps. Cody is writing his own story in the world of Pro - [TSR Season Preview: Leah Pruett Returns; Matt Hagan Looks to Continue Momentum](https://dragillustrated.com/tsr-season-preview-leah-pruett-returns-matt-hagan-looks-to-continue-momentum/): The two-car team of Tony Stewart Racing is set to kick off the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season. Leah Pruett returns to the seat of the Top Fuel dragster after a two-year hiatus, while four-time Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan is looking to carry over momentum from a second-place finish in - [Corradi, Butner Ready for World Series of Pro Mod with Robots Done Right Backed Camaro](https://dragillustrated.com/corradi-butner-ready-for-world-series-of-pro-mod-with-robots-done-right-backed-camaro/): AB Motorsports crew chief Brian Corradi and multi-time NHRA champion Bo Butner are set to take on the biggest Pro Mod race of the year at the World Series of Pro Mod, February 26-28, the third and final stop of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series at Bradenton Motorsports Park in Bradenton, Florida. The duo will - [Running The Numbers: A Look at The DI Winter Series Championship Contenders Heading Into WSOPM](https://dragillustrated.com/running-the-numbers-a-look-at-the-di-winter-series-championship-contenders-heading-into-wsopm/): The numbers are clear and the possibilities are wide open as the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service heads into its championship decider at this weekend’s Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil, Feb. 26-28, at Bradenton Motorsports Park. With a maximum of 957 points available at WSOPM — including 900 points for the - [Derek Menholt Charges to Provisional No. 1 Spot at World Series of Pro Mod ](https://dragillustrated.com/derek-menholt-charges-to-provisional-no-1-spot-at-world-series-of-pro-mod/): Montana native Derek Menholt’s success in the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service continued Thursday night when he raced to the provisional No. 1 spot in Pro Mod at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil. Behind the wheel of his Harts Charger-boosted ’19 Corvette, Menholt - [Zizzo Racing Celebrates Rahn Tobler Upcoming Hall of Fame Induction](https://dragillustrated.com/zizzo-racing-celebrates-rahn-tobler-upcoming-hall-of-fame-induction/): For decades Zizzo Racing has competed on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series racing the Rust-Oleum Top Fuel dragster across the country at select national events. The part-time team with a full-time team attitude is led by team owner Tony Zizzo, driver TJ Zizzo and crew chief Mike Kern with an assist in recent - [Gatornationals FanFest Returns to Burnyzz Speed Shop on March 4](https://dragillustrated.com/gatornationals-fanfest-returns-to-burnyzz-speed-shop-on-march-4/): The Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, which takes place March 5-8 at Gainesville Raceway, will once again kick off for fans at Burnyzz Speed Shop, March 4, with the Gatornationals FanFest hosted by Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Top Fuel driver Josh Hart and wife Brittanie Hart. The biggest names in NHRA will be at - [Debut of Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series set for NHRA's Stop at ZMAX Dragway](https://dragillustrated.com/debut-of-right-trailers-outlaw-street-series-set-for-nhras-stop-at-zmax-dragway/): NHRA announced today that the thrilling new Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series, which features some of the major names from the famous Street Outlaws franchise, will debut on April 24-26 at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte as part of NHRA’s 4-Wide Nationals. The exciting new showcase for 2026 will feature 10 drivers, with three rounds of - [2026 World Series of Pro Mod - Round-by-Round Results](https://dragillustrated.com/2026-world-series-of-pro-mod-round-by-round-results/): The Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Red Line Oil wrapped up Saturday night at Bradenton Motorsports Park, marking the culmination of the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. As the name suggests, Pro Mod was the headline attraction with its $150,000-to-win, 32-car field and the $15,000-to-win Outlaw Light - [Atomizer Unleashes APEX Injectors, Built for the Next Level of Extreme Horsepower](https://dragillustrated.com/atomizer-unleashes-apex-injectors-built-for-the-next-level-of-extreme-horsepower/): In today’s ultra-competitive world of Pro Mod, Outlaw 10.5, drag radial, and high-horsepower doorslammer racing, the difference between winning and watching can come down to the smallest details, and few details matter more than fuel delivery. That’s where Atomizer Fuel Systems’ all-new APEX injector enters the conversation, bringing a purpose-built solution designed specifically for racers - [Ron Capps Leads Funny Car Field with Provisional Pole at Season-Opening NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-leads-funny-car-field-with-provisional-pole-at-season-opening-nhra-gatornationals/): The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season opened in memorable fashion for three-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps and his Ron Capps Motorsports organization Friday at the NHRA Gatornationals. Just hours after announcing a new partnership with Monster Energy and debuting as a two-car team with Maddi Gordon and Carlyle Tools, Capps - [The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 415 | Aaron Stanfield, Fletcher Cox, & Mark Beatty](https://dragillustrated.com/the-wes-buck-show-ep-415-aaron-stanfield-fletcher-cox-mark-beatty/): THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 415“KINGS CROWNED, CHECKS CASHED, HISTORY MADE” THE DI WINTER SERIES IS A WRAP.THE BIGGEST, BADDEST, RICHEST PRO MOD RACE ON THE PLANET JUST WENT DOWN.AND WE ARE STILL CATCHING OUR BREATH. This week we are fresh off the World Series of Pro Mod and let me tell you, it - [World Champion Mark Pawuk Chases Historic Three-Peat as Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Revs Up at NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/world-champion-mark-pawuk-chases-historic-three-peat-as-flexjet-factory-stock-showdown-revs-up-at-nhra-gatornationals/): The 2026 Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series will rev up March 5-8, 2026, at the historic NHRA Gatornationals, with two-time world champ Mark Pawuk looking to hold off a host of challengers. Pawuk, the 2024 Gatornationals winner, will strap into the all-new, Hemi-powered 2026 Dodge Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak by Direct Connection and will - [Leah Pruett Makes Her NHRA Driving Return; Matt Hagan Ready to Start 2026 on a High Note](https://dragillustrated.com/leah-pruett-makes-her-nhra-driving-return-matt-hagan-ready-to-start-2026-on-a-high-note/): Tony Stewart Racing enters the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway with Leah Pruett back in the seat of her Dodge Top Fuel dragster and four-time world champion Matt Hagan behind the wheel of the Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car. During Friday’s first qualifying session, Pruett, a 12-time Top Fuel national event winner, will - [Cody Anderson, KB Titan Debut MWDRS Branded Pro Stock Car at Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/cody-anderson-kb-titan-debut-mwdrs-branded-pro-stock-car-at-gatornationals/): Cody Anderson carries one of the most legendary last names in drag racing, and his debut in a Pro Stock car with KB Titan is already one of the most talked about aspects of the NHRA AMALIE Motor Oil Gatornationals in Gainesville this weekend. It means a lot for the son of six-time champion Greg - [Family Heritage: Partridge Brothers Handling Track Prep at Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/family-heritage-partridge-brothers-handling-track-prep-at-famoso/): At Famoso Dragstrip, Andy and Ryan Partridge have taken on track prep duties with a focus on providing racers a consistent racing surface from the first pass to the last. The brothers bring years of experience from Irwindale, where they spent roughly 15 years working around the facility before eventually handling much of the prep - [NHRA YES Program Draws 660 Students to Open West Coast Rumble at Famoso Dragstrip](https://dragillustrated.com/nhra-yes-program-draws-660-students-to-open-west-coast-rumble-at-famoso-dragstrip/): Day one of the West Coast Rumble presented by Match Race Madness opened in a major way at Famoso Dragstrip, highlighted by the NHRA Youth & Education Services (YES) Program. Representing NHRA were Division 7 Director Matt DeYoung and Director of National Event Marketing John Baadilla, underscoring the importance of the program’s stop in Bakersfield. The impact was undeniable: - [Legends Race with Bernstein, Amato, WJ and Larson Set for AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/legends-race-with-bernstein-amato-wj-and-larson-set-for-amalie-motor-oil-nhra-gatornationals/): In addition to their appearance at the upcoming Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, legendary NHRA drivers Kenny Bernstein, Joe Amato, Warren Johnson and Bruce Larson will take to the track on Friday and Saturday for a special legends match race at Gainesville Raceway. It’s another added item for NHRA’s kickoff to the 75th anniversary season - [XXI Martinis Joins Tony Stewart Racing in NHRA](https://dragillustrated.com/xxi-martinis-joins-tony-stewart-racing-in-nhra/): Tony Stewart Racing has announced Award Winning XXI Martinis as their newest partner for the NHRA 75th anniversary season. Distilled and bottled in the United States, XXI Martinis offers a collection of ready to serve flavored martinis. “We’re excited XXI Martinis has come on board with TSR for the 2026 NHRA season,” said Tony Stewart, owner - [Santa Pod Raceway Announces FuelTech as Main Title Sponsor of the Motorsport UK British Drag Racing Championship for 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/santa-pod-raceway-announces-fueltech-as-main-title-sponsor-of-the-motorsport-uk-british-drag-racing-championship-for-2026/): Santa Pod Raceway is pleased to announce that FuelTech has been appointed main title sponsor of the Motorsport UK British Drag Racing Championship. The partnership brings one of the world’s leading motorsport electronics and engine-management companies into the top tier of UK drag racing, marking a major step forward for the Championship’s visibility, technical innovation and international engagement. The - [Brown Wins Right Trailers Top Fuel All-Star Callout in Front of Sellout Crowd at Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/brown-wins-right-trailers-top-fuel-all-star-callout-in-front-of-sellout-crowd-at-gainesville/): Four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown won the Right Trailers All-Star Callout in front of a sellout crowd on Saturday at Gainesville Raceway, defeating Clay Millican in the final round of the bonus race as part of this weekend’s season-opening Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. Josh Hart (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Cody - [Chad Green Scores Second Straight NHRA Gatornationals Funny Car Win](https://dragillustrated.com/chad-green-scores-second-straight-nhra-gatornationals-funny-car-win/): Defending NHRA Gatornationals Funny Car Champion Chad Green made it two in a row Sunday with an impressive performance in his CGM Bond-Coat Ford Mustang at Gainesville Raceway in the season opener for the 75th anniversary of the NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series. Green, the Midland, Tex., businessman when he isn’t driving his nitro-burning Funny - [Struggle to Success at Snow Outlaws Three Lakes Finals](https://dragillustrated.com/struggle-to-success-at-snow-outlaws-three-lakes-finals/): “How’s it going?” someone asked STM Powersports Snow Outlaws snowmobile drag racing series boss Chad Nyhus. It was qualifying day for the World Finals and deep puddles spread over the pit area on Spirit Lake at Three Lakes, Wisconsin. Cracks in the ice were showing beneath the water, the purpose-built snow-packed racing surface had lost - [Trick-Tools Doubles Down with NHRA and Chase Van Sant](https://dragillustrated.com/trick-tools-doubles-down-with-nhra-and-chase-van-sant/): Metal fabrication online superstore Trick-Tools.com has announced an expanded sponsorship with NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Chase Van Sant and the WAR/TK Motorsports team for the 2026 season. Trick-Tools has served as the primary sponsor of Van Sant’s Suzuki since his Rookie of the Year season three years ago. Now, reflecting its “The Next Level Awaits” - [Pro Stock's Dallas Glenn Returns to Gainesville as Reigning World Champion](https://dragillustrated.com/pro-stocks-dallas-glenn-returns-to-gainesville-as-reigning-world-champion/): Last season at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals was the kickoff to Pro Stock driver Dallas Glenn’s first world championship season. This season, he’s looking for another win at Gainesville Raceway at the 2026 NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series season opener, which starts NHRA's 75th anniversary season. Glenn wheels the RAD Torque Systems Chevrolet - [Statement-Making Top Fuel Debut Sends Maddi Gordon to Gatornationals Semifinals](https://dragillustrated.com/statement-making-top-fuel-debut-sends-maddi-gordon-to-gatornationals-semifinals/): NHRA Rookie of the Year contender Maddi Gordon made her presence known Sunday at the NHRA Gatornationals when she raced to a semifinal finish at Gainesville Raceway. Gordon piloted her Carlyle Tools Top Fuel dragster out of the Ron Capps Motorsports camp to round wins over two of the most accomplished drivers in class history - [Nitro Returns to Famoso as 67th Good Vibrations Motorsports March Meet Begins](https://dragillustrated.com/nitro-returns-to-famoso-as-67th-good-vibrations-motorsports-march-meet-begins/): The unmistakable rumble of nitro is back as the 67th annual Good Vibrations Motorsports March Meet officially got underway Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Famoso Dragstrip. Long regarded as the unofficial kickoff to the nostalgia nitro season, the historic March Meet opened under ideal Central Valley conditions, with sunny skies and temperatures in the high - [PHOTO GALLERY: Hilton, Peck Headline Nitro-Fueled Winners at Historic 68th March Meet](https://dragillustrated.com/photo-gallery-hilton-peck-headline-nitro-fueled-winners-at-historic-68th-march-meet/): If nostalgia drag racing has a spiritual home, it’s the legendary quarter-mile at Famoso Dragstrip. And on Sunday, the tradition continued as nitro thunder and old-school horsepower crowned champions at the 68th March Meet, one of the most iconic events in drag racing. Leading the nitro charge was Tyler Hilton, who drove his Nostalgia Top - [Hart, Capps, C. Coughlin and A. Smith Start 75th Anniversary Season with Provisional No. 1 Spots at Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/hart-capps-c-coughlin-and-a-smith-start-75th-anniversary-season-with-provisional-no-1-spots-at-gainesville/): Ocala’s Josh Hart made the fastest run in Gainesville Dragway history on Friday to open the 2026 NHRA season, taking the Top Fuel provisional No. 1 position at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. Ron Capps (Funny Car), Cody Coughlin (Pro Stock) and Angie Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are also the provisional No. 1 qualifiers - [Pruett Takes TSR Dodge Top Fuel Dragster to Quarterfinals in NHRA Return; Hagan Posts Impressive Runs](https://dragillustrated.com/pruett-takes-tsr-dodge-top-fuel-dragster-to-quarterfinals-in-nhra-return-hagan-posts-impressive-runs/): Veteran drag racer Leah Pruett made her return to NHRA drag racing competition Sunday at the NHRA Gatornationals when she drove her Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Dodge Top Fuel dragster to a quarterfinals finish at Gainesville Raceway, while TSR Dodge teammate Matt Hagan debuted his Dodge//SRT Funny Car with a quarterfinals placing. Pruett, who nearly - [“We Didn’t Quit:” Determination, Perseverance, and Why the Winter Series Matters](https://dragillustrated.com/we-didnt-quit-determination-perseverance-and-why-the-winter-series-matters/): It’s Saturday evening at Bradenton Motorsports Park, and Shawn “Murder Nova” Ellington is sitting on the ground next to the rear driver’s side wheel well of “Blue,” the ProCharger-powered ’69 Camaro he drives for Keith Haney Racing. For perhaps the first time all weekend, his pit area is unusually silent. The former Street Outlaws star is by - [South Georgia Motorsports Park Set to Host Muscle Car Mayhem Presented by Whipple Superchargers](https://dragillustrated.com/south-georgia-motorsports-park-set-to-host-muscle-car-mayhem-presented-by-whipple-superchargers/): South Georgia Motorsports Park in Adel, Georgia is always a hotspot for horsepower, and the track has been bustling with back-to-back big events the past few months. After presenting an action-packed 2 nd Annual Spring Break Ford Nationals presented by Whipple Superchargers in late February, track owners Raul and Jennifer Torres and their team members - [The Ground Shakes Again: 68th Good Vibrations March Meet Ignites Famoso](https://dragillustrated.com/the-ground-shakes-again-68th-good-vibrations-march-meet-ignites-famoso/): For nearly seven decades, the March Meet has been one of drag racing’s most sacred traditions. This weekend, the thunder returned once again as the 68th Good Vibrations Motorsports March Meet roared to life at historic Famoso Dragstrip. Under beautiful weather and ideal racing conditions, fans packed the historic quarter-mile to witness the latest chapter - [Goodyear to Celebrate NHRA's 75th Anniversary at Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/goodyear-to-celebrate-nhras-75th-anniversary-at-gatornationals/): The NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026, and Goodyear will mark the occasion with specially branded tires in this weekend’s season-opening NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway in Florida. The partnership between Goodyear and the NHRA goes back to the early days of the drag racing organization. Today, Goodyear is the exclusive tire supplier to - [After Changes, the Goal Remains the Same for Funny Car's Austin Prock Heading to Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/after-changes-the-goal-remains-the-same-for-funny-cars-austin-prock-heading-to-gainesville/): There’s a new car and a new team, but the end goal remains the same for Funny Car standout Austin Prock, who enters the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season as the back-to-back world champion. But there’s been plenty of change for Prock heading into this weekend’s Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at - [Monster Energy Joins Maddi Gordon, Ron Capps Motorsports For Multi-Year NHRA Partnership](https://dragillustrated.com/monster-energy-joins-maddi-gordon-ron-capps-motorsports-for-multi-year-nhra-partnership/): Monster Energy has joined NHRA Rookie of the Year candidate Maddi Gordon and the championship-winning Ron Capps Motorsports team in a multi-year partnership beginning with the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. Announced today at Gainesville Raceway ahead of qualifying for the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals, the partnership will see Monster Energy support Gordon’s - [Ron Capps to Start Race Day from Pole Position at NHRA Season Opener](https://dragillustrated.com/ron-capps-to-start-race-day-from-pole-position-at-nhra-season-opener/): Three-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps opened the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season in commanding fashion, securing the No. 1 qualifying position Saturday at the NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. Capps powered his NAPA Auto Care Funny Car to the top of the field Friday night with a standout run of 3.890 - [Jasmine Salinas Returns to Competition at NHRA Gatornationals Season Opener](https://dragillustrated.com/jasmine-salinas-returns-to-competition-at-nhra-gatornationals-season-opener/): After nearly five months away from the driver’s seat, Jasmine Salinas returned to competition this weekend at the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. Driving the Valley Services/Scrappers Racing Top Fuel dragster, Salinas posted her best run of the weekend during Friday’s second qualifying session to secure her place among 19 drivers vying for a - [Hart Grabs Gators Provisional No. 1 Qualifier](https://dragillustrated.com/hart-grabs-gators-provisional-no-1-qualifier/): Josh Hart and John Force Racing’s Burnyzz Speed Shop / Speedmaster Top Fuel team continued their strong performance in testing two weeks ago at Gainesville Raceway by taking the provisional top spot for the AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals with a run of 3.658 seconds at a track record 340.30 mph Friday night under the - [Sellout Crowd to Open NHRA's 75th Anniversary Season in Gainesville](https://dragillustrated.com/sellout-crowd-to-open-nhras-75th-anniversary-season-in-gainesville/): NHRA officials announced a sellout crowd on Saturday at Gainesville Raceway to open its 75th anniversary season at the 57th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. The race kicks off the celebratory 2026 season and fans packed the legendary fanbase packed the legendary facility in Gainesville. The massive crowd enjoyed two rounds of qualifying and - [Jonathan Allegrucci Runs to Gatornationals No. 1 Qualifier](https://dragillustrated.com/jonathan-allegrucci-runs-to-gatornationals-no-1-qualifier/): Through three rounds of qualifying at the season opening Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals, Jonathan Allegrucci powered his Ford Mustang Cobra Jet to the No. 1 qualifier position heading into race day with a category quickest elapsed time of 7.714 seconds at 178.26 mph. Allegrucci and his Ford lead two Camaros driven by Richard Hord and - [Derek Menholt Gets NHRA Pro Mod Series Win in Gainesville to Open 2026](https://dragillustrated.com/derek-menholt-gets-nhra-pro-mod-series-win-in-gainesville-to-open-2026/): Derek Menholt knocked off Lyle Barnett in the final round on Sunday at Gainesville Raceway in the opening race of JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports. The event was the first of 11 races in the series and was powered by FuelTech as part of this weekend’s Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, - [Wolf Battles Aggressive Car and Gainesville Surface, Exits in Round One](https://dragillustrated.com/wolf-battles-aggressive-car-and-gainesville-surface-exits-in-round-one/): The DMP / Kentex A/Fuel Dragster and driver Kirk Wolf arrived at the NHRA Gatornationals facing a car that wanted to run – perhaps too much. A wheelie bar malfunction, tire smoke, and a stubbornly aggressive car consumed two of the three qualifying sessions before a razor-thin round-one exit ended the team’s weekend. Q1 set - [Ricky Hord Wins Historic Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/ricky-hord-wins-historic-gatornationals/): The 2026 NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series got off to a dramatic start with No. 2 qualifier Ricky Hord, from Orlando, Fla., winning for the third time in his career. Hord outran veteran driver and 2025 Bristol winner David Janac in a close Chevrolet COPO Camaro versus Ford Mustang Cobra Jet final round. The - [Hart Wins, DeJoria Runner-Up in JFR Debut](https://dragillustrated.com/hart-wins-dejoria-runner-up-in-jfr-debut/): Josh Hart and Alexis DeJoria are both newcomers to the 24-time NHRA Championship winning John Force Racing organization but both made incredibly strong statements at Sunday’s 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season-opening Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway, with Hart earning the Top Fuel title and DeJoria finishing runner-up in Funny Car. Hart and the - [Hull Gains Valuable Experience at First Race of 2026 Season](https://dragillustrated.com/hull-gains-valuable-experience-at-first-race-of-2026-season/): Making his debut as both a driver and Funny Car team owner, Buddy Hull and the newly formed Hull Racing team showed resilience and determination during the season-opening AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. Competing in a stacked 19-car Funny Car field, Hull qualified in the No. 17 position, placing him ahead of both - [JBS Equipment Named 2026 NHRA Pro Mod Series Title Sponsor; Elite Motorsports Named Presenting Sponsor](https://dragillustrated.com/jbs-equipment-named-2026-nhra-pro-mod-series-title-sponsor-elite-motorsports-named-presenting-sponsor/): NHRA officials announced today that JBS Equipment will serve as the official series sponsor for the 2026 NHRA Pro Mod season, while Elite Motorsports will add to the partnership as the presenting sponsor for the upcoming season. Justin Bond, a longtime competitor and supporter of the NHRA Pro Mod class and owner of JBS Equipment, - [Alexis DeJoria Opens JFR Era with NHRA Gatornationals Final-Round Appearance](https://dragillustrated.com/alexis-dejoria-opens-jfr-era-with-nhra-gatornationals-final-round-appearance/): Alexis DeJoria kicked off a new chapter with John Force Racing in impressive fashion, racing to the final round at the 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals Sunday afternoon to open the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season at Gainesville Raceway. Driving the Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car in her first race with the - [Hyde Advances to Quarterfinals in First Race Since Rookie of the Year](https://dragillustrated.com/hyde-advances-to-quarterfinals-in-first-race-since-rookie-of-the-year/): Reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year Spencer Hyde kicked off the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season with a strong showing at the historic AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, advancing to the quarterfinals at Gainesville Raceway. Driving the Head Racing Funny Car for team owner and crew chief Jim Head, Hyde faced a - [Six-Time Champ Greg Anderson Takes HendrickCars.com to the Final at Unforgettable NHRA Opener](https://dragillustrated.com/six-time-champ-greg-anderson-takes-hendrickcars-com-to-the-final-at-unforgettable-nhra-opener/): Greg Anderson and the KB Titan Racing team closed the door on the winter with a resounding thud, charging into NHRA’s 75th anniversary season with a bolstered roster and horsepower that promises to make this a year to remember. For Anderson, the 57th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals will be positively unforgettable. Drama in - [Bartone Bros. Racing Wins Top Alcohol Funny Car at Gatornationals](https://dragillustrated.com/bartone-bros-racing-wins-top-alcohol-funny-car-at-gatornationals/): Bartone Bros. Racing opened the 2026 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series season in emphatic fashion Sunday, winning the Top Alcohol Funny Car class at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. Driver Sean Bellemeur piloted Tony Bartone's “Pirate Ship” to victory over Chris Foster in the final round, claiming the first 75th - [Quarter-Max Racing Components Named Title Sponsor of the 2026 IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series - Outlaw Pro Mod Class](https://dragillustrated.com/quarter-max-racing-components-named-title-sponsor-of-the-2026-ihra-outlaw-nitro-series-outlaw-pro-mod-class/): The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is thrilled to announce that Quarter-Max has officially signed on as the title sponsor for the 2026 IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series - Outlaw Pro Mod Class. This powerh