NHRA Drag Racing: Recent Highlights and Developments
Season Overview and Schedule
The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series is underway, marking the 70th season of the National Hot Rod Association’s premier drag racing competition. The series features 20 events for Top Fuel, Funny Car, and Pro Stock categories, with Pro Stock Motorcycle competing in 15 events. Notably, the season includes All-Star Call Out races, where drivers select their opponents in early rounds, adding a strategic element to the competition.
Notable Events and Incidents
Ida Zetterström’s NHRA Debut: European drag racing champion Ida Zetterström has transitioned to the NHRA circuit in the United States. Known for her precision and muscle memory on the track, Zetterström aims to make a significant impact in the highly competitive Top Fuel category.
Plane Crash Near Pomona Dragstrip: On November 17, 2024, a single-engine Piper PA-32 crashed into a parking lot near the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip during the NHRA finals. The incident resulted in injuries to three passengers on the plane but miraculously left spectators on the ground unharmed. The event was briefly paused but later resumed after emergency services secured the area.
Tony Stewart’s Eventful Weekend: NASCAR legend Tony Stewart experienced a whirlwind weekend in November 2024. His wife, Leah Pruett, a two-time NHRA world champion, gave birth to their son, Dominic James, on November 17. Just hours after the birth in Arizona, Stewart returned to California to compete in the NHRA semifinals, showcasing his dedication to both family and racing.
Factory Stock Showdown Expansion
The NHRA Factory Stock Showdown (FSS), a fan-favorite class showcasing factory-built cars like the Chevrolet COPO Camaro, Dodge Challenger Drag Pak, and Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, continues to grow in popularity. In 2023, the series expanded from eight to ten races, with Flexjet becoming the title sponsor.
As the 2025 season progresses, fans can look forward to thrilling races, emerging talents, and the relentless pursuit of speed that defines NHRA Drag Racing.
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