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Wilwood Racing announces the release of the newest evolution of its legendary Wide 5 hub series for rear axles, a Starlite 55XD featuring 1-Ton Bearing Races. Building on more than 40 years of proven performance, the Starlite 55XD continues the legacy established by the groundbreaking Starlite II “bubble” hub—an industry-transforming design that introduced lightweight strength through advanced engineering pioneered by Wilwood. The Starlite 55XD model, with 1-ton bearing races for rear axles adds stiffness and durability. Includes coarse studs and a forged aluminum adapter plate compatible with 8 x 7.00-inch fixed or floating rotors, and Wilwood’s Lug-Drive dynamic mount system. This expanded mounting versatility gives race teams greater flexibility in building high-performance, track-ready braking systems. Recognized for decades as the foundation of competitive short track braking setups, Wilwood’s Wide 5 hubs remain a trusted standard across the industry. The introduction of the latest Starlite 55XD with 1-ton bearing races further reinforces Wilwood’s commitment to performance-driven engineering. TELL THEM YOU SAW THIS IN BANGSHIFT.COM The post Wilwood Racing Releases Rear Wide 5 Hub Starlite 55XD With 1-Ton Bearing Races appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Dayco officially enters the NHRA Contingency Program to reward drivers. Top drag racers earn major cash payouts for reaching the finals.View the full article

With the sale of Houston Raceway Park three years ago, TX2K was in need of a new home and with only one really big world class drag racing facility left, that meant that TX2K had to move to the Texas Motorplex in Ennis. This is the third year at the Motorplex, and it is carrying on the tradition that was started in Houston. This year’s action was hot and heavy, that is for sure! This track was the first all concrete dragstrip in the world, and also the first to see a 300 mph pass, and we’re sure it will see more new records during TX2K as well. The boys at 1320Video have some great video coming and are saying they have been seeing some of the best cars they have ever seen attend TX2K. The post TX2K26 Day 1 From The Texas Motorplex: Big Numbers, Big Power, Big Carnage! Everything You Expect From TX2K AND MORE!!! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Terry Haddock is regrouping following an on-track incident during the fourth qualifying session at Gainesville Raceway that resulted in major damage to his primary Nitro Funny Car. Haddock had just completed a strong 4.12-second pass and had lifted early at approximately 800 feet. Near the top end of the track, the Buddy Hull’s car caught fire and crossed into Haddock’s lane, running over the left front of Haddock’s Funny Car. A parachute from Hull’s car then became entangled with the wheelie bar of Haddock’s car, pulling it sharply toward the wall. The car struck the barrier head-on and was dragged along the wall for a distance before coming to a stop. Haddock was uninjured in incident. While Haddock walked away unharmed, the damage to the A-car chassis is significant. The car is currently being stripped and will be transported to John Force Racing for evaluation to determine whether it can be repaired with a new front half. The frame rails were bent in the impact, and the team also lost the Funny Car body in the incident. For the independent Terry Haddock Racing team, the damage represents a major setback after months of offseason work preparing for the upcoming IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series season. Because early reports suggested the damage was minimal, many fans believed Haddock’s A-car returned to competition on Sunday. In reality, the damage was significant and the car was unable to run again during the event. Instead, Terry Haddock brought out the B-car. Originally built for a smaller test-class combination, Terry Haddock and his crew converted the B-car overnight into a full big show Nitro Funny Car. The first round on Sunday marked Haddock’s first run in the car in that configuration, where the car knocked the tires off early in the pass. Despite the setback, Terry Haddock remains focused on his plans for the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series championship season. As an independent team, the damage represents a significant financial challenge. Terry Haddock Racing is continuing to rebuild the car while preparing for the upcoming IHRA season, and Haddock welcomes the support of partners and sponsors who want to be part of the team’s push toward the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series championship. Haddock captured the 2008 IHRA Nitro Funny Car world championship and intends to compete for the title again as the IHRA launches its new Outlaw Nitro Series championship program. Terry Haddock Racing will continue working to rebuild and prepare its equipment as Haddock heads toward the start of the IHRA season.The 2026 IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series season opener takes place March 19–21 at Darana Motorsports Park in Benson, North Carolina. This story was originally published on March 19, 2026. The post Terry Haddock Racing Regroups After Gainesville Incident, Still Aiming for IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series Championship first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Mention of a themed custom motorcycle conjures visions of bad reality TV choppers, and sends us into convulsions. But this scrambler is a theme bike with a big difference: It's so tastefully executed, we didn't realize there was a theme. Until builder Chris Tope revealed the story behind it.Chris wa... View the full article

Imagine waking up to the crisp, pine-scented air of the high desert. You unzip your rooftop tent, brew a fresh cup of coffee on your tailgate, and step directly into the epicenter of the global overlanding community. This is not just another weekend getaway. This is the immersive, round-the-clock experience of camping at Overland Expo West 2026. For adventure travel enthusiasts, securing a camping pass takes the Overland Expo West experience to the next level—immersing you fully in the community, culture, and natural beauty that define the overlanding lifestyle. Staying on-site means you’re not just attending an event; you’re living it, every moment from sunrise to starlight. This guide explores the distinct advantages of making Overland Expo West your basecamp, the unique environment of Flagstaff, Arizona, and the specific camping packages available to elevate your journey this May. The Natural Splendor of Ft. Tuthill County Park Overland Expo West takes place at Ft. Tuthill County Park, a premier outdoor destination located just two miles south of Flagstaff. Nestled within the Coconino National Forest, the park offers a stunning backdrop of the world’s largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest. The environment immediately sets the tone for an authentic adventure. At an elevation of 7,000 feet, the venue provides a rugged, alpine atmosphere that perfectly complements the off-grid lifestyle. The towering pines offer natural shade, creating comfortable microclimates throughout the festival grounds. Access to the venue is highly efficient. Situated directly off Interstate 17, Ft. Tuthill allows heavy adventure rigs, trailers, and motorcycles to arrive and navigate the area with ease. Despite its proximity to major travel arteries and the modern amenities of downtown Flagstaff, the park maintains a remarkably secluded, wilderness feel. You get the ruggedness of a backcountry site with the logistical convenience of a highly organized global event. What to Expect: Camping in the Flagstaff High Country Camping in Flagstaff during mid-May is a dynamic experience that requires thoughtful preparation. The high-altitude environment means weather can shift rapidly, providing warm, sun-drenched days and significantly cooler nights. But we’ll provide you with some weather predictions when we get a bit closer. Daytime temperatures typically hover in the comfortable mid-60s to low-70s, offering ideal conditions for walking the exhibitor midway, attending hands-on recovery classes, or test-driving new equipment. However, once the sun dips below the horizon, temperatures can drop into the 30s or 40s. A quality sleeping bag, thermal layers, and a reliable camp heater will ensure you remain comfortable long after the daytime activities conclude. Flagstaff also proudly holds the title of the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Stringent local lighting ordinances minimize light pollution, resulting in a breathtaking canopy of stars. When the event lighting dims, campers are treated to spectacular night skies. Whether you are an avid astrophotographer or simply appreciate the quiet beauty of the cosmos, the evening atmosphere above Ft. Tuthill is unforgettable. READ MORE: Review: Toyo Open Country R/T Trail The Immersive On-Site Experience Purchasing a camping pass offers far more than a place to park your rig; it grants you continuous, unfiltered access to the overlanding community. The true magic of Overland Expo West often happens after the main gates close to day-pass holders. When evening falls, the campgrounds transform into a sprawling, vibrant neighborhood of global explorers. You will find yourself sharing stories over camp stoves with veteran travelers who have driven across continents, industry innovators testing their latest gear, and newcomers building their very first setup. Staying on-site eliminates the daily commute from a hotel, allowing you to maximize your time. You can seamlessly transition from a late-afternoon suspension session straight into the nightly happy hour events. As a camper, you are always just a short walk away from the Overland Expo Film Festival, in-booth parties, and impromptu networking sessions that define the culture of the event. Choose Your Adventure: 2026 Camping Packages Overland Expo West offers three distinct camping packages tailored to different styles of travel. All camping passes include access to the event from Thursday morning through Monday morning, giving you ample time to settle in before the official programming begins on Friday. Please note that these packages are in high demand, limited in quantity, and exclusively available for purchase online. Passengers require a separate ticket. General Admission Weekend Pass With Vehicle Camping Designed for the standard overland vehicle, this package is the most popular way to experience the event. It provides primitive, festival-style camping in the General Admission Campgrounds. What it includes: Camping space for one vehicle, which also permits one small trailer (up to 13 feet, such as an off-road teardrop or pop-up). A General Admission Weekend Pass for one adult (ages 15+). Full access to all general admission classes, driving demonstrations, roundtable discussions, films, and the massive exhibitor area. Entry to the nightly happy hour events, where you can connect with the community (drinks available for purchase). This pass is ideal for attendees who want to be right in the mix, surrounded by hundreds of other uniquely built rigs and enthusiastic travelers. General Admission Weekend Pass With Moto Camping Motorcycle overlanders possess a distinct culture, and the Moto Camping package honors that unique dynamic. Located in a specialized, motorcycle-only campground, this pass groups riders together, fostering immediate camaraderie and knowledge-sharing among two-wheeled adventurers. What it includes: Primitive, festival-style camping strictly for one motorcycle (sidecars are permitted). A General Admission Weekend Pass for one adult rider. Complete access to hundreds of overland-specific classes, including Moto-specific training sessions, demos, and the exhibitor area. Entry to nightly happy hours to unwind after a long day of walking the grid. Riders looking for the ultimate Moto experience can also purchase the separate Moto Party and Dinner ticket to cap off their weekend. Premium Weekend Pass With Vehicle Camping For attendees seeking an elevated, highly convenient experience, the Premium Weekend Pass delivers exceptional value and exclusive perks. This package places you in the Premium Campgrounds, providing strategic positioning and an array of upgraded amenities to make your weekend seamless. What it includes: Primitive, festival-style camping in the highly sought-after Premium Campgrounds for one vehicle (and one small trailer up to 13 feet). A Premium Weekend Pass for one adult. Exclusive access to the VIP hospitality lounge, an excellent place to recharge, network, and plan your daily schedule. Complimentary morning coffee and pastries to start your day off right. Your first drink is free at the nightly Happy Hours. An exclusive attendee badge, a premium goody bag, and a physical copy of the Sourcebook Magazine. The Premium pass is the definitive choice for those who want to maximize their networking potential and enjoy a few extra comforts while living off-grid. Strategic Preparation for the Ultimate Weekend To ensure your camping experience is successful, approach Overland Expo West just as you would any backcountry expedition. The campgrounds are primitive, meaning you must be entirely self-sufficient. There are no electrical or water hookups at individual sites, so arrive with your water tanks full, your auxiliary batteries charged, and your solar panels ready to deploy. Embrace the “Leave No Trace” philosophy. The beauty of the Coconino National Forest is a shared resource, and the overlanding community prides itself on leaving campsites cleaner than they found them. Utilize the provided waste stations and manage your gray water responsibly. Additionally, take time to study the event map and class schedule before you arrive. With hundreds of hours of educational content and over 400 exhibitors, having a solid game plan will help you balance your time between learning, shopping, and relaxing at camp. Secure Your Basecamp Today The demand for camping at Overland Expo West increases every year, and spaces are limited. If you want to wake up in the heart of the action, learn from the world’s leading experts, and connect with a passionate community of global explorers, you need to act quickly. Do not miss the opportunity to transform your visit into a fully immersive adventure. Review the pass options, coordinate with your travel partners, and lock in your site. Plan your adventure today. Purchase your camping passes for Overland Expo West 2026 at overlandexpo.com and prepare for the best weekend of the year. BUY TICKETS View the full article

Jordan Vandergriff had a successful NHRA professional debut in 2019 at Firebird Motorsports Park when he competed in Top Fuel for his family-owned team and he’s looking to go a couple round-wins better when he returns in the John Force Racing Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car for the March 20-22 FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs. “The Cornwell Tools Chevy team left Gainesville fourth on the points. You know, that’s really a great start,” said Vandergriff. “We’ve gelled so quickly as a team and were able to find some success right off the bat. We know that we’re capable of doing even better so we’re looking forward to Phoenix. Phoenix is going to be hot so the track is going to be tricky, but Gainesville was hot and we handled it pretty well, so I feel confident we’re going to handle Phoenix well, too.” This weekend’s event will be just the second time Vandergriff has competed at Firebird Motorsports Park but the Atlanta-area resident made the best of his inaugural visit with a seminal showing. After qualifying fourth, he ran low ET of the first round to defeat Brittany Force and then put Doug Kalitta on the trailer with a holeshot of almost three-hundredths of a second and a run just one-thousandth of a second quicker. Vandergriff cut a strong light in the semifinal against eventual race winner Billy Torrence (.064 to Torrence’s .062) but smoked the tires shortly into the run. The Cornwell Tools team, led by crew chiefs Chris Cunningham and Jason Bunker, qualified eighth and reached the semifinal at this season’s opening round at Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway. Vandergriff defeated John Force Racing teammate Jack Beckman in the first round, John Smith in the second, and got the holeshot in the semifinal against eventual event winner Chad Green, running 4.068 seconds at 300.40 mph to Green’s 3.980 at 324.83. “It was huge for us, being a new team with Chris and Jason as crew chiefs and a whole new crew, and me as a new driver,” Vandergriff said. “We came in there and just wanted to do the best we could and that semifinal finish for us is really, really good. We came together so quickly and we’ve gelled so quickly. We knew we could do the job and, looking forward to the rest of the year, we know we’re capable of doing even better.” The post Vandergriff to Build on Solid Start in Arizona Heat first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Derek Menholt’s hot streak in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports started late last year and after his second win in three races – this one to open the 2026 season – Menholt has no plans of slowing down this weekend at Firebird Motorsports Park. The category returns to Phoenix as part of this weekend’s FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs and Menholt has proven to be the man to beat as of late. He won the penultimate race of 2025 in St. Louis and then impressed in Gainesville to start this year in strong fashion. Next up is trying to conquer the heat and the loaded Pro Mod class in Phoenix to keep this string of remarkable performances going. “That Gainesville win was a total team effort – everyone executed when it mattered,” Menholt said. “Now we turn the page to Arizona. It’s going to be hot and tricky, but we’ve got a strong combination and a lot of confidence right now. The goal is to keep that momentum rolling.” This weekend’s event is the second of 11 races in the category during the 2026 campaign and this weekend’s race is powered by LAT Racing Oils. LAT Racing Oils remains a top choice for many standouts in the category, including Menholt, Justin Bond, Lyle Barnett and Billy Banaka. “We are proud to sponsor the NHRA Pro Mod class at Phoenix,” LAT Racing Oils’ Co-owner, Danny Vaca said. “As a leader in performance lubricants we support many high-profile Pro Mod teams with high-performance racing oils designed to help power these engines to the winner’s circle. We are looking forward to seeing first-hand how our lubricants perform at this race.” Menholt won’t have an easy road for a second straight victory, as the loaded field includes the likes of reigning world champion J.R. Gray, defending race winner Michael Stavrinos, past world champions Stevie “Fast” Jackson and Mike Castellana, and standouts like Mason Wright, Alex Laughlin and Kevin Rivenbark. The class will also see the return of six-time Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders. She holds the Pro Mod speed record (261.22 mph) and is back in the category for the first time since 2019. Additionally, the weekend will feature the Pro Mod Showdown, which is sponsored by Total Seal for the event in Phoenix and offers an extra incentive for drivers in the category. The Total Seal Pro Mod Showdown rewards the driver who records the best cumulative E.T. average across all four qualifying sessions. The winner gets a $7,500 bonus from Total Seal, adding another high-stakes incentive to the Phoenix race. The NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series features two qualifying rounds at 11:15 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. local time on Friday, and the final two qualifying rounds at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday. The first round of eliminations is slated for 11:25 a.m. on Sunday. The first qualifying session of the day on Friday and Saturday, as well as the first round of eliminations will be broadcast for free on NHRA’s YouTube page. In the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Friday qualifying will begin at 9:30 a.m. local time on Friday with Pro Stock, followed by Funny Car and Top Fuel. The second session is slated to start at 12 p.m. On Saturday, Top Fuel will open the day at 10 a.m., followed by Funny Car and Pro Stock. The final qualifying session is scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. with Top Fuel. Sunday eliminations will begin at 10 a.m. local time and gates will open at 7 a.m. Friday through Sunday. To purchase tickets to the FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com. This story was originally published on March 19, 2026. The post JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Returns to Phoenix at Race Powered by LAT Racing Oils first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Jon Moore has taken an interesting route to build an 8-second street car. His Crown Vic is not only lifted, it makes 1,800 horsepower. View the full article

Harley-Davidson plans a "strategic reset" to cut costs and address declining motorcycle demand. Can it finally turn things around?View the full article

The FIM just changed the rules of the EnduroGP World Championships to allow electric motorcycles to compete alongside ICE bikes. Stark was the first to throw its hat in the ring.View the full article

If you want a sidecar for your motorcycle in 2026, your best bet is to hit up Ural. But that may all change as CFMoto wants in on the sidecar action, along with it being 2WD. View the full article

It might be the Year of the Horse, but just one BMW S 1000 RR in the US is included in a switch recall that mostly affects other markets.View the full article

BMW ADV-X is a multi-day off-road experience curated by BMW Motorrad exclusively open to GS riders. View the full article

The Pan America, one of the better Harley-Davidson motorcycles in recent memory, is a Screamin' (Eagle) deal if you pick one up used right now. View the full article

Once a racer, always a racer, and his teammate and family were happy to honor his wishes and help him cross that finish line in 2026.View the full article

Ice and snow racing events just make me smile, but probably not for the reason you think. As awesome as these events are, and as cool as the race cars and trucks can be, it’s the people that are racing in the snow and ice all winter that really set these events apart. If you asked the average sand drags or traditional drag racing competitor if they would change a few things on their ride and then go race it on the ice or in the snow, most are going to say NO. But when you live in the ice and snow and can’t race your car or truck for several months because of it, your attitude changes a bit. These folks love to go racing on the ice and snow and think nothing of it. This is just what you do in the winter. I met some folks from Wisconsin and Minnesota several years ago while announcing at Optima’s Search for the Ultimate Street Car series, and one of them had an S2000 that was fast on both the autocross and the road course. While interviewing the driver for the tv show I asked about some road rash that was on the front fender lips. When he told me that was from the screws in his front tires for ice racing it took me a minute to comprehend what he was saying. I asked if the car used to be an ice racer, and he said it still was, and proceeded to tell me about a whole bunch of the racers and their cars that not only do road course and autocross duty during the sunny months, but also are thrown around on the frozen lake for ice racing season. It was awesome, and let me know that these guys were a bit more hard core than some of the others out there racing. So let’s see what 2000 horsepower trucks look like, hauling ass up a ski slope. This should be fun. Video Description: We made the trip up to Florence, Wisconsin for the Keyes Peak Uphill Truck Drags – one of the wildest winter races we’ve ever seen. Trucks line up at the bottom of a snowy hill and race uphill through deep snow, with builds ranging from mostly stock rigs all the way up to 2,000+ horsepower monsters that normally race dirt the rest of the year. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. Temperatures barely touched 15°F with heavy winds, making it the coldest shoot we’ve done.. ever? The post Drag Racing 2000hp Trucks UPHILL in SNOW! What Could Possibly Go Wrong? This Is Insane And Fun In All The Right Ways! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Moto Guzzi Soul & Summit Sale Moto Guzzi Australia is bringing its most advanced motorcycles within closer reach, with savings of up to $5000 across the run-out V100 Mandello and Stelvio range as part of the new ‘Soul & Summit Sale’, running until May 31, 2026, or while stocks last. Further elevating the value, customers […] The post Save up to $5K with Moto Guzzi’s Soul & Summit Sale appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Owing a motorcycle is a great accomplishment, pointing to the endless benefits it brings, from convenience in traffic to low parking needs. However, they also come with great responsibility to ensure they are in excellent shape. Neglecting small mechanical problems will result in more expensive repairs later on. The following tips help you prolong the lifespan of your motorcycle. Warm Up the Engine Before Riding Engine damage occurs when riders start their motorcycle before they ride at maximum speed. Warming […] The post How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Motorcycle appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Motorcycles have always carried a certain romance—freedom, independence, and a sense of style that four wheels rarely match. For students, that appeal is often mixed with very practical concerns: cost, reliability, and ease of ownership. A bike isn’t just a toy; it’s transport, identity, and sometimes a first serious mechanical relationship. Over the past few years, smaller and more affordable machines have gained renewed attention, blending classic looks with modern reliability. The result is a new generation of motorcycles that […] The post The Most Popular Budget Motorcycles Among Students appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

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 weekend’s FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs. DeJoria and her Mike Neff / Jonnie Lindberg team took out Cruz Pedregon, Spencer Hyde and JR Todd enroute to the runner-up finish against Chad Green at this year’s Gatornationals. The three round wins in the 2026 NHRA season-opening event brought her career total to 198 heading into this weekend’s Arizona Nationals. “It was absolutely wonderful to be able to get to the final round at Gainesville in our very first race with John Force Racing,” said DeJoria. “It had been two years since I’d been to a final so just the way our Bandero team already works so well with the other JFR teams, the camaraderie, the knowledge and expertise is just unmatched gives us a great base to build on heading to Phoenix.” Her run to victory at the 2014 Arizona Nationals was even more impressive. After a first-round victory over Jeff Arend, the six-time NHRA Funny Car winner bowled over two of her biggest racing heroes – Del Worsham in the second round and current team owner and 16-time NHRA Funny Car Champion John Force in the semi’s. Those two major wins set up the final-round matchup against eventual three-time Funny Car Champion Robert Hight, where she ran 4.043 seconds at 309.63 mph while Hight’s John Force Racing entry lost traction and spun the tires. “Getting my first career Funny Car win in Phoenix in 2014 was such a major deal because I beat my heroes, John Force and Del Worsham, to get there,” DeJoria said. “Those are some huge names there but, my gosh, you’ve got to beat the best to be the best. Going back to Phoenix with the success I’ve had there in the past and what we already have with the current Bandero team, there’s an even greater confidence level in just knowing the racetrack, its little quirks here and there. I was also part of the inaugural Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty race there, which we’re a part of this week, is a hell of a confidence booster.” Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 p.m. ET. on Friday and 12 p.m. on Sunday, leading into eliminations at 6:30 p.m. ET. To purchase tickets to the FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com. The post DeJoria Focused on First JFR Win in Arizona, Site of First Career Win first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

As good as a season-opening win in Gainesville felt for Matt Hartford, a repeat of that at his home track during this weekend’s FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs would represent something extremely special for the Pro Stock veteran. The Phoenix-area resident estimates more than 200 friends, family and Total Seal customers will be on hand to witness what he hopes is a second straight victory to open the 2026 NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series season. The Gainesville win snapped a 40-race winless stretch for Hartford, but he had been close multiple times throughout an otherwise strong 2025 campaign. That momentum carried over into the off-season, and Hartford and his team just kept rolling to open NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, defeating six-time champ Greg Anderson in the final round in Gainesville. Hartford celebrated that – and getting his first diamond Wally of the year – but a Phoenix win in his Total Seal Chevrolet Camaro would mark another high point in his career. “It’s a great feeling knowing we will have that kind of support this weekend,” Hartford said. “We’re going to try to do what we did last year and qualify No. 1, and then hopefully win the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday and follow it up with a victory on Sunday. We had a really competitive car last season as a whole and if you look at the 20-some (Pro Stock) cars out there, we’ve got a car as good as anyone out there. On any given Sunday, though, you’ve got to perform.” As part of NHRA’s yearlong 75th anniversary celebration, fans can expect multiple highlights at Firebird Motorsports Park this weekend, including: An appearance from NHRA legend and four-time world champion Don Prudhomme, as well as Charlie Allen and Jon Lundberg. On Friday, a free, limited-edition rally towel will be given to the first 3,000 fans in attendance to take in two rounds of pro qualifying. A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and 75th anniversary stage in Nitro Alley. Last season, Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Paul Lee (Funny Car), and Anderson (Pro Stock) each earned wins. This year’s race will be broadcast on FS1, with elimination coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 22. It is the second of 20 events and run times were adjusted with the expected heat. Friday qualifying will begin at 9:30 a.m. local time on Friday with Pro Stock, followed by Funny Car and Top Fuel. The second session is slated to start at 12 p.m. On Saturday, Top Fuel will open the day at 10 a.m., followed by Funny Car and Pro Stock. The final qualifying session is scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. with Top Fuel. Sunday eliminations will begin at 10 a.m. local time and gates will open at 7 a.m. Friday through Sunday. With that in mind, Hartford knows he has to be ready to lay down a good run right off the trailer. The first qualifying session might be the best conditions of the weekend for the Pro Stock category and with 20 entries, getting a good start – and getting in the field – will be an immediate priority. There’s a loaded field that includes reigning world champ Dallas Glenn, Anderson, Erica Enders, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Aaron Stanfield, but Hartford is certainly in that mix as well. He’ll race in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday – with the bonus race also featuring Glenn, Anderson and Enders – and simply looking to continue to pick up steam, regardless of the weather. “We felt really good going into the Finals last year, so why reinvent things? The off-season was just an extended break for us,” Hartford said. “We didn’t look at Gainesville as the start of 2026. We just looked at it as the next race after Las Vegas (last fall). “But this weekend, we’re going into conditions nobody is used to running. It’s going to be uncharted territory. You’re going to have to perform on Friday and if you’re not in the field after Q1, you may not get in.” Top Fuel’s Shawn Langdon is after more Phoenix success, taking on a field that includes Gainesville winner Josh Hart, reigning world champ Doug Kalitta, rookie Maddi Gordon, Tony Stewart, Antron Brown and Leah Pruett. Paul Lee returns to the site of his first career Funny Car victory a year ago, looking to take down Gainesville winner Chad Green, back-to-back champ Austin Prock, Matt Hagan, Jordan Vandergriff and Ron Capps. The FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series. Race fans at Firebird Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan-favorite SealMaster Track Walk. As always, fans get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. This opportunity gives fans a chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. Fans can visit NHRA’s popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, and food and fun for the entire family. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 p.m. ET. on Friday and 12 p.m. on Sunday, leading into eliminations at 6:30 p.m. ET. To purchase tickets to the FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com. The post Home Race Means Big Expectations for Gators Pro Stock Winner Matt Hartford in Phoenix first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Dayco, a global leader in high-performance drive system solutions, has announced its 2026 participation in the NHRA Contingency Program. Dayco will post $17,000 for racers competing at the NHRA level in specific classes who run Dayco blower belts and earn win or runner-up finishes. This initiative reinforces Dayco’s commitment to high-horsepower performance and grassroots-to-professional motorsports racing, as the Contingency Program was designed by the NHRA to create a direct connection between manufacturers and racers by rewarding superior performance with tangible financial incentives. For 2026, Dayco will award NHRA racers competing in Pro Mod, Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car classes. Eligible racers who run Dayco’s 8mm blower belts, display the required Dayco decals and meet NHRA Contingency Program guidelines will qualify for payouts when finishing as event winner or runner-up in these classes: Pro Mod ($500 to win, $100 to runner-up per event) Top Alcohol Dragster ($300 to win, $100 to runner-up per event) Top Alcohol Funny Car ($300 to win, $100 to runner-up per event) Dayco blower belts are engineered for extreme racing environments, delivering superior grip, reduced stretch, and consistent power transfer under high boost conditions. Designed to withstand the punishing demands of supercharged engines, Dayco belts are trusted by racers who compete at the highest levels of racing. “Our blower belts have become the belt of choice for several Top Fuel and Pro Mod teams due to their durability,” said Dipesh Maniar, head of Dayco North America’s motorsports program. “The drivers we partner with have seen our belts last two to three times longer than competitor belts so we are eager to see how many more drivers we can help reach the winner’s circle.” The NHRA Contingency Program rewards racers for using and promoting products from participating manufacturers. With more than 100 brands involved, it remains one of the most powerful marketing partnerships in motorsports, directly benefiting racers who align with performance-driven companies like Dayco. Racers interest in learning more about Dayco blower belts can click here. Details on eligible categories, payout levels and decal requirements will be available through NHRA’s official contingency portal: NHRA.com/Competition/Contingency. The post Dayco Joins NHRA Contingency Program first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Defending event champion Paul Lee heads into this weekend’s NHRA Arizona Nationals at Firebird Motorsports Park with Mainline Sales, Inc. returning as the primary partner on the Paul Lee Racing Nitro Funny Car. Lee captured his first career Nitro Funny Car Wally at this event one year ago, marking a milestone victory for both the driver and the growing Paul Lee Racing (PLR) program. Now returning to Phoenix as the defending champions, the team looks to build on that momentum with a refreshed Mainline Sales paint scheme that highlights the company’s continued investment in the partnership. “Coming back to Phoenix as the defending event champion is really special for our entire team,” said Lee. “To have Mainline Sales and so many of their key manufacturing partners represented on our Funny Car makes it even more meaningful. Our Paul Lee Racing program is built on creating real business-to-business opportunities, and we’re proud to help generate new connections while continuing to strengthen the relationships with the partners who have supported us along the way.” Mainline Sales has been a part of Paul Lee Racing since the team’s inception in 2019, making this weekend’s primary sponsorship a continuation of a long-standing relationship rooted in performance and business-to-business growth. The 2026 Arizona Nationals livery will prominently feature the new Mainline Racing logo on the hood, the Mainline Sales corporate branding on the sides, and a collection of key manufacturer partners represented across the rear quarter panels. “This race in Phoenix is especially meaningful for us as we celebrate the opening of Mainline’s new 25,000-square-foot warehouse,” said Alicia Sylvester, Marketing LEAD & amp; Fuel Assistant. “We’re proud to share this milestone alongside Paul Lee and our valued manufacturer partners who have supported our primary sponsorship. Our program continues to grow, and our customers become more energized with every race weekend. It’s a great example of the strong B2B relationships created through Paul Lee and Steven Cole’s vision.” “We’re incredibly excited to move into our new warehouse facility and begin this next chapter of growth for our team,” added Joe Libman, Arizona & Southern Nevada LEAD. “This new space will allow us to operate more efficiently, expand our capabilities, and service the territory even better. As an associate sponsor of Paul Lee Racing over the past several seasons, Mainline Sales continues to see the value of the strong business-to-business relationships built through Paul Lee’s racing program and marketing platform.” The partnership between Mainline Sales and Paul Lee Racing continues to exemplify how motorsports can drive meaningful connections between manufacturers, distributors, and end users. With a shared focus on growth, service, and performance, both organizations have leveraged the NHRA platform to strengthen relationships across multiple markets. As Lee returns to the site of his breakthrough victory, the team aims to defend their title and continue establishing themselves as a consistent contender in Nitro Funny Car competition during the 2026 NHRA season. The post Defending Event Champion Paul Lee Returns to Phoenix with Mainline Sales as Primary Partner for NHRA Arizona Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Tony Stewart Racing’s Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan are set to take on the FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals at Firebird Motorsports Park, the second of 20 events on the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season. Purett, who has a residence in Lake Havasu, will compete for her home crowd in the vibrant Rayce Rudeen Foundation livery on her Top Fuel dragster while Hagan will sport the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage colors on his Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car. Although this is the only event Pruett will primarily feature the Rayce Rudeen Foundation on the side of her dragster, she’ll carry their logo and message the entire race season. When Rayce Rudeen lost his battle with addiction in 2016, his family vowed to help prevent others from suffering the same loss—and with that, the Rayce Rudeen Foundation was born. The foundation honors Rayce’s memory by creating a supportive community in which everyone can access prevention, treatment, recovery, and family support resources—free from stigma. The Rayce Rudeen Foundation implements a diverse approach in working with various organizations to make a sustainable impact in communities by focusing on prevention, treatment, recovery, and support. They encourage a healthy and productive life, free from the disease of addiction and strive to address gaps in the systems of care for those who are struggling with substance misuse. “All of us, fans and racers alike, have more than love of horsepower in common. More than likely we all know someone who is fighting addiction or trying to find support for one in need. The purpose of us flying the Rayce Rudeen Foundation colors on such a large scale is to bring awareness to the resources within communities, fight the stigmatism of recovery, and promote support systems for families navigating trying times,” Pruett explained. “This is something that hits deeper than racing. To represent that and bring awareness to it on a national stage—it’s something I’m really proud of.” Pruett, who is making her second competitive appearance since reclaiming her Top Fuel dragster seat after starting a family, will be racing for her third win at Firebird Motorsports Park. She’s coming off a No. 3 qualifying position and quarterfinal exit at the Gatornationals. “Coming into the weekend, I feel really good, comfortable with every lap, and really focused on building momentum with this team,” Pruett said. “Everyone knows Phoenix is going to be wild hot, even with early qualifying, there still will be some really hot scenarios. I’ve become increasingly impressed with [crew chiefs] Neal Strausbaugh and Mike Domagala’s tuning adaptability given tough conditions. “I’m focused on one thing, and that’s improving as a driver every lap. I don’t feel the extra pressure of Phoenix, because we’re already giving everything we have. I feel pressure most when I’m more afraid of failing, than looking forward to the possibilities and results of succeeding,” Pruett continued. “Knowing what it’s like to win in Phoenix, and have dedicated crews of fans, with custom ‘GO Leah GO’ shirts, and chants on the way to lanes, is a super high level of awesome that is just the starter kit of the Phoenix momentum and fun. Needless to say. I’m eager to see what we can do this weekend.” The 12-time event winner got her first Top Fuel victory at the facility in 2016 and then turned around with a new team and took home the Wally again in 2017. “Phoenix is my adoptive home race for sure. Even before I moved to Arizona. I have always felt the love of the Phoenix fans, like they’ve taken me in as one of their own. Ten years ago, I was an underdog, fairly new on the pro scene, and found myself gravitating and connecting with so many west coast nitro-loving people. They really made me feel at home. They made winning my first Top Fuel race even better,” said Pruett who was also the No. 1 qualifier in 2017. “There weren’t many similarities about my back-to-back wins in Phoenix; They were with completely separate teams, cars, and crew chiefs. Which proves to me that Phoenix loves new energy, and that’s exactly what I have this year.” Her TSR Funny Car teammate Matt Hagan is also no stranger to success at Firebird Motorsports Park. The four-time world champion has raced his way to five final rounds in the desert and picked up three victories in 2015, 2017 and 2019. He has also been No. 1 qualifier three time in 2015, 2020 and most recently in 2022. “Phoenix is one of my favorite races to come to. Everything is great about this place, the atmosphere, who knows, I’d get a winter home here if I could, maybe one day. It’s going to be hot, kind of crazy hot but [crew chiefs] Mike Knudsen and Phil Shuler have proven they can do really well in the heat. We were one of the few cars to go down the hot racetrack during qualifying over the Gainesville weekend. So, I have a lot of confidence with us moving into some of these hotter races,” Hagan said. “We’ll be racing earlier, which is a good call on NHRA even though it’s a little tougher on the guys with the early mornings, but we want to put on a great show for these fans. It could be a lot of pedaling and we’ll have to adjust. One thing about Phil and Mike and our car chief Alex Conaway is they do a great job with that so I’m excited to see what we have in our arsenal.” Hagan is coming off a No. 5 qualifying position and quarterfinal exit at the NHRA Gatornationals a showing that has him entering the Arizona Nationals with his JHG Dodge team fifth in points. Last year at Firedbird Motorsports Park, Hagan qualified 10th before having a quarterfinal exit. “It’s our first race of the year with JHG and I’m excited. Jason Johnson, his wife Nikki, Nate and Genelle Cox, the whole family have become really good friends. I think we need to pull a Phoenix win out for them this year,” Hagan said. “I’ve had a lot of luck here, there’s a good vibe and just feels natural. We have a great car and proven we can get down a tricky racetrack, our team is all working well together, it’s a great group, I know I’ve got some work to do after that holeshot loss in Gainesville but we have the pieces to get the job done and I would love nothing more than to do it this weekend with the whole JHG group here.” Competition at the FMP Arizona Nationals at Firebird Motorsports Park begins with four nitro qualifying sessions Friday and Saturday at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. each day. Eliminations are slated for Sunday at 10 a.m. Television coverage of the event will be on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) starting with a qualifying shows Friday at 10 p.m. ET and Sunday at noon ET. Eliminations will air Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET. This story was originally published on March 18, 2026. The post Leah Pruett Returns to Site of First Top Fuel Win; Matt Hagan Confident in Tricky Conditions first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article