MESA, Ariz. — As John Force enters the NHRA’s 75th season, he finds himself facing a unique mix of drivers to uphold his legendary legacy. With both his daughters, two-time Top Fuel champion Brittany Force and reigning Funny Car champion Austin Prock, stepping away from the racing circuit, Force looks to new talent to carry the torch.
Notably, Jack Beckman, the charismatic 2012 Funny Car champion who has mentored Force’s daughters at Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, remains a vital part of the team. Additionally, Alexis De Joria is eager to pursue her goal of becoming the first female Funny Car champion for John Force Racing, aiming for a monumental 25th championship for the team. “To be invited to drive for John Force Racing means so much to me and is another step forward in my career,” De Joria remarked. She reflects on the legacy of the Force family in the sport, expressing excitement about becoming part of a program known for its unprecedented success.
Meanwhile, newcomers to the NHRA scene include Top Fuel’s Josh Hart and Funny Car’s Jordan Vandergriff, both stepping into remarkable opportunities. Hart will pilot a record-setting dragster previously driven by Brittany Force, having clocked the fastest pass in drag-racing history at 343.51 mph. Hart made his transition after selling his team to Richard Freeman of Elite Motorsports, leading to a reconfiguration of the racing landscape, including Tony Stewart taking on a driving role within Hart’s former team.
Hart expressed optimism about joining John Force Racing, stating, “I’m actually going to get to drive the fastest car in the world. Not everybody can say that.” He emphasized the strong chemistry with the existing crew, promising an enthusiastic approach to the coming season.
Similarly, Vandergriff is poised to reignite his rivalry with Prock, as both have long shared a competitive history since their 2019 rookie seasons. Vandergriff sees the upcoming season as an exciting chance to take their rivalry to new heights, fueling fan engagement.
With storied legacies and budding talents blending into an electrifying season, the NHRA’s 75th anniversary promises thrilling races and dynamic storylines, potentially reshaping the landscape of drag racing for years to come.