Final Round Drama: Josh Hart Claims First Top Fuel Title
GAINESVILLE, FL – The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series roared to life Sunday at the historic 57th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, as drivers delivered high-speed drama and standout performances in front of a capacity crowd at Gainesville Raceway. Kicking off the NHRA’s milestone 75th anniversary season, the event crowned four champions in the premier categories: Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle.
Florida native Josh Hart thrilled the home-state fans with a commanding victory in Top Fuel. Piloting the Burnyzz Speed Shop / Speedmaster Top Fuel Dragster, Hart defeated reigning world champion Doug Kalitta with a blistering 3.733-second pass at 337.83 mph. The win marks Hart’s third career NHRA victory and a strong debut in his new team alignment.
In Funny Car, Chad Green made it back-to-back triumphs at Gainesville, securing his second consecutive Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals title. Driving the Bond Coat Ford Mustang, Green overpowered Alexis DeJoria with a 3.959-second run at 329.91 mph, earning his third career win and proving his dominance on this track.
Matt Hartford delivered a welcome return to the winner’s circle in Pro Stock, claiming his first NHRA victory since 2023. Behind the wheel of the Total Seal Chevrolet Camaro, Hartford edged six-time world champion Greg Anderson with a 6.530-second pass at 210.41 mph (note: final speed listed as 210.41 mph in official results). The triumph at the season opener sets an exciting tone for Hartford’s campaign.
Reigning Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion Richard Gadson wasted no time asserting his title credentials, powering to his fifth career win aboard the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki. Gadson defeated John Hall with a solid 6.753-second pass at 200.05 mph, capping a dominant weekend.
The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues next with the upcoming events in the 20-race schedule. For more information, visit NHRA.com.
video courtesy of NHRA
