Todd Lesenko and Jim Dunn Racing Kick Off 2026 Season at Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals with Solid Progress in Funny Car Return

GAINESVILLE, FL – Todd Lesenko, driver of the Solid Start/True Brand Funny Car for the legendary Jim Dunn Racing team, wrapped up the season-opening Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals with valuable track time and significant improvements, marking a strong foundation for his return to the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.

In his first competitive Funny Car outing in over a decade and his reunion with Jim Dunn Racing since 2012, Lesenko battled challenging track conditions throughout the four qualifying sessions at Gainesville Raceway. After no time in Q1 on Friday, he secured a provisional No. 18 spot in Q2 with a 7.139-second pass at 92.40 mph. Saturday brought major strides: a solid 4.433 at 278.17 mph in Q3 elevated him to No. 14 provisional. Though Q4 resulted in a 12.930 at 69.27 mph that dropped the team outside the field, the weekend provided critical data and acclimation with the car.

Lesenko reflected on the experience: “Qualifying was tough with the tricky track conditions, but we made big improvements getting more acclimated with the car. I’m looking forward to running the True Brand colors at their next event in the inaugural Georgia race. We are confident moving forward in a couple weeks at the second event on the NHRA tour in Phoenix.”

The 2026 campaign represents a meaningful homecoming for both Lesenko and Jim Dunn Racing. A native of Edmonton, Alberta, Lesenko last drove for the team in Funny Car in 2012. Jim Dunn Racing celebrates 76 years in drag racing this season, with 91-year-old founder Jim Dunn—recipient of the 2024 NHRA Lifetime Achievement Award—still actively involved. The team has secured wins in four different decades with five drivers and boasts 14 different drivers who have won rounds in their cars.

Representing Solid Start/True Brand, a women-owned, family-operated automotive additives manufacturer based in Lakeland, Florida, Lesenko highlighted the brand’s legacy and partnerships. Founded in 2010 with roots dating to 1976, Solid Start/True Brand delivers performance-driven products to enhance engine life and performance. The company proudly partners with the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) to raise awareness and support early detection, education, and resources for those affected by breast cancer.

As NHRA marks its landmark 75th anniversary season, Jim Dunn Racing continues its storied tradition of innovation and opportunity in the sport.

The team looks ahead to the next event on the 20-race NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule. For more information, driver updates, and assets, visit NHRA.com or follow @mmtvlive.