Drag racing: Difference between revisions
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[[File:Maryland Army National Guard (3290671976).jpg|300px|thumb|American Drag Racing League's (ADRL) drag racing event held on July 28, 2008, at the Maryland International Raceway]] | [[File:Maryland Army National Guard (3290671976).jpg|300px|thumb|American Drag Racing League's (ADRL) drag racing event held on July 28, 2008, at the Maryland International Raceway]] | ||
'''Drag racing''' is a type of [[motor racing]] in which [[automobile]]s or [[motorcycle]]s compete, usually two at a time, to be first to cross a set finish line. The race follows a short, straight course from a [[standing start]] over a measured distance, most commonly {{convert|1/4|mi|ft | '''Drag racing''' is a type of [[motor racing]] in which [[automobile]]s or [[motorcycle]]s compete, usually two at a time, to be first to cross a set finish line. The race follows a short, straight course from a [[standing start]] over a measured distance, most commonly {{convert|1/4|mi|ft m|0|abbr=on|lk=on}}, with a shorter, {{convert|1,000|ft |mi m|2|abbr=on}} distance becoming increasingly popular, as it has become the standard for [[Top Fuel]] [[Dragster (car)|dragsters]] and [[Funny Car]]s, where some major bracket races and other sanctioning bodies have adopted it as the standard. The {{convert|1/8|mi|ft m|0|abbr=on}} is also popular in some circles. Electronic timing and speed sensing systems have been used to record race results since the 1960s. | ||
The history of automobiles and motorcycles being used for drag racing is nearly as long as the history of motorized vehicles themselves, and has taken the form of both illegal [[street racing]] and as a regulated [[motorsport]]. | The history of automobiles and motorcycles being used for drag racing is nearly as long as the history of motorized vehicles themselves, and has taken the form of both illegal [[street racing]] and as a regulated [[motorsport]]. | ||
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== History == | == History == | ||
Drag racing started in the 1940s. World War II veterans were prominently involved, and some early drag races were done at decommissioned aircraft bases with landing strips that made them an ideal place for the sport. In 1951, Wally Parks formed the [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA).<ref>Post, R. (2001). High performance: The culture and technology of drag racing, 1950–2000 (Rev. ed., Johns Hopkins studies in the history of technology). Baltimore, Md.: Johns Hopkins University Press.</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=NHRA history | url=https://www.nhra.com/nhra-history | publisher=NHRA | accessdate=22 March 2021}}</ref> The organization banned the use of [[nitromethane]] in 1957, calling it unsafe, in part through the efforts of [[C. J. Hart (drag racing)|C. J. Hart]]; the ban would be lifted in 1963.<ref>[http://nostalgiadragworld.com/oldsite/v1i5billottoldhabits.php Nostalgiadragworld.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031052224/http://nostalgiadragworld.com/oldsite/v1i5billottoldhabits.php |date=31 October 2020 }} (retrieved 5 May 2017)</ref> | Drag racing started in the 1940s. [[World War II]] veterans were prominently involved, and some early drag races were done at decommissioned aircraft bases with landing strips that made them an ideal place for the sport. In 1951, [[Wally Parks]] formed the [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA).<ref>Post, R. (2001). High performance: The culture and technology of drag racing, 1950–2000 (Rev. ed., Johns Hopkins studies in the history of technology). Baltimore, Md.: Johns Hopkins University Press.</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=NHRA history | url=https://www.nhra.com/nhra-history | publisher=NHRA | accessdate=22 March 2021}}</ref> The organization banned the use of [[nitromethane]] in 1957, calling it unsafe, in part through the efforts of [[C. J. Hart (drag racing)|C. J. Hart]]; the ban would be lifted in 1963.<ref>[http://nostalgiadragworld.com/oldsite/v1i5billottoldhabits.php Nostalgiadragworld.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031052224/http://nostalgiadragworld.com/oldsite/v1i5billottoldhabits.php |date=31 October 2020 }} (retrieved 5 May 2017)</ref> | ||
Several other racing organizations were created over the past several decades, such as the Professional Drag Racers Association (PDRA) founded in 2014.<ref>What is PDRA Racing Cars? https://www.metroleague.org/what-is-a-pdra-racing-cars/</ref>{{better source needed|date=October 2023}} | Several other racing organizations were created over the past several decades, such as the Professional Drag Racers Association (PDRA) founded in 2014.<ref>What is PDRA Racing Cars? https://www.metroleague.org/what-is-a-pdra-racing-cars/</ref>{{better source needed|date=October 2023}} | ||
Thanks in part to the | Thanks in part to the [[Discovery Channel|Discovery]] series ''[[Street Outlaws]]'', fandom for drag racing has seen a resurgence in the past decade.{{Citation needed|date=February 2024}} | ||
== Basics of drag racing == | == Basics of drag racing == | ||
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=== Starting === | === Starting === | ||
Push starts to get engines running were necessary until the [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA) mandated self-starters in 1976.<ref name="NHRA.com">Burgess, Phil, ''National Dragster'' editor. "Obsolete skills, part 1: On the track", at [https://www.nhra.com/news/2008/obsolete-skills-part-1-track | Push starts to get engines running were necessary until the [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA) mandated self-starters in 1976.<ref name="NHRA.com">Burgess, Phil, ''National Dragster'' editor. "Obsolete skills, part 1: On the track", at [https://www.nhra.com/news/2008/obsolete-skills-part-1-track NHRA.com] (retrieved 22 September 2018)</ref> After [[Burnout (vehicle)|burnouts]], cars would be pushed back by crews; this persisted until NHRA required reversing systems in 1980.<ref name="NHRA.com" /> [[Don Garlits]] was the first to do burnouts across the starting line, which is now standard practice.<ref name="Drag Illustrated">Tocher, Ian. "'Big Daddy' Describes Birth of the Burnout", published 18 March 2018, at [https://dragillustrated.com/big-daddy-describes-birth-of-the-burnout/ ''Drag Illustrated''] (retrieved 23 September 2018)</ref> Each driver then backs up to and stages at the starting line. | ||
=== Prerace preparations === | === Prerace preparations === | ||
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=== Measurements === | === Measurements === | ||
Several measurements are taken for each race: reaction time, elapsed time, and speed. Reaction time is the period from the green light illuminating to the vehicle leaving the staging beams or breaking the guard beam. Elapsed time is the period from the vehicle leaving the starting line to crossing the finish line. Speed is measured through a [[speed trap]] covering the final {{convert|66|ft|m}} to the finish line, indicating average speed of the vehicle in that distance. | Several measurements are taken for each race: reaction time, elapsed time, and speed. Reaction time is the period from the green light illuminating to the vehicle leaving the staging beams or breaking the guard beam. Elapsed time, often abbreviated E.T., is the period from the vehicle leaving the starting line to crossing the finish line. Speed is measured through a [[speed trap]] covering the final {{convert|66|ft|m}} to the finish line, indicating average speed of the vehicle in that distance. | ||
Except where a breakout rule is in place, the winner is the first vehicle to cross the finish line, and therefore the driver with the lowest combined reaction time and elapsed time. Because these times are measured separately, a driver with a slower elapsed time can actually win if that driver's advantage in reaction time exceeds the elapsed time difference. In heads-up racing, this is known as a ''[[holeshot]] win''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhra.com/glossary.aspx|title=NHRA Glossary|publisher=NHRA|access-date=11 August 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130903044153/http://www.nhra.com/glossary.aspx|archive-date=3 September 2013}}</ref> In categories where a breakout rule is in effect (for example, NHRA Junior Dragster, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Stock, and Stock classes, as well as some dial-in classes), if a competitor is faster than his or her predetermined time (a "breakout"), that competitor loses. If both competitors are faster than their predetermined times, the competitor who breaks out by less time wins. Regardless, a red light foul is worse than a breakout, except in | Except where a breakout rule is in place, the winner is the first vehicle to cross the finish line, and therefore the driver with the lowest combined reaction time and elapsed time. Because these times are measured separately, a driver with a slower elapsed time can actually win if that driver's advantage in reaction time exceeds the elapsed time difference. In heads-up racing, this is known as a ''[[holeshot]] win''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhra.com/glossary.aspx|title=NHRA Glossary|publisher=NHRA|access-date=11 August 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130903044153/http://www.nhra.com/glossary.aspx|archive-date=3 September 2013}}</ref> In categories where a breakout rule is in effect (for example, NHRA Junior Dragster, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Stock, and Stock classes, as well as some dial-in classes), if a competitor is faster than his or her predetermined time (a "breakout"), that competitor loses. If both competitors are faster than their predetermined times, the competitor who breaks out by less time wins. Regardless, a red light foul is worse than a breakout, except in selected sportsman and junior classes, where exceeding the absolute limit is a cause for disqualification. | ||
=== Bracket system === | === Bracket system === | ||
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=== Distances === | === Distances === | ||
The standard distance of a drag race is 1,320 feet, 402 m, or 1/4 mile (±0.2% FIA & NHRA rules). However, due to safety concerns, certain sanctioning bodies (notably the NHRA for its Top Fuel and Funny Car classes) have shortened races to 1,000 feet. Some drag strips are even shorter and run 660 feet, 201 m, or 1/8 mile. The 1,000 foot distance is now also popular with bracket racing, especially in meets where there are 1/8 mile cars and 1/4 mile cars racing together, and is used by the revived American Drag Racing League for its primary classes (not Jr Dragster). Some organizations that deal with Pro Modified and "Mountain Motor" Pro Stock cars (Professional Drag Racers Association) use the 1/8 mile distance, even if the tracks are 1/4 mile tracks. | The standard distance of a drag race is 1,320 feet, 402 m, or 1/4 mile (±0.2% FIA & NHRA rules). However, due to safety concerns, certain sanctioning bodies (notably the NHRA for its Top Fuel and Funny Car classes) have shortened races to 1,000 feet. Some drag strips are even shorter and run 660 feet, 201 m, or 1/8 mile. The 1,000 foot distance is now also popular with bracket racing, especially in meets where there are 1/8 mile cars and 1/4 mile cars racing together, and is used by the revived American Drag Racing League for its primary classes (not Jr Dragster). Some organizations that deal with Pro Modified and large capacity "Mountain Motor" Pro Stock cars (Professional Drag Racers Association) use the 1/8 mile distance, even if the tracks are 1/4 mile tracks. | ||
[[File:1958 Fuel Dragster.jpg|thumb|An early example, a 1958 [[Top Fuel|Fuel]] [[Dragster (car)|dragster]] (technically, a [[Hot rod#Rail|rail]]), on display at the California Automobile Museum]] | [[File:1958 Fuel Dragster.jpg|thumb|An early example, a 1958 [[Top Fuel|Fuel]] [[Dragster (car)|dragster]] (technically, a [[Hot rod#Rail|rail]]), on display at the California Automobile Museum]] | ||
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== Racing organizations == | == Racing organizations == | ||
[[File:Delivering timeslips.jpg|thumb|Chief Timer delivering timeslips to competitors after their passes]] | [[File:Delivering timeslips.jpg|thumb|Chief Timer delivering timeslips to competitors after their passes]] | ||
[[File:Blown Altered.JPG|thumb|Blown | [[File:Blown Altered.JPG|thumb|A Blown [[Altered (drag racing)|Altered]] doing a burnout at [[Gimli Motorsports Park|Interlake Dragways]], Gimli, Manitoba]] | ||
=== North America === | === North America === | ||
The [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA) oversees the majority of drag racing events in North America. The | The [[National Hot Rod Association]] (NHRA) oversees the majority of drag racing events in North America. The [[International Hot Rod Association]] (IHRA), one of the historic sanctioning bodies in drag racing, acquired the World Drag Racing Alliance (WDRA), and now represents 117 member tracks across the United States, Canada, Aruba, Australia and New Zealand.<ref>{{cite news|title=IHRA Completes Acquisition Of WDRA|url=https://speedsport.com/drag-racing/ihra-completes-acquisition-of-wdra/|date=November 26, 2025|newspaper=[[Speed Sport]]|accessdate=January 22, 2026}}</ref> | ||
Besides NHRA, IHRA, and WDRA, there are several other racing organizations were created over the past several decades. The Professional Drag Racers Association (PDRA), founded in 2014, races 1/8 mile with events throughout the US. The National Mustang Racers Association (NMRA), started in 1999, is considered the leader in Ford motorsports events.<ref>What is NMRA? https://www.nmradigital.com/drag-racing/c15</ref> The National Muscle Car Association (NMCA), is the longest running major street-legal drag racing association. The NMCA provides competitive and organized national event competitions from grassroots drag racers all the way to the powerful and fast VP Racing Fuels Xtreme [[Pro Modified|Pro Mod]] racers.<ref>What is NMCA? https://www.nmcadigital.com/</ref> | Besides NHRA, IHRA, and WDRA, there are several other racing organizations were created over the past several decades. The Professional Drag Racers Association (PDRA), founded in 2014, races 1/8 mile with events throughout the US. The National Mustang Racers Association (NMRA), started in 1999, is considered the leader in Ford motorsports events.<ref>What is NMRA? https://www.nmradigital.com/drag-racing/c15</ref> The National Muscle Car Association (NMCA), is the longest running major street-legal drag racing association. The NMCA provides competitive and organized national event competitions from grassroots drag racers all the way to the powerful and fast VP Racing Fuels Xtreme [[Pro Modified|Pro Mod]] racers.<ref>What is NMCA? https://www.nmcadigital.com/</ref> | ||
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There are also niche organizations for muscle cars and nostalgia vehicles. The Nostalgia Drag Racing League (NDRL) based in Brownsburg, IN, runs a series of 1/4 mile (402 m) drag races in the Midwest for 1979 and older nostalgic appearing cars, with four classes of competition running in an index system. Pro 7.0 and Pro 7.50 run heads up 200 mile per hour (320 kilometre per hour) passes, while Pro Comp and Pro Gas run 8.0 to 10.0 indices. NDRL competition vehicles typically include Front Engine Dragsters, Altereds, Funny Cars, early Pro Stock clones, Super Stocks and Gassers.<ref name="NDRL Website">{{cite web|last1=Mullin|title=NDRL – Nostalgia Drag Racing League|url=http://www.nostalgiadragleague.com|access-date=3 January 2015}}</ref> | There are also niche organizations for muscle cars and nostalgia vehicles. The Nostalgia Drag Racing League (NDRL) based in Brownsburg, IN, runs a series of 1/4 mile (402 m) drag races in the Midwest for 1979 and older nostalgic appearing cars, with four classes of competition running in an index system. Pro 7.0 and Pro 7.50 run heads up 200 mile per hour (320 kilometre per hour) passes, while Pro Comp and Pro Gas run 8.0 to 10.0 indices. NDRL competition vehicles typically include Front Engine Dragsters, Altereds, Funny Cars, early Pro Stock clones, Super Stocks and Gassers.<ref name="NDRL Website">{{cite web|last1=Mullin|title=NDRL – Nostalgia Drag Racing League|url=http://www.nostalgiadragleague.com|access-date=3 January 2015}}</ref> | ||
The [[National Electric Drag Racing Association]] (NEDRA) races [[electric vehicle]]s against high performance gasoline-powered vehicles such as [[Dodge Vipers]] or classic [[muscle car]]s in 1/4 and 1/8 mile (402 m & 201 m) races. The current [[electric drag racing]] record is <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nedra.com/200mph_club.html |title=National Electric Drag Racing Association – Roger Hedlund 200 mph Club |publisher=Nedra.com |date=4 April 2012 |access-date=30 August 2019}}</ref> 6.940 seconds at 201.37 mph (324.0736 km/h) for a quarter mile (402 m). Another niche organization is the VWDRC which run a VW-only championship with vehicles running under 7 seconds. | The [[National Electric Drag Racing Association]] (NEDRA) races [[electric vehicle]]s against high performance gasoline-powered vehicles such as [[Dodge Vipers]] or classic [[muscle car]]s in 1/4 and 1/8 mile (402 m & 201 m) races. The current [[electric drag racing]] record is<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nedra.com/200mph_club.html |title=National Electric Drag Racing Association – Roger Hedlund 200 mph Club |publisher=Nedra.com |date=4 April 2012 |access-date=30 August 2019}}</ref> 6.940 seconds at 201.37 mph (324.0736 km/h) for a quarter mile (402 m). Another niche organization is the VWDRC which run a VW-only championship with vehicles running under 7 seconds. | ||
Prior to the founding of the NHRA and IHRA, smaller organizations sanctioned drag racing in the early years, which included the competing AHRA in the United States and Canada from 1955 to 2005. | Prior to the founding of the NHRA and IHRA, smaller organizations sanctioned drag racing in the early years, which included the competing AHRA in the United States and Canada from 1955 to 2005. | ||
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The Summit Sportsman Series is for ANDRA sportsman drivers and riders and includes Competition, Super Stock, Super Compact, Competition Bike, Supercharged Outlaws, Top Sportsman, Modified, Super Sedan, Modified Bike, Super Street and Junior Dragster. | The Summit Sportsman Series is for ANDRA sportsman drivers and riders and includes Competition, Super Stock, Super Compact, Competition Bike, Supercharged Outlaws, Top Sportsman, Modified, Super Sedan, Modified Bike, Super Street and Junior Dragster. | ||
In 2015, after a dispute with ANDRA, Sydney Dragway, Willowbank Raceway and the Perth Motorplex invited the [[International Hot Rod Association]] (IHRA) to sanction events at their tracks. Shortly thereafter the Perth Motorplex reverted to ANDRA sanction. Although greatly assisted by ANDRA prior | In 2015, after a dispute with ANDRA, Sydney Dragway, Willowbank Raceway and the Perth Motorplex invited the [[International Hot Rod Association]] (IHRA) to sanction events at their tracks. Shortly thereafter the Perth Motorplex reverted to ANDRA sanction. Although greatly assisted by ANDRA prior to its construction, Springmount Raceway opted for IHRA sanction. The 400 Thunder Series targets professional racers to its races. Intended to be the premier Drag racing series in Australia it has never been able to run a truly National series and has been on a steady decline since its inception. Most recently Top Fuel Australia (the organization that represents the Top Fuel owners) recently extracted itself from the 400 Thunder series. ANDRA launched a new National series that will initially cater for Top Doorslammer and Top Fuel Motorcycle. This series will provide a greater National coverage than the 400 Thunder Series did and will soon add other Professional categories. | ||
to its construction, Springmount Raceway opted for IHRA sanction. The 400 Thunder Series targets professional racers to its races. Intended to be the premier Drag racing series in Australia it has never been able | |||
to run a truly National series and has been on a steady decline since its inception. Most recently Top Fuel Australia (the organization that represents the Top Fuel owners) recently extracted itself from the 400 Thunder series. ANDRA | |||
===Europe=== | ===Europe=== | ||
Drag racing was imported to Europe by American NATO troops during the Cold War.<ref name="francedrag">{{cite web |url=http://promotop.org/francedrag/modules/news/ |title=History |publisher=francedrag.com}}</ref> | Drag racing was imported to Europe by American NATO troops during the Cold War.<ref name="francedrag">{{cite web |url=http://promotop.org/francedrag/modules/news/ |title=History |publisher=francedrag.com}}</ref> In the UK, drag racers used various airstrips and racing circuits<ref name="uk">{{cite web |url=http://www.trakbytes.co.uk/6064.html|title=UK drag racing history 1960–1964|publisher=www.trakbytes.co.uk}}</ref> before the opening of Europe's first permanent drag strip at [[Santa Pod Raceway]] in 1966. First drag races in West Germany were held beginning in the 1960s at the US Forces facilities at [[Ramstein Air Base]] and nearby [[Sembach Kaserne]],<ref name="germany">{{cite web |url=http://dragracinghistory.de/contents/history1968.html |title=Drag racing history in Germany |publisher=dragracinghistory.de | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312193927/http://dragracinghistory.de/contents/history1968.html |archive-date=2016-03-12 }}</ref> but it was at the [[Hanau Army Airfield]] in Erlensee where officers supported drag racing and the ''Hanau Auto Racing Association'' (HARA) founded in 1968 with leading figure Jerry W. Lackey (†2023)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hara-dragracing.com/wir-ueber-uns-2/wir-ueber-uns/|title=HARA History {{pipe}} Hanau Auto Racing Association|first1=HARA History Die HARA wurde in 1968 gegründet als rein amerikanischer|last1=Club|first2=der noch nicht als Verein im deutschen Vereinsregister eingetragen war und auch nicht als Kooperativ|last2=Verein|first3=bei den Deutschen Motorsport Verbänden anerkannt war Es gab zwar eine handvoll Deutsche Mitglieder aber noch war der Verein nur von der US Armee anerkannt Nachdem sich nun die ersten Gründungsmitglieder fanden mussten einige Vorbereitungen getroffen|last3=werden|first4=damit der Hanau Auto Racing Association loslegen konnte Die kleine Truppe leistete damals in kürzester Zeit|last4=allesmögliche|first5=damit die Rennen so schnell wie möglich in Hanau stattfinden konnten Zu den Aufgaben gehörte z B. die Einholung der Genehmigung des US Militärs um die Airbase in Erlenseeals Rennstrecke zu|last5=verwenden|first6=die Eintragung bei der|last6=NHRA|first7=die Beantragung von deutschen|last7=Rennlizenzen|first8=die Erstellung von Vereinsunterlagen Außerdem musste die Berichterstattung in der|last8=US-Militärzeitung „Stars|first9=Stripes“ musste arrangiert|last9=werden|first10=Formulare und Eintrittskarten mussten gedruckt|last10=werden|first11=es mussten Angebote für Pokale eingeholt werden und die Liste der Aufgaben wurde immer länger Die Gründer mussten sehr viel Überzeugungsarbeit|last11=leisten|first12=damit die HARA auf dem Fliegerhorst in Erlensee ihre Rennen veranstalten durften Eines der Gründungsmitglieder Captain|last12=Tomkins|first13=der selbst Pilot für die auf dem Fliegerhorst stationierten Mohawk Turbo Jets|last13=war|first14=hat bei den Verhandlungen mit den Verantwortlichen des|last14=Fliegerhorsts|first15=eine wesentliche Rolle gespielt Das Engagement von Captain Tomkins hat viel bewegt und dies half dem Verein|last15=erheblich|first16=die Genehmigung zu erhalten um HARA Rennveranstaltungen durchzuführen Der langjährige HARA Vorsitzender Jerry Lackeyerzählte einst das Captain Tomkins sogar so engagier gewesen|last16=sei|first17=das er einen Mohawk Jet auch mal zum trocknen der Rennstrecke|last17=einsetzte|first18=wenn es mal beim Rennen Regen gab Zu den ersten Mitgliedern im ersten Jahr der HARA gehörten unter anderen: Jerry W.|last18=Lackey|first19=Malclom|last19=Barnett|first20=Captain|last20=Tomkins|first21=Bob|last21=Tomek|first22=Willi und Hedi|last22=Lackey|first23=Paul und Nedra|last23=Creamer|first24=Peter|last24=Schmidt|first25=Delton|last25=Hix|first26=Larry D.|last26=Jones|first27=Lee Parnell und Tyron|last27=Philipps|accessdate=18 September 2025}}</ref> that was leading German drag racing for decades, and in 1986 started dragracing on the [[Hockenheimring]]. In the first years, the start finish straight was used form 1/8 Racing, but in 1989 the first Quartermile was built, running into the forest section. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, in the 1990s some former Soviet and NVA airfields in former GDR were used for dragracing events. | ||
The [[FIA]] organises a Europe-wide four wheeled championship for the Top Fuel, Top Methanol Dragster, Top Methanol Funny Car, Pro Modified and Pro Stock classes. [[Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme|FIM Europe]] organises a similar championship for bike classes. In addition, championships are run for sportsman classes in many countries throughout Europe by the various national motorsport governing bodies. | The [[FIA]] organises a Europe-wide four wheeled championship for the Top Fuel, Top Methanol Dragster, Top Methanol Funny Car, Pro Modified and Pro Stock classes. [[Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme|FIM Europe]] organises a similar championship for bike classes. In addition, championships are run for sportsman classes in many countries throughout Europe by the various national motorsport governing bodies. | ||
One of the greatest tournament is the yearly [[:de:NitrolympX|NitrolympiX]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-19 |title=NitrOlympX - Wenn die Luft brennt und das Motodrom zittert |url=https://www.nitrolympx.de/ |access-date=2025-01-03 |website=NitrOlympX |language=de-DE}}</ref> on the [[Hockenheimring| | One of the greatest tournament is the yearly [[:de:NitrolympX|NitrolympiX]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-19 |title=NitrOlympX - Wenn die Luft brennt und das Motodrom zittert |url=https://www.nitrolympx.de/ |access-date=2025-01-03 |website=NitrOlympX |language=de-DE}}</ref> on the [[Hockenheimring]] racetrack, the only major Drag racing even in continental Europe. Apart from Santa Pod in the UK, other FIA/FIM round are or were held in Scandinavia, in place like [[Gardermoen Air Station|Gardermoen]] (Norway), [[Tierp Arena]] (Sweden), or [[Alastaro Circuit]] (Finland). | ||
=== New Zealand === | === New Zealand === | ||
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Many countries in South America are eighth-mile tracks. | Many countries in South America are eighth-mile tracks. | ||
Organized drag racing in Brazil is the responsibility of Club G3, a private organization. The events take place at Autódromo de Tocancipá.{{ | Organized drag racing in Brazil is the responsibility of Club G3, a private organization. The events take place at Autódromo de Tocancipá.{{citation needed|date=December 2024}} | ||
=== Brazil === | === Brazil === | ||
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=== South Asia === | === South Asia === | ||
Organized drag racing is rapidly growing in [[India]]. The country's first drag race meet was organized by ''Autocar India'' in Mumbai in 2002. Since then there have been many drag racing events in India. The most popular event is Elite Octanes' Valley Run which is held at Ambey Valley air strip in [[Lonavla|Loanavla]] every year. | Organized drag racing is rapidly growing in [[India]]. The country's first drag race meet was organized by Western India Sports Association for ''Autocar India'' in Mumbai in 2002. Since then, there have been many drag racing events in India. The most popular event is Elite Octanes' Valley Run which is held at Ambey Valley air strip in [[Lonavla|Loanavla]] every year. | ||
The biggest drag series event was organized by India Speed Week with three different locations around India. After the series two riders were chosen to represent the country 2017 initiative to bring 11 times world drag racing champion Rickey Gadson to India. The initiative was executed during the Valley Run 2017 event, which gave the participants a platform to perform at the highest level globally. Rickey Gadson, as an extension of the initiative invited two of the top performing drag racers to visit USA to train and get an opportunity to represent India at the World Finals of drag racing held on 16–18 November 2018 in [[Valdosta, Georgia|Valdosta]] GA, USA.<ref name="autocarindia.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.autocarindia.com/motor-sports-news/indian-riders-to-compete-in-world-finals-of-motorcycle-drag-racing-410209|title=Indian riders to compete in World Finals of Motorcycle Drag Racing|website=Autocar India}}</ref><ref name="dragbike.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.dragbike.com/man-cup-indian-riders-to-compete-at-world-finals/|title=Man Cup: Indian Riders to Compete in World Finals|date=26 October 2018}}</ref> As a result, the two riders performed in their maiden event outside India. Also during the event, Amit Sharma, the fastest drag racer in Indian drag racing history, produced a time slip of 8.87 sec's – the fastest ever by any Indian.<ref name="india">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1060409/asp/look/story_6060932.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060516202455/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1060409/asp/look/story_6060932.asp|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 May 2006|title=Men in Drag|work=The Telegraph|location=[[Kolkata|Calcutta]]}}</ref> | The biggest drag series event was organized by India Speed Week with three different locations around India. After the series two riders were chosen to represent the country 2017 initiative to bring 11 times world drag racing champion Rickey Gadson to India. The initiative was executed during the Valley Run 2017 event, which gave the participants a platform to perform at the highest level globally. Rickey Gadson, as an extension of the initiative invited two of the top performing drag racers to visit USA to train and get an opportunity to represent India at the World Finals of drag racing held on 16–18 November 2018 in [[Valdosta, Georgia|Valdosta]] GA, USA.<ref name="autocarindia.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.autocarindia.com/motor-sports-news/indian-riders-to-compete-in-world-finals-of-motorcycle-drag-racing-410209|title=Indian riders to compete in World Finals of Motorcycle Drag Racing|website=Autocar India}}</ref><ref name="dragbike.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.dragbike.com/man-cup-indian-riders-to-compete-at-world-finals/|title=Man Cup: Indian Riders to Compete in World Finals|date=26 October 2018}}</ref> As a result, the two riders performed in their maiden event outside India. Also during the event, Amit Sharma, the fastest drag racer in Indian drag racing history, produced a time slip of 8.87 sec's – the fastest ever by any Indian.<ref name="india">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1060409/asp/look/story_6060932.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060516202455/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1060409/asp/look/story_6060932.asp|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 May 2006|title=Men in Drag|work=The Telegraph|location=[[Kolkata|Calcutta]]}}</ref> | ||
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=== Japan === | === Japan === | ||
Drag racing is performed in Japan as the racing sport was initially influenced by American Servicemen and US movies and like in the early US-scene days, impromptu street drag racing occurred and eventually tracks were found to hold more official events. The local scene reduced after the closure of Sendai Hi-Lands and the withdrawal of HKS official factory team. Currently, Japan Drag Festival https://drag-jp.com/ holds No-Prep events at Central Circuit https://central-circuit.com/ and Twin Motegi https://www.mr-motegi.jp/eng/motorsports_m/ | Drag racing is performed in Japan as the racing sport was initially influenced by American Servicemen and US movies and like in the early US-scene days, impromptu street drag racing occurred and eventually tracks were found to hold more official events. The local scene reduced after the closure of Sendai Hi-Lands and the withdrawal of HKS official factory team. Currently, Japan Drag Festival [https://drag-jp.com/ dragfestival] holds No-Prep events at Central Circuit [https://central-circuit.com/ セントラルサーキットオフィシャルブログ] and Twin Motegi [https://www.mr-motegi.jp/eng/motorsports_m/ Motorsports | Mobility Resort Motegi] | ||
=== South Africa === | === South Africa === | ||
Drag racing is an established sport in South Africa, with a number of strips around the country including [[Tarlton International Raceway]] and ODI Raceway. Drag racing is controlled by Motorsport South Africa and all drivers are required to hold a valid Motorsport South Africa license.<ref name="msa2010">{{cite web|title=2010 MSA Drag Racing Handbook|url=http://www.tarltonrace.com/2010/2010%20MSA%20Drag%20Racing%20Rulebook.pdf|access-date=31 October 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101203231846/http://www.tarltonrace.com/2010/2010%20MSA%20Drag%20Racing%20Rulebook.pdf|archive-date=3 December 2010}}</ref> Drivers can compete in a number of categories including Top Eliminator, Senior Eliminator, Super Competition Eliminator, Competition Eliminator, Pro Street Bikes, Superbike Eliminator, Supersport Shootout (motorcycle), Street Modified, and Factory Stock.<ref name="msa2010" /> | Drag racing is an established sport in South Africa, with a number of strips around the country including [[Tarlton International Raceway]] and ODI Raceway. Drag racing is controlled by Motorsport South Africa and all drivers are required to hold a valid Motorsport South Africa license.<ref name="msa2010">{{cite web|title=2010 MSA Drag Racing Handbook|url=http://www.tarltonrace.com/2010/2010%20MSA%20Drag%20Racing%20Rulebook.pdf|access-date=31 October 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101203231846/http://www.tarltonrace.com/2010/2010%20MSA%20Drag%20Racing%20Rulebook.pdf|archive-date=3 December 2010}}</ref> Drivers can compete in a number of categories including Top Eliminator, Senior Eliminator, Super Competition Eliminator, Competition Eliminator, Pro Street Bikes, Superbike Eliminator, Supersport Shootout (motorcycle), Street Modified, and Factory Stock.<ref name="msa2010" /> | ||
'''Sweden''' | |||
Drag racing in Sweden is organised today under several frameworks and sanctioning bodies. Until 2012, only the Swedish Automobile Sports Federation (SBF) and the Swedish Motorcycle and Snowmobile Federation (SVEMO) managed national licences and events. Following a ruling by the Market Court (Marknadsdomstolen decision 2012:16, case A 5/11, 20 December 2012), SBF's exclusive right to sanction competitions was deemed anti-competitive.<ref>[https://lagen.nu/dom/md/2012:16 Market Court decision 2012:16 – Competition case]</ref> | |||
Since then, independent organisers and companies have entered the field, including Nitroz AB, which collaborates with clubs and event organisers to manage race administration, licensing, timing, and safety standards.<ref>[https://www.konkurrensverket.se/konkurrens/tillsyn-arenden-och-beslut/arendelista/svenska-bilsportsforbundet/ Swedish Competition Authority – SBF case summary]</ref> | |||
A Swedish-developed timing system, TimeTree, is used on most drag racing tracks in the Nordic countries and integrates with [https://www.dragracing.eu dragracing.eu], an online platform for event entry, results, and live data streaming.<ref>[https://www.timetree.se TimeTree official website]</ref><ref>[https://ndrg.no/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/EDRS-Guidelines-20170131.pdf EDRS Guidelines – European Drag Racing Series]</ref> | |||
Permanent drag racing tracks in Sweden include Pite Dragway, Tierp Arena (Tierp), Mantorp Park (Östergötland), Malmö Raceway (Malmö), Helsinge Raceway (Söderhamn) and Sundsvall Raceway (Sundsvall). Malmö Raceway is operated by the non-profit SRIF (Skåne Racers Ideella Förening) and measures 201 m ({{frac|1|8}} mile), operating during the summer season. Lindesberg also has a purpose-built drag racing facility with concrete safety walls. | |||
Historically, many events have been held on airfields, for example in Barkarby, Borlänge, Bulltofta, Eskilstuna, Fällfors, Hagfors, Mora, Nyköping, Orsa, Piteå, Tullinge, Uppsala, Vårgårda, and Västerås. | |||
Drag racing in Sweden features a broad range of classes for both cars and motorcycles, from junior categories to professional ones such as Top Fuel Dragster. Drivers may begin racing the year they turn eight in Junior Dragster or ten in Junior Dragbike. | |||
=== Russian Federation === | === Russian Federation === | ||
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== Classes == | == Classes == | ||
[[File:Caterpiller-sponsored dragster.jpg|thumb|right|Caterpillar-sponsored dragster. Note wide slicks and high-mounted wing, to assist traction.]] | [[File:Caterpiller-sponsored dragster.jpg|thumb|right|[[Caterpillar Inc.|Caterpillar]]-sponsored dragster. Note wide slicks and high-mounted wing, to assist traction.]] | ||
There are hundreds of classes in drag racing, each with different requirements and restrictions on things such as weight, engine size, body style, modifications, and many others. [[NHRA]] and [[International Hot Rod Association|IHRA]] share some of these classes, but many are solely used by one sanctioning body or the other. The NHRA boasts over 200 classes, while the IHRA has fewer. Some IHRA classes have multiple sub-classes in them to differentiate by engine components and other features. There is even a class for aspiring youngsters, [[Junior Dragster]], which typically uses an eighth-mile track, also favored by VW racers. | There are hundreds of classes in drag racing, each with different requirements and restrictions on things such as weight, engine size, body style, modifications, and many others. [[NHRA]] and [[International Hot Rod Association|IHRA]] share some of these classes, but many are solely used by one sanctioning body or the other. The NHRA boasts over 200 classes, while the IHRA has fewer. Some IHRA classes have multiple sub-classes in them to differentiate by engine components and other features. There is even a class for aspiring youngsters, [[Junior Dragster]], which typically uses an eighth-mile track, also favored by VW racers. | ||
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* [[Top Fuel]] Dragster (TF/D). The dragsters, or "diggers", are the fastest class. Among the fastest-accelerating machines in the world, these cars can cover the dragstrip in less than 3.7 seconds and record trap speeds over {{convert|330|mph|abbr=on}}. Under current rules, Modern Top Fuel dragsters are {{convert|25|ft|abbr=on}} long and weigh {{convert|2,320|lb|abbr=on}}<!--under current rules...--> in race-ready trim. Methanol mixed with up to 90% [[nitromethane]] is used as fuel. | * [[Top Fuel]] Dragster (TF/D). The dragsters, or "diggers", are the fastest class. Among the fastest-accelerating machines in the world, these cars can cover the dragstrip in less than 3.7 seconds and record trap speeds over {{convert|330|mph|abbr=on}}. Under current rules, Modern Top Fuel dragsters are {{convert|25|ft|abbr=on}} long and weigh {{convert|2,320|lb|abbr=on}}<!--under current rules...--> in race-ready trim. Methanol mixed with up to 90% [[nitromethane]] is used as fuel. | ||
[[File:Funny Car AAA.JPG|thumb|Typical Funny | [[File:Funny Car AAA.JPG|thumb|Typical Funny Car<!--identify the cars & place! Are these actual TF/FCs?-->]] | ||
* Top Fuel [[Funny Car]] (TF/FC). Similar to their dragster counterparts but with a shorter wheelbase and a carbon-fiber body that loosely resembles a production automobile, Funny Cars, or "floppers", routinely run in the 4.0s and can exceed 315 mph. In 2017, NHRA driver [[Robert Hight]] ran a career-best ET of 3.793 and speed of 339.87 mph. | * Top Fuel [[Funny Car]] (TF/FC). Similar to their dragster counterparts but with a shorter wheelbase and a carbon-fiber body that loosely resembles a production automobile, Funny Cars, or "floppers", routinely run in the 4.0s and can exceed 315 mph. In 2017, NHRA driver [[Robert Hight]] ran a career-best ET of 3.793 and speed of 339.87 mph. | ||
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[[File:Super Stock.JPG|thumb|A typical Super Stock car<!--identify the car & place!-->]] | [[File:Super Stock.JPG|thumb|A typical Super Stock car<!--identify the car & place!-->]] | ||
* Super Stock. Super Stock vehicles resemble ordinary passenger cars, but are actually heavily modified. Entries are classified using factory shipping weight and horsepower and compete on indexes. The breakout rule is enforced. | * Super Stock. Super Stock vehicles resemble ordinary passenger cars, but are actually heavily modified. Entries are classified using factory shipping weight and horsepower and compete on indexes. The breakout rule is enforced. | ||
{{anchor|Stock (drag racing class)}} | |||
* Stock. Stock cars are similar to Super Stockers, but rules regarding everything from engine modifications to body alterations are much stricter. Virtually any car is eligible to compete, and entries are classified using factory shipping weight and horsepower. | * Stock. Stock cars are similar to Super Stockers, but rules regarding everything from engine modifications to body alterations are much stricter. Virtually any car is eligible to compete, and entries are classified using factory shipping weight and horsepower. | ||
* [[Sport Compact]] | * [[Sport Compact]] | ||
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To allow different cars to compete against each other, some competitions are raced on a handicap basis, with faster cars delayed on the starting line enough to theoretically even things up with the slower car. This may be based on rule differences between the cars in stock, super stock, and modified classes, or on a competitor's chosen "dial-in" in [[bracket racing]]. | To allow different cars to compete against each other, some competitions are raced on a handicap basis, with faster cars delayed on the starting line enough to theoretically even things up with the slower car. This may be based on rule differences between the cars in stock, super stock, and modified classes, or on a competitor's chosen "dial-in" in [[bracket racing]]. | ||
For a list of drag racing [[world record]]s in each class, see | For a list of drag racing [[world record]]s in each class, see {{sectionlink|Dragstrip|Quarter mile times}}. | ||
== Dial-in == | == Dial-in == | ||
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== Historic cars == | == Historic cars == | ||
[[File:White owl rear shot.jpg|thumb|''Smokin' White Owl'', built by "Ollie" Morris in 1954]] | [[File:White owl rear shot.jpg|thumb|''Smokin' White Owl'', built by "Ollie" Morris in 1954]] | ||
* 1954 | * 1954 – first [[Front engine dragster|slingshot]], built by [[Mickey Thompson]];<ref name="Hot Rod, 12/86, p.29 sidebar">''Hot Rod'', 12/86, p. 29 sidebar.</ref> ''Smokin' White Owl'' built by Ollie Morris, first purpose-built rear-engined dragster and first to use a Chevrolet V8 engine.<ref>{{Cite journal|title = Smokin' White Owl|date = November 1954|journal = Hot Rod}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|title = High Performance The Culture and Technology of Drag Racing 1950-2000|last = Post|first = Robert C.|publisher = Johns Hopkins University Press|year = 2001|isbn = 0-8018-6664-2|location = Baltimore, Maryland|page = [https://archive.org/details/highperformancec00post_0/page/38 38]|url-access = registration|url = https://archive.org/details/highperformancec00post_0/page/38}}</ref> | ||
* 1962 | * 1962 – the Greer–[[Keith Black (engineer)|Black]]–[[Don Prudhomme|Prudhomme]] dragster, with the best win record in NHRA history.<ref name="Hot Rod, 12/86, p.29 sidebar" /> | ||
* 1966 | * 1966 – [[Don Nicholson]]'s Eliminator I, the first true [[Funny Car]], built by [[Logghe Stamping Company|Logghe Brothers]].<ref name="Hot Rod, 12/86, p.29 sidebar" /> | ||
* 1971 | * 1971 – ''Swamp Rat XIV'' (or ''Swamp Rat 1-R''), first successful rear-engined dragster, built by [[Don Garlits]];<ref>''Hot Rod'', 12/86, p.28.</ref> [[Ed Donovan (engine builder)|Ed Donovan]] introduces the 417 [[Donovan hemi]], an aluminum copy of the Chrysler.<ref>''Street Rodder'', 7/94, p.144.</ref> | ||
* 1974 | * 1974 – first tube chassis [[Pro Stock]] car, [[Bill Jenkins (racer)|Bill Jenkins]]' 1972 [[Chevrolet Vega]].<ref>''Super Chevy'', 5/94, p.16.</ref> | ||
* 1979 | * 1979 – ''Vanishing Point'', rocket-powered funny car built by [[Sammy Miller (engineer)|Sammy Miller]], set current standing world record for fastest quarter-mile time (3.58 seconds) in 1984.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.britishdragracinghof.co.uk/inducted-members/sammy-miller/ |title= British Drag Racing Hall of Fame — Sammy Miller |author=<!--Not stated--> |date= 2008 |website= British Drag Racing Hall of Fame |access-date= 27 April 2019 }}</ref> | ||
== Glossary == | == Glossary == | ||
{{Main|List of motorsport terminology}} | {{Main|List of motorsport terminology}} | ||
* Back half – the second half of a track, e.g. from the 1/8 mile to mark to the 1,000 foot or 1/4 mile mark for a standard track | * Back half – the second half of a track, e.g. from the 1/8 mile to mark to the 1,000 foot or 1/4 mile mark for a standard track | ||
* Beam – electronic device (e.g. an optical beam) at the starting line to detect a car's staging position | * Beam – electronic device (e.g. an optical beam) at the starting line to detect a car's staging position | ||
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* Pro tree – style of starting a race where the timing lights flash all three yellow lights simultaneously, and after four tenths of a second, turn green. Compare to "Standard tree". | * Pro tree – style of starting a race where the timing lights flash all three yellow lights simultaneously, and after four tenths of a second, turn green. Compare to "Standard tree". | ||
* Put on the trailer – lost (got "put on the trailer") or won (put the other driver on the trailer) | * Put on the trailer – lost (got "put on the trailer") or won (put the other driver on the trailer) | ||
* Quad - when a drag racing event features four cars in a single race, each race is called a Quad. | * Quad - when a drag racing event features four cars in a single race, each race is called a Quad. | ||
* Quick 8 (Q8) – quickest eight cars in a defined race | * Quick 8 (Q8) – quickest eight cars in a defined race | ||
* Rail – dragster (as distinct from bodied car or flopper). From the exposed frame rails of early cars. | * Rail – dragster (as distinct from bodied car or flopper). From the exposed frame rails of early cars. | ||
* Redlight(ed) – jump(ed) the start, left before tree turned green. This is a loss unless the opponent commits a more serious foul (boundary lines or failed inspection). | * Redlight(ed) – jump(ed) the start, left before tree turned green. This is a loss unless the opponent commits a more serious foul (boundary lines or failed inspection). | ||
* Red Cherry – red light<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dragracingonline.com/raceresults/2012/xiv_11-andra-5.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325173548/http://www.dragracingonline.com/raceresults/2012/xiv_11-andra-5.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=25 March 2014|title= | * Red Cherry – red light<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dragracingonline.com/raceresults/2012/xiv_11-andra-5.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325173548/http://www.dragracingonline.com/raceresults/2012/xiv_11-andra-5.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=25 March 2014|title=Drag Racing Online: ANDRA Nationals at Sydney, Australia – 11/12/2012|access-date=17 April 2016}}</ref> | ||
* Sandbagging – releasing the throttle or using the brakes at the end of the track during a bracket race after dialing a purposely slow time. Considered a dirty trick or tantamount to cheating in amateur classes. | * Sandbagging – releasing the throttle or using the brakes at the end of the track during a bracket race after dialing a purposely slow time. Considered a dirty trick or tantamount to cheating in amateur classes. | ||
* Scattershield – metal sheet protecting driver in case of transmission failure<ref>Its invention is credited to Vic King and Pete Wolley for their X/Gas digger in 1959. Dain Gingerelli, "Midnight Oil!" in ''American Rodder'', 6/94, p.81.</ref> | * Scattershield – metal sheet protecting driver in case of transmission failure<ref>Its invention is credited to Vic King and Pete Wolley for their X/Gas digger in 1959. Dain Gingerelli, "Midnight Oil!" in ''American Rodder'', 6/94, p.81.</ref> | ||