Kalitta Powers Ahead: A Provisional No. 1
ROCKINGHAM, NC – September 26, 2026 – Doug Kalitta, the reigning Top Fuel world champion, showed impressive skill at Rockingham Dragway, finishing the qualifying rounds in a remarkable 3.682-seconds at 338.09 mph, landing him in the top spot for the NHRA Nationals. As he gears up for the next phase in the Countdown to the Championship, this is Kalitta's chance to secure his sixth No. 1 qualifier of the year.
Competition Heating Up
Kalitta’s teammate, Shawn Langdon, currently leads the points but finds himself in seventh place after qualifying, which showcases the competitive pressure there is at these pivotal races. Meanwhile, Kalitta emphasized the importance of accumulating points during qualifying rounds, reflecting on the struggles of previous close encounters where every point counted: “Every point counts... We’re down to five races, so you have to.” Staying aware of these details keeps racers and fans engaged throughout the intense racing season.
Capps Finds His Groove
In Funny Car, Ron Capps captured the audience’s attention by powering his NAPA Auto Care Toyota to a stellar run of 3.870 at 330.40 mph. This marks an exciting moment for the three-time champ, as he tries to regain momentum after entering the weekend in fourth place. Notably, the conditions at Rockingham have changed for the better, the track now smoother than remembered from previous years. Capps remarked, “It’s got transitions... and I couldn’t believe how smooth it was.” His performance reflects not just quick accelerations but also an ability to adapt to evolving race conditions.
Looking Ahead: Momentum is Key
All eyes are now on the top contenders as they vie for position in this competitive series. Not only must they bring their best during qualification, but the excitement builds as they pursue championship titles, leading to what promises to be an electrifying NHRA Nationals. Keep an eye on this thrilling season as for these seasoned pros, every race can change the landscape of the championship.
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