Shawn Langdon Triumphs Again at Firebird Motorsports Park
Shawn Langdon secured a back-to-back victory at Firebird Motorsports Park, outpacing his Kalitta Motorsports teammate Doug Kalitta in the final showdown of the NHRA Arizona Nationals. The event saw record-breaking attendance, with fans filling the stands to witness Langdon’s remarkable performance. His dragster clocked an impressive 3.724 seconds at 330.39 mph, eclipsing Kalitta’s 3.770 at 325.53 mph.
This victory marks Langdon’s second consecutive final round appearance to start the 2025 season. He skillfully defeated Scott Palmer, Justin Ashley, and Brittany Force earlier in the day, securing his 20th career win and his first of the season. Langdon has now reached the final round in Phoenix for three straight years, enhancing his record with Saturday’s win in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge.
Langdon remarked, “Facing Alan Johnson and Doug in the final, we knew the challenge. Their semi-final run was impressive, and we had to push our limits. Brian Husen, our crew chief, has transformed this team into a force to be reckoned with.”
Paul Lee Clinches First Funny Car Victory
Paul Lee made history by becoming the 96th different Funny Car winner in NHRA history. His McLeod/FTI Performance Dodge Charger SRT defeated reigning champion Austin Prock with a 4.030-second run at 313.22 mph. Lee’s journey to victory was remarkable, overcoming strong competitors like Chad Green, Blake Alexander, and Bob Tasca before the final round.
“Winning a nitro Funny Car race has been my dream since I was 13,” Lee shared. “It’s the culmination of years of effort, not just an overnight success. Today was special, remembering Eric Medlin and feeling his presence guiding us.”
Greg Anderson Wins Wild Pro Stock Final
In a dramatic Pro Stock finale, Greg Anderson claimed his second consecutive win in Phoenix. Dallas Glenn’s red-light start handed Anderson the victory, despite his car experiencing issues. This win added to Anderson’s impressive record, marking his 107th career victory and fourth at Firebird Motorsports Park.
Reflecting on the unexpected victory, Anderson said, “I’m still puzzled how I won. It was a chaotic final, but a win is a win. I was left wondering why Dallas didn’t pass me, but sometimes fortune favors you in unexpected ways.”
The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues from March 27-30 with the 65th annual Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip. Fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling races and standout performances.
