Drag racing is witnessing a nostalgic return to its roots with the evolution of the Top Alcohol division, reminiscent of the former Pro Competition category. To understand this development, we look back to 1974 when NHRA introduced Pro Comp, a competitive heads-up racing class that featured various vehicles, including supercharged and alcohol-fueled dragsters and Funny Cars. In 1982, due to parity issues between Funny Cars and Dragsters, NHRA split Pro Comp into two distinct categories, leading to separate qualifications and final races.

Currently, the Top Alcohol Dragster class features two primary configurations, with an upcoming introduction of a supercharged nitro option in 2026. The Funny Car division, however, has faced challenges, including a decline in participation despite NHRA’s efforts to revitalize it, such as introducing new injected-nitro options. The drop in entries at events highlights ongoing concerns regarding the cost-benefit ratio of racing within the class.

Looking ahead, 2026 could be pivotal for Top Alcohol Funny Cars with the debut of the Del Worsham supercharged-nitro combination. There are ongoing developments, including new cars being constructed, which may reinvigorate the division. Ultimately, if the 2026 changes succeed, NHRA might reconsider the need for separation within the classes, potentially leading to a unified Pro Comp category once again, albeit with fewer Funny Cars than in the past.



Source: competitionplus.com