NHRA has announced that beginning at the Mopar Mile High Nationals in Denver, Colorado, both the Top Fuel and Funny Car classes will race to 1,000 feet instead of the traditional 1,320 feet or one-quarter mile. This is an interim step that is being taken while NHRA continues to analyze and determine whether changes should be made to build upon the sport's long standing safety record, given the inherent risks and ever-present dangers associated with the sport.



This interim change was made by NHRA in collaboration with professional race teams as the investigation continues into the tragic accident that took the life of driver Scott Kalitta. NHRA believes that racing the Top Fuel and Funny Car classes to 1,000 feet will allow NHRA and the racing community time to evaluate, analyze and implement potential changes based on the safety initiatives outlined last week.

With the change, fans will still be able to enjoy the sights, sounds and thrill of NHRA nitro racing with speeds around 300 mph and quick elapsed times to 1,000 feet.

Over the years, NHRA has implemented many initiatives to enhance safety including measures to limit speeds from increasing, personal protective gear, vehicle improvements, and track enhancements such as sand traps, catch nets and concrete barriers the entire length of the drag strip.

In the wake of the tragic series of events that took Kalitta's life, the following technical issues are currently under investigation:

1) What might be done to reduce engine failures

2) Parachute mounting techniques and materials as well as identifying a parachute material that could be more fire resistant

3) Exploring whether there is a way to increase brake efficiency when cars lose downforce due to the loss of the body

4) Analyzing additional methods that might be developed at the top end of the racetrack to help arrest runaway vehicles

5) Considering whether current speeds should be further limited or reduced to potentially improve safety.