Cruz Pedregon Aims for Breakthrough at Gerber Collision Route 66 NHRA Nationals

Cruz Pedregon is preparing for the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals Presented by PEAK at Route 66 Raceway, aiming to secure his first win of the 2025 Funny Car season. Pedregon, a two-time NHRA Funny Car world champion, faced a setback last month after an on-track explosion and fire at the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals in Charlotte.

His Snap-on Dodge Hellcat Funny Car team worked quickly, rebuilding the car and identifying a problem with their clutch system that had hindered performance during eliminations. The crew focused on qualifying reliability, posting three solid runs out of four in recent events.

However, they have struggled on race day when increasing track temperatures led to tire spin and inconsistent passes. After analyzing data, the team made targeted adjustments to the clutch application that Pedregon believes will help stabilize the car’s runs during critical elimination rounds.

These changes are being put to the test at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park before the next event. The Route 66 Nationals carry added importance for Pedregon and his team this year.

The Joliet track is near Snap-on’s Wisconsin headquarters and supports a 26-year legacy of NHRA racing in the area. Pedregon said performing well at this venue is a point of pride for both him and the team, especially with many Snap-on employees and supporters often in attendance.

This weekend, Pedregon’s Funny Car will carry a unique tribute to Mike Chraponski, a Snap-on Nitro Franchisee from the Chicago area. Chraponski is known for his career change from the financial sector to running a Snap-on van for twenty years, serving local mechanics and auto shops.

Pedregon recently visited several of Chraponski’s clients ahead of the race to share insights on racing and tools, bringing the team closer to the brand’s community. The lead-up to the nationals has been marked by several technical updates from across the racing world.

UPR Products debuted a new Stage 2 Pro-Street Suspension Package for the Mustang GT500, while Racetech USA is rolling out an NHRA contingency program for the upcoming 2025 American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals. The broader drag racing field remains competitive, as Ron Capps, Alexis DeJoria, and defending champion Antron Brown all seek wins at Route 66 Raceway.

Pedregon arrives at Joliet hoping the changes made over the past month result in greater consistency and, ultimately, a breakthrough win. The action at Route 66 Raceway takes place this weekend, continuing the 2025 NHRA season and signaling a fresh opportunity for the veteran driver and his Snap-on team to make an impact. Recent coverage also highlights other competitors making moves this season, including Chris King’s Funny Car efforts.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.