Jason Dietsch Dominates Chicago’s Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown

Jason Dietsch delivered a memorable performance at the Chicago Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown National Event, taking home victories in both the rain-delayed Gatornationals and the 25th Route 66 NHRA Nationals within a single weekend. He entered the event searching for his first Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown national event win, facing a competitive field of 20 drivers.

The victories not only marked his first national event titles but also put Dietsch in the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown points lead. The racing action began with Dietsch qualifying third, a testament to his preparation and skill in the NHRA’s Factory Stock Showdown class.

He advanced through the first round by defeating Josh Hart, who was also competing in Top Fuel at the same event. In the quarterfinals, Dietsch faced David Janac and posted a winning run of 7.730 seconds, edging out Janac’s 7.770-second pass.

One of the most anticipated matchups followed in the semifinals, where Dietsch ran against his own son, Taylor. Both drivers piloted Ford Mustangs, and despite Taylor’s strong performance, Jason managed to win with a 7.737 to 7.744-second margin.

Dietsch’s streak of consistent starts and fast times continued into the final round. He faced off with No. 1 qualifier Lee Hartman, who was making his second consecutive Route 66 Nationals final-round appearance.

Dietsch gained the starting line advantage, running a 7.725-second quarter mile at 177.93 mph. Hartman’s pass of 7.716 seconds was slightly quicker, but Dietsch took the win on a hole shot, turning on the victory light by crossing the finish first.

Throughout the weekend, Dietsch emphasized the significance of both wins, especially the special 25th-anniversary silver Wally trophy. He added that having to race his son made the experience even more unique, calling the semifinal matchup a win for their whole team regardless of the outcome.

Dietsch noted that much of the field is made up of his customers and friends, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie off the track, but strong competition once on it. The Factory Stock Showdown also featured other dramatic moments, including Alex Anderson collecting the $1,000 Flexjet bounty in round one when Jonathan Allegrucci’s Mustang Cobra Jet broke at launch.

Anderson’s win marked his first round victory of the 2025 season, setting the stage for a weekend with plenty of upsets and close races. The Series moves next to the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, scheduled for June 6-8 in Bristol, Tennessee, a track known for its challenging Bristol Dragway layout.

Dietsch leaves Chicago with momentum and the points lead, aiming to continue his impressive performance through the rest of the season. The Route 66 event will be remembered for its high level of competition and memorable results as drivers now shift their focus to the next stop on the calendar.