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The Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals delivered a high-energy finale on Sunday, treating fans to exciting drag racing action and standout performances. Photographers were stationed at every turn, capturing the dayโs most intense moments.
The event, held on May 18, 2025, in Joliet, Illinois, brought together top drivers from various classes, all aiming for victory at one of the National Hot Rod Associationโs premier stops. Sundayโs competition highlighted the skill and precision of NHRAโs leading teams.
Fans filled the stands as racers prepared for elimination rounds, bringing anticipation to each pass down the dragstrip. The Route 66 Raceway echoed with the sound of nitro-powered engines as Top Fuel, Funny Car, and Pro Stock teams battled in warm sunshine, adding a distinct Illinois springtime feel to the race.
Every round delivered photo-worthy action, from dramatic launches to close finishes at the stripe. Notable racers like Brittany Force, John Force, and Erica Enders vied for points and prizes, with each team fine-tuning setups between runs. For more details on the history of drag racing legends, visit the NHRA Hall of Fame.
Pit crews moved quickly, swapping tires, adjusting engines, and ensuring every car was race-ready. Several rookies also made their mark with competitive reaction times, drawing attention from fans and crew chiefs alike.
In total, the gallery showcased more than 50 images that captured the energy, teamwork, and spectacle of NHRA drag racing. Families and longtime NHRA followers enjoyed the full fan experience, taking in autograph sessions, car displays, and interactive exhibits woven throughout the facility.
The vendor midway buzzed with activity, offering everything from souvenirs to food options, while classic cars lined a special show area as part of the eventโs celebration of racing history. The event also featured a โMission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge,โ giving drivers a shot at extra recognition and points in a unique race format held alongside the main eliminations.
Sundayโs action wrapped up with winners in each pro class hoisting Wally trophies, the sportโs most coveted hardware. Teams gathered at the finish line for victory photos, marking the end of a thrilling weekend in Joliet. Learn more about the significance of the Wally trophy on the NHRA official site.
Fans already looked ahead to the next NHRA national event, checking the series schedule for upcoming opportunities to see their favorites in action. Over the course of the weekend, including Friday and Saturdayโs racing, Route 66 Raceway saw some of the closest finishes and fastest passes of the NHRA season so far. Full coverage of the previous dayโs competition can be found in the Route 66 NHRA Saturday report.
The atmosphere combined competition with the community spirit of grass-roots drag racing, keeping the Route 66 NHRA Nationals a favorite among both drivers and fans. Complete photo coverage from Sunday will be available in the NHRAโs official gallery, highlighting standout moments from this milestone event. For more on the history of Route 66 Raceway, check out the Joliet Park Districtโs page.
With the Route 66 NHRA Nationals delivering on both speed and excitement, the NHRAโs 2025 schedule continues to build momentum as the season moves forward. For additional insights into the NHRAโs racing classes, visit NHRAโs official racing classes guide.
Nicholas Rivera delivers NHRA Top Fuel and Funny Car news, including eliminator-round results and reaction-time stats. He brings track-side interviews, contender profiles, and championship-point breakdowns straight from drag-racingโs biggest national events.