Del Worsham Honored as 2025 Thunder Valley Legend at Bristol Dragway

Del Worsham, one of drag racing’s most accomplished drivers and crew chiefs, has been named the 2025 Legend of Thunder Valley at Bristol Dragway. He will be honored with his induction during the pre-race ceremonies at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, set for June 6-8.

Worsham, a two-time NHRA world champion, joins racing icons such as Don Prudhomme, Shirley Muldowney, John Force, and Tony Schumacher in being celebrated. He becomes the 22nd member of Bristol Dragway’s Hall of Fame, with a permanent plaque and signage soon to be revealed at the track.

Worsham’s record in professional drag racing has set him apart in NHRA history. He is one of just three drivers to win championships in both Top Fuel and Funny Car, claiming the Top Fuel world title in 2011 and the Funny Car championship in 2015.

His résumé includes 33 national event wins—25 in Funny Car and eight in Top Fuel. Worsham’s early rise in the sport featured a 1992 victory at Bristol, which played a key role in securing his IHRA crown that year.

Bristol Dragway has been a standout venue for Worsham throughout his career. At the Tennessee track, he has captured three event victories.

His name can be found in the record books for achievements like low elapsed time in 2009 and 2014, several top speed awards, and No. 1 qualifier awards in both 2013 and 2014. Both qualifying runs also set new official track records at the time.

Worsham’s skills extend beyond his driving. As a crew chief, he led Alexis DeJoria to a win at Bristol in 2021 and supported her to a runner-up finish in 2012, as well as a No. 1 qualifying spot that same year.

He was also a key part of Shawn Langdon’s strong Funny Car qualifying performance in 2019 at Bristol, reflecting his technical expertise and leadership with top teams.

Recognizing Worsham’s wide-ranging impact, Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway President Jerry Caldwell expressed excitement for the induction. Caldwell noted, “Del is one of those rare individuals who can do it all in the drag racing arena.”

This honor highlights Worsham’s race-day triumphs, achievements as a crew chief, and record-setting performances at Thunder Valley and across NHRA competition.

Fans attending the Thunder Valley Nationals will have the chance to meet Worsham during autograph sessions, including the Saturday night Fan Fest.

He will also be in action during the event, serving as team owner and crew chief for Julie Nataas, the reigning Top Alcohol Dragster world champion who is now making her Nitro Funny Car debut. Racing fans will get to see a legend’s legacy celebrated and also witness his continued role in the sport’s future. For more on racing events and updates, see this Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals preview.