Dean Dubbin Out for 2025 NHRA Lucas Oil Series; Kirk Wolf to Race at Brainerd

Dean Dubbin, who drives the A/Fuel Dragster for Dubbin Motorsports, has been ruled out for the rest of the 2025 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series after suffering a left shoulder injury. He tore his rotator cuff and bicep on his left side, causing him to miss both the regional and national events this summer at Brainerd International Raceway.

Sponsored by DMP Awnings and KENTEX Roofing, the Minnesota-based team now faces a challenging situation as their owner and driver steps away from action. This comes just one year after Dubbin’s right shoulder surgery.

Dubbin has raced for many years, but his time on track has always felt special at his home event in Brainerd. He shared his disappointment, stating he was finally getting back to full strength on his right side before injuring his left.

Dubbin noted that these local races are especially important to him because friends and family come out to support, making the loss even harder. Missing a chance to compete in front of his local fans will be a tough change for the entire Dubbin Motorsports crew.

Taking over driving duties at both Brainerd events will be Kirk Wolf. Wolf is the main driver for the team out of Odessa, Texas.

While he has been present at Brainerd in past years, he has yet to get behind the wheel at this track. Wolf understands the value these races hold for Dubbin and the team.

He said he feels for Dean and hopes he can bring home a trophy, known as a “Wally,” to help lift the spirits of his teammate.

Dubbin Motorsports, located in Little Falls, Minnesota, has built a strong reputation at Brainerd. The team has made several deep runs at this track, including reaching the final round at the Lucas Oil Nationals in 2018, where they matched up against Jackie Fricke, a top competitor in the A/Fuel class.

With Wolf stepping in, the team plans to keep their impressive record on home turf intact despite the setback.

While Dubbin will not compete at the Brainerd races, the team remains active and focused on upcoming events in Norwalk and Seattle. The loss of a home track appearance is disappointing for both Dubbin and his supporters, but the squad plans to compete with the same level of determination.

This story was published on June 9, 2025.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Kirk Wolf as he represents Dubbin Motorsports at Brainerd. The team hopes to capture another late-round finish and keep their longstanding presence alive at this important Minnesota event.

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.