J.R. Todd Targets Stronger Later Rounds as Series Moves West

Highlights

J.R. Todd and DHL team aim for consistent late-round finishes
Next race: NHRA Northwest Nationals in Seattle, July 18-20
Todd won New Hampshire race and reached Richmond semifinals
Currently sixth in standings with four regular-season races left
Focus on steady performance to improve playoff positioning
Seattle event seen as pivotal for season momentum

J.R. Todd and the DHL GR Supra team are targeting greater consistency in the final rounds as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to Seattle for the Northwest Nationals from July 18 to 20. Their focus is on deep race runs, which remain a key metric of team performance and playoff readiness as the regular season enters a critical phase.

The 2025 campaign has represented a period of rebuilding for Todd’s operation. Yet, a win in New Hampshire during early June has marked a meaningful high point. Since then, the team’s continued progress has been evident, most notably with a semifinal appearance near Richmond, Virginia, just two weeks later. These results underline their ability to meet short-term goals in a tightly competitive field.

J.R. Todd's DHL GR Supra at the dragstrip — Image Credit: Drag Illustrated

The team’s learning curve has involved building experience from every race weekend. According to Todd, making more runs is central to their process. Despite recent setbacks—such as the difficulties faced in Norwalk—the group remains focused and intent on forward progress as the schedule intensifies.

“Racing in later rounds gives you real momentum,” Todd has emphasized, reflecting the team’s commitment to sustained progress.

Currently occupying sixth in the points standings, Todd is chasing an 86-point deficit to fifth and a 116-point gap to third. With only four regular-season events remaining, including a demanding back-to-back on the West Coast, every opportunity to advance is magnified. The drive for consistency becomes even more vital as the margin for error closes in the final stretch.

Securing outright race wins remains a target, but Todd also values repeat semifinal and final round appearances to keep playoff prospects alive. In drag racing’s tight points environment, a single swing—such as early eliminations by direct rivals—can dramatically alter the championship outlook.

The upcoming sequence, starting at Seattle and followed by Sonoma, will play a decisive role in shaping postseason potential. Strategic awareness is pivotal, particularly given the playoff points on offer at the season finale in Indianapolis, where outcomes carry additional weight.

J.R. Todd preparing for qualifying run with DHL crew — Image Credit: Team Kalitta

As the season draws closer to the Countdown to the Championship NHRA Playoffs, pressure intensifies across the grid. Todd notes that every run now has amplified significance, with drivers and teams fighting to secure playoff spots during the Western states swing.

Todd explains, “Consistency in the late races is what gives us real playoff leverage.”

The team’s approach remains grounded: maintain calm, adapt quickly, and extract performance run by run. Their recent uplift owes much to this mindset, which has helped overcome a slow season start. With four remaining races, Todd’s group—supported by Pontiac and DHL—must keep building momentum to maximize their position ahead of the playoffs.

Seattle’s event serves as a pivotal juncture, and the team is determined to capitalize on lessons learned over the past months. Securing top finishes now is essential for reinforcing their standing and gaining a psychological edge.

The upcoming double-header, closing at Sonoma, will decide much of the remaining momentum. For Todd and the DHL squad, this Western stint could ultimately define their championship narrative.

With strong finishes in Seattle and Sonoma, Todd could propel himself into true championship contention as the playoffs approach.