The NHRA’s Silly Season is in full force, and things got a bit more interesting on Monday, as Alan Johnson Racing and driver Larry Dixon announced that they have agreed to a mutual separation. The veteran driver joined Al-Anabi Racing when it was formed in 2009, and finished second, first, and fourth in his three seasons driving the Al-Anabi Racing Top Fuel Dragster, collecting a total of 19 victories along the way. Dixon is a three-time NHRA Full Throttle Top Fuel champion, earning consecutive titles in 2002-03 for Don Prudhomme Racing and adding another in 2010 for Al-Anabi Racing. Per the official statement from team officials, the reasons leading to the mutual separation are private team matters and no further information will be provided, nor will interviews be granted.

“Larry has been an integral member of Al-Anabi Racing for the past three seasons,” Alan Johnson Racing team owner and Al-Anabi Racing team manager Alan Johnson said.  “He was instrumental in our successes including winning our first NHRA Full Throttle championship in 2010. He represented Al-Anabi Racing, Full Throttle and the NHRA as a great champion.

“As difficult as some decisions can be, there are times when they become necessary but can be best for everyone involved. I am proud to have raced with Larry, and I have great respect for his driving ability. I know I speak for everyone at Al-Anabi Racing when I wish him all the best.”

“I enjoyed my three seasons driving the Al-Anabi Top Fuel car,” Dixon said.  “We had a lot of wins and definitely the highlight was the NHRA Full Throttle Championship last year.  I have many fond memories of working with Alan, Jason and our crew, but I am anxious to see what the future has in store for me.  I want to thank Sheikh Khalid, Alan and everyone at AJR for my time there and wish them all the best.”

With 2011 Top Fuel Champion Del Worsham’s retirement on Nov. 21, Al-Anabi Racing now has two prized seats to fill, as the team plans to again field two cars in the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season. A number of possible drivers and scenarios have been rumored, and additional announcements are forthcoming that should bring the picture into focus.