In a strategic move following the SCAG Power Equipment multi-car factory team announcement, SCAG Wilkerson Racing revealed a significant shift as Daniel Wilkerson will step into the driver’s seat for the Ford Mustang Funny Car, a position held by his father, veteran driver, and tuner, Tim Wilkerson.

Photo courtesy NHRA/National Dragster

During an illustrious 27-year career that boasted 24 wins, 20 No. 1 qualifiers, and a best points finish of second in 2005, Tim Wilkerson has decided to retire from driving, paving the way for his son Daniel. Tim, now transitioning to the role of crew chief, expressed his excitement for the change, stating, “Putting Daniel in the seat is quite simply the right move for this team and for me. I love to drive, it’s why I’ve done it so long, and I’ll miss it, but I’m more excited for Daniel to get this opportunity.”

Highlighting Daniel’s unique qualifications, Tim added, “Daniel is a great fit for the program. He’s one of the few drivers I’ve put in the seat that can tell me what happened on the run in detail. And he’ll be a great ambassador for SCAG and our partners. That’s what’s really important moving forward.”

Daniel, who previously raced part-time and served as the crew chief for Chad Green’s Funny Car, expressed his enthusiasm for fulfilling a lifelong dream: “I enjoy working on the cars, I’ve enjoyed being a crew chief, I probably could have done it forever. But the dream was always to drive for my dad.”

Photo courtesy NHRA/National Dragster

Having participated in only 14 national events since obtaining his Funny Car license, Daniel is eligible for the 2024 NHRA Rookie of the Year Award. Acknowledging this opportunity, he remarked, “It’s a strong class, and I’m excited to be a part of it. I’ll be even more excited when I say we won it.”

Daniel is set to debut in the SCAG Wilkerson Racing Ford Mustang Funny Car in a full-season campaign in the 21-race Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series.