American Pro Extreme star Ellis Vial illustrated the name “Firebird” in a big way over the weekend while competing in Qatar. During qualifying for Round 6 of the Arabian Drag Racing League season at the Qatar Racing Club, Vial’s Renegade Racing Fuels and Snap-On Dealers-backed ’68 Firebird erupted into flames in a scene reminiscent of a nitro Funny Car, burning well into the shutdown area.
Vial was able to make his way safely from the charred machine, but was transported via ambulance to the Hamad Hospital in Qatar where he was treated for smoke inhalation as well as a high carbon content in the blood from the fire. Despite the scary incident that certainly could’ve had a much worse outcome, Vial is adamant about performing the needed repairs to his race car in order to make the final race of the Arabian season before heading back stateside to kick off the ADRL season in Houston. For those keeping stats at home, Vial recorded a 3.95 at just 182 MPH on the pass. Ellis currently ranks 13th in the Pro Extreme points standings with two events remaining.