Doug Foley is making a major move to turn his luck around for the 2026 drag racing season. After a year that beat the team down, they are bringing in veteran nitro crew chief Ron Douglas to serve as a consultant. It is a clear signal that Foley Lewis Racing is serious about fixing their program before the first engine fires at the NHRA Gatornationals. The goal is to stop struggling and start winning rounds again.
The decision comes after a 2025 season that Foley describes as a tough one. The team dealt with the tragic loss of co-owner Tim Lewis early on and suffered a costly crash to close out the year at the IHRA season finale. Foley was honest about his own performance, too. He admitted he did not drive his best and that missed opportunities hurt them. Bringing Douglas into the fold helps solve those problems. He will work alongside longtime crew chief Doug Kuch to sharpen the tune-up. Foley specifically wanted a consultant who does more than just stare at a computer screen. He wanted someone who puts their hands on the parts to see things others might miss. Douglas brings championship experience from both Top Fuel and Funny Car, which should help the team find consistency.
The strategy for this year is simple but smart. The team is prioritizing quality runs over attending a high quantity of races. Foley says they will not hesitate to skip an event if they need to go for testing instead. They plan to split their time between NHRA national events and the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series. It is officially a rebuilding year focused on getting the car right rather than chasing points.
Support is strong as they head to Gainesville. Authority Garage Supply Inc. returns as the primary sponsor, with others like United Garage Door Company, LiftMaster, C.H.I. Overhead Doors, Coble Enterprises, The BAMR Company, and Red Line Oil on board. With a renewed focus and the added knowledge of Ron Douglas in the pits, the team is hopeful that 2026 will be the fresh start they desperately need.
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